INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS

General Emilio Aguinaldo, formerly known as Bailen, is a 5th-class municipality in Cavite, Philippines. It is a small, rural town known for its rich agricultural landscape and peaceful environment. The town was originally named "Bailen" after a town in Spain. But in 1965, it was renamed General Emilio Aguinaldo to commemorate the first President of the Philippines and one of the principal leaders of the Philippine Revolution against Spain. The renaming was intended to commemorate Filipino heritage and national heroes and break away from colonial place names.

Economically, General Emilio Aguinaldo remains predominantly agricultural, with farming as the primary livelihood of its residents. Despite Cavite's industrial growth, the town maintains its rural character, with limited commercial and manufacturing activities. The town has a modest economy, with a small number of active businesses and local enterprises. Although it is not yet an economic powerhouse, initiatives to upgrade local infrastructure and bring in investments could help propel its development in the future. Agriculture is still the mainstay of its economic activities, and there is scope for growth in several sectors that can add to its economic profile.

Why Invest in Gen Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite?

1. Strategic Location and Accessibility

General Emilio Aguinaldo (Bailen), Cavite, is a rural municipality in a strategic position that provides access to major cities and provinces. Hence, it is becoming an upcoming investment area.

It is approximately 85 km (2 to 3 hours) from Metro Manila via Aguinaldo Highway or Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX), about 25 km (40 minutes to 1 hour) from Tagaytay City, and around 35 km (1 hour) from Naic, providing access to coastal trade. The town is also roughly 40 km (1 to 1.5 hours) from Trece Martires, Cavite's capital, and 75 km (2 hours) from Batangas City via Nasugbu. These distances allow easy access to business districts, tourism hubs, and trade centers.

The town is well-connected through major roads, such as the Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway, and Governor's Drive, while ongoing infrastructure projects like CAVITEX and CALAX extensions aim to reduce travel time further. Public transportation options include buses and vans from Metro Manila to Tagaytay and Cavite City, where passengers can transfer to jeepneys and tricycles heading to Bailen. Direct jeepney routes link the town to Alfonso, Indang, and Naic, while tricycles provide last-mile transport within the municipality.

Future infrastructure projects, such as road widening and transportation system upgrades, would increase accessibility even more, making Bailen a suitable place for commercial ventures, tourism, and agriculture. Its proximity to Tagaytay makes it a prime area for ecotourism and resort development, while its easy access to urban markets facilitates agribusiness development and effective distribution of local products. With improving infrastructure, road connectivity, and access to major business centers, General Emilio Aguinaldo offers promising prospects for investors.

2. Emerging Agri-Tourism Opportunities

Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo is a potential agritourism site that blends its abundant agricultural legacy with increasing tourist attractions. Fertile grounds, cool temperatures, and an ideal location close to Tagaytay make Bailen an ecotourism, farm stay, and agribusiness target. Many establishments have embraced this trend, offering visitors a unique experience of nature, farming, and leisure activities.

Several resorts and farm-based businesses highlight Bailen's agritourism potential. Bailen Bali Garden in Sitio Balong Marami, Brgy. Batas Dao provides a tropical-inspired retreat surrounded by lush greenery, appealing to nature lovers and tourists seeking a serene getaway. Bangis ng Bailen Game Farm and Nature Resort combines game farming with ecotourism, attracting visitors interested in wildlife and outdoor adventures.

With its growing number of eco-resorts, nature farms, and farm-to-table dining spots, General Emilio Aguinaldo is positioning itself as a key agri-tourism hub in Cavite. Its proximity to Tagaytay and main road systems increases its accessibility. Hence, it is a top choice for both domestic and international visitors looking for real farm life experiences, natural getaways, and ecotourism projects.

3. Affordable Land and Business Costs

The municipality of General Emilio Aguinaldo has low land and business expenses, making it a good place to invest. The median price of land here is around ₱2,170,491, with the cost per square meter at about ₱1,501, according to Dot Property. Farm lots are available at about ₱2,500 per square meter, with a 1,250-square-meter lot priced at ₱3,125,000, as seen on OnePropertee. Larger farmlands, such as a 21,291-square-meter property with a water resort, are listed at ₱4,000 per square meter on Lamudi.

While specific commercial rental data for the town is limited, nearby areas in Cavite offer rental spaces along Emilio Aguinaldo Highway at ₱15,000 per month for a 36.16-square-meter unit, translating to ₱415 per square meter. The median rent for commercial properties in Cavite is around ₱481,979, with a median rate of ₱46,353 per square meter. Low land prices and rental costs present cheap investment opportunities for firms, making General Emilio Aguinaldo a viable place to invest and live.

