The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) officers, spearheaded by President Edward Du, had a luncheon meeting with the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) officers led by its Chairman, Roberto L Montelibano, at the Modern Shang in Ayala, Bacolod City.
Both chambers are now under the newly-institutionalized Negros Island Region (NIR), thus the main agendum of the said meeting was to discuss the ongoing developments of the new region. After the said meeting, both chambers’ officers headed to Iloilo City for the 33rd Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC).
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) and the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) recently held a strategic luncheon meeting at Modern Shang in Ayala, Bacolod City. Spearheaded by NOCCI President Edward Du and MBCCI Chairman Roberto L Montelibano, the meeting brought together key leaders from both chambers to discuss the ongoing developments of the newly-institutionalized Negros Island Region (NIR). This gathering marked a significant step in strengthening the collaboration between the two influential business organizations as they navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by the NIR.
The luncheon meeting, held in the backdrop of Bacolod’s vibrant business district, served as a platform for the officers of NOCCI and MBCCI to align their goals and strategies concerning the NIR. The establishment of the NIR, which encompasses the provinces of Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, and Siquijor, represents a transformative change in the region’s governance and economic landscape. With both chambers now operating under the jurisdiction of the NIR, the meeting focused on fostering unity and cooperation to ensure that the region’s development is both inclusive and sustainable.
President Edward Du of NOCCI emphasized the importance of collaboration between the two chambers, highlighting that the success of the NIR hinges on the ability of business leaders from both sides of the island to work together. He noted that the luncheon meeting was a critical opportunity to discuss the roles that NOCCI and MBCCI would play in shaping the future of the region. Du stressed the need for a coordinated approach to economic planning and development, one that leverages the strengths of each province while addressing shared challenges.
Chairman Roberto L Montelibano of MBCCI echoed Du’s sentiments, underscoring the significance of the NIR as a unified economic zone. He pointed out that the institutionalization of the NIR offers unprecedented opportunities for both Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental to collaborate on initiatives that will drive economic growth, attract investment, and improve the quality of life for residents. Montelibano also highlighted the importance of engaging with stakeholders across the region, including local government units, businesses, and civil society, to ensure that the NIR’s development is reflective of the needs and aspirations of its people.
During the meeting, the officers from NOCCI and MBCCI discussed several key areas of collaboration, including infrastructure development, investment promotion, and regional policy advocacy. They recognized the critical role that infrastructure plays in driving economic growth and agreed on the need to prioritize projects that will enhance connectivity between the provinces. Improved infrastructure is seen as a cornerstone for attracting investment and facilitating the movement of goods and services across the region.
Investment promotion was another focal point of the discussion, with both chambers exploring ways to market the NIR as a prime destination for both local and international investors. The officers discussed strategies for showcasing the region’s strengths, such as its rich natural resources, strategic location, and skilled workforce. They also highlighted the importance of creating a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship.
Regional policy advocacy was identified as a key area where NOCCI and MBCCI can collaborate to influence the broader policy environment in favor of the NIR’s development goals. The officers discussed the need to engage with national government agencies and legislators to ensure that the NIR receives the necessary support and resources to achieve its full potential. They also emphasized the importance of advocating for policies that promote sustainable development, environmental protection, and social equity within the region.
Following the luncheon meeting, the officers of both chambers traveled together to Iloilo City to attend the 33rd Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC). Their joint participation in the conference underscored the strong partnership between NOCCI and MBCCI and their shared commitment to advancing the interests of the Negros Island Region. The VABC provided an additional platform for the officers to network with other business leaders from across the Visayas and to further discuss strategies for the region’s development.
The meeting between NOCCI and MBCCI leaders was more than just a routine gathering; it was a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to build a cohesive and prosperous Negros Island Region. As both chambers continue to work closely together, their collaboration is expected to yield significant benefits for the region’s economy and its people. The strategic discussions held during the luncheon meeting in Bacolod, followed by their participation in the VABC, demonstrate the proactive approach that NOCCI and MBCCI are taking to ensure that the NIR becomes a model of regional development in the Philippines.
NOCCI and MBCCI leaders has set the stage for continued collaboration and strategic planning in the Negros Island Region. With a shared vision for the future and a commitment to working together, these two chambers are poised to play a central role in shaping the economic trajectory of the NIR, ensuring that it becomes a thriving and dynamic region that benefits all its stakeholders.
