Ayala Land, Metro Pacific Team Up for Greenhouse Project in Lio Estate, El Nido

In a significant move towards promoting sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly tourism, Ayala Land Leisure Estates has entered into a land lease agreement with Metro Pacific Agro Ventures (MPAV),who in turn will develop an advanced greenhouse facility within the eco-tourism haven of Lio Estate in El Nido, Palawan.

"Our vision for Lio Estate has always centered on sustainability and community integration,"statedAyala Land Leisure Estates Group Head Cris Zuluaga. " This partnership is poised to make a substantial impact on the region, as the planned greenhouse—with a 100,000-kilo capacity—will provide fresh, locally grown vegetable produce to Lio Estate's hospitality establishments—specifically Seda Lio, Huni, and The El Nido Resorts—as well as to our locators within the Estates and to the local El Nido community. This initiative not only aims to reduce reliance on importation of goods outside of the Palawan Island, but also champions environmental stewardship in the area.”

MPAV President and CEO Jovy Hernandez echoed this sentiment, highlighting MPAV's commitment to modernizing Philippine agriculture. "This project aligns with our mission to introduce cutting-edge farming techniques across the country," he said. "By establishing a greenhouse in Lio Estate, we aim to demonstrate the viability of sustainable agriculture even in remote locations."

The MPAV facility will feature advanced farming technologies, including hydroponics and climate-controlled environments, which will ensure year-round production of high-quality vegetables. This initiative follows MPAV's successful ventures, such as the Metro Pacific Fresh Farms in San Rafael, Bulacan, developed in partnership with Israel-based LR Group.

That facility—the largest of its kind in the Philippines with a 3.5-hectare greenhouse footprint—utilizes modern agricultural techniques to produce 500 metric tons of vegetables annually, all while conserving water and land resources. For lettuce alone, it delivers a consistent yield of 60,000 heads every month, all year round. MPAV is set to doubling the capacity of this Bulacan facility to 7 hectares.

Beyond supplying produce, the greenhouse will serve as an educational hub, offering training programs for local farmers and community members interested in sustainable agriculture. This aligns with MPAV's broader goal of fostering agricultural independence and enhancing food security across the Philippines.

Construction of the greenhouse is set to commence in the third quarter of 2025, with operations expected to begin by Q4 2026. This project brings together sustainable tourism and innovative agriculture, setting a new benchmark for future developments in the region.

To learn more about Ayala Land Leisure Estates' sustainable initiatives in El Nido and Metro Pacific Agro Ventures' innovative agricultural projects, visit www.ayalaland.com and www.mpic.com.ph/agribusiness, or follow Ayala Land Metro Pacific Agro Ventures, Metro Pacific Fresh Farms on social media for the latest updates.