CommTalk 02: The Investment Issue by Design For Tomorrow

It’s full speed ahead in Cebu City, navigating you to new horizons of opportunity.

INNOVATION SETS A STEADY COURSE In the Southern Philippines’ premier city, Alveo Land transforms the urban landscape with groundbreaking solutions for living and working well. Rising to the crest of economic progress, Cebu opens countless possibilities for growth. With a wealth of natural resources nurturing foremost local and multinational companies—the city anchors itself as the trade and tourism gateway of Visayas. Alveo Land maximizes the potential of your investments, revealing the most coveted residential and business addresses in the region. Forming dynamic communities rooted in over 80 years of Ayala Land property development, Alveo Land charts new territories magnifying a tradition of industry excellence in the Queen City of the South.

SEDONA PARC Designer Parkside Living

SOLINEA City Resort Living

BPI CEBU CORPORATE CENTER Innovative Workscapes

VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS AT THE AYALA CENTER CEBU, 3/F THE TERRACES AND 3/F NEW WING. CALL CEBU (6322) 417 7777 OR MANILA (632) 848 5100 OR VISIT WWW.ALVEOLAND.COM.PH Sedona Parc HLURB TLS No. 0006 | Solinea HLURB LTS Tower One: 26253, Tower Two: 0020, Tower Three: 0037 BPI Cebu Corporate Center HLURB TLS No. 0040 | Rufino Hermann S. Gutierrez PRC – REBL NO. 0004771

Sharleen Chua Editor in Chief

eunice acejo Managing Editor

robert lao Publisher

Commtalk Magazine is a custom lifestyle publication of ALVEO. Opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors and contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, staff and management of Alveo Land Corporation. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. ©2015. All rights reserved. For information or comments regarding this publication please contact Alveo Corporate Center

728 28th Street, Bonifacio High Street Bonifacio Global City, 1634 Taguig City, Metro Manila Philippines Telephone (02) 848 5100 info@alveoland.com.ph www.alveoland.com.ph

Commtalk Magazine is a custom publication produced by DESIGN FOR TOMORROW in behalf of ALVEO LAND CORPORATION.

DESIGN FOR TOMORROW Editorial Direction, concepts, design, creative and art direction

Suite 1038 City & Land Mega Plaza ADB Avenue, Corner Garnet Road Ortigas Center 1605 Pasig City The Philippines nb@designfortomorrow.com.ph www. designfortomorrow.com.ph

RIC GINDAP Editorial, Creative & Design Director

MARLON LACANILAO Associate Creative Director Art Director

GRISEL GARCIA ESTELLE PIENCENAVES Bimbo Santos Managing Features Editors

ELIZABETH TEOTICO Associate Art Director Senior Designer

ANDREA HECHANOVA Associate Editor

ralph Neil Carreon Mariel Sayuno Designers

ROMAN ROXAS Project Director Bonnapart Galeng Style & Sittings Editor Associate Art Director Levenson Rodriguez Fashion Editor JOYCE ANN CAPONPON Production Officer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS (MB) Mario Banzon (NC) Nonito Cabrera (DGC) Don Gil K. Carreon (RC) Reema Chanco (ADC) Aaron Alfred T. Dela Cruz (JBC) Joselito B. Cruz (SDC) Stef Dela Cruz, M.D. (RMF) Ruth Manimtim-Floresca (DG) Dino Galura (AG) Ana Gamboa (KG) Kristine Gonzalez (GG) Grisel Garcia (TMG) Therese M. Gutierrez (AH) Andrea Hechanova (LJ) Laarni Jocson (IM) Ime Morales (MM) Miko Morelos (MDP) Maan D’asis Pamaran (CP) Chrissie Peria (KS) Kat Sales (MAS) Ma. Anne Sy (MT) Atty. Meg Tangan (MDV) Mia De Vega (LV) Lolita Villa

CELEBRATING CREATIVITY AND COMMERCE

Alveo Land highlights the vision and innovation of our progressive cultures and creative enterprise. With an unwavering commitment to revolutionizing the concept of living well, Alveoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s groundbreaking developments cater to both sustainability and quality of life.

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Envisioning a Better Future

Welcome to our special investment issue. Th is is where Commtalk proudly showcases the energizing spir it of our local creative enterprises, and recognizes the nation’s enormous potential for even greater successes to come. Over the past few decades, the Philippines has been cultivating local communities with a progressive approach towards interests and traditions. Aiming towards creating a greater change for the economy, we have been adapting a new approach towards chang ing lifestyles and our overall well-being for the better. As we now share these exciting stories, there is so much more to learn from and discover. May this hopef ully become an enjoyable source of personal insight as well as inspire and encourage everyone to dream big for our country.

Sharleen Chua editor in chief

_ sr. marketing manager alveo land

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A New perspective ON PHILIPPINE CREATIVE ECONOMICS Our country is a popular home to multiple talents admired widely across the world. We easily adapt to change and take things into new perspective by integrating them with our customs and culture. This is what Commtalk communicates: bringing focus towards the potential our country holds. Our local creatives then bring light towards Filipino modernization and continuously make way for progress and better living. By sharing stories behind these local enterprises who make our country better, we constantly transform lifestyles and contribute to keeping Filipino traditions alive within transitioning times. We then recognize how they put the â&#x20AC;&#x153;heart in art,â&#x20AC;? and how they paint colors into our everyday lives.

eunice acejo managing editor

_ marketing head alveo land

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The Commitment and Craft to Innovation

Achieving change is having perseverance, conceptualization, and patience. Creative ideas mold society into the innovative generation it is today, and throughout the decades, Alveo Land continues to commit itself to advocating the Philippines. We aspire for new alternatives, and we constantly give importance to making quality and sustainable solutions that could introduce us to living well. Inspiration and opportunity surround us ever ywhere we go, and help us grow as a community and as a nation. This issue is an integrated platform of heritage, technolog y, and economy inspired by our homegrown creative and local culture. These stories are meant to create a wider awareness of sustainability and social responsibility, as everything we do is masterplanned for the best of future generations to come.

robert lao publisher

_ president alveo land

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MANIFESTO

contents

010 Time to Shine | Why now is the best time to invest in the Philippines

INNOVATION

018 Alveo corporate center | The

048

The perks of City parkside

livi n g | Uncover Makati’s quaint side of city living

050 The Transformation of Circuit Makati | From legendary to postmodern: an urban entertainment district rises but stays true to its roots

concept behind the iconic commemoration of

056 Arca South: Metro Manila’s

Alveo’s new headquarters

Upcoming CBD | Alveo Land begins a new phase of possibilities with an anticipated busi-

020

Alveo Mobile | A virtual walk-

through of the country’s first real estate mobile app

ness district in Southern Metro Manila

060 Cebu’s SME Scene | Building your business in the South

SUSTAINABILITY

024 Domesticity | Domesticity introduces new stills into the Negros farm industry

by producing beautiful native pieces.

026

062

Mindanao’s winning ad -

dress | How Alveo redefines city living in the prestigious city of Davao

064

IN THE LAND OF STARBUCKS

AND 3-in-1: homegrown COFFEE DECOMET | Geared Solutions for the

SERVES MORE LIMELIGHT | Coffee growers

Future –Introducing the COMET jeepney as a re-

in Mindanao persevere in both the local and

solve to pave better roads for a progressive econ-

global market

omy and a cleaner environment

028 Woven Dreams | Boundfor T’nalak

066 Seda: The Boutique Luxury | A story on Filipino hospitality at its finest

interweaves art and heritage for a greater cause

032

Coconelas | Beautiful Collective

Creativity –A fashionable solution to an incessant social problem

034

scribbles on hyacinth | How

material for a social enterprise

| A fresh perspective

on creative startups

072

Campus Town Charm in the

Big City | Why Quezon City is Metro Manila’s Bayani Brew: Brewing for

the Millennial Heroes | A homegrown brew promoting national pride

070 Top opportunities for Entr epr en eu rs

the water hyacinth became an unexpected raw

036

PROSPECTS

040 11 Finalists of BNG | Be the Next Gkonomist challenges young entrepreneurs to

northern hotbed for business

076 Traditional VS Real Estate Investments | Finding potential in tangible and intangible investments

innovate quality Filipino products for Gawad

078 Survival Guide to the Food

Kalinga communities

Biz | Tips on keeping up with progressive tastes in the food industry

FOCUS

044

Emerging Regional busi-

ness hubs | A glimpse into the underlying Portico: Courtyard Living

in the City | Presenting a charming enclave tucked within the bustling metropolis of Ortigas

108

080

potential of Pampanga, Cebu, and Davao

084 personal investments: making worthwhile decisions | The basics you need for investing

086

Sp ot ti n g Goo d Acco u n -

108 Gustare: The Hidden Gem |

tants: Allies of Successful Busi-

Discover unexplored flavors with Gustareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

nesses | Finding qualities you can trust

palatable and diverse dining experience

088 Propelling Potential in Cen-

116 National culinary tours |

tral Luzon | Ayala Land taps the potential

Cultural dishes across the regions

of Central Luzon with a mixed-use development settled in Porac, Pampanga

126 Curating Your Lifestyle | A perspective on making healthier life choices

CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP

092 alchemy | Entrepreneurship and delightful confections

094 A Uniquely Pinoy Caffeine

128 Fitness | Personalize your fitness regimen to match your specific needs and hectic lifestyle

130 Filipino cuisine | How Filipino cuisine is embraced locally and around the world

Blend | Why artisanal cafĂŠ owners are cap-

132 A Creative Environment for

turing the market in the coffee industry

Kids | When art entertains and educates

096 State of The Art: Escolta

young minds

Featuring 98B | Experience culture, a taste

134 KID CRAFTS FOR LAZY AFTER-

of vision, and a sense of creative community

NOONS | DIY crafts to fill empty weekends

098 MUNI A Collaborative Com-

and rainy afternoons

munity for Mindful Living | A creative

136 The Ultimate Role-Playing | A

community advocates change through mindful

perfect play center for educating on careers at an

living and alternative lifestyle options

early age

102 From Employee to Entrepre-

138 Economics of Home Furnish-

neur | Four inspiring individuals leave the cor-

ings | Finding cleverly designed functional

porate world in pursuit of their true passions

furniture for your home

140 C r e at i n g LIFE + STYLE

Yo u r H o m e O f -

fice | Curating your office space into a good working environment

106 Crisp on 28th: your little se-

144 Investing in style | A story of busi-

cret in bgc | A quaint cafe opens its doors

ness trends in a timeless fashion

within the quiet streets of BGC, Taguig

132

TIME TO SHINE: A report on the Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cusp of growth ill us t ra t i on R a l p h N e i l C arr e o n

It has been said several times but the message is clear and simple. Now is the best time to invest in the Philippines.

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sia’s Rising Tiger – this has been the newest

market efficiency, infrastructure, health and primary

mark of the Philippines. Showing impressive

education, technological readiness and market size.

economic growth rates and expanding by 6.8

T h e Wo r l d B a n k ’s D o i n g B u s i n e s s r e p o r t

percent in 2012 to 7.2 percent in 2013, we are being

for 2014 a lso showed t hat t he Ph i l ippines was

known as one of the fastest growing countries in Asia.

among the list of economies which made the big-

The government was also fast to notice and forecast

g e st i mprovement i n bu si ne ss reg u lat ion, i m-

the implication of this economic development. Ac-

p r o v i ng it s r a n k i ng 3 0 not c he s t o 10 8 t h f r om

cording to the Department of Trade and Industry, “the

138th out of 189 countr ies in the prev ious year.

combination of high economic growth with low inflation is really a desirable situation, leading us to quite

A PROMISE OF GOOD GOVERNANCE | Domingo said

stable prices and a very stable business environment.”

the Aquino administration’s thrust of good governance and the fight against corruption provided the

ATTRACTING GLOBAL ATTENTION | Internation-

groundwork for the creation of an improved business

al organizations have also noted the potential being

environment. He further explained that, “the govern-

brought about by this positive change.

ment has been very busy establishing an attractive

The World Economic Forum’s Global Competitive-

business environment, which means that you reduce

ness Report tracks the competitiveness landscape of

the risk that a business faces, whether it be financial

148 economies by looking into the drivers of produc-

risk, environmental risk, regulatory risk or any kind of

tivity and prosperity, and the Philippines has seen

risk. That’s really what we’re trying to strive for.”

its ranking improve to the 59 th spot for 2014 from 85th

At the House of Representatives, House Speaker Fe-

place in 2010. The ranking improvement was due to

liciano Belmonte Jr. has filed House Resolution No. 1 to

the country’s progress in terms of innovation, institu-

introduce amendments to the Constitution’s econom-

tions, financial market development, goods and labor

ic provisions, which limits foreign ownership to 40 percent in certain sectors. The proposal which seeks to add the phrase “unless other w ise prov ided by law” w ill allow Cong ress to pass laws t hat would ease t he foreig n ownership restrictions. Congress also wants to pass other measures that will support further improvement in the country’s competitiveness. These measures include the anti-trust or competition policy that will create a Philippine Fair Trade Commission to prosecute those engaged in unfair, deceptive, and anti-competitive

trade practices. In addition, the fiscal incentives

other facets of our country (including infrastructure,

bill also seeks to simplify the grant of incentives.

safety and security), it is indeed a long way to go for the Philippines.

