Cordova is a third class quiet and serene municipality. One can aptly notice the coastal ambiance of this place. They are known for bakasi, kinhason and saang.
Recently, Cordova has been in the headlines of local newspapers. Some were quick in urging the investors in buying properties in anticipation of the Cordova-Cebu Bridge (as if the investors are just looking at the medium term in terms of land banking).
The purpose of Cordova Cebu Link is to serve as an alternative route between Cebu City and the Mactan Cebu International Airport. It will hasten the movement of people and goods between the two areas.
Let’s take a glimpse at Cordova. Its been a housing and tourism area with a land area of 790 hectares and a population of 59,712 (PSA, 2015). Its population density is already 7.600/square kilometer. Higher than that of Lapulapu City which has 7,000/square kilometers.
The increase in population since the introduction of Mepza in 1986 increased from 16,455 to 59,712 in 2015 or an increase of 262%.
This development will only aggravate and put pressure on the current land values in the area. Developers will surely vie for mid and high-end development to compensate for the high prices of land. Thus it will not be for the benefit of the MEPZA workers or the common folks that are longing for low-cost housing.
The development will also push towards the implementation of the reclamation projects which covers 3,500 hectares of foreshore and offshore areas, and the entry of commercial establishments such as SM and other light industries.
On the tourism aspect, data will show that in 2016 Cordova has a foreign arrival of 6,633 and the local arrival of 13,693. A very minimal to what its neighboring city (Lapulapu) generated at 1,040,905 foreign and 316,199 domestic visitors.
Development is a noble direction for any locality that serves its constituents. It should not mean snatching the aspirations of its citizens- to have decent and affordable housing, livelihood and a sustainable environment that is worthy for the next generation to be proud of. #
Real LexEcon 