INFORMATION FOR INVESTORS

Rosario, Cavite, is a first-class municipality in the Philippines province of Cavite. It is strategically positioned along the coast of Manila Bay and is a key center for trade, commerce, and industry. Rosario is famous for its active fishing industry, historic sites, and urban development. It maintains progress with its well-established cultural and religious heritage and is a dynamic and historically rich municipality.

Rosario is notable in Philippine history as the venue of the Tejeros Convention on March 22, 1897. This historic event led to the formation of the first revolutionary government of the Philippines, electing Emilio Aguinaldo as president. The convention was pivotal in the country's fight for independence against Spanish colonization. The municipality's passion for Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary has also been an overarching aspect of its culture, and its town fiesta annually is deeply rooted in local tradition.

Rosario has emerged as an industrial and commercial center, bustling its economy in different sectors. The industry and manufacturing sector is also very important, as the town hosts the Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), where various local and multinational firms engage in electronics, automotive components, garments, and food processing. Fishing and aquaculture also continue to play a critical role in the local economy, where Rosario is among Cavite's leading producers of tinapa (smoked fish), daing (dried fish), bagoong (fish paste), and patis (fish sauce) that supply both local livelihood and exports.

Why Invest in Rosario, Cavite?

Rosario, Cavite, is an emerging economic hub of the CALABARZON area with extensive investment opportunities in all sectors of the economy. Besides, the trade and commerce sector has grown immensely with the boom of shopping malls and a surge in retail shops and restaurants, turning the town into a busy commercial center. Besides the growth in economic terms, infrastructure and urbanization are still emerging, with improved roads, public facilities, and green programs to aid Rosario's booming economy and population.

1. Strategic Location, Accessibility, Transportation Infrastructure Developments

Rosario is situated along Manila Bay's coast and is readily accessible from Metro Manila, CALABARZON, and nearby seaports. It is about 30 kilometers south of Manila and 20 kilometers north of Imus. As Metro Manila expands, Rosario is now part of the Manila conurbation, which stretches to Lipa, Batangas. The town is highly accessible via land and sea travel.

Rosario continues to enhance its connectivity, economic competitiveness, and accessibility, thus becoming an extremely desirable destination for business expansion and investment.

• Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) Expansion: The expressway enhances connectivity among Cavite, Rosario, and Laguna, reducing travel time for residents and businesses. It also improves logistics and industrial operations by providing for a fast route to commercial and economic zones.
• Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX) Enhancement: Widening roads and expanding toll plazas enhance traffic movement between Rosario and Metro Manila. The CAVITEX C5 Link project further alleviates congestion and increases access to major business hubs.
• Cavite Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) System: There are 37 bus stops and three terminals along a 42-kilometer route running 24/7 to link major points in Cavite to Metro Manila.
• Port Development and Expansion Along Manila Bay (Proposed): Proposed improvements in fishing ports and docking facilities in Rosario to serve the fishing and aquaculture business of the town. Possible integration with future ferry transportation networks linking Rosario to Metro Manila.
• Bacoor-Dasmariñas-Rosario Bypass Road (Planned Project): This project will serve as an alternative road, alleviating traffic along principal roads to Rosario. It allows for the smooth movement of goods and services, advantageously benefiting industrial parks and commercial hubs.

These projects aim to improve Rosario's connectivity, economic competitiveness, and accessibility.

2. Booming Industrial and Economic Zone

Rosario, Cavite, is also home to the Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), a huge industrial complex spanning approximately 275 hectares, and located within parts of Rosario and General Trias and established through Presidential Proclamations Nos. 1980 and 2017, the CEZ is now a complete economic zone with paved roads, reliable utilities, advanced communication facilities, and a sewage treatment facility. As of December 31, 2012, the zone counted 426 actively working companies with a significant contribution to the national and local economies.

The CEZ is a competitive site for local and global multinational companies since it provides many facilities and incentives to enterprises, such PEZA (Philippine Economic Zone Authority) perks. The zone's strategic position, roughly 30 kilometers south of Manila, makes it even more appealing to investors since it provides simple access to main transportation systems.

Besides the CEZ, Rosario's proximity to other Cavite economic zones and industrial estates, such as the People's Technology Complex in Carmona and the Gateway Business Park in General Trias, makes it a business-friendly environment conducive to development and interaction. All these zones complement one another and promote the industrial and economic growth of the region.