THE COUNTRY’S MOST VALUABLE ASSET | While

It is a significant achievement as early as now, that

favorable economic conditions and an improved busi-

we recognize the Filipino people as the country’s most

ness climate attract investments, the trade official

important asset, and that the government has been in-

said the country’s biggest advantage as a location for

vesting heavily on health and education to further im-

business is its people.

prove the quality of the workforce.

“The big aspects are, our people are English speaking. Our people are loyal to their employers. Our people ac-

A HOLISTIC EFFORT FOR GROWTH | Every year, the

tually like to work, so if you treat them well, they work

government, through the Technical Education and

very well for you and they stay with you for a long time.

Skills Development Authority (TESDA) spends for the

Those are the traits that make the human resource of

training of 1.5 million people. TESDA has also estab-

the Philippines so in–demand globally,” he said. Fur-

lished partnerships with the private sector for the con-

thermore, the Philippines has a young working popu-

duct of training Filipino workers.

lation with an average age of twenty-three years old

They recently signed an agreement with the Semi-

– being the youngest in the world. As young people

conductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines

enter the workforce, more individuals will be spend-

Inc. which groups Filipino and foreign electronics

ing for products and that will provide a boost to the economic growth of the country. “That’s why from a purely demographic standpoint, we are poised for high growth rates in the next ten, twenty, up to thirty years,” Domingo added. However, the high growth rate scenario will not materialize overnight. With the amount of improvement we need to take on all the

The next few years will test the mettle of every Filipino living in Metro Manila. Call it, in street parlance, tiis-ganda.

ritical infrastructure has finally gotten a bigger share in the national budget, meaning more roads,

seaports, and airports are being put up.

187

COUNTRIES

Government officials appealed to motorists for patience and understanding, as a series of infrastructure projects go on full steam in the coming months. There is

108th

the connector road that fuses together the North and South Luzon Expressways. After much debate and negotiations, the plans for the connector road which have languished in the drawing board, will finally

138th

see the light of day. Not only that, there are other projects that will also be starting: the Lawton Bridge which would connect Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong with the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) across Pasig River, the line extensions of the Light Rail Transit

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firms with operations in the country, for a program

nology – business process outsourcing (IT-BPO), which

that will involve training of existing workers and cov-

is also a big employment generator, set to have a mil-

er pre-employment training of incoming workers in

lion direct employees from just about 5,000 twelve

the industry.

years ago.

The Depar tment of Science and Technolog y is also implement ing a t raining prog ram directed for machinists.

The country also remains a preferred destination both for voice and non-voice services in the world. Domingo said those who have been to the country

“We firmly believe in the power of business to generate jobs and thereby foster sustainable inclusive growth,” Domingo said.

or have existing operations here are already aware of what the Philippines has to offer. He said the key in promoting the country as an in-

Both foreign and domestic firms are beginning to invest in the manufacturing sector, which has been

vestment destination is inviting company officials to visit and see the developments and opportunities.

posting strong growth over the past two years. This al-

Those in the private sector also have a role to play in

lows more people to benefit from the country’s strong

making the Philippines realize its growth potential by

economic growth by creating jobs.

sharing their experiences and inviting their partners

The government is also pushing for investments in

or other companies overseas to visit.

the services sector, particularly in information tech-

It’s a bright future indeed.—(MAS)

work in progress: how pains of the next few years will benefit pinoys in the long run Lines 1 and 2, the NAIA Elevated Express-

In the same manner that rosy economic

ment likewise earmarked Php565 million

way, the EDSA-Taft Flyover, the McKinley

prospects were tempered by rapid popula-

to upgrade seven major provincial ports,

Ramp at the BGC and the Gil Puyat-Pasay

tion growth and urbanization, the World

including the development of the roll-on,

Road Underpass in Makati.

Bank described the country’s overall state of

roll-off system that can help improve trade

infrastructure as a “key impediment to the

of agriculture products.

When these projects begin construction, one could only imagine the traffic

Philippines’ economic competitiveness.”

Tourist traffic has multiplied in the past

it will bring to the city. But the Philip-

With the connector road, cargo trucks

pines will need to sustain its g rowth

heading to either North or South Luzon no

with key infrastructure like roads, bridg-

longer need to pass through city roads to

The government prioritized the over-

es, and ports that must be built as soon

the expressways, which would help decon-

haul of the country’s premier airport, en-

as possible.

years, providing another revenue stream for our economy.

gest the busy streets of Manila. That said,

listing the architectural firm of LV Locsin to

The government prides itself with man-

the city government of Manila could prob-

lead the design. Locsin, the national artist

aging to turnaround the economy, as the

ably do away with its much-talked-about

for architecture, designed Terminal 1 of

country’s gross domestic product rose to

truck ban that added pressure to the coun-

NAIA, named after the assassinated Sena-

7.2 percent in 2013. Taking into account the

try’s main gateway for domestic and inter-

tor Benigno Aquino, Jr.

growth in 2012, (where GDP increased to

national shipping.

Government officials then encourage

6.8 percent), the Philippines posted what

Speaking of cargo, the two main ports

people, that in spite the traffic these devel-

Bloomberg described to be “the fastest

in Manila have seen the steady increase of

opments may bring in the next three years,

two-year pace since 1954-1955,” during the

cargo entering its shores, a good indicator

these rewards will be worth the troubles of

post-War reconstruction.

of booming economic activity. The govern-

today. —(MM)

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INNOVATION

EMBRACING CHANGE is only the first step to achieving greater goals. We communicate challenges, collaborations, and concepts that constantly pave the road towards higher aspirations, technological breakthroughs, and iconic innovations.

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I N N O VAT I O N S

Rising above the benchmark: ALVEO CORPORATE CENTER

Alveo celebrates iconic design with its new signature headquarters.

fter more than a decade in the real estate indus-

The ALVEO Corporate Center is definitely as innova-

try, Alveo Land celebrates another benchmark

tive as it is timeless in form. “We wanted to see an iconic

with its new headquarters in Bonifacio Global

building within the Bonifacio Global City area. Very few

City, Taguig.

developers value good design and Alveo is taking steps

The ALVEO Corporate Center’s overall concept and ar-

to achieve that. In order to show people that if you really

chitecture was designed in collaboration with Asuncion

want to innovate the way people see things, you have to

–Berenguer Inc.

make it happen.”

Principal architect Isabel Berenguer Asuncion explains the concept behind Alveo Land’s future home as a symbol of growth, represented by the concept of grass because of its quick transition through time. “Being the company that it is, we wanted something different for Alveo. There was even an opportunity to do a three-level showroom, which we thought was a unique take towards a local audience.” The entire building clearly reflects Alveo’s innovative

Asuncion – Berenguer, Inc. offer their advice on essential elements that create a well designed space: What are the essential elements to making good working environments? • Start off with good architecture. From proportions to ceiling heights and vantage points, it’s only when you have a good space that you can start something. It’s not only planning the

spirit. The headquarters’ exterior was designed to con-

proper layout, but it’s necessary to visualize what it

trast with other structures by adding depth to the planes,

feels like as you walk into the room.

and multiple glass windows make it more open. “If you look at the building, all three sides are covered with windows to have sufficient natural light and to create a visual connection to the surroundings. From the ceilings to the hallways –everything is dynamic.” The lighting, the area, the space —ALVEO Corporate Center gives off a natural sense of community and openness. This emphasizes how good design can change peoples’ work dynamics, as the open spaces provide a lot of motion going on inside and outside of the building. One also can’t help but notice how the elements merge the inside and the outside features. The low partitions within the offices are partly solid and partly still-glass, creating a sense of movement . The sixth and ninth floor have accessible roof decks that can act as an event venue. With glass walls and sliding doors, even the cafeteria stands as an alternative environment for people during breaks.

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• Rid of things you don’t need Create a space with essentials you need at home.

• Note air and light These are very subjective elements but they can make a big difference to the room.

What constitutes as a good investment in terms of spaces? • Buy materials that suit your lifestyle Create options that could suit your home, and be sure of the quality of materials you add to your space.

• Prioritize quality Materials for your space A lot of developers offer attractive elements and it gets people so distracted that they tend to overlook the long–term maintenance and the relation it has to their personalities.

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Alveo Land has been recognized over the years as a forward-thinking company, making it one of the leading developers in the country. Extending the commitment to promote innovation, Lifescapes by Alveo BGC in the company’s headquarters was conceived as a grand platform to showcase various facets of creativity, ingenuity and unique living ideas. This then presents an extraordinarily immersive experience with its three-floor ceiling height space, dynamic customer lounges, multiple scale model displays, and a creatively inspiring model unit showcase.

• INTERACTIVE DIGITAL DISPLAY This showcases audio-visual presentations of various Alveo projects, including special Ipad stations for clients to try using the Alveo Mobile app.

• MULTIPLE SCALE MODELS Various project scale models take centerstage, with the district scale model of BGC serving as the main highlight

• DESIGNER MODEL UNITS Featuring various sizes and design styles to represent the Alveo portfolio, Lifescapes by Alveo BGC currently features multiple models units for Portico and The Veranda at Arca South.

• BLUESKY THEATER This room is equipped with the latest technology, designed to give guests an elevated viewing experience.

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01 BGC DISTRICT SCALE MODEL | This towering scale model presents Alveo’s multiple developments within this burgeoning city. 02 THE RECEPTION | Guests are welcomed by an impressive branded wall design 03 GENERAL SHOWROOM AREA | With its three-floor ceiling height, the showroom is also an event venue to showcase the company’s developments

04 MODEL UNITS | Multiple model units are currently available for viewing

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I N N O VAT I O N S

ALVEO MOBILE APP: A Virtual Walk Through

Alveo Land takes on a new interactive approach by launching an app that will give clients a virtual walkthrough of their groundbreaking developments.

ver the decades, technology has grown to cov-

play to give users an overview in full detail. The naviga-

er a wide scale of functions, making everyday

tion feature also provides direct contact from the app to

life efficient and convenient. From the cre-

Alveo Land’s customer service through an appointment

ation of the first desktop, to connecting networks on a

The Alveo Mobile App is convenient as it is easy to

are now accessible through a simple tap, a click, and a

use. The app is programmed to still perform specific

shot on screen.

functions whether users are on or offline. This gives

As of today, the Philippines has grown to become

audiences quick and easy access to look through

one of Southeast Asia’s fastest growing markets for the

their options regardless of their current location

smartphone. Alveo Land now takes this as an opportu-

and network availability.

nity to stay true to its commitment to innovation by pioneering the Philippines’ first real estate app. The Alveo Mobile App presents an all-around per-

project logos that will automatically load the Alveo Corporate Video on the app, or even get a special prize for

ceptualized to give audiences and potential clients a

visiting a new showroom.

experience and cross–platform availability.

The app is the first of its kind in the country, and Asia’s second to introduce the Image Recognition technology.

The app is cast to be informative, modern and us-

The Alveo Mobile App is constantly evolving and up-

er-friendly. Its program is comprised of project info

to-date. It is your sure access to everything of anything

presented with virtual tours, photo galleries and video

you need to know about Alveo Land.

links designed in a minimalistic layout, making it eas-

Whether through high-rise developments, mixed-

ier for readers to scan through each Alveo project on

use communities, or mobile applications, Alveo

their mobile device.

Land continues its ongoing mission for our nation’s

One of the main features of the application is its navigation program. The screen showcases each project in a pedestal layout with facets such as floor plans, amenities, galleries and locations found within a single dis-

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Lastly, the program presents an Image Recognition feature allowing users to scan the Alveo logo and other

spective of Alveo’s dynamic portfolio. This was conpreview of current developments, with a unique user

and call function.

global scale, the wonders of technology and innovation

progress through innovation, with more to come in the anticipating future. Alveo mobile is available globally for both Android and iOS devices with free downloads. — (AH)

From food reviews to transportation services, here are other innovative apps worth trying:

Waze (navigation) This is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest community-based traffic and navigation apps for smartphones. Location based, it has real-time maps and traffic jam updates to keep you on track. With this, it can efficiently take you towards your destination by submitting your current location and finding the best route to drive through.

