Tagum City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.

31/03/2026

𝗧𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗺 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘀𝗹𝗮𝗺𝘀 𝗡𝗢𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗖𝗢’𝘀 ‘𝗽𝗲𝘁𝘁𝘆 𝗲𝘅𝗶𝘁’

March 30, 2026 – We strongly denounce the appalling and petty behavior of the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (NORDECO) management following the deliberate trashing of their Tipaz office facilities during the turnover to the Regional Trial Court sheriff last March 25.

These assets – computers, servers, essential hard drives, and files – are not the personal property of a few disgruntled executives. They are consumer-owned resources, funded by the hard-earned money of the very people NORDECO has committed to serve. By intentionally sabotaging these facilities, NORDECO has shown blatant disregard for the community it claims to represent, choosing petty destruction over the welfare of its members.

Furthermore, this act of "low-ball" defiance is a direct and shameful violation of explicit court orders requiring a peaceful and orderly turnover of all operational assets.

Purposely damaging equipment and compromising data servers is a desperate attempt to stall progress and conceal records, undermining both the judicial process and the rule of law.

We call on the relevant authorities to hold those responsible accountable, as such disgraceful behavior has no place in public service and only harms the consumers who rely on these systems for their daily needs. # # #

28/03/2026

🎉 Congratulations, President Rob Yee Perez! 🎉

The Tagum Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. proudly congratulates Mr. Rob Yee Perez on his election as the 9th President.

A young and visionary leader in the hospitality industry, President Perez brings innovation, operational excellence, and entrepreneurial drive to the Chamber. He serves as Chief Operating Officer of Eloisa Royale Suites and Chief Executive Officer of Royale Paragon Hospitality Group Inc., which manages hotel properties across Visayas and Mindanao, as well as provides consultancy services to hotels. Through these roles, he has demonstrated strong leadership in building brands, empowering teams, and elevating service standards in the region.

With his forward-thinking vision and collaborative approach, the Chamber is poised to strengthen partnerships and promote sustainable growth for businesses in Tagum City.

Padayon, Tagum!

16/02/2026

13/02/2026

𝐏𝐂𝐂𝐈 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐨 𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐆𝐔𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝟑𝟓𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐁𝐢𝐳𝐂𝐨𝐧

On February 12, 2026, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Mindanao delegation, led by Area Vice President for Mindanao Ms. Nenita R. Malbas, paid a courtesy visit to the Cagayan de Oro City Government to strengthen coordination efforts for the upcoming 35th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon). The delegation was warmly received by City Administrator Atty. Roy Raagas and LEDIPO Head John Asuncion, and discussions focused on the city’s growth trajectory, investment opportunities, and joint preparations for the conference scheduled on August 11–13, 2026.

The engagement underscored the shared commitment of the chamber network and the local government to cultivate a supportive environment for enterprises and regional development.

In the afternoon, the second policy consultation workshop for the 35th MinBizCon commenced, bringing together all delegates, regional governors, and chamber representatives for a focused session on strategic planning. Participants engaged in collaborative discussions to identify key policy areas, address emerging business challenges, and align regional priorities with the objectives of the conference. The workshop also served as a platform for exchanging ideas, ensuring that the MinBizCon agenda reflects the collective insights and recommendations of Mindanao’s business and local government leaders. # # #

13/02/2026

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Mindanao formally convened its Turnover Ceremonies and Planning Workshop for 2026-2027 on February 11, 2026, at The VIP Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City, hosted by the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. The event assembled Regional Governors, chamber presidents, and LCCI officers for a pivotal gathering focused on leadership continuity and forward planning.

The activity underscored the transition of leadership, recognizing the dedication of outgoing regional governors while ushering in the new set of regional governors who will guide PCCI Mindanao’s direction for 2026–2027. The occasion likewise featured the valedictory address of Immediate Past Area Vice President for Mindanao Ms. Elena U. Haw and the acceptance message of the new Area Vice President for Mindanao Ms. Nenita R. Malbas, CPA.

During the workshop proper, participants collaborated on refining strategic priorities and harmonizing annual operational plans, reinforcing regional coordination and collective action among Mindanao chambers.

Representing the Tagum City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (TCCCII), Incoming President Mr. Rob Y. Perez and Executive Director Geraldine Jay C. Ballentos, LPT took part in the proceedings, signifying the Chamber’s strong support for unified initiatives toward a more dynamic and resilient Mindanao business landscape. # # #

20/12/2025

𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧

The Tagum City Chamber of Commerce welcomes the provisional Certificate of Public Conveyance and Necessity (CPCN) issued by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to Davao Light and Power Co. This is one big step for customers of Tagum City and Davao del Norte who aspire for better service and lower electricity rates.

With the provisional CPCN, Davao Light is now allowed to connect customers, issue electric bills, and eventually collect payments, subject to the overwatch of the regulator, the ERC.

While we understand Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (NORDECO) is still putting up resistance and going to court to stop Davao Light from taking over and to stop customers from switching – the business sector is still hoping for the NORDECO Board of Directors to initiate a level-headed negotiation and peaceful transition from NORDECO to Davao Light. This is what we the business sector and consumers hope and pray for.

