Philippine property developer Ayala Land has announced fresh capital investments for its 320-hectare Lio Estate in El Nido, Palawan. The expansion is aimed at capturing rising international and domestic demand for second homes, extended holiday stays and lifestyle-oriented island living.

The upcoming phase of development prioritises community infrastructure designed to improve transport links and accessibility. Planned features include a new events pavilion, a centralised transport terminal and a visitor center to showcase the environmental narrative of the estate. The developer is also constructing an expanded pedestrian walkway system linking Lio Airport directly to commercial zones, alongside a 3.7-kilometre waterfront boardwalk. Furthermore, the existing Lio Jetty will be upgraded into a communal leisure space overlooking El Nido Bay.

A major focal point of this expansion is Sitio Aplaya, a 16.3-hectare mixed-use district situated near Lio Beach. The neighbourhood is designed to integrate commercial retail, residential spaces and hospitality venues within a highly walkable environment.

“The next phase of Lio is about strengthening how the estate functions as a connected, lived-in destination,” said Cris Zuluaga, Group Head of Ayala Land Leisure Estates. “These investments reinforce the relationship between nature, community, and enterprise within a single integrated framework.”

The master plan for the 320-hectare estate preserves natural topography, dedicating over half of the total area to green open spaces, wetlands, mangroves and wildlife corridors. This ecological framework aims to protect the natural environment while providing long-term value for the local community.

“Lio attracts people who want to engage more deeply with the places they are part of—whether through business, creativity, or community life,” said Paloma Urquijo Zobel de Ayala, Creative Director of Ayala Land and owner of local cultural spaces Kalye Artisano and Bahay Artisano. “That connection between nature, culture, and everyday life continues to shape its evolution.”

The ongoing project reflects a broader commercial strategy by Ayala Land to deploy capital into large-scale integrated developments that merge sustainable tourism with long-term real estate investment.