Zomato (food) Wondering where you can try out good food? Discover great places to eat with Zomato. The app provides complete information, menus, work hours, and maps for foodies to find restaurants and see reviews and recommendations by other users.

Trusted advice (finance) The Trusted Advice App transforms personal finance with a simple, user-friendly interface. Its sophisticated portfolio-modeling tool allows wealth advisors to meet with their clients anywhere and present their analysis using visually rich charts and graphics.

Shazam (music) If you find yourself wondering what song keeps playing on the radio, try turning on Auto Shazam and it will scan the music and identify it for you. Keep your tunes updated without the inconvenience of searching

Download the Alveo Mobile app for free (available in both iOS and Android)

Alveo Mobile PlayStore Link (Android) www.play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ids.claymore.walkthrough

Alveo Mobile AppStore Link (iOS):

www.itunes.apple.com/ph/app/alveo-land/id808094977?mt=8

through the internet.

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Sofia, knocks on our door everyday to see my sister and Toby, our cat. They go on adventures everywhere and do everything together.

A Natural Setting for Neighborhood Community Living Alveo Landâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest development opens its doors in NUVALI South. Just 6 kilometers away from the Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road, a shining community is set to illuminate the neighborhood living experience anew. Offering premium lot cuts arranged into intimate clusters, strong family ties and long lasting friendships are cultivated within exclusive sanctuaries surrounded by expansive green spaces. Experience the warm embrace of a distinct community sharing one place of belongingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a family of homes.

(632) 848 5100 www.alveoland.com.ph

Visit our showroom at the NUVALI Evoliving Center Lumira HLURB License to Sell No. 029042 | Rufino Hermann S. Gutierrez PRC-REBL No. 0004771

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainable living begins with alternative choices. Alveo Land advocates sustainability as a pillar of enlightening communities on social and environmental responsibility. We highlight local creative enterprises that revolutionize homegrown commodities, making way for a cleaner, brighter, and more livable standards of living.

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SUS TA I NA BI L I T Y

DOMESTICITY: the art of creating homes From heart to home, creativity and local culture coincide, with the goal being a better and sustainable life for Filipino communities.

t’s enlightening to see that the current Filipino gen-

by establishing a handicrafts business that would con-

eration focuses on cultivating local traditions and

nect to audiences who are fond of decorating homes.

creativity into the competitive world of commerce. By

Crafting the business was a challenge at first. Al-

taking natural resources and crafting them into sustain-

though Mariel was fortunate to have resources through

able products, these rising local establishments serve a

her family’s farm in San Carlos, it was difficult to find the

cause to bring out the potential in every Filipino and pro-

right people who embodied the skill, discipline, and dedi-

vide better means of living for communities. “From heart

cation she had hoped for in Domesticity. For a region that

to home,” Domesticity initiates the art of introducing new

has grown its reputation and work ethics in the sugar

skills into the Negros farm industry by engaging farmers

mill industry, it was a difficult task to introduce Negrens-

and craftsmen into producing beautiful native pieces.

es to an entirely different field of production (especially

It was about a decade ago when Mariel San Agustin

since it involved working all-year round when they were

began to nurture her love for domestic products after

used to working only half the year). But as time passed,

landing her first job in the home and retail industry. She

Domesticity stemmed into a small but growing company

began her career as a store manager and was assigned

of promising and committed individuals who work dili-

to act as a merchandiser for local products a few years

gently in the pursuit of advocating local art and culture.

later. It was through this opportunity where she then dis-

Although Domesticity products are made of native mate-

covered the potential behind Filipino craftsmanship. At

rials, it is their philosophy to provide sustainable but chic

that time, people could not avail of these items because

home décor through modern and culturally adaptable

they were only available via export. Considering how ex-

designs. These were all conceptualized by Mariel’s trav-

ported products lacked consistent stability in the market

els, as she based varied cultures into her pieces.

today, companies began opening their doors towards the

“I wanted to adapt my lifestyle and taste in the prod-

local market. Mariel felt that after years of experience in

ucts by using Filipino indigenous materials. Although

the industry, she was ready to make her vision possible

most people draw inspiration from nature, I find that my ideas come from the places I’ve been to, the people I ob-

By taking natural resources and crafting them into sustainable products, these rising local establishments serve a cause to bring out the potential in every Filipino

serve, and the lifestyles they have.” — (AH)

Domesticity products are located within these stores: Tesoro’s, Make Room, Bungalow 300, and ANP. For orders or inquiries, kindly log on to www.mydomesticity.com

p h o t o g ra p hy DO M ESTI C IT Y

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01 Provence Chalkboard Basket 02 Marche food pedestal 03 Provence Wooden Cooking Spatula 04 Provece Wire Basket with Jute Sack Lining 05 Provence Utility Basket with Chalkboard Hangtag 06 March Cheese Slate Plate with Cheese Knives

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COMET:

SUS TA I NA BI L I T Y

GEARED SOLUTIONS FOR THE FUTURE Paving roads with an innovative drive.

n September 30, 2013, the Philippines introduced the

vided benefits as well as a maximum overtime of only

COMET (City Optimized Managed Electronic Trans-

up to 10 pm, to avoid possible accidents.

po) jeepney as a solution soon to circulate the roads

of Metro Manila.

A Vehicle of Change | The COMET is a combination

The story began two and a half years ago when Glob-

of connected solutions into one vehicle. On the contrary

al Electric Transportation (GET) Philippines connected

to the e-jeepneys circulating around Makati, the COM-

with an American company, Pangea Motors, and pre-

ET operates on lithium ion batteries which save up to 50

sented a proposal of developing an electronic taxi with

percent less energy, lasting at least five to seven years.

a route system platform. Upon presenting this to the

The COMET was built with side entrances and an el-

Department of Transportation and Communication

evated roof up to six feet with a built-in air suspension.

(DOTC), DOTC Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya approved

This makes getting in and out easier especially for the

of the idea but emphasized a need for a geared solution

elderly and the disabled. And even after serving its lifes-

that could resolve the jeepney problem. It was apparent

pan, the COMET batteries still contain 80 percent worth

that creating a utilized system for jeepneys can great-

of depletes available for use. In collaboration with Meral-

ly contribute towards resolving traffic congestion and

co, GET Philippines proposes to utilize this as grid stor-

commute drawbacks. Soon the idea opened a window

age to stabilize electric currents, and control the wasted

of opportunity to create a better change.

energy being dissipated during brownouts.

Changing the Way We Innovate | Jeepney drivers

tween SM North Edsa up to Monumento with a mini-

work sixteen hours a day the entire week by speeding

mum fare of Php20 through a Tap-In-Tap-Out system

through traffic and overtaking other drivers.

like the MRT (Metro Rail Transit). These e-cards will act

The COMET system involves routes that cross be-

GET Philippines then generated a system where routes can be taken collectively, while providing

as tickets, which can be availed at the terminals through the predestined routes.

jeepney drivers with equal compensation (including

Since the launch, over 300 private investors have

bonuses) if the route is followed. GET Philippines even

availed the COMET. In fact, Pasang Masda, the country’s

went the extra mile by partnering with Gawad Kalinga,

leading transportation association, has established an

who became responsible for the value formation. COM-

agreement through their president, Obet Martin. Pur-

ET drivers will undergo a process of skills training that

chasing 10,000 COMET units from GET, they are set to

will certify their qualifications to drive on top of acquir-

replace the existing passenger jeepneys in the next three

ing their licenses. Upon employment, they will be pro-

years, targeting specific routes in Metro Manila.

For people to acclimatize to the new technology, conductors will carry devices that will load cards for first time passengers. It can be conveniently reloaded at terminals or a nearby sari-sari store.

From conceptualization to the design, the COMET will be a driving force to encourage a system of order, profitable growth, and an eco-friendly environment. — (AH)

For price details and steps to own a COMET, you may coordinate with GET Philippines’ sales department by calling (03) 952-6484 or by sending an email inquiry to getintouch@getevee.com.

p h o t o g ra p hy c h r i s yu h i c o

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COMET FACTS

SM NORTH EDSA TERMINAL Road 3

Puregold Mindanao Ave.

Congressional Ave cor. Tandang Sora

Circle C / Cherry Fooderama

• Designed for convenience, the COMET is six feet high with entryways at the sides for a hassle free ingress and egress.

Congressional Ave. cor. Visayas ave. Tierra Verde

Tierra Pura Mira Nilla Subdivision Talipapa Talipapa Capitol Hills Drive Capitol Hills Drive Magsaysay Ave/ U.P. GT-Toyota Gate

MWSS (Maynilad Water)

Quirino Ave. / U.P. Narra Gate

Balara Jeepney Station / LWUA

J. Escaler St. / Elizabeth Hall Bldg.

• The vehicle is powered by lithium ion batteries that last up to five to seven years compared to lead acid batteries that sustain for only a year.

NOTRH BOUND

SOUTH BOUND

Road 16

Congressional Ave cor. Visayas

UP Prefessors Subdivision

• In 2013, the first prototype COMET was completed at Carmona, Cavite in six months.

• The COMET follows a Tap–In–Tap–Out system that allows passengers to have an electronic and reloadable card like the Metro Rail Transit. • Your card is your insurance. In case of any untoward accident, your personal card will keep you covered. • A CCTV is installed within the vehicle to monitor for criminal activity. • The vehicle acts with an onward telemetry to warn drivers if there are vehicle dysfunctions.

UP towncenter Miriam College

Loyola Heights Brgy. Hall / Regis Bldg.

Ateneo Gate Overpass

Ateneo Gate 2 Overpass

LRT KATIPUNAN / KATIPUNAN TERMINAL

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WOVEN DREAMS: T’NALAK FABRIC charms artist with its magic

There are times when the fabric of life unfolds in the most unexpected way. When we are more conscious of it, we share a gift of inspiration to the people who come into our lives.

s an artist, Krizia Lucero was always searching

and history. Without a form of writing, the T’nalak fab-

for the right tools: a good, well-designed travel

ric serves as literature—an artful way of record-keeping

sketchbook with wonderfully thick, high-quality

where dreams, beliefs, religion, and important milestones

paper. Boundfor, she describes, was her journey to finding

are told in the making of the weave. It is even said that the

a solution for her own personal problem.

designs of a T’nalak fabric come from the dreams of the

After working on several covers with GKonomics,

T’boli women who weave it.

she realized that the direction Boundfor was head-

“I grew up in Surallah, South Cotabato. It’s the town

ing to pointed back to her community with the T’nal-

before Lake Sebu where the T’boli tribe weaves the T’nal-

ak covered sketchbooks.

ak; I made it my mission to showcase the beauty and relevance of our indigenous culture to the young generation,”

Fabric of Life | Boundfor are handbound sketchbooks

says Krizia.

with different covers ranging from simple textiles to T’nalak fabrics. T’nalak is the traditional tapestry of the T’boli tribes made from abaca fibers. The material is naturally dyed with bark, roots, and leaves of the plants, which serve as the colorant. The weaving of the fabric is from the T’boli heritage

The weaving of the fabric is T’boli heritage and holds a special and prominent place in their culture and history.

and holds a special and prominent place in their culture

photography Chris Yuhico

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Uncertain path | Like every artist who turned “ama-

ate more products that will show the culture, creativity,

teur entrepreneur,” she had no business plan to begin with.

diversity and the greatness of Mindanao and its people,”

Some people couldn’t understand what she was creat-

she says.

ing, which made her move back to Cotabato. There was

“I think deep down in every Filipino, there’s this hunger

more access to familial support, but limited supplies for

to know who we really are as a people,” says Krizia. “Seeing

her craft. “First, I needed the funds to explore and experi-

who we are, our heritage, and our culture—the beauty of

ment. Thank God my mother accepted me back home,”

our diversity and the complexity of our society would allow us to move forward and push through with our future.”

Guided by passion | “I always write my thoughts,” she

Of course, there are mavericks in the world of business

says about her creativity. “I talk to people, watch videos

whose energy she tries to channel. “Richard Branson, Ma-

and travel. Of course, I involve God in all my dreams.” Kri-

rie Forleo, and some other creative entrepreneurs,” she

zia says that amazing things are happening to Boundfor

muses. Locally, she looks up to the creators of the Human

now, including a definite expansion of the product line and

Nature brand and other Philippine–made companies who

maybe a rebranding in the future.

made it in the international scene. “They have world-class

“We are committed to engaging GK Sitio T’boli in Banga

and authentically proud local products that showcase the

– the weavers and craftsmen South Cotabato. I plan to cre-

beauty and wonders of our people. I like them because they break the mold on how an entrepreneur should

Seeing who we are as a people, our heritage, and our culture—the beauty of our diversity and the complexity of our society, would allow us to move forward and push through with our future.

look and act like. They are bold, creative, and have the heart for people.” — (KG)

Boundfor products are available in the GKonomics Design Lab and Showroom at Brgy. Pinagsama, Taguig. They can also be viewed online at www.facebook.com/Boundfor.