3. Strong Fishing and Aquaculture Industry

Rosario, Cavite, has an aquaculture and fishing industry that has been part of the local culture and economy since time immemorial. The industry's output consists of the town's famous production of tinapa (smoked fish), daing (dried fish), bagoong (fish paste), and patis (fish sauce), and most of the town's population relies on it as their means of livelihood.

The community now practices sustainable processes in the tinapa business using local ingredients and farm residues, which supports a circular economy. Pilots for smokeless kilns have been conducted in pilot locations to address environmental degradation from conventional smoking processes and reduce emissions by as much as 30%. These actions strive to balance the conservation of cultural heritage and sustainability.

However, the industry also grapples with regulatory and green problems. Seabed quarrying and dredging activities have drawn the ire of fishers as these supposedly ravage marine environments and their bread and butter. Aside from this, local fishermen have complained of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) orders to pull down particular structures for fish and aqua farming activities as endangering their centuries-old activity and success.

Despite these odds, Rosario's aquaculture and fisheries industry continues to improve through community action and sustainable measures. It seeks to preserve its rich seafaring heritage and face contemporary environmental and economic threats.

4. Thriving Commercial and Retail Sector and Residential Establishments

Rosario, Cavite, has significantly grown in its business and retail areas to become a thriving center servicing residents and tourists.

Commercial and Retail establishments in Rosario, Cavite:

• SM City Rosario: SM City Rosario was launched on November 20, 2009, and is one of the top malls on General Trias Drive and Costa Verde Access Road at Tejeros Convention.
• Rosario Primark Town Center: This is a community mall in Rosario, Cavite, offering a variety of retail shops, dining options, and essential services. It serves as a commercial hub for residents, featuring supermarkets, clothing stores, pharmacies, and food outlets.
• Public Market: Rosario Public Market is a consolidated market for local vendors under the Office on Economic Enterprise Development and Management. It sells fresh produce, seafood, and other household items to the public.
• Local Boutiques and Retail Stores: Rosario Public Market is a consolidated market for local vendors under the Office on Economic Enterprise Development and Management. It sells fresh produce, seafood, and other household items to the public.

Residential establishment in Rosario, Cavite:

• Costa Verde by Sta. Lucia Land Inc.: A residential and commercial complex, strategically located close to major establishments, such as the Cavite Export Processing Zone and SM City Rosario, which offer residents easy access to shopping, dining, and work opportunities.
  • Price Range: ₱600K - ₱8M
  • Location: Gen. Trias Drive, Tejeros, Rosario, Cavite

The constant expansion of Rosario's real estate industries enhances the living standards of its people and boosts tourist and investor arrivals, propelling the local economy even more.

5. Pro-Business and Sustainable Initiatives

Rosario, Cavite, has a range of pro-business and green programs to attract and host investors. These are:

• Investment Incentives:
  • Tax Credits: Registered businesses can enjoy tax credits amounting to national internal revenue taxes and customs duties on raw materials, semi-manufactured goods, and supplies consumed in the processing, manufacture, or production of export products.
  • Access to Bonded Warehouses: Companies can use bonded manufacturing and trading warehouse facilities to facilitate import and export.
• Sustainable Livelihood Programs:
  • Sustainable Program for Livelihood (SPL): The local government offers skills training and livelihood projects to empower residents and attain sustainable economic growth.
  • Environmental Management Programs: The Office on Ecosystems, Environment, and Natural Resources designs and executes agricultural projects and programs on sustainable practices that promote environmental conservation and economic development.

These programs demonstrate Rosario's intention to create a business-friendly environment to attract investment while promoting sustainable development.

Major Banks and Financial Establishments:

• EastWest Bank: Lot 616 F1 Ge. Trias Drive, Tejeros Convention, Rosario, Cavite
• China Bank: Cbc Bldg., Gen. Trias Drive, Rosario, Cavite
• Philippine National Bank (PNB): Gen. Trias Drive, Rosario, Cavite
• Land Bank of the Philippines: CEZ Drive, Rosario, Cavite
• Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank): Gen. Trias Drive, Poblacion, Rosario, Cavite
• Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI): Gen. Trias Drive, Rosario, Cavite
• Rural Bank of Salinas: Gen. Trias Drive, Rosario, Cavite

Major Educational Establishments:

