Here GTZ and ADB are financing a six-month program to restore the area. Called Cities Development Initiatives Alliance (CDIA), the program started last week.

“The projects include pre-feasibility studies for CBD which focuses on restoration, renovation and preservation of old buildings and to enhance economic activities in downtown area,” Treñas explained.

“CBD will be promoted as a tourist destination. There will be support programs for CBD’s economic boost,” the mayor said.

Another focus is the eco-port project to be established at the Rotary Park area at Fort San Pedro which will serve as a new link to Guimaras Island.

The feasibility studies will assess the environmental, economic, and social impact of the project coupled with sectoral consultations.

“The program involves capability building for tourism and infrastructure development as well as tie-ups with possible investors. We can’t expect assistance anytime, once the project culminates, we can at least work on our own,” Treñas clarified.

Consultants for Comprehensive Environmental Planning, Inc. (Concep) chair Nathaniel von Einsiedel has been hired to conduct the studies.

“We will study the CBD revitalization with focus on particulars like heritage conservation which is a unique and valuable area as well as the businesses itself given the fact the development of new shopping malls outside the downtown has effects on them,” Einsiedel noted.

“How will we counter such effects? We need to look again at the market, the kinds of products and services that CBD offers compared to shopping malls. There’s also a need for CBD’s physical improvement,” he said.

Einsiedel proposed how to make CBD an attraction to investors.

“There should be incentives for local businesses including tax holidays, waiver of fees in facilitation of permits, and network with PEZA and BOI for access to lower than market interest on loans,” he suggested.

Einsiedel said the CBD study will pave way for possible investors to consider for the improvement of private properties by private investors and public spaces by the government.