Bacolod city: Local government officials in the Visayas region are collaborating with leaders from adjacent provinces to position the Visayas as a central hub for development in the Philippines. "It's about time that we share a common goal and become one in making Visayas the center of our country," stated Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya at the conclusion of the 35th Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC) hosted by Bacolod City.

According to Philippines News Agency, the conference featured a session titled 'The Roadmap to Regional Development of the Visayas Amidst the Global Crisis' on Thursday afternoon. The session included panelists such as Governors Manuel 'Chaco' Sagarbarria of Negros Oriental, Jose Enrique Miraflores of Aklan, Pamela Baricuatro of Cebu, and Carlos Jericho Petilla of Leyte. Discussions during this session focused on the Visayas' economic trajectory amidst the national energy emergency, highlighting growth drivers, expansion opportunities, and recalibration strategies to ensure inclusive and sustainable development.

Mayor Gasataya emphasized the importance of unity, stating, "It was a very powerful and meaningful picture. All of us were making the sign of one. It's a challenge for all of us. It's about time that all of us should have a common goal. We can only do that if we become one - One Visayas." Alongside Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, Gasataya highlighted the need to create a safe and supportive business environment and foster stronger partnerships.

In his presentation titled 'Bacolod in Action: Sustainable, Resilient and Open for Business,' Mayor Gasataya assured investors of the city's commitment to protecting their investments, emphasizing Bacolod's readiness for business with prime areas available for development, including a city-owned 75-hectare property and a 5-hectare lot at the old airport.

Governor Lacson underscored the Visayas' dynamic nature, rich in resources, culture, talent, and enterprise. "Our islands continue to demonstrate that progress is strongest when communities, businesses, and institutions move with shared purpose. In Negros Occidental, we welcome the opportunity to strengthen partnerships, exchange ideas, and open new avenues and approaches for growth and innovation," he said.

The 35th VABC, convened by the local chambers of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry across the Visayas, carried the theme 'Future Forward: Shaping Sustainable and Resilient Communities and Smarter Business.' The conference explored the integration of technology and sustainability to forge a stronger, more adaptable Visayas.