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Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;nalak is the traditional tapestry of the Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;boli tribe made from Abaca leaves. The weaving of the fabrics not only represent Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;boli heritage but a tradition that has been passed on from generation to generation in Filipino history.

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SUS TA I NA BI L I T Y

COCONELAS: BEAUTIFUL COLLECTIVE CREATIVITY

There are no limits to what the human brain can imagine, and what the spirit can accomplish.

heer determination propelled a group of college

tions, was a partner in strategy. Teachers, branding

students in coming up with a solution to an inces-

experts, investors, and the Gawad Kalinga community

sant social problem—which is perhaps, one of the

helped make Coconelas a reality.

best ideas to come out of the local fashion industry. It’s called Coconelas—shoes made from coconut coir.

United they stand | Learning to set egos aside and

Billie Dumaliang, a senior college student from a

capitalizing on their strengths turned this young group

top university, is one of the members of the group. The

into serious entrepreneurs who were ready to make a

class, she says, was challenged to introduce a product

difference in the community.

that responded to a social problem.

Coconelas is a leg itimate business that star t-

“We found out that coconut coir, the fiber from the

ed in the university—just like many trend-setting

coconut husk, is the largest agricultural waste in the

enterprises today. Everyone knew their roles—mar-

Philippines. Most of the fiber from our 15 billion coconut

keting and sales, product design and public relations,

produce each year go to waste; contributing to added

human resources (especially since a big part of their

storage cost for farmers, and greenhouse gases when

business deals with communities), finance, operations

burned,” she explains.

and production.

Guided by t he t rash-to-t reasure model, t hey matched the raw material to the best possible applica-

Billie says it with much certainty, “We’re a team made for each other.”

tion they could imagine, and one that they themselves

“The main challenge now is keeping the commit-

were interested in—fashion and shoes, of course. It rep-

ment for Coconelas while we also pursue our individ-

resented their collective and firm stand to significantly

ual professional aspirations. We need to find a good

reduce waste and provide livelihood to communities.

work routine, keep it dynamic, and enable Coconelas

“Our first prototype was a flip-flop with a bare coco-

to grow.”

nut coir mat as its base,” she says. After many attempts, they decided to push through with closed footwear.

Planet, people, society | It’s beautiful to see young people working together and using their creativity for a

Learning from experts | Success doesn’t come easy, so they learned from the people who are experts in design and business. The group consulted with experienced shoemakers in Marikina, as well as design consultants in the Philippine Design Center.

purpose larger than what they can see for the moment. “When people hear Coconelas, we want them to think of the Philippines,” states Billie. “We source our coconut coir from Pilipinas Eco Fiber, another social enterprise that works directly with farm-

After winning in the 2013 Filipino Youth Innovation,

ers in Laguna and Quezon. This means that we also re-

they proceeded to incorporate the business plan into

place the traditional foam insoles used in regular foot-

their senior year academic requirements.

wear with one that is all-natural, all organic,” she adds.

McKinsey & Co., trusted advisor and counselor to

They engaged Gawad Kalinga Christ the King as their

some of the world’s influential business and institu-

pilot community in the production of the shoes. Pres-

p h o t o g ra p hy Jar C o n c e n g c o

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ently, the shoes are made in Marikina until they can

“We actively inspire young people to pursue entrepre-

bring it to the community. Timelines for these are in

neurship by speaking and engaging in relevant events.

the near future.

Ultimately, Coconelas is about inspiring Filipinos to take

“We agree upon a specific quantity of output for com-

a step towards social change, with the belief that no mat-

pensation that they get as a community,” she explains.

ter how young you are, or how big or small the action is,

“By being a leader for responsible fashion, we aim to en-

you can make a difference.” — (KG)

courage Philippine society to choose responsibly – starting with footwear.” Their ability to set aside personal interests and tap into this creative force can help heal a community.

They ship nationwide via cash deposit or meet-ups with Metro Manila. Interested buyers can order via VIBER 0917 848 0319 or log on to their catalogue at http://on.fb.me.1eDjQqe.

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Jacinto & lirio: Scribbles on hyacinth

How an invasive weed became an unexpected raw material for a thriving social enterprise.

hat began as a curious thesis proposal is

reaching out to other community cooperatives in Lagu-

now a full-fledged social enterprise.

na, Rizal, and Pasig.

A relative of one of their thesis partners,

In 2010, JACINTO & LIRIO, Spanish for hyacinth and

Noreen Bautista (who now sits as the company’s board

lily, was born. As the retail part of Eco Ingenuity han-

member), first recommended water hyacinth—an in-

dling corporate gifts and souvenirs, social livelihood

vasive aquatic weed that typically breeds in contami-

communities benefit by the bulk orders and also further

nated bodies of water in temperate climates. It clogs the

improve on their skills in crafting and quality control:

infested water and causes floods. It changes its host’s chemistry, which affects the living matters under-

Designs for Social EntrepreneurshiP | The

neath. It is also an infamous breeding ground for mos-

sponsored communities start by harvesting the water

quitoes and other insects.

hyacinth followed by cleaning, drying, and carefully

There were some concrete actions taken in order to

scraping the fibers from the opened stalks, weaving the

halt the fast infiltration of these pesky plants. For in-

sheets to make it appear like genuine leather and coat-

stance, The Department of Science and Technology

ings to prevent mold.

(DOST) developed technologies to use water hyacinth

Most of their employees are young or stay-at-home

as a natural resource in handicrafts and furniture. It’s

mothers and unemployed women. It’s befitting that the

durable, water-resistant, and has a leather-like feel

social enterprise is a member of Girltank, a global commu-

and quality. They are also producing biogas, animal

nity of enterprising women doing work for social change.

feeds, and geotextiles that thwart soil erosion from

Ms. Mariposa recalls, “At first we partnered with the renowned Filipino designer Cora Jacob of the Cora Cares

the same plant.

Foundation, the pioneer in indigenous handbag and Making Indigenous Sexy | There’s already an ex-

fashion accessory industry and San Fernando Pampan-

isting livelihood program for the urban poor sponsored

ga Community Association. We are now on the lookout

by the local government. The fishermen knew how to

for fresh, upcoming designers because we want to give

make nets, and some were manufacturing textiles out

them a platform.

of them. But the products were sorely lacking in pro-

Currently they have refillable journals, planners,

motion and overall marketing. CEO and Director for

passport holders, and bags. The group is doing extensive

Product Development and Design Anne Krystle Maripo-

research on creating more merchandises and incorpo-

sa puts it. “We wanted to give it an edge by improving

rating new elements and designs. Ms. Mariposa adds,

the quality of design and making it more appealing to

“We do this by laser etching and embroidery. Hopefully,

the consumers.”

you will soon see this in our products. We want to incor-

The budding entrepreneurs joined the BiD Challenge in 2009 and won the Php350,000 grand prize, defeating

porate other materials to mix with water hyacinth and make our products even more exciting.” — (LJ)

33 other contenders. The group agreed to invest the prize money to a community in Pampanga, later on

For orders and inquiries, log on to jacintoandlirio.com

photography Jar concengco

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Composing Hyacinth Journals Jacinto & Lirio’s step by step process in producing sustainable leather journals: Step 1: Collect, clean, and classify • Every person should be able to gather at least two thousand hyacinth stalks within the day. After gathering these, the heads are removed and the stalks are dipped in water. Each stalk is classified according to size and width, and then later tied unto one bundle, which is equivalent to at least twenty-five stalks. • Note: The number of stalks needed for a single journal will depend on its size. One sheet would amount to twenty to twenty-five stalks. Sometimes, one sheet could produce two to four medium journals or six to eight mini journals. Step 2: Drying the bundles • The bundles will take about ten days to dry. They are either hung or dried on the floor for three to five days until it turns brown. Step 3: Scraping off the fibers • Knives are used to scrape off the fibers to even the sheets. Any excess will be recycled for producing journals. Step 4: Keeping it together • In order to keep them together, the workers simply use glue and a toothbrush to connect to the fabric. The stalks used should be at least one and a half wide base. Step 5: Ironing it out • It takes about thirty seconds to a minute to flatten one sheet. Step 6: Coating • To prevent the sheets from decaying, each sheet is coated with anti-mold solution. Step 7: Quality check • Aside from the clean and even sewing, each sheet should be consistently flat and continuous. Lastly, to embellish the journal, leather straps are sewn on for a final touch.

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BAYANI BREW:

SUS TA I NA BI L I T Y

BREWING FOR THE MILENNIAL HEROES Here’s a homegrown brew that promotes national pride.

t’s been recognized that our hidden local reserves are

The BPA-free bottle is made from 100 percent recycla-

densely rich, but still yet to be uncovered and utilized

ble PET (polyethylene). Even the label they use is from

to their maximum potential.

fully recyclable stone paper.

BREWING SAVES THE DAY! | The Gawad Kalinga

harvested indigenous ingredients. Within 24 hours of

Enchanted Farm pilot site situated in Angat, Bu-

harvesting, these are brewed and bottled. This is why it

lacan was set up in 2010 as a village university for

has a limited shelf life—Kick-ass Lemongrass, brewed

social enterprise development. It was also a so-

from tanglad and pandan with a hint of calamansi is

“Bayani Brew beverages are both made from freshly

cial tourism destination that aspires to bring the

good for three months, while BB Purple Leaf has a thir-

market to the farm, promoting sustainability and

ty-day shelf life.

economic empowerment.

“Bayani Brew Purple Leaf is slightly more tedious to

One afternoon, Tita Linda, one of the local nanays,

produce. Only the purple leaves of sweet potatoes are

served a scalding hot infusion of traditional and highly

handpicked, and once you add an extra dose of calamansi,

nutritious indigenous leaves. GK founder, Tony Meloto,

it turns shockingly bright electric pink. That’s how it gets

had a quick flash of insight, “Why not serve it ice-cold?!”

its natural color, which people tend to mistake as artifi-

Thus, the birth of Bayani Brew

cial. But it’s not. ”

Bayani Brew then became their start-up agri-based

Sometime soon, they plan to offer a concentrated ver-

social enterprise. This supports local sources and organ-

sion (so as to keep the all-natural benefits of brewing in-

ic farming, even if it means purchasing higher than the

tact), low calorie variants, and perhaps introduce addi-

regular market price.

tional premium brands to their future line-up.

Controversy hounded the name itself. It seemed like

Atty. Alvarez further shares, “We provide local

sacrilege to use the word bayani but as Atty. Alvarez ex-

farming with planting materials and/or zero percent

plains, “It’s not to denote an in-your-face hero or hero’s

micro-financing, interest-free loans for implements,

drink, but more to stand for ‘one who loves his country.’

shouldering maintenance of crops and subsidizing un-

And we believe that there are just so many of us who do.

foreseen costs. We also award Bayani College Scholar-

Bayani Brew wants to be known not just for its beverag-

ships 1% of gross sales, with a particular preference for

es, but for brewing a new breed of Filipinos crazy in love

Agri-business courses to our heroic farmers’ children

with our country.

and The Brew Crew. This helps send farmers’ kids to

It’s also for honoring the unsung heroes, our person-

school ages 10-16 from 2% of our gross sales. Allocating

al bayanis, and the bayanihan effort of local talent, farm-

30% shares of the enterprise to Gawad Kalinga Enchant-

ers, and social entrepreneurs who bring this once crazy

ed Farm helps spur the vision-mission of creating sus-

idea to the market.

tainable countryside communities all over the country.

The brand strictly adheres to being all-natural. “We

The value of these shares may grow significantly in the

opted not to use strong chemicals like sodium benzo-

coming years and can be used to fund more community

ate since we don’t want to compromise the natural and

development projects.”

healthy integrity of Bayani Brew,” he says.

True to its brand, Bayani Brew makes us proud. — (LJ)

p h o t o g ra p hy Jar C o n c e n g c o

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P R O J E C T: F O C U S

WESTBOROUGH: Open opportunities

Alveo Land and Cathay Land venture to give a refreshed take on the retail lifestyle—an open opportunity for growth and investment.

The genius of the great cities of the world—and indeed, of any great community—is the solid planning behind them. When done well, urban masterplanning is natural and seamless: it doesn’t call attention to itself, but its importance is proven when the properties stand the test of time. Masterplanning makes all the difference, and we see the results in places like BGC, and even in the Makati CBD. While Makati withstands the tests of time and continues

destination that is both world-class and uniquely local.

to set the high benchmark for progress, BGC is closely

More importantly, it complements the rest of the de-

in-tow as the country’s fastest-rising CBD. Through all

velopments in the area by providing lifestyle essentials

these developments, Ayala Land has led the way in cre-

in a relaxed suburban setting. Westborough is set to

ating cityscapes that make a meaningful impact.

become extensions of the surrounding communities’

Alveo Land, Ayala Land’s benchmark for innovation,

amenities as well as the industrial parks in the area. It be-

and Cathay Land, a leading property developer in the

comes a park venue close to home and the community,

south, have partnered to venture into wider horizons.

providing their needs and beyond.

