NegOr Tourism Code Need Updating

The Investment and Tourism Code of Negros Oriental need updating to make the province more investor-friendly, according to Myla Mae Bromo Abellana, provincial tourism officer.  The province’s Tourism Code was last updated five years ago and its Investment Code needs amendments to offer better services and choices for potential investors.  Abellana made these statements after last week’s Tourism Investment Forum wherein questions were raised by the different stakeholders who were present regarding the Investment Code and other related concerns.  She further added that updating the codes is already in the target accomplishments and she is hopeful that this will be completed by next year after going through the amendment process that includes public hearings prior to approval of the governor.

Abellana hinted on amending the number of years that investors will be enjoying tax exemptions (e.g., by increasing it from five years to ten years) and on looking into the establishment of one-stop-shops for processing business applications and other licenses, including the documentary requirements needed.

The forum was also attended by representatives of local government units and together with other stakeholders, they were oriented on how to attract potential investors, promote tourist destinations and apply with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA).  Abellana said that they are considering Hinakpan Hills in Guihulngan City and Danapa in Bayawan City as TIEZA zones but they still need to coordinate with these LGUs on the information needed for their applications to TIEZA.

It is expected that Dumaguete City, the capital city, has the most number of investors but it would be better for other LGUs to be developed as well for investment and tourism purposes in order to decongest Dumaguete, considered as one of the top retirement destinations in the world.