Cebu Property, Commercial, Investment Insights, Market Trends & Insights, New Developments

Cebu’s Infrastructure Boom: Catalyzing Growth and Investment

Cebu’s infrastructure is rapidly evolving, creating a solid foundation for sustained economic growth and real estate expansion. From groundbreaking transportation projects to essential utility upgrades, Cebu is positioning itself as a top-tier destination for investors, businesses, and residents. In this blog, we’ll dive into the key infrastructure developments, both existing and upcoming, that are transforming Cebu into a hub of growth and development. Whether you’re looking to invest in real estate or move to a city with massive growth potential, Cebu’s infrastructure offers opportunities for all.

Commercial and Business Infrastructure

1. Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA)

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) is a key hub for travel and trade in the Visayas region. Its Terminal 2, which opened in 2018, significantly expanded the airport’s capacity, accommodating an additional 8 million passengers annually. Designed to cater to both international and domestic flights, it showcases Filipino-inspired architecture with modern amenities, earning it global recognition for its design and operational efficiency.

  • Key Features: MCIA’s Terminal 2 is primarily for international travel and features world-class amenities, including spacious waiting areas, duty-free shops, and dining options. The use of sustainable materials and innovative design concepts, like its timber arches, are standout elements. Terminal 1 was renovated for domestic flights, ensuring smoother transitions for travelers.
  • Economic Impact: As the second busiest airport in the Philippines, MCIA has become a major driver for Cebu’s tourism and business sectors. Its expanded capacity has led to increased international flights, boosting Cebu’s role as a key travel and business hub in Southeast Asia. The airport also plays a significant role in logistics, helping businesses import and export goods faster and more efficiently.
  • Real Estate Influence: The airport’s expansion has spurred real estate growth in Mactan and Lapu-Lapu City. Several residential and commercial projects have been developed to cater to tourists, business travelers, and expatriates, particularly within the Mactan area. Properties near the airport, including luxury condos and resorts, have seen a rise in demand due to the ease of access for international travelers.

Enhanced global connectivity, increased tourism, and a robust boost to Mactan’s real estate market, especially for properties geared towards hospitality and residential living.

 

2. South Road Properties (SRP)

The South Road Properties (SRP) is a 300-hectare reclaimed development located along Cebu’s southern coastline. Envisioned as a commercial, residential, and industrial hub, SRP is one of Cebu’s most ambitious projects, hosting landmark developments such as SM Seaside City, Nustar Resort and Casino, and City di Mare. The area is now home to some of the largest mixed-use developments, offering endless opportunities for both business and leisure.

  • Key Features: SRP is a prime location for real estate investments, with large parcels of land available for commercial, residential, and government projects. Major attractions include the SM Seaside Mall, one of the largest in the Philippines, and Nustar Resort and Casino, a world-class entertainment complex. The area is connected to major roads and is close to key points like Cebu Business Park and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), further boosting its accessibility.
  • Economic Impact: SRP is designed to attract investors by offering prime locations for retail, commercial, and residential projects. The developments within SRP have already started to boost Cebu’s economy by creating jobs, increasing tourism, and attracting foreign investments. The ongoing construction of the Cebu City Hall at SRP also solidifies its importance as a new government and commercial center.
  • Real Estate Influence: Properties in and around SRP are highly sought after, thanks to its strategic location and world-class facilities. Residential condominiums, office towers, and commercial spaces are being developed at a rapid pace. Investors are particularly attracted to the area because of its long-term growth prospects, making SRP a real estate hotspot in Cebu.

SRP is poised to become Cebu’s next central business district, offering a mix of residential, commercial, and leisure opportunities. Its strategic location and developments have already made it a key player in Cebu’s economic and real estate growth.

 

3. Cebu Business Park

The Cebu Business Park (CBP) is a premier mixed-use development and Cebu’s central business district (CBD), designed to cater to the region’s growing commercial and residential demands. Developed by Ayala Land, it spans 50 hectares and is home to corporate offices, retail centers, hotels, and high-end residential condominiums. The crown jewel of the area is Ayala Center Cebu, one of the largest shopping malls in the Visayas.

