LIPA CITY, Batangas — The local government of Lipa City officially marked a new chapter in its history on Wednesday, April 8, with the formal inauguration and blessing of the New Lipa City Hall located within the 92-hectare Areza estate in Brgy. Bulacnin. The ceremony, which signals a transition toward a more modernized and centralized government operation, was attended by a broad spectrum of stakeholders including local officials, religious leaders, and representatives from the business sector.
The program commenced with a religious blessing led by Rev. Msgr. Alfredo Madlangbayan and seven other priests, alongside leaders from various religious denominations. The event saw a significant gathering of public servants and community leaders, including Congressman Ryan Santos Recto, Vice Mayor Mikee Morada, members of the City Council, and various department heads, all witnessing the unveiling of the P1.2-billion edifice.
The new administrative center stands on a nine-hectare prime property donated by Ayala Land, a land acquisition valued at approximately P4.5 billion. According to local officials, the construction of the five-story building was financed entirely through the city government’s accumulated savings from 2022 to 2025. This fiscal approach was highlighted as a move to address the needs of a growing workforce and an increasing number of departments without relying on external debt.
Designed by Arch. Royal Pineda of Budji + Royal, the structure features a distinctive design of 72 elevated blocks representing the barangays of Lipa. The facility is intended to be a “technologically-driven” hub, housing the majority of administrative and legislative functions. The left wing of the building houses the City Mayor’s Office, the Sangguniang Panlungsod, and the Office of the Vice Mayor, while the right wing accommodates vital financial and planning sectors including the City Treasurer, Assessor, and Budget offices.
While the new facility at Areza becomes the primary seat of power, the local government confirmed that the old City Hall in Brgy. Maraouy will remain operational to maintain accessibility for social services. It will continue to house the City Health Office, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the City Agriculture office, and the Mayor’s Action Center.
Located approximately 70 minutes from Metro Manila via the STAR Tollway, the new site is positioned to be a catalyst for regional growth. Local officials expressed confidence that the modern facility will not only streamline government transactions but also enhance the city’s image as a progressive destination for business and investment in the CALABARZON region.| Sheenalei Briana Rayos
