ILOILO — The Iloilo Provincial Government and the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI) formalized a partnership on August 27, 2026, designed to make doing business in the province faster and more efficient. The memorandum of agreement was signed during the opening of the BOI-LOKAL 2026 Learning Festival at Diversion 21.
A Partnership for Smoother Business Processes
The agreement focuses on sharing investment information and assisting investors with permits and licenses. A key feature is the establishment of a Green Lane for Strategic Investments, which will streamline requirements for qualified projects. This expedited channel is mandated under Executive Order 18, series of 2023.
The BOI will also provide investment seminars, business matching activities, and technical assistance. These support mechanisms aim to strengthen local investment policies and attract more capital. The collaboration positions Iloilo as an investor-friendly destination ready to welcome new enterprises.
Key Signatories Present
The agreement was signed by Bobby G. Fondevilla, Executive Director of the Investments Assistance Center of DTI-BOI; Aulynn Yue Sin, Provincial LEDIP Officer; and Ernesto C. Delos Reyes Jr., Director of the Investments Assistance Service of DTI-BOI. Their presence underscored the commitment of both provincial and national agencies.
The two-day learning festival gathered government officials, business stakeholders, and development partners. The event served as a platform to discuss investment facilitation and local economic development. The partnership signing was a highlight that set the tone for the entire gathering.
Beyond Investment-Ready to Innovation-Ready
In her welcome remarks, Yue Sin emphasized that attracting investments must create real opportunities for local communities. She called for the province to move beyond being investment-ready and become truly receptive to investors and new technologies. The goal is to be investor-friendly and innovation-ready.
This vision aligns with the broader objective of ensuring that economic gains translate into tangible benefits. The partnership with BOI provides the tools to achieve this transformation. Iloilo is positioning itself not just as a destination for capital, but as a hub for sustainable growth.
A Champion's Perspective on Ease of Doing Business
4th District Representative Ferjenel G. Biron served as the festival's inspirational speaker. He authored the Ease of Doing Business Act, drawing from personal experience as a businessman. Biron stressed that investment figures alone should not measure success.
He challenged stakeholders to ask whether investments create jobs, support farmers, develop youth, and reach barangays. This people-centered approach to economic development resonates deeply with the province's goals. His message reinforced the importance of inclusive growth.
Building Momentum for Iloilo's Future
The partnership with BOI represents a significant step forward for Iloilo's economic agenda. By streamlining processes and providing technical support, the province is removing barriers that previously slowed down investors. The Green Lane mechanism is expected to significantly reduce processing times.
The festival continues on August 28 with sessions on local economic development and business innovation. The momentum generated by this partnership is expected to carry forward into concrete projects. Iloilo is demonstrating that progress comes from strong partnerships and a clear vision for the future.
