Connectivity blamed for Bacolod’s exclusion from Super Cities list

Bacolod City governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. said connectivity is the main reason why Bacolod dropped out of Tholons International’s Top 100 Super Cities list. According to the governor, many firms are interested in setting up businesses in places far from major business hubs, such as Cadiz, Kabankalan, and San Carlos, but poor internet connection can discourage IT-BPO companies and investors from establishing businesses in the province. This year’s index included new indicators such as digital investment and use of artificial intelligence and cloud, among others. Marañon said the provincial government has helped the local ICT industry grow with the development of the Negros First Cyber Centre (NFCC) in Bacolod City, which provides space for BPO firms and startups. Em Ang, city councilor and Bacolod’s ICT focal officer, said Bacolod’s exclusion from the list is just a temporary setback that may impact the BPO and BPM industry in the area, but that it is no cause for concern as the city’s ICT industry continues to grow. Bacolod placed 89^th in last year’s Top 100 Super Cities list.

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