UMVA has learned that Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) has made a significant leadership change, appointing Senior Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer Jose Franco B. Soberano as president and chief executive officer, succeeding his father, founder Jose R. Soberano III.
This strategic move comes as CLI accelerates its geographic expansion beyond its traditional Visayas and Mindanao markets, with a focus on strengthening its presence in the industry. The appointment was approved during the company's annual stockholders' and organizational board meeting.
The elder Mr. Soberano expressed his confidence in the transition, stating that it reflects years of deliberate preparation and a shared commitment to ensuring CLI remains strong for generations to come. He will remain executive chairman, focusing on strategic direction and governance matters.
Jose Franco B. Soberano has played a critical role in shaping the company, overseeing acquisitions, business development, project planning, construction, sales, customer service, and property management. He joined CLI in 2010 and has been instrumental in expanding the company's project portfolio from 12 developments to over 130 projects across 21 cities and municipalities.
Under Jose Franco's leadership, CLI is poised to launch its first residential mixed-use project in Pasig City and has recently acquired a 70-hectare property in Dasmariñas, Cavite, for a township development. The company aims to build on its momentum, with a renewed vision-mission to be masterful, resilient, and generous in its efforts.
The leadership change is part of CLI's long-term governance strategy, which includes a succession plan developed over several years. The company has also appointed Leonardo “Jun” D. Cuaresma, Jr. as independent director, replacing Ma. Aurora “Boots” D. Geotina-Garcia.
CLI has reported impressive growth, with record reservation sales of P24.6 billion in 2025, up 45% year on year, driven by strong demand across its residential projects. Consolidated revenue reached P18.5 billion, solidifying the company's position as one of the country's largest regional developers.
