MANILA, Philippines — A three-story mixed-use commercial hub is set to rise in the First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) in Batangas, a development expected to help improve the quality of life and create jobs in the area.
Lopez-led FPIP said it broke ground on the three-story mixed-use commercial center inside the 600-hectare economic zone in Sto. Tomas, Batangas on Sept.10.
The groundbreaking ceremony was led by FPIP chief commercial officer Jose Valentin Pantangco, Batangas Rep. Maitet Collantes, AnaKalusugan Partylist Rep. Ray Reyes and Sto. Tomas Mayor Arth Jhun Marasigan, represented by former vice mayor Abet Marasigan.
FPIP partnered with construction firm First Balfour and architectural firm Aidea to develop FPIP Plaza, which is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026.
Covering a 15,000-square meter space, the FPIP Plaza will house various retail establishments like restaurants, service centers, corporate offices and government offices.
“FPIP Plaza is a testament to our desire to create something that is for the community, employees and locators of FPIP, and even more importantly, the whole of Sto. Tomas and Tanauan, and barangays nearby will have an opportunity to gather and connect with each other,” Pantangco said.
FPIP Plaza is also expected to create more job opportunities to add to over 70,000 employees working at FPIP.
“It will continue to support the mission of FPIP – to create jobs, strengthen industry and modernize the two cities of Sto. Tomas and Tanauan, and make Batangas the prime industrial corridor of the Philippines,” Pantangco said.
Collantes recognized how the FPIP Plaza can provide a boost to businesses and help customers.
“I can already see the impending growth of the local economy, the creation of even more work opportunities, the flourishing of surrounding businesses, the placement of more investments and the strengthening of the position of FPIP and its partners,” she said.
For his part, Reyes underscored the significance of state-of-the-art facilities in elevating the quality of life of Batangueños and creating a more vibrant economy.
“FPIP Plaza will introduce modern facilities and amenities that will enhance the everyday experience of our residents, locators and their employees. From improved access to services, vibrant public spaces to social interaction, FPIP Plaza will become a vital part of the community standard,” he said.
Established in 1996 by Lopez-controlled First Philippine Holdings Corp. with Sumitomo Corp. of Japan, FPIP hosts over 150 world-class locators including Collins Aerospace, Philippine Manufacturing Co. of Murata Inc. and Dyson.