Cebu’s real estate sector is calling on newly elected local government officials to deliver on their campaign promises and implement long-overdue reforms critical to the region’s development.
Anthony O. Leuterio, president of A Better Real Estate Philippines (ABREP) and founder of Filipino Homes, emphasized that the business community—and the public—now expect tangible results.
“Now is the time to prove they made the right decision,” Leuterio said.
Leuterio urged local leaders to pursue systemic reforms that go beyond temporary solutions, including universal access to healthcare and a gradual shift away from short-term financial aid like “ayuda,” in favor of long-term economic programs.
He proposed the creation of an entrepreneurship committee to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which play a key role in driving inclusive growth.
“Businesses generate employment. The government must engage the private sector and identify how it can facilitate growth,” he said.
For the real estate industry, Leuterio underscored the need for a unified development strategy between Cebu City and the Province to avoid fragmented urban planning. Improved alignment, he said, would result in better infrastructure, housing, and investment outcomes.
He also backed the continuation of the P20 rice program as a social safety net for low-income families and called for stronger promotion of the tourism sector—a key driver of property development.
“Tourism is the true wealth of the Philippines, yet it remains overlooked,” Leuterio said, adding that more aggressive campaigns could unlock economic potential that would also benefit the housing and hospitality sectors.
The statements reflect the real estate industry’s growing expectation for local governments to take a more strategic, collaborative, and forward-looking approach to governance.
PropertyNews.ph
