Condo Central November 2008 Issue

RISE OF THE SCIONS NEW VEGAS, TRADE HUB IN ASIA’S TOP SUNSET STRIP THE HUDCC CHAIR ON TOP OF LOANS, ESTAFA AND BOUNCING CHECKS

PREVIEW

AVANT AT THE FORT FIRST BARON RESIDENCES Laureano di trevi The persimmon THE RED OAK

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At the center of global business

May30. 30.Photo Photoshows shows(l-r) (l-r)AVP AVPfor forMarketing Marketing Adriatico Gardens Gardens grand grand launch launch at at Aloha Aloha Hotel Hotel last last May Adriatico May 30. Photo shows (l-r) AVP for Marketing and Training Training Jerry R. Rubis, Rubis, Suntrust Properties, Inc. President Atty. Harrison Harrison M. Paltongan, SVP for Jerry R. Rubis,Jerry Suntrust Properties, Inc. PresidentInc. AttyPresident Harry Paltongan, SeniorM. Vice PresidentSVP forfor and R. Suntrust Properties, Atty. Paltongan, Emmanuel Victor I.I. Estrella. Estrella. Finance and and Operation Operation Deanna Deanna Jean Jean A. A. Claveria, Claveria, and and AVP AVP for for Sales Sales Emmanuel Manny Estrella. Finance Victor

A Landmark in Manila

O

ne good project leads to another. Having been involved in numerous projects that help uplift the morale of the Manileños and boost the promotion of this national landmark’s innate beauty, such as the creation of the successful UN Gardens, Suntrust Properties Inc. has not only helped in the beautification of Manila by utilizing the city’s idle lands, but has also proven itself as a partner of the society in providing housing needs to the low and medium market. As a follow-up to its maiden venture, Suntrust Properties Inc. embarks once again on another joint

project with the City of Manila, focusing this time at the Malate area – the Adriatico Gardens. Set to rise above Adriatico Street in Malate, the three-tower Adriatico Gardens takes pride in its modern contemporary architectural design as well as an excellent location. Whether by foot, private transport or commute, Adriatico Gardens gives you convenient access to schools and universities, malls, parks, museums, offices, the hottest dining and entertainment strips – the finest scenes and spots Manila has to offer.

Affordability and quality living have always been the keywords in Suntrust Properties Inc.’s projects. Catering to the low-to-moderate-income Filipino families, Adriatico Gardens’ executive studios’ (21 square meters) and twobedroom units’ (30 square meters) well thought-out design features focus on space-saving and functionality while delivering a high standard of comfort and style at par with more high-end developments. “Despite the affordability, it is a low density project,” Atty. Harrison Paltongan, President of Suntrust

Properties Inc., states. Adriatico Gardens is designed to offer convenient traffic in the use of its common facilities. Its many amenities include roundthe-clock security, provision for an internet-ready telephone line and cable TV lines, a total of six elevators, two levels of parking space per tower, and an automatic fire sprinkler system. The groundbreaking of Adriatico Gardens, last June 23, coincided with the celebration of Araw ng Maynila and is expected to be completed in 2011, Adriatico Gardens is undoubtedly, the choice address for the new Manileños.

2007 Developer of the Year for Economic Housing Chamber of Real Estate Builders Association, Inc. (CREBA)

Suntrust Properties, Inc. Ground Floor, One World Square, McKinley Hill Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Philippines Trunkline: 856 7015 / 867 8701 / 856 7017-19 / 856 7023-27 E-mail: [email protected]

Fax no.: 856 6722

RISE OF THE SCIONS NEW VEGAS, TRADE HUB IN ASIA’S TOP SUNSET STRIP THE HUDCC CHAIR ON TOP OF LOANS, ESTAFA AND BOUNCING CHECKS

PREVIEW

AVANT AT THE FORT FIRST BARON RESIDENCES LAUREANO DI TREVI THE PERSIMMON THE RED OAK

At the center of global business

editor’s note

Vol. III No. 2 November 2008

he first time I remember seeing red, I was in fourth grade. We were filling out one of those customary forms in school when a classmate peeked, and with the benevolence of a paid media man, announced: “Your father is a lawyer? Isn’t he just a driver?”

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Editorial

Danilo R. dela Cruz, Jr. Publisher and COO

Arnold A. Altamira Editor in chief

Danilova R. Molintas Managing editor

T

Had I been a bit more circumspect, I would have pointed out that being a driver is not a bad thing. In fact, a lot of drivers I know are far more honorable and trustworthy than the caretakers of this country. But with my inadequate disposition at the time, I just defensively explained, all the while fighting the urge to send said classmate tumbling down the rolling hills of Alabang, that yes, my father is an attorney, and yes, he moonlights as a school bus chauffeur whenever one of the drivers under his employ fails to report for duty.

Godwin S. Nerona Senior layout artist and chief photographer

Katrina Pallon Layout artist

Edwin Calica Cacayorin, Jr. Daniel R. dela Cruz Renne Isidro Columnists

Maria Celeste L. Tumonong Contributing writer

Shaira Luna moetwain Contributing photographerS

As a general rule, we want to be like our parents, at least at one point in our life. An attack on them is an attack on our dreams. In my childhood, I was intermittently architect, farmer, doctor, basketball star, playboy. Most of the time, though, I was a lawyer. But as the fickle finger of fate would have it, that el-el-bee was not meant to be. I am to be like my father (and my mom, too) in some other way. Happily, there are those who become like their role models. Perfect example would be this admirable group of up-and-coming realty executives and practitioners – sons and daughters of esteemed builders tasked to keep the family business in the family. Busy as summer ants, these young achievers selflessly shared time, thought and twinkling smiles to make this issue extra special.

Ariel N. Valerio Editorial consultant

Chrysler R. de Guzman Creative consultant

Refreshing as their aura is the thought that youthful as these scions are, they genuinely possess the competence, vision, and drive to take their respective enterprises to greater heights.

Sales and marketing

Che M. Ayongao Marketing director

Mavhic A. Cabiltes Grace C. Organeza Cyd V. Ponce Account executives

Circulation

Joseph D. dela Cruz Guiller M. Ramos Mark Jofferson M. Ramos Circulation assistants

Support

Alfred Matrimonio Web designer

is published monthly by MediaCentral, Inc.; G/F Sunrise Terrace, 100 Perea St., Makati City 1229, Philippines; Tel number (632) 812-3333; Fax number (632) 893-8134; E-mail [email protected]; Website www. condocentral.com.ph. Opinions expressed in Condo Central are solely those of the writers and are not necessarily endorsed by MediaCentral, Inc. We welcome unsolicited manuscripts andphotographs. Kindly accompany them with a self-addressed stamped envelope if they are to be returned. While every reasonable care will be taken by the editors, no responsibility is assumed for the said materials. Copyright © 2006-2008 MediaCentral, Inc. All rights reserved. Ipinagmamalaki, gawang Filipino. Distributed by A-Z Direct Marketing, Inc.

Such fitness and determination to soar despite being seemingly wet behind the ears can likewise be gleaned from the story of upstart firm Anchorland Holdings, Inc. Barely out of the starting blocks, the company has exhibited aggressiveness and dependability, inseparable traits needed in a local industry that is progressively packed and a global economy that is increasingly volatile. We have their SoleMare ParkSuites as our main property feature this month. This compact issue also brims with your staple of interesting and helpful feature articles and opinion columns, as well as comprehensive and up-to-date listings of premium condominium properties on sale or for rent. And yes, this issue marks our second year of partnering with industry players in conveying beauty and bliss in high living. As we gear up for our third, we remain upbeat that better, happier days are ahead. The global economic meltdown? Tupac Shakur, bless his soul, hit it spot on when he said: Reality is wrong. Dreams are for real. We have youth– and dreams – on our side.

Arnold A. Altamira

[email protected]

SEE PAGE 5 RAW FOLDER FOR THIS AD

contents i n

e v e ry

i s su e

Editor’s note Review Central The hottest lifestyle picks Condo guide Your condominium hypermarket

4

Columns

49

Legal OPTIONS Bounce Atty. Edwin Calica Cacayorin, Jr.

74

The Condo Café Nine habits of highly successful real estate entrepreneurs Renne Isidro

74

The Global Pinoy Nothing to fear Daniel R. dela Cruz

76

Multiple Meaning Sky high Ariel N. Valerio

76

82

central Market Classified ads

80

Happenings Latest industry events and milestones

94

42

C O VER

S T O RY

At the center of global business

Condo Central gets first peek at a development soon to rise at the heart of the country’s next prime address

S PE C I A L

F E A T URE

54 Rise of the scions Philippine real estate’s future leaders talk about the blessing and burden of being next in line

F E A T URES

Community New Vegas, trade hub in Asia’s top sunset strip

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Feature What say our buildings? Beating Sick Building Syndrome

12 16

Preview Low-density, mid-rise, high-end Heritage homes for a historic city The new, hip address on the block Fight? Flight? Flow. Taking environmental responsiveness to heart

26 28 30 32 34

Man on Top Man of the masses

20

Spotlight Building on foresight, enduring on care

38

Epilogue The future holds a bright promise

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community

New Vegas, trade hub in Asia’s top sunset strip Condo Central gets a foretaste of an emerging commercial and residential hub in one of the metro’s most enchanting districts

Monumental. There’s no other way to describe the astounding real estate undertaking that will unlock the vast potentials of the seafront property located just off scenic Roxas Boulevard, only a stone’s throw away from the international airport, and blessed with stunning views of the worldfamous Manila Bay sunset. Equally remarkable is the progress now quickly taking shape: an exceptional mixed-use development that is at par with some of the world’s best. Combining stunning architecture with a state-of-the-art IT district, luxury residences, upscale shopping, uninhibited gaming, and unmatched heritage attractions like a neoChinatown and Bagong Nayong Pilipino, Aseana Business Park promises to be country’s most desirable address. It is also the new CBD that will best embody the spirit of the 21st century Global Pinoy: upwardly mobile, openminded, and grounded in cultural heritage.

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Unparalleled location Now being developed, Aseana will sprawl across 204 hectares of Manila Bay shoreline, stretching from Pasay City to the adjacent city of Parañaque. On its north sits the historic Redemptorist Church; farther on is the iconic SM Mall of Asia. Part of the Manila-Cavite Coastal Road and Reclamation Project, Aseana is built on land reclaimed by reclamation experts R-1 Consortium, under the authority of the Philippine

Reclamation Authority. The PRA also partnered with various developers to develop the area to include six distinct elements: a business district, an IT district, entertainment,

leisure, residences and and an institutions park. The business park is a priority undertaking of the Manila Bay Boulevard 2000 Project, and a Flagship

ASEANA BUSINESS PARK: An exceptional mixed-use development that is at par with some of the best in the world.

National Government Project being implemented by the PRA on a BuildOperate-Transfer (BOT) scheme with noted developers.

State-of-the-art IT offices A four-storey, Class-A commercial/ residential building enclosed by glass curtain walls is one stunning piece of architecture that promises to turn

Aseana into the top of all 14 business districts now taking shape across Metro Manila, to feed a continuously mounting demand for call center and other O&O office spaces.

Such walls will allow occupants to see panoramic views of the whole business park—and unimpeded vistas of the world-famous sunset. With nearly 6,000sqm of office

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the new thoroughfare parallel to Roxas Boulevard that is a faster, easier and an increasingly popular alternative route. Premium brand locators such as Shell gas station, McDonalds, Yellow Cab Pizza, Jesi Mendez, Mercury Drug and Starbucks have already started operations at the Aseana Powerstation.

space, this futuristic steel-and-granite building is equipped with four escalators and three elevators and Access Gateway-Next Generation Network (AG-NGN). Top business district Driven by the call center boom, 14 new business districts are set to rise in Metro Manila. Combined, these emerging locations will add about 1,300 hectares of alternative developed areas to the now congested locations of Makati and Ortigas. The new areas are the Eastwood City in Libis and the Araneta Cyber Center in Quezon City, Rockwell Center and McKinley Hill in Makati City, Greenhills in San Juan, Robinsons Gateway Center in Mandaluyong City, Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, SM Central Business Park and Metropolitan Business Park along Roxas Boulevard, Newport City near President Osmeña Highway, Filinvest Corporate City in Alabang, and AsiaWorld—and Aseana IT Business Park City—along the Manila-Cavite Coastal Rd. Sunset strip Aseana trumps them all with its proximity to the international airport—and its location on Roxas Boulevard, Asia’s “Sunset Strip”. The strip is lined with specialty restaurants, national parks and museums, theater, entertainment

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districts, and hotels, and found south of the iconic SM Mall of Asia and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Folk Arts Theatre, the Sofitel Philippine Plaza, the Manila Hotel, the Philippine World Trade Center, the Philippine International Convention Center, Philcite and the Manila Ocean park. Within Aseana itself, a number of key locators have chosen to establish their brands: retail warehouse giant Pricesmart, One Stop Shop, Aseana Powerstation, and others. One of the most unique locators to Aseana, Neo Chinatown, is a one-stop mall envisioned to be the new shopping destination for Chinese products and services. Unlike Binondo, which dates back to colonial times, this modern Chinatown is expected to be better-planned, less congested, less polluted and more

tourist-friendly. A first project of Bay Pacific Neo Chinatown, Inc., it will house a night market as vibrant, exotic and lively as those found in Hong Kong, Taiwan, China and other parts of Asia. Some of the best Chinese cuisine will be available in various restaurants and eateries, and traditional Chinese opera and celebrations of authentic Chinese culture are also expected in this modern-ancient fusion district. Retail-on-the-go To tap the market of 30,000 vehicles that course through the avenue daily from Makati and Ortigas to the residential suburbs of Cavite and Laguna, the Aseana Powerstation recently opened. It is strategically located along President Diosdado Macapagal Avenue,

Heritage sites The proposed Bagong Nayong Pilipino project is the first-of-itskind, fully-integrated entertainment and amusement complex offering wholesome fun, thrill and excitement with a theme that blends “Global City of the Future” with the charm of the original Nayong Pilipino. The Nayong Pilipino is a unique, interactive educational park featuring miniature versions of renowned Philippine tourist attractions. It showcases the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage as well as miniature depictions of its natural and man-made wonders. 21st century gaming To compete with similar gaming locations in Singapore, Macau, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Malaysia, PAGCOR will build a modern gaming city in Aseana that will feature casinos, convention centers and other entertainment spots. With its cutting edge IT offices, cultural heritage sites, modern gaming, shopping and entertainment spots, Aseana Business Park is set to be the central business district of the future.

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feature

What say our

buildings? Architect Joe Juson tries to make sense of the trends that characterize contemporary architecture

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t has become a familiar sight: a new residential highrise taking shape against a sky backdrop, registering its landmark address in a typically recognizable locale. The urban fabric welcomes its latest architectural appendage. Can anybody make out a definitive word to characterize the architectural trends that pervade today’s buildings? For over a thousand years inside the gamut of the Classical style, this questioning should have been rendered senseless, for Classicism was a sweeping design dogma. In due course the Industrial Revolution of the 18th century gradually unshackled design from its Classical precursor, and ultimately by the early 20th century Modern Architecture set out and solidified a decisive paradigm for design. Post-Modern amendments were done from the 1960s onwards, and so for some 20 to 30 years now, Contemporary Architecture has become the marquee designation for the overall architectural trend. 12 | CondoCentral

In our country, the architectural contemporaneity demonstrated by our buildings, in general, is rather difficult to assimilate. Not only is the array of building forms quite far-ranging, but more importantly we need to frame the context of design against the backdrop of relevance. By reckoning contemporary design in discursive dimensions, we could arrive at a meaningful resolution to our titular question. A surrogate reality A high-rise condominium is a familiar example of a building set in the middle of an urban landscape. Along with office towers and vast malls, this kind of building sews through its fabric a large number of people who are its patrons. In reality, people are individuals with identities and personalities as unique as their fingerprints. The collective people, when taken as a single persona – the clientele – become just a representation. In effect, this representation actually diminishes reality and relegates a “substitute reality” that exists only in the mind. Treating reality in this manner, one need not study Structuralism to recognize how developers, builders and designers pay attention to, or at least anticipate the clientele’s circumstances, needs and aspirations.

A preconditioned mind Recognizing an object in its form requires attaching an essence or “being” to that form, as if giving life to that object’s existence. One could, for instance, recognize a wall, but this cognition is already preconditioned by the characteristics describing that wall as, say, being vertical, being defined by surface, being painted, and so on. The more that a person accrues to this preconditioning, the more that cognition brings about its potential. Meanwhile, art conveys a kind of cognition that transcends the collective preconditioning. Visual artists could create form from a

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The success of a building is attained by addressing the clientele’s individual or collective aspirations.

cognition that defies the usual collective understanding. Likewise a poet could create form (through words) from a cognition (language) that is esoteric. Nowadays one may have encountered such style terms as Asian, Bali, eclectic, retro, etc., or practical sensibilities like Zen, feng shui, tropical design, intelligent building, green building, etc. The dynamics of appeal that styles and sensibilities exude on the clientele can be thre-shed out by recognizing how substitute reality and preconditioning operate. Complement An architect can create form (buildings) in the same degree as artists do. But the level of cognition rests on the representation (the substitute reality) that collective people (the clientele) could relate to (the preconditioning). Eclectic style, for example, presents a design composition that mixes varied styles into a cogent harmonious form. A clientele’s circumstances, needs and aspirations are a reality that may complement the substitute reality that eclectic design inspires. Contrast Architecture also acts as a psychological counterpoint (or in Structuralist discourse, a binary opposition) to the bustling activity that typifies the kind of life that a clientele leads, or urban life as a whole. Asian style, for example, exhibits buildings or interiors using a calm of neutral and earthy colors, stable and differentiated linear elements, and organic touch on materials. The overall composition fosters tranquility and nature, which are a counterpoint to the disarray and excess of urban consequence. The building, therefore, represents the aspired, substitute reality while complementing in contrast the unwanted reality of “bustling activity.”

