West Cebu Estate’s 30-Year Milestone Fuels Expansion and Job Creation

Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates, a leading developer of smart and sustainable industrial-anchored developments in the Philippines, is celebrating a significant milestone as it marks the 30th anniversary of West Cebu Estate (WCE). This joint venture between the Aboitiz Group and Tsuneishi Holdings of Japan has evolved into a sprawling 540-hectare industrial-anchored mixed-use Economic Estate, positioning it as an ideal investment destination.

Throughout the years, WCE has played a pivotal role in transforming the shipbuilding industry, attracting renowned companies and generating employment opportunities for the local population. Now, with ambitious expansion plans, Aboitiz InfraCapital aims to further solidify WCE’s position as an economic powerhouse while prioritizing environmental sustainability and technological advancements.

A Legacy of Success

Since its inception as West Cebu Industrial Park, the partnership between the Aboitiz Group and Tsuneishi Holdings has achieved remarkable success. The establishment of Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu) in 1994, now one of the largest shipbuilding facilities in the Philippines, paved the way for further investments. In 2012, Austal, a leading Australian shipbuilder specializing in naval, government, and commercial vessels, also set up operations. Advance Catamaran Composites and Cebu Maritime Industry became esteemed locators in 2020 and 2022, respectively.

The addition of shipbuilding facilities expanded the estate’s capabilities, attracting a total of PHP 32 billion in investments from its locators. With 11 locators and 14,000 employees, West Cebu Estate has been a catalyst for countryside development, driving economic growth in Balamban and neighboring areas of Toledo and Asturias.

Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, President of Cebu Industrial Park Developers, Inc., and Head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates, expressed his pride in West Cebu Estate’s accomplishments.

“Over the past thirty years, West Cebu Estate has gone on to become what today is known as the shipbuilding capital of the Philippines. This 540-hectare industrial-anchored mixed-use Estate hosts some of the most well-known shipbuilding firms in the world and produces some of the largest and most sophisticated sea vessels that can be found anywhere in the world. It gives us great pride that what is produced here in Balamban goes on to be seen around the world, showcasing the skill and ingenuity of the Filipino labor force,” de Mesa said.

Aboitiz InfraCapital is dedicated to advancing West Cebu Estate’s environmental and sustainability initiatives. The estate’s transformation includes the construction of vertical garden structures, the transition to solar power, and the implementation of solid waste management solutions. Furthermore, efforts are underway to obtain BERDE-District Registration, ensuring alignment with global sustainability standards. By integrating smart technology and sustainability initiatives, Aboitiz InfraCapital envisions creating a next-generation, smart, and sustainable city within West Cebu Estate, enhancing the quality of life for its communities.

Ambitious Expansion Plans

The expansion project of 39-hectare at West Cebu Estate is backed by a substantial budget of PHP800 million allocated for this year’s development. It aims to diversify the locator mix and attract new sectors, such as light to medium manufacturing, while creating 16,000 additional job opportunities, thus significantly contributing to the economic growth of the region.

The expansion project includes the establishment of West Cebu Exchange, a commercial complex that will house food outlets, retail shops, basic services, a supermarket, and a transportation hub. This development aims to create a dynamic and interconnected commercial district within WCE.

“As we continue on our journey of becoming the Philippines’ first techglomerate, we remain committed to expanding and transforming West Cebu Estate and other economic estates into future-ready, master-planned developments,” emphasizes Cosette V. Canilao, President and CEO of Aboitiz InfraCapital.