The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) business delegation led by President Edward Du, participated in the historic first Siquijor-Negros Island Region (NIR) Business Week. This milestone event formed part of the National Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Week celebration. Under the leadership of MBCCI President Juliana Carbon, the business week aimed to highlight opportunities for MSME growth, regional investment, and collaborative development in the newly-created NIR.

President Du delivered an inspirational message, where he highlighted the importance of unified efforts among chambers to empower MSMEs, drive innovation, and support inclusive growth. He praised MBCCI’s leadership and vision in organizing the event, which brought together key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. NOCCI’s participation underscored its ongoing commitment to regional economic development and strategic partnerships across the Negros Island Region.

NOCCI Strengthens Regional Ties at the First Siquijor-NIR Business Week

Introduction: A Historic Milestone for the Negros Island Region

The first-ever Siquijor-Negros Island Region (NIR) Business Week marked a milestone in regional economic collaboration. Led by the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) under the leadership of President Juliana Carbon, the event aligned with the National Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Week celebration.

The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), headed by President Edward Du, joined this historic gathering with a strong delegation. Their participation underscored NOCCI’s unwavering commitment to advancing regional development, strengthening partnerships, and empowering MSMEs. Through initiatives like the Business Week, chambers are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and competitive NIR. The event created a BizLink among stakeholders, fostering collaboration across island provinces.

Empowering MSMEs Through Unified Efforts

At the core of the celebration was the mission to support micro, small, and medium enterprises. President Edward Du, in his inspirational message, emphasized that MSMEs are not only the backbone of the local economy but also key drivers of innovation and inclusive growth.

He urged chambers across the NIR to strengthen their unity, creating platforms that nurture collaboration, knowledge sharing, and investment opportunities. This collaborative BizLink allows MSMEs to overcome challenges such as limited capital, market access, and digital readiness. With shared resources and aligned efforts, enterprises can position themselves for growth in both domestic and regional markets.

Leadership and Vision: MBCCI’s Role in the Business Week

The event was spearheaded by MBCCI President Juliana Carbon, whose leadership played a central role in bringing together business leaders, government officials, and entrepreneurs. Her vision reflected the growing recognition that the newly created NIR requires strong partnerships to succeed.

By organizing the first Siquijor-NIR Business Week, MBCCI demonstrated how chambers can serve as bridges—linking industries, communities, and policymakers. This initiative created a strategic BizLink that will continue to shape how the region approaches investment and development opportunities.

Public and Private Sector Collaboration

One of the most impactful aspects of the Business Week was the synergy between public and private stakeholders. Representatives from government agencies highlighted policy directions, support programs, and infrastructure priorities to promote business competitiveness.

Meanwhile, chambers like NOCCI and MBCCI contributed grassroots perspectives on what MSMEs need to thrive. Together, these insights reinforced the importance of aligning local initiatives with national economic goals. The BizLink between both sectors ensures that regional strategies are practical, inclusive, and sustainable.

Opportunities for Investment and Growth

The Business Week also spotlighted the emerging opportunities that the NIR can offer investors. With its diverse resources, growing workforce, and expanding infrastructure, the region holds great potential for industries such as tourism, agriculture, technology, and renewable energy.

Sessions focused on encouraging partnerships that promote local entrepreneurship while inviting outside investments. By positioning the region as a dynamic hub for innovation and collaboration, the BizLink created through this event can open doors to long-term growth.

NOCCI’s Commitment to Regional Economic Development

NOCCI’s active participation reaffirmed its dedication to building a stronger economic foundation for the Negros Oriental and the wider island region. President Du highlighted that regional progress requires collective responsibility, with chambers playing a key role in creating opportunities and solving shared challenges.

By supporting initiatives like the Siquijor-NIR Business Week, NOCCI strengthens its BizLink with other chambers and contributes to building a cohesive regional ecosystem where enterprises, both large and small, can prosper.

Driving Innovation and Inclusive Growth

A recurring theme throughout the Business Week was the importance of innovation as a driver of inclusive growth. MSMEs must not only adapt to digital transformation but also innovate in products, services, and operations to remain competitive.

Chambers and government agencies pledged to provide more training, funding access, and mentorship opportunities to ensure that enterprises are prepared for this transition. This collective effort forms part of the BizLink strategy—ensuring that innovation benefits communities across urban centers and rural areas alike.

The Road Ahead: Strengthening the NIR’s Business Landscape

As the first Siquijor-NIR Business Week concluded, it was clear that this event is only the beginning of a longer journey. The collaboration among chambers, government agencies, and private enterprises has set the tone for future initiatives that will continue to shape the NIR’s development agenda.

The key to success lies in sustaining this BizLink and expanding it further—so that every MSME, regardless of size or sector, has access to the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. With continued cooperation, the Negros Island Region can establish itself as a model for inclusive, sustainable, and competitive growth in the Philippines.

Building the Future Together

The historic first Siquijor-NIR Business Week marked a significant step in uniting chambers, empowering MSMEs, and creating pathways for regional development. NOCCI’s participation highlighted its ongoing role as a champion for business and innovation, working hand-in-hand with other chambers and partners.

Through initiatives like this, the BizLink across the Negros Island Region grows stronger, ensuring that economic progress is not just a vision but a shared reality. By building on this momentum, the region is poised to become a hub of opportunity, resilience, and inclusive prosperity.