Their newly forged partnership was made with the ob-

With thousands of families and hundreds of business-

jective of crafting a thoughtfully planned park town

es immediately surrounding the 32-hectare expanse of

center south of Metro Manila with Westborough. Draw-

the development, Westborough is sure to benefit from

ing on the considerable experience and portfolio of

a ready market, complementing the nearby industrial,

these two companies, this mix of retail and commercial

commercial, and retail centers in the Sta. Rosa – Silang

establishments is designed to deliver lifestyle essentials

growth corridor area.

to the surrounding thriving communities and businesses—a solid prospect for investors.

As a masterplanned development put together by two stalwarts of the industry, Westborough is set to become a definitive presence in the south, especial-

Integral to the community

ly as the area is expected to sustain its growth over

Envisioned to serve the upscale communities and thriv-

the years with development and capital pouring into

ing business parks nearby, Westborough aims to be a

this high-growth corridor.

Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perspectIve 01 site development 02 city center

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SUS TA I NA BI L I T Y

THE NEXT GKONOMIST: Inspiring SOcial Entrepreneurship

Aiming to engage students in social entrepreneurship, Be the Next Gkonomist is a competition that challenges and inspires young entrepreneurs to innovate and produce high quality Filipino-made products and services that engage Gawad Kalinga communities. Here we present the 11 finalists:

Firina’s Jackfruit Seeds | Firina’s Jackfruit

Mel’s Kitchen | With experience in cooking

Be Hearty redefines the f lour industry by in-

Seeds adds a little variety compared to your av-

competitions and an acquired knack for reinvent-

troducing an unexplored staple—banana flour.

erage everyday junk food. Rich in protein, vita-

ing the Filipino cuisine, three young entrepreneurs

From the ground up, Be Hearty has cultivated

min A and other nutrients, it was an opportunity

from De La Salle University Manila aspired to cook

and tested their own method for coming up

for Firina to take these seeds and convert them

up a unique menu, introducing Filipino favorites

with a process of supplying flour for our coun-

into healthy snacks that offer high dietary value.

through internationally accustomed dishes. From

try without being reliant on imported wheat.

Peeled, roasted, and seasoned with all natural in-

adobo burgers to sisig tacos, Mel’s Kitchen aims to

Gluten–free and a nutritious alternative com-

gredients, Firina adds more value to the jackfruit

encourage both local and international food lovers

pared to regular wheat, it caters to the needs of

processing chain and improves livelihoods for

to embrace our cultural taste and discover the pos-

today’s health-conscious Filipino and answers

both farmers and processors alike.

sibilities of Filipino gastronomy.

Be Hearty | With a new, innovative product,

the oversupply of bananas in our country.

Habi Inc. | Piña fibers have been one

Sexy Salads | Eating healthy is

of the oldest materials used in appar-

easier said than done. Sexy Sal-

els since the Spanish era. Habi Inc.

ads finds ways to trim your ex-

takes this fine delicate material and

tra pounds, as well as cutting the

fabricates them into a bag line that

cost. With fresh organic produce

will create a means of promoting our

straight from Gawad Kalinga farms,

country’s heritage. Moreover, Habi

Sexy Salads provides ready–to–eat

Inc. conceived this line as a means

greens perfectly presented and

to reach out to communities, provid-

stored for your week’s lunch.

ing a venue to experience fair living and cultivating their skills for their collective benefit.

i l l us t ra t i o n s L e o A n g e l o V i l l av i c e n c i o

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STEEN Enterprise | Rain or shine, STEEN

Nectar Lab | Nectar Lab taps onto their creative

Avant Carve | Avant Carve or The Woodshoppe

Enterprise gives education a sustainable and

juices to become not only a company that encourages

as it was previously called began as an initial in-

stylish approach. This young innovative company

healthy lifestyles, but to develop rural communities

vestment to create a unique and genuine business

offers fashionable and high quality waterproof

that outsource their produce through Gawad Kalin-

set to uplift Philippine culture and livelihood. The

backpacks mater ialized by abaca and jute

ga’s Enchanted Farm. Nectar Lab delivers all-natural

concept was molded from the process of manufac-

materials. Manufactured from a GK community in

cold-pressed fruit and vegetable fruit juices tailored

turing diamond jewelry, but as luxurious as dia-

Antipolo, STEEN commits 10 percent of the profits

to fit your body’s specific needs without sugar or pre-

monds can be, Avant Carve sought the opportunity

to “Giving for a Living Project” which provides

servatives added. The produce is cultivated through

of providing accessories in a socially responsible

school necessities for public school students.

organic farming techniques that cancel the use of

fashion. With the use of wood scraps, skilled Filipi-

Through this, STEEN builds a bridge between

chemical fertilizers and pesticides. From detoxifi-

no craftsmen carve these pieces into a modern and

sustainability and social responsibility by assisting

ers, supplements, to solo orders, Nectar Lab strives

exquisite collection that encourages a more sus-

communities and advocating a better tomorrow

to change the landscape of health and wellness

tainable livelihood and eco-fashionable culture.

for Filipino education.

in the Philippines.

Uniquecorn | Envisioned to become an icon

Ayuda | Ayuda was conceptualized to solve the

Akaba | Originally known as Naimbag during the

of leadership and innovation, Uniquecorn serves

delay of relief goods and the impracticality of un-

competition, Akaba’s concept of entrepreneurship

their purpose by taking corn, the second leading

healthy and preservative-induced products that

intertwines comfort, culture and social respon-

Philippine product, and fabricating its husks into

require resources such as electricity and water.

sibility. From knapsacks, satchels and carry ons,

a feasible material for making laptop sleeves. This

Ayuda aims to produce food bars packed and pro-

the company fabricates three-in-one durable bags

will pave its way as a renewable source with better

duced within our very own local farms to provide

with inabel, an artisan piece involving native tex-

quality compared to synthetic materials that is

supportable levels of sustainability “that enables

tiles handwoven by the indigenous Ilocanos. Akaba

difficult to duplicate. Through this, Uniquecorn

Filipinos to help fellow Filipinos”.

partners with Gawad Kalinga Talingaan to provide

provides the benefits between aesthetics and

a source of additional income for the beneficiaries’

functionality, feasibility and social responsibility

families. Purely Filipino, these bags introduce a

for consumers and Gawad Kalinga communities.

weave between practicality and style that socially contribute not only to communities but towards preserving a proud Ilocano tradition. — (AH)

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FOCUS

Creativity meets commerce and commodity. Introducing projects, possibilities, and local establishments that cater towards progressive tastes in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modern industry. We highlight areas of opportunities that grow within collective venues, especially artisanal practices and bustling enclaves.

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P R O J E C T: F O C U S

PORTICO: COURTYARD LIVING IN THE CITY

Alveo pioneers courtyard living at the Ortigas CBD with Portico, a charming enclave tucked within the bustling metropolis.

La dolce far niente. The sweetness of doing nothing. This phrase brings to mind a quaint scenery of sweeping cobblestone courtyards bathed in warm sunlight, and people ambling about in al-fresco cafés.

that aims to delight in the carefree, creative, and vibrant

Imagine this sense of ease made possible amidst the

energy of its residents. The city celebrates this quality

hubbub of a metropolitan sprawl.

by providing a space where lifestyle, business, and lei-

Ortigas Central Business District, the lively and bus-

sure are set at an easygoing pace, in contrast to the hus-

tling epicenter in Manila East, is a vital hub for new busi-

tle outside of its confines in the concrete jungle nearby.

nesses, outgoing families, and individuals who aspire to

Local brands are fueled by the global Filipino’s en-

be surrounded by a diverse entrepreneurial community.

trepreneurial drive, creativity, and resourcefulness.

The city’s strategic location sets itself apart as a

As Alveo’s first offering in Ortigas, Portico aspires to

unique district in almost all aspects. Intersecting prac-

provide access to one-of-a-kind specialty businesses,

tically on both the Northern and Southern halves of

quality-driven products and services that broaden pos-

the city, Ortigas is a balance between the hectic pace

sibilities for a growing community.

of Makati and Taguig, and the productive yet laid

The first residential tower to be launched, The Sand-

back energy of Quezon City. It is a gateway to Rizal

stone, will offer a total of 440 residential units in one-

and Pasig City to the East, and to some of the me-

two- and three-bedroom configurations. Choicest

tropolis’ commuting working class. The city’s conve-

prime offerings include penthouse and ground level

nience is a luxury that emphasizes its value as a highly

courtyard villa units.

networked destination.

Spacious penthouse lofts and flats afford homeown-

Ortigas’ diversity is packed in a relatively small area:

ers with picturesque vistas ranging from cityscapes, the

a university campus, a business center with its own

view of the mountains and the renowned Manila sun-

residential enclaves, and open recreational spaces for

set. At the ground level courtyard villas, porticos or pri-

promenading in the urbane city life.

vate entryways lead to numerous urban courtyards by way of cobblestone pavements, breezy greenways and

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A Novel Community

landscaped footpaths. Well-appointed areas will house

Ortigas may be enveloped by skyscrapers, but it never

the amenities, including pools, a fitness center, play ar-

fails to maintain its charming appeal. It is a community

eas and a clubhouse, among others. — (NC)

Artist’s Perspective

01 The Aerial View of Portico 02 The Sandstone at Portico

03 The Courtyards at Portico

04 - 05 Model Units at The Alveo HQ

Trivia and tips about Ortigas: The Asian Development Bank, a regional development bank is headquartered at Ortigas Center’s ADB Avenue 02

The business district’s boundaries are shared by three different cities, with its northern side being part of Quezon City, its west side being part of Mandaluyong and its east side being part of Pasig. Barangay San Antonio in Ortigas’ East Side is noted as the second largest single income-generated government unit in the country, after Barangay San Lorenzo in Makati. Ortigas Center houses one of the two trading floors of the Philippine Stock Exchange, one of the oldest stock exchanges in Southeast Asia, having been operational since the late 1920s. Ortigas Center is home an important cultural and historical landmark, the Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace which was made to commemorate the People Power Revolution.

The growth of the residential establishments and developments in the Ortigas district is projected to contribute 50 percent of its income in 10-15 years. Currently, much of Ortigas Center’s income is generated by retail.

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LIFESCAPES by Alveo (Portico) Capt. Henry P. Javier Street, Oranbo, Pasig City comMtalk

FOCUS

Salcedo Village: The Perks of parkside living

Experiencing Makati’s diverse city life may never be quite complete without discovering its quiet and vibrant sense of community.

akati may be known for all its fast-paced

Together w ith Mark Medina, Per iquet, Lopa, and

hustle and bustle, but Salcedo village offers

Lichauco toured around different markets to invite

a quaint side to living within the vibrant dis-

merchants. Their early effor ts resulted in some

trict. Here, people enjoy the recreational scenery filled

crave-worthy dishes prepared by skilled hands from

with backdrops of luscious parks and quiet cafés.

Tita Ope, Inengs, La Cuisine Francaise, to name a few.

Escala Salcedo settles within the city’s park front ad-

Whether fried, boiled, stewed, baked or tossed,

dress; celebrating events and the romantic city life just

quality local and international fares come in sundry,

parkside living a worthwhile experience.

fusion creations from pieces of traditional elements

a stone’s throw away. These are the perks that make

bold flavors. It’s a place for the adventurous, offering that are both exciting and delicious.

Salcedo Market: Whetting Appetites for a

“We are the only market that exists to serve. We do

Decade | Barangay Bel-Air demonstrates how to set up

not profit from the rental contributions. We are the

a proper weekly bazaar. Honoring food and discovering

first market to go green. All our vendors are required

the obscure areas of the palette are certainly foolproof

to use reusable or biodegradable packaging and sec-

methods for nabbing the urban nomad.

ondary packaging for their goods,” Lichauco explains.