We all deserve lower rates and better service to support business, improve lives, and build a better economy for Tagum City and Davao del Norte. # # #

10/12/2025

𝐓𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐦 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐁𝐎𝐓𝐬, 𝐬𝐨𝐟𝐭-𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐬𝐲𝐨 𝐀𝐩𝐩, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫-𝐄𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲

Tagum City, Davao del Norte – The Tagum City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (TCCCII) successfully held its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), Election of New Board of Trustees (BOT), and Year-End Thanksgiving Party on December 7, 2025 at Molave Hotel, Tagum City. The event gathered chamber members, business leaders, and partners to reflect on the year’s milestones and welcome new leadership for the coming term.

The event was also graced by Mr. Alexander Gregory C. Rubinos, Senior Vice President of the LYR Group of Companies, who delivered an inspiring message on behalf of his father, Mr. Lorenzo Y. Rubinos Sr. He highlighted the value of perseverance, strategic leadership, and collaboration, principles that have guided their organization and continue to empower the business community.

Meanwhile, Mr. Arnel Bersabe, General Manager for the Northern Franchise Area of Davao Light and Power Company, Inc., served as a keynote speaker for “Partnering for Progress: Davao Light and the Business Community.” He shared updates on the company’s expansion efforts mandated under Republic Act 12144, reinforcing Davao Light’s commitment to providing reliable and accessible power to support the region’s growing economic activities.

In addition, the chamber also heard a message from the newly inducted PCCI Area Vice President for Mindanao, Ms. Nenita R. Malbas, CPA, MBA, LPT, who expressed her support for the chamber’s initiatives and extended her thanks as we joyfully celebrate the birth of our Almighty this Christmas season.

During the AGM, President Sean A. Gellangarin presented the chamber’s major accomplishments for 2025, including the successful hosting of the 34th Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) held on August 27–29, 2025—an achievement that strengthened Tagum City's position as a center for regional dialogue, investment opportunities, and MSME development. He emphasized the chamber’s continued commitment to fostering collaboration, supporting local enterprises, and driving sustainable economic growth.

The election of the new Board of Trustees was one of the key highlights of the 2025 Annual General Meeting, marking an important moment in defining the chamber’s leadership and direction for the coming years. Three members were elected to serve a three-year term alongside the six incumbents:

Dhoresyl R. Galagala, Proprietor of Chicken Deli / Laybare / CDM’S CDG Food Enterprises Corp. / Chassey’s Waxing Salon / CDM’S Hair Gallery & Nail Spa
Rob Yee Perez, CEO of Royale Paragon Hospitality Group, Inc.
Genedel S. Aala of Aala Real Estate Leasing

In his message, President Gellangarin expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the trust and support given to the board, reaffirming TCCCII’s mission of championing local business growth and strengthening public–private synergy. He emphasized the importance of unity and innovation as the chamber continues to expand its programs and partnerships.

Marking an innovative step forward, the event also featured the Soft Launching of the Serbisyo App, a platform developed to address the challenge of finding trustworthy and reliable service providers. Serbisyo creates a safe and efficient ecosystem by verifying local professionals, offering users a curated network of skilled and trusted experts. Team Dibuho, the innovators behind the app, took the stage to present how this platform aims to transform the way communities connect with service providers.

The evening concluded with a festive Year-End Thanksgiving Party, where members and guests celebrated the chamber’s achievements, strengthened networks, and expressed optimism for a more united and dynamic business sector in 2026. | # # #

09/12/2025

𝐓𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐦 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

December 9, 2025 – Businessmen in Tagum City have expressed optimism over recent developments in the transition of power services.

“Stable, affordable electricity is important considering that it greatly affects our operations. Stable electricity means stable operations while affordable electricity means competitive prices in products and services,” said Engr. Sean Gellangarin, President of the Tagum City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (TCCCII).

At the TCCCII Annual General Meeting and Election of the 2026 Board of Trustees on December 7, 2025, Davao Light’s General Manager for the Northern Franchise Area, Arnel Bersabe, presented updates on the company’s expansion efforts mandated under Republic Act 12144.

“No TRO (temporary restraining order) [has been] issued. So, in the absence of a TRO, the law is deemed valid, deemed regular. That is why we are starting with the transition,” Bersabe said.

He explained that Davao Light has already applied for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) with the Energy Regulatory Commission, a requirement for formally expanding into Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro.

Bersabe added that the company is committed to connecting the Island Garden City of Samal and Kapalong to its system within the first half of 2026. Once the ERC issues the CPCN, Davao Light expects to quickly connect several customers in Kapalong.

For Tagum City, however, the process will take longer, as a new line must be established from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ (NGCP) substation in Maco, Davao de Oro to Tagum City.

Bersabe noted that the challenge lies in NGCP not allowing the connection to the Maco–Tagum City high-voltage line, the only NGCP line linking Tagum City to its substation.

