Danao City Transforms Vision: From Industrial Hub to Smart Commercial Center
Danao City has officially embarked on a comprehensive rebranding journey, shedding its traditional industrial identity to embrace a forward-thinking vision as a "smart" commercial hub. The strategic unveiling occurred during the Danao City Investment Forum (DCIF) on Thursday, February 12, 2026, where city officials presented detailed plans for this transformative initiative.
Leadership and Strategic Framework
Mayor Ramon “Nito” D. Durano III spearheaded the forum under the theme “Moving Forward,” outlining a series of infrastructure and technology projects scheduled for implementation throughout 2026. City Planning and Development Officer Ramon Gorre elaborated that the city's roadmap is structured around three fundamental pillars: Resiliency, Digitalization, and Sustainability. This tripartite approach forms the backbone of Danao's ambitious urban transformation.
Major Infrastructure and Resiliency Investments
The city is committing substantial resources to enhance its physical infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on long-term resilience. A significant allocation of P160 million is designated for expanding the waterworks system, ensuring adequate supply for emerging businesses and expanding industrial sectors.
Flood protection receives paramount attention through the rehabilitation of "Depensa," the city's primary flood-control structure. Damaged by Typhoon Tino in late 2025, a new ₱13-million project will commence in Barangay Poblacion and Tuburan Sur to construct modern, reinforced flood defenses. Connectivity improvements shift focus from mere road repairs to strategic bridge projects, enhancing disaster resilience and ensuring uninterrupted access during emergencies.
Digital Transformation Initiatives
Danao's digital leap aims to streamline services for both residents and potential investors. The city will deploy 56 free Wi-Fi hotspots across 26 barangays, supported by nine new multi-access towers, ensuring widespread internet accessibility.
E-governance advances through a strategic partnership with GCash, enabling residents to conduct various government transactions and submit feedback through digital platforms. This move significantly modernizes civic engagement and administrative efficiency.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
Danao distinguishes itself as the only city in Cebu selected for a special zero-carbon partnership with Yokohama, Japan. A flagship project is the "Smart Merkado," a contemporary public market designed to operate entirely on solar power, showcasing renewable energy integration.
Environmental protection gains momentum through "Project Nurture," a large-scale mangrove planting initiative aimed at safeguarding the city's coastline. This ecological effort complements the broader sustainability goals embedded in the city's new identity.
Tourism and Community Development
Beyond commercial aspirations, Danao is enhancing its leisure appeal. The "Sidlak Danao" program will develop a new viewing deck and campsite at Mt. Manghilao, funded by the national government's "Green Green Green" program. This project offers both locals and tourists modern recreational opportunities to appreciate Danao's natural landscapes.
Unified Community Vision
Mayor Durano emphasized that this transformative shift represents a collective endeavor involving the entire Danao community. "Together with the people of Danao, we move forward with purpose, transparency, and unity," Durano stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit driving the city's ambitious redevelopment.
