QC developing into commercial hub

The potential of Quezon City as a commercial hub in Metro Manila is being bolstered by the private sector, which is now initiating major infrastructure projects in the city.

Tomasito Cruz, Quezon City Planning and Development officer, reported to Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. that the construction of at least six major infrastructure projects in various parts of the city are underway.

Cruz said these include the Ayala-initiated 200,000 square-meter mall North Triangle Commercial Center; the Megaworld’s construction of 17 residential towers within the Araneta Center in Cubao; construction of a 70,000 square-meter office development in Eastwood Cyber Park in Libis for business outsourcing and IT locators; and the development of a P15-billion mass transport-based residential project, called Manhattan Garden.

The SM Group has also launched its condominium complex interconnected to SM Centerpoint and the MRT station at the corner of Aurora Boulevard and Araneta Avenue.

Belmonte said the biggest infrastructure project in Quezon City would be the future development of the University of the Philippines in Diliman to be undertaken by Ayala Corp.

The mayor said he also foresees the rise of high-rise buildings in the Fairview area, pioneered by the SM Group.

Nathan Zulueta, chairman of the Quezon City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation Inc., noted that there is no stopping the city’s ascent toward progress and prosperity.

"Because of the business friendly atmosphere, almost all the taipans are expanding their businesses in the city. Even the old rich are reviving their businesses in Quezon City," he said.