One of the country’s leading real estate companies is poised to reinvigorate the city’s economy and commercial landscape with the launch of The Forum I.T. Business Park.
It’s time to pack your bags and head over to Batangas City.
The Batangas City landscape is shaping up to be an exciting one not just for leisure-seekers, but also for people looking for an attractive destination for potential property investment.
The city is on the verge of a major transformation in the leisure, retail and industrial scene with a new premium township project launched by leading premium real estate developer PonteFino Estates.
After opening the first deluxe hotel in Batangas City in 2004 with PonteFino Hotel, the company also holds the distinction of being the first to offer Victorian-themed homes in 2007 with PonteFino Residences. In 2015, soon after offering high net worth homeowners with The Mansions at PonteFino, the company announced its newest project, The Forum, which is the first PEZA (Philippine Economic Zone Authority)-registered I.T. Business Park in the city. Less than a decade later, it’s almost here!
The Forum I.T. Business Park is a 4.26-hectare PEZA-registered commercial township. It is now poised to become a central hub for business and I.T.-related industries, commercial and retail business owners, complete with streamlined processes for investors. Imagine a world-class and master-planned mixed-use estate that locals and guests can enjoy for shopping, dining and leisure activities and at the same host important industries.
It’s a master-planned Information Technology Park (ecozone) that will be built around the needs of technology-incentive companies engaged in Business Process Outsourcing and Knowledge Process Outsourcing. It will likewise feature commercial and retail hubs. As a PEZA-certified I.T. business park, I.T.-related business owners can enjoy special perks and incentives for locators such as tax holidays of up to 10 years, customs duties exemption and other tax exemptions.
John Thomas “JT” Garcia, vice president for sales at PonteFino Estates, spoke about the importance of the upcoming township project.
“The Forum is a major component of our township development in Batangas City. This project is in support of Batangas City, being one of the top 10 digital cities in the Philippines. It will be offering different property formats. We have our Commerce Walk, that will be comprised of office buildings for BPOs, showrooms and other business needs. We’ll also have our retail spaces that would cater for F&B, services and other types of commercial businesses,” Garcia said.
With his years of experience in helping foster regional growth, Garcia assured those present of the company’s dedication in meeting the needs of both investors and homeowners.
“With The Forum I.T. Park, we aim to offer developments that enhance the business landscape while enriching the lives of our residents,” said Garcia. “We’re confident that this development by PonteFino will provide excellent returns for investors and contribute to the long-term development of the city. It’s an exciting time to be part of Batangas City’s growth.”
Charyna Francisco, vice president for marketing of PonteFino Estates, talked further about The Forum’s market.
“The main target market would be the I.T. businesses such as the computer industry, the gaming industry—which is becoming popular, and even the animation industry. We want to make this also a hub for them as they will enjoy tax incentives. We’re also catering to local business owners who want bigger spaces and more accessibility,” Francisco shared.
“The look of the township would be very modern and very elegant. Everyone, not just from Batangas, but also those from Metro Manila and nearby provinces, are welcome. Being a township is very much a lifestyle community so there will be lagoons, jogging paths. It’s not going to be the typical development people have come to expect,” she added.
In attendance during the event were real estate investors seeking modern and sustainable solutions as well as locators. With its strategic location, investor-friendly commercial options and thoughtfully designed residential spaces, PonteFino Estates is set to redefine the landscape of Batangas City.
The occasion highlighted PonteFino’s role in transforming the local landscape through innovative residential and commercial projects, further establishing Batangas City as a key investment destination for both local and international markets. As a host to the second largest international port in the country, Batangas City remains an important business destination. What’s more, it hosts over 100 multinational companies, mostly in fuel and power. In recent years, it has also become a top destination for I.T. companies.—By Grace C. Diez
