Business Leadership in Local Governance
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), under the leadership of President Edward Du, continues to play a pivotal role in promoting strong public-private collaboration for sustainable economic growth. During the recent Civil Society Organization (CSO) Selection of Representatives to the Local Special Bodies (LSBs), NOCCI reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the business sector remains a key stakeholder in the province’s development planning and decision-making processes.
Held at the GSP Building in Dumaguete City, the event gathered leaders from both government and civil society, including Provincial Attorney Myles Bejar, Board Member Hon. Shaquille T. Teves, and Provincial Planning and Development Officer Ingo Ash Julian Mercado. Their collective presence underscored the shared vision of fostering economic inclusivity and aligning business priorities with local governance through active LSBs engagement.
The Role of NOCCI in the LSBs Selection
Representation That Matters
As an influential business organization, NOCCI’s participation in the LSBs selection process demonstrates its proactive stance in shaping local policy directions. Through this involvement, NOCCI ensures that the voice of the private sector is represented in provincial bodies where critical decisions about economic development, investment promotion, and resource allocation are made.
Integrating Business Interests in Governance
By working hand-in-hand with the local government and fellow civil society groups, NOCCI helps integrate private sector insights into programs that drive innovation, sustainability, and growth. This LSBs collaboration promotes synergy between business priorities and social objectives, resulting in inclusive policies that benefit both enterprises and communities.
Why the LSBs Selection Is Important for Negros Oriental
A Platform for Collaborative Development
The Local Special Bodies (LSBs) serve as advisory and decision-making platforms that enable multi-sector representation in local governance. Through these bodies, private sector organizations, non-government entities, and government offices align on goals and strategies for the province’s progress.
NOCCI’s engagement ensures that development plans and policies are grounded in practical, business-oriented perspectives. This participation helps address key issues such as job creation, entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and investment attraction—all vital to Negros Oriental’s economic competitiveness.
Strengthening Accountability and Transparency
Another key benefit of NOCCI’s active role in the LSBs is the promotion of transparency and accountability in governance. By sitting at the same table as public officials, NOCCI helps monitor program implementation and ensures that economic and social initiatives are effectively executed. The LSBs provide a venue where collaboration replaces competition, fostering trust between government and business leaders.
Advancing Economic Growth Through Public-Private Synergy
Building Confidence for Investors
NOCCI’s visible involvement in governance through LSBs enhances investor confidence. It signals that Negros Oriental’s development agenda is guided by balanced perspectives—combining policy support with practical business insights. This alignment makes the province more attractive to both local and foreign investors seeking a transparent and stable business environment.
Promoting Sustainable Economic Initiatives
The collaboration within the LSBs framework also facilitates the creation of programs that prioritize sustainability. With NOCCI advocating for responsible business practices, the province can better manage resources, promote green industries, and balance development with environmental preservation. The result is a long-term strategy that benefits both current and future generations.
NOCCI’s Broader Mission Beyond the LSBs
While the LSBs serve as a key avenue for policy influence, NOCCI’s mission extends further. The organization continues to spearhead initiatives that strengthen small and medium enterprises (SMEs), enhance local entrepreneurship, and support digital adaptation across industries. Its involvement in LSBs complements these efforts by ensuring that policy frameworks are supportive of innovation and enterprise growth.
Moreover, NOCCI’s collaboration with government partners like the Provincial Planning and Development Office helps align economic strategies with the province’s long-term vision. By engaging consistently in the LSBs, NOCCI not only contributes to immediate decision-making but also to sustainable, forward-thinking development.
Regional and National Impact of LSBs Engagement
NOCCI’s participation in the LSBs sets a benchmark for other chambers of commerce and private sector groups nationwide. It exemplifies how business organizations can go beyond advocacy and become active partners in governance. Through this model of collaboration, provinces across the Philippines can replicate Negros Oriental’s success in harmonizing economic and social goals.
Furthermore, NOCCI’s involvement aligns with national objectives under the Philippine Development Plan, which emphasizes inclusive growth and stronger coordination among government, civil society, and private institutions. The LSBs act as a bridge connecting these entities toward common development priorities.
A Stronger Future Through Partnership
The active participation of the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the CSO Selection of Representatives to the Local Special Bodies marks another step forward in strengthening public-private collaboration in the province. Through continued engagement in the LSBs, NOCCI reinforces the vital role of the business sector in shaping inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economic growth.
By bringing the voice of commerce into governance, NOCCI ensures that Negros Oriental’s progress is both strategic and equitable—driven by shared responsibility and collective vision.

