By Benjamin Cuaresma
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso has thrown his full support behind the proposed ₱76-billion Manila Waterfront City reclamation project, calling the 318-hectare development a historic opportunity to reshape the capital’s economic future, attract major investments and create jobs and business opportunities for generations of Manileños.
Domagoso described the undertaking as one of the most significant development initiatives in Manila’s modern history, saying current leaders have a responsibility to leave behind opportunities that will benefit residents long after their terms in office.
“This today is that historic moment. At least in our own little way as current leaders, as those temporarily entrusted to govern, we have something to offer to the next generation of opportunity and growth,” the mayor said during the project’s launch at the Rizal Park Hotel in Ermita on Monday, October 12.
The Manila Waterfront City is envisioned as a major mixed-use development along Manila Bay, combining a central business district with commercial, tourism, lifestyle and public recreation facilities. It is being pursued through a joint venture between the City Government of Manila and Waterfront Manila Premier Development, Inc. (WMPDI), with the Philippine Reclamation Authority as government partner and AECOM as master planner.
With an estimated cost of ₱76 billion and a projected six-year completion period, the project is expected to transform a 318-hectare area into a new urban center under a land-sharing arrangement allocating 51% to the government and 49% to the private sector.
Domagoso underscored the development’s planned scale by comparing it with Bonifacio Global City, citing the economic opportunities associated with large-scale urban development.
“Mas malaki pa sa BGC itong gagawin na reclamation. Yung BGC 240 lang yun, eto 300. Just imagine because it brought progress and opportunity to the people of that particular LGU,” he said.
Project proponents estimate that the development could generate approximately one million jobs and business opportunities across construction, retail, hospitality, tourism and other service industries. The master plan also includes around 95 hectares of open and green spaces, with a proposed waterfront destination envisioned as “Luneta by the Sea.”
The revised master plan incorporates a 250-meter shoreline setback in accordance with guidance from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, with the stated aim of ensuring that the development complements Manila’s historical and cultural identity.
Domagoso also pledged continuity in the city’s contractual commitments, assuring investors and project partners that agreements entered into by previous administrations would be honored.
“When you do business in the City of Manila, it is certain. Kahit na kami ay magpalit-palit, kikilalanin namin ang mga kontrata,” he said.
The proposed Manila Waterfront City now stands as a major development undertaking backed by the city government, with its proponents projecting expanded commercial activity, employment opportunities and public spaces along Manila Bay. Its projected economic benefits and six-year completion target remain central to the project’s stated vision of creating a lasting legacy for future generations of Manileños.
ia/xf