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Inspire Our buildings speak through a design language that communicates not using words but forms. The operative word to characterize Contemporary Architecture is “to inspire”. The success of a building is attained by addressing the clientele’s individual or collective aspirations, in a manner that their realistic circumstances (e.g. lifestyle) are complemented or contrasted by the “substitute realities” (e.g. design style) that these circumstances represent.

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feature

Beating Sick Building Syndrome The world market leader in window coverings offers its share to create healthier and more livable buildings

DID YOU know that the building you live or work in can make you sick? No, this is not something straight out of a horror movie, nor part of a plot in a Stephen King novel. This is the frightening truth. A World Health Organization report states that up to fully 30 percent of new and remodeled buildings worldwide can cause Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). The symptoms? A host of ailments from headaches to dry cough and itchy skin, to dizziness and nausea, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, asthma, bronchitis or pneumonia that does not respond to antibiotics, irritable bowel syndrome—to even personality changes such as rage, weeping, paranoia and depression.

16 | CondoCentral

And come to think of it, this is only logical. Considering that as modernday creatures we spend majority of our time inside buildings, our indoor environments are bound to affect our health, our moods, and our overall wellbeing. What’s worse, poor design of workspaces can lead to a huge cut in workers’ productivity, as more workers take sick days off, or simply do less quality work while suffering SBS at the office. Thankfully, because the causes of SBS are known, we can create solutions to prevent or even totally eliminate the triggers. So far, experts say, all the distressing syndromes of SBS are linked to various factors:

• Indoor air pollution • Toxic mold • Artificial fragrance • Poor or inappropriate lighting— including absence of, or limited access to natural sunlight • Poor heating or ventilation • Microbial or mite contamination of HVAC systems. • Bad acoustics or infrasound • Poorly designed furnishings, furniture and equipment (e.g. computer monitors, photocopiers, etc.). • Poor ergonomics • Chemical contamination • Biological contamination One of the best ways to deal with the problem is to boost the overall

turn over rate of fresh air exchange with the outside air. It also helps to keep indoor spaces dry, since damp areas attract and encourage the growth of bacteria, viruses, mold and allergens such as pollen and dander. Some products on the market can help improve indoor air quality. Suspended ceiling systems as well as acoustical ceiling panels and ceiling trims facilitate smoother air exchange between indoor and outdoor air. By improving the flow of air between a building’s interior and exterior, contaminants that enter will not be trapped inside, and will not have the chance to spread and cause SBS. Even simple shades or blinds can

The symptoms of SBS can affect up to 85% of building occupants. Because of this, shifting to SBS-resistant structures is becoming popular, as seen in the PICC building which is equipped with Luxalon Metal Lay-in Tile Ceilings.

SBS can be thwarted by installing shading systems, like the Aerobrise 200 Sun Louvre System installed at the Petron Makati Avenue, which provides natural day lighting and regulates the temperature of the indoor environment.

Modern technology and innovative design help buildings, such as the San Agustine Auditorium, combat SBS through improved indoor air quality and enhanced acoustics.

help prevent SBS by regulating indoor temperature and improving the consistency of available light. Well-designed shades or blinds can provide the right amount of natural day lighting and glare control needed in workspaces— even as they can grant privacy for comfort at home. Lighting and temperature directly affect the human body: poor lighting dampens the mood and slows down the pace of occupants. Erratic indoor temperature can upset their internal body temperatures, making people more susceptible to colds, chills, infections and other ailments. Some of the products that can be used to combat SBS are available at local hardware shops. But for best

results—or for property developers looking to purchase in bulk, a good supplier would be Hunter Douglas. Known in the country only (and mistakenly) as the place to go for designer window dressings—shades, blinds, fabrics—the company also offers products such as acoustic ceiling panels and trims. “Hunter Douglas seeks to improve the lives of Filipinos by making buildings healthier and more livable,” says Gigi M. Lapira, President and Country Manager of Hunter Douglas Philippines. Hunter Douglas is the world market leader in window coverings. It also manufactures other architectural products.

Suspended ceiling systems, such as the Luxalon Metal Hook on Tile Ceilings installed in Shangri-La mall, facilitate smoother air exchange between indoor and outdoor air.

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man on top

Man of the masses The job of the vice president, as the banter goes, is to sit and wait for the presidency to be vacated. Condo Central discovers that behind the merry mien, kabayan is in no joking mood

Photography by Shaira Luna

E

litists and academics alike are loathe to admit it, but Vice President Noli de Castro is a true man of the masses. In truth he is, of our current crop of leaders, the man most in touch with the pulso ng masa. Twenty years as the news anchor of Magandang Gabi, Bayan have made him an icon in the eyes of the Filipino masses. He is their Kabayan who might as well hold the patent to the phrase “Magandang Gabi, Bayan.” For him they feel both an admiration, and an honest rapport.

Such unsolicited publicity (the young Noli had simple dreams, wanting to be a teacher or an animal doctor) has led him to top the 2001 senatorial race. In 2004, he also won a stunning 15 million votes in the vice-presidential contest. More, close to three decades as a broadcast journalist have kept him in touch with the secret aspirations of the ordinary Juan and Juana de la Cruz.

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This shouldn’t come as any surprise. After all, Noli is a man who is of the masses—in a very real sense, compared to even Joseph Estrada or Fernando Poe, Jr., whose masa images were in reality just that: illusions created by the characters they played on the big screen. As for Noli, he graduated with a distinctly unsnobbish degree—Bachelor of Commerce,

OCCUPIED, AND SEEMINGLY SATISFIED. The Vice President is concurrently Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) chair and presidential Adviser on OFW’s.

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popular show where he gained the nickname “Kabayan Noli”. In 1987, Noli became host of Magandang Gabi Bayan and anchorman of the news and public affairs hit, TV Patrol. Twelve years after, he rose to become overall head of production of TV Patrol and vice president of dzMM. The rest is history. Were these simple twists of fate, or acts of God? Was destiny calling? For such experiences have molded a man who is, despite fame, wealth and power, no snob. Today just a breath away from

“As a broadcast journalist, I was passionate about working on the concerns and issues of the underprivileged or the dehado.” -to-earth University of the East. This was even his second choice. His first was to be an animal doctor, prodded by a common man’s desire to help his hog-raising mom. And, like most ordinary Filipinos, Noli was forced to tailor his simple dreams to whatever was more affordable. Orphaned at 11, the young Noli had to help his mother, a simple farm woman in Pola, Oriental Mindoro. “As a boy, I saw my mother’s frustration every time diseases attacked her hogs. It meant loss of income. So I told myself I would like to be an animal doctor. I wanted to take up veterinary medicine. “But as fate would have it, I had

22 | CondoCentral

to shift to banking and finance after my first year, because vet med was expensive and there were four of us in college then.” After graduating in 1971, he began his career as a broadcaster. Working as a field reporter for Johnny de Leon, a popular radio announcer at that time, Noli went on to became a radio announcer in RPN’s DWWW station from 1982 to 1986. After the ouster of Marcos, de Castro joined ABS-CBN. He got his break in television as the segment host of Good Morning, Philippines’ “At your Service”. In a move that his supporters say was providential, Noli soon joined dzMM, the radio station of ABS-CBN, as the anchorman of “Kabayan”. It was in this

being the President, Noli has a folksy humor. He speaks like the man-on-the-street, is accessible to them, and exemplifies in more ways than one, the traits of the common Pinoy: Along with the multitudes, he joins the Black Nazarene procession every year. His favorite food is the simple pinasingawang gulay, and while his seatmates in government are partial to designer barongs, Noli is often in a simple plaid shirt and jeans on any work day. Who can better represent the ordinary folk in the lofty corridors of power? In this country where the elite have ruled with impunity for decades, all the while plundering the nation’s coffers and keeping the poor in a rut, that fact alone—that

Noli is of the masses—may tip the balance. By itself it is already an awesome thing, a testament to this man’s true grit and ability to rise above difficulties. Unlike Filipino elite leaders of the past, he is no brilliant orator with a genius IQ. But neither does he have the overarching ambition and sense of grandiose purpose that has been the undoing of many of our leaders. And perhaps this is his saving grace. Having no pretensions, Noli is unafraid to solicit opinion and advice from more experienced friends. For sure, he will have to strive hard to rise to the challenge. But a life of hard work and a track record of being a “Working Vice President” will help him get there. Most importantly, this “not wanting this position” may be the very factor that will land him the top seat in the land. Because, however unbelievable it may seem, Noli is motivated more by a sense of purpose, rather than a desire for sheer power, or money, or fame—all of which he already has. Unlike many of our leaders, he did not grow up in a political clan, and was not nursed on the milk of ambition. “Like my siblings, I would have wanted to be a teacher. But being just an ordinary student, I thought that teaching was daunting,” he says humbly. “None of my academic preparations and early ambitions would have led me to public service. I had simple dreams, like any ordinary Filipino. I just wanted to help my family. But my involvement in public

A common Pinoy in an uncommon place. The VP joins the Black Nazarene procession every year, loves pinasingawang gulay, and usually goes to work in a simple plaid shirt and jeans.

service evolved because of my experiences. Later on, it became a personal conviction, a cause,” he adds. By later, he is referring to his years as a broadcaster, the time when a feeling for the underdog was first sparked. “As a broadcast journalist, I was passionate about working on the concerns and issues of the underprivileged or the ‘dehado’. Because my family was common and ordinary, I could relate to the concerns of the man on the street. So sometimes I would say: Why did it happen to them?” In time, Noli came to see himself as the “voice of the masa.” “In my early years in public service, I tried to make a difference by becoming the voice of the masa. I articulated their concerns and brought these to the attention of policy makers. Now that I have become a policymaker myself, I tend to be more conscious of the needs of my constituents, more aware of their concerns. I do not only hear them, I listen to them, and find ways of addressing their problems. “To make a difference in the lives of many people—that I would consider as my highest achievement.” A look at the 139 bills he passed during his time at the Senate will show this preoccupation with wanting to uplift the lives of the underdog. Most of these bills have to do with matters that make a dent in the everyday lives of simple folk: establishing public high schools in every town, granting scholarships for underprivileged youth, increasing the wages of public school teachers and law enforcement agents, giving preference to out-of-school youth

24 | CondoCentral

“Whatever happens in 2010, I intend to continue serving our people—as a public servant and as a good citizen of our republic.” in local infrastructure projects, or protecting senior citizens, women against mail order schemes, and children from incest. “Years from now, I hope to look back to see the happy faces of families that have benefited from my work—ordinary Filipinos who

were able to own their houses, ordinary workers who were able to provide for the needs of their families, children who were able to finish their studies, communities living together in peace. “That, I hope would be my lifetime achievement.”

Coming from anyone else, this may seem a bit arrogant—or even messianic. But from a man of the masses, it is only fitting. Now whether this man from the masses becomes a man for masses—only time will tell.

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preview

Low-density, mid-rise, high-end An emergent development company with a keen understanding of the homeowner’s psyche offers exclusivity and expansiveness in the midst of a cramped metropolis

Over the past decade, Wee Community Developers, Inc. (WCDI) has been silently servicing an utterly distinct clientele – home seekers who give a premium on intimate, comfortable, and luxurious living spaces. From sprawling subdivisions to towering high-rises, this family-run realty firm has stayed true to its vision of developing only cutting-edge, yet competitively-priced residential projects. First Baron Residences, a mid-rise condominium soon to emerge in the charmingly divergent city of San Juan, is the

latest in WCDI’s growing list of acclaimed ventures. Set along A. Mabini St., a major though uncongested city artery, First Baron Residences is conveniently linked to premier commercial centers, leading educational institutions, world-class leisure sites, and major hospitals and health facilities. Young professionals and start-up families are sure to be regaled by the lifestyle that a home at First Baron Residences holds. Apart from its absolutely prime location, the property boasts of living spaces and

supplementary attractions that evoke an inimitable sense of opulence and distinction. Unit cuts, by industry standards, are definitely huge. The biggest unit is a 165sqm, three-bedroom bi-level unit. It can, in fact, pass for a townhouse inside a condo building. The bedrooms can fit two king size beds, and the dining area can easily accommodate a large eight-seater dining table. The modern-tropical masterpiece rises seven storeys and is comprised of only of 30 residential units. A

sense of community is easily nurtured among homeowners under this setup. Moreover, property management becomes easier, translating to better and more efficient service for residents. For instance, shuttle service is provided that would bring unit owners’ children to school, and other household members to the supermarket as well as to other major establishments around the area. Meanwhile, peace of mind is a resolute guarantee in this stylish, ultra-modern haven. Apart from

round-the-clock security, all common areas within the property are monitored by close-circuit television, while main doors are equipped with keycard systems. A lobby receptionist knows homeowners by name and monitors guests and visitors who drop by the place. First Baron Residences is set to be turned over to a select few by December of 2009.

CONTEMPORARY, INVITING, COZY. The interiors convey a refreshing look that is not too busy nor too bland.

For more information, call 725-5385, 0917-51-BARON or 0922-8-WEECOM.

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preview

Heritage homes for a historic city

Boasting of uniquely restful yet exotic design by a world-renowned designer, The Persimmon significantly complements this historic city, and bring to its vecinos a simplified yet richer lifestyle 28 | CondoCentral

The first Philippine city discovered by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, Cebu was for centuries a southeast Asian trading post, found along the trade routes to Borneo, Indonesia, China and Arabia. And for centuries after that momentous discovery, it was a colonial stronghold of the Spanish crown. Few properties can capture this deep heritage, and do justice to it. Except perhaps, The Persimmon. This 1.4-hectare themed urban village is set to rise along M. J. Cuenco Avenue in Mabolo, Cebu City. Situated within minutes of the city’s central business district, historical sites, places of worship and academic institutions, The Persimmon is designed to be Cebu’s ultimate city address. It is made up of a cluster of four low-rise condominium towers and commercial buildings, with its West Tower set to be turned over by 2010. The commercial strip, expected to draw a mix of trendy restaurants, bistros, cafés, and other upscale establishments, is expected to be open a year earlier. It will feature generous greenscapes and a host of amenities: function and board rooms, play courts and swimming pools. Each of the condominium towers will have a separate administration and security offices. Landscape design is expected to be unique, exotic and restful. It is being done by the famous PGAA Creative Design, designer of the Banyan Tree Group in Indonesia, the Hainan Mandarin, Sutera Harbor Project in Kota Kinabalu and the NTUC Resort in Sentosa, Singapore. Architecture, meanwhile, is done by award-winning

architects Recio + Casas. The project, named after the ornamental mabolo tree, which flourished along Cebu’s east coast before the onset of modernization, aims to restore this tree to its former glory. Thus, the property will be planted generously with mabolo trees, which bear attractive, striking, bright red fruits. “Persimmon” is the English name for the trees classified under the genus Diospyros, which includes the Philippine mabolo. The project logo, of the tangerine

Washington National Airport, the Calvin Klein showroom and SM Megamall as some of its projects, is part of The Persimmon design team. The development also lays claim to some of the country’s best consultants: for structural development, it is international contractors R. S. Ison and Associates; for mechanical, sanitary and plumbing consultancy it is Isagani M. Martinez; and for electrical engineering consultancy, it is R. A. Mojica and Partners. The Persimmon is being built on

and crimson hues of the mabolo fruit and its leaves, is meant to reflect the aims of the development itself—which is to bring a simplified yet richer lifestyle to its vecinos. Aboitiz Land, the developers, have opted to call future buyers vecinos, which is the Spanish word for neighbors, because the word aptly captures the deep Spanish cultural influence on this centuries-old city. Renowned lighting designer Christine Sicangco Lighting Design, Inc. (CSLDI), which boasts of the

the site of the former Cebu Oxygen and Acetylene Corporation (COACO) building. Construction of the 15-storey West Tower was started in the second quarter of this year, and will be turned over to vecinos within two years. This tower will have 157 studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and loft units. The building will have storage rooms and three stories of parking for cars and motorcycles.

preview

The new, hip address on the block Take a look inside today's hip address for sophisticated, cosmopolitan, sustainable living

ARE YOU smart, hip, a cut above the rest? Are you young and up-and-coming? If you think you are, the Laureano di Trevi Towers is the perfect address for you. After all, to be hip in the 21st century is to earn gigabucks doing just your kind of thing—and to live a sophisticated, cosmopolitan life in sustainable, integrated, 21st century dwellings. The three Trevi Towers offer just that. Superior to other inner city dwellings, these three state-of-the-art towers boast an energy efficient design that harnesses the wind from all sides and uses it for natural ventilation, providing residents a comfortable indoor temperature all year round. Each tower is also designed to provide stunning, unobstructed views of the Makati skyline and the Manila Bay sunset, while enhancing natural ventilation and lighting. Designed by the world-famous, Palafox Associates, the towers use ventilation grating, sunsheds and heat-reflective exterior closures. The towers’ location also draws on futuristic principles of integrated living where work spaces are located close to home—a boon not only for dwellers, but an environmentally- proper arrangement as well, since less travel uses up less petrol and produces less global warming gases. The Trevi Towers are located at Pasong Tamo, near the Makati Central Business District and a short walk away from shopping, entertainment, and all other life necessities. Over 1,000 exclusive residences are available at Trevi: Tower 1 has 28 storeys; Tower II is a 37-storey rise, while Tower III has 24 levels. A selection of units is now available at Trevi

30 | CondoCentral

Tower III with prices for as low as Php7,000 per month; the other two towers have been sold out. On offer are one-bedroom units of 20.4sqm and two-bedroom units with 31.23sqm. The first five levels of each tower serves as the podium. The ground level accommodates commercial establishments, the second to fifth floors are allotted for parking spaces for residents, and the podium’s roof deck houses first-class amenities and facilities for a comfortable urban lifestyle. Landscaped gardens, a promenade and al fresco areas are found at Trevi’s Sky Plaza. Another reason that makes the

Trevi Towers the perfect place for the yuppie is that its location is easily accessible to any point from the north and south via the Sergio Osmeña highway (South Superhighway), and from the east and west via the Antonio Arnaiz Road (Pasay Road). The Trevi Towers builds on the success of the Pacific Residences, which recently held its topping off. All units have already been sold out, save for a handful of Queen homes, although these are moving fast. The Queen model unit is still available for viewing at the site. Proud homeowners of Pacific Residences units can start moving in soon, even as the recreational facilities and other amenities are scheduled to be completed by 2009.

