FOUR groups, including companies led by businessman Dennis A. Uy and Gotianun-led Filinvest group, have expressed interest in partnering with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) to develop and manage the Balicasag Island Dive Resort in Panglao, Bohol, according to the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Center.

At the same time, one group purchased bid documents for Club Intramuros Golf Course project in Manila.

In an interview with reporters on Wednesday, PPP Center Deputy Executive Director Mia Mary G. Sebastian said four interested proponents have submitted the initial required documents to the TIEZA Joint Venture Selection Committee (JVSC) for the Balicasag Island Dive Resort project.

She identified the groups as Mr. Uy’s PH Resorts Group Holdings, Inc.; Filinvest Development Corporation and Filinvest Hospitality Corporation; Philippine Travel Factory & ST World, Inc.; and Panglao Bay Premiere Parks & Resorts Corp.

Ms. Sebastian said the Filinvest group also submitted the initial required documents for the Club Intramuros Golf Course project.

TIEZA announced last November that it would bid out the 25-year development and management contract for the Club Intramuros Golf Course and its facilities.

The selected partner can redesign, reconstruct or rehabilitate the 20-hectare golf course and its facilities. However, the design and construction will need approval from the Intramuros Administration.

TIEZA said the PPP project requires a minimum capital investment of P250 million.

PPP Center said interested parties for the Club Intramuros Golf Course project should submit a letter of intent and other required initial documents to TIEZA on or before Jan. 6, 2020.

Deadline for the submission of eligibility documents is on Feb. 5, 2020 at 12:00 noon at the TIEZA main office in Pasay City.

As for the Balicasag Island Dive Resort project, PPP Center said that under the 25-year concession, the selected partner may expand the resort’s accommodations and add water sports activities and island tours, among others.

Interested parties should submit their eligibility documents until 12:00 noon of Jan. 10, 2020.

Located in Panglao, the Balicasag Island Dive Resort has been operated by TIEZA since 1989. Balicasag is described as a mushroom-shaped coral island with five diving sites. — Arjay L. Balinbin