The Central Visayas region — comprising Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor — stands as one of the Philippines’ most dynamic economic zones. With its growing infrastructure, skilled workforce, and vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, Region 7 is fast becoming a prime destination for both local and foreign investors.
But behind this steady growth is a powerful driving force — the Board of Investments (BOI). Through the Omnibus Investments Code (E.O. 226) and the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act, the BOI plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable and inclusive economic development throughout the region.
If you are a business owner or investor eyeing opportunities in Central Visayas, understanding how BOI encourages local growth can help you align your enterprise with the region’s promising economic future.
The BOI’s Mission: Empowering Regional Growth
The Board of Investments, under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), is tasked with stimulating investments that promote national industrialization and regional development. Its primary goal is not merely to attract capital but to ensure that such investments generate employment, technology transfer, and countryside development.
In Region 7, the BOI’s strategy is clear — encourage local and foreign businesses to invest in industries that strengthen the region’s economy while maintaining compliance with national laws and sustainable practices.
Key Ways BOI Encourages Local Growth in Region 7
1. Offering Tax Incentives to Qualified Enterprises
Through the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP), the BOI identifies activities entitled to fiscal and non-fiscal incentives. These include:
Income Tax Holiday (ITH) for up to 6 years
Duty-free importation of capital equipment
Enhanced deductions for training, labor, and R&D expenses
VAT zero-rating on local purchases related to export activities
⚖️ Legal Insight: Under the CREATE Act, BOI-registered enterprises in less-developed areas such as Bohol or Negros Oriental may qualify for longer incentive periods, reinforcing the government’s commitment to regional balance and inclusive growth.
2. Encouraging Regional Industrial Diversification
Region 7 is not solely dependent on tourism and services. The BOI actively supports diversification through the promotion of industries such as:
Manufacturing and shipbuilding in Cebu
Agri-processing and aquaculture in Negros Oriental and Bohol
Renewable energy and infrastructure across the region
IT-BPO and creative services catering to international clients
By backing these industries with incentives and policy support, the BOI ensures that Central Visayas remains economically competitive and legally compliant with national investment standards.
3. Supporting MSMEs and Local Entrepreneurs
Contrary to common belief, BOI registration is not only for large corporations. Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are encouraged to register if they engage in activities listed under the SIPP.
💼 Example: A Cebu-based startup producing eco-friendly packaging materials may qualify as a BOI-registered manufacturing enterprise, allowing it to access tax incentives and technical assistance.
By supporting MSMEs, the BOI nurtures homegrown industries, promotes job creation, and enhances local value chains.
4. Promoting Sustainable and Inclusive Investments
Sustainability is at the core of modern investment law. BOI-approved projects must comply with environmental standards and contribute to community welfare.
📍 Case in Point: A renewable energy project in Bohol that provides electricity to off-grid barangays not only earns tax incentives but also aligns with the government’s sustainable development goals.
⚖️ Legal Perspective: Under Republic Act No. 9513 (Renewable Energy Act) and related BOI rules, enterprises adopting green technology are entitled to extended fiscal incentives and priority processing of government permits.
5. Streamlining Registration and Compliance
The BOI has modernized its processes to make business registration easier for investors in the Visayas. Through the BOI eRegistration System, applicants can file online, submit digital documents, and monitor application status in real-time.
This digital shift is consistent with the government’s policy of ease of doing business under Republic Act No. 11032, ensuring transparency, accountability, and faster approvals for qualified enterprises.
Why the Future Looks Bright for Region 7
The future of investment in Central Visayas is undeniably strong.
With Cebu as a business hub, Bohol as an emerging eco-tourism and agri-innovation center, and Negros Oriental as a growing manufacturing and logistics base — the region is well-positioned for sustainable development.
BOI’s support ensures that this growth is:
Legally compliant with national investment laws
Equitable, benefiting both investors and local communities
Sustainable, protecting the region’s natural and cultural resources
🌱 In essence: The BOI’s legal framework transforms investments into long-term partnerships for progress — ensuring that both businesses and communities thrive.
Final Thoughts
For investors and entrepreneurs in Region 7, aligning your business with BOI-approved activities is more than a compliance step — it’s a strategic move toward long-term success.
By availing of BOI incentives, you gain not just financial relief but also government recognition and legal protection that elevate your enterprise’s credibility.
📍 CBOS Business Solutions Inc. assists Cebu, Bohol, and Negros Oriental businesses in securing BOI registration and maximizing available incentives under the CREATE Act — ensuring every step meets legal requirements and serves your growth goals.
Navigating the business landscape in the Philippines can be both rewarding and intricate. Whether you’re embarking on a new venture or scaling up, ensuring that your corporate endeavors are in line with local regulations is paramount.
At CBOS Business Solutions Inc., we pride ourselves on simplifying these processes for our clients. As a seasoned professional services company, we offer comprehensive assistance with SEC Registration, Visa processing, and a myriad of other essential business requirements. Our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring that your business is compliant, well-established, and ready to thrive in the Philippine market.
Why venture into the complexities of business registration and compliance alone? Allow our team to guide you every step of the way. After all, your success is our commitment.
Get in touch today and let us be your partner in achieving your business goals in the Philippines.
Email Address: gerald.bernardo@cbos.com.ph
Mobile No.: +639270032851
You can also click this link to schedule a meeting.
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