• Cavite State University Rosario Campus: Originally Cavite College of Arts and Trades (CCAT), this campus belongs to the system of Cavite State University. It has various agriculture, arts and sciences, criminal justice, education, engineering, and information technology programs.
  • Location: EM's Barrio, Brgy. Tejeros Convention, Rosario, Cavite
• STI College-Rosario Branch: STI College Rosario is part of the STI nationwide network chain and specializes in IT, business, hospitality, and tourism programs. The college targets hands-on training and cooperation with industries to produce workforce-ready graduates.
  • Location: Gen. Trias Drive, Rosario, Cavite
• Imus Computer College - Rosario Branch: This private college provides technical and vocational courses in information technology, business administration, and office administration. It provides practical and career-oriented education to students.
  • Location: 2nd Flr., Royal Star Bldg., General Trias Drive, Rosario, Cavite
• Datacom Institute of Computer and Technology-Rosario Campus: Datacom Institute is IT and technical course-focused, offering computer science, programming, and digital technology certifications and diplomas. It has a reputation for offering low-cost, skills-based training programs.
  • Location: Puregold Rosario, Gen. Trias Dr. Rosario, Cavite

Major Medical Facilities and Hospitals:

• Our Savior Hospital: Provides a variety of medical services such as pre and postnatal care, gynecological services, pap smears, family planning, and spontaneous vaginal delivery.
  • Location: Gen. Trias Drive, Rosario, Cavite
• Rosario Maternity and Medical Emergency Clinic specializes in maternity treatment and emergency medical care, offering critical healthcare to mothers and their infants.
  • Location: Brgy. Poblacion, Rosario, Cavite
• Contreras Medical Clinic & Hospital provides general medical and surgical services for various health issues.
  • Location: Ge. Trias Drive, Tejeros Convention. Rosario, Cavite
• Jancor Diagnostics & Medical Inc. specializes in diagnostic services and medical consultations.
  • Location: Main St., Costa Verde Subd., Rosario, Cavite
• FirstCare Medical Services, Inc.: Provides various medical services such as consultations and diagnostic examinations.
  • Location: Costa Verde, Lot 5 Blk 2, Sta. Lucia Drive, Rosario, Cavite

How to Establish a Business in Rosario, Cavite

Setting up a business in Rosario, Cavite, requires several essential steps to comply with local and national laws. Here's an explanatory guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Business Structure and Registration

• Determine Your Business Structure: Choose whether your business will be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or cooperative.
• Register Your Business Name:
  • Sole Proprietorship: Get a Business Name Registration Certificate from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
  • Partnerships and Corporations: Secure a Registration Certificate from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
  • Cooperatives: Register with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).

2. Local Permits and Licenses

• Barangay Business Clearance: Secure this clearance from the barangay where your business will be located.
• Occupancy Permit: Ensure that your business premises have an Occupancy Permit, which signifies compliance with building codes and safety standards.
• Mayor's Permit (Business Permit): File at the Rosario Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO). Requirements usually are:
• DTI, SEC, or CDA registration
• Barangay Business Clearance
• Occupancy Permit
• Lease agreement or title to property
• Notarized Sworn Declaration of Capitalization (for sole proprietorships)
• Articles of Incorporation (for corporations)

For more detailed information, check the Municipality of Rosario's official website.

3. Tax Registration

• Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR): Register your business to get a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and acquire the right to print official receipts and invoices.

4. Social Security and Health Insurance

• Social Security System (SSS): Register your business and employees for social security benefits.
• PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG Fund: Register your business and employees under these compulsory health insurance and housing development programs.

5. Additional Considerations

• Environmental Compliance: Based on the nature of your business, you can require an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) or a Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC).
• Negosyo Center Assistance: The Negosyo Center at Rosario provides business name registration assistance, advisory services, and dissemination of business information. Their Facebook page has more information.

Successfully set up your business in Rosario, Cavite, by following these steps and fulfilling all the requirements.

Cost of Doing Business in Rosario, Cavite

The following are the estimated costs of doing business in Rosario, Cavite, and are subject to change:

Geographic and Demographic Information

The following are from Philatlas data.

Land Area:

The municipality's land area is 7.61 square kilometers or 2.94 square miles, or 0.50% of Cavite's total area. It has 20 barangays.

Geographic Location:

Rosario's municipal seat stands at approximately 14° 25' North, 120° 51' East, on the island of Luzon, with an elevation of around 7.7 meters (25.2 feet) above mean sea level.

Population:

Its population as of the 2020 Census was 110,807. This accounted for 2.55% of the population of Cavite province, or 0.68% of the total population of the CALABARZON region. Using these numbers, the population density is calculated at 14,561 people per square kilometer or 37,689 people per square mile.