“Unfortunately, wala nisugot si NGCP. The reason is 99% loaded ang line,” Bersabe said. As a result, Davao Light is building a second line from Maco to Tagum City.

Gellangarin emphasized that Tagum’s business community welcomes these developments, seeing them as positive for the economy and overall business climate in Davao del Norte.

“This transition will definitely allow Davao del Norte to tap its true potential, which has been held back by unreliable and expensive power service,” he said. #

11/11/2025

𝐓𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐈𝐈 𝐅𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬, 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐦’𝐬 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲

Tagum City, Philippines – November 7, 2025 – The Tagum City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (TCCCII) successfully held its General Membership Meeting (GMM) at Cris Inn-Tagum, Tagum City, with the theme “Building Readiness. Honoring Partners. Advancing Together.” The meeting was presided over by TCCCII President Engr. Sean A. Gellangarin, gathering member-businesses and partner offices for a productive exchange of insights.

The highlight of the meeting was the Business Renewal Readiness Discussion for 2026, which featured updates and process orientations from key government offices including the Business Permit and Licensing Division (BPLD), City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), City Engineering Office (CEO), City Health Office (CHO), City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). The session aimed to guide entrepreneurs in ensuring a smooth and compliant renewal process for the coming year.

The meeting also included presentations from Manulife Philippines and Alsons Development and Investment Corporation, who shared valuable insights on business growth, investment planning, and partnership opportunities, while the Tagum City Business and Incentive Center (TCBIC) encouraged support for the upcoming TINDANOW: Mindanao Regional Fiesta Trade Expo 2025, a major showcase of Mindanao’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). TCCCII expressed its support by helping promote and disseminate information about the event.

As the Chamber continues to strengthen collaboration between the business community and government, the GMM underscored the spirit of readiness, partnership, and shared progress, reflecting TCCCII’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant and sustainable business environment that empowers growth and innovation across the city. | # # #

03/11/2025

📣 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆
📅 November 7, 2025 | 1:00 PM
📍 Cris Inn, Apokon Road, Tagum City
💵 ₱450.00 – for snacks and registration
Let’s talk about “Building Readiness. Honoring Partners. Advancing Together.” — a timely and relevant discussion on business renewal preparation for 2026, partnership-driven growth, and opportunities that strengthen Tagum City’s business community.
🎙️ Guest Speakers:
• Mr. Ian Kevin E. Valle – BPLO Head, Business License Office
• Engr. Roderick C. Onong – Zoning Officer III, CPDO
• Engr. Alex C. Caccam – Engineer III, City Engineering Office
• Mr. Vincent Hyner D. Delima – Sanitation Inspector VI, City Health Office
• Mr. Cyril Chris R. Santiago – Senior Environmental Management Specialist, CENRO
• FO1 Maridyl Kate J. Parcero – Staff, Fire Safety Enforcement Section
• Engr. Rodrigo N. Nala – Plan Evaluator & Inspector, BFP

👨‍💼 Presiding Officer: Engr. Sean A. Gellangarin – President, TCCCII
👩‍💼 Host: Ms. Reyna C. Abagat, LPT – TCCCII Volunteer
✨ Don’t miss this opportunity to network, engage, and learn from key leaders and decision-makers in our local business ecosystem.
📌 Register now and reserve your seat!
🔗 For inquiries, contact our Executive Director, Ms. Geraldine Jay C. Ballentos, LPT, SO2, at
📧 [email protected]
📞 (+63) 998 5948 137

01/10/2025

𝐓𝐂𝐂𝐂𝐈𝐈 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐍𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐂𝐎’𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐥 𝐛𝐢𝐝

Businessmen asks, what is the motive of NORDECO to renew franchise amid unresolved issues

Tagum City, October 1, 2025 – Businesses in Tagum City have suffered for a long time under a power regime where power service is inefficient and expensive.

The growth of local businesses have been withheld by the high power rate and frequent power outages of the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (NORDECO) for the past years. Businesses are forced to spend more as they replace damaged electrical equipment and purchase modular generator sets.

Hence, the Tagum City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. backs the recent move of the provincial government of Davao del Norte, led by Governor Edwin Jubahib, to block the franchise renewal bid of the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative.

The provincial government approved the resolution blocking the franchise renewal during the joint meeting of the Provincial Development Council (PDC) and the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) on September 18, 2025.

The Chamber believes that there needs to be a change in the power regime in Davao del Norte. We cannot continue to operate business as is because it is simply expensive with NORDECO having the most expensive power rate in Davao Region and having to invest in modular generator sets.

Thus, we question the motive of NORDECO on their move to apply for a congressional franchise. The issues of frequent power outages, high power rates, and poor service remain unresolved to this day, yet they want to renew their franchise? The business community have been petitioning for NORDECO to change and resolve its issues, but it seems like our concerns have fell on deaf ears.

We say enough is enough. Tagum City and the rest of Davao del Norte needs to move forward. Having a power regime where electricity is affordable, stable, and reliable is what we need to move forward. # # #