BUTUAN CITY (MindaNews/2 Aug) – Construction of the first mall-cum-hotel in the Caraga Region by Robinson’s Land Corporation (RLC) is now underway here.
Robinson’s investment in the regional capital of the so-called “Timber City of the Philippines” is seen as prime indicator of the city and region’s potentials as among the vibrant economies in Mindanao, which include the cities of Davao, Cagayan de Oro and General Santos.
RLC will be constructing a shopping mall with a 100-room budget hotel on its top floors in partnership with Go Hotel Butuan. It started construction in the second quarter of this year and is expected to be completed in the third quarter next year.
The five-story building, which will be situated at the city’s major thoroughfare at J.C. Aquino Ave., will have a gross floor area of 45,300 square meters.
This property development also boosts the city and region’s assertion in becoming a regional hub to watch out as the city holds the 21st Mindanao Business Conference starting today. Hundreds of traders, as well as big property developers, entrepreneurs, decision-makers, government officials, foreign dignitaries, observers and various stakeholders, are already gathered at the Almont Inland Hotel here for the grand opening in the afternoon.
“Butuan is a progressive city that is increasingly becoming the commercial and business hub of northeastern Mindanao. We are glad to be part of its development through this project that will surely generate thousands of employment and attract even more investments into the city,” said Arlene Magtibay, RLC general manager for commercial centers division.
The mall will feature shops, restaurants and four cinemas, including the first 3D film theater in the region.
“This is good because there will be additional entertainment available in Butuan, including a new theater,” local resident Nonoy Amarille said.
The hotel, meanwhile, is being developed by GoHotels.ph Butuan, which will offer among the most affordable rates to local and foreign tourists. Room rates range between P400 and P2,000, depending on one’s budget. Guests can even have advanced bookings by accessing the GoHotels website. The rooms will have amenities like Windsor beds, rain showers, flat-screen TV and wireless Internet connection.
“The hotel will cater to both business and leisure travelers. By making available the most important hotel room features that customers look for, and combining these with our pocket-friendly rates, people traveling to Butuan can look forward to a more convenient and pleasurable experience,” Elizabeth Gregoria, GoHotels general manager, said. (Vanessa L. Almeda / MindaNews)
