VMC celebrates 105 years, embraces technology

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — Victorias Milling Company (VMC), recognized as the country’s largest sugar mill and refinery, celebrated its 105th anniversary on May 7. The company expressed gratitude to its hardworking employees and partners who have contributed throughout the years.

VMC also reaffirmed its commitment to embracing technology, trends, and innovation to sustain growth in the rapidly evolving sugar industry.

Linley Retirado, President of VMC, praised the dedication of the company’s workforce. “Today, we reflect on our journey, from the challenges of our rehabilitation era to becoming the thriving enterprise we are today,” he said.

“Over the years, we have faced numerous challenges and overcome countless obstacles, but through it all, we have remained steadfast in our pursuit of excellence and even ventured into diversification,” Retirado added.

Founded in 1919 in Victorias City, Negros Occidental, VMC began as a sugar mill and refinery and has since expanded into food, power generation, bioethanol, and other sectors.

Wilson Young, VMC Chairman, credited the company’s success to its employees, planters, partners, and supportive local government units. “We have surpassed challenges over the years because of all of you, allowing us to celebrate this 105-year milestone,” he said.

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson also commended VMC for its significant role in the province’s sustainable development. “VMC stands as a central figure in the narrative of our province, symbolizing the economic, historical, and developmental strides of Negros Occidental,” Lacson remarked, describing the company as an icon embodying the region’s challenges and triumphs as the ‘sugar bowl of the country.’

Lacson highlighted VMC’s pivotal role during the African Swine Fever scare, noting the company helped the province remain ASF-free by meeting local pork requirements.

Looking to the future, Retirado expressed optimism and excitement, committing to “deliver the highest quality products and services to our customers.”

The anniversary celebrations began with a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Joseph the Worker Church on the VMC compound, followed by lunch and games for employees. The festivities concluded with a dinner at Nature’s Village Resort in Talisay, Negros Occidental, attended by local government officials, planters, suppliers, and other partners.