Forum to showcase Iloilo, Guimaras economic potentials
The Iloilo Economic Development Foundation (ILEDF) will showcase Iloilo and Guimaras’ economic vibrancy and promising business prospects to investors during an investment forum at Hotel Intercontinental Manila in Makati on Friday September 4.
ILEDF is a non-stock, non-profit organization founded by key representatives from the local government, business community and private individuals, committed to fast track local development by promoting and marketing Iloilo as a premier investment destination.
Positioning as ideal investment hub, Iloilo and Guimaras want to attract investors to explore the economic potentials in the fields of information and communication technology, tourism and agri-business.
An attractive investment center, Iloilo boasts of an international-standard airport with excellent connectivity to Manila, Cebu and Davao.
Investors and visitors alike will be treated to a good mix of cultural and natural attractions, excellent cuisine, hospitable and friendly people. Rest and recreation facilities like beach resorts, golf course, tennis and other sports facilities are sprouting.
The area has also a good track record in peace and order performance.
Major multi-billion infrastructure projects are on track including the 164MW clean coal-fired power plant of Global Business Power Corp. to provide reliable and quality power by 2010 and the Iloilo Flood Control Project to be completed also in 2010.
Water supply studies are also being updated for the installation of steady source and improved distribution services.
Iloilo City prides itself as the educational center for Western Visayas producing highly educated young population.
The metropolis is already home to 6 IT companies and hosts 3,500 call center seats. There’s also the presence of several large international and domestic corporations.
An “OFW country,” Ilonggo OFWs post significant contribution being in Top 5 in the country, regularly remitting dollars to their relatives in Iloilo.
Meanwhile, the area offers a competitive cost of doing business and investment incentives.
An active and concerned private sector has formed a partnership with Iloilo city and provincial governments to ensure good governance, delivery of service and infrastructure, and investments.
An alliance among 5 local governments in Iloilo city and province and Guimaras are working together to address common problems and concerns after it was institutionalized in an executive order signed by President Arroyo in August 2006.
These development-oriented, business-friendly local governments understand the strategic role of business in improving the quality of life of the community.
Several new development and rehabilitation projects are already in the pipeline to propel the growth centers.
The 54-hectare old Iloilo airport site in Mandurriao district will be transformed by Megaworld into a rising mixed-use development while Ayala Land will also develop a BPO Center in the city.
Iloilo City’s Redevelopment Plans will revive the downtown business district Calle Real, Central Market and Ferry Terminals, among others. Likewise, an Iloilo Special Ecozone and Freeport has been proposed. (PIO)