Talisay signs MOA with land developer

CEBU, Philippines - Talisay City Mayor Socrates Fernandez yesterday morning signed a contract with a private developer which allows it to develop or reclaim about 100 hectares of the city's land area and municipal waters and convert this into future industrial or commercial sites.

The two parties, contractor Jute Development, Inc. was represented by its chairman Willy Te, both agreed that the project will boost not only the industrial and economic growth of the city but also the entire region.

"Whereas, industrial and economic growth not only to the City of Talisay but the region as well, will inevitably result from the development of submerged land, reclamation of foreshore land, and other areas deemed needed in relation to the development of the City of Talisay," read a portion of the memorandum of agreement.

The signing was witnessed by first district Rep. Eduardo R. Gullas.

Te's company, according to the MOA, "offers to develop" land and other areas and reclaim foreshore land covering an estimated area of 100 hectares "more or less" under the terms "most favorable and advantageous method" to the city.

And as agreed, Jute Development, Inc. will develop or reclaim portions of the city, which is based on the approved plan of the Community Environment and Natural Resources of the Land Management Bureau, at "no cost" on the part of the city government.

However, the 100 hectares, as also stipulated in the contract, will be developed or reclaimed on a "phase by phase basis" starting with an estimated 50 hectares, which is identified by the city assessor as "free areas" and "ready for development."

Gullas, in an interview, said part of the 100 hectares will be beside the newly-inaugurated fish port and its neighboring areas in barangay Tanke.

This area, he added, will be turned into an "economic zone," which will then become an income-generating district for the city.

Apart from the expected economic growth for Talisay coming from the influx of investors, Gullas also foresees possible employment opportunities for the residents.

The MOA stipulates that the city will get 20 percent of the net reclaimed or developed area, excluding the 15 percent sharing for roads and public plazas.

The first phase of the project is set to start within 180 days after the city council shall have ratified the contract and all necessary documents have been submitted. It is expected to be completed in 15 years' time. (THE FREEMAN)