Negros is an economically and culturally diverse island with a wide range of business opportunities for different types of investors. One of the provinces that make up the island, Negros Occidental, and its capital Bacolod City has especially been experiencing a significant steady growth trajectory over the recent years. One main driver for such is its real estate industry.
Below, we discuss business opportunities in Bacolod and Negros Occidental as a whole. Next, we will detail why real estate investment is a prospering industry in the city. Lastly, we lay out all the reasons why an investor consider putting in a stake in Camella Bacolod South.
The rich investment landscape of Negros Island
Negros is a melting pot of cultures in the Visayas and it is divided into two independent provinces: Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental with Negros Occidental housing the capital, Bacolod City.
Negros Oriental and its capital Dumaguete City is famous for its universities, which include Silliman University. Also known as the City of the Gentle People, Dumaguete attracts students from within the country and even abroad. Aside from its strong education sector, Negros Occidental also has scenic tourist spots which support the local economy.
In fact when incumbent Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson assumed office, he said “I really feel strong about tourism. We do have a plan to even improve further Mambukal resort. I am so excited about it.” Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson also expressed his desire to continue the scholarship program and investment in infrastructure project outside of Bacolod City.
Negros Occidental, on the other hand, contributes more than half of the country’s sugar production, earning its title as the Sugar Bowl of the Philippines. This is because the province has vast sugarcane plantations and adequate facilities to support its strong sugar industry and supply the demand of other provinces. Aside from its robust agricultural performance, the province’s capital, Bacolod City, is also one of the fastest-growing IT and BPO hubs in the Philippines.
With all these booming industries and the provincial economic development at the helm, Negros is becoming a haven for investors and families who want to live in progressive provinces with a laidback environment.
With this, more people also buy properties and settle down on the island. One testament to this is the expanding real estate projects like Camella in Bacolod, which offers the ideal location for property investment in the province.
Below, we explore the opportunities that make real estate investment rewarding in Negros Occidental.
Opportunities for investment in Negros Occidental
Growing economy ripe for business
Negros Occidental’s economy is made up of diverse industries that appeal to those investing — both local and foreign. As the province’s capital, Bacolod City serves as its primary economic hub and investment center, especially for emerging industries such as information technology.
Once predominantly agricultural, Bacolod has successfully converted its lands into economic zones and real estate developments. In addition to agriculture, sectors like manufacturing, services, tourism, and real estate now drive Bacolod’s economy.
LGU support
To promote the entrance of new businesses, the local government of both the city and province, offer favorable incentives to investors. One of the key agencies that support this initiative is the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Center (PEDIC). The goal of PEDIC is to provide a one-stop facilitation office in the province and streamline business permit and license processing.
For the rest of the provincial cities, the benchmark law is the Negros Occidental Local Investment and Incentives Code (LIIC). This code regulates and promotes investments in the province as well as aligns the initiatives of the local government with national policies. More specifically, the code outlines the preferred areas of investment per city, the specific fiscal incentives set by the provincial government, and the process for the submission of intent.
Some examples of these incentives include, but are not limited to, tax holidays and exemptions, and other financial incentives. Ultimately, the main goal of these initiatives is to attract new and retain existing businesses that will stimulate economic growth.
Renewable energy sources
As Negros Occidental grows its economy, the province also expands its development of renewable energy sources. Though it has long embraced sustainable energy practices by leveraging solar and hydroelectric power, the province is also exploring the feasibility of large-scale biofuel production. Currently, the local govenrment is looking into the potential of biomass energy from agricultural by-products (such as sugarcane waste) for electricity production.
These alternative energy sources’ integration is meant to reduce the province’s carbon footprint as it continues to develop. Furthermore, this also ensures a sustainable future for the locals and puts the province one step closer to its goal of energy self-sufficiency.
Vibrant tourism and culture
Negros Occidental has a multitude of natural wonders and cultural heritage heritage that are worth celebrating. Its tourism industry caters to local and foreign visitors with events like the famous MassKara Festival that reflects the province’s long-treasured traditions.
Additionally, Negros Occidental is also home to many cultural attractions and heritage sites that tell bits of the province’s history. All in all, these landmarks provide visitors with an immersive experience that is unique to the province.
As a result, the influx of visitors boosts the local economy and creates employment opportunities for the tourism and hospitality sectors. Moreover, a thriving tourism industry means more potential for growth in the real estate, transportation, and leisure sectors. All this tourism infrastructure, in turn, enhances the experiences for locals and visitors and spurs economic growth in the province.
Lower living cost
Living in Negros Occidental and even in Bacolod City is relatively cheaper than other metropolitan areas in the Philippines. One reason for this is its affordable housing options. For instance, buying a house and lot for sale or renting a property in Bacolod can give you a bigger space with the same budget as in Manila or Cebu.
The low cost of living in the region also allows residents to have more disposable income for other investments. In addition, food, transportation, and utilities cost in Negros Occidental are also lower as the province has easy access to fresh produce.
Finally, transportation costs are also in the minimum level in the province. Whether you are commuting within the city or taking your private car to neighboring towns, you spend less than you normally would in other metropolitan areas.
Overall, Negros Occidental provides an affordable lifestyle that makes quality living more accessible for residents. As a result, living here helps you build bigger savings, which makes it perfect for individuals and families looking for a more cost-effective environment.
Low barrier to real estate entry
Bacolod City and the rest of Negros Occidental have a relatively lower barrier to entry for real estate investments. Because of lower real estate prices, investors can acquire commercial and residential properties even with less capital. This and other local government incentives make Negros Occidental an appealing destination for real estate investments.
Why invest in Camella Bacolod South
When choosing a property in Negros Occidental, go with a future-proof investment like Camella’s newest development in Bacolod. Camella Bacolod South is a 23-hectare house and lot subdivision in a strategic location that puts you close to all your lifestyle needs.
Here, you are about half an hour away from the nearest airport and within 20 minutes of the local port. Within the community, residents can also enjoy easy access to a swimming pool, basketball court, play area, and pocket parks for physical activities.
Given this convenience and accessibility, Camella Bacolod South does not only promise a comfortable lifestyle but also an investment that appreciates over time.
For more investment options, check out Camella’s vertical village in Bacolod.
Check out our House and Lot for Sale Properties
Discover our house and lot for sale properties in the Philippines
