Local government officials in Bacolod City are joining hands with fellow leaders from the neighboring provinces in a bid to make Visayas the center of development in the country.
“It’s about time that we share a common goal and become one in making Visayas the center of our country,” Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya said during the closing of the 35th Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC) hosted by Bacolod yesterday.
On Thursday afternoon, May 14, a session titled “The Roadmap to Regional Development of the Visayas Amidst the Global Crisis” featured as panelists Governors Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria of Negros Oriental, Jose Enrique Miraflores of Aklan, Pamela Baricuatro of Cebu, and Carlos Jericho Petilla of Leyte.
Discussions explored the economic trajectory of the Visayas in the context of the ongoing national energy emergency as the governors highlighted the drivers of growth, opportunity for expansion and strategies for recalibration to ensure inclusive and sustainable development.
“It was a very powerful and meaningful picture. All of us were making the sign of one. It’s a challenge for all of us. It’s about time that of all us should have a common goal. We can only do that if we become one – One Visayas,” Gasataya said.
As leaders of the host city and province, Gasataya and Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson highlighted creating a safe and supportive environment for businesses and inspiring stronger partnerships.
In his presentation of “Bacolod in Action: Sustainable, Resilient and Open for Business,” the mayor stressed that his administration continues to uphold policies designed to give confidence to investors and ensure that businesses can operate securely and grow in the city.
“When you choose to invest, you are committing billions of pesos. For us in Bacolod, we assure you that we will protect whatever you invest in your business,” he added.
Gasataya said that Bacolod, being a resilient, sustainable and business-ready destination, has prime areas open for development, including the city-owned 75-hectare property and the valuable five-hectare lot at the old airport along Araneta Street.
In his message, Lacson said the Visayas has always been a dynamic and thriving region — rich in resources, culture, talent and enterprise.
“Our islands continue to demonstrate that progress is strongest when communities, businesses and institutions move with shared purpose. In Negros Occidental, we welcome the opportunity to strengthen partnerships, exchange ideas, and open new avenues and approaches for growth and innovation,” he added.
Convened by the local chambers of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry across the Visayas, the 35th VABC is themed “Future Forward: Shaping Sustainable and Resilient Communities and Smarter Business,” which explored how technology and sustainability can merge to create a stronger, more adaptable Visayas. (PNA)