Since 2004, the objective was to unite the residents of Barangay Bel-Air and provide a venue for small businesses with mouth-watering eats. The transformation of a parking lot into a connoisseur’s paradise did not just happen on its own. The

As its tenth anniversary approaches, the market only gets bigger and better. A place for the selective and the uncomplicated, the Salcedo Market will eventually make its way to your heart, through your stomach. — (MDV)

initiative was originally planned by Lisa Periquet and Trickie Lopa who were then residents of Salcedo Village. From a modest number of 28, the market now harbors more than 150 vendors inside Jaime Velasquez Park. Tricia Lichauco, Barangay Bel-Air’s Chief of Staff, currently super vises the weekly event along with two other members; Des Torres and Mia Villanueva.

p hot o g ra p hy b o n n apar t g a l e n g & n o n i to cabr e ra

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Art in the Park 2014 Participants |

AAP-UST CFAD JC, Aimless, Altro

Mondo Gallery, Ang I.n.K., Art Informal, Art Lab, Art Verite Gallery, Art Wednesday, ART4S Gallery, Avellana Art Gallery, Blanc, Boston Art Gallery, CANVAS, Cevio Art Haus, DLSU College of St. Benilde, Espasyo Siningdikato, Famous Artists, FEATI University School of Fine Arts, FEU Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts, Finale Art File, Galeria de las Islas, Galerie Artes, Galerie Astra, Gallery Frames, Gallery Orange, Kanto Artist Run Space, Kulay Art Group, L’Arc en Ciel Gallery, Lemuria, M A G, Mendez Big and Small Art Co., Metro Gallery, Nineveh Artspace, Neo-AngonoArtists Collective, Ortigas Foundation, Inc., Parokyano ng Malabon, Pete Jimenez, Potter’s Group, Ral Arrogante, Resurrection Furniture and Found Objects Gallery, Secret Fresh, Sheerjoy, Silverlens, Studio 1616, Studio Bohemia, Suez and Zapote Gallery, t.art, TCAG, The Mighty Bhutens, The Thursday Group, Tin-Aw Art Gallery, TUP Fine Arts, TutoK, UP College of Fine Arts, uneARThed. and Framelogic, Vinyl on Vinyl, vMeme Contemporary Art Gallery, Zone Five Camera Club.

Art in the Park 2014: Art Made AccessiblE

will not cost more than Php30,000. It is a bargain hunt-

Art in the Park offers a whole new perspective by in-

er’s dream, with some pieces going lower than a hun-

tertwining culture, economy, and a sense of commu-

dred pesos, much less than what one would pay for a

nity as it gathers our nation’s creative individuals into

cup of fancy coffee.

one collective venue.

Art in the Park also champions the homegrown Filipi-

Taking art out of its usual confines and bringing it

no artists, not only providing them a venue to reach out

closer to people through an outdoor art fair, it encour-

to a larger market, but also giving them a venue to experi-

ages an interactive appreciation for art. This annual

ment and interact with art lovers, park visitors, families,

summer art event transforms Jaime Velasquez Park in

and friends in a casual, non-intimidating environment.

Salcedo Village, Makati City into a veritable art spec-

The participating artists, both established and

tacle. More than 58 galleries, art schools, independent

emerging, prepared for months in advance, crafting

art groups, and collectives set up shop and fill every

special pieces exclusively for the fair. Organizers make

available space in the park with paintings, prints, pho-

sure there are new things to capture the fair-goers’ at-

tographs, sculptures, collectible toys, stoneware, and

tention. With events like this regularly happening in

furniture re-purposed with artistic flair.

Jaime Velasquez Park, it’s easy to see how desirable it is

One of the main draws of Art in the Park is how it

to live nearby. The park not only becomes a venue for

makes art accessible to everyone. Both seasoned art

creative communities to connect but a place filled with

buyers and people looking to acquire their first piece or

lively music, food and drinks, and the laughter of family

two are assured that everything displayed in the fair

and friends. — (CP)

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| P R O J E C T: F O C U S

Circuit Makati: ENTERTAINMENT AT FULL CIRCLE From legendary to postmodern: Circuit Makati will become the biggest entertainment center in the metro.

Throughout generations, the Philippines has been characterized for its vibrant celebrations and entertainment. These are occasions founded by milestones of history and commitment all commemorated for the purpose of bringing communities together. Today, our entertainment is characterized by different activities, which are further emphasized by technology and subcultural influences. Makati as the Entertainment Capital Makati stands as one of the country’s biggest entertainment centers. With diverse nodes set out in every direction, each area manifests characteristics that charm urbanites longing for the privileges of city living. One of these areas specifically points towards Circuit Makati. Long before skyscrapers and luminous lights graced the central business district, there was a little place called Santa Ana. Over the years, this spot of land has evolved in many ways, while staying true to its roots: an entertainment hub at the center of the capital. In the 1920s, the Sta. Ana Cabaret was a popular haunt for the more privileged members of society,

Music Festival, and a multitude of corporate events,

and even National Artist Nicanor Abellardo figured in

outdoor movie screenings, and fitness activities. The

the cabaret’s history as a player for the orchestra.

possibilities are endless.

Eventually, this historic site entered a new phase in

The idea of having a new venue widens opportuni-

its development as it transformed into Circuit Maka-

ties for our country to grow culturally and be able to

ti, a 21-hectare mixed-use community of residential,

find an outlet for their energy and creativity. — (LV)

Celebrating at Circuit Makati

Circuit Makati is easily reached at the end of Pasong

retail, office, sports, and entertainment components.

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The action started in January 2013, when Circuit

Tamo (Chino Roces Ave.), barely one to three kilome -

Makati staged its grand launch at the Globe Circuit

ters away from the important landmarks along Ayala

Events Ground, a two-hectare open space where a

Avenue and the rest of the city. Its official address is

2,000 square meters canopy stands. Since then, the

on A.P. Reyes Avenue and Hippodromo Street, in Ba -

outdoor events ground has seen celebrations hap-

rangay Carmona. From The Columns at the corner

pen like the Caracol festival, which is participated by

of the Ayala Ave. Extension and Buendia (Gil Puyat),

Makati-based students and six barangays, the Wan-

one can easily follow South Avenue in order to reach

derland Music and Arts Festival, Circuitfest, the first

Hippodromo Street, which may also be reached

ever skate and music festival, the BigFish Exception

from JP Rizal.

Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Perspective

01 Globe Circuit Event Grounds 02 Circuit Lane 03 Circuit Makati 04 Circuit Mall, Circuit Performing Arts Theater and Seda Circuit Makati

What to see in Circuit Makati: Indoor Performing Arts Center | A 238 square meters stage area and an orchestra pit for futrure concerts that can accommodate up to 65 musicians. Mountain Dew Skate Park | A venue for local and international-level tournaments and exhibitions. Gatorade-Chelsea Blue Pitch | A turf for football schools, practice games and professional matches.

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FOCUS

Bigger, Faster, and Bolder Makati

The business capital of the country has evolved into a great city where business, lifestyle, entertainment, and culture flourish effortlessly.

hat you have in Makati is a work/life balance,”

hotels including Ayala Land’s Seda, two office towers, and

says Mel Ignacio, Assistant Vice President of

a public transit terminal. Moreover, Ayala Center will have

Ayala Land. With this idea of work-and-life

a new business convention facility that will be at the heart

equilibrium, Ayala Land announced its plans to invest

of phase two. With a plan like this, it is apparent that Ayala

Php60 billion pesos in the development of six nodes in

Center will evolve to something much more exciting.

Makati. “We embarked on the development of six nodes because we wanted to cater to a broader market base.”

Ayala Triangle Gardens: Masterplan at the

The goal was to create a premier environment not just

North Tip of the prime oasis | Dubbed as the ur-

for business. Makati, true to its being the leading city in

ban oasis of Makati, Ayala Triangle Gardens is where

the country, made it all happen. The vibrant and distinct

people come to celebrate and share experiences, like the

nodes are: a Transport Hub that makes every destination

city’s two signature events Makati Independence Day and

in Makati fast and convenient, McKinley Exchange; a Life-

Christmas Lights and Sound Show. Its beautiful parks and

style Cosmopolitan Hub where you can indulge on a wide

open spaces are conducive to activities geared toward

range of shopping and dining experiences, Ayala Center;

maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.

a Business Hub hosting the country’s movers and shakers

To add to this, Ayala Land has decided to develop the

and nurturing future leaders, Makati Central Business

Northern Tip of Ayala Triangle Gardens and soon, ATG will

District; an Urban Oasis where people relax, connect, and

be breaking ground for a new office tower, the new Manda-

converge, Ayala Triangle Gardens (ATG); a Young & Cre-

rin Hotel, and more dining and retail options. Once com-

ative Hub where you can unleash your passion and cre-

pleted, this will give Makati denizens an Ayala Triangle

ativity, City Gate; and an Entertainment Hub where some-

that can be enjoyed during both weekdays and weekends.

thing amazing is always on, Circuit Makati. Ayala Land will continue to invest in Makati to ensure

City Gate: a new mixed -use development

it is fresh and relevant. Makati will have even more world-

with a creative edge | City Gate is touted to be

class developments, new spots, varied options and excit-

the young and creative hub of Makati. It is a new mixed-

ing events, all made possible by adding another P65 Billion

use development envisioned to have a more creative edge

to the already committed Php60 billion in 2012.

to cater to the younger set that frequents this area. There will be office towers, retail, and Seda Suites but more ex-

Ayala Center: enhancing the lifestyle in

citingly, there will be a civic space that Ayala Land aims to

the city | Branded as the lifetyle cosmopolitan hub of

accomplish vertically through a series of terraces.

Makati, Ayala Center currently offers an infinite array of

comMtalk

shopping and dining options. Of late, the district has be-

Circuit Makati: living up to the promise of

come even more mixed-use with the development of the

power entertainment | The entertainment district

three big hotels, Fairmont Hotel, Raffles Suites and Resi-

of Makati, Circuit Makati is a 22-hectare district perfect for

dences, Holiday Inn and Suites.

the new generation who want their lifestyle of choice to

Phase two of the Ayala Center redevelopment will start

closely intermingle with their work and social life. Aside

beyond 2015 and be a lot grander than phase one. This will

from the Globe Circuit Events Ground which serves as

comprise of an expansion of retail spaces, two brand new

venue for open-air concerts, sports facilities have been

launched since 2013â&#x20AC;&#x201D;the Gatorade-Chelsea Blue Pitch, Mountain Dew Skate Park, and City Kart Racing. Moreover, in the next few years, there will be a big redevelopment that will include residential, retail, offices, and much more. By April 2015, Circuit Lane and the 300-seater Blackbox theater will open. And in 2016 and 2017, the main mall, office, and hotel will open together with the Performing Arts Theater, a 1,500-seater CCP-quality theater. The theater will be a venue for various talented designers, actors, performers, producers, directors and will aim to host travelling Broadway shows, major musical products and dance performances. P65 Billion in the next five years | The new developments mean another Php65 billion infusion into the city at the end of the next five years. People can expect Makati to be Bigger, Faster, and Bolder, maintaining its status as the leading and most competitive city in the country. Makati, the city that makes it all happen.

01 The gardens at Greenbelt 02 Greenbelt 4 03 circuit makati

For more information, visit Make It Makatiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official pages: www.makeitmakati.com www.facebook.com/makeitmakati

04 Ayala Museum, Makati City 05 Tower one and Exchange Plaza

www.twitter.com/makeitmakati

comMtalk

P R O J E C T: F O C U S

arca south: metro manila’s upcoming central business district

Ayala Land explores new possibilities with an upcoming district that will arc key destinations in Southern Metro Manila.

Arca South is envisioned to become a 74-hectare mixed-use district that will rise as a hotspot for cosmopolitan living between the country’s two leading business districts: Makati and Bonifacio Global City. The concept behind this is through the name’s origin, with the word “arc” defined as a circumference of a circle or curve that encompasses the dimensions of Arca’s role as a portal to progress. Its location synchronizes within Metro Manila’s growth centers and serves as a gateway to contemporary conveniences such as key business districts, internationally acclaimed medical facilities, educational institutions, landmarks and retail destinations. Accessibility is a key advantage of Arca South. As

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THE VERANDA: YOUR URBAN RETREAT IN THE CITY As a masterplanned district, Arca South will offer office,

it progresses, the Department of Transportation and

retail and residential components. For urban achiev-

Communication plans a much anticipated modern

ers who seek a modern and upscale community, Alveo

Intermodal Transport System (ITS). This will serve as

Land introduces The Veranda, a four-tower mid-rise,

a central station for provincial buses that cross desti-

low-density residential condominium that will frame

nations between Laguna, Batangas, Quezon, and the

essential breathable spaces, efficient architecture, and

Bicol Region. The ITS is also situated beside a PNR

natural light and air.

rail station which will link passengers to other areas of

The development is planned to rise within the bur-

Metro Manila, and the rest of Luzon. A separate set of

geoning city of Taguig, settled within the quiet side of

access ramps will be provided to the South Terminal,

Arca South fronting Canyon Park. Its architecture is

which will be autonomous from private vehicles. The

Skyway to C5/C6 connector road project will also en-

ture International, pushing forward to progress through

able the linkage of the bus terminal and the Arca South

access, variety, and efficiency. The condominium is

with the proposed NAIA-NLEX Expressway project to

designed with intimate-scaled amenities, providing a

serve fast access to NAIA, the Manila-Cavite Coastal

choice between one to two-bedroom units within en-

Road, as well as to Makati’s Central Business District.

vironments that are subliminally planned to highlight

Alveo Land brings a new light to living and lifestyle From the Latin words aero (air), flux (fluidity), and lux (light), the Aeroflux System revolutionizes living in the metro by creating breathable and naturally illuminated spaces. This complements the Veranda’s bifurcated building design by maximizing air circulation and light dispersion within its setting. Beaming with atriums and shared green spaces, the Aeroflux System gives residents a refreshing sense of vitality in everyday city living.

sightlines, effective energy use, and a space to complement the development of human scale. Veranda’s landscape comprise 40 percent of the land area, creating a sense of retreat and community.

