Property developer Alliance Global Group, Inc. has reinforced its commitment to nation-building with the record-time completion of the Mactan Expo, a major events facility expected to boost the Philippines’ capacity to host global conventions and exhibitions.
The milestone was highlighted by Kevin Tan, president and chief executive officer of Alliance Global, during the facility’s inauguration in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Monday, March 16. The ceremony was attended by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Located inside The Mactan Newtown, the convention venue was completed in less than two years—an unusually fast turnaround for a project of its scale, Tan said.
The expo center forms part of the township’s 30-hectare “live, work, play, learn, and beach” community designed to drive tourism, business events, and local economic growth in Cebu.
According to Tan, the project gained momentum after a 2023 meeting with President Marcos, who urged the private sector to help develop a world-class convention center capable of hosting major international gatherings.
Alliance Global had originally planned the expo center before the pandemic, but the project was revived and expanded following the President’s encouragement.
The venue is now being positioned as one of the sites for the Philippines’ Association of Southeast Asian Nations engagements this year, along with other large-scale international events.
“We revisited our plans for a convention center in Mactan and began putting everything back into motion,” Tan said. “In less than two years, we were able to complete this project, which shows what can be achieved when the private sector and government work together.”
At the heart of the facility is a grand pillarless ballroom and event hall designed to host large-scale conventions and exhibitions. Local designers and Cebuano artists were tapped to ensure the venue reflects Cebu’s culture and craftsmanship.
Tan added that Alliance Global plans to pursue similar developments across its townships nationwide, strengthening communities while supporting the country’s tourism and economic expansion.