• Population by age group: Based on the 2015 Census, the most populous age group in Rosario is 20 to 24 with 14,119 people. The most sparsely populated age group is 80 and above with 563 people.

Economy:

The annual ordinary income of Rosario for the fiscal year 2016 was ₱557,281,640.20.

Languages/Dialects:

The local languages in Rosario Cavite are Tagalog, Chabacano, and English. Chabacano, a Spanish creole language, is specifically prevalent in Cavite City and Ternate. Because Cavite is near Manila, there is also a wide use of other languages like Bikol, Cebuano, and Ilokano

Religious Sectors:

Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion of Rosario. There are two Catholic churches. One is in Poblacion,The Most Holy Rosary Parish, and another one in Ligtong, San Isidro Labrador Parish. Islam was introduced recently by the Maranao entrepreneurs of Mindanao. Other religions in Rosario include Iglesia ni Cristo and Born Again Christians.

Labor Force Statistics in Rosario, Cavite

As of the latest available information, certain labor force data for Rosario, Cavite, like the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Employment Rate, and Unemployment Rate, are not publicly available. However, related information includes:

• Potential Labor Force: In 2015, approximately 72.67% of Rosario's population was aged 15 and above, indicating the segment eligible for employment.
• Regional Labor Force Participation: In 2023, the CALABARZON region, which encompasses Cavite, reported a Labor Force Participation Rate of 63.4%.

For the most current and detailed labor statistics specific to Rosario, it is advisable to contact the Rosario Municipal Hall or the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Minimum Wage Rate in Rosario, Cavite

According to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), effective September 30, 2024, the daily minimum wage rates in CALABARZON Region are as follows

Crime Statistics in Rosario Cavite

Based on the data from the Cavite Provincial Police Office, the Annual Monthly Crime Rate (AMCR) in Rosario, Cavite, fluctuated from 2016 to 2020. Rosario's crime rate has risen. The virtually doubled crime rate between 2016 and 2020 suggests growing public safety issues. Rising trends could result in population increase, urbanization, and other socioeconomic factors.

Efforts to reduce the crime:

Rosario, Cavite, uses social welfare initiatives, rigorous law enforcement, and community involvement as crime-fighting strategies. Along with offering crime prevention advice, the Municipal Police Station enforces legislation. While technology-driven projects like crime mapping and analysis help law enforcement authorities effectively allocate resources, the Office on Social Welfare and Development Services aids vulnerable groups. Community outreach and education initiatives help build cooperation among neighbors and police personnel, thereby promoting mutual trust and coordination in crime prevention. These actions help establish a secure environment for Rosario, Cavite.

Cost of Living in Rosario Cavite 

Living in Cavite Province can be affordable compared to the parts in the Philippines. According to the latest data in Numbeo Cost of Living, here's a detailed overview of the average cost of living in Cavite.

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 (60 Mbps or more): ₱1,300 to ₱2,200

Internet Service Providers:

• GSTech Network & Data Solution (Unli Internet): ₱1,000 (₱1,000 Installation Fee)
• Bida Fiber (75Mbps): ₱888
• FiberBlaze (500Mbps): ₱1,499
• Major ISPs: PLDT, Globe, Smart

Distance and Mode of Transportation from Rosario Cavite to Metro Manila and NAIA

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 Offices

• Mayor: Hon. Hose Voltaire V. Ricarfrente III
• Vice Mayor: Hon. Joanne Michelle B. Gonzales
• Business Permit and Licensing OIC: Tani B. Sabas
• Municipal Assessor: Mr. Regidor D. De Guia, REA
• Office on Economic Enterprise Management and Development Rosario Public Market OIC: Ms. Leah G. Columna
• Contact Number: (046) 888 9600
• Email: municipalityofrosariocavite@yahoo.com
• Website: https://www.rosariocavite.ph/
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/municipalityofrosariocavite
• Municipal Hall: 468A Gen. Trias Drive, Rosario, Cavite

Image Credits:

1. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cavite_Export_Processing_Zone_from_air_%28Rosario,_Cavite;_04-29-2023%29.jpg
2. https://www.crownasia.com.ph/lifestyle-blog/peza-seeks-malacanang-approval-for-thirteen-economic-zones-that-could-generate-php17-9-b-worth-of-investment/
3. https://www.crudeli.it/stories/tinapa-in-rosario-cavite-balancing-tradition-sustainability-and-modern-challenges?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4. https://www.smsupermalls.com/mall-directory/sm-city-rosario/information

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.