From an agricultural estate to a popular tourist destination, Villa Escudero formally enters a new venture in commercial district development. Held on April 22, 2026, the official launch of The Central at Villa Escudero marks a transformative milestone in a sprawling coconut plantation, where a premier mixed-use commercial hub will soon rise, designed to serve a rapidly growing population and capture the increasing mobility across Southern Luzon.

The 9-hectare development leverages Villa Escudero Corporation’s (VESCO) decades of land stewardship and its strategic location to transform a high-value property into a dynamic ecosystem for retail, dining, and essential services.

Behind the iconic Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort, VESCO has long been a driving force in lifestyle development, with decades of expertise in land management and destination building across Laguna and Quezon. Since the 1980s, Villa Escudero has stood as a premier cultural destination in Tiaong, Quezon, offering an immersive glimpse into the Philippines’ colonial history and rural heritage.

“At VESCO, we have always believed that land is more than just an asset—it is a legacy built on respect for our parentage, love for our community, and a deep sense of responsibility for how we grow. With the launch of The Central at Villa Escudero, we continue that legacy. We are not simply breaking ground; we are opening the door to new opportunities, to progress, and to a better future,” shared Rosalie Escudero, president and CEO of VESCO. “Today, as we launch The Central at Villa Escudero, we aren't just building a commercial hub; we are building a gateway.”

Strategically located in Brgy. Lalig, along KM 91 of the Maharlika Highway, Villa Escudero is just 45 minutes away from Alabang. With the construction of the South Luzon Expressway Toll Road Phase 4 (SLEX TR-4) interchange nearby, the development will attract passing and business traffic. The property, with its dual road frontages along Maharlika Highway and the SLEX TR-4 interchange, will then serve as an important access point linking Metro Manila to Lucena City and nearby towns. 

“By aligning our heritage with the progress of the SLEX TR-4, we are ensuring that Tiaong remains a beating heart of commerce for generations to come, proving that we can embrace the future without losing sight of our roots,” added Escudero.

Envisioned to be the “Southern Gateway” of progress for the Quezon-Laguna corridor, the project signals a bold step forward in regional economic development. The Central addresses the growing demand for modern commercial spaces in Tiaong and nearby towns while supporting the increased flow of logistics and travel resulting from major infrastructure developments. The commercial district is also seen to stimulate local enterprise, generate employment opportunities, and provide a platform for both local and national brands.

VESCO is also committed to sustainable progress, following a master plan with a low-impact approach that respects the area's natural topography and ecological balance. Alongside commercial structures, the development will be dotted with open spaces, parks, and walkable areas that will be open to the public for rest and leisure.

In its inauguration, Escudero also shared, “The Central is not just about buildings for businesses; it is about people; it is about creating jobs for our kababayan, giving opportunities to local entrepreneurs, and building a place for families and communities to come together. So, let us build not just a commercial center but a place for opportunity, pride, and shared progress.”

By the end of the year, the developer anticipates several locators and public spaces to have occupied the first phase. The project targets completion by 2028.