  • Key Features: CBP offers modern office spaces, residential condos, and commercial spaces. The area houses multinational companies, BPO centers, luxury hotels, and high-end residential projects. Ayala Center Cebu provides residents and workers with access to shopping, dining, and entertainment, making CBP a live-work-play destination.
  • Economic Impact: CBP serves as Cebu’s financial and commercial hub, attracting both local and foreign companies. The presence of corporate offices, particularly in the BPO and finance sectors, has created thousands of jobs, driving demand for housing and boosting Cebu’s real estate market. CBP also hosts regional headquarters for major corporations, making it a strategic location for business operations in the Visayas and Mindanao.
  • Real Estate Influence: The demand for residential and commercial properties within CBP continues to rise due to its proximity to top business centers, amenities, and recreational facilities. Properties in the area, including luxury condos like, Lucima, Solinea Residences, Avalon, The Alcoves and Park Point Residences, are popular among professionals and expatriates looking for a prestigious address in Cebu.

Cebu Business Park continues to be a driving force behind Cebu’s economic and real estate growth, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle with modern conveniences. Its strategic location, coupled with world-class amenities, ensures that CBP remains a top choice for businesses and residents alike.

 

4. IT Park Cebu

Cebu IT Park is a bustling business district that plays a vital role in Cebu’s growing reputation as a technology and outsourcing hub. This 24-hectare master-planned development is home to some of the world’s largest BPO companies, as well as tech startups, commercial establishments, and modern residential developments. It offers a balanced environment that supports work, leisure, and modern living.

  • Key Features: IT Park offers a highly urbanized setting, featuring high-rise buildings, hotels, dining options, and parks. It is a hub for business process outsourcing (BPO) and IT services, housing major companies such as Accenture, Convergys, and Teleperformance. Its strategic location and dynamic environment make it one of Cebu’s most desirable work locations.
  • Economic Impact: IT Park has become a driving force in Cebu’s economic growth, particularly in the BPO and tech sectors. It attracts thousands of professionals who work for multinational corporations, increasing the demand for residential properties, retail spaces, and leisure establishments. The park significantly contributes to employment and investment in Cebu’s business landscape.
  • Real Estate Influence: Residential projects such as Avida Towers Riala, 38Park Avenue, and Be Residences Lahug offer modern living spaces within the park, catering to the needs of professionals working in the area. IT Park’s real estate market is booming, with properties highly sought after due to their proximity to business establishments, dining, and entertainment options.

Cebu IT Park is a cornerstone of Cebu’s business ecosystem, seamlessly blending the professional and personal needs of its residents and workers. Its vibrant environment, combined with the presence of global companies, continues to attract real estate investors and professionals alike.

 

5. Cebu North Reclamation Area (NRA)

The Cebu North Reclamation Area (NRA) in Mandaue City is a key urban development zone. Spanning over 330 hectares, it houses various commercial, medical, and educational landmarks, shaping it into a mixed-use urban center.

  • Key Features: The NRA includes prominent establishments such as Cebu Doctors University, Chong Hua Hospital Mandaue, UCMed, S&R Shopping, and North Drive Mall. These facilities make the NRA a hub for healthcare, education, and shopping, supporting Mandaue City’s growing population.
  • Economic Impact: This area plays a significant role in Cebu’s economy, particularly through shipping and trade, as it’s close to the Port of Cebu. It has attracted investments from various sectors, including retail, healthcare, and education, creating jobs and fostering local economic growth.
  • Real Estate Influence: The NRA has seen a rise in real estate developments, particularly residential and mixed-use projects such as Mandani Bay, which offers upscale living and commercial spaces near the waterfront. This has transformed the NRA into a modern, thriving district with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas.

The NRA’s strategic location and infrastructure have made it an important zone for Mandaue City’s growth. Its mix of healthcare, educational institutions, and commercial establishments, combined with increasing real estate developments, ensures that the area will continue to be a key driver of the region’s economy.

 

6. Gatewalk Central, Mandaue City

Gatewalk Central is a 17.5-hectare mixed-use development located in the heart of Mandaue City, a joint venture between Ayala Land and AboitizLand. Designed as a vibrant urban district, it features residential towers, office spaces, a lifestyle mall, and entertainment venues. Gatewalk Central is poised to become a prime business and lifestyle hub, with its strategic location offering easy access to major transport routes, including the North Reclamation Area. It will seamlessly integrate work, leisure, and residential spaces, driving urban growth in Mandaue.

As a central part of Mandaue’s modernization, Gatewalk Central offers significant opportunities for investors and residents seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle, contributing to the city’s evolving landscape and economic growth.

 

Utilities and Essential Services in Cebu

1. Electricity Infrastructure

Cebu’s growing energy demand is met by several key players in the electricity sector. The island is primarily powered by Visayan Electric, the second-largest electric distribution utility in the Philippines, covering Metro Cebu and its surrounding areas.

