Iloilo Reclamation Project Shelved: What It Means for City Development and Property Investors

A proposed ₱18.27-billion, 662-hectare “island-type” reclamation project in Iloilo City has officially been taken off the table after negotiations between the city government and the project proponent failed.

According to the city’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Office, the proponent was unable to complete several requirements during the negotiation stage required under Republic Act 11966, also known as the PPP Code. Because key conditions were not met within the prescribed timeline, the city government formally declared a failure of negotiations.

PPP Iloilo City head David Abraham G. Garcia confirmed that despite attempts to comply, the proponent could not finalize the required documents before the deadline. As a result, the project will no longer proceed.

Project Overview

The unsolicited proposal was submitted by Iloilo Global City Corp., an associate of publicly listed real estate developer Cebu Landmasters Inc..

The large-scale development aimed to reclaim approximately 662 hectares of land along Iloilo City’s coastline. Proposed coverage stretched from Fort San Pedro in the City Proper district to Villa Arevalo, including portions of the coastal areas in Jaro.

Under PPP regulations, unsolicited proposals must complete negotiations within 150 calendar days from the issuance of a notice to commence discussions.

What This Means for Iloilo

While the cancellation halts one of the city’s most ambitious coastal expansion plans, it also highlights the importance of compliance, transparency, and readiness in major public-private partnerships.

For residents, property buyers, and investors, the decision brings clarity. Attention may now shift toward other infrastructure and real estate developments that are more immediately feasible and aligned with regulatory requirements.

As Iloilo continues to grow as a regional investment hub, stakeholders remain watchful for future projects that balance progress, sustainability, and community impact.