By Xander Ledesma
Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez proudly highlighted Bacolod’s achievement as the Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit (LGU) in the country, emphasizing that it reflects the city’s continued drive for growth, innovation, and opportunity.
The city topped a select group of competitive cities—Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, and Mandaue—at the 2024 Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Awards held on October 23, at the Marriott Hotel in Pasay City.
Mayor Benitez, who received the award, noted that Bacolod’s recognition was based on four key areas: promoting sustainable local economic development, ease of doing business, investment promotion efforts, and enhancing sectoral competitiveness.
“This is a victory for all Bacolodnons as we continue to drive growth, innovation, and opportunities in our city,” Benitez remarked, underscoring the city’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment.
Bacolod’s standing as a growing hub for business and economic activity in the Visayas region continues to be reinforced with such achievements. Councilor Jude Thaddeus Sayson added that the city’s latest recognition aligns with its earlier accolade from the Department of Finance for best financial performance among LGUs, highlighting the city’s excellence in revenue collection and the implementation of innovative programs like online payments and quick-response codes.
These advancements reflect Bacolod’s strategic direction in creating a vibrant and competitive local economy that benefits both businesses and its residents.