Laureano di Trevi Towers is Camella Prestige’s latest inner city development. As part of Camella, the country’s largest home builder and proud member of Vista Land & Lifescapes, Inc., Prestige provides affordable, quality homes that offer better lifestyle choices. Vista Land is the only developer in the Philippines that offers a full spectrum of horizontal and vertical residential projects that are affordable for clients of all income brackets.

For inquiries, call 496-2421, 844-1738 or 09178576409.

HARMONY and style. Live in harmonious, eco-friendly spaces created for you by the Trevi Towers.

CondoCentral | 31

preview

Fight? Flight?

Flow.

To flow may be your best response to modern-day stress, and this new project in the heart of the fastest-rising urban location provides residents a place where they can work to do just that

The development is built around the theme: creating total wellness in the urban landscape.

32 | CondoCentral

THE saber-toothed tiger is long gone, but the modern jungle is no less perilous. Anxiety over a deadline, a tight plane connection, a reckless driver on one's tail—these are new predators that set modern humans on the edge. In prehistoric times, flight or flight was the proper response. But today’s fast-paced, highly-connected world leaves little room for aggression or flight. The fight-or-flight instinct in today’s world, in fact, is not only inappropriate, but downright dangerous. Says Harvard Cardiologist Herbert Benson, “When you get a

Wall Street broker to use the same responses a cave man used to fight the elements, you've got a problem.” Fully two-thirds of visits to the doctor today are stress-related, notes the American Academy of Family Physicians. And, as we all know, stress is a major contributor to coronary heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidental injuries, cirrhosis of the liver and suicide—the six leading causes of death in the US. Thus, Alveo Land Corp., Ayala Land's standard bearer for innovation, proposes a new response to modernday stress: “to flow”.

With this in mind, Alveo Land embarked on the second high-rise section of Two Serendra, The Red Oak, built around the theme: creating total wellness in the urban landscape. Like The Aston, its successful first high rise project within the Two Serendra complex, The Red Oak is located in the plush Bonifacio Global City. The new condominium aims to bring to residents the tranquility of suburbia within the heart of the fastest rising urban location. "In The Red Oak, urbanites don't have to flee to escape stress. A short drive or a few steps to their homes means that they're already in a sanctuary of wellness," says Nerissa N. Josef, Vice President for Project Development. Apart from being a walk away from the metro's prime business and

lifestyle destinations, The Red Oak's in-house amenities are also designed to be a sanctuary where residents can fortify themselves to cope with stress. Community amenities are meant to nurture spiritual well-being: Amenities include reflection ponds, tranquil gardens and a prayer room, and ideal for self-renewal. Sunken decks, massage pavilions and leisure pools offer pleasant opportunities to rejuvenate. Residents can also head to the Earth Lounge or Sky Lounge with a book or laptop in hand. The Red Oak also has a yoga studio that residents can use to connect with oneself. It also features Kinesis, the newest concept in exercise equipment in the market today, allowing for fitness and flexibility work-outs in a gentle, non-intimidating space with freedom of movement leading to wellness.

There is also a music room and theater room with a baby grand piano and good acoustics where residents can relax, practice, perform or play with others. This room opens to a sound garden where one can draw inspiration from the sunset on a landscaped garden, while listening to music of one’s choice.

Alveo Land Corp., formerly Community Innovations, sets the benchmark for innovation in Ayala Land. For more information, visit www.alveoland.com.ph, email info@ alveosales.com.ph, or call (+632) 848 5100 (Metro Manila) and 1-800-108485100 (outside Metro Manila). Model units are available for viewing at the Serendra Sales Pavilion located at 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, everyday from 9am to 8pm.

CondoCentral | 33

preview

Taking environmental responsiveness to heart A new development from a pioneering company allows one to experience the vim and vigor of urban life while never being far from a soothing patch of green

As the coldness of glass, steel and concrete continues to shape the fast-evolving cityscape, it is refreshing to know that certain sectors are consciously looking to inject the warmth of “green” into their developments. Brittany Corporation, a proud affiliate of Vista Land and Lifescapes, is one company that takes environmental responsiveness to heart. For years, the maverick realty firm has successfully launched masterplanned communities characterized by thematic appeal, rich architectural detail, and toprate craftsmanship. This, they undertake while seeking to achieve

34 | CondoCentral

not only ecological but also aesthetic harmony between structures and their surrounding natural and built environment. Nothing underlines this commitment better than Avant at the Fort, a 38-storey residential condominium that mindfully makes use of eco-friendly construction materials, and where touches of nature are lavishly integrated into the design of the building’s interface as well as its individual units. To minimize the energy load within and on the structure, the building is oriented such that it takes advantage of cooling breezes and

THE LATITUDE OF CHOICE. Available at Avant are onebedroom, two-bedroom, threebedroom, and loft units.

CondoCentral | 35

sunlight. Daylighting with ample windows eliminate the need to switch electric lights on during the day, in addition to providing wellframed, majestic views. Moreover, Avant’s blueprint allows the invigorating elements of the outdoors to be brought inside the building. Indoor gardens and other patches of green are attractively interspersed with the common areas,

evoking an unmistakable calming tropical vibe. Sitting on 1,986 sqm of what is regaded as the last remaining prime spot within the “golden triangle” at the heart of Crescent Park West at the Bonifacio Global City, Avant at the Fort is a low-density development that is made up of well-appointed and sensibly laid out residential units. Meanwhile, Avant’s other luxurious attractions include a lounge at its high-ceiling, hotel-like lobby; 24-hour concierge services; a free-form pool with sundeck; a fully-equipped gym; and a Sky Garden. Recently, Brittany Corporation afforded the general public a peek at the luxuriant Avant lifestyle with the unveiling of the project’s model unit. Located at the at the ground floor of First Midland Condominium in Gamboa Street in Legaspi Village, the showroom features a stylish one-bedroom loft unit that certainly captures the essence of Avant’s green and grand philosophy.

CondoCentral | 37

spotlight

VIP TREATMENT. ALHI Chairman Stephen Lee (L) and Vice-chairman Steve Li consider associates and clients as valued business partners.

38 | CondoCentral

Building on foresight,

enduring on care Condo Central reacquaints with a dynamic, young company that is bent on creating sophisticated and luxurious residential condominium developments for an increasingly discriminating market

In an increasingly saturated industry where more and more players are attracted by the property boom, newcomer Anchor Land Holdings, Inc. (ALHI) is steadily carving out its niche. The company sees potential where other developers see nothing. If you were to judge by its first projects, it would seem that ALHI is intent on revitalizing the old Manila— that historic community of Ermita as home to affluent families, and Binondo as the center of trade and commerce. Only on its fourth year of operations, ALHI has managed to penetrate the traditionally wary and reticent Filipino-Chinese business communities in Binondo and Chinatown, building high-rise, high-end residential condominiums there: the Lee Tower, the Mayfair Tower and the Mandarin Square. “With buyers, if you are able to deliver ahead of schedule, next time if they need something, they will come to you or they will refer their friends,” says Steven Li, vice chairman of ALHI. The company has also built a good and solid reputation among its clients. Today it is well-known in the Filipino-Chinese community as a developer that delivers on-time—and with high quality. Indeed, ALHI’s strength is keeping clients satisfied by providing a good product and finishing on the promised date. Anchor Land’s main concern is simply, the buyer. Its mission? “We care for what they want and we’re here to deliver,” says Li. Average turnover time for an Anchor Land development is three

years—breakneck by industry standards. Apart from its current projects, Anchor Land also aims to continue making a name for itself as a developer that values homes and growth. Only recently, ALHI made it to this year’s top 200 Best Under A $Billion list of the prestigious Forbes Magazine, an annual compilation of the best companies in the Asia-Pacific region with under $1 billion in sales. The winners were selected from over 24,000 publicly listed outfits from 15 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, India, China and Hong Kong. The distinction is shared with only one other Philippine company. Indicative of its pioneering spirit, when the company builds, other developers inevitably follow.

One standout example is its SoleMare ParkSuites, built smack in the middle of what has been called the business district of the future. Aseana Business Park is a mixeduse development now being built on a seafront property located just off scenic Roxas Boulevard, only a stone’s throw away from the international airport, which also boasts of stunning views of the world-famous Manila Bay sunset. Anchor Land was one of the first real estate developers to recognize the need for residential development here. By 2011, ALHI’s 18-storey twin tower is expected to be a stand out at the Aseana Business Park as the first homes in that mini-city of the future. ALHI is growing surely and steadily, and has plans to expand.

The secret to its steady growth lies in open communication. Li believes that open communication allows all parties to be informed and educated partners, and not just distinct groups that function separately from the whole. Li also has a beneficial penchant for thinking of all personalities in any project as VIPs. From the buyers to the investors, from the architects to the board of directors, Li consider everyone a VIP and a partner. Because of this, a good number of SoleMare ParkSuites unit buyers are not first-time customers of Anchor Land: They have placed their trust that the company. And the company, in turn, does not fail them.

CondoCentral | 39

CondoCentral | 41

cover story

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SoleMare ParkSuites

At the center

of global

business

Condo Central gets first peek at a development that is soon to rise in the midst of arguably the country’s next most important business, leisure, and residential address CondoCentral | 43

H

aving started operations only in 2004, Anchorland Holdings, Inc. (ALHI) is practically just an industry toddler. However, going by its glowing milestones, this teething realty firm may very well have already grown fangs, as it aggressively and purposefully bites into the vastly competitive vertical residential development pie. Initially focusing its efforts on building luxurious and sophisticated condominium projects in the bustling Binondo district, ALHI has so far successfully constructed three high-rise residences in the area. And in its relentless drive to provide world class, high-end real estate projects while ensuring excellent after sales service, the company has now set its sights on blazing trails in other locations in the metropolis.

SoleMare ParkSuites, an 18-storey, twin tower development soon to rise at the bay area in the progressive city of Paranaque is ALHI’s latest offering. Envisioned to be a practical yet stylish home to young and upwardly mobile professionals and business executives, the project will be one of the first residential developments to emerge in what is touted as the next major business, entertainment and tourism hub in the country. Sitting on prime real estate within the Aseana Business Park along Roxas Boulevard, SoleMare

44 | CondoCentral

ParkSuites’ construction is spearheaded by the country’s foremost names in architecture and engineering. Its ultra-modern structural and design blueprint is suitably complemented by its locale’s charming natural verve. The development enjoys an unhampered dose of the calming vista and the hypnotic breeze emanating from scenic Manila Bay. Of course, another unreplicable add-on is the incomparable spectacle of Manila’s glorious sunset. Meanwhile, the project features smart living spaces as well as comprehensive facilities

and services. Units range from the 27sqm studio to the 60sqm four-bedroom, all turned over fully furnished and fitted. The architecturally-friendly layout allows units to be readily combined, giving homeowners the desired space and design latitude. The thoroughly secured community is likewise provided adequate amenities and activity areas that serve as the residents’ home extension. The entire third level of each building is in fact dedicated to such. A lap pool sits at the heart of the section, and is surrounded by function nooks

PLANNING and CONCEPTUALIZATION: Every step of the construction process, ALHI is on top. Here, ALHI VP for Sales and Marketing Elizabeth Ventura (left) confers with interior designers Monica Sarmiento of Inspired Interiors and Ivy Crisostomo of About Designs, Inc. as preparations get underway for the grand launch of the Solemare Parksuites showroom. (Not in photo is Ito Kish of Gallado designs)

CondoCentral | 45

STYLING: Careful attention to detail typifies ALHI’s efforts to develop a functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing space for future residents.

where residents can entertain guests for intimate gatherings and get-togethers. A mini theater is likewise available and can accommodate up to 15 people. And in anticipation of the hi-tech lifestyle of its residents, SoleMare ParkSuites is made Wi-Fi ready. Shuttle service around Aseana Business Park and its neighboring developments is also thrown in for the utmost convenience of residents.

46 | CondoCentral

Arguably, however, SoleMare ParkSuites’ biggest come-on is that it will rise smack in the middle of the country’s next indisputable prime location. A mere 10 minutes from the international and domestic airports, the area’s master plan promises a grand, contiguous smorgasbord of the biggest and finest business offices, entertainment centers, leisure facilities, and residential clusters.

SHOWCASE: The Solemare ParkSuites model unit encapsulates the lifestyle that the development promises: a haven where possibilities shine bright and life flows freely.

The development’s draw as both home and as investment can readily be seen from brisk and steady sales. In fact, the first of the two towers is already 70% sold – even without the benefit yet of model units or a showroom. Even more surprising, clients have been buying by multiple units, even by entire floors. Friendly and flexible payment terms make this decidedly possible. Set to be turned over by the second quarter of 2011, SoleMare

ParkSuites is yet another glowing testament to ALHI’s determined commitment to bringing only quality products in utterly prime locations. SoleMare ParkSuites model units are located across the project site: Lot-5A Bradco Avenue, Aseana Business Park, Parañaque City (near McDonald’s along Macapagal Avenue). Please call 09209149568.

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reveal

review tv

top of the list

watches

A motor racing watch becomes a compass This sports watch stands out because of a completely new feature. For a long time the red Oris pointer displaying the date has been the key Oris innovation – now Oris presents a watch with a degree scale that therefore doubles as a compass. If the hour hand is aligned to the sun, south is halfway between that point and 12 o’clock. The other points of the compass are synchronized accordingly. A further development in the Oris WilliamsF1 line, the High-Mech watch, water-resistant to 50 m, is highly technological with its division for the pointer calendar on the dial and division for points of the compass on the bezel. The flexible lugs fit the wrist perfectly, as do the rubber strap featuring the vertical tyre tread of Formula One or the stainlesssteel bracelet with links. The mechanical movement is equipped with the red Oris rotor, clearly visible through the skeleton window in the back of the stainless-steel case. The new Oris Williams F1 Team Pointer Date – HighMech on the home straight.

review central

scent

Her exotic embrace Kate Moss has launched Velvet Hour, her second fragrance, under the tag line "Embrace the night". Velvet Hour was developed by perfumer Emilie Copperman, and features notes of blue pepper, freesia, cashmere incense, patchouli, nutmeg, sandalwood, amber, ebony and wood. Kate Moss Velvet Hour is available in 15, 30, 50 and 100 ml Eau de Toilette.

mobile

The ultimate gadget The Samsung i900 packs a lot of phone in a little bit of space. Constructed with a sturdy metallic body, the i900 pulls together all of the best features found with phones today into one simple to use package. At the same time, the unit is pretty thin and will definitely not weigh down the pocket. Fans of Windows Mobile 6.1 will be in heaven with this unit. The package is a full service one, which means you can move about the Internet with a great deal of ease. Despite the small size of the device, the display screen is still a respectable 3.2 inches, bigger than on a lot of phones. The color resolution is great as well. You don't

50 | CondoCentral

music

have to worry about images appearing washed out or discolored. This makes reading text or viewing online images a lot easier on the eyes. Speaking of images, the camera on the i900 is one of the best you will find. Equipped with a five megapixel capability, the camera also has a great auto focus feature along with easy operating from the keypad. You will have plenty of memory to store those images and videos. The i900 comes with options of 8 GB and 16 GB of onboard memory at your disposal. To round out the features, there is also Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and FM radio available. And while you are enjoying all the media options, you can still depend on being able to hear and be heard on your phone calls. The sound clarity is above standard and will amaze people who are used to the quality found with lesser phones.

FOR ANNOUNCEMENT PURPOSES ONLY

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review central

cars

Lean, mean, turbo-charged machine

The 2009 Mazdaspeed 3 is sorta like George Foreman, only there's no Mazdaspeed Lean Mean Grilling Machine and it doesn't hawk mufflers for Meineke. Other than that, totally analogous. Even though it is based on the aging 3, the 'Speed 3 keeps knocking out the competition, just like George. Like any good high-performance special edition, the Mazdaspeed 3 benefits from being based on an excellent car to begin with. Frequently hailed as the most enjoyable car in its class to drive, the regular Mazda

52 | CondoCentral

3 lends some very regal bloodlines. The 'Speed 3 takes those genes and adds a turbocharged engine that cranks output up to a sensational 263 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. But the transformation from civilized 3 to "MS3" doesn't stop with the powertrain. In addition to the usual litany of changes like a lowered ride height and firmer springs and dampers, Mazda added various braces to minimize flex during aggressive cornering. Eighteeninch wheels and performance tires are fitted to each corner for better

grip, while larger brakes produce stopping distances suitable for a high-end sports car. All these upgrades make the Mazdaspeed 3 the top dog in its segment. On a smooth road with sweeping turns, the 3 can keep pace with almost anything in this price range, including some rear-drive and all-wheel-drive cars. Meanwhile, the comfortable and well-equipped cabin and the utility provided by the four-door hatchback body style makes this small dynamo a great daily driver. The ability to provide knockout

acceleration, excellent handling manners and hatchback practicality at a very reasonable price has made the Mazdaspeed 3 a victor in every comparison test we've put it in. Rivals like the Honda Civic Si, Mini Cooper S, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, Subaru WRX and Volkswagen GTI have all fallen at its feet. While some may offer a little more of this or a tad more of that - particularly AWD and available automatic transmissions - the mighty 2009 Mazdaspeed 3 is still the best bet in its weight class.

Rise of the

54 | CondoCentral

I

nheriting property takes on a different meaning when it comes to this group of determined, young individuals. Sons and daughters of some of the country's more established homebuilders, they have chosen to follow in their parents' footsteps, to be bequeathed with all the privileges – and perplexities – of the endeavor so bravely undertaken by their enterprising elders. Condo Central brings together nine of these scions and listens to them as they candidly talk about the blessing and the burden of being next in line. CondoCentral | 55

THIS Ivy LeagueSumma Cum Laude, globetrotter, adventure sports buff and drummer knows how to live life to the fullest.

