Insider Spotlight
The property developer, led by Kevin Tan, opened its facility in Barangay New Villa Fria to nearly evacuees, including children and the elderly, after heavy rains caused slope failures in the upland community of Upper Kemdeng .
“Megaworld swiftly transformed its Paragua Coastown headquarters in San Vicente, Palawan into a temporary shelter facility for nearly 100 individuals displaced by landslides that struck parts of Barangay New Villa Fria (Kemdeng),” the company said in a statement on Nov. 5, 2025.
Why it matters
The initiative highlights the private sector’s growing role in disaster response, particularly in remote areas where public infrastructure remains limited. Megaworld’s move provided immediate relief while allowing local authorities to focus on search, rescue, and recovery operations.
The Paragua Coastown complex—normally used as a construction and engineering base—was quickly repurposed as an emergency center, offering mattresses, blankets, and hot meals to affected families .
Public response
Local news agency Palawan News and social media posts showed residents huddled inside the facility. Netizens praised the company’s quick action and compassion, calling it an example of corporate social responsibility in action.
“Salamat sa mga taong may mabubuting puso at kalooban,” one Facebook user wrote. “Pagpalain nawa po kayo sa inyong kabutihang puso,” another added.
The big picture
Megaworld’s response aligns with a broader push among major developers to integrate community support and sustainability into their regional projects. Paragua Coastown, envisioned as a premier ecotourism estate, now also serves as an example of how private investments can play a crucial role in disaster resilience.
The company said it remains ready to assist local government efforts in providing aid and rehabilitation to affected residents.
— Edited by Daxim L. Lucas
