for Rottnest Fast Ferries (Image: Austal Australia)
Balamban, Cebu– Austal Philippines, a key player in the global shipbuilding industry, has secured a contract to construct a 32-meter catamaran for Rottnest Fast Ferries. This milestone comes as the company celebrates its 12th year of operations at West Cebu Estate (WCE). The advanced aluminium vessel, designed by Australian firm Incat Crowther, will be built in Austal’s world-class shipyard at WCE. Set to accommodate 400 passengers and a five-member crew, the catamaran includes ample cargo space for bicycles and baggage, powered by two 1029kW MAN D2862 diesel engines, delivering speeds of up to 25 knots for a comfortable and efficient journey.
West Cebu Estate: A Dynamic Ecosystem for Industrial Success
Austal Philippines’ growth within WCE highlights the estate’s robust industrial ecosystem, which provides a comprehensive suite of infrastructure essential for sustained operational success. At WCE, businesses like Austal benefit from reliable power, water, telecommunications, and construction services, seamlessly integrated to support high-level production demands.
Additionally, WCE is home to a skilled local workforce, ensuring the steady supply of talent required to keep pace with operational needs. The estate’s dedicated seaport optimizes logistics, enabling efficient goods movement, while regulatory services—including a one-stop-shop for PEZA and Bureau of Customs support—streamline processes for all locators.
Since its establishment at WCE in 2012, Austal Philippines has delivered 21 vessels to 12 clients across 11 countries, underscoring its stature in global shipbuilding. In 2022, Austal expanded into drydocking and ship repair services, broadening its value proposition and reinforcing WCE’s role as a leading hub for advanced maritime operations.
Catalyzing Economic Growth in Cebu
West Cebu Estate has emerged as a cornerstone of Cebu’s industrial and economic landscape. Established in 1992, the estate now hosts 12 key locators from medium to heavy industries, including globally recognized shipbuilders like Tsuneishi Heavy Industries of Japan, Advanced Catamaran Composites of the USA, and Cebu Marine Industry Inc. of Taiwan. WCE has directly generated over 14,000 jobs and attracted more than ?32 billion in investments, reinforcing its contribution to the national economy. In 2023 alone, the estate’s locators exported goods valued at over $545 million.
Responding to Growing Industrial Demand: West Cebu Estate’s Expansion
In response to increasing industrial demand, WCE has embarked on a 39-hectare expansion, supported by an initial investment of PHP1.4 billion. The expansion will accommodate light to medium manufacturing industries, including automotive, semiconductor, and electronics, further diversifying WCE’s locator base and generating an additional 14,000 jobs. With four new locators already confirmed, the expansion underscores WCE’s commitment to supporting Cebu’s economic growth while catering to the evolving needs of global industries.
Commercial Complex to Support Growing Industrial Community
As WCE’s industrial footprint grows, so does its commitment to community development. In 2025, WCE will break ground on a new commercial complex featuring a neighborhood mall, transport terminal, communal park, and commercial lots. These amenities are designed to enhance the quality of life for the estate’s workforce and residents, fostering a supportive, well-rounded environment that will make WCE an even more attractive destination for businesses and employees alike.
“West Cebu Estate has long been a cornerstone of Cebu’s economic advancement. Our success is rooted in providing world-class infrastructure and a thriving ecosystem that supports businesses like Austal Philippines in advancing their operations,” said Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, Head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates. “This new project not only highlights Austal’s capabilities but also underscores the unique strengths of WCE—highly skilled local talent, streamlined logistics, and regulatory support that anticipates business needs. Through our ongoing expansion, we remain committed to positioning WCE as the premier industrial hub in the region, driving sustainable growth for Cebu and beyond.”
Through strategic expansion, comprehensive infrastructure, and a strong commitment to community, West Cebu Estate continues to position itself as a leader in industrial growth, supporting the competitiveness and global success of its locators.
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About Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates
Aboitiz InfraCapital’s (AIC) Economic Estates is a leading developer of industrial-anchored mixed-use estates in the Philippines. Catering to a wide range of businesses and communities, AIC Economic Estates’ portfolio includes the 940-hectare LIMA Estate in Lipa-Malvar, Batangas; the 63-hectare Mactan Economic Zone 2 Estate in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu; the 540-hectare West Cebu Estate in Balamban, Cebu; and the newly launched 200-hectare TARI Estate in Tarlac City, Tarlac. The multi-awarded AIC Economic Estates are well-supported by a comprehensive ecosystem of infrastructure facilities and services, managed by Aboitiz businesses, including Aboitiz InfraCapital, AboitizPower, and Aboitiz Construction.
About West Cebu Estate
West Cebu Estate is 540-hectare PEZA-registered Economic Estate hosting 14 locators and 14,000 employees. Located in Balamban, Cebu it is known as the shipbuilding capital of the Philippines, and also features a university, as well as a workers dormitory. A new expansion will also include a commercial district with commercial lots for sale, anchored by a neighbourhood mall with a transport terminal and a communal park.
