Many of Cebu’s go-to travel destinations are often in beaches and islands located far from the city. However, in recent years, certain parts of its urban center have also been attracting investors, business travelers as well as many aspiring Filipino professionals from other provinces.
The most prominent example is Cebu I.T. Park. If you have been to Cebu several times already, then you may have seen this name appear frequently on different jeepneys and buses.
However, if you have only spent most of your time out at the beaches and nature parks, then you might not realize just how cool I.T. Park actually is.
But first, here is a brief history.
The Lost Lahug Airport
Looking at it now, you might not even recognize the old, WW2-era airport and landing strip that used to be where I.T. Park now stands. (Driving around the many towering office buildings certainly makes it hard to imagine.)
Fast forward to the 90s, the Philippines’ savviest real-estate developer Ayala Land picked up the now-defunct Lahug Airport and incorporated the area into its larger plan to build Cebu’s premier business districts. In less than two decades, the property was rapidly transformed into the rising skyline that Cebuanos now see today.
What is there to see?
Contrary to the term ‘business park,’ Cebu I.T. Park has become more than just a place for business. It has become the Visayas region’s living, breathing example of urbanization and city culture. Restaurants, bars and fast food chains line up almost every building’s ground level, with even more in its dedicated recreation spaces (such as the Walk, Central Bloc and Garden Bloc).
Meanwhile, employment is heavily driven by the presence of large, information technology companies and business process outsourcing firms. Thousands of call center workers report to work every night, bringing the entire park to life with activity. And in the daytime, many people still come to eat, hang out and meet with friends as I.T. Park’s establishments cater to Cebu City’s growing demand for urban amenities.
To date, this trend shows no signs of stopping. Asides from the established restaurants, the park is now host to Sugbo Mercado (the city’s biggest food bazaar that showcases the work of local entrepreneurs). Central Bloc is now also home to the park’s own Ayala Mall, thereby creating more venues for shopping (as well as a calendar of exciting events). And to top it off, condominiums are now being established to provide more living spaces and give residents even more access to everything they need in one place.
Getting around I.T. Park.
Of course, perhaps it would be better if you simply checked out and explored the whole place yourself! Parking may be a bit restricted over there, but you can still leave your car at the mall for a while and walk around. You never know if you might find your next favorite bar, or just a convenient place to pick up some coffee on your way out of town. In any case, this thriving business district has a lot of surprising things to offer during your Cebu stay!
0 Comments