MORE shipbuilding-related jobs for Filipinos are expected to be generated at the West Cebu Estate (WCE) after Aboitiz InfraCapital's mixed-use development in Balamban, Cebu, recently took in a new tenant, luxury performance yacht-builder Cebu Marine Industry Inc. (CMII).

CMII moved its offshore operations within the WCE site to boost the production capacity for its state-of-the-art, eco-friendly boats.

The company is under the Hudson Yacht Group and holds a reputation for its innovative yacht designs and superior craftsmanship, with its flagship HH Catamarans said to be gaining worldwide recognition for their high-performance models.

The yacht builder will manufacture the majority of its HH44 and HH52 orders within the 6.3-hectare WCE site, opening opportunities for job creation.

The production complex has already generated 450 jobs and has a potential to create 700 more jobs for skilled workers in specialized fields such as lamination, carpentry, engineering and electrical work.

"The quality of Filipino skilled workers at WCE surpassed our expectations, offering a superior alternative to our operations in China," said CMII President Arthur Wang.

Balamban is known as the shipbuilding capital of the Philippines and makes for an ideal choice for CMII's operations. The site is backed by the Aboitiz Group affiliates with power, water and construction services.

WCE is also undergoing rapid transformation, attracting diverse businesses in automotive, electronics, manufacturing and logistics.

"The comprehensive suite of world-class services, including top-tier power and water management by Aboitiz, aligns perfectly with our operational needs and significantly enhances our production capabilities," Wang added.

"The growing operations of CMII within WCE is a testament to the confidence industry leaders have in our capabilities. Our commitment to providing world-class infrastructure and services creates a thriving environment for innovation and growth," said Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, who heads Aboitiz InfraCapital's economic estates division.

WCE has an ongoing 39-hectare expansion. An upcoming 3.3-hectare central business district is also set to attract a host of industries. The expansion is seen generating over 14,000 new employment opportunities and boost opportunities for commercial centers, housing, transportation and more economic activities.

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