4. Growing Local Economy and Development Potential

The town's economy is primarily agricultural, focusing on crops such as rice, corn, and coffee. Despite its agricultural base, the municipality has shown potential for economic growth. In the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index, it ranked 14th in Economic Dynamism, with notable standings in active establishments (5th) and safety-compliant businesses (12th).

At present, no formal industrial parks are established in General Emilio Aguinaldo. Nevertheless, nearby Cavite municipalities have some industrial estates like the Cavite-Carmona Industrial Estate in Carmona and the Gateway Business Park in General Trias. Proximity to these industrial areas provides avenues for local development and economic integration.

The municipality's strategic location, in conjunction with its agro-based orientation, makes it well-situated to exploit potential developments in agribusiness and supporting industries.

How to Establish a Business in Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo?

Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo is a viable area for businesses because of its affordability, accessibility, and booming economy. To help you establish a business process, you may follow the step-by-step guide below.

1. Choose Your Business Structure

Decide on the type of business entity you will establish:

• Single Proprietorship - Register with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
• Partnership or Corporation - Register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
• Cooperative - Register with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA)

2. Secure Barangay Clearance

Visit the barangay hall where your business will operate to obtain barangay clearance, a requirement for the Business Permit.

3. Obtain Necessary Local Government Clearances

Submit the following documents to the Municipality of Indang for Business Permit processing:

• Lease Contract & Rental Permit of Lessor (if leasing a space)
• Clearances from various offices:
  • Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator (MPDC)
  • Engineering Office
  • Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO)
  • Sanitary Office
  • Bureau of Fire Protection (Fire Clearance)

4. Determine Asset Size and Pay Community Tax (Cedula)

• Declare your business's asset size with the Treasury Office to calculate applicable fees and taxes.
• Obtain a Cedula (Community Tax Certificate) for both individuals and corporations.

5. Obtain Industry-Specific Licenses

For businesses operating in regulated sectors (e.g., food, healthcare, manpower services), additional permits may be required:

• License to Operate / Certificate of Registration / Certificate of Accreditation from relevant national government agencies
• Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Accreditation (for manpower agencies)

6. Provide Authorization Documents (If Needed)

If the business owner cannot personally process the registration, the following may be required:

• Special Power of Attorney (SPA) and valid ID with three specimen signatures (if the applicant is not directly connected to the owner)
• Notarized Authorization Letter and valid ID with three specimen signatures (if the applicant is an employee of the business)

7. Submit Other Supporting Documents

Depending on the nature of the business, additional documents may be required. Always check with the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) of Indang for specific requirements.

8. Finalize Registration and Start Operations

Once all requirements are met and approved, you will receive your Business Permit, which allows you to operate officially in Indang, Cavite.

Cost of Doing Business in Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite

Below is the cost of doing business in Cavite Province, which varies per city and municipality. Data from Cavite City's official website.

Geographic and Demographic Information

This information is based on Philatas data.

Land Area:

The municipality of General Emilio Aguinaldo has a land area of 42.13 square kilometers or 16.27 square miles, which accounts for 2.76% of Cavite's total area. The municipality consists of 14 barangays.

Geographic Location:

General Emilio Aguinaldo's municipal center is approximately 14° 11' North, 120° 48' East on the island of Luzon. The height at these coordinates is estimated to be 214.0 meters (702.0 feet) above mean sea level.

Population:

According to the 2020 Census, its population was 23,973. This accounted for 0.55% of the population of Cavite province or 0.15% of the total population of the CALABARZON region. Its population density is calculated at 569 people per square kilometer or 1,473 people per square mile.

• Population by Age Group: According to the 2015 Census, the most populous age group in General Emilio Aguinaldo is 5 to 9, comprising 2,155 people. The least populous age group is 80 and above, comprising 262 people.

Economy:

The yearly regular income of General Emilio Aguinaldo for the year 2016 was ₱59,180,685.94.

Languages/Dialects:

The majority of residents in Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite, speak Tagalog, frequently Caviteño, with unique nuances and vocabulary. English is used throughout education, business, and government transactions, with fluency in both languages.

Religious Sectors:

Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo is a predominantly Roman Catholic municipality, and churches such as St. Joseph Parish are the focal points of religious activities. Significant events are the Feast of St. Joseph and Bailen Town Fiesta. Other Christian groups, Protestant churches, and Iglesia ni Cristo also lend the town its traditions and character.

