BIZ BUZZ: Making an impact in Sicogon

Feature film “Asog” has garnered considerable international acclaim and elicited sympathy for families affected by the development of Sicogon island into a world-class tourism destination.

Property giant Ayala Land Inc. was not exactly cast in a good light in the story, to put it mildly.

But rather than expending energy on addressing “external narratives,” the Ayala-led company believes it can better serve the communities affected by its multibillion-peso development by focusing on fulfilling its commitments.

According to ALI, since it started developing the island as a tourism destination, it has made serious headway into fulfilling its resettlement, livelihood and infrastructure commitments under the amended 2021 Comprehensive Framework Agreement with the Federation of Sicogon Island Farmers and Fisherfolk Association (Fesiffa).

To date, 81 percent of the pledged P294 million—equivalent to P239 million—has been released for land development, housing construction and livelihood support since 2021.

According to ALI, long-term employment and economic prospects on the island used to be limited. But with the continuing development, over 400 residents have since been employed in tourism, construction and estate operations.

While most commitments have been met, the remaining 19 percent of funds will be released once the community completes necessary construction permits and agreed milestones.

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ALI also says it remains engaged in finalizing the turnover of residential and agricultural titles to Fesiffa.

Significant progress has been made on the deed of donation, but further steps depend on Fesiffa’s final decision moving forward, it adds.

Here’s hoping that commitments will be fulfilled as soon as possible in the name of making sure that the majority of the parties will benefit, not just the big and the powerful.