Aboitiz InfraCapital, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, stands as a key player in the Philippine infrastructure landscape, committed to driving sustainable development that meets the evolving needs of Filipinos. AIC’s diverse portfolio focuses on critical sectors, including transportation and mobility, digital infrastructure, water and economic estates.
With a proven 30-year track record, AIC has emerged as a leading developer and operator of smart and sustainable industrial estates in Asia. Their flagship projects — the Lima Estate in Batangas, the Tari Estate in Tarlac, the Mactan Economic Zone 2 and West Cebu estates in Cebu — exemplify their dedication to innovation and sustainability in industrial development.
Aligned with the Aboitiz Group’s “Great Transformation” initiative, AIC’s economic estates spearhead the creation of a smarter, more sustainable future for the Philippines. By developing dynamic industrial ecosystems that foster business growth and the elevation of communities, these estates will make a lasting impact on the nation’s economy and social development.
Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, senior vice president and head of economic estates at Aboitiz InfraCapital, sheds light on their journey, partnerships and plans.
“Our economic estates are industrial-anchored townships that combine industrial use with commercial districts, shopping malls, hotels, office buildings and housing. This integrated approach differs from single-use industrial parks or residential-anchored townships with an industrial component. We also leverage the strengths of our affiliates within the Aboitiz Group, managing all utilities like power, water and sewage treatment internally. This makes it easier for companies to deal with one group for all their needs,” Fernandez de Mesa explained.
Our economic estates are industrial-anchored townships that combine industrial use with commercial districts, shopping malls, hotels, office buildings and housing.
Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, Senior Vice President and Head of Economic Estates at Aboitiz InfraCapital
The strategic locations of AIC’s economic estates in Cebu, Batangas and Tarlac cover nearly 2,000 hectares of prime industrial land. These estates are home to 235 companies across various sectors, employing over 100,000 Filipinos. The flagship development, the Lima Estate, hosts nearly 180 companies and 71,000 employees, showcasing its pivotal role in the Batangas economy. In Cebu, the Mactan Economic Zone 2 Estate and West Cebu Estate bolster the province’s position as a gateway to the Philippines, attracting global players in the maritime, manufacturing and logistics industries.
International alliances, innovations
AIC has forged key partnerships with Japanese companies, enhancing its industrial capabilities and global reach. For instance, the West Cebu Estate is a joint venture with Japan’s Tsuneishi Holdings Corp., a renowned shipbuilder. Additionally, Lima Estate, acquired by Aboitiz InfraCapital in 2014, was a project initially developed by Japanese trading house Marubeni. AIC also maintains a marketing agreement with Marubeni, facilitating the entry of locators to the Philippines. Approximately half of their locators are Japanese, with Epson being the largest employer, supporting around 20,000 jobs.
Moreover, AIC collaborated with the Philippine Green Building Council to develop and pioneer green certifications for large horizontal developments. They achieved the first 5-star green certification for an entire industrial estate in the Philippines, emphasizing sustainability in their developments. Initiatives to decarbonize transportation networks, enhance walkability and provide on-site housing within estates reduce commuting and improve workers’ quality of life. Recently, a 612-bed dormitory was opened at the Lima Estate, aimed at reducing traffic and supporting sustainable living.
Driving economic growth and investment, Aboitiz InfraCapital takes a proactive stance in promoting its developments and the Philippines as a prime investment destination. They engage in frequent visits to key markets like Japan, collaborating with government agencies to organize investment forums. These efforts raise awareness and facilitate business-to-business meetings with potential investors, addressing their concerns and fostering partnerships crucial for economic growth.
A notable success story is the transformation of Balamban in Cebu. Once a small fishing village, Balamban has evolved into a hub for advanced shipbuilding, attracting global companies like Tsuneishi Heavy Industries from Japan, Austal from Australia and Cebu Marine Industries, a renowned builder of luxury yachts under the esteemed Hudson Yacht Group. This development has elevated Balamban to a first-class municipality, showcasing the transformative impact of AIC’s investments.
“The Philippines has long been seen as having great potential, and now we are in a position to take a big leap forward. It’s time to take advantage of our strengths and realize that potential. Aboitiz InfraCapital is committed to playing a significant role in this growth by continuing to develop world-class economic estates, creating jobs, and supporting local communities,” Fernandez de Mesa asserted.
Aboitiz InfraCapital is committed to playing a significant role in this growth by continuing to develop world-class economic estates, creating jobs, and supporting local communities.
Competing on the global stage
AIC acknowledges that their competitors extend beyond the Philippines’ borders, encompassing other industrial parks across the region. By continuously enhancing their estates’ attractiveness and capabilities, they aim to position the Philippines as a premier investment destination in Asia. The integration of industrial, commercial and residential components within their estates not only supports business operations, but also fosters a conducive environment for sustainable growth.
AIC’s comprehensive approach to developing these estates sets new standards in the Philippine infrastructure sector. By integrating industrial, commercial and residential elements, focusing on sustainability and fostering international partnerships, the company facilitates business growth, uplifts communities and contributes to the nation’s economic advancement.
As they continue to expand and innovate, Aboitiz InfraCapital is not just tapping into the potential of the Philippines, but actively shaping its future. Their commitment to creating sustainable, thriving communities underscores their role as a catalyst for economic progress in the country.
