Sicogon Island Community Urges Ayala Land to Honor Development Commitments
BACOLOD. Residents and stakeholders of Sicogon Island in Carles, Iloilo, are intensifying their call for Ayala Land Incorporated (ALI) to fulfill its long-standing commitment to develop the island into a world-class eco-tourism destination. The appeal comes after 15 years of what they describe as stalled progress and unfulfilled promises that have left the local community in limbo.
Broken Promises and Stalled Development
Negrense businessman Alfredo Luis "Dave" Sarrosa has issued a public statement highlighting the failure of ALI to deliver on its obligations under a joint venture agreement. Sarrosa revealed that in 2010, he and his father, Edgardo Sarrosa, initiated negotiations with ALI through Emmanuel Jalandoni for the comprehensive development of Sicogon Island. The original plan included:
- Creating a sustainable eco-tourism hub
- Providing livelihood opportunities for residents
- Implementing resettlement programs
- Distributing agricultural lands to the Federation of Sicogon Island Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (Fesiffa)
"Promises broken, development stalled, and a future hijacked by deceit—marginalized people left in the dust," Sarrosa declared. "Fifteen long years of no development, no employment, and broken commitments—it's time we make things right."
Vision Versus Reality
Sarrosa explained that his father's vision as former president of Sicogon Development Corporation (Sideco) was to holistically develop Sicogon Island—a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, clear waters, vibrant marine life, and mountain hiking trails. The island offers numerous recreational activities including snorkeling, kayaking, and island hopping to nearby Gigantes Islands.
"But this vision did not materialize after long years of mismanagement, hidden agendas, and neglect of residents by its tripartite joint venture," he added.
The Sicogon Island Tourism Estate Corporation (Sitec) was established as the incorporated joint venture company to own, market, manage, and operate the project. Under the Joint Venture Agreement (JVA), Sitec became the absolute owner of the 810-hectare property.
"The plan was clear and exciting: develop the land, provide livelihood to residents, build homes for the people, and improve their lives as the island progresses. However, the JVA with ALI was a major failure," Sarrosa emphasized.
Investment and Unfulfilled Expectations
As a stockholder owning at least 25 percent of Coral Holdings Incorporated—which in turn owns 40.86 percent of Sideco—Sarrosa stated that he continues to advocate for the welfare of Sicogon Island residents whom they have supported for decades, even during times of calamities and uncertainty.
He disclosed investing millions of pesos in support infrastructure, including batching plants, heavy equipment, and other materials, to accelerate the construction of housing units, roads, a jetty port, and an airport.
"My plan was simple: give what is due to the people of Sicogon," Sarrosa said. "Develop the land in partnership with the national and provincial governments, not in the hands of Ayala Land Inc., which has promised so much for so long but failed to deliver what is due to the people."
Livelihood Concerns and Employment Promises
Sarrosa noted that 21 years have passed since development discussions began, yet local residents still lack stable and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Under the JVA, ALI was expected to deliver 10,000 job opportunities, particularly for local residents who were supposed to be the direct and priority beneficiaries of the island's development.
"But jobs were not given. People are still searching for quality and stable livelihood to help them survive," he added.
The businessman stressed that Sicogon Island and its people are not for sale, asserting that "the island can be developed sustainably, and progress is within reach. As the island grows, so will its people."
Calls for Justice and Revised Agreement
Sarrosa is now seeking justice and calling for public support to secure prosperity, quality of life, and progress for Sicogon Island residents—benefits they have long been denied.
"We stand with the people of Sicogon Island, who have been denied their rightful place in their own home," he stated. "The failure to fulfill these promises has sparked outrage and calls for greater accountability in land development and indigenous rights."
Sarrosa disclosed plans to meet with Ayala Land Inc. owners to discuss the future of Sicogon Island, revisit the original commitments under the JVA, and potentially draft a revised agreement focused on people-oriented and timely development strategies.
As of Monday, February 2, 2026, Ayala Land Inc. could not be reached for comment regarding these allegations and the proposed meeting.