  • Visayan Electric serves around 1.73 million people and supports industries and commercial establishments in Cebu, Talisay, Naga, and other nearby towns. The increasing demand for electricity, expected to grow by 7% annually until 2040, has led to major improvements in supply stability .
  • Therma Visayas, Inc., owned by Aboitiz Power Corporation, operates a 340MW coal-fired power plant in Toledo City, which is one of the largest power sources for the province. This plant uses state-of-the-art technology to minimize environmental impact while delivering reliable power.
  • Renewable Energy: Cebu has seen substantial investments in solar power. For example, the 150MW solar power plant by ACCIONA Energía is set to rise in Daanbantayan, northern Cebu. This renewable energy project aims to reduce dependence on traditional power sources and create a more sustainable energy future for the island​.
  • BESS Projects: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) projects are also in the works, offering alternative and more efficient ways to store and distribute energy, especially during peak hours and in times of outages.

A robust and diverse energy infrastructure ensures that Cebu can meet its growing industrial and residential power needs while also making strides towards sustainability through renewable energy investments.


2. Water Supply Infrastructure

The water supply in Cebu is primarily managed by the Metro Cebu Water District (MCWD), which serves over 2 million residents. As the population grows and demand rises, there have been significant efforts to improve the region’s water infrastructure, addressing water scarcity in some areas.

  • Metro Cebu Water District (MCWD) supplies around 238,000 cubic meters of water daily, sourced from surface water, groundwater wells, and bulk water suppliers.
  • To mitigate the city’s periodic water shortages, MCWD has embarked on developing desalination plants. These plants, utilizing seawater as a resource, are expected to produce an additional 20,000 cubic meters of water per day by 2025, helping ensure a more stable water supply.
  • Bulk Water Supply Projects: Collaborations with private sectors are underway to provide bulk water supply systems, improving distribution in underserved areas. This includes agreements with bulk water providers in Carmen, which already contribute around 35,000 cubic meters of water daily.

Cebu’s water infrastructure is improving through desalination projects and bulk water agreements, ensuring that new residential and commercial developments can sustain long-term water usage.


3. Internet and Telecommunications Infrastructure

As a growing business and tech hub, Cebu requires modern and reliable telecommunications infrastructure. Key providers such as PLDT, Globe Telecom, and Converge ICT have been expanding their services to meet the growing demand for high-speed internet and mobile services.

  • PLDT and Globe have continued to expand their fiber-optic networks, providing high-speed internet to both urban and suburban areas of Cebu. These improvements make Cebu one of the best-connected regions in the country, essential for businesses, BPOs, and residential customers.
  • Converge ICT has made its mark by offering affordable, reliable high-speed internet, particularly targeting underserved regions of Cebu and the rest of Visayas. As of 2024, Converge’s expansion plans continue to roll out fiber connectivity to even more areas.
  • 5G Networks: Both PLDT and Globe have also rolled out 5G networks across major parts of Cebu, further enhancing the city’s capacity for tech businesses, startups, and remote workers who rely on fast, reliable connections.

Cebu’s comprehensive internet infrastructure is positioning the island as a prime destination for tech companies and digital nomads, ensuring businesses and residents enjoy high-speed connectivity.

 

Transportation Infrastructure in Cebu

1. Cebu BRT (Bus Rapid Transit)

The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a key public transport project designed to address Cebu City’s traffic congestion. The system will feature a dedicated bus lane stretching across the city’s main thoroughfares, providing an efficient and reliable transportation option for commuters.

  • Phase 1 of the BRT will cover around 13 kilometers from N. Bacalso Avenue to South Road Properties (SRP), benefiting commuters traveling between northern and southern parts of the city.
  • The full system will eventually cover 23 kilometers with multiple lines and 17 stations, aiming to serve around 160,000 passengers daily.

The Cebu BRT is expected to greatly reduce travel times and ease congestion on major roads, providing a fast, reliable, and environmentally friendly alternative for commuters in the metro.


2. Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX)

The Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), opened in 2022, is one of Cebu’s most significant infrastructure achievements. Stretching 8.9 kilometers, it connects Cebu City to Mactan Island via Cordova, alleviating traffic pressure on the Marcelo Fernan Bridge and Mactan-Mandaue Bridge.

