DoTr Considers Revisiting Mindanao Railway Project Feasibility Study Amid Funding Adjustments

TAGUM CITY, MINDANAO — The much-anticipated expansion of SM City Tagum is underway, marking a significant development in Tagum City’s commercial landscape. The project, which will soon begin pile driving operations, promises to elevate the city’s retail and leisure experience.

The expansion involves the construction of a three-level mall with a roof deck and a parking area that will accommodate 500 vehicles. The total gross floor area of the new SM City Tagum is set to be 60,105 square meters, spread over a lot area of 36,965 square meters. The projected cost for this major development is approximately Php 776.8 million.

Commencement of Pile Driving Operations

In the coming weeks, pile driving operations will commence, with 1,100 pile positions being set using the Hydraulic Static Pile Driving (HSPD) machine. This push-piling method ensures a stable foundation for the expansive structure. As the machinery and equipment arrive, excitement builds among the local community and stakeholders.

A Modern Retail Destination

The new SM City Tagum is poised to become a central destination for both residents and visitors. The mall will feature a variety of leasable areas, common spaces, and major anchors such as The SM Store, SM Hypermarket, and ACE Hardware. Additionally, it will house a Food Hall, a Cyberzone, an Amusement Area, and six cinemas, all located on the upper levels.

Advertisement

The development is designed to create a dynamic and sustainable commercial hub, catering to the diverse needs of the community. Shoppers can look forward to a mix of global brands, local favorites, dining cafes, and popular hang-out venues. The inclusion of wellness centers and family-oriented spaces further underscores SM City Tagum’s commitment to offering a comprehensive lifestyle destination.

Impact on Tagum City

This expansion is expected to significantly boost the local economy by creating jobs, attracting investment, and enhancing the overall retail and leisure offerings in Tagum City. The modern amenities and variety of shopping and dining options will make SM City Tagum a key destination in Mindanao, drawing in families, young professionals, and tourists alike.

As construction progresses, the vision for SM City Tagum as a vibrant, bustling hub of activity is quickly becoming a reality, promising to meet the needs of the community while setting new standards for commercial developments in the region.

Source: https://r11.emb.gov.ph/notice-of-public-scoping-3/

Photo by: Tagum Magz

Advertisement

Davao City, Philippines — SM City Davao, the first and largest SM mall in Mindanao, is undergoing a major expansion that will cement its status as the region’s premier shopping and business hub. This ambitious project will not only enhance retail and leisure offerings but also introduce the first National University campus in Mindanao, marking a significant milestone in the region’s educational landscape.

The expansion will add an impressive 165,436.76 square meters to the existing gross floor area (GFA) of 120,383.44 square meters, bringing the total GFA to 285,820.20 square meters. Designed by the renowned architect Royal Pineda, known for his work on high-profile projects like the New Clark International Airport, the new structure will blend traditional and modern elements, offering a distinctive Davao experience.

This seven-level expansion, with a project cost of ₱2.389 billion, includes two levels dedicated to mall expansion, two levels of parking that can accommodate approximately 1,000 vehicles, and three levels allocated to the National University-Davao. This expansion underscores SM’s commitment to providing ‘education that works,’ enriching the local talent pool and creating new opportunities for businesses seeking skilled professionals.

In addition to educational facilities, the new building will feature upgraded cinemas, including two private theaters and two Director’s Club cinemas, complete with in-house butlers, gourmet food menus, and plush leather seating. These enhancements aim to draw a diverse audience, increase dwell time, and boost retail sales.

Advertisement

The expansion also includes two levels dedicated to leisure and retail, providing prime spaces for both new and existing tenants to capitalize on increased foot traffic. The development will introduce new and exciting retail concepts, meticulously curated for the vibrant Davaoeño market.

Since its opening in November 2001, SM City Davao has played a pivotal role in the city’s economic growth, attracting retail establishments and industry players. The Annex building, opened in 2012, continues to house premier retail brands, restaurants, Cyberzone, and BPOs.

The forthcoming expansion further solidifies SM City Davao’s role as a catalyst for economic and educational development in the region. With a planned BPO building and an SMDC multi-tower condominium project set to rise at the back portion of the mall, SM City Davao is poised to continue its legacy as a transformative force in Davao City.

SM City Davao’s expansion is not just about growing a shopping center; it’s about evolving with the community, transforming into a dynamic destination that meets the needs of Davao’s next-generation youth and modern families, while providing a robust platform for business growth and innovation.

Source: Mindanao Times, I heart Davao

Advertisement

The Panguil Bay Bridge, spanning 3.77 km, is set to become the longest water-spanning bridge in Mindanao. This monumental structure will connect Tangub City in Misamis Occidental and Tubod town in Lanao del Norte, significantly reducing travel time between these areas from two and a half hours to just 10 minutes.

Once completed, the Panguil Bay Bridge will revolutionize travel for the residents of Zamboanga del Norte and other cities in Northern Mindanao, making journeys faster and more efficient. This project is a testament to international collaboration, being built through a joint effort with three major Korean construction firms.

Update as of the last day of July 2024 | Photo by: Tangub City Facebook page

Follow us on Facebook for updates on the Panguil Bay Bridge. This project will improve travel and boost the local economy.

Advertisement