Bacolod City was named the Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit (City Level-1B) in the country, during the 2024 Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Awards rites held at the Marriott Hotel in Pasay City on Wednesday, October 23.
Bacolod won over four other finalists – Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, and Mandaue.
Mayor Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez received the award on behalf of Bacolod City.
“We are honored to receive this recognition, which reflects the commitment of Bacolod to creating an environment where businesses can thrive. This is a victory for all Bacolodnons as we continue to drive growth, innovation, and opportunities in our city,” Benitez said.
The award was based on the following criteria: fast-tracking sustainable local economic development, ease of doing business initiatives, investment promotion efforts, and enhancing sectoral competitiveness.
Bacolod’s rise to the top of the list reinforces its reputation as a hub for business and economic activity in the Visayas region, a press release from the city government said.*