Naga city: MTD Philippines Inc, a part of Malaysia's AFK Group, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the province of Cebu for a proposed integrated development in Naga City, Cebu.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the proposal includes a comprehensive plan for the 'Balili property' that will feature a provincial government center, a sports and economic hub with a 20,000-seat stadium, an aquatic center, and a food security center.

The development will also incorporate transport facilities like ferry and public utility vehicle terminals, as well as renewable energy infrastructure. The initiative aims to decentralize government services, boost food security, and position Naga City as a crucial economic gateway in Cebu's southern region.

AFK Group's president and CEO, Tan Sri Azmil Khalid, emphasized that the MoU signifies a collaborative effort to explore public-private partnerships and regional cooperation for a sustainable future in Cebu. He highlighted that the success of infrastructure development should be measured by the quality of life it enhances and the opportunities it creates.

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro expressed the need for more accessible government services, economic opportunities, and sustainable solutions for food security in Cebu. She noted that the project would provide significant benefits to the local community by empowering the youth through sports and strengthening economic prospects.

Patrick Nicholas David, the president and CEO of MTD Philippines Inc, stated that the MoU sets the stage for a structured process involving technical assessments and feasibility studies. He stressed the importance of transparency, good governance, and mutual respect throughout the project's planning and execution.

The MoU signing was attended by Malaysia's Ambassador to the Philippines, Datuk Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, highlighting the significance of the project as a symbol of the strong bilateral relationship between Malaysia and the Philippines. AFA Group remarked that the initiative represents a broader vision of cross-border collaboration leading to infrastructure that benefits communities and sustains over time.