It will also be the first Alveo development to introduce a building technology called the Aeroflux System, which creates a well-ventilated structure that encour-

Artist’s perspectIve

ages natural ventilation and light to circulate through its atriums.

01 Arca South Regional Mall

Walkable streets, generous urban gardens and pocket parks, lively retail spaces, and residential communities gather at the heart of a fully connected growth cen-

02 Aerial VIEW

ter. With its intimately-scaled amenities and greens, The

03 Veranda Main Lobby

Veranda at Arca South is designed to attune an easy and

04 Veranda 2BR Living

effortless lifestyle with key accessibilities and breathable spaces giving residents an opportunity to enjoy an innovative, modern work-life environment. — (AH)

05 The Veranda Tower from Canyon Park

focus

CEBU: THE SME SCENE

An entrepreneur talks about the favorable conditions and challenges of doing business in the South.

anila may be considered as the commercial cap-

their money and are not easily swayed by mere hype. It is

ital of the country, but a celebrity restaurateur

a good challenge to find the right balance of good quality

once revealed that, “if you can make it in Cebu,

and the right price.”

you can make it anywhere in the country.” Opportunities abound for enterprising individuals in the Queen City of

Laid-back market | Gretchen talks about the Cebua-

the South, as Gretchen Choa-Uy discovered upon relocat-

nos’ buying behavior too, “I think Cebu will always be

ing here from Manila. “I married a Cebuano, so I natural-

laidback; it is the appeal of Cebu after all. It is a city where

ly moved to Cebu. It was only when we had our first baby

you can still relax, unwind and go to the beach in less

that we realized Cebu still lacked the options that were

than an hour. Manila does not have that luxury of time.

available in Manila. I often asked my sister or friends to

This extends to the purchasing behavior. In Manila, most

buy some items for me. However, the decision to set up in

customers make quick and fast decisions because of var-

Cebu was not purely based on convenience of location, but

ious factors of location, availability, time, etc., Cebuanos

the opportunity to make goods available to Cebuanos that

take their time, enjoy browsing and are not rushed to buy

were not there before.”

immediately because stores are relatively close by. It’s

It was not long before she started distributing various infant/children’s products nationwide, and she recently

also not overly crowded when shopping, so you can do so with ease.”

ventured into retail with the opening of her Modern Mama

She gives tips on how to build a business in Cebu. “One,

Baby Shop –a baby boutique carrying a curated selection

you must learn the language. In my personal experience,

of specialty products for moms and their kids.

you understand a person’s perspective if you understand their language. This makes it easier to do business or even

Constant change | She talks about the economic cli-

simply make friends. Second, is to remove all cookie-cut-

mate of her new home base, and the factors that make it

ter notions about parts of Cebu that are “like” or a “mini”

favorable for starting a business. “It is both exciting and

version of a business in Manila. Cebu has its own charm,

challenging. The rise of real estate projects, especially

with key spots that bear no similarity with anything in

those of condominiums were almost unheard of ten years

Manila. Take the time to discover Cebu and its people, so

ago. But by 2016, it seems that the Cebu landscape will be

you know how to best set up your business. I’m still discov-

more and more urban, more cosmopolitan. BPOs have also

ering, and I’ve been living here for seven years!”

invaded Cebu, and this means more young people have an increased amount of spending power unlike before. I think

Talking space | At the moment, Gretchen says that

these developments make it exciting for any SME to bring

they are renting their commercial space, but sooner or lat-

their business to Cebu.”

er, a growing business will consider investing in property.

She gives caution, though. “This does not mean howev-

It’s the same way when someone decides to buy a house or

er that any business will work in Cebu. Cebu is known to

condominium unit with the intention of profiting from it

be a tricky market. Cebuanos are frugal, know the value of

now or in the near future.

p hot o g ra p hy L e y l a n T. R o marat e o f M y C e bu P h oto B lo g

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Seizing opportunities | Now is the best time to set up a business in the Queen City of the South. Cebu offers

Here, we give the pros and cons of leasing versus

a distinct mix of old-world charm and progressive spirit.

investing in your own property.

This is a big draw not only to foreign investments, but local enterprises as well. According to Filipino economist, Gerard P. Sicat, as of May 2014, 56 percent of Metro Cebuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s domestic economic output is due to industry, with services pegged at 36 percent. Agriculture, with main products corn and coconut, accounts for only 8 percent of its output. It is very accessible not only with its international airport, but also through a major seaport. For foreign visitors and tourists island-hopping from neighboring municipalities such as Bohol, Dumaguete, and Tacloban, Cebu now accounts for 40 percent of total tourist arrivals in the country, and 76 percent of tourism in the region. As it is a major hub in the Visayan province, it has large universities such as UP Cebu, University of San Jose Recoletos, and San Carlos University that offer skilled manpower from among its graduates. Business is likely to boom even bigger too, especially with the coming ASEAN integration in 2015 that will open up more tourism opportunities and make business transactions easier and more convenient for all parties involved. Big brands have already set their footprints on

Leasing. Smaller cash outlay. Lease agreements usually ask for a smaller down payment. Smaller start-ups can focus their cash reserves towards building a brand before making major investments. With a lease agreement, major repairs and maintenance are the responsibility of the lessor. When you own the property, you assume all the costs and trouble of finding a technician or repairman. However these options are short-term. If your business starts to expand; you may need a bigger office space to accommodate staff and inventory. A lease of one to five years will give entrepreneurs a feel of the location, the market, and its response to the products and services offered by the company. Investing. Property is an investment. Even when there is market depreciation, property values usually rise over time. Even Forbes magazine advises buying when the market is on a decline because of the lower prices and interest rates. You can save money by owning the property. Rent can increase over time, and at the discretion of the lessor (within legal limits). Financial institutions can offer flexible payment terms and refinancing options for your property investment. You also have control over your property. If you want to renovate or make additions to your structure, you do not need to ask permission from another party.

the major metropolis, and from all indications, the trend is

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| P R O J E C T: F O C U S

Mindanao’s Winning ADDRESS

Abreeza Residences is awarded for redefining innovation in the prestigious city of Davao.

Alveo Land’s Signature Address in Abreeza Davao Wins AwardS Alveo Land’s Abreeza Residences has been adjudged as the Best Condominium Development (Davao) at the 2014 Philippines Property Awards, and highly commended in the Best Condominium Development (Philippines) in the 2014 Southeast Asia Property Awards. Launched in 2011, the project is in partnership with Accendo Commercial Corp., and was the maiden residential offering in the equally pioneering Abreeza district in Davao City —the first masterplanned Ayala township in the region. Alveo is the standard bearer for innovation of Ayala Land, the most experienced and trusted real estate developer in the Philippines. “This recognition is important to us because it af-

firms our success in bringing our city living expertise to fast-developing regional centers such as Mindanao,” said Robert Lao, Alveo Land president, in a statement. “This award is also a testament to the faith of our buyers who share our vision of innovation and dynam-

temporary condo lifestyle—providing a desirable,

ic modern living,” he added.

exclusive address for the growing segment of discrim-

The Philippines Property Awards is a precursor to

inating residents in the region.

the South East Asia Property Awards, a component

The 26-story residential development is located

of the Asia Property Awards which started in Thai-

right in the heart of the city capital of Davao. Its 243

land in 2005.

units provide a variety of studio to three-bedroom

The Asia Property Awards offer an unrivalled showcase of the region’s real estate industry, boosting

configurations, ranging from 31 square meters to 218 square meters.

awareness and highlighting top quality developers,

In a few years since its introduction in the market,

projects and services. The competition shines a spot-

the development has nearly been completely sold out,

light on the high-caliber work within the Asian real

with target completion and turnover to unit owners by

estate industry, encompassing construction, architec-

the last quarter of 2015.

ture, and interior design.

Abreeza Residences provides unparalleled convenience, being integrated into the Abreeza district

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Most Desirable Address in Davao

masterplan, which includes the Abreeza Mall, Seda

Abreeza Residences holds the distinction of inno-

Abreeza boutique hotel, as well as the Abreeza Cor-

vating city living in Southern Philippines with its con-

porate Center.

The newest component of the Abreeza district is the twin-tower Abreeza Place high-rise condominium.

Ayala Land Rises as Top Real Estate Developer in South East Asia

“Buying a unit at Abreeza Place is the latest opportunity for homeseekers to be part of the Abreeza community,” said Lao. Abreeza Place completes the Abreeza masterplan with its more relaxed and vibrant lifestyle, created by its resort-inspired atmosphere that embodies Davao’s idyllic charm. “People can look forward to Abreeza Place providing the same quality of innovative city living that the award-winning Abreeza Residences is known for,” concluded Lao. — (JBC) Artist’s perspectIve 01 Abreeza Residences

Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI), has been awarded as Real Estate Developer of the Year at the 2014 Southeast Asia Property Awards. From high calibre architectural work to interior design, the Southeast Asia Property Awards showcases a scope of the finest real estate industries, highlighting frontier developers, innovative projects and services all over the region. ALI bested other contenders like Major Development PCL (Real Estate Developer of the Year – Thailand), Vingroup Joint Stock Company (Vietnam), Sinar Mas Land (Indonesia), and Frasers Centrepoint Ltd (Singapore). The judges distinguished ALI's diverse offering of affordable to luxury homes and other innovative works not only concentrated within Metro Manila but across the nation. Ayala Land President and CEO Bernard Vincent O. Dy personally accepted this award at the Shangri-la Hotel in Singapore as he spoke of what great honor and pride it is to have gone this far. “We will continue to remain true to our commitment to be a strong partner in nation-building, aligned with our vision and goals in the coming years – to enhance land and enrich the lives of more Filipinos".

02 Aerial view of Abreeza district

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FOCUS

MINDANAO COFFEE: IN the land of starbucks and 3-in-1: philippine coffee deserves more limelight

Coffee growers in Mindanao are hoping to get a big bite of both the local and global markets.

nknown to many, 70 percent of the country’s

In spite of these accolades and figures, the problem

coffee supply now comes from the Mindanao

lies within the lack of funding and access to technology.

region. While Batangas and Cavite provinces

Pastor Fred Fredeluces, CEO of GreenTropics Coffee

remain major players in the industry, growers in the

Enterprise based in General Santos City, admitted that

South have been slowly dominating the market share in

it may require a lot, but with enough support he is confi-

the last few years.

dent in the region’s big potential.

In fact, the SOCCSARGEN region is now vying for the

“There is a need to increase production per unit area

title, “Coffee Capital of the Philippines.” Soccssargen or

and improve the overall quality of harvested coffee.

Region 12 is comprised of the provinces of South Cota-

Technical and financial support is much needed so that

bato, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato,

the farmers can increase the volume and improve the

along with the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Ta-

quality of coffee production,” he shares.

curong, Kidapawan, and Cotabato.

The Department of Agriculture Region 12 is hoping

According to a Philippine Information Agency (PIA)

to make big changes in the next few years. They have

report in November 2013, data from the Department

launched programs to educate local farmers and intro-

of Agriculture (DA) indicate that the region produced

duce them to new technologies of growing and process-

28,502 metric tons (MT) of coffee in 2011, contributing to

ing coffee. In November 2013, they held the Mindanao

30.98 percent of the country’s annual production.

Coffee Producers Congress in General Santos City with

In addition, four Mindanao towns received an in-

resource persons from Nestle Philippines Inc., Benguet

ternational certification from the 4C (Common Code

State University, Philippine Coffee Board, and Viet-

for the Coffee Community) Association in 2012, an in-

nam’s Agro-Forestry and Scientific and Technical Insti-

dustry governing body promoting fair trade and sus-

tute. It may only be just the beginning, but everybody

tainable agricultural practices. These are the towns of

has to start somewhere.

