SM City Iligan: Iligan’s Next Big Retail and Lifestyle Destination

 Iligan City, Lanao del Norte — Iligan is set to welcome a major new landmark in commercial development: SM City Iligan, the first full-scale SM Supermall in the city. This upcoming mall represents a significant investment and a milestone for Iligan, promising to bring world-class retail, dining, entertainment, and community spaces to the “City of Majestic Waterfalls.”

Strategic Location and Development

SM City Iligan is being constructed on a 5.3-hectare property at the corner of Andres Bonifacio Avenue and Isabel Romero Street in Barangay Sto. Rosario, a growing commercial area in the city. The project is backed by a ₱1.35-billion investment and will span over 102,000 square meters of gross floor area across three levels plus a roof deck.

The site design includes ample parking, a dedicated transport terminal to improve accessibility for jeepneys, buses, and vans, and modern mall infrastructure designed to serve both local shoppers and visitors from neighboring towns.

What to Expect Inside SM City Iligan

While official tenant lists have yet to be released, SM Supermalls typically include:

• Anchor brands such as The SM Store and SM Supermarket

• Fashion, lifestyle, and specialty shops

• Food courts and restaurants featuring local and international cuisine

• Entertainment options like cinemas and activity areas

• Community spaces and public amenities

The inclusion of a roof deck and transport terminal reflects a broader trend in SM’s mall designs toward mixed-use spaces that cater not just to shopping but also to leisure, transit, and community gatherings.

Timeline and Construction Progress

Recent project updates (as of January 2026) show that groundwork and vertical construction preparations are well underway, with several tower cranes already in place. SM Prime is targeting a late 2027 opening -- a timeline that allows for careful build-out of facilities and tenant preparation.

City officials and SM Prime representatives have reiterated their commitment to delivering a high-quality community mall that moves beyond traditional retail to become a central lifestyle hub in Iligan.

Economic and Social Impact

The arrival of SM City Iligan is expected to stimulate the local economy significantly. During construction alone, hundreds of jobs will be created, and once operational, the mall will provide ongoing employment opportunities in retail, services, maintenance, and management.

Moreover, the mall is projected to boost adjacent businesses, enhance consumer choices, and attract more visitors to Iligan -- further integrating the city into the broader economic landscape of Northern Mindanao.

A Milestone for Iligan City

SM City Iligan marks a key milestone for both the city and SM Prime’s regional expansion strategy. It will be among the first major flagship malls in the region, complementing other developments and contributing to Iligan’s growth as a commercial and social destination.

As the project continues to unfold, Iligan residents and business owners alike are watching closely -- eager for the new opportunities and experiences this premier mall promises to bring.

First Solar-Powered Jollibee Opens in Maramag, Bukidnon on October 10, 2025

Maramag, Bukidnon continued to strengthen its position as a rising commercial center in Northern Mindanao with the opening of the first solar-powered Jollibee branch in the municipality on October 10, 2025. This milestone reflected not only Jollibee Foods Corporation’s commitment to sustainable business practices, but also Maramag’s growing role as a strategic hub for investment, commerce, and innovation in the region.

The new solar-powered Jollibee branch represented a significant step toward renewable energy adoption in the local business landscape. By utilizing solar energy, the establishment aimed to reduce its carbon footprint while promoting environmentally responsible operations. This initiative aligned with broader national and global efforts to support sustainable development, demonstrating how major brands could integrate clean energy solutions without compromising service quality and operational efficiency.

Maramag: A Strategic Business Gateway

Maramag’s importance as a business hub was rooted in its strategic geographic location, situated near the boundary between Davao City and Bukidnon. Serving as a natural gateway between urban economic centers and agricultural provinces, the municipality benefited from strong connectivity, accessible transport routes, and a steadily expanding local market. Its proximity to Davao City allowed businesses to tap into a larger metropolitan economy while maintaining access to Bukidnon’s resources, workforce, and emerging consumer base.

