CEBU, long recognized as one of the Philippines’ most dynamic economic hubs, is seeing significant growth fueled by the continued investments of homegrown companies like the BE Group of Companies.
A leading player in real estate, hospitality and manufacturing, among others, the BE Group is reshaping the island’s business landscape while creating new opportunities for both local and international investors to thrive.
Founded with a deep understanding of Cebu’s evolving market dynamics, the BE Group has consistently made strategic investments that align with Cebu and other neighboring island’s potential. From developing residential communities to expanding its footprint in the hospitality and commercial sectors, the company’s ventures are becoming central to Cebu’s growth trajectory.
Established in 2009, Mabuhay Cement has become a key player in the Visayas and Mindanao (VisMin) markets, driven by the family’s vision and the region’s rapid urbanization. Focused on addressing domestic needs, the company is expanding operations and preparing for sustainable growth. Plans include introducing eco-friendly “green cement,” upgrading facilities and adopting carbon-reducing technologies. Investments in logistics, partnerships and acquisitions aim to strengthen its presence and support VisMin’s development.
Founded in 1981, BE Group’s BerbenWood has grown from a lumber and plywood trader into a globally recognized furniture exporter. Initially focused on wood moldings, doors and garden furniture, it now produces versatile, high-quality pieces primarily for the US, with exports to Europe and Asia. Nearly 100 percent of its output is for export. Committed to sustainability, BerbenWood uses responsibly sourced lumber, repurposes waste and prioritizes eco-friendly materials. It invests in machinery, trends and client collaboration to stay competitive.
The BE Group entered the hospitality sector in 2010 with BE Resort Mactan, capitalizing on Cebu’s booming tourism. In 2015, it expanded its footprint to Bohol with BE Grand Resort-Bohol. Now a trusted name in the industry, BE Hotels and Resorts is charting further growth with projects like BE Siargao (2027), AC Hotels by Marriott in Cebu (2029), BE Pods Alona (2026) and BE Grand’s expansion (2027).
Committed to staying ahead of trends and promoting sustainability, BE Hotels and Resorts continually adapt its offerings to meet the evolving preferences of tourists, integrates solar panels, promotes farm-to-table dining and adopts green technologies. It leads in eco-friendly initiatives, such as zero-water discharge systems, refillable amenities and waste reduction, ensuring an environmentally conscious guest experience.
Founded in 2015, Mabuhay Towers has established itself in Cebu’s competitive office leasing industry with prime properties in Cebu IT Park and Cebu Business Park. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic challenges, it maintained high occupancy, avoiding instability by excluding Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators. Its success is credited to a diverse tenant mix and co-working space providers.
To meet the growing demand for flexible workspaces, Mabuhay Towers is investing in warm shell options, adaptable spaces and sustainability. Key features include curtain glass facades for natural lighting, double-pane glazing for insulation, LED lighting and inverter air conditioning. Ceiling heights are optimized for a sense of openness and upgrades of water-efficient fixtures have been introduced. The firm’s plans include installations of solar power and EV charging stations, aligning with global environmental standards and modern tenant needs.
Established in June 2018, BE Residences has quickly gained traction in real estate by leveraging its landbank and expertise in manufacturing, design and hospitality. Entering during Cebu’s condo boom, BE Residences aligns with the rising demand for prime living spaces.
Its portfolio spans luxury projects for Cebuanos and mid-range developments under Balai and BE U brands, catering to young professionals and families. Plans include horizontal housing for the affordable and mid-range market and large-scale master-planned communities in Cordova, Mactan and Panglao, Bohol. BE Residences set itself apart by offering innovative multi-storey units like BE Residences’ “Maisonettes,” and “CondoVision,” and Balai’s “Yarden.” BE Residences embraces market trends through digitalization, flexible financing options and BE Lockers for storage solutions. Committed to sustainability, it integrates green architecture, smart technologies and green building certifications, ensuring efficiency and eco-friendly living.
Founded in 2019, Berben Logistics Inc. is expanding into cold storage to meet rising demand in food logistics, e-commerce and pharmaceuticals. Recently inaugurating a cold storage warehouse, the company aims to strengthen its position in the Philippine cold chain industry. With plans to invest in energy-efficient systems, automation and artificial intelligence, Berben Logistics will expand to Metro Manila, Davao and Iloilo over the over the next five to 10 years, supporting scalable, sustainable cold chain solutions and last-mile delivery.
In 2020, amid the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, the BE Group expanded its portfolio by launching Living Ideas, a brand dedicated to interior fit-outs for commercial, residential and retail spaces. With a focus on export-quality, custom-made furniture and home furnishings, the venture has redefined how people view their homes—not just as living spaces, but as multifunctional environments for recreation, work, rest and more.
Living Ideas leverages the BE Group’s three decades of expertise in crafting high-quality furniture for the global market. This heritage of excellence allows the brand to deliver products that seamlessly combine artistry, functionality and innovation. Unlike the offerings in the mainstream local market, Living Ideas stands out by producing pieces that are not only aesthetically pleasing and unique but also highly practical.
In 2024, Enrison Holdings Inc. launched BE@Work, its co-working space business, leveraging existing office buildings. First piloted at BE Residences Lahug, BE@Work is set to expand to Mabuhay Tower Cebu Business Park in 2025, catering to start-ups and digital nomads with high-speed connectivity and collaborative environments.
The company plans to include integrating BE@Work into master-planned developments, featuring meeting rooms, pantries and rest areas. Aligned with its sustainability goals, operations will adopt eco-friendly practices from Mabuhay Towers and BE Residences, reinforcing Enrison Holdings’ commitment to innovative, sustainable workspaces.