Iloilo City: The city government, through its public-private partnership office (PPPO), is currently evaluating a significant PHP18.27-billion project proposal known as the Iloilo Global City project. The proposal, submitted by the Iloilo Global City Corporation (IGCC), is among the forthcoming projects listed by the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center.

According to Philippines News Agency, PPPO head, lawyer David Abraham Garcia, has identified the proponent of this ambitious project as Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI), a company with considerable experience in reclamation activities. IGCC is associated with CLI, further strengthening its position in property development.

Garcia disclosed that the proposal involves a 662-hectare reclamation project, with 51 percent of the reclaimed area slated to be owned by the government. The remaining portion would belong to the proponent. Crucially, the government would not need to invest any funds into this project. The development is planned for two sites: one extending from Fort San Pedro (City Proper) to Villa (Arevalo), and a coastal site near Barangay Bito-on.

The project is unique in that it is not attached to the existing landmass of the city, but rather designed as an island type. The plan includes the development of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Currently, the detailed evaluation of the proposal is underway, with a target completion date set for June. If deemed beneficial, the city will move forward to the negotiation phase.

The PPPO has already engaged various government agencies to gather sentiments and identify project requirements. Approval from both the local development council and the National Economic and Development Authority is necessary due to the project’s scale.

Garcia emphasized the city’s need for additional space, which this project could potentially provide. He noted that if properly planned and implemented, the project would be advantageous for ordinary citizens, contributing to the city’s overall development.