In recent years, Maramag experienced steady commercial growth, marked by increasing investments in retail, food service, logistics, and infrastructure. The establishment of a solar-powered Jollibee branch further reinforced investor confidence in the municipality’s long-term economic potential.

Driving Sustainable and Inclusive Growth

The opening of the branch was expected to generate local employment, stimulate surrounding businesses, and encourage the adoption of renewable energy technologies in the area. Beyond serving as a dining destination, the solar-powered Jollibee in Maramag stood as a symbol of progress, where sustainability, accessibility, and economic development converged.

As Maramag continued to evolve into a vital commercial center bridging Davao City and Bukidnon, developments such as this highlighted the municipality’s readiness to embrace modern, sustainable, and future-focused investments. The October 10, 2025 opening marked not only the launch of a new Jollibee store, but also a meaningful step forward in shaping Maramag’s role in Mindanao’s economic landscape.

An Iconic Twin-Tower Residence Rising in the Heart of CDO

Casa Mira Towers CDO: Strengthening Cagayan de Oro’s Position as a Prime Investment Hub in Mindanao

Casa Mira Towers Cagayan de Oro, a landmark residential development by Cebu Landmasters, Inc., is emerging as a key symbol of confidence in the continued growth of Cagayan de Oro City and the broader Northern Mindanao region.

As of January 2026, both towers have successfully reached their full structural heights—Tower 1 at 23 floors and Tower 2 at 27 floors—establishing the project as the tallest twin-tower condominium development in District 1, CDO. With exterior finishing works now underway and lifestyle amenities actively taking shape, the project is transitioning into its final development phase.

Strategically located in Barangay Kauswagan, Casa Mira Towers benefits from proximity to major commercial corridors, logistics routes, educational institutions, and emerging business districts. This prime location positions the development as a compelling asset for investors seeking long-term capital appreciation, rental demand stability, and portfolio diversification in Mindanao’s most dynamic urban center.

Cagayan de Oro continues to assert itself as the gateway economy of Northern Mindanao, driven by strong trade activity, infrastructure investments, and a growing professional workforce. Developments such as Casa Mira Towers align with this upward trajectory, addressing the increasing demand for quality high-rise residences that support modern urban lifestyles and business mobility.

With construction milestones steadily achieved, Casa Mira Towers reflects Cebu Landmasters’ proven track record in delivering value-driven, strategically located developments across the Visayas and Mindanao. The project reinforces investor confidence in CDO’s real estate market while contributing to the city’s evolving skyline and urban density.

As Mindanao attracts greater interest from regional and national investors, Casa Mira Towers CDO stands out as a future-ready residential investment—anchored in location, scale, and the sustained economic momentum of Cagayan de Oro City.

📍 Project Location: Brgy. Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City
📆 Construction Update: January 2026
📸 Source: Cebu Landmasters, Inc.

Traffic Spike Aside, Davao Remains the Better Bet for Peace, Growth, and Livability

 

Davao vs. Metro Manila: Traffic Spike, Same Promise

Yes, Davao City now ranks higher than Metro Manila in the latest traffic congestion index — a headline that shocked many and sparked online debate. But for Dabawenyos and those considering a move south, the numbers tell only one part of the story.

Traffic congestion does not erase what continues to make Davao one of the most livable and promising cities in the Philippines.

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Davao’s Traffic Problem Is a Sign of Growth — Not Decline

Unlike Metro Manila, where congestion has been chronic for decades, Davao’s traffic surge is relatively recent. It reflects:

• Rapid population growth

• Rising household incomes and car ownership

• Expanding business districts beyond the city core

• Large-scale infrastructure projects temporarily constricting roads

In short, people are coming to Davao because life works here.

This isn’t urban decay — it’s urban momentum.

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Why Davao Still Wins on Quality of Life

Even with heavier traffic, Davao offers what Metro Manila increasingly cannot:

✔ Safer, calmer communities

Davao consistently ranks high in public safety perception. Families can still walk neighborhoods, children can commute without fear, and daily life feels less hostile.

