To steer Cli’s next growth phase: Soberano names Franco as new CEO

CEBU, Philippines — Publicly-listed property developer Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) has named chief operating officer Jose Franco Soberano as its next president and chief executive officer, as the company positions itself for a new phase of growth backed by a P300-billion project pipeline and expanding national footprint.

CLI chairman and chief executive officer Jose Soberano III announced during the company’s stockholders meeting held at Radisson Red Hotel in A.S. Fortuna, Mandaue City, that Franco, currently senior executive vice president and COO, is being prepared to succeed him as president and CEO.

Soberano said the leadership transition has been planned as part of the company’s long-term strategy to ensure continuity as CLI evolves from a regional developer into a national real estate player.

“I will continue to provide strategic direction and stewardship for the organization as executive chairman, while Franco and our leadership team carry forward the mission, values and commitment to service that will guide CLI in its next phase of growth and innovation,” Soberano said.

The succession announcement comes as CLI reported strong operating performance in 2025 and outlined plans supported by an existing land bank capable of generating about P300 billion in project value over the next seven to eight years.

The company posted P24.6 billion in reservation sales in 2025 and maintained a 91-percent sellout rate across its residential developments, underscoring sustained demand in its core Visayas and Mindanao markets.

CLI has also been expanding beyond its traditional markets, securing its first development site in Pasig City and a 70-hectare property in Cavite earmarked for a future township project. The company likewise acquired about 80 hectares in Liloan, Cebu to strengthen its land bank for future integrated community developments.

Beyond financial performance, CLI highlighted its economic contribution to communities where it operates.

In 2025, the company generated P18.52 billion in direct economic value and supported more than 10,500 direct and indirect jobs across its projects and business operations.

The developer said it continues to prioritize local procurement, with 99 percent of its purchasing spend directed to domestic suppliers, supporting contractors, workers, micro, small and medium enterprises, and local communities.

CLI also underscored its role in addressing the country’s housing shortage.

Since 2015, the company has delivered more than 20,600 socialized and economic housing units across the Visayas and Mindanao, providing affordable housing options for Filipino families.

As part of efforts to strengthen corporate governance, CLI also appointed two new independent directors— Eugene S. Acevedo and esteemed economist Dr. Winston Conrad B. Padojinog —to its board in 2025.

From its Cebu roots, CLI has grown into one of the largest developers in the Visayas and Mindanao, with operations in 21 cities and a portfolio of more than 132 projects spanning residential, office, hospitality, mixed-use and master-planned community developments. — (FREEMAN)