Three projects broke grounds in Victorias, Negros Occidental April 25 in a bid to solidify the city’s position as a thriving hub in the province.
The New Government Center (NGC), the Sidlak Residential Complex, and Sidlak Land Development, all within the 25-hectare Sidlak Victorias Global City (SVGC) in Hacienda Loreto, Barangay XIII, “represent a bold step forward in realizing our vision for a modern, progressive, and resilient Victorias,” Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez said at the groundbreaking ceremonies.
“These projects, strategically located and meticulously planned, will not only enhance our governance and infrastructure, but will also stimulate economic growth, improve the quality of life of every Victoriasanon, and solidify Victorias’ position as a thriving hub in Negros Occidental,” the neophyte mayor said.
The Sidlak land development, worth P200 million, covers a total land area of 1,500 linear meters and is vital for addressing the current challenges at the SVGC.
“Through this project, we will construct a network of access roads, install an efficient drainage system, build sidewalks, and ultimately develop a sustainable, resilient, and economically-vibrant government facility site,” Benitez said.
The city said the Sidlak land development will incorporate underground cabling, while the SVGC masterplan aims to create a 100 percent walkable and bikeable environment to promote sustainable and safe transportation options for residents and visitors alike.
The three-storey NGC, worth P550 million, on the other hand, will house the executive and legislative branches, alongside key administrative offices, consolidating government services into a single and well-planned complex… (and is) a forward-looking civic space that enhances governance, urban development, and local identity.
“Its design incorporates biospheric and green architecture concepts,” Benitez said of the NGC that is eyed for completion in May 2027, adding it will be a legacy and model green public building that supports Victorias City’s Climate Action Plan.
It features passive cooling systems, solar energy utilization, rainwater harvesting, and landscaped areas that double as flood mitigation spaces.
“Our current City Hall has long outgrown its original design and capacity. This NGC seeks to accommodate our city’s growing population and government workforce, ultimately improving public service delivery, optimizing inter-office coordination, and promoting convenience for both constituents and employees,” the mayor said in his speech.
The Sidlak Residential Complex, meanwhile, is at no cost to the city government, Benitez said, as this is a housing project under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) program of the Marcos administration.
“This development will be carried out at no cost to the Victorias City government, with our private partners (Scheirman Construction Consolidated Inc. and RS Realty Concepts Developer Inc.), through our joint venture agreement, assuming full responsibility for the construction and development,” he explained.
The residential complex, worth P1.2 billion, will rise on a 2.5-hectare portion of the SVGC and will feature 10 buildings of five-storeys each, 1,241 housing units, and 60 percent green space.
Amenities include a parking area, a commercial area, a swimming pool, a clubhouse, and a playground, among others.
“Our aim (is) to provide affordable pricing and dignified housing units, targeting low to middle income earners to ensure inclusivity and access to decent housing for every Victoriasanon,” Benitez said. | CGC, VCIO photos
