The Department of Trade and Industry in Central Visayas (DTI-7) disclosed on Thursday that service-based industries have increased significantly, boosting the region’s economy.

DTI-7 regional director Maria Elena Arbon highlighted to reporters the significant growth in tourism, business process management, large-scale enterprises, and retail, which are key contributors to the region’s economic expansion.

“If you look at IT Park, most businesses there are in the service sector. Our tourism industry is also service-based,” she said.

“’Have you ever wondered why Cebu has so many malls? It’s because of service jobs, tourism and IT Park-related employment. But at the end of the day, we need to eat. That’s why food remains a strong sector,” Arbon stressed.

Despite the dominance of the service industry, the food sector remains a strong pillar of the region’s economy.

Cebu City serves as the central hub for these industries, blending history, culture, and digitalization in a fast-paced economy.

As she assured that DTI continues to support businesses in the processed food sector, helping them scale up development.

Arbon reiterated the importance of Republic Act 10611, or the Food Safety Act of 2013, which DTI strictly enforces to ensure compliance in commercial establishments, particularly in malls within Cebu’s tri-cities.

She said under the Food Safety Act, businesses can no longer sell in malls and supermarkets without a license to operate and a Certificate of Business Registration.