TO AVOID delays in boosting tourism and economic activities in Lapu-Lapu City, Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan has said he will be pushing for the construction of 70 hectares out of the 103-hectare reclamation project in Barangay Canjulao.
The local executive said on March 27, 2023, that they would no longer wait for the remaining 33 hectares to be secured with supporting documents before they could start construction works.
“For me, I decided that we will talk to the proponent to proceed with areas that are fully compliant with the requirements so that we can start the reclamation project,” Chan said, stressing that they will just do it phase by phase instead.
Apart from that, Chan said they will also proceed with the 100-hectare reclamation project in Barangay Punta Engaño since all the necessary requirements have already been complied with.
The mayor said the two reclamation projects are intended for mixed-use purposes, including tourism and commercial activities.
Chan said the city has “very limited space,” and the completion of reclamation projects can help expand its economic activities with the establishment of commercial districts and industrial areas, as well as resorts and entertainment hubs.
He said the reclamation projects are under a private-public partnership scheme. While the projects would not cost the city, Chan disclosed that the city government is expected to get a share of 52 percent of the soon-to-be-reclaimed properties, while the remaining 48 percent goes to the contractor.
The mayor did not say if the City will get a revenue share of 52 percent for each reclamation project or for the two projects.
Chan said the reclamation projects will have a huge impact on the city since they will provide employment opportunities for the residents and add revenues to the city.
The reclamation project in Barangay Canjulao is located in Sitio Turil while the other project is located in Sitio Calipayan in Barangay Punta Engaño.