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RISE OF THE

SCIONS

A rocking balancing act

I

f he were to line up and apply for the job he currently holds, he most likely would send other candidates packing in a jiff. Maybe, too, he can even demand for a heftier compensation package. With a finance degree (summa cum laude) from Wharton, an MBA from the same illustrious institution, and a year’s experience as financial analyst in the New York-based The Blackstone Group’s real estate arm, Marco R. Antonio is undoubtedly every inch worthy of his post as managing director of the familyowned Century Properties, Inc. Like his three brothers—two of whom are Wharton-educated, and one a Stanford graduate—34-yearold Marco has decided to devote his talents and skills towards bolstering the family business. “Since I was a kid, I wanted to either be a real estate developer or a drummer in a rock band,” Marco points out. “Since my musical talents are quite limited, I decided real estate would be a better fit.” He works closely with his brothers and his father, the chairman of the company, to shape the direction of the firm as well as to implement their collective vision. Independently, though, Marco brings to the table an analytical mind, an exposure to global best practices, a love for sales and marketing, and experience on the whole development cycle. “Many theoretical approaches and strategic frameworks can be learned

Speaking of heights, Marco does not consider any of its numerous developments, nor having survived the debilitating 1997 Asian financial crisis that hit the region a decade ago, as Century Properties’ highest achievement. “Rather, it is continuously exceeding expectations of our clients and keeping our employees happy throughout our 25year history,” he says. Hard-nosed as he is at work, Marco balances off by engaging, with equal fervor, in recreational pursuits. Three to four times a week, he hits the gym. He has also dabbled in scuba diving, golf, mountain climbing and sky diving. But everything—as in everything —considered, Marco regards being married to his wife, Jackie, as his personal highest achievement. The laid-back moments they spend away from work give him the greatest delight. And for an avowed foodie and travel junkie, he now does not mind spending a good deal of

“I admire people who dream big, who have the courage to go against the norm, and throw themselves passionately towards achieving their goals.” from school, but there is no substitute for relevant experience.” he says. “To be prepared, one must have a genuine interest in the business, an innate love to work with people, an ability to nurture a healthy work environment, and a clear vision to take the company to greater heights.”

downtime at home. “My wife and I like to go through cookbooks and try new recipes for the week,” he says. “During weekends, we walk our dog, Chewy. We also enjoy catching up on the latest DVDs and TV shows.” Youthful, learned, driven, equipoised. And he says he isn’t a rock star.

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RISE OF THE

SCIONS

The successful, new age guy

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lfred Xerez-Burgos III is a sensitive, new age guy. He isn’t the cocky alpha male; he displays no need to dominate others. But this 37-year-old man, with a boyish charm and teenage looks, is the alpha male at Landco Pacific Corp, the maverick company that has successfully created its niche and established, in less than 20 years, a good brand in real estate.

Alby is Senior Vice-President for Sales and Marketing at Landco, which is a joint venture between the giant Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (the local unit of Hong Kong conglomerate First Pacific Co. Ltd) and the Xerez-Burgos family. Yet he is the total opposite of your typical top honcho—ambitious, competitive, often difficult to work with—the type that experts report represents three out of four senior executives in corporate America. Instead, Alby personifies the Steven Covey-type of principled leader. “I admire the people I work with,” he says when asked about the people who inspire him.

“I’ve done the rounds,and I’ve been through the ups and downs (of real estate). So when we conceptualize projects, I already see the pitfalls.” “We have an amazing team at Landco, where everyone is passionate about their work.” Alby, in fact, does not take credit for Landco’s success—even though this has been buttressed largely by the innovative Leisure Farms concept that was his brain child. The concept was his thesis, in fact, at the Asian Institute of Management, where he got his Masters in Management in 11 months. (He has an Industrial Engineering degree with minor in Chemical Engineering from De La Salle University). He also displays an utter lack of ego. His participative management style allows Landco to attract, retain and nurture the talent needed for it to prosper in a highly competitive industry. “I make sure that our people do all the

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thinking. I let them be as creative as they can be.” Consequently, “they own the project, and we get exceptional end results,” he says. “I also make sure that we work as a team. So if one has a good idea, we validate it, and support him or her all the way.” Behind his great management style is a genuinely warm persona. “I admire my wife,” says this executive, who is unashamed to admit that he juggles skeds to be an involved dad and husband, driving his kids to school everyday, cooking, and reserving Sundays to spend time with his in-laws. “I have a very stressful schedule

and my wife has to put up with me, day in and day out. She has to prepare food, take care of the kids, and attend events…you know there’s no dull moment with her!” Such consideration for women is not only commendable, but even courageous in this largely macho culture. And in Alby’s case, it is profitable: Landco’s high-end Ponderosa Leisure Farms—which turned out to be an enormous success—had capitalized on this. “We focused on the housewives,” he said. “Because they like gardening, we figured, why don’t we take this hobby to a new level? After all, the wife is the core of every family, so if you convince her, that’s it!” Thus, Alby and his team were able to create a successful, high-end Leisure community (prices reaching PhP5 million per lot) in the middle of a “no-man’s land” in Lemery, Batangas. And don’t be fooled by this man’s gentle manners. Alby is no softie. With over 15 years in real estate, he has done the rounds (shopping centers, market research, finance, corporate communications, marketing and sales)—and has emerged victorious from tough times: Landco’s first Leisure Farm in Tagaytay was a huge success, even if it was launched at the tail end of the Asian financial crisis, when industry sales “were declining at the rate of 60% per annum.” Landco’s developments uplift host communities, provide jobs, and develop barren, remote areas into thriving communities with paved roads, water systems, schools. Because Landco has always consciously targeted the countryside, where investments are sorely needed, its developments help spur national development. And just what does Alby get from all these feats? “The sheer fulfillment of creating something out of nothing, and seeing other people enjoy the lifestyle that I conceptualized. You see, it’s really more than the money.”

Alby breaks stereotypes; He is nurturing, loves to cook and drive the kids to school, but was also a member of the ROTC Model Platoon back in college, has a complete set of all Top Gear mags, and loves red wine and red meat as well.

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A labor of love

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nnabelle Lam loves Indonesian food, children, her family, the company and her employees, but not necessarily in that order. And in between her multiple roles as sister, daughter, and businesswoman, she is also the finance director of Finbar Realty and Development Corporation.

Graduating from Chiang Kai Shek College with a degree in Business Administration prepared her to manage the business, but her grooming started way before she was old enough to be an officer of the company. “Ever since we were kids we were already trained in the family business. Unlike our friends who would have their weekends free, we had to work on Saturdays,” says Annabelle. She is the fourth of five children, a long-time Tsinoy entrepreneur in the steel industry. But this on-the-job training, so to speak, paid off for the family and for

“That’s the value that I try to instill in the office: Love for the job and love for the company.” Annabelle when they started Finbar in December 2006. “In the latter part of 2006, short of fixing the air-con, I was all-around: all-around admin, I was doing purchasing, finance, payroll, even taking care of the bodega because we didn’t have that many people then.” Being the head of finance is not an easy job. But thanks to her previous experience in a travel agency and her

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obligatory stint in her family’s steel company, Annabelle has become a very capable—and well-loved—leader. A self-confessed disciplinarian, this 26-year-old is a stickler for rules, and for making sure they are being followed. And though it may seem as if she is all-business, Annabelle also knows how to be a good colleague. “At lunch, I talk to my employees. I joke with them and I eat with them,”

she adds. This is how she establishes and maintains a good relationship with everyone in her company. Being a good role model is also very important, she says. If the best employee works 10 hours a day, Annabelle is sure to work twice as hard—not to show up the employee, but because that’s how she’s programmed. “When they see my efforts, they appreciate it. Because it’s not just for me, it’s for the whole company,” she says. Right now the company is her life, but Annabelle also sees herself building other things years from now. Like her mother before her, Annabelle also hopes to pursue a life-long dream to teach, a career choice that she thinks is not that farfetched, given her current role in the company. Like a true teacher and conscientious boss, she makes it a point to educate her employees by explaining to them their tasks, thus making them feel that they are a part of the entire process. By giving them shared responsibility in the company’s development, they are not just employees but stakeholders in the whole enterprise. Annabelle believes that in real estate, an entrepreneur can only grow if he or she knows when to buy and where to start a development. But providing houses and residential units, she believes, is a guaranteed success. Having a roof over one’s head is an inalienable right, she notes. And for as long as there are families to provide for, then developers like Finbar Realty and Development Corporation will continue to build homes.

Sweet and freshfaced, Annabelle wears many hats, works long hours, plays the handy (wo)man, even as she crunches numbers, and holds the purse strings and keeps things working at Finbar Realty.

RISE OF THE

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Beau ideal

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ick up any lifestyle glossy and chances are, you’ll see her comely, well-chiseled face splashed across one of the society pages. In fact, it isn’t far-fetched to assume that 26-yearold Divine Lee is really a professional partygoer. The moment you find out, however, that this perky young lady is in charge not only of sales and marketing, but also of design and development for the numerous projects of Globe Asiatique Realty Holdings Corporation, skepticism melts into admiration. And when you discover further that she also runs her own clothing retail business, then on top of that still has the time and energy to dabble in advertising, admiration should morph into, well, utter awe perhaps? Indeed, the entrepreneurial

“Consider every person you talk to as a person you can learn from... make everyone around you better, and everyone around you will help you reach your dreams.” spirit was sparked off fairly early in Divine, who as a young girl would sell almost anything to her friends and classmates—from stickers, to ice candy and soft drinks, to drawings she’d sketched. In between raking

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in a small fortune from her micro ventures, she’d be busy fantasizing about being a doctor, an astronaut, and, maybe, albeit surreptitiously, being like her dad. “My dad always pushed me to do

whatever would make me happy, and to be the best in whatever field I entered,” says Divine. “He said he would be proud of me as long as I am happy and inspiring people in whatever profession I choose to be in.” The way Divine had always displayed unabashed esteem for her father, it seemed a forgone conclusion that she’d end up working for, or with, him, despite his “find your own place in the sun” intimation. The economics major is quick to remark, though, that the berth is not fortuitous by virtue of lineage. “Being the daughter of the owner actually adds more to the pressure—I don’t get, nor do I look for, special treatment,” says Divine. “I am a mere employee, and every task I take, I take with full responsibility. Failure can result in my dismissal. I have to continuously prove, not just to my father but more to my colleagues, my worth and why I am the best for the job.” Moreover, she does not let her position get in the way of the greater good. “My love for the company is to see it soar to great heights, and if this means having another person who can do the job better, then I will be more than happy to see him lead, and I will follow as needed,” she says. Well, status quo is good. Because if we are to go by GA’s record and repute, we see that this globetrotting, condo-dwelling, Hummerdriving, sinigang-devouring lady of inexhaustible pep is doing her job quite awfully well.

The face and figure of an angel masks a tough businesswoman, who doggedly pursues a multitude of projects.

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Taking the plunge

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s it nature or nurture that has made Katrina Lim a woman of both grace and steel? Looking at her, one becomes convinced, it is a bit of both. Katrina is the daughter of a FilipinoChinese steel magnate and head of Nobleland Ventures, Inc. and Linton Inc. That is where nature must have come in. But she also grew up in an oldfashioned household where the old-school rules still applied— and that is probably where nurture made its contribution. Says Katrina of her childhood: “Growing up I considered myself luckier than most. This was not because our family was well-off, but because my parents were ideal: my father worked, my mom kept the home—and cooked the most perfect of dishes, besides.” “I’d say the Lim family was such an ideal family. You’d think that my

“I always set higher goals and bigger tasks for myself each time a task has been completed. Being complacent with one’s success is a surefire way to fail in the end.” dad would be too busy and tired to do anything after work, but no. When he got home, he made sure that we were well. He took the time to talk to us. He made sure we ate properly, and he even stayed up with us when we were sick,”

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Katrina recalls fondly. Acquiring a Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Management has undoubtedly helped Katrina handle the responsibilities of being Nobleland’s Assistant to the President. But like many

successful Tsinoy families, the real training started even before they were old enough to work. “My parents inculcated in their children the necessary skills to take over their businesses, slowly and over the years. “I remember when I was a child my parents encouraged me to go into different activities so I that could gain a lot of different skills. This helped me become a person who could comfortably run our family businesses.” But Katrina is not entirely all about business. This young businesswoman also knows how to relax. While her weekends are busy, she still finds time to visit new restaurants with friends or do the tourist thing. Her favorite places are historic Vienna, and the bustling city of Hong Kong, the gourmand’s paradise. The secret is in finding balance. And what is her advice to young entrepreneurs who wish to succeed? Good old fashioned hard work, perseverance and maybe, just a little bit of luck. Most of all, be fearless and take the plunge. “Just do it,” she exhorts. “Of course do your research, then just dive in! You can only plan and prepare for a business to a certain extent. You just have to take the plunge and learn from the mistakes that you will ultimately make.” And judging by the huge success of their family enterprises, it seems that Katrina may just be right about that.

Make Up: Meggy Cuisia • Clothes By: Sloane by Katrina Chua • Styling by: Lyshiel Valencia

Strict and early business training from her traditional Tsinoy father, coupled with the warmth of growing up in a loving family, has turned Katrina into the steely woman who is unafraid to take bold risks.

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Together we stand

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esar and Francis Wee, senior executives of up-and­ coming property developer W Landholdings, Inc. are young, smart—and well on their way to establishing their family as one that may soon run Asia. Driven, disciplined and mature beyond their years (Cesar the taller one is at 32, six years older than Francis), the two brothers have taken charge of their family’s expansion into real estate from the export of the seaweed, carrageenan, its core business of 40 years. From a sporadic developer in the 1980s and 1990s, the two brothers have brought their family’s property venture into what it is today: the successful developer of W Tower at the Bonifacio Global City, the First Baron Residences in San Juan, a 200-hectare middle-income township development in Carmona, Cavite, and of other residential projects.

On the plus side of today’s property sector, the brothers note: there’s more money coming in now, than 10 years ago. Such sharp focus on the goal, the tasks at hand, and the end results, allow the two brothers to overcome their vast differences. “Francis and I, we’re really opposites. He’s more of the corporate person; I’m more of the informal one. I wear shorts. I don’t go to the office. I work at night. But I do the marketing and conceptual work,” says Cesar, the chirpier brother who is quicker to warm to guests. Cesar has a marketing degree from the Ateneo de Manila University, while Francis carries a business degree from the rival De La Salle University. “In fact, our dad was the one who really wanted us together, as a form of check-and-balance, a way of turning our differences into an advantage,” says the more cautious and formal Francis. The brothers say their differences cause them to argue a lot, but they work

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around this by agreeing on a project concept, then going on to handle different parts of the business: Cesar takes charge of marketing and Francis looks after construction and operations. “So we do work as a team,” says Francis. “—but not together,” Cesar says, and they both laugh. In fact, while they say that they are opposites, they really seem more like two sides of a coin. They tend to finish each others’ sentences, banter, and show consideration for each other. There is hardly a trace of sibling rivalry. “It would really be unfair to Cesar if I was the only one featured,” Francis explains why he insisted on including his brother in this piece. This deep and genuine brotherly love, in fact, may be the secret strength of the Wees—and may be the very factor that will help them found their family’s

business empire. As a Chinese proverb warns, wealth does not pass beyond three generations. Sons and grandsons, the thinking goes, inevitably dissipate the ancestral fortune. But taking off from the way the two brothers strive to overcome differences, the next generation of Wees are working as a team. “We work as a family; we did not want to put all eggs in one basket, which is why we have diversified away from carrageenan, into real estate and financials,” Cesar explains. “In fact, we have a family constitution, a binding understanding that will hopefully help us avoid the infighting that is a common pitfall of many business families,” says Francis. “We got facilitators from the Ateneo Family Business Center, but we were the ones who wrote down the rules. The entire family drafted it,” says Cesar. “We wanted to give you a copy … but it’s confidential,” Francis quips, and the two laugh again. The Wee brothers are not only determined to work as a family, but are also resolved not to make the business mistakes their parents and friends made. “Like micromanaging the business and not taking the long view,” Francis notes. The older generation of entrepreneurs simply relied on their business instinct. But with technology, globalization and competition, today’ s entrepreneurs have to be prepared, the Wees say. And they are: they have a 20- to 30-year plan to stay in real estate that forecasts when the market will go down, and takes a conservative approach more appropriate for the ‘financially­-driven’ business where cash flow is crucial, the two explain. “I think with real estate, it’s too competitive that you have to always have new ideas, and adapt to a new environment quickly to be able to capture new markets,” Francis ends. Indeed, the two Wees have snuffed out their adversarial impulses, and have done their homework. No other set of brothers could be more prepared to build a name in real estate—and take the future.

Opposite in many ways, the Wee brothers complement each other and together make up a formidable, determined, creative team—and definitely one to look out for in the future.

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Zooming to the top “I want to revolutionize the industry!” Gibson Austin Yu boldly and proudly answers when asked what his goal is for his career in real estate. “Having the privilege of studying and working abroad, I have seen that there are a lot of improvements we can institute that will benefit the people of the Philippines.”

