ZAMBOANGA CITY – Substantial improvements in power stability in Zamboanga over the past five years have resulted in significant growth for the region’s business and tourism sectors.
In 2022, the region posted accelerated economic growth of 7.5 percent, up from 5.7 percent just a year prior, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-Regional Services Office IX. Sitting at the helm of this rapid development in the South, the highly-urbanized Zamboanga City continues to attract more big-ticket projects and major bids from high-profile investors.
Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative (ZAMCELCO), the leading energy company in the region, has played a pivotal role in driving these improvements. Through its efforts to ensure a stable, reliable, and affordable electricity supply, ZAMCELCO has created a solid foundation for businesses and the tourism industry to thrive.
“We’ve been working diligently to improve the infrastructure and grid management in Zamboanga for the last five years,” ZAMCELCO Chief Management Officer Atty. Rommel S. Agan said. “It’s great to see that our efforts have translated into positive effects to businesses and tourism in the province.”
Since 2019, ZAMCELCO has expanded its capacity to deliver 3.21% Annual Average Growth Rate to over 125,442 total billed consumers. The enhanced power production and distribution have spurred infrastructure development, attracting investments and generating job opportunities.
These include the Sadik Grand Mosque—pegged to be the largest in the country, Grand Astoria Hotel Tower 3, a second SM City mall, ACE Medical Center, Grand CityMall Guiwan, Futura Vinta—the city’s first mid-rise condominium, and plans for a new Zamboanga International Airport.
The tourism sector has also benefited from the improved power situation. Hotels, resorts, and other tourism-related establishments now have access to reliable electricity, allowing them to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience to visitors. This has further enhanced Zamboanga’s reputation as a desirable destination, leading to increased tourism activities and economic growth.
Since January of this year, more than 160,000 tourists have visited Zamboanga City, according to the City Tourism Office. With pandemic restrictions easing, the number can only be expected to grow.
According to analysts, the collaborative efforts of ZAMCELCO, the local government, and other stakeholders have been instrumental in achieving these positive outcomes.