Labor Force Statistics in Cavite Province (Based on PSA 2022 data):

• Labor Force Population: 11.7 million estimated population 15 years old and over.
• Employment Rate: The employment rate is 94.2%, the highest among CALABARZON's five provinces.
• Unemployment Rate: The unemployment rate in Cavite is relatively low, nearly a quarter of 24%.
• Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR): The LFPR in Cavite is approximately 64.5%, meaning that about 65 out of every 100 people aged 15 years and over are either employed or actively seeking employment.

Minimum Wage Rates in Cavite Province

As of September 2024, the minimum wage rates in CALABARZON IV-A have increased. It will be given in two tranches: the first tranche was granted on September 30, 2024, and the second tranche will be granted on April 1, 2025. This data comes from DOLE IV-A.

Crime Statistics in Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite

Based on Cavite Ecological Profile 2020, from 2016 to 2020, General Emilio Aguinaldo's crime increased from 28.57 in 2016 to 32.54 in 2017. It went down from 15.06 in 2018 to 6.88 in 2019. However, it rose to 14.60 in 2020.

Local governments conducted community-oriented policing measures, engaging barangay officials and volunteers alike to step up neighborhood watchfulness. Police presence was also heightened through street patrols and checkpoints, especially on weekends and rush hours. They also augmented police visibility via foot patrols and checkpoints, especially on weekends and during rush hours. Aside from that, the municipality conducted crime prevention seminars and information drives, which encouraged residents to report suspicions of crimes and promoted a harmonious relationship between the police and the populace.

These combined efforts have helped make General Emilio Aguinaldo a safer and more peaceful place.

Cost of Living in Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite

Living in Cavite Province can be affordable compared to the significant regions in the Philippines. Here's a detailed overview of the average cost of living in Cavite, according to the latest data in Numbeo Cost of Living.

Housing:

• Rent for 1-bedroom apartment: ₱8,000/month

Food:

• Meal at a restaurant: ₱150 to ₱300 (Inexpensive), ₱600 to ₱3,000 (Expensive)
• Meal at a fast food: ₱100 to ₱200
• Drinks, beverages, liquors: ₱15 to ₱300

Market:

• Rice: ₱45 to ₱70/klo
• Bread: ₱45 to ₱95
• Meat: ₱140 to ₱350/klo
• Vegetables: ₱50 to ₱200/klo
• Fruits: ₱40 to ₱150

Transportation:

• One-way ticket (local transport): ₱15
• Taxi fare 1 mile (normal tariff): ₱12.87 to ₱67.59
• Gasoline 1 gallon: ₱60 to ₱120

Education:

• College/University School (private): ₱15,000 to ₱50,000
• Secondary School (private): ₱10,000 to ₱50,000
• Primary School (private): ₱2,000 to ₱35,000

Health (Consultation Fee):

• Private Hospital/Clinics: ₱500 to ₱1,000

Utilities:

• Utilities (electricity, water, heating, cooling, garbage): ₱2500 to ₱ 15,000 per month
• Mobile Data (10GB+ data): ₱1,000 to ₱ 2,499

Internet Providers:

• PLDT Home (25Mbps - 100Mbps): ₱1,699 - ₱2,699
• Globe at Home (25Mbps - 100Mbps): ₱1,699 - ₱2,499
• Converge ICT Solutions (35Mbps to 200Mbps): ₱1,500 to ₱3,500
• Wireless Broadband (Smart, Globe, DITO)

Distance and Mode of Transportation from Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite, to Metro Manila and Manila Airport

The following is based on rome2rio.com data:

You can check these links for references:

List of Bus Routes

Ferry Schedules and Ferry Services

Jeepney Routes

Note:

• Distances are approximate
• Routes may vary depending on specific destinations within Metro Manila
• Travel times heavily depend on traffic conditions
• Ferry service availability should be verified

Local Officials and Contact Information:

• Mayor: Hon. Dennis M. Glean
• Vice Mayor: Michael B. Manalo
• Engineering Office: Engr. Reynaldo D. Golfo
• BPLO Office: 0916 192 5399 / bplogeac@gmail.com
• Website: https://geneaguinaldocavite.weebly.com/services.html
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/GenEAguinaldoBailenCavite

Image Credits:

1. https://bailenresearchhub.github.io/History%20of%20Bailen.html
2. https://manilastandard.net/?p=314464419
3. https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=258285636708810&set=pcb.258288023375238&locale=fy_NL
4. https://www.lamudi.com.ph/buy/cavite/general-emilio-aguinaldo/

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure accuracy, economic conditions, prices and rates data, statistics, list of development, contact information, local officials, addresses, and other relevant information are subject to change without notice.