Tagum City Mayor Champions Aggressive Land Banking for Sustainable Growth
Tagum City Mayor Rey T. Uy is spearheading an aggressive land banking initiative as a cornerstone of the city's long-term development plan, highlighting the rapid escalation of land values in the area. During a press conference following his Mayor's Report on Friday, March 6, Uy elaborated that acquiring land now will enable the local government to secure assets poised for significant appreciation in the coming years. He emphasized that the city has already reaped substantial benefits from similar strategic investments in the past, referencing properties purchased at relatively low prices that have since surged in value.
Strategic Investments and Past Successes
Mayor Uy provided specific examples to illustrate the effectiveness of this approach. He mentioned a property in Madaum along the highway, near Katipunan, which was acquired through a loan at only ₱100 per square meter. "We really do not lose when we take out loans because once the principal and interest are paid, the value of the land has already increased significantly. That is why we continue to take loans now, to take advantage of land appreciation," Uy explained. Additionally, he cited the 13-hectare site where the new city hall stands, donated by the late Atty. Jesus Ayala, noting that adjacent land prices have risen markedly over time.
Infrastructure and Future Planning
The mayor also detailed recent acquisitions, such as land near the diagnostic center area, which includes space allocated for a congressional office. This move ensures that future district representatives will have a permanent government facility, eliminating the need for rental arrangements. "So that whoever becomes the next congressmen, they will have their own office, not just renting everywhere," he stated. Uy credited the city council and local officials for maintaining unity in pursuing these development initiatives, stressing that Tagum's leadership remains committed to responsible spending of public funds for direct resident benefits.
Economic Opportunities and Tourism Projects
Uy underscored that land banking is vital for Tagum's future, particularly as the city lacks abundant natural resources. Instead, the local government is fostering economic opportunities through infrastructure, public spaces, and tourism-oriented projects. He pointed to the Senior's Park and Children's Park as successful examples that have boosted local activity, attracting residents and visitors in the evenings and providing income streams for small vendors and nearby businesses. "We still have many things to do because we do not have natural resources, so we rely on man-made developments. What we need is to create situations that will generate opportunities for our people," Uy added.
Upcoming Initiatives and Environmental Efforts
Among the upcoming projects, the city government plans to develop a motor-racing track on a 12-hectare property, offering a dedicated space for motorcycle and bicycle enthusiasts, including professionals, amateurs, and young riders. This facility is expected to enhance tourism and local commerce by attracting participants, mechanics, support teams, and families, thereby increasing demand for services like food, lodging, and transportation. Concurrently, environmental initiatives are underway in the Madaum property, focusing on protecting century-old mangroves and expanding riverbanks to create a wider waterway for activities such as boating and kayaking. A promenade along the river is also planned to draw visitors and stimulate small-business activity, with completion targeted within the next two years.
Mayor Uy reaffirmed the city government's dedication to exploring projects that generate opportunities and reduce poverty in Tagum by fostering economic activity and developing public spaces that benefit all residents.
