Bacolod City is positioning itself to become a premier sustainable urban hub in the Visayas through a strategic roadmap aligned with global standards.
The goal was highlighted in the investment framework presented by the city’s Department of Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions (DLEDIP) during the European Union (EU) – City of Bacolod Economic Alliance Forum held at the City Mayor’s Office.
Mayor Greg Gasataya underscored the city’s commitment to sustainability through initiatives such as solar energy projects in government facilities, energy-efficiency programs, and support for cleaner transportation.
“We are committed to making this partnership count. We want to ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy the Bacolod we know today. We cannot do this alone, but together, we are stronger,” he added.
In a report on Wednesday, June 10, the DLEDIP said, “The strategic alliance aims to catalyze local green growth, turn recovery and waste into economic opportunities, and establish Bacolod as a premier sustainable urban hub in the Negros Island Region and the Visayas.”
It added that “the landmark forum bridges global vision with local dynamism to shape a resilient, sustainable, and highly collaborative economic future for Bacolod.”
“With rapid urbanization posing serious resource challenges globally, Bacolod is acting fast, leveraging the European Union’s pioneering models in circular economy innovations,” it said.
In a presentation titled “Bacolod 2030: Investing in a Circular, Resilient and Inclusive Future,” DLEDIP head and city investment officer Mae Llamas outlined concrete blueprints of the multilateral investment proposal, focusing on shovel-ready infrastructure, which showcases actionable, ready-to-implement green infrastructure projects, as well as localized circular economy hubs with pathways designed for optimal resource recovery.
She also discussed the robust public-private frameworks specifically tailored to de-risk foreign sustainable investments in Bacolod.
“By aligning our local economic strategies with global standards, Bacolod is primed for sustainable innovation and major green partnerships,” Llamas said.
Tsvetomir Svilenov, program manager of the EU-Philippines Green Economy Partnership, lauded Bacolod’s sustainability agenda, saying that the city is a promising partner for advancing green economy initiatives.
“It is a real privilege to visit you because our work is all about partnership and sustainability. The biggest value of our partnership is the opportunity to work at the local level,” he added. (PNA)