✔ More value for money

Housing remains more affordable, with larger living spaces and lower rent-to-income ratios than Metro Manila.

✔ Work-life balance still exists

Commutes may be longer than before, but they are not yet life-consuming. A bad traffic day in Davao is still a normal day in Manila.

✔ A growing, not overcrowded economy

Davao’s BPOs, logistics hubs, agribusiness, and tourism sectors continue expanding — without the hyper-competition and burnout culture of Metro Manila.

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Metro Manila’s Problem Is Structural — Davao’s Is Fixable

This is the key difference.

Metro Manila:

• Traffic is deeply entrenched

• Governance is fragmented across cities and agencies

• Infrastructure solutions are complex, slow, and politically tangled

• Density has passed sustainable limits in many areas

Davao:

• Governance is centralized under one LGU

• Road expansion and traffic reforms are still manageable

• Mass transport solutions can still be implemented effectively

• Urban sprawl is not yet irreversible

Davao’s congestion is a warning — not a verdict.

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Infrastructure: A Call to Act, Not a Cause for Panic

Yes, government action is needed:

• Faster rollout of mass public transport

• Smarter traffic enforcement and signal systems

• Better land-use planning as new districts emerge

But Davao is still at a stage where good planning can change outcomes — unlike Metro Manila, where many solutions arrive too late.

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The Bottom Line: Davao Remains the Better Bet

Traffic rankings may place Davao above Metro Manila today — but livability is more than congestion percentages.

Davao remains:

• More peaceful

• More family-friendly

• More affordable

• More governable

• More sustainable in the long run

The traffic surge is not the end of Davao’s promise.
It’s proof that the city is growing — and that it must now grow smarter.

COA: Davao City Ranks 8th Among Wealthiest Cities in the Philippines in 2024

 

Davao City, Philippines — Davao City ranked eighth nationwide among the wealthiest cities in the Philippines based on total assets, according to the 2024 Annual Financial Report (AFR) released by the Commission on Audit (COA).

The report, which covers the audited financial statements of local government units for fiscal year 2023, places Quezon City, Makati City, and Manila City as the top three wealthiest cities in the country.

Top 10 Wealthiest Cities by Total Assets (COA 2024 AFR)

1. Quezon City – approximately ₱490 billion

2. Makati City – approximately ₱246 billion

3. Manila City – approximately ₱93 billion

4. Pasig City – approximately ₱54.8 billion

5. Taguig City – approximately ₱54.2 billion

6. Iloilo City – approximately ₱39.5 billion

7. Parañaque City – approximately ₱38.2 billion

8. Davao City – approximately ₱37.4 billion

9. Mandaue City – approximately ₱35.8 billion

10. Mandaluyong City – approximately ₱34.1 billion

Despite falling outside the top three, Davao City remains the highest-ranked city in Mindanao and continues to be one of the country’s financially strongest local governments.

Assets vs Economic Output

COA’s ranking is based on total assets, which include cash, infrastructure, land, buildings, equipment, and other government-owned properties. This metric reflects a city government’s financial capacity and fiscal health, rather than overall economic activity.

In contrast, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) measures economic strength through Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which tracks the total value of goods and services produced within a city.

Under PSA data, Quezon City, Makati City, and Manila City also lead in economic output, while Davao City consistently ranks as the largest economy outside Luzon, underscoring its role as Mindanao’s primary economic hub.

Regional Significance

While Metro Manila cities continue to dominate national rankings, COA data show that regional centers such as Iloilo City and Davao City are steadily increasing their asset base, signaling improved fiscal management and sustained investment in public infrastructure.

Davao City’s ranking reflects its continued growth in government-owned assets and its importance as a center for trade, education, and services in southern Philippines.

Outlook

The COA emphasized that asset-based rankings should be viewed alongside other indicators such as revenue generation, service delivery, and economic productivity to gain a more complete picture of local government performance.