Such passion and sense of purpose were cultivated very early on. “When I was younger, summers were spent mostly in my father’s office,” says the 29-year old marketing and business development head for G&W Architects. “I wasn’t really tasked to do a specific work, I would just hang out there, bugging people and satisfying my curiosity on how things were done because I knew back then

“Making money has never been our primary driving force… the satisfaction lies in introducing something that will affect people in a good way.” that this is what I wanted to do when I grew up.” A business degree from Boston University and a wealth of real-world experience later, Gibson now has very real tasks to tackle, although the bugging and the satisfying the curiosity bit persists. “I call my management style management by walking around,” Gibson laughs. “My office is an open work station where other employees can see me and vice versa. That makes it easier for me

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to go around and confer with them. My staff are directly in touch with our clients, and they are in a better position to tell me what else we can improve on.” Certainly, professionalism and transparency are virtues deeply ingrained, not just in G&W’s internal corporate culture, but likewise in the way they deal with clients and business associates. The company has been advocating consumer protection through professionalism

in the brokerage industry, as well as full disclosure of pertinent facts and figures to clients. “Sadly, there are a lot of illegal and non-ethical practices in the industry that are tolerated,” says Gibson. “We don’t want any part of that. I come from a family of professionals, where the main objective is the benefit of our clients, and not big profit. That is why we created the Build-to-Own system instead of becoming a developer ourselves.” The Build-To-Own system is popularly known as the system that allows architects to directly serve the homeowners’ needs. This direct relationship ensures that G&W Architects can service clients efficiently, yielding better quality homes at lower costs. “The real highlight of the B-T-O system is the protection and peace of mind that our clients get through the benefit of having a trustee bank secure their hard earned savings.” While his father is still very much involved in setting the general direction of the company and maintaining the values learned from years of experience, the day-to-day operations are now handled by Gibson and his architect-brother, Terence. Together, they bring youth, energy, exuberance and a diverse set expertise to the firm established by their father and uncle 37 years ago. “Being a business architect is an aptitude the family and the company is known for,” Gibson points out. “The real estate industry touches on the life of everybody in the Philippines, and I believe we are in a position to affect the people in a good way!”

IN A HURRY. A motorsports enthusiast, Gibson is fullspeed ahead in the industry he was destined to serve.

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Silent waters run deep

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USINESS is no place for the meek or the faint of heart. And while he may look quite harmless and even shy, Harvard Yu, the 34-year-old President of Golden Forum Land, Inc., is not a man who is faint of heart. Certainly, he is no slacker among his colleagues in the business world.

In fact, if his determination, proven business acumen, his sensibilities and intellect are any measure, Harvard may be a giant among his peers. Surprisingly reticent for a young man of his position, Harvard’s introspection helps him navigate the crests and troughs of the real estate industry.

“Don’t be afraid to take chances. Strive to achieve, but stay humble. Sometimes the road less taken is really the correct road. Work hard, because nothing comes easy. Pray for God’s guidance.” Graduating from De La Salle University with a degree in Electronics Communications Engineering, it is this ease with analysis that sets him apart from other real estate entrepreneurs. That, and having a longer experience in successful business management, mostly in setting-up and operating Japanese restaurants: the Isshin Japanese Restaurant in Makati, Zaifu at the Power Plant, Asian Bites in Robinsons Galleria and Robinsons Place Ermita, and Enraku Japanese Kitchen at the GT Tower Food and Art Galerie. Food, in fact, is one of this quiet man’s passions—apart from his family, and driving. So much so that he plans to expand in that area, even as he decidedly pursues his plans in real estate which are: “to put up three

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successful projects in the next five years” because “our company would prefer quality over quantity of projects.” And driving is the other passion that probably keeps this very serious young man from going on, well, overdrive: “I love to drive, I love driving to places, I love being the designated driver and I love to drive in the rain. Don’t ask me why, I just do.” Such heightened sensibilities are more comfortably worn by a poet. But they may just as well be useful to a man who is involved in creating products that are really closest to consumer’s hearts: food and homes. The other passion is basketball. And it is from this sport—which

he used to play like a pro in high school—that he has culled many of his life’s lessons: “Michael Jordan was my role model as a teenager. When I was in high school, basketball was my life, and I admired how Jordan always wanted to lead his team or take the last basket. “His sheer determination got him where he wanted to go—and made him the best. He fought through adversity and his leadership showed on the court. Off the court, his work ethics got him to the next level. “These—teamwork, discipline and work ethics that I learned from playing basketball—are things I carry on with me as I lead my GFLI team. “Everyday at work, we face different challenges. I try to overcome these same challenges by keeping on, moving forward, finding the right solutions, and not letting anything hold me back. In the end, we always finish on top, just as Jordan almost always did.” Silence and an introspective nature make him a sensitive leader—and this may be the reason for his success so far. “I try to lead by example. I would like to believe I am very patient and very detailed. “On the other hand, I am very approachable and have an open door policy with my team. While I am a bit of a control freak that I need to oversee what almost everyone is doing, I induce a very relaxed atmosphere at the office which is conducive to good work.” While he has achieved much for a young man, Harvard says that there is so much more yet to come. “My highest achievement? None yet, I’d say I have still a long way to go--” Like silent water indeed, Harvard is etching deep canyons in real estate and the business world.

This shy, reflective entrepreneur predicted the financial meltdown brought by the US subprime mortgage crisis, weeks before it actually unfolded.

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Alarm and scandal issues in condos

Nine habits of highly successful real estate entrepreneurs

The Condo Café

Renne Isidro

In times of a real estate boom, going into real estate may seem like the most lucrative of careers, but is it for everyone? Mentors in the industry have this to say: For sure, anyone can enter the business. But for you to succeed, you must not only have an entrepreneurial bent, but also a strong liking for the unique elements of this business—land and everything that has to do with the building of structures. More importantly, aspiring real estate entrepreneurs have to have these nine traits. Here are nine habits of the world’s most successful real estate entrepreneurs: 1. Enjoy people. Savor each encounter and keep open communication lines with your clients. 2. Be always enthusiastic. Show it in the way you tell a prospect about the property you are selling, and in the way

Legal Options

Atty. Edwin Calica Cacayorin, Jr.

Bounce Juan dela Cruz is living it hard. To make ends meet he borrowed money from a loan shark at a ridiculous rate of eight percent (8%) a month. He failed to pay. Principal plus interest, his debt grew. Verbal threats and harassment began. Stressed out, Juan was forced

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that you make sure that it meets your clients’ needs. 3. Be imaginative. Picture what your client wants, and try to see vividly how a property can be adopted to your clients’ needs. 4. Be energetic. Work hard and keep yourself busy. 5. Pay attention to details. Note full details of all projects. 6. Be public-spirited. Know, and serve, the public you sell to. Join organizations, civic groups and participate in worthwhile community affairs. 7. Educate yourself. Know that there is always something new to learn. Stay alert about industry trends, real estate and other laws that affect the industry. Attend seminars, conventions and other events. Subscribe to various real estate magazines. (Subscribe to Condo Central and Real Estate World). 8. Be proud of your trade associations. All real estate associations serve the

to borrow money a second time from another loan shark to pay off his first loan. The terms of his second loan were more outrageous: interest rate is at ten percent (10%) a month— compounded! — and he had to issue ten (10) post-dated checks. (As expected) Juan failed to make good the checks he issued to the loan shark. Again, the verbal tirades of threats and harassment from strangers calling at wee hours became an everyday occurrence. Thereafter, the loan shark sued him criminally for estafa for issuing worthless checks, punishable under Article 315 [2][d] of the Revised Penal Code and (b) violation of the anti-bouncing check law or BP 22. What are Juan dela Cruz’ options? The Charge of Estafa: In the cases of People vs. Sabio (G.R. No. L-45490); Tan Tao Liap vs. Court of Appeals (G.R. No. L-45711); and Lagua vs. Cusi (G.R. L-42971) the Supreme Court ruled: “It is clear that under the law, the false pretense or fraudulent act must be executed prior to or simultaneously with the commission of the fraud. To defraud is to deprive some right, interest, or property by deceitful device. In the issuance of a check as

interest of real estate practitioners. Their purpose is to establish and maintain ethical practices, disseminate information and foster cooperation. Join CREBA, REBAP, PAREB and NRIA. 9. Work hard. Work long hours. There is no standard or set number of hours for brokers. Many deals are closed after 5p.m., and successful brokers make more appointments after 6p.m. Resort brokers work during weekends and holidays. The famous greeting in the real estate profession is “good morning”—at any time of the day. If you think you have these traits—or begin to build these habits—the real estate career is for you. Remember, if you become successful in real estate, you can become a tycoon. If you want to know how to become a real estate tycoon, get a copy of the August issue of Condo Central and read my column, The Condo Café.

payment for a pre-existing debt, the drawer derives no material benefit in return as its consideration had long been delivered to him before the check was issued. In short, the issuance of the check was not a means to obtain a valuable consideration from the payee. Deceit, to constitute estafa should be the efficient cause of the defraudation. Since an obligation has already been contracted, it cannot be said that the payee parted with his property or that the drawer has obtained something of value as a result of the postdating or issuance of the bad check in payment of a pre-existing obligation.” The Charge of Violation of BP 22: If Juan issued the checks knowing he did not have sufficient funds to cover the value of the check, he might probably get convicted. The anti-bouncing check law punishes “Any person who draws and issues any check for value knowing at the time of issue that he does not have sufficient funds in or credit with his bank for the payment of such check in full upon its presentment.” Note however the pronouncement of the Supreme Court in the case of Betty King v. People of the Philippines (G.R. No. 131540 December 2, 1999). It declared that “in order to create the

prima facie presumption that the issuer knew of the insufficiency of funds, it must be shown that he or she received a notice of dishonor and, proof of said notice must likewise be established beyond reasonable doubt.” In other words, the demand letters or notices of dishonor sent by the loan shark to Juan dela Cruz must be proven beyond reasonable doubt to have been actually received by Juan; otherwise the whole case against him must fail. How much can the loan shark recover? As to the principal amount, Juan must return it in full. As to the amount of interest, the Supreme Court had this to say… in the case of Medel v. Court of Appeals (299 SCRA 481 [1998]) it ruled that though the stipulated rate of interest at 5.5% per month on a loan amounting to PhP500,000.00 is not usurious it must be equitably reduced for being iniquitous, unconscionable and exorbitant to twelve percent (12%) per annum. Again, in the case of the Spouses Solangon v. Jose Salazar (GR. No. 125944, June 29, 2001) it modified the stipulated interest rate of six percent (6%) per month to twelve percent (12%) per annum.

Sky high Multiple Meaning

Ariel N. Valerio

Looking into the future need not look futuristic with glass shards, metal scraps, iron slabs, tin foils, asymmetrical shapes, drab colors, or what much of Hollywood films project. Tomorrow is not Armageddon. Should dingy images of a nuclear holocaust aftermath preoccupy us instead of dainty realities that bloom, grow, and prosper with our nurturing hands? Why instill desperation instead of hope, fear instead of courage, desolation instead of happiness? I seem to share these thoughts with designers of high-rise buildings who employ the elements of nature as testimony of man's desire to pursue a vibrant lifestyle. Observe how condominiums have evolved from mere edifices looming gloomily in the skyline to exquisite artistic renditions of human abode. Computers are here to stay and robots will continue to evolve but all these are meant for man's employ, not for

humanity's enslavement. MacLuhan formulated the concept of a global community (structured and planned), not a global tribe (unstructured and unplanned). Toffler's plastic economy seeks to restore man's control of himself and his environment, not to diminish it. Isaac Asimov's 500 books and 9,000 letters on science fiction and popular science do not espouse a negation of humaneness. The renewed tendency among urban planners and real estate developers to integrate architectural designs into culturebound lifestyles drives home the point. Zen gardens, sky gardens, green walls are not new indeed, tracing their origin to the majestic Hanging Gardens of Babylon, but their reintegration into our postcolonial life definitely spells the difference. If this persists, the myth that property developers are anathema to the environment might soon dissipate.

Nothing to fear The Global Pinoy

Daniel R. dela Cruz

76 | CondoCentral

Economic shocks still radiating from the subprime mortgage fiasco threaten to drop the US economy into a deep recession. Crashing housing prices, growing joblessness, and the belt-tightening of debt-saturated American consumers may plunge the world’s most powerful nation into distress for years. Scarier than the bad mortgages are unregulated credit default, $45 trillion of those arcane instruments left afloat in the global financial system. Invented first to hedge against debt defaults, today even financial experts don't fully understand how these are going to impact the global economy. Scarier, too, is the fact that global markets and sectors are closely interconnected. As we go to press, the financial turmoil is still unfolding, and its exact extent has yet to been determined. Since we are closely integrated into this global economy, for sure, our country won’t be spared by these shocks. But Philippine realtors have no cause

for panic, as we have strong chances are of surviving this shake out. Fiscal reforms, a strong tax system, and government safety net programs aimed to help the poor are helping them cope with high oil prices, a record inflation, and this most recent crisis. Such programs include a removal of tariffs on petroleum products, foodin-school programs, a power subsidy, microfinance, scholarships and college loans, fuel discounts, income tax exemption, and supplemental calamity budget. Small things, but they allow the poor—who make up almost half of our population—to continue to spend. And spending—growth in personal consumption expenditure—will be the country's main economic engine, as it has been for many years now, sustained by rising foreign worker remittances. Thankfully, despite dire straits over the past years, such OFW remittances have continued to grow. More, despite tough times, there is a

strong and real underlying local demand for real estate. Even Credit Suisse Group has noted this. In the mid-range market, demand is spurred by strong remittances from Filipino professionals abroad. Yet even the luxury market continues to grow. CB Richard Ellis has recently declared the county a popular Southeast Asian real estate hub—buttressed by increasing tourist arrivals, a thriving offshoring and outsourcing industry (which will be hit by the current turmoil, though), and the continued influx of dollar remittances. And with property prices in Singapore for instance, being three to four times more expensive than those in Manila, inexpensive property prices will also drive real estate growth. The growth in turn attracts unprecedented levels of investments—in the hospitality and tourism—and this is spurring a virtuous circle. Capital investment in new infrastructure and tourist-related facilities enhances the country’s offering to new markets, and generates increased visitor spending. So yes, these are certainly troubled times. But as it is said, crisis holds both danger and opportunity. Let’s focus on the opportunities. After all, there is nothing to fear really, except fear itself.

CondoCentral | 77

central market Prime Locations FOR RENT Asian Tower/ Legaspi Village Studio, 48 sq.m., fully furnished, P22,000 Prince Plaza 1/ Legaspi Village Studio, 40 sq.m., fully furnished, P18,000 Perla Mansion/ Legaspi Village Studio, 34 sq.m., fully furnished, P20,000

One Legaspi Park / Legaspi Village 2BR, 98 sq.m., unfurnished, 1 parking slot, maid's room, 3 T&Bs, P13M One Lafayette Square / Salcedo Village 1BR, 60 sq.m., unfurnished, 1 parking slot, P4.8M One Lafayette Square / Salcedo Village 2BR, 116 sq.m., unfurnished, 1 parking slot, P8.5M Forbeswood Heights / The Fort 1BR with balcony, 58 sq.m., unfurnished, P4.5M

BSA Tower/ Legaspi Village Studio with balcony, 36 sq.m., fully furnished, P20,000

One Mckinley Place / The Fort 1BR with balcony, 76 sq.m., unfurnished, 1 parking slot, P7.5M

BSA Tower / Legaspi Village 1BR with balcony, 48 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, P25,000

Greenbelt Radissons / Legaspi Village 2BR with balcony, 101 sq.m., semifurnished, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, 1 parking slot, P9.9M

Rada Regency / Legaspi Village 1BR with balcony, 32 sq.m., unfurnished, P15,000 One Legaspi Park / Legaspi Village 1BR, 60 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, P70,000 Tropical Palm / Legaspi Village 1BR with balcony, 60 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, P30,000 Tropical Palm / Legaspi Village 2BR with balcony, 146 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, P55,000 Collonade / Legaspi Village 2BR with balcony, 146 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, P65,000 One Legaspi Park / Legaspi Village 2BR, 98 sq.m.,fully furnished,1 parking slot, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, P110,000 Frabella / Legaspi Village 2BR with balcony, 165 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 3 T&B, maid's room, P85,000 Sunrise / Legaspi Village 2BR with balcony, 148 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, P55,000 Grand Tower / Salcedo Village 2BR with balcony, 155 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, P75,000 One Mckinley Place / The Fort 2BR, 115 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, P110,000 Penhurst / The Fort 2BR, 98 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, P60,000 Kensington / The Fort 2BR, 97 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, P65,000 Fairways Tower / The Fort 2BR, 80 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 2 T&Bs, P85,000 One Mckinley Place / The Fort 1BR with balcony, 76 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, P50,000 Nobel Plaza / Salcedo Village 1BR, 60 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, P25,000

FOR SALE Greenbelt Radissons / Legaspi Village Studio with balcony, 34 sq.m., unfurnished, P3.5M Greenbelt Parkplace / Legaspi Village Studio, 44 sq.m., fully furnished, P4.5M One Legaspi Park / Legaspi Village 1BR, 60 sq.m., unfurnished, 1 parking slot, P7.3M One Legaspi Park / Legaspi Village 1BR, 70 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, 2 T&Bs, P8.5M The Shang Grand Tower / Legaspi Village 1BR, 80 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, P8.5M Rada Regency / Legaspi Village 1BR with balcony, 35 sq.m., unfurnished, P2.8M

Asian Tower / Legaspi Village 2BR, 75 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot, P8.5M The Shang Grand Tower / Legaspi Village 2BR, 132 sq.m., unfurnished, 1 parking slot, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, P15.5M Forbeswood Heights / The Fort 2BR, 84 sq.m., unfurnished, 1 parking slot, P9M One Mckinley Place / Fort Global 2BR, 110 sq.m., fully furnished, 3 T&Bs, maid's room, 1 parking slot, P15.5M Penhurst / Fort Global 2BR, 98 sq.m., fully furnished, 1 parking slot,3 T&Bs, maid's room, P8.5M

LEISURE PROPERTIES Marketing | Project Selling | Joint Venture Negotiator | Multimedia Promotion & Advertisement NATIONWIDE PROPERTIES FOR SALE OR JOINT VENTURE

2,000 square meters commercial lot, Buendia Ave., Makati City -17 hectares, retirement farm, Samal Island, Davao -2 hectares, resort subdivision, Matabungkay, Batangas -20,000 square meters, commercial lot, Valenzuela City Land owners and property developers can call +63 927 470 29 64 or e-mail [email protected] for a business meeting

LEISURE PROPERTIES BUY-SELL-RENT-LEASE

Lifestyle Condominiums and Resorts

One Pacific Place, Salcedo Village The Icon Plaza, Fort Bonifacio The Fairways Towers, Fort Bonifacio Uptown 21, Quezon City Canyon Woods, Tagaytay Eurovek Towers, Mactan Island Camp John Hay, Baguio

