Iloilo-Guimaras may be next investment hub in RP

MANILA, Philippines - Iloilo City and the provinces of Iloilo and Guimaras are setting their caps to be the next big investment hub of the Philippines.

During the one-day “Iloilo-Guimaras Investment Forum” to be held on Sept. 4, at the Hotel Intercontinental Manila in Makati City, host Iloilo Economic Development Foundation Inc. (ILEDF) will present an array of top business leaders to speak on the bright prospects and varied aspects of investments, as well as the innumerable benefits that await investors, in the city and in the two provinces. Attractive investment opportunities are in the areas of information technology and communication, tourism and agribusiness.

The day begins with a commercial exhibit at 8 to 8:30 a.m. followed by welcome remarks from ILEDF officials led by Dr. Alfonso A. Uy, chairman, and Rex Drilon, president. Messages will be delivered by Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Trenas, Iloilo Gov. Niel D. Tupas Sr., and Guimaras Felipe Hilan A. Nava.

Keynote speaker for the morning will be Ramon del Rosario, new chairman of the University of Iloilo and president of PHINMA which just bought into the university, demonstrating its confidence in investing in Iloilo’s educational future. Aurelio R. Montinola III, president and CEO of Bank of the Philippine Islands, will give the luncheon address.

Other business notables who have confirmed to speak are Oscar R. Sanez, president of Business Processing Association of the Phils.; Narzalina Lim, former secretary of tourism and president of Asia-Pacific Projects Inc., Tourism & Hospitality Consultants; Mariano A. Cordero, consultant, International Rural Development Banking; Jesus N. Alcordo, president, Global Power Business Corp.; Elwyn R. Borromeo, general manager Central Azucarera de San Antonio; Federico R. Lopez, president and CEO of First Gen. Corp., and Miguel C. Garcia, president and CEO of Diversified Technology Systems, Inc.

Iloilo City’s location and high level of accessibility, coupled with its extensive and comprehensive capabilities in telecommunications are ideal for even more information and communication technology enterprises. The increased activities in the area of information and communication technology in Iloilo province bring with it the need for more hospital services, educational institutions, especially those serving foreign nationals, housing facilities catering to different income levels, facilities for sports, wellness and recreational activities. Tourism is a natural first choice for investments in Guimaras, especially given the natural beauty of the area. In fact, one of the provincial government’s priorities is enhancing the agri-tourism capability of the province.