The Provincial Government of Tarlac has been named one of the Top 5 finalists in the provincial category of the 2026 Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit (LGU) Awards.

Tarlac made the cut from 82 provinces nationwide, joining Camarines Sur, Cavite, Davao del Norte and Iloilo in the final round of the competition.

During the final judging held at the PCCI office in Taguig City, Gov. Christian Tell Yap described the recognition as an honor for the province and its stakeholders.

“Malaking karangalan po para sa ating lalawigan ang mapasama sa Top 5 Most Business-Friendly LGUs sa Provincial Level ng 2026 Most Business-Friendly LGU Awards ng PCCI,” Yap said.

He added that the recognition reflects the collective efforts of provincial government employees, business stakeholders and the wider Tarlac community in promoting faster, more efficient and responsive public service.

The PCCI awards assess local governments based on key areas, including fast-tracking sustainable local economic development, ease of doing business initiatives, investment promotion, sectoral competitiveness, digital transformation and good governance.

Joining Yap in receiving the Top 5 citation were Provincial Executive Assistants Atty. Malou Navarro and Graciaella Marie Leandicho, Provincial Cooperative Enterprise and Development Officer Marvi dela Cruz, Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Officer Frances Margaret Canlas, Public Employment Service Officer Maria Lira Reyes, and PCCI-Tarlac President Aileen Chan.

“Bagama’t marami pa tayong dapat pagbutihin, patuloy ang ating pagsisikap na gawing mas bukas at kaaya-aya ang ating lalawigan sa negosyo, at makapagbigay ng mas maraming oportunidad para sa bawat Tarlaqueño,” Yap said.

He thanked the community for its continued trust and support, adding, “Mabuhay ang Tarlac.”

The province is now competing for the top honor in the 2026 PCCI Most Business-Friendly LGU Awards.