Soma / The Fort 2BR with balcony, 76 sq.m., fully furnished, P7M

More than 200+ condominium listings and 100 resort listings

For viewing requests, please call Mr. Constantino at (632) 812-3333 or +639217699685

For viewing requests, call Renne Isidro at +63927 470 2964 or (632) 812 3333

Structural icons that greet the sky THE FAIRWAYS TOWERS 3BR (penthouse) units UNIT B, 147 sq.m., P20.286M UNIT C, 144 sq.m., P19.872M UNIT D, 135 sq.m., P18.630M UNIT E, 122 sq.m., P15.860M UNIT F, 161 sq.m., P20.930M EASTON PLACE Salcedo Village, Makati City 3BR, 189 sq.m., P12,5M GRAND HAMPTONS Bonifacio Global City 3BR, 119 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P11.5M GRAND HAMPTONS Bonifacio Global City 3BR (penthouse) + maid's room, 3 T&Bs, 120 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P13.8M PARC REGENT Salcedo Village, Makati City 3BR + maid's room, 165 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P9M REGENCY AT SALCEDO Salcedo Village, Makati City 3BR, 254 sq.m., 2 parking slots, P17M SALCEDO PARK Salcedo Village, Makati City 3BR, 179 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P13M Please call Dexter at +639214643185

Rockwell Condos For Rent Please call +639175008251

Rizal Tower, 3BR, SMF, 283 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P180,000 Rizal Tower, 3BR, SMF, 286 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P190,000 Rizal Tower, 3BR, SMF, 286 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P180,000 Hidalgo Place, 3BR, FF, 198 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P160,000 Luna Gardens, 3BR, FF, 247 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P170,000 Amorsolo East, 3BR, FF, 184 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P160,000 Rizal Tower, 3BR, FF, 286 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P200,000 Amorsolo East, 3BR, SMF, 180 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P150,000 Rizal Tower, Penthouse, FF, 336 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P240,000 Rizal Tower, Penthouse, FF, 336 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P220,000 Amorsolo East, 2BR, FF, 157 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P125,000 Amorsolo East, 2BR, FF, 121 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P115,000 Amorsolo West, 2BR, SMF, 125 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P110,000 Hidalgo Place, 2BR, SMF, 132 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P105,000 Amorsolo West, 2BR, FF, 123 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P120,000 Amorsolo East, 2BR, FF, 150 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P130,000 Joya at Rockwell, 2BR, FF, 100 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P120,000 Amorsolo Square, 2BR, FF, 154 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P130,000 Hidalgo Place, Studio, FF, 59, 1 parking slot, P55,000 Hidalgo Place, Studio, FF, 53 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P50,000

Ayala Condo Units For Rent Please call +639175008251 The Columns at Ayala, Studio, 30 sq.m., SMF, P30,000 The Columns at Ayala, Studio, 30 sq.m., FF, P25,000 The Columns at Ayala, Studio, 30 sq.m., FF, P25,0000 The Columns at Ayala, Studio, 32 sq.m., FF, P25,000 The Columns at Ayala, 1BR, 48 sq.m., UNF, P26,000 The Columns at Ayala, 1BR, 48 sq.m., FF, 1 parking slot, P40,000 The Columns at Ayala, 1BR, 49 sq.m., SMF, 1 parking slot, P40,000 The Columns at Ayala, 1BR, 49 sq.m., SMF, P45,000 The Columns at Ayala, 1 BR, 48 sq.m., FF, 1 parking slot, P50,000

quezon city townhouse

cathedral heights townhomes unit type 2-bedroom 3-bedroom

size price range 144.80 sq.m. Php8.75M 200.00 sq.m. Php12.15M Bank financing available



quezon city condo the steps @ 8 sto. domingo

unit type Studio 1-bedroom 2 bedroom

size price range 9.28 - 28.74 sq.m. Php 1.3M - Php 1.9M 30.14 - 48.32 sq.m. Php 1.96M - Php 3.19M 53.91 - 74.85 sq.m. Php 3.7M - Php 5.14M

Ready for turnover on December 2008 Pag-IBIG and bank financing available



INDUSTRIAL LOTS Cainta 13,174 sq.m., P65M Malabon, 857 sq.m., P10M Meycauayan, 3,873 sq.m, P18M Valenzuela, 2,718 sq.m., P22M

RESIDENTIAL LOTS

manila condo el pueblo manila sta.mesa

unit type size price range Studio 8.5 - 16.5 sq.m. Php 552,000 - Php1.2M 1-bedroom 20 - 27 sq.m. Php 1.3M - Php 1.7M 2-bedroom 24.5 sq.m. Php 1.6M 3-bedroom 27 sq.m. Php 1.75 - 1.81M



All units fully furnished Phase 1 ready for turnover on December 2008 Pag-IBIG financing available



For presentation and viewing, please call or text: Patrick R. Blanco cell phone # 09179809477

FOR RENT House and Lot

Acropolis Libis / Quezon City 2-storey, 3BR, 3 T&Bs, 2 car garages, unfurnished, FA: 500 sq.m, LA: 215 sq.m., P30,000/mo. Ayala Alabang / Muntinlupa 2-storey, 4BR, 4 T&Bs, 4 car garages, fully-furnished, FA: 500 sq.m., LA: 300, P120,000/mo. Ayala Alabang / Muntinlupa 3BR, 2 T&Bs, 2 car garages, unfurnished, FA: 500 sq.m., LA: 250 sq.m., P85,000/mo.

The Columns at Ayala, 1BR, 49 sq.m., FF, 1 parking slot, P50,000

Cubao, 4,804 sq.m., P96M Las Piñas, 6,463 sq.m., P93M San Rafael, 5,726 sq.m., P15M

The Columns at Ayala, 1BR, 49 sq.m., FF, 1 parking slot, P60,000

PRIME LOT

Ayala Alabang / Muntinlupa 4BR, 3 T&Bs, 4 car garages, fully-furnished, swimming pool, FA: 575 sq.m., LA: 784 sq.m., P225,000/mo., P24M

PRIME INVESTMENT SITES

Bel-Air 1 Village / Makati City 2-storey, 3BR with den, 3 T&Bs, 2 car garages, unfurnished, FA: 350 sq.m., LA: 350 sq.m., P120, 000/mo.

The Columns at Ayala, 2BR, 67 sq.m., 1 parking slot, P62,000 The Columns at Ayala, 2BR, 67 sq.m., FF, 1 parking slot, P67,000 The Columns at Ayala, 2BR, 67 sq.m., FF, 1 parking slot, P70,000 The Columns at Ayala, 2BR, 63 sq.m., FF, 1 parking slot, P75,000

Affordable Condos Grand Hamptons Tower II Bonifacio Global City One-bedroom with balcony 46 sq.m. P3.3M Vito Cruz Tower Near DLSU-Taft 24 sq.m. P1.2M The Columns Ayala 30 sq.m. P3.3M Call or text Bing Lau at +639209027280

Ayala Avenue, 2,400 sq.m., P1.3B

EDSA, Mandaluyong, 8,175.5 sq.m., P320M Makati CBD, 3,695 sq.m., P745M Mandaluyong, 4,103 sq.m., P150M Ortigas CBD, 2,500 sq.m., P250M Salcedo Village, 82 offices, 401 parking spaces, P1.6B Salcedo Village, 982 sq.m., P240M

BEACH/ RESORT PROPERTIES Mindoro, 4,500 sq.m., P82M Mindoro, 15,500 sq.m., P45M

WAREHOUSE

Parañaque, 700 sq.m., P20M

LEISURE FARMS Davao City, 50,000 sq.m., P12M Davao City, 370,000 sq.m., P185M

HOUSE & LOT

Ayala, Alabang, LA: 1,000 sq.m., FA: 1,083 sq.m., 2 storey, 3BR, den, pool, garden, Lanai,2 cg, semifurnished, P48M Ayala, Alabang, LA: 1,300, FA: 585 sq.m., split level, 5BR, den, pool, garden, 2 CG, semifurnished, P45M Ayala Southvale Sonera, LA: 525 sq.m., FA: 340 sq.m., 2 storey, 3BR, den, garden, 2cg, P35M San Lorenzo, LA: 560 sq.m., FA: 285 sq.m., 2 storey, 3BR, 3 T&Bs, den, 2cg, P40M White Plains, Quezon City, LA: 325 sq.m., FA: 400 sq.m., 4BR, attic, shower, tub and granite countertop, 4 T&Bs, 4 CG, P26M Please call John Paul Castro at +639296019466

Dasmariñas Village / Makati City 3BR, 2 T&Bs, 2 car garages, unfurnished, FA: 600 sq.m., LA: 300 sq.m., swimming pool, P150,000/month Dasmariñas Village / Makati City 3BR, 3 T&Bs, 4 car garages, semi-furnished, FA: 545.4 sq.m., LA: 1,089 sq.m., swimming pool, P200,000/mo. South Forbes Park / Makati City 4BR, 4 T&Bs, 4 car garages, unfurnished, swimming pool, FA: 350 sq.m., LA: 700 sqm, P220, 000/mo. Sta. Mesa Heights / Quezon City 2BR, 2 T&Bs, 2 car garages, unfurnished, FA: 150 sq.m., LA: 250 sq.m., P20,000/mo.

FOR SALE

Filinvest 2 / Quezon City 2-storey, 5BR, 4 T&Bs, 2 car garages, FA:225 sq.m., LA: 216 sq.m., P6.5M North View 2, Filinvest 2 / Quezon City 2-storey, 5BR, 4 T&Bs, 2 car garages, FA: 210 sq.m., LA: 180 sq.m., P5.8M North View 2, Filinvest 2 / Quezon City 2-storey, 5BR, 4 T&Bs, 2 car garages, FA:235 sq.m., LA: 240 sq.m., P7M North View 2, Filinvest 2 / Quezon City 2-storey, 5BR, 4 T&Bs, 2 car garages, FA: 210 sq.m., LA: 180 sq.m., P5.8M Please call Aaron dela Cruz at (632) 840-1332 or +639282853144

condo

DISCLAIMER: All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prospective purchasers and renters should verify the information to their satisfaction.

www.condo.com.ph

For inquiries and viewing requests:

CALL NOW (632) 812-3333

FOR RENT

BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Amber Place

Studio

Unfurnished

28

0

11,000

Amber Place

2

Unfurnished

90

0

24,200

Bonifacio Heights

3

Unfurnished

57

1

25,000

Bonifacio Ridge

2

Fully furnished

133

1

100,000

Bonifacio Ridge

1

Fully furnished

118

2

110,000

Essensa Towers

3

Semi-furnished

290

0

170,000

Fairways Tower

Studio

Fully furnished

41

1

41,000

Fairways Tower

2

Fully furnished

82

1

82,000

Fairways Tower

1

Fully furnished

52

1

52,000

Fairways Tower

2

Fully furnished

93

0

100,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Fully furnished

36.5

0

32,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Fully furnished

36.5

1

35,000

Forbeswood Heights

3

Semi-furnished

107

1

90,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

48

1

38,000

Forbeswood Heights

3

Semi-furnished

107

1

75,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Semi-furnished

59

1

35,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

48

1

35,000

Forbeswood Heights

3

Fully furnished

155

1

130,000

Forbeswood Heights

Studio

Fully furnished

36.5

1

30,000

Forbeswood Heights

Studio

Fully furnished

40

0

30,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Fully furnished

36.5

0

25,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Fully furnished

59

1

40,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Fully furnished

36.5

1

40,000

Forbeswood Heights

Studio

Fully furnished

36.5

0

30,000

Forbeswood Heights

Studio

Unfurnished

36.5

0

25,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Fully furnished

36.5

0

40,000

Grand Hamptons Place

3

Unfurnished

119

1

90,000

Grand Hamptons Place

3

Unfurnished

119

1

90,000

Kensington

Studio

Fully furnished

35

0

25,000

Kensington

Studio

Fully furnished

36

0

30,000

Kensington

Studio

Fully furnished

34

0

30,000

Kensington

Studio

Fully furnished

34

0

27,000

Kensington

2

Fully furnished

67.88

1

70,000 120,000

Kensington

3

Fully furnished

113.11

1

Kensington

1

Fully furnished

49.56

1

40,000

Kensington

2

Fully furnished

67.88

1

70,000

Kensington

2

Fully furnished

65.79

1

70,000

Kensington

2

Fully furnished

65.79

1

70,000

One Mckinley Place

2

Fully furnished

114

1

100,000

One Mckinley Place

1

Fully furnished

76

1

70,000

One Mckinley Place

2

Fully furnished

110

0

110,000

One Mckinley Place

3

Fully furnished

189

2

130,000

One Mckinley Place

3

Fully furnished

186

2

150,000

One Mckinley Place

2

Fully furnished

110

1

90,000

One Mckinley Place

1

Fully furnished

76

1

50,000

One Serendra

3

Semi-furnished

210

0

160,000

One Serendra

2

Fully furnished

139

2

125,000

One Serendra

2

Semi-furnished

134

2

115,000

One Serendra

1

Semi-furnished

79

1

80,000

Penhurst

2

Unfurnished

95

2

75,000

Penhurst

2

Unfurnished

95

2

55,000

Penhurst

3

Semi-furnished

145

1

100,000

Penhurst

3

Fully furnished

94

1

80,000

Penhurst

2

Semi-furnished

94

1

65,000

Rosewood Pointe

2

Unfurnished

49

0

60,000

Serendra

2

Unfurnished

131

1

75,000

Serendra

3

Unfurnished

108

1

90,000

Serendra

2

Semi-furnished

100

1

95,000

Serendra

3

Semi-furnished

162

0

90,000

Serendra

1

Unfurnished

80

0

70,000

Serendra

3

Unfurnished

108

0

110,000

Serendra

1

Fully furnished

54

1

50,000

Serendra

Studio

Unfurnished

43

0

30,000

Serendra

2

Fully furnished

85

1

85,000

Serendra

1

Fully furnished

40

0

50,000

Serendra

2

Semi-furnished

114

1

128,000

South of Market

1

Furnished

40

0

30,000

South of Market

1

Fully furnished

40

0

40,000

South of Market

2

Fully furnished

70.2

0

70,000

South of Market

Studio

Fully furnished

39.41

0

35,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Asia Tower

Studio

Fully furnished

37

1

25,000

Biltmore

1

Fully furnished

82

1

70,000

Biltmore

1

Fully furnished

72

1

70,000

BSA Mansion

Studio

Unfurnished

36

1

15,000

BSA Mansion

Studio

Unfurnished

36

1

15,000

Frabella

2

Fully furnished

169

0

85,000

LEGASPI VILLAGE

Frabella

2

Fully furnished

150

0

80,000

Frabella

2

Fully furnished

150

0

90,000

Greenbelt Excelsior

1

Semi-furnished

36

0

30,000

Greenbelt Park Place

1

Fully furnished

36.5

0

55,000

Greenbelt Park Place

1

Fully furnished

40

0

50,000

Greenbelt Park Place

1

Fully furnished

37

0

35,000

Greenbelt Park Place

Studio

Unfurnished

37

0

30,000

Greenbelt Park Place

1

Unfurnished

36.5

0

45,000

Greenbelt Park Place

1

Fully furnished

34.5

0

35,000

Greenbelt Park Place

Studio

Fully furnished

36

0

35,000

Greenbelt Park Place

Studio

Fully furnished

37.1

0

30,000

Greenbelt Park Place

Studio

Furnished

36.5

0

35,000

Greenbelt Park Place

Studio

Fully furnished

36

0

35,000

Greenbelt Park Place

1

Fully furnished

36.4

0

35,000

Greenbelt Park Place

1

Fully furnished

36.4

0

40,000

Greenbelt Radissons

Studio

Fully furnished

46

1

30,000

Greenbelt Radissons

Studio

Unfurnished

40.6

0

21,000

Greenbelt Radissons

Studio

Unfurnished

40.6

0

18,000

LPL Tower

3

Fully furnished

135

1

47,000

One Legazpi Park

1

Semi-furnished

60

1

50,000

One Legazpi Park

3

Fully furnished

120

2

130,000

One Legazpi Park

1

Fully furnished

64

1

60,000

One Legazpi Park

2

Fully furnished

90.77

0

110,000

One Legazpi Park

1

Fully furnished

60.25

1

70,000

One Legazpi Park

2

Fully furnished

96

1

100,000

One Legazpi Park

Studio

Fully furnished

62

1

55,000

Prince Plaza 1

Studio

Fully furnished

35.55

0

22,000

Prince Plaza 1

1

Fully furnished

35.55

1

25,000

Prince Plaza 1

Studio

Fully furnished

28.59

0

22,000

Prince Plaza 1

Studio

Unfurnished

31.32

0

18,000

Prince Plaza 2

Studio

Fully furnished

33.32

1

25,000

Prince Plaza 2

Studio

Fully furnished

27.32

0

30,000

Prince Plaza 2

Studio

Fully furnished

27.84

0

20,000

Prince Plaza 2

Studio

Fully furnished

34.86

0

22,000

Prince Plaza 2

Studio

Fully furnished

30

0

20,000

Shang Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

132

0

130,000

Shang Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

135

1

140,000

Shang Grand Tower

1

Fully furnished

80

0

90,000

Shang Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

132

1

140,000

The Asia Tower

2

Fully furnished

75

0

65,000

The Asia Tower

2

Fully furnished

75

0

65,000

The Colonade Residences

2

Fully furnished

146

1

60,000 65,000

The Colonade Residences

2

Fully furnished

139

1

The Colonade Residences

2

Fully furnished

93

1

50,000

The Residences at Greenbelt

2

Semi-furnished

126

2

140,000

Tropical Palms

1

Fully furnished

53

1

45,000

Tropical Palms

1

Fully furnished

53

1

25,000

FOR RENT

MAKATI AVE./ AYALA AVE./ KALAYAAN/ SAN ANTONIO CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Citadel Inn

