Iloilo among top 5 finalists for most business-friendly province

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The province of Iloilo has again secured a spot among the Top 5 finalists for the 2025 Most Business-Friendly Provinces in the country, as recognized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

Iloilo will compete against Bataan, Bulacan, Camarines Sur, and Cavite during the final judging scheduled for Sept. 25 at the PCCI office in Taguig City.

According to the provincial government, the recognition affirms its commitment to strengthening Iloilo’s business climate and driving economic growth through its development agenda, “Movement for a Robust, Progressive and Globally Competitive and Resilient” (MoRProGRes) Iloilo, led by Governor Arthur Defensor Jr.

In 2024, Iloilo ranked second in the same category and earned its first special citation from PCCI for supporting infrastructure initiatives that promote sustainable urban development and create new growth centers.

The award was attributed to the province’s strong public-private partnerships (PPPs) and its focus on accelerating inclusive progress.

Also gaining national recognition, the municipalities of Guimbal, Mina, and New Lucena are among the Top 5 finalists in the 2025 Most Business-Friendly Municipalities (Level 2 Category).

Meanwhile, Oton and Tigbauan are finalists in the Level 1 Category for first- to second-class municipalities.

The PCCI award honors local government units that excel in promoting trade and investment, ensuring transparency and accountability, delivering efficient business services, and partnering with the private sector for sustainable development.

This year’s theme, “The Future Is Now: Unleash the Power of Digital Transformation,” highlights how LGUs are leveraging innovation and technology to build more competitive and business-enabling environments.