Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) President Edward Du attended the Blessing, Inauguration and Opening of the First Dauin Jetty Port in Negros Oriental under Negros Island Region (NIR). Mr. Edward Du also thanked Senator Mark Villar, Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, DOT-7 RD Judy Gabato, NORDA President Glenn Carballo and BASHACO Chairman Ruel Perez for supporting NOCCI’s SAVE Mt. Talinis advocacy program thru Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project.
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) marked another milestone in the province’s development with the inauguration of the First Dauin Jetty Port under the Negros Island Region (NIR). NOCCI President Edward Du graced the event, alongside prominent figures such as Senator Mark Villar, Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, Department of Tourism (DOT-7) Regional Director Judy Gabato, Negros Oriental Dive Association (NORDA) President Glenn Carballo, and BASHACO Chairman Ruel Perez.
The inauguration of the Dauin Jetty Port signals a new chapter for Negros Oriental’s maritime and tourism industries, promising enhanced connectivity, economic opportunities, and sustainable development.
Boosting Connectivity and Economic Growth
The establishment of the Dauin Jetty Port is a strategic move to improve the transportation infrastructure of Negros Oriental. Located in the municipality of Dauin, known for its world-class dive sites and eco-tourism attractions, the port is expected to become a critical hub for travelers and goods.
President Edward Du highlighted the importance of this project in his speech:
“This jetty port is not just a structure; it’s a gateway to progress. It will bridge our communities, attract more tourists, and stimulate local businesses, especially in the tourism and agriculture sectors.”
The port is also set to enhance inter-island connectivity within the NIR, supporting regional integration and collaboration.
NOCCI’s SAVE Mt. Talinis Advocacy
In addition to celebrating the inauguration, NOCCI used the platform to promote its SAVE Mt. Talinis advocacy program, an initiative aimed at preserving the biodiversity and ecological balance of Mt. Talinis. A critical component of this program is the Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project, which combines environmental conservation with economic empowerment.
The project encourages sustainable cacao farming in the Mt. Talinis area, providing local farmers with an alternative livelihood while supporting reforestation efforts. President Du expressed his gratitude to the stakeholders who have supported the program:
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Senator Mark Villar, Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, DOT-7 RD Judy Gabato, NORDA President Glenn Carballo, and BASHACO Chairman Ruel Perez for their unwavering support of the Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project. Together, we are proving that economic growth and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand.”
Collaboration Across Sectors
The event highlighted the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors. Senator Mark Villar commended NOCCI’s proactive initiatives and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting projects that promote sustainable development.
Governor Chaco Sagarbarria emphasized the jetty port’s role in advancing the province’s infrastructure and boosting its competitiveness as a tourism destination. He also recognized NOCCI’s efforts in advocating for projects like the Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project, which align with the province’s long-term goals.
“The Dauin Jetty Port and NOCCI’s Mt. Talinis advocacy are both exemplary models of what we can achieve when stakeholders unite toward a common goal,” Governor Sagarbarria stated.
Tourism and Sustainability: A Balanced Approach
The inauguration also served as a platform to discuss the integration of tourism and sustainability. DOT-7 Regional Director Judy Gabato emphasized that Dauin’s natural beauty and biodiversity must be preserved even as tourism activities expand.
“The Dauin Jetty Port will undoubtedly attract more visitors, but it is our responsibility to ensure that these developments are inclusive and environmentally responsible,” Director Gabato said.
The jetty port is expected to facilitate eco-tourism activities in Dauin, including scuba diving, snorkeling, and visits to Apo Island, one of the Philippines’ premier diving destinations.
Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project: A Sweet Future
NOCCI’s Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project is an innovative example of how economic empowerment and environmental conservation can intersect. By promoting the cultivation of high-quality cacao in the Mt. Talinis area, the project not only produces premium chocolate but also provides local farmers with sustainable income sources.
This initiative aligns with NOCCI’s broader goals of promoting inclusive growth while preserving Negros Oriental’s natural heritage. The project has gained attention as a model for sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
Looking Ahead
The inauguration of the Dauin Jetty Port marks a significant milestone for Negros Oriental, but it is just the beginning of the province’s journey toward sustainable development and economic progress. NOCCI remains committed to championing initiatives that balance growth with ecological stewardship.
President Edward Du concluded his remarks with a call to action:
“Today, we celebrate progress, but tomorrow, we continue the work. Let us build on this momentum, ensuring that every step we take forward benefits our communities, our economy, and our environment.”
The First Dauin Jetty Port’s inauguration is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and shared vision. By addressing the needs of both commerce and conservation, Negros Oriental is setting a standard for balanced development.
With NOCCI at the helm of initiatives like the SAVE Mt. Talinis program and the Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project, the province is poised to become a model for sustainable and inclusive growth. As Negros Oriental navigates this promising future, its leaders and stakeholders continue to inspire with their dedication to progress that benefits all.