Studio

Fully furnished

27

0

20,000

Citadel Inn

Studio

Fully furnished

27

0

20,000

Citadel Inn

1

Fully furnished

65.22

0

35,000

Citadel Inn

1

Fully furnished

65.22

0

35,000

Citadel Inn

Studio

Fully furnished

28

0

20,000

Citadel Inn

1

Fully furnished

50

0

32,000

Galeria de Magallanes

1

Semi-furnished

32

0

15,000

Makati Bel-Air

1

Fully furnished

50

0

22,000

Makati Bel-Air

3

Fully furnished

230

1

45,000

Makati Palace

2

Fully furnished

75

0

38,000

Makati Prime Tower

Studio

Fully furnished

23

0

12,000

Olympia

1

Furnished

65

1

50,000

One Roxas Triangle

3

Fully furnished

451

4

360,000

Pacific Palaza - Ayala

3

Fully furnished

285

2

160,000

Palm Tower

2

Fully furnished

66.56

0

30,000

Ritz Tower

3

Semi-furnished

215

2

90,000

Sison Mansion

Studio

Semi-furnished

47

1

20,000

Star Centrum Condo

1

Fully furnished

45

0

17,000

The Columns at Ayala

Studio

Fully furnished

32

0

25,000

The Columns at Ayala

Studio

Fully furnished

30

0

25,000

The Columns at Ayala

2

Unfurnised

67

1

62,000

The Collumns at Ayala

1

Fully furnished

49

1

60,000

The Columns at Ayala

1

Fully furnished

48

1

40,000

The Columns at Ayala

Studio

Fully furnished

30

0

25,000

The Columns at Ayala

1

Fully furnished

48

1

50,000

The Columns at Ayala

1

Unfurnished

48

0

26,000

West of Ayala

2

Fully furnished

82

1

65,000

West of Ayala

3

Unfurnished

118.61

1

55,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT

8 Wack Wack

2

Unfurnished

149

1

39,000

California Garden square

3

Unfurnished

57.7

0

13,000

GA Tower

2

Fully furnished

44

0

20,000

MANDALUYONG

GA Tower

2

Unfurnished

40

0

17,000

GA Tower

3

Fully furnished

73

2

45,000

GA Tower

1

Fully furnished

35

0

21,000

GA Tower

1

Fully furnished

35

0

21,000

GA Tower

2

Semi-furnished

40.55

0

20,000

GA Tower

2

Fully furnished

39.26

0

20,000

Lee Gardens

3

Unfurnished

32

0

30,000

Pioneer Highlands

1

Fully furnished

135

0

37,500

Wack Wack Twin Tower

2

Fully furnished

93

1

28,000

Wack Wack Twin Tower

2

Fully furnished

93

1

25,000

Wack Wack Twin Tower

3

Fully furnished

90

0

28,000

MANILA/ SAN JUAN/ STA. MESA CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Adriatico Place Tower 1

Studio

Semi-furnished

40.26

0

25,000

Adriatico Place Tower 2

2

Unfurnished

80.8

1

55,000

Le Mirage de Malate

1

Furnished

34

0

20,000

Le Mirage de Malate

1

Fully furnished

41

0

26,000

Le Mirage de Malate

1

Fully furnished

39

0

25,000

Le Mirage de Malate

2

Fully furnished

100

1

40,000

Le Mirage de Malate

1

Fully furnished

24

0

20,000

Popular Place Condominium

2

Unfurnished

57

1

16,500

Popular Place Condominium

2

Unfurnished

57

1

16,500

Popular Place Condominium

2

Unfurnished

57

1

16,500

Popular Place Condominium

2

Unfurnished

57

1

16,500

Popular Place Condominium

2

Unfurnished

57

1

16,500

Robinsons Place

2

Semi-furnished

75

0

50,000

Robinsons Place

1

Fully furnished

44

0

35,000

ORTIGAS CENTER CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Corinthian Executive Regency

Studio

Unfurnished

26.75

0

12,000

Corinthian Executive Regency

Studio

Unfurnished

18.5

0

10,000

East Ortigas Mansions

2

Unfurnished

80

1

17,000

Emerald Mansion

3

Unfurnished

160

1

50,000

Emerald Mansion

3

Fully furnished

160

0

60,000

Emerald Mansion

3

Fully furnished

160

0

60,000

Malayan Plaza

Studio

Fully furnished

60

1

55,000

Malayan Plaza

2

Fully furnished

95

2

95,000

Mayfield Park Residences

2

Fully furnished

48

1

30,000

Mayfield Park Residences

2

Unfurnished

48

0

18,000

Mayfield Park Residences

2

Unfurnished

48

1

20,000

Mayfield Park Residences

2

Fully furnished

65

0

30,000

Mega Plaza Condominium

3

Unfurnished

83

0

22,000

Parc Royale

1

Fully furnished

60

0

35,000

Pearl Plaza

3

Semi-furnished

167

1

40,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Bay Gardens

1

Fully furnished

56

1

35,000

Harrison Mansion

1

Fully furnished

31.1

0

13,080

Harrison Mansion

2

Bare

43.67

0

13,000

Sommerset

2

Fully furnished

63

1

22,000

Sommerset

2

Semi-furnished

83

1

18,000

AMOUNT (in Php)

PASAY CITY

PASONG TAMO CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

Cityland Pasong Tamo

3

Fully furnished

116.9

0

25,000

Cityland Pasong Tamo

3

Fully furnished

116.9

0

40,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

33

0

32,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

1

Fully furnished

47

1

30,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

33

0

25,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

2

Fully furnished

85

1

55,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

1

Fully furnished

47

0

35,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

37

0

25,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

37

0

25,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

33

1

25,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Furnished

34

0

20,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

33

1

30,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

33

1

30,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

33

1

30,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

33

0

25,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

1

Unfurnished

45

0

20,000

FOR RENT

QUEZON CITY CONDO NAME

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT

Danniel’s Mansion

2

Fully furnished

44

1

25,000

Eastwood Lafayette

Studio

Semi-furnished

36

0

15,000

Grand Eastwood Palazzo

2

Unfurnished

73

1

35,000

Mystica Towers

2

Unfurnished

36

1

20,000

Narra Heights

3

Fully furnished

112

3

50,000

New York Mansions

1

Semi-furnished

25

0

12,000

Novalesa Millenium

Studio

Semi-furnished

30.53

0

16,000

Olympic Heights

1

Fully furnished

54

0

17,000

Olympic Heights

3

Semi-furnished

77

1

35,000

Olympic Heights

1

Semi-furnished

54

1

35,000

One Orchard

2

Fully furnished

73

1

50,000

One Orchard

1

Unfurnished

58.25

1

20,000

One Orchard

1

Unfurnished

57

1

20,000

One Orchard

1

Unfurnished

57

0

20,000

Prince David

2

Semi-furnished

82

0

25,000

Regalia Park

Studio

Unfurnished

65

1

23,000

Residencia de Regina

Studio

Fully furnished

25

0

20,000

San Jose

1

Fully furnished

42

1

15,000

Skyway Twin Tower

Studio

Fully furnished

32.5

0

15,000

Spazio Bernardo

3

Fully furnished

60

1

19,500

Torre Venezia

1

Semi-furnished

35.1

1

20,000

Tropical Mandarin

1

Fully furnished

146

1

35,000

Tropical mandarin

2

Fully furnished

146

1

50,000

Xanland Place

1

Fully furnished

42

0

20,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Amorsolo East

3

Fully furnished

184

1

160,000

Amorsolo East

3

Semi-furnished

180

1

150,000

Amorsolo East

2

Fully furnished

157

1

125,000

Amorsolo East

2

Fully furnished

121

1

115,000

ROCKWELL

Amorsolo East

2

Fully furnished

150

1

130,000

Amorsolo West

2

Semi-furnished

125

1

110,000

Amorsolo West

2

Fully furnished

123

1

120,000

Hidalgo Place

3

Fully furnished

198

1

170,000

Hidalgo Place

Studio

Fully furnished

51

1

60,000 160,000

Hidalgo Place

3

Fully furnished

198

1

Hidalgo Place

2

Semi-furnished

132

1

105,000

Joya at Rockwell

2

Fully furnished

100

1

120,000

Luna Gardens

3

Fully furnished

247

1

170,000

Manansala

2

Semi-furnished

110

1

98,000

Manansala

2

Semi-furnished

110

1

85,000

Manansala

2

Fully furnished

110

1

110,000

Rizal Tower

3

Semi-furnished

283

1

180,000

Rizal Tower

3

Semi-furnished

286

1

190,000

Rizal Tower

3

Semi-furnished

286

1

180,000

Rizal Tower

3

Fully furnished

286

1

200,000

Rizal Tower

Penthouse

Fully furnished

336

1

240,000

Rizal Tower

Penthouse

Fully furnished

336

1

220,000

ROXAS BLVD. CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

Bayview International Tower

3

Fully furnished

160

1

AMOUNT (in Php) 45,000

Antel Seaview

4

Unfurnished

140

1

50,000

Bayview International Tower

4

Fully furnished

210

1

55,000

AMOUNT (in Php)

SALCEDO VILLAGE CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

Antel Platinum Tower

1

Fully furnished

50

0

30,000

Antel Platinum Tower

Studio

Fully furnished

32.35

0

28,000

Antel Platinum Tower

1

Fully furnished

53.02

1

35,000

Antel Platinum Tower

1

Fully furnished

53.02

1

35,000 35,000

Antel Platinum Tower

1

Fullly furnished

53.02

1

Antel Platinum Tower

2

Semi-furnished

101.02

1

55,000

Antel Platinum Tower

3

Fully furnished

141

1

85,000

Asian Mansion 1

Studio

Fully furnished

30

0

25,000

Crown Tower

1

Fully furnished

60

0

35,000 89,000

Easton Place

3

Fully furnished

175

1

Elizabeth Place

Studio

Fully furnished

62

0

40,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

155

0

75,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

155

0

75,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

155

0

75,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

155

0

65,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

155

0

65,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

155

0

65,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

155

0

75,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

155

0

85,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

155

0

85,000 200,000

Grand Tower

2

Fully furnished

310

0

Le Domaine

1

Fully furnished

60.17

1

30,000

Le Metropole

3

Fully furnished

179

1

70,000

Le Metropole

3

Fully furnished

179

1

70,000

Le Triomphe

2

Fully furnished

49

1

40,000

Le Triomphe

2

Fully furnished

135

1

50,000

LPL Center

3

Fully furnished

270

1

75,000

Manhattan Square

Studio

Semi-furnished

40

0

20,000

Nobel Plaza

1

Fully furnished

45.15

1

25,000

Nobel Plaza

1

Fully furnished

45.15

1

25,000

Nobel Plaza

1

Fully furnished

45.15

1

25,000

One Lafayette

1

Fully furnished

66

1

35,000

Paseo Parkview

Studio

Fully furnished

36

0

30,000

Paseo Parkview

3

Fully furnished

115

0

90,000

Regency at Salcedo

3

Semi-furnished

205

0

110,000

Salcedo Park

2

Unfurnished

179

2

70,000

Splendido Gardens

3

Unfurnished

276

1

120,000

Splendido Gardens

3

Fully furnished

270

1

110,000

Splendido Gardens

3

Unfurnished

279

1

120,000

The Peak

1

Fully furnished

67

0

27,000

The Peak

Studio

Semi-furnished

43

0

19,000

The Peak

Studio

Unfurnished

31

0

18,000

The Peak

Studio

Fully furnished

43

0

25,000

Two Salcedo Place

2

Fully furnished

137.43

2

150,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPE

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Grand Quartier I

3

Fully furnished

154

1

72,000

TAGAYTAY

condo

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CALL NOW (632) 812-3333 AYALA AVENUE CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

