In Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, the air was charged not just by the summer heat but by a palpable buzz of excitement and anticipation. Amidst colorful festivities and historical commemorations, Megaworld Corporation was laying the groundwork for the Mactan Expo Center, a project poised to revolutionize the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) industry.
A historic backdrop to modern innovations
The city, renowned for its annual re-enactment of the historic Battle of Mactan, now finds an additional reason to celebrate with the rise of the Mactan Expo Center. Coinciding with Megaworld’s 35th anniversary theme, “A Lasting Vision,” this initiative signifies a monumental leap in both local and international business tourism, marrying the valor of the past with the innovation of the present.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. led the capsule-laying ceremony of the Mactan Expo Center together with Alliance Global Group, Inc. CEO Kevin Andrew L. Tan, Megaworld chief operating officer Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan, and other local officials at the actual construction site of the convention facility, which is just a short walk from the historic Lapu-Lapu Shrine.
During the capsule-laying ceremony, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. highlighted the project’s potential to elevate Cebu’s status as a global business hub, stating, “This township will further strengthen the city’s position as a major destination for key business events both locally and internationally. The Allianz Global Group is poised to build a world-class convention center here, a source of pride not just for Cebu but for the entire country. This 1.5 billion peso Mactan Expo Center represents a pioneering development in Cebu.”
The President also emphasized the government’s commitment to the project’s success, announcing significant funding for local infrastructure improvements: “In 2024, the DPWH is funding about 2.9 billion pesos in infrastructure projects here in Lapu-Lapu City alone. These include road widening projects that will help decongest traffic on major thoroughfares.”
Designed for a global audience
Set for completion in 2025, the Mactan Expo Center will stand out as the province’s only standalone convention facility with direct beach access, an attribute that enhances its allure. Designed to accommodate large-scale international gatherings, the facility will feature a convention hall capable of hosting 3,000 guests in a theater setup and versatile meeting rooms for smaller, intimate events.
Managed by Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the two-level center will offer almost 10,000 square meters of MICE space. The ground level includes two drop-off areas, service kitchen areas for various catering needs, cafes, and an event showroom where clients can preview sample event setups. The mezzanine level will host two meeting rooms, each accommodating 100-150 persons, with an outdoor balcony offering views of the bustling township and the sea.
Sustainability and cultural harmony
The design of the Expo Center pays homage to Cebu’s rich local culture, integrating sustainable practices compliant with the Philippine Green Building Council’s standards. Features include low-emission glass, water-efficient fixtures, and state-of-the-art recycling and sewage treatment facilities, ensuring the building is not only aesthetically pleasing but environmentally responsible.
Expanding tourism horizons
As Megaworld continues to expand its reach with additional hotels, facilities, and integrated townships, Tan reiterated the company’s commitment, “As firm believers in the Philippine tourism mandate, we pledge to complete the Mactan Expo Center by next year to host major international summits and conferences. This development is our contribution to amplifying Cebu’s burgeoning MICE industry and aligning with the broader tourism objectives under the Marcos administration.”
Reflecting on the transformative journey from undeveloped land to a thriving business district, Tan shared, “Initially, this area was just bare land. Envisioning something monumental, we have proudly overseen The Mactan Newtown’s transformation into a bustling central business district of Lapu-Lapu City since our first development in 2013.”
Cebu: next global summit venue?
The Mactan Expo Center is not just a milestone for Megaworld but a beacon for the future of global conferencing, blending Cebu’s historical significance with cutting-edge facilities. This center will not only serve as a beacon of innovation in the conferencing sphere but also ignite the economic and cultural landscape of Cebu, ushering in an era of prosperity and international acclaim.
So, can Cebu possibly be the next global summit venue? With its strategic location, innovative design, and sustainable focus, the answer more than likely can be in the affirmative, as the Mactan Expo Center is expected to attract a diverse array of international events and visitors. This exciting development promises to elevate the local economy, foster cultural exchanges, and provide a sustainable model for future projects in the Philippines and beyond.