Investment Guide Highlights Iloilo’s Business Potential

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

An updated investment guide showcasing Iloilo City’s business and economic potential was launched on Friday, November 15, to attract local and international investors.

The guide, titled “Doing Business in Iloilo,” was officially handed over by PwC Philippines to the Iloilo City government. It features comprehensive insights into the city’s business environment, including how to set up a business, registration requirements, and incentives.

PwC Philippines Chairman Roderick Danao said the guide highlights Iloilo City’s strategic location, highly skilled workforce, and modern infrastructure, positioning it as a regional business hub.

“It is an enticing destination for a wide range of industries, such as technology, agriculture, and logistics, driving economic growth and creating employment opportunities,” Danao said.

The guide also explores Iloilo’s major industries, fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, and infrastructure developments, emphasizing its capacity for high-profit ventures.

Danao stressed the importance of attracting investments in manufacturing to ensure inclusive economic growth that benefits all sectors of society.

PwC aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Iloilo by helping them adopt better financial practices and governance to access loans and scale their operations.

“One of our ambitions is to launch SME services. Many SMEs in the Philippines cannot scale because they lack the governance practices needed to secure loans. We plan to offer these services at a price they can afford,” Danao explained.

He expressed optimism that Iloilo City will become a key investment destination within the next 10 to 15 years, supported by initiatives to strengthen local businesses and ensure regulatory compliance.

PwC Philippines has previously launched investment guides for Cebu, Davao, and Metro Manila.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said the guide would help the city government engage with prospective investors and foster collaborations.

“We hope that the publication’s launch will ignite new partnerships in Iloilo City. The city government is optimistic that we can achieve more by working together to advance investments, developments, and opportunities,” Treñas said.

PwC operates as a global network of independent member firms. In the Philippines, it is known as Isla Lipana & Co., offering top-tier assurance, advisory, and tax services.