Ilagan City is once again among the contenders for national recognition as the Most Business-Friendly City in Level 2 at the 52nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo, putting its business environment back in the spotlight.
The Isabela capital, known as the Corn Capital of the Philippines, recently underwent an interview as part of the selection process alongside other top candidates, including Biñan City, Calamba City, General Trias City, and Santa Rosa City.
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Ilagan Seeks Third Straight National Recognition
The city is looking to build on its recent record after being named the national winner in category 2 as the Most Business-Friendly City in the last two years. The recognition covers first and second class component cities.
Other city finalists in this year's competition include Antipolo, Bacoor, Batangas, Cauayan, Dasmariñas, Imus, Kidapawan, Legazpi, Ormoc, Panabo, San Fernando, La Union, San Fernando, Pampanga, Tagum, Tarlac and Tuguegarao.
The winners will be determined next week, with the awarding rites scheduled for Oct. 13-14 at the Manila Hotel. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry is organizing the event.
Ilagan's economic profile is closely linked to its agriculture program and its ability to utilize its expansive territory. The city has the fourth largest land component throughout the country, providing a significant geographic base for its economic activities.
Business, Agriculture and Tourism Drive City’s Profile
Beyond agriculture and business, Ilagan has also developed a reputation as the sports and tourism hub of the north. The city has hosted major events including the East Asia Super League, PBA provincial games, Premier Volleyball League on Tour, and the Asian Tournament, among others.
Its entertainment calendar is also set to gain another major attraction next month, when Air Supply is scheduled to hold a concert at the Capital Arena.
The city's latest bid places its business environment alongside the wider economic and tourism activities that have shaped its profile. Whether it secures another national title will be determined at the upcoming awarding rites, but the competition itself highlights the growing role of local governments in creating conditions that support enterprises, agriculture, tourism, and events.
For Ilagan, a business-friendly environment is ultimately measured not only through recognition, but through what it can translate into for local businesses, workers and communities. A stronger local economy can mean more opportunities to invest, work, and build livelihoods within the city, making the policies behind these awards relevant well beyond the ceremony.
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