  • Direct Access: CCLEX provides a direct route for vehicles traveling to and from Mactan-Cebu International Airport and major resorts, making it easier for tourists and residents alike.
  • Boost to Trade: The expressway facilitates better logistics and trade routes between Cebu’s industrial hubs and export zones in Mactan.

CCLEX significantly reduces travel time between Cebu City and Mactan Island, promoting smoother connectivity and bolstering tourism, trade, and real estate development along its route.


3. Cebu Monorail System

The Cebu Monorail is an ambitious public transport project designed to ease congestion and modernize the city’s transportation infrastructure. Spanning 17 kilometers, the system will link key areas of Metro Cebu, including the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, and Talisay.

  • Capacity: The monorail system will serve thousands of passengers daily, significantly alleviating traffic congestion on major roads.
  • Route: The first phase will connect Cebu City Hall to Mandaue, with expansions planned to reach Talisay and other urban centers.

The Cebu Monorail will create faster, more efficient transportation options for commuters while helping reduce carbon emissions, making it a more sustainable mode of transportation.


4. Metro Cebu Expressway

The Metro Cebu Expressway is a vital road project aimed at decongesting Cebu’s main arteries. The expressway will span 74 kilometers, connecting Naga City in the south to Danao City in the north, bypassing the congested city center.

  • Three Phases: The expressway will be built in three phases, with key segments expected to open few years from now.
  • Faster Travel: The expressway is expected to reduce travel time between northern and southern Cebu by up to 50%, making it more convenient for commuters and businesses.

Once complete, the expressway will drastically reduce traffic congestion and open up more areas for real estate and commercial development in northern and southern Cebu.


5. Fourth Cebu-Mactan Bridge

The upcoming Fourth Cebu-Mactan Bridge is a crucial infrastructure project aimed at addressing the growing traffic between Cebu and Mactan Island. This new bridge will connect Mandaue City with Lapu-Lapu City, easing congestion on the existing three bridges. This new bridge will feature a 4.9-kilometer coastal road serving as a bypass in Mandaue, helping to reduce traffic congestion in the area. It aims to support the rapidly growing urban areas and improve the commuting experience between the two cities.

  • Length: The bridge will span around 3.3 kilometers.
  • Multi-Lane Configuration: It will feature multiple lanes for cars and trucks, as well as a lane for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Completion: The project is expected to be completed by 2028.

This new bridge will relieve traffic congestion, especially for commuters heading to Mactan-Cebu International Airport and resort areas, while spurring real estate developments on both sides of the bridge.


6. Cebu-Bohol Bridge

The Cebu-Bohol Bridge is a proposed infrastructure project aimed at connecting Cordova in Cebu with Getafe in Bohol. This 24-kilometer bridge, when completed, will facilitate better trade, tourism, and connectivity between the two islands.

  • Inter-Island Connectivity: This bridge will create a direct land route between the provinces of Cebu and Bohol, greatly reducing travel time and logistical costs.
  • Economic Boost: The bridge is expected to stimulate economic activity and real estate investment on both islands.

The Cebu-Bohol Bridge will open up new opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment, connecting Cebu’s growing economy with Bohol’s emerging market.

Waste Management and Sustainability Initiatives

Waste management in Cebu is primarily handled by local government units (LGUs), with various initiatives aimed at improving sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of waste. The growing population and industrial activities in Cebu have necessitated comprehensive waste management systems, which include garbage collection, segregation, and the promotion of recycling and sustainability programs.


Waste Collection and Segregation

Cebu City and other municipalities like Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu City have implemented waste collection systems, ensuring regular pickup of household and commercial waste. Waste is typically segregated into biodegradable, recyclable, and non-biodegradable categories, as mandated by local ordinances.

Key Features:

  • Segregation at Source: Residents are required to separate their waste into categories, ensuring that materials like plastic, paper, and glass are set aside for recycling.
  • Collection Schedule: Different municipalities have specific days for collecting biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste.
  • Penalties for Non-Compliance: Some LGUs impose fines for improper waste segregation or dumping.

Proper segregation helps reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills and promotes recycling, leading to a cleaner environment and better waste management outcomes.


Recycling Programs

Various recycling programs are in place across Cebu to encourage residents and businesses to participate in reducing waste. Cebu has materials recovery facilities (MRFs) that process recyclable waste into reusable materials, helping cut down on landfill use and encouraging a circular economy.

  • Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs): Located in different barangays, these facilities collect recyclable materials such as plastic, metal, and glass to repurpose them into new products.
  • Eco-friendly Partnerships: Some private companies collaborate with the government to promote recycling, such as programs that reward residents for turning in recyclable items.
  • Educational Campaigns: LGUs run campaigns to educate the public about the importance of recycling, including school programs that teach children about sustainable practices.

Recycling programs contribute to reducing waste, reusing valuable resources, and minimizing the ecological footprint of Cebu’s growing population.


Landfills and Waste Disposal Sites

The waste collected from households and businesses is transported to sanitary landfills for disposal. Cebu City uses the Inayawan Landfill, although it has been controversial due to its environmental impact. Other towns and cities have their own landfills or are part of inter-local cooperation for solid waste disposal.

  • Sanitary Landfills: Waste is properly managed at these sites to prevent environmental contamination. Cebu is exploring alternatives such as waste-to-energy (WTE) projects to minimize landfill use.
  • Waste-to-Energy (WTE) Initiatives: Cebu is looking into waste-to-energy technologies, which convert waste materials into usable energy. This can help reduce the volume of waste while providing renewable energy for the city.

Proper waste disposal is crucial for maintaining a clean and sustainable environment in Cebu. As landfills approach capacity, alternative methods such as WTE provide long-term solutions to waste management challenges.


Green Initiatives and Sustainability Projects

The Cebu City government, together with private and non-profit organizations, has launched various green initiatives aimed at addressing environmental concerns, including waste reduction, recycling, and the promotion of sustainable practices.

  • Eco-friendly Business Certification: Businesses that meet specific environmental standards can receive certifications, promoting eco-conscious operations.
  • Barangay Clean-Up Drives: Local barangays organize community clean-ups to reduce littering and promote environmental responsibility.
  • Plastic-Free Campaigns: Cebu has launched campaigns to reduce the use of single-use plastics, encouraging alternatives like reusable bags and containers.

Green initiatives help create a culture of sustainability in Cebu, promoting environmentally responsible behavior among businesses and residents while protecting the city’s natural resources.

 

Infrastructure’s Impact on Cebu’s Real Estate Market

Cebu’s rapidly expanding infrastructure is not only reshaping the island’s landscape but also transforming its real estate market. As transportation networks, utilities, and public services continue to develop, previously untapped areas are now turning into prime real estate hotspots. From new roads and bridges to bustling business hubs, Cebu’s infrastructure is opening fresh opportunities for residential and commercial investments.

Transportation Driving Growth : The Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and the upcoming 4th Cebu-Mactan Bridge are reducing travel times, making areas like Mactan Island and Cordova highly attractive for investors. Meanwhile, the ongoing construction of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and Metro Cebu Expressway is expected to decongest urban centers and increase property values in the surrounding suburban areas.

Commercial Hubs Leading the Way : With developments like South Road Properties (SRP) transforming into major commercial and lifestyle centers, the demand for office spaces, retail establishments, and upscale residences is skyrocketing. Key business hubs such as Cebu Business Park, IT Park, and the North Reclamation Area are attracting corporations and driving the need for nearby residential and commercial properties.

Utilities Enhancing Development : Modernizing Cebu’s utilities, including electricity, water, and internet services, ensures that new developments can meet the demands of the island’s growing population. These essential services create a strong foundation for residential and commercial growth, making Cebu an attractive place for sustainable investments.

Tourism Boosting Real Estate: Cebu’s booming tourism sector, supported by infrastructures like Mactan-Cebu International Airport and integrated resort developments, fuels demand for vacation homes, hotels, and hospitality investments. Upcoming projects like the Cebu-Cordova-Bohol Bridge will further strengthen Cebu as a prime tourist destination, encouraging more real estate growth.

Cebu’s infrastructure boom is unlocking significant real estate investment potential. Whether it’s luxurious condos at SRP or new suburban homes near transportation routes, Cebu’s development is creating high-value opportunities. Now is the perfect time to invest and secure a prime location in this rapidly modernizing island.

Your Real Estate Journey Starts Here
Cebu is on the brink of an unprecedented transformation, and its infrastructure projects are laying the groundwork for long-term economic prosperity. If you’re looking to capitalize on Cebu’s growth and invest in prime real estate, Cebu Property Buzz is your go-to partner. With our in-depth knowledge of Cebu’s evolving property landscape, we’re here to help you find the perfect investment—whether it’s a residential home, commercial space, or vacation property.

Visit us at Cebu Property Buzz today to explore the best opportunities and secure your place in Cebu’s promising future.