Talisay seeks business partnerships to unlock SRP, tourism potential

Local

THE city government of Talisay is looking to attract more businesses along the South Road Properties (SRP) and turn its cultural heritage into tourism opportunities as it strengthens efforts to create jobs and prepare residents for industry demand.

Speaking during the 2nd City of Talisay Business Summit 2026, Mayor Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas Jr. said the city government wants to work with the private sector on an investment framework that would encourage commercial development along the Talisay portion of the coastal road.

The city is eyeing investments in budget and mid-range hotels, restaurants, cafes and convenience stores to serve visitors attending conventions and events at nearby developments in Cebu City.

“I see SRP as an economic corridor,” Gullas said, adding that Talisay should complement existing commercial establishments by providing services to visitors with different needs and budgets.

The mayor also urged businesses to help identify the skills needed in their industries so the city can align its education and technical-vocational programs with employment opportunities.

Talisay City College had nearly 8,200 enrollees this year, while the city-operated TESDA school in Barangay Lagtang produced 1,400 graduates from 2025 to 2026, according to Gullas.

The city is considering creating a separate department to oversee its technical-vocational programs, which currently fall under the Social Welfare Department.

Meanwhile, the city plans to improve the Talisay Landing and Poblacion Boardwalk, renovate the Talisay City Lechon Park and rehabilitate the City Hall Plaza to encourage more visitors to explore the area.

The projects aim to showcase Talisay’s history, waterfront and lechon tradition, giving travelers heading to southern Cebu more reasons to stop and spend in the city.

“We finally give greater meaning to what we have always called Talisay City, the gateway to the south,” Gullas said, describing his vision of a destination where visitors can experience local culture rather than simply pass through.

The mayor said the city hopes to complete the planned developments by the end of next year, while exploring commercial spaces that could be made available to private investors, subject to government requirements.

Talisay Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Macario “Carl” Cabusas II said cooperation between the local government and businesses would be crucial in translating the city’s growth potential into concrete investment and employment opportunities.(MyTVCebu)