Passi LGU to use URC land for public road construction

The planned thoroughfare leading to a proposed economic zone aims to prevent traffic congestion inside Passi City. (Screenshot from Google maps)

MANILA— Universal Robina Corp. (URC) and the local government of Passi City, Iloilo have agreed to allow the city to use a portion of the former’s property to construct a road leading to a proposed economic zone.

In a statement Monday, URC said its president and Chief Executive Officer, Lance Gokongwei; URC Sugar and Renewable Business Unit General Manager Renato Cabati; and Passi City Mayor Jesry Palmares signed a deed granting the city government the right and privilege to use about four hectares of URC’s land for a road construction.

The planned thoroughfare leading to a proposed economic zone aims to prevent traffic congestion inside Passi City.

According to Palmares, the road project would serve as a a major artery in Panay Island, improving the transportation and logistics in Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, and Northern Antique.

Moreover, the Passi City government will be responsible for the maintenance of the road, while URC will retain its ownership over the four-hectare land.

On the other hand, URC will be given exemption on payment of real property taxes with respect to the subject property.

The tax exemption was passed through a Sangguniang Panglunsod resolution of Passi City.

“This is our way of giving back to a community that has been a gracious and generous host to us.  It is our hope that through this effort, Passi City can achieve its goals to bring growth and prosperity to its population,” Gokongwei said.

The proposed economic zone in Passi City aims to develop growth in its agriculture sector. Passi City main products include sugarcane, rice, and pineapple.