The 2024 AFR provides policymakers, investors, and the public with a clearer understanding of how cities manage public resources amid ongoing economic recovery and development efforts.

Jollibee Reopens Store at Ayala Malls Centrio

Jollibee Reopens Refreshed Store at Ayala Malls Centrio

Jollibee has reopened its newly refreshed branch at Ayala Malls Centrio, unveiling a brighter and more spacious store designed to enhance customer comfort and dining efficiency.

Located at the Ground and Second Levels of the CM Recto Wing, the upgraded outlet features modern interiors suited for families and busy mallgoers. The reopening highlights Jollibee Foods Corporation’s continued investment in Cagayan de Oro City, reinforcing its position as a key commercial center in Northern Mindanao.

Industry observers note that the expansion and modernization of major national brands reflect the city’s growing role as a regional business and retail hub, contributing to increased consumer activity and local economic growth.

📸 Ayala Malls Centrio

McDonald’s Isulan Reinforces Isulan’s Role as a Rising Business Hub

 

McDonald’s Isulan Celebrates Grand Opening, Signals Growing Economic Momentum in South Cotabato

ISULAN, Sultan Kudarat — A new chapter of growth and convenience begins as McDonald’s Isulan officially opens its doors on December 18, 2025, bringing one of the world’s most iconic quick-service restaurant brands to the heart of Sultan Kudarat. Adding to the excitement, the restaurant will begin operating 24/7 starting December 21, 2025, making it a round-the-clock dining destination for locals and travelers alike.

The opening of McDonald’s Isulan is more than just the arrival of a global brand—it is a strong indicator of the town’s rising economic profile and its growing importance within Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and the wider SOCCSKSARGEN Region (Region XII).

A Strategic Location with Strong Market Potential

Isulan serves as a vital commercial and transit hub in Sultan Kudarat, strategically positioned along major road networks connecting South Cotabato, Maguindanao del Sur, North Cotabato, and General Santos City. The municipality experiences consistent foot traffic from students, professionals, government employees, and travelers, making it an ideal location for a high-demand, fast-moving consumer brand like McDonald’s.

The presence of nearby schools, government offices, commercial centers, and residential communities further strengthens Isulan’s appeal as a sustainable business environment. With a steadily growing population and increasing urban activity, the town presents a promising market for food and beverage establishments that cater to diverse lifestyles and schedules.

Boosting the Local Economy and Employment

McDonald’s Isulan is expected to generate new employment opportunities, particularly for local residents, contributing to skills development and income generation in the area. From crew members to management roles, the store supports McDonald’s long-standing commitment to local hiring and workforce training.

Beyond direct employment, the restaurant’s operations will also benefit local suppliers, service providers, and logistics partners-creating a ripple effect that stimulates the local economy.

Supporting Regional Growth in SOCCSKSARGEN

The expansion of McDonald’s into Isulan reflects the broader economic momentum of the SOCCSKSARGEN Region, known for its strong agricultural base, expanding trade, and improving infrastructure. As investment confidence continues to rise in Region XII, global and national brands are increasingly recognizing its long-term growth potential.

With its 24/7 operations, McDonald’s Isulan is poised to serve not only the local community but also travelers, night-shift workers, and nearby municipalities, reinforcing Isulan’s role as a service center for surrounding provinces.

A New Community Landmark

More than just a restaurant, McDonald’s Isulan is set to become a community landmark -- a place for families to gather, students to study, friends to meet, and travelers to rest and refuel. Its extended operating hours underscore its commitment to accessibility, convenience, and customer service.

As McDonald’s Isulan opens its doors, it stands as a symbol of progress, confidence, and opportunity -reflecting the vibrant future of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and the entire SOCCSKSARGEN region.

Good news indeed! Isulan is officially loving it, 24/7. 🍟🍔

Photo: McDonalds Isulan SK / Fb