ROBINSONS LAND CORP. (RLC) and the General Santos (GenSan) City government signed a public-private partnership (PPP) contract for the P2.33-billion redevelopment of town’s central public market.
Under the partnership, Robinsons Land will construct Palengke Heneral, General Santos City’s first modern marketplace, on a 23,126-square-meter (sq.m.) site with greater than 14,800 sq.m. of floor area in a longtime industrial district, the corporate said in an announcement on Wednesday.
The three-story development will feature separate wet and dry zones, enhanced sanitation, improved ventilation, and security measures resembling closed-circuit television (CCTV) coverage, it said.
Palengke Heneral will even integrate solar panels to support more efficient operations and reduce environmental impact, according to Robinsons Land’s sustainability initiatives, including its solar-powered mall in General Santos City.
“Premiumization doesn’t at all times mean higher prices or exclusivity,” RLC President and Chief Executive Officer Mybelle V. Aragon GoBio said.
Market stakeholders in General Santos City, including the Vendors’ Association and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, welcomed the planned upgrades, citing improvements in layout, management, customer support, productivity, and opportunities for local businesses, based on RLC.
A 3-level mall will even rise nearby, with an al fresco dining area overlooking Sarangani Bay and adding lifestyle components to the redevelopment.
Robinsons Land said the project expands its presence in Mindanao, where it continues to grow its portfolio of malls, hotels, and residential developments in key regional hubs.
Under the agreement, Robinsons Land will turn over the upgraded facility to the General Santos City government after the 25-year lease period.
“The arrangement reflects responsible PPP execution, with clear roles, long-term stewardship, and safeguards that protect the general public interest while delivering skilled management and private-sector efficiency,” the corporate noted.
RLC shares increased by 1.49% to P17.76 each on Wednesday. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno