Laoag: Ilocos Norte province is anticipating the creation of thousands of jobs in the construction and tourism sectors as real estate company Megaworld prepares to begin the land development of its PHP15 billion Ilocandia Coastown project in Barangay Calayab this year.

According to Philippines News Agency, Harold Geronimo, first vice president of Megaworld Corporation, announced at a media conference that over the next five to ten years, the proposed 84-hectare Ilocandia Coastown will evolve into a bustling business and leisure community. This development is expected to instill pride among Ilocanos, especially the residents of Laoag.

Geronimo highlighted the township's vision, which includes a 'live-work-play' integrated concept as part of its development plan. This approach aims to create more jobs during the construction phase and across various industries once the commercial hub, hotel, and offices are operational.

May Santos, head of sales and marketing for the Ilocandia Coastown, previously revealed that the first phase of the project involves a 19.4-hectare exclusive, gated residential village with direct beach access. The land development for this phase is set to commence this year.

The Ilocandia beach village project will offer 446 lots ranging from 230 to 406 square meters, targeting balikbayans and retirees. These lots are initially priced at PHP23,000 per square meter.

Megaworld's statement indicates that the lots in Ilocandia beach village are expected to be ready for turnover by 2031, with projected sales of PHP2 billion for this phase alone.

In terms of infrastructure, the village will be the first in the city to feature an underground cabling system for all electrical and telecommunication services. This innovation is intended to preserve the scenic, unobstructed view of the beachside development.