Xavier University and Cebu Landmasters Inc held a concrete pouring ceremony on 23 January 2026 at the site of the Manresa Access Road within the Manresa Town project of CLI along Masterson Avenue. The event was attended by XU President Fr Mars P Tan, SJ; CLI Chairman and CEO Jose “Jo” R Soberano III; CLI Chief Operating Officer Jose Franco B Soberano; Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando A Uy; other officials and administrators from XU, CLI, and the City Mayor’s Office; and members of the media.
The site blessing was officiated by XU Chaplain Fr Ruben B Orbeta, SJ. The ceremony formally marked the start of construction of the access road, which will link the city’s uptown and downtown areas.
During the event, Fr Mars expressed his appreciation to CLI management and Mayor Uy for the collaborative initiative. He recalled that from the very beginning, XU and CLI engaged in discussions on how to address traffic concerns in the area. He also shared his optimism that the project would ease congestion and support sustainable development. He further noted that these discussions started three to four years ago and expressed deep gratitude for CLI’s generosity, the city’s support, and God’s guidance, praying for the project’s smooth completion.
Meanwhile, CLI COO Mr Franco Soberano discussed the new infrastructure project in Cagayan de Oro, the Manresa Access Road, which is being built through a partnership between the public sector, private sector, and Jesuit leadership. He explained that the project is fully funded by CLI, with land donations from both CLI and Xavier University. Moreover, he noted that it will connect Masterson Avenue to Balulang Road and improve access even in challenging terrain.
"A new infrastructure project is now taking shape through a partnership between the public sector, private sector, and Jesuit leadership. The Manresa Access Road, connecting Masterson Avenue to Balulang Road, is fully funded by CLI with land donations from CLI and Xavier University, and supported by government and private investors. Despite the challenging terrain, this project will benefit the public and is set to be completed by the last quarter of 2027, with the goal of opening it to the public even earlier. It reflects responsible development, strong local government support, and our shared commitment to do more for the community and future generations."
Similarly, Mayor Uy welcomed the development and thanked XU and CLI on behalf of the city, emphasizing its significant benefits to the people of Cagayan de Oro. He described the project as a major development that demonstrates what can be achieved when people work together for the community.
In addition, CLI CEO Mr Jo Soberano presented the ₱120-million Manresa Access Road project, highlighting the strong partnership between the private sector, the academe, and the city government. He expressed gratitude for being part of this project in Cagayan de Oro, noting how meaningful it is for CLI, Xavier University, and the community. He further explained that the project is not just about funding, but about what can be achieved when institutions collaborate to support development, improve connectivity, and create opportunities for future generations.
“When I was assigned here [years ago], I went to church at XU and had a retreat at Searsolin. It is wonderful to be part of this grand project, which is the most important for CLI—a combination for putting development in its right place. Beyond the investment, it represents the combined effort of CLI and XU, and it creates a pathway for future generations. With XU’s presence in Uptown, we will see people and development pour into this district. We are happy to be part of this, and we are thankful to Mayor Uy and to God, who gave us the opportunity to realize this project.”
The 2-kilometer road is targeted for completion in 2027.
Communications and Promotions Office