The Columns at Ayala

Studio

Unfurnished

30

0

3,000,000

The Columns at Ayala

1

Fully furnished

50

1

5,500,000

The Columns at Ayala

1

Unfurnished

64

1

7,500,000

BEL-AIR CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Makati Prime Tower

Studio

Fully furnished

22.51

0

1,750,000

Makati Prime Tower

1

Fully furnished

55

0

2,400,000

Makati Prime Tower

1

Fully furnished

49.85

0

3,750,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Bellagio 2

2

Bare

94

1

9,500,000

Bellagio 2

studio

Unfurnished

46

0

4,500,000

Bonifacio Ridge

1

Fully furnished

106

1

10,000,000

F1 City Center

Studio

Unfurnished

43.24

0

3,900,000

Fairways Tower

2

Unfurnished

82

2

12,000,000

FOR SALE

BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY

Fairways Tower

1

Unfurnished

52

0

5,200,000

Fairways Tower

1

Unfurnished

52

1

5,800,000

Fairways Tower

Studio

Unfurnished

40

0

4,800,000

Fairways Tower

Studio

Fully furnished

40

1

4,800,000

Fairways Tower

Studio

Unfurnished

41

1

4,500,000

Fifth Avenue Place

1

Bare

51

0

5,100,000

Forbeswood Heights

2

Unfurnished

85

1

5,900,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

48

0

4,300,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

59

0

4,000,000

Forbeswood Heights

3

Fully furnished

110

1

11,500,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

60

1

5,500,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

36.5

0

3,300,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

48

0

5,035,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

48

1

5,200,000

Forbeswood Heights

3

Fully furnished

155

1

18,500,000

Forbeswood Heights

2

Unfurnished

85

1

7,600,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

48

0

3,800,000

Forbeswood Heights

Studio

Fully furnished

40

0

3,800,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

48

1

4,880,000

Forbeswood Heights

1

Unfurnished

60

0

4,200,000

Forbeswoods Heights

1

Unfurnished

36.5

0

3,600,000

Grand Hamptons Place

3

Unfurnished

120

1

12,800,000

Kensington

1

Unfurnished

47

0

3,800,000

Kensington

2

Bare

65.79

1

5,900,000

Kensington

2

Unfurnished

66

0

5,800,000

Mckinley Park Residences

1

Unfurnished

40

0

3,300,000

One Mckinley Place

1

Unfurnished

76

1

7,500,000

One Mckinley Place

2

Fully furnished

110

1

10,800,000

One Mckinley Place

2

Fully furnished

114

1

15,000,000

One Mckinley Place

2

Fully furnished

110

1

13,500,000

One Mckinley Place

2

Fully furnished

114

1

15,500,000

One Mckinley Place

1

Semi-furnished

76

1

9,500,000

One Mckinley Place

2

Unfurnished

110

1

12,000,000

One Mckinley Place

3

Unfurnished

186

1

18,000,000

One Serendra

Penthouse

Semi-furnished

210

0

25,000,000

One Serendra

2

Unfurnished

135

2

17,500,000

One Serendra

2

Unfurnished

146

2

18,500,000

One Serendra

1

Bare

66

1

9,500,000

Penhurst

3

Unfurnished

141

1

13,000,000

Penhurst

3

Bare

93

0

8,700,000

Serendra

2

Unfurnished

124

1

15,300,000

Serendra

3

Unfurnished

127

2

17,000,000

Serendra

3

Unfurnished

105

1

13,000,000

Serendra

Studio

Fully furnished

36

1

6,500,000

Serendra

3

Semi-furnished

189

1

25,000,000

Serendra

3

Unfurnished

115

1

14,500,000

Serendra

2

Unfurnished

73

1

9,000,000

Serendra

1

Unfurnished

60

0

6,800,000

Serendra

2

Semi-furnished

134

2

16,000,000

South of Market

1

Fully furnished

41

0

4,000,000

South of Market

2

Fully furnished

75

0

6,500,000

South of Market

1

Fully furnished

36

1

4,600,000

South of Market

1

Fully furnished

38

1

4,800,000

South of Market

1

Fully furnished

39

1

4,900,000

South of Market

1

Fully furnished

40.84

0

4,480,000

South of Market

2

Fully furnished

74.7

0

8,000,000

South of Market

2

Fully furnished

76

1

8,500,000

Two Serendra

3

Unfurnished

115

1

13,500,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Cityland Dela Rosa

3

Unfurnished

60

1

4,700,000

DELA ROSA Cityland Dela Rosa

3

Unfurnished

60

1

4,500,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 1

Studio

Unfurnished

20

0

1,400,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 1

1

Fully furnished

28

0

1,900,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 1

1

Unfurnished

29

0

2,000,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 1

Studio

Semi-furnished

20

0

1,400,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 1

Studio

Semi-furnished

27.36

0

1,800,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 2

1

Unfurnished

31.6

0

2,500,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 2

3

Unfurnished

120

0

6,500,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 2

2

Fully furnished

68

0

3,500,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 2

1

Unfurnished

32

0

2,400,000

Cityland Makati Executive Tower 2

2

Fully furnished

68

0

3,400,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Greenbelt Radisson

2

Semi-furnished

109.2

1

9,900,000

Asian Mansion 1

1

Fully furnished

58

0

5,022,000

Asian Mansion 2

2

Unfurnished

60.38

1

5,200,000

BSA Mansion

1

Fully furnished

56

BSA Mansion

Studio

Unfurnished

36

1

3,000,000

BSA Mansion

Studio

Unfurnished

36

1

3,000,000

BSA Suites

1

Fully furnished

67

1

5,800,000

BSA Tower

1

Fully furnished

45

1

4,500,000

Greenbelt Excelsior

1

Semi-furnished

36

0

3,500,000

Greenbelt Parkplace

1

Unfurnished

36.5

1

5,200,000

Greenbelt Parkplace

Studio

Fully furnished

36

1

5,000,000

Greenbelt Parkplace

Studio

Unfurnished

36

1

5,500,000

LEGASPI VILLAGE

4,500,000

Greenbelt Parkplace

1

Fully furnished

48.5

0

5,900,000

Greenbelt Parkplace

1

Fully furnished

62

0

5,500,000

Greenbelt Parkplace

2

Fully furnished

154

1

14,400,000

Greenbelt Radisson

Studio

Unfurnished

34.3

0

3,800,000

Greenbelt Radisson

Studio

Unfurnished

36

0

3,500,000

Greenbelt Radisson

Studio

Unfurnished

36

0

3,500,000

Greenbelt Radisson

Studio

Unfurnished

40

0

4,000,000

Greenbelt Residences

1

Unfurnished

78

1

11,000,000

Greenbelt Residences

1

Unfurnished

60

0

7,800,000

One Legazpi Park

Studio

Fully furnished

40

1

6,500,000

One Legazpi Park

1

Semi-furnished

62.46

1

7,300,000.00

One Legazpi Park

1

Semi-furnished

60

1

7,800,000

One Legazpi Park

1

Furnished

66

1

8,000,000

Prince Plaza 1

1

Fully furnished

35.55

1

5,000,000

Prince Plaza 1

1

Fully furnished

30.92

0

2,600,000

Prince Plaza 1

1

Fully furnished

71.1

1

5,800,000

Prince Plaza 2

Studio

Semi-furnished

29

0

2,300,000

Prince Plaza 2

Studio

Fully furnished

27.32

0

3,500,000

Prince Plaza 2

Studio

Fully furnished

27.84

0

3,000,000

Prince Plaza 2

Studio

Fully furnished

34.86

1

3,700,000

The Residences at Greenbelt

3

Unfurnished

187

0

18,700,000

The Residences at Greenbelt

2

Unfurnished

123

1

17,000,000

The Residences at Greenbelt

3

Unfurnished

190

2

23,000,000

The Residences at Greenbelt

3

Unfurnished

187

2

24,000,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

FOR SALE

MANDALUYONG 8 Wack Wack

3

Unfurnished

174

1

10,500,000

California Garden

2

Unfurnished

57.5

0

2,200,000

California Garden Square

2

Unfurnished

57.5

0

2,300,000

California Garden Square

2

Unfurnished

57.5

0

2,500,000

California Garden Square

2

Bare

57

0

2,200,000

California Garden Square

2

Semi-furnished

57.5

0

3,000,000

California Garden square

2

Fully furnished

57.5

1

3,700,000

California Garden square

3

Unfurnished

81

0

3,300,000

California Garden Square

2

Unfurnished

57.5

0

2,200,000

Cityland Shaw

Studio

Unfurnished

28

0

1,700,000

Cityland Shaw

1

Unfurnished

50

0

3,300,000

Cityland Wack Wack Royal Mansion

3

Fully furnished

99.16

1

6,500,000

Paragon Plaza

2

Bare

110

1

3,700,000 1,800,000

Paragon Plaza

Studio

Unfurnished

48

1

Paragon Plaza

2

Fully furnished

100

1

4,200,000

Paragon Plaza

2

Semi-furnished

100

1

4,200,000

Princeville

1

Unfurnished

24

1

1,200,000

Regalia Park

2

Unfurnished

62

0

2,400,000

Victoria Station

2

Unfurnished

42

0

2,150,000

Wack Wack Twin Tower

1

Fully furnished

86

1

4,000,000

Wack Wack Twin Tower

Studio

Semi-furnished

33

0

2,500,000

Wack Wack Twin Tower

3

Fully furnished

187

1

9,000,000

Wack Wack Twin Tower

3

Fully furnished

165

1

9,000,000

Wack Wack Twin Tower

1

Semi-furnished

86

1

4,500,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Adriatico Grand Residences

2

Unfurnished

54.44

1

4,500,000

Alpha Grandview

2

Fully furnished

86

0

7,200,000

MANILA

Asiawealth

1

Unfurnished

31

1

2,500,000

Cityland Pacific Regency

1

Unfurnished

48.34

0

2,800,000

Cityland Vito Cruz Tower

Studio

Unfurnished

65.34

1

2,900,000

Cityland Vito Cruz Tower

Studio

Fully furnished

25

0

1,600,000

Cityland Vito Cruz Tower 2

Studio

Unfurnished

25.03

0

1,600,000

Cityland Vito Cruz Tower 2

1

Furnished

27

0

1,900,000

Cityland Vito Cruz Tower 2

Studio

Unfurnished

24

0

1,600,000

Le Mirage

1

Bare

41

0

2,712,150

Le Mirage

2

Furnished

77.64

0

6,600,000

Le Mirage

1

Furnished

38

0

2,900,000

Le Mirage

2

Semifurnished

77.64

0

5,600,000

Le Mirage

2

Furnished

140

0

Marbella 1

Studio

Unfurnished

50

0

10,000,000 2,000,000

Marbella 2

Studio

Fully furnished

59

0

2,500,000

Marbella 2

2

Fully furnished

282

0

8,500,000

Robinsons Adriatico Tower 1

Studio

Unfurnished

40.2

0

3,600,000

Robinsons Place Tower 1

3

Fully furnished

149

1

12,000,000

Royal Plaza

2

Unfurnished

135

0

4,800,000

Vellagio Tower

1

Semi-furnished

46.16

0

3,800,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

ORTIGAS CENTER AIC

1

Unfurnished

56

1

3,800,000

AIC Grande

1

Unfurnished

68

1

4,200,000 9,918,000

Belvedere Tower

Penthouse

Semi-furnished

348

2

Cityland Corinthian Executive Regency

3

Bare

72.62

1

6,500,000

Cityland Mega Plaza

3

Unfurnished

83

0

3,900,000

Cityland Mega Plaza

2

Semi-furnished

79

1

3,500,000

Cityland Mega Plaza

1

Unfurnished

42.5

0

2,600,000

Cityland Mega Plaza

1

Fully furnished

45

1

4,000,000

Cityland Megaplaza

1

Fully furnished

35.62

0

2,200,000

Emerald Mansion

3

Unfurnished

160

1

8,000,000

Galleria Regency

2

Fully furnished

87

2

11,000,000

Malayan Plaza

1

Fully furnished

56.66

0

4,200,000

Parc Chateau

3

Unfurnished

224

1

7,500,000

Parc Chateau

3

Unfurnished

375

2

9,500,000

Parc Royale

Penthouse

Semi-furnished

348

2

16,000,000

Parc Royale

2

Semi-furnished

170

1

5,500,000

Parc Royale

3

Fully furnished

347

2

15,000,000

Pearl Plaza

3

Semi-furnished

167

1

7,000,000

Pearl Plaza

1

Semi-furnished

163

1

7,000,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Cityland Pasong Tamo

1

Unfurnished

46

0

1,900,000

Cityland Pasong Tamo

2

Unfurnished

66.99

0

3,000,000

Cityland Pasong Tamo

3

Unfurnished

116.9

0

6,450,000

Cityland Pasong Tamo

Studio

Fully furnished

21

0

1,600,000

Cityland Pasong Tamo

3

Fully furnished

161.94

0

6,000,000

Cityland Pasong Tamo

3

Semi-furnished

116

1

6,000,000

Cityland Pasong Tamo

3

Unfurnished

101

1

4,000,000

Cityland Pasong Tamo

Studio

Fully furnished

26

0

1,200,000

Cityland Pasong Tamo

2

Unfurnished

69

0

2,500,000

PASONG TAMO

Cityland Pasong Tamo

1

Fully furnished

34

1

3,700,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Penthouse

Fully furnished

226

1

16,000,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Penthouse

Fully furnished

180

1

12,000,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

Studio

Fully furnished

37

0

3,000,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

1

Fully furnished

46

0

3,800,000

Oriental Gardens Makati

1

Fully furnished

46

1

4,500,000

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

QUEZON CITY CONDO NAMES Adelina Condominium II

2

Unfurnished

50

1

2,200,000

Bellevue Plaza

3

Semi-furnished

115

1

3,500,000

Danielle’s Condo

Studio

Unfurnished

21

1

1,300,000

El Pueblo One

2

Fully furnished

20

0

900,000

Emerald Square Condo

1

Unfurnished

38

0

1,850,000

Emerald Tower

Studio

Unfurnished

37

0

1,250,000

Francesca

2

Fully furnished

43

1

2,200,000

Grand Eastwood Palazzo

Studio

Unfurnished

34.5

0

2,500,000

Grand Eastwood Palazzo

2

Unfurnished

73

1

6,400,000

Landsbergh Place

1

Unfurnished

49

0

2,450,000

Marcel Tower

1

Unfurnished

62.6

0

2,500,000

Mayfield Park Resort

2

Unfurnished

63.75

0

2,100,000

Pasig Real Mansion

Studio

Unfurnished

26

0

800,000

President Tower

1

Unfurnished

52.82

0

1,800,000

President Tower

Studio

Unfurnished

41.13

0

1,800,000

Prince David Condominium

Studio

Fully furnished

34

0

2,210,000

Residencia de Regina

Studio

Semi-furnished

25

0

1,850,000

Residencia de Regina

Studio

Semi-furnished

25

0

1,850,000

Residencia de Regina

Studio

Semi-furnished

25

0

1,850,000

Residencia de Regina

Studio

Semi-furnished

25

0

1,850,000

Residencia de Regina

Studio

Semi-furnished

25

0

1,850,000

Residencia de Regina

Studio

Semi-furnished

25

0

1,850,000

Residencia de Regina

Studio

Semi-furnished

25

0

1,850,000

Rosemont Tower

2

Unfurnished

98

0

3,800,000

San Jose

1

Fully furnished

42

1

1,500,000

SJB Centro Plaza

1

Fully furnished

65.87

0

3,500,000

Skyway Twin Tower

3

Unfurnished

305

2

13,900,000

Spazio Bernardo

1

Fully furnished

30

0

1,600,000

The Tower at Emerald Square

Studio

Unfurnished

38

0

2,000,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php) 10,000,000

FOR SALE

ROCKWELL Amorsolo

1

1

79

1

Hidalgo Place

1

1

75

1

8,500,000

Joya at Rockwell

1 (loft type)

1

75

1

7,700,000

Joya at Rockwell

2

2

100

2

12,000,000

Joya at Rockwell

1

Unfurnished

57

0

6,500,000

Manansala

1

1

70

1

7,000,000

Manansala

1

1

64

1

8,000,000

Manansala

1

Unfurnished

66

0

8,500,000 9,400,000

Manansala

2

1

79

1

One Rockwell

Studio

Unfurnished

27

0

2,800,000

Rizal

3

3

244

3

25,000,000

CONDO NAMES

UNIT TYPES

FURNISHINGS

FLOOR AREA (in sq.m.)

PARKING SLOT

AMOUNT (in Php)

Antel Platinum Tower

2

Unfurnished

101

1

8,000,000

Easton Place

3

Unfurnished

189

1

12,500,000

Elizabeth Place

Penthouse

Unfurnished

267

1

19,000,000

Elizabeth Place

1

Furnished

62

0

5,000,000

Elizabeth Place

2

Furnished

96

0

7,500,000

Elizabeth Place

3

Fully furnished

184.4

2

14,000,000

Elizabeth Place

3

Semi-furnished

184.4

1

12,500,000

Grand Soho Makati

1

Unfurnished

44

1

4,750,000

Le Triomphe

2

Fully furnished

135

1

7,500,000

LPL Manor

1

Fully furnished

59

1

4,500,000

LPL Manor

1

Fully furnished

59

1

4,000,000

One Lafayette Square

1

Unfurnished

60

1

4,800,000

One Lafayette Square

1

Semi-furnished

60

1

5,000,000

One Lafayette Square

1

Unfurnished

66

0

5,000,000

One Lafayette Square

3

Fully furnished

174

2

14,000,000

Parc Regent

3

Unfurnished

165

1

10,000,000

Paseo Parkview Suites

Studio

Fully furnished

37

1

3,500,000

Paseo Parkview Suites

1

Fully furnished

79

0

7,800,000

Paseo Parkview Suites

Studio

Semi-furnished

36

0

3,100,000

Prince Tower

1

Fully furnished

61.18

0

3,000,000

Salcedo Park

4

Unfurnished

224

2

14,000,000

SALCEDO VILLAGE

Salcedo Park

4

Unfurnished

224

1

14,000,000

Splendido Gardens

3

Fully furnished

276

2

14,900,000

The Peak Tower

2

Semi-furnished

112

1

6,500,000

happenings

Tan’s Eton Properties and Sy’s SM Hypermarket seal partnership

(From left) Michael Tan, Asia Brewery Inc. COO; Robert Kwee, SM Hypermarket EVP; Herbert Sy, SM Hypermarket President; Harry C. Tan, Eton Vice Chairman and CEO; Lucio Tan Jr., Eton Director; Danilo Ignacio, Eton President and COO.

Eton Properties Philippines, Inc. recently signed a deal with SM Hypermarket to be its anchor tenant in the commercial center it is developing in the mixed-use complex dubbed Eton Centris in Quezon City. The SM Hypermarket will be located in Centris Station, the main shopping area of the 12-hectare Eton Centris project strategically located at the corner of EDSA and Quezon Avenue. The hypermarket is

scheduled to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2009. Centris Station will have direct link to the Metro Railway Transit 3 Quezon Avenue Station and will feature retail stores and other conveniences. It will be complemented by Centris Walk and Cyberpod Centris. Centris Walk is a high-end dining and retail strip featuring a wide variety of upscale restaurants and bars as well as

First Baron Residences signs contract with BDO Trust and Investments Group CWPM, Inc. recently appointed Banco de Oro Unibank, Inc. - Trust and Investments Group, the Philippines' second largest bank, as its Collection and Paying Agent. The contract signing officially opens the trust account for accepting all payments from its clients

94 | CondoCentral

which will be used solely for the project. Present during the signing were Kathleen R. Lindaya, BDO Senior Manager, Atty. Susan J. Atienza, BDO Senior Assistant Vice President, Cesar L. Wee, Jr., President of CWPM, Inc., and Rolando D. Esguerra, BDO First Vice President.

top brands and retail shops. It is slated for completion by the third quarter of 2009. Cyberpod Centris, on the other hand, features seven build-to-suit office buildings for business process outsourcing companies. It is scheduled for turnover by December this year. Eton Centris forms part of the 250-hectare property that encompasses the North and East Triangle and Veterans

Memorial Park, which is envisioned by the Quezon City government as the next central business district. For more details, call 845-3866 or visit www.eton.com.ph.

happenings

Focus Ventures opens Chana and FAW showroom

Opening remarks by Mr. Stephen Sy, President of Focus Ventures, Inc.

Focus Ventures Inc., the Philippine exclusive distributor of Chana automobiles and First Automobile Works (FAW) trucks, opened its showroom in a ceremony attended by the Chinese outgoing Ambassador to the Philippines Song Tao, Trade and Industry Undersecretary Elmer Hernandez, other dignitaries, and members of the press. Focus Ventures is introducing Smart Motoring Solutions, featuring the reliability and fuel efficiency of two of China's leading automotive brands:

Chana and First Automobile Works (FAW). Chana Motors is China's leading manufacturer of minivans and China's fourth largest vehicle manufacturer while FAW is China's number one vehicle manufacturer. Chana was launched in the Philippines in April 2008 at the Manila International Auto Show. Focus Ventures then showcased the complete Chana vehicle lineup, featuring the flagship Benni subcompact. Since then, Chana has been providing transportation solutions for individuals, private businesses, and local government units. The Multi-carry MPV has proven to be an effective and reliable vehicle for many of these customers. Chana vehicles proved their reliability and durability during the 86-day, 26,000-km trip from Chongqing, China to Johannesburg, South Africa: the Chana Trax Expedition. The route passed through Pakistan and through Dubai, Oman, Yemen, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, and Botswana. The Benni, CM8 and the mini-truck units came straight off the production line in China and crossed these countries in conditions far more suited for rugged 4x4s. Chana has presented the market with the widest variations of compact vehicles: the Benni hatchback, and four different configurations of mini-vans and mini-

trucks. Chana vehicles have the 1.0L and 1.3L, 4-cylinder, 16-valve EFI engine that are Euro-III compliant in ratings. All Chana vehicles are priced from PhP279,000 to PhP499,000. Founded in 1953, the FAW Group is China's number one vehicle manufacturer. Through steady expansion and joint ventures with other automobile giants such as Toyota, Volkswagen and Mazda, it has become the top vehicle manufacturer in China. In 2007, its car sales exceeded 1.4 million units. FAW 4-wheeler and 6-wheeler trucks feature one of the most powerful engines

in its class as standard: a 3.2 liter inline-four diesel with 86 hp for the 4-wheeler and 118 for the 6-wheeler and has a maximum torque of 210 Nm@ 21000rpm and 300Nm@2000rpm respectively. With these features, FAW proves its worth as a leader in the truck industry. Focus Ventures, Inc. is housed in a 3500 sqm lot boasting of a large showroom and service center located along Sheridan Street in Mandaluyong. This will provide the essential parts and service support for these vehicles. Parts are readily available since almost all vehicles carry the same engine (1.3L, except for the 1000cc Multi-carry Single-cab). This results to a more efficient storage and supply of parts. The service area, on the other hand, is composed of 14 work bays and an oven-paint booth and will be manned by experienced and highly trained personnel. The Chana passenger car and minivans are backed up by a three-year, 100,000 km warranty while the CHANA mini-trucks and FAW full-size trucks have 1-year warranty or 20,000km whichever comes first. Focus Ventures, Inc. is optimistic that this is the opportune time to launch these brands. Customers are seeking out fuelefficient and reliable vehicles, and a more reasonably priced alternative to their transportation needs. Chana and FAW are poised to provide Smart Motoring Solutions to a demanding public.

Ribbon cutting participants (L-R): Stephen Sy, Heng Dong Lim, Ambassador Song Tao, Mayor Benhur Abalos of Mandaluyong, Yang Lin, Vice GM of Chana, and Tony Ou, Chana Commercial Manager (Asia).

CondoCentral | 95

epilogue

The future holds a bright promise The radical design of the new China Central Television (CCTV) Building in the Central Business District of Beijing conveys strong optimism for the future. Architects Rem Koolhaas and Ole Scheeren's design is estimated to cost $600M which includes the engineering headaches of this architectural wonder. The CCTV Building are two towers leaning at 6º with her metallic spines bent 90º to meet, to form and to complete the "Short Pants" structure 234-meters above ground. Then again, the future is in our hands. moetwain from Beijing

96 | CondoCentral