The beautiful Calayab Beach in Ilocos Norte is about to get a big makeover, thanks to a huge project by Megaworld Corporation. This project, called Ilocandia Coastown, is going to cost PHP 15 billion and will make Laoag City a better place for tourists and locals. It’s all about creating a fun and sustainable community where people can live in style and businesses can grow. The project will cover 84 hectares and have a 1.4-kilometer beachfront, blending in with the sand dunes near Fort Ilocandia Hotel. Plus, it’s only 15 minutes away from Laoag International Airport, making it easy for everyone to get there.
A Big Boost for the Economy
Ilocandia Coastown isn’t just about building fancy buildings; it’s also about making the economy stronger. Soya Bueno, who’s in charge of promoting trade and investment in Ilocos Norte, talked about this in an interview. She said Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc has been a big supporter of bringing businesses to Ilocos Norte. His hard work has helped make this project possible.
This project will create lots of new jobs and opportunities for people to start their own businesses. As the township grows, local businesses will get a chance to shine, which will help people in the community have a better life. More jobs and more tourists mean the economy will get a long-term boost.
Kevin Tan, the CEO of Alliance Global Group (Megaworld’s parent company), is really excited about this project. He believes in the potential of Ilocos Norte and thinks it can become a great place for people to live, work, and visit. He wants to show off the area’s rich culture and beautiful nature. He’s committed to making this vision a reality in the next ten years.
To put things in perspective, consider the economic impact similar projects have had in other regions. For example, the development of resort areas in Cebu has led to a significant increase in tourism revenue, boosting local businesses and creating employment opportunities. According to a report by the Philippine Statistics Authority, tourism contributed 12.7% to the Philippines’ GDP in 2019. Ilocandia Coastown aims to replicate this success by attracting both local and international tourists, thereby increasing revenue and improving the local economy.
Helpful Laws and Money Perks
One of the reasons Ilocandia Coastown is so appealing is the updated Ilocos Norte Investment Code. This code gives businesses that invest at least PHP 5 million a discount of up to 50% on their real property taxes. Also, if a company hires mostly people from Ilocos Norte (at least 80%), they don’t have to pay governor’s permit fees for five years.
These laws show that the local government wants to make it easy for businesses to invest in the area. By making it cheaper for companies to operate, Ilocos Norte is creating an environment where businesses can grow and thrive. This teamwork between the government and businesses will help the region reach its long-term development goals.
The local government is also investing in infrastructure improvements to support the development. A recent report from the Department of Budget and Management shows that Ilocos Norte has been allocated funds for road improvements and other infrastructure projects to ensure that the area is ready for the influx of tourists and residents. This proactive approach to infrastructure development ensures that Ilocandia Coastown will have the necessary support to thrive.
Building a Community and Celebrating Culture
Ilocandia Coastown is more than just buildings and money; it’s about creating a community that values culture and takes care of the environment. By including local traditions and making sure everyone feels like they belong, this development wants to attract people of all ages, including families, retirees, and tourists.
The project will have parks, community centers, and cultural landmarks where people can hang out and get to know each other. For example, there will be areas where local artists can sell their crafts, and public spaces where cultural festivals can be held to celebrate the heritage of Ilocos. These kinds of activities help people feel connected and proud of their culture.
The placement of shops within the township will also help bring the community together. There will be a lively shopping area with local businesses, as well as a big commercial center for all kinds of needs. This design makes Ilocandia Coastown more than just a place to live; it will be a busy and exciting place to be.
The project also includes initiatives to integrate local culture into the design and functionality of the township. For example, the developers are working with local artisans to incorporate traditional Ilocano designs and materials into the buildings and public spaces. This not only preserves the cultural heritage of the region but also creates a unique and authentic experience for residents and visitors. Additionally, the township plans to host regular cultural events and festivals to celebrate local traditions and foster a sense of community.
Thinking Long-Term and Staying Green
Ilocandia Coastown is designed to be sustainable and environmentally friendly. This means the project is not just about making money but also about taking care of the environment, being fair to everyone, and preserving the local culture.
The economic benefits of this development should support environmentally friendly practices. The project can include things like using renewable energy, reducing waste, and saving water. There can also be educational programs to teach people about the importance of protecting the natural beauty of Calayab Beach and its surroundings.
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The developers are also exploring innovative technologies to minimize the environmental impact of the township. For example, they are considering implementing a smart grid system to optimize energy consumption, using rainwater harvesting to reduce water usage, and incorporating green building materials to minimize the carbon footprint of the buildings. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to creating a sustainable and environmentally responsible community.
What’s Next for Ilocandia Coastown
Ilocandia Coastown is bringing positive change to Laoag City. Megaworld Corporation wants to make the region better by combining luxurious living with amazing beachfront experiences. The local government supports this project, which will hopefully bring more tourism and investment to Ilocos Norte.
This project can significantly improve not only the economic landscape but facilitate better infrastructure, and facilities for local residents and visitors as well.
As Ilocandia Coastown takes shape, it will bring lasting benefits to the people who live there and the tourists who visit. By making the area’s economy stronger and promoting culture and environmental sustainability, this development is set to create a thriving community where people can enjoy a good quality of life and a strong economy.
Consider the potential for Ilocandia Coastown to become a model for sustainable tourism development in the Philippines. By prioritizing environmental protection, cultural preservation, and community engagement, the township can attract a new generation of travelers who are looking for authentic and responsible travel experiences. This can position Ilocos Norte as a leading destination for sustainable tourism, attracting both local and international visitors and generating long-term economic benefits for the region.
Want to Know More? Some Common Questions
What exactly is the Ilocandia Coastown project?
Ilocandia Coastown is an ambitious project by Megaworld Corporation to build a township in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. It aims to offer luxury homes, a shopping district, and a commercial hub, all located along a stunning beachfront.
How much is Megaworld putting into this project?
Megaworld Corporation is investing a large sum of PHP 15 billion to develop Ilocandia Coastown.
What kind of help can businesses get from the Ilocos Norte Investment Code?
The updated Ilocos Norte Investment Code offers businesses a discount of up to 50% on their real property taxes. They can also avoid paying governor’s permit fees for five years if they mainly hire local residents.
When should we expect the project to be finished?
The Ilocandia Coastown project is expected to take about ten years to complete, with all parts of the township being fully developed during that time.
What types of businesses will do well in Ilocandia Coastown?
The development will be a hub for many different businesses, including hotels, shops, restaurants, and local craftspeople. This will create numerous job and business opportunities for locals and attract tourists.
Where Did This Information Come From?
- Megaworld Corporation
- Ilocos Norte Trade and Investment Promotions Office
- Alliance Global Group
- Philippine News Agency
- Philippine Statistics Authority
- Department of Budget and Management
I hope this helps you understand how the Ilocandia Coastown project is set to transform Laoag City and boost Ilocos Norte’s economy, cultural preservation, and sustainability. The goal is to make it inclusive for all and it will greatly benefit the local economy.
Ready to be a part of Ilocos Norte’s bright future? Explore investment opportunities in Ilocandia Coastown and join us in creating a thriving community that celebrates culture and sustainability! Let’s build a vibrant tomorrow, together!
