Governor Henry S. Oaminal Sr. meets with a South Korean delegation led by Han Chang Global President Kyu-hyun Kim, during discussions on proposed tourism and renewable energy projects in Misamis Occidental. The investors returned to the province with a technical team to assess project sites and explore implementation plans for tourism and solar energy developments. (Screenshot from PGMO)
MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL (June 16) — Plans for major tourism and renewable energy investments in Misamis Occidental are moving closer to reality as a group of South Korean investors has advanced to the technical assessment stage of several proposed projects across the province.
The investors returned to Misamis Occidental on May 28, accompanied by technical experts, to conduct site evaluations and discuss implementation requirements for projects that could bring new economic opportunities, jobs, and tourism attractions to local communities.
The visit marked the latest step in a series of engagements that began earlier this year, following exploratory trips in January and April. Provincial officials view the investors’ return as a sign of growing confidence in Misamis Occidental’s potential as an emerging destination for tourism and sustainable development.
Among those who met with Governor Henry S. Oaminal Sr. were Charlie Wee Yongho, special adviser to both the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA); Han Chang Global President Kyu-hyun Kim; Han Chang Head of Legal Team Song-sook Kim; JD Golf Chief Executive Officer Minho Choi; and internationally recognized golf course architect JD Howe.
The delegation inspected several proposed investment sites, including the Asenso Misamis Occidental Resort and Aquamarine Park (AMORAP), the Asenso Global Gardens, and a potential renewable energy site in Sapang Dalaga.
At AMORAP, technical teams assessed the feasibility of constructing an 18-hole golf course and a Korean-themed restaurant. Investors also observed significant improvements in the resort complex, noting newly completed facilities and ongoing developments that have enhanced the area’s appeal as a tourism destination.
The group also revisited plans for a cable car system and a 360-degree Korean restaurant at the Asenso Global Gardens. Provincial officials believe these attractions could strengthen Misamis Occidental’s tourism portfolio by offering unique experiences that appeal to both domestic and international visitors.
Beyond tourism, the delegation continued discussions on a proposed solar power project in Sapang Dalaga. The renewable energy initiative is seen as a potential contributor to the province’s growing energy needs while supporting national efforts to expand clean and sustainable power generation.
The technical review follows an earlier recommendation from Han Chang Global to align the proposed solar facility’s capacity with the available electrical substation infrastructure before moving forward with implementation.
For Kyu-hyun Kim, president of Han Chang Global, the group’s return demonstrates a commitment that extends beyond business interests.
“We wanted to go beyond just participating in the solar power business to create stronger investment synergy and really give back to the local community,” Kim said. “We look forward to building a strong win-win partnership between Korea and the Philippines.”
Governor Oaminal welcomed the investors’ continued engagement and expressed optimism about the projects’ potential impact on the province.
He said the proposed developments could help attract more visitors, strengthen local industries, create employment opportunities, and encourage additional foreign investments in Misamis Occidental.
As technical assessments continue, provincial leaders hope the projects will pave the way for long-term economic growth while positioning Misamis Occidental as a rising hub for tourism, renewable energy, and international investment in Northern Mindanao.
