Palafox Associates, a premier city and spaces planner and designer based in Makati City, conducted another stakeholder workshop with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Bauang, under the leadership of Municipal Mayor Eulogio Clarence Martin P. De Guzman III, on February 19, 2025, to consult about the three priority areas of development in Bauang, namely: Trading Center, Bakawan Eco-Park, and Government Civic Center.

Included in the plans were considerations for storm surge, flood, and other hazards. Walkways that connect pedestrian traffic will be improved to encourage walking. Bike lanes are also included in the plan and will be a primary topic for the next workshop.

Engr. Ranier Martin J. Calica, Head for the Municipal Engineering Office (MEO), along with present Punong Barangays, recommended underground or multi-level parking spaces to be included in the proposed plan.

The partnership between Palafox and the Municipality of Bauang started in November 2023. They have conducted a series of consultations and workshops with LGU Bauang, through the Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator, Ms. Florence B. Rulloda.

Palafox, founded in 1989, is a company with expertise on “planning and designing resilient, sustainable, inclusive, and smart places for people and spaces that contribute to the overall health of communities and cities.” Some of their well-known projects were the Asian Development Bank Expansion and Clark Freeport Zone.

Written by: Korina Esteban-Ma