RLC bags deal to redevelop GenSan public market
Property developer Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC) has signed a public-private partnership (PPP) agreement with General Santos City to redevelop its central public market into a modern facility for P2.33 billion.
In a statement, RLC said the agreement covers the redevelopment of the General Santos City Central Public Market, which will be transformed into Palengke Heneral, the city’s first modern and solar-powered public market.
Under the partnership, RLC will build and complete a three-level market facility located within one of the city’s long-established commercial districts.
The project will rise on a 23,126-square-meter (sq m) site and will have a construction floor area of more than 14,800 sq m.
The redevelopment aims to improve traditional public market experience by introducing clearer zoning between wet and dry market sections, as well as better sanitation systems, improved airflow and enhanced safety features, such as closed-circuit television coverage in key areas.
According to RLC president and CEO Mybelle Aragon-GoBio, the project reflects the company’s broader efforts to upgrade its developments while improving community spaces.
She said the RLC’s “premiumization” strategy focuses not only on higher-end offerings but also on designing spaces that better serve communities and daily consumer needs.
The redevelopment will also include a three-level mall that will complement the public market and create additional opportunities for local businesses. The mall will feature an al fresco area overlooking Sarangani Bay, providing residents and visitors with a new space for dining and leisure.
Local business groups and vendors have welcomed the project, noting that a more organized market layout and improved management could help vendors operate more efficiently and better serve customers.
Under the PPP arrangement, RLC will operate the facility for 25 years, after which the upgraded public market will revert to the city government.
The project will also incorporate solar panels to support more energy-efficient operations, in line with RLC’s broader sustainability initiatives.
Palengke Heneral is expected to further strengthen RLC’s presence in Mindanao, where the company continues to expand its portfolio of malls, hotels and residential developments across key regional growth centers.