Sen. Ninoy Aquino, Kalamansig, and Lebak in Sultan

More than local efforts to lift the industry, producers

Kudarat, and Tagbina in Surigao del Norte. There are

also hope to attract international investments someday.

currently more than 150 coffee-producing groups in the

“The design for engagement should be on a part-

world whose coffee has been verified to have been pro-

nership mode. The international partners may of-

duced, processed and traded based on the 4C associa-

fer the market financing and technology, while the

tion’s sustainability criteria.

ordinary farmers become local farm managers and producers. The contract shall be crafted based on the fair trade principle.”

We can rise above the present circumstances and take part in the emerging vibrant coffee industry, not only on the local level but also globally.

Reclaiming the Global Market | The Philippines was once a major coffee producing country, being in fact the fourth largest producer in the world some 200 years ago. The country’s soil condition and climate are perfect

p hoto g ra p hy curr e n t s w e l l c o ff e e br e w e ry

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01 harvested coffee beans checked for quality 02 the before and after coffee roast 03 the roasting process

for producing Arabica, Liberica (Barako), Excelsa and

supporting the industry should be part of crafting a

Robusta. Batangas and Cavite originally dominated

“coffee roadmap,” to synergize efforts in supporting

production, but today provinces like Bukidnon, Ben-

the coffee producers.

guet, Davao, and South Cotabato produce their own, equally high-grade coffee.

Majority of local coffee producers are dependent on big companies that buy the beans and process them

Today, the world’s top 5 biggest coffee exporters are

into instant coffee products. What Mr. Fredeluces and

Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Mexico, and Indonesia, with

other small and medium-sized coffee producers hope

the Philippines ranking 110th. But given enough sup-

to achieve is to improve production and stabilize mar-

port, coffee growers from Mindanao are confident they

keting of locally–produced coffee products.

can get higher on that list.

“There is a need to advocate and campaign for more

“The farmers have to open their eyes and see the opportunities. They need to transform themselves from

coffee planting because most of the trees planted

mere producers into entrepreneurs. I believe that we

during the ‘glory days’ of coffee in the Philippines were

can rise above the present circumstances and take part

cut down and replaced with other traditional crops

in the emerging vibrant coffee industry, not only on the

like corn. There is also a need to campaign for the con-

local level but also globally.

sumption and patronage of locally produced coffee over

Then maybe, just maybe, Filipino coffee drinkers

imported ones, and stabilize the buying price of coffee

would soon be lining up to buy their Macchiato and

beans,” Mr. Fredeluces says.

Mocha Frap from locally produced coffee beans. A nice

He also suggests that the government agencies

thought, indeed. — (GG)

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P R O J E C T: F O C U S

SEDA: THe boutique luxury

Comfortable, intimate, and convenient, boutique hotels give luxury facilities a quaint face in Filipino hospitality.

Boutique hotels have been known to be a space for comfort outside of home. They are intimate, independent, and designed to be one-of-a-kind. They exude an individualistic theme of curated furnishings that make it a chic and trending accommodation. These cozy nooks

The Seda Experience

offer a more personal service too, and strive to offer only

Everything about Seda is sleek, exclusive and defi-

the best services and locations for a leisurely stay.

nitely un-generic. Like the hotel’s service and ameni-

Today, boutique hotels pave their way in local hospi-

ties, the atmosphere or ambience in all Seda hotels is

tality with Seda.

also one-of-a-kind.

Recognized and Certified

that is pressed to find anywhere else. Seda has that un-

Seda is the first wholly-owned and managed brand

mistakable contemporary vibe for sophisticated and

of Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corporation, which

highly individualistic customers.

Seda strives to offer its guests ultra-personal service

operates the various Seda hotels in the country. The

In fact, Seda BGC is one of the first hotels in the Phil-

experience is a seamless blend of excellent customer

ippines to offer a paperless check-in. Guests can also

service, great value for money, and good locations for

make use of the hotel’s complimentary wi-fi for unin-

guests to explore exciting destinations.

terrupted connectivity. The hotel’s stylish e-lounge with

In February 2014, Seda became the first hotel brand in Asia to be recognized by the American Hotel & Lodg-

its bank of iMacs allows guests to surf or check emails at their convenience.

ing Educational Institute (AHLEI) as a Certified “Gold Service” Property (CGSP). Ed Kastli, AHLEI vice pres-

The Filipino Sensibility

ident, disclosed that being named a Customer “Gold

The boutique hotel’s open layout maximizes the cozy

Service” Property is an affirmation that an establish-

ground floor space while allowing them to work, social-

ment’s frontliners meet the highest international stan-

ize with other guests, and dine or drink as they please.

dard of service.

For example, Seda BGC’s reception area, lobby, and Misto restaurant flow freely into one another—giving

Luxurious yet Resilient

guests the freedom of movement that is so integral to

Seda is named after the Filipino word for “silk” because

their lifestyle.

it represents the hotel brand’s commitment to providing smooth, high quality service.

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Seda’s contemporary interiors also showcase the best of Philippine design. Pieces by Kenneth Cobon-

Technically a boutique hotel, Seda is intimately small-

pue, Ann Pamintuan, Tom Epperson and photogra-

er for a personal and unique hotel experience. It is hom-

pher-industrialist Jaime Zobel de Ayala proudly hold

ey but efficient, grand but not distracting. It marries the

court in the lobby, guestrooms, restaurant, and bar—a

convenience of commercial hotels and the comfortable

testament to the brand’s commitment of highlighting

atmosphere of home.

Filipino talent and excellence.

01 roofdeck bar al fresco area 02 misto restaurant at seda bgc hotel 03 seda BGC Hotel

The interiors of Seda BGC use calm, neutral colors and minimalist silhouettes. Designed by architect and interior designer Conrad Onglao, it also has masterful fea-

Seda Bonifacio Global City

tures like the glass walls and “al fresco” seating at Misto

Located near Bonifacio High Street, Seda BGC is a perfect venue for individuals who like to be where shopping, dining, and entertainment centers are abound. It is 30 minutes from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and 15 minutes away from the Makati Central Business District (CBD).

restaurant. In guest rooms and suites, beds are designed for maximum comfort, complemented by a long alcove seat below the window which doubles as a daybed or extra seating for visitors. Amenities ensure utmost convenience, including a wide-screen LED HDTV, mini-bar,

Seda Centrio (Cagayan de Oro City)

in-room safe suited for laptops, executive desk, and me-

Connecting to Centrio Mall, Seda Centrio ensures security and exclusivity with a private entrance that leads to the Front Desk at the fourth floor. The hotel is a perfect business or vacation hotel; approximately an hour’s drive to the Laguindingan Airport and 20 minutes away from popular tourist attractions like Mapawa Nature Park.

dia panel with universal adaptor and audio-visual connectivity. This can be used for laptops to hook up to the 40-inch television screen for enhanced viewing of data, photos or other documents, allowing guests to work from their hotel room if necessary.

Seda Abreeza (Davao City) SEDA: The Home of Filipino Hospitality As an urban lifestyle hotel, Seda aims to provide each visitor with an “optimal guest experience” through state-of-the-art technology and the personable service that is distinctly Filipino Sought after and recognized within the hospitality in-

Seda Abreeza is an easy 20-minute drive to the Davao International Airport. Its location in the Abreeza district enables convenient access to various tourist attractions such as the Philippine Eagle breeding camp, white water rafting, and one of the country’s longest zip lines. It is also just an hour away from the port where boats depart for Samal Island’s white sand beaches and diving spots, and a few hours away from the Philippines’ highest peak, Mt. Apo.

dustry all over the world, Seda hotels will highlight what’s local while continuing to provide international standards

Seda Nuvali

in terms of service, amenities and surroundings.

Seda NUVALI forms an integral part of the NUVALI eco-city development in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. The hotel offers 150 contemporary styled rooms, a straight up roof deck bar and signature restaurant, Misto, that overlooks the stunning lake view. It’s only a few steps away from Solenad’s dining and retail outlets, and a short distance from The Monochrome Events Place and sports facilities, like the wake-boarding site, Republic Wakepark NUVALI.

Seda guarantees a surprising and delightful hospitality experience representing the best that the Philippines has to offer. — (IM)

For more info, visit www.sedahotels.com

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Visit our showroom at Lifescapes by Alveo (Ayala Center) G/F Greenbelt 3 Ayala Center, Makati City

PROSPECTS

Capital success begins with key investments. Starting your own business takes patience, perseverance and proper guidance. In a bustling economy, perspectives and experience paint a bigger picture for creative startups and evolving industries.

comMtalk

PROSPECTS

ENTREPRENEURS: TOP OPPORTUNITIES

Why progressive times bring higher opportunities for our economy.

t has long been established that entrepreneurship

“Sigurista kasi ang mga Filipino. Sanay tayo sa madalian.

provides higher opportunities for wealth accumu-

Mahirap yung iisip ka pa ng iba. Gusto natin kumikita na at pa-

lation than employment. However, sometimes, the

tok at nagbabase tayo sa successful na. Nakaready na ‘yung

risks associated with starting a business may discourage

systems sa franchising kaya wala nang iisipin,” she says.

people who then end up taking the less financially re-

De la Peña observes that while proven franchises pro-

warding, but safer employment route. After all, starting

vide good returns, the same model also limits potential

a business is no guarantee of success. Getting it to sur-

for growth. She advises aspiring entrepreneurs to try out

vive is, in fact, very hard. According to the Association of

other business models and explore industries that have

Filipino Franchisers, Inc., independent businesses have

yet to be fully harnessed by Filipinos.

a 12 percent success rate. In short, for every Henry Sy, Sr.

“Halos lahat ng possible business, nasubukan na ng mga

who rose to become the Philippines’ richest man, there

Filipino pero meron pa ring industries na hindi pa na-extract

are nine others who should not have quit their day jobs.

(ang full potential,)” she counsels.

The desire to minimize risk has moved Filipi-

Here are some business ideas worth exploring:

nos towards the franchising model, according to Glen De la Peña, executive director of the Center for Small Entrepreneurs (CSE).

i l l u st ra t i o n ra l p h n e i l carr e o n

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Online-based retail businesses | De la Pena say

egy game Clash of Clans. In 2013, a 51 percent stake in Super-

that the CSE has been advocating for local entrepreneurs

cell was bought by a Japanse firm for $1.5 billion.

to explore opening online shops. Lower cost is the primary come on; all you need is a laptop and the internet. There

Goat farming | With leaner protein and a high amount

are free websites available such as Weebly, while those

of unsaturated fat, goat meat or chevon is said to be

looking for a professionally-made one should be ready to

healthier than the traditional meats consumed by Filipi-

shell out at least Php15,000.

nos. This makes it an appealing choice among the grow-

Aside from low capital requirements, its potential for

ing number of health buffs in the country, and those look-

customers is also enticing because websites are accessible

ing for business in the not so high-tech fields. As of June

anywhere. There are, however, drawbacks. Most Filipinos

2013, the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics showed that

still prefer to do their shopping offline and Internet pene-

backyard farms account for 98 percent of the industry’s

tration in the country is barely at 50 percent. As things im-

production. This means small businessmen can easily en-

prove, expect a strong challenge from more established

ter the market, while bigger enterprises can consolidate

businesses like online shopping giant E-bay, and its local

the industry and commercialize operations. Aside from

counterpart OLX.ph (formerly known as Sulit.com).

goat meat, farmers may also sell by–products such as milk, cheese and even hair. As goats only account for 3.24

Online services | The outsourcing industry is expect-

percent of the annual average volume of livestock produc-

ed to bring in $18 billion to the country this year. While

tion, the growth potential is there. According to the De-

the sector is dominated by big companies, this option is

partment of Trade and Industry, the initial investment for

open to highly skilled professionals who can open their

a 25-head farm is only Php70,000, with the returns avail-

own consultancies for individual customers or corpo-

able as early as two years into the business.

rations. The services can range from providing English instructions for foreigners to accounting and auditing

Condo leasing and rental | EDSA has an estimated

work. You can start small and provide services on your

daily capacity of 280,000 vehicles, but nearly 330,000 use

own then steadily grow the business.

this road everyday. The government is working on easing the traffic situa-

Export of local crafts and food items | For-

tion, but real estate developers are already offering their

eigners are as fascinated with our local products as much

own. By building residential buildings near commercial

we are with theirs. While we may take those items for

centers, workers now have the option to live closer to their

granted, De la Pena thinks those can fetch a good price

offices and avoid the hassles of commuting.

in international markets. She points to woven products

Real estate agents are marketing condominium units

from the provinces among the items that can be popu-

not just for personal use, but also as investment options.

lar abroad. Local delicacies are also products that could

Purchasing a condo unit can make you an instant land-

possibly enjoy success if brought outside the Philippines.

lord. This is ideal for house owners who have the capital

The export industry, however, is a tough field to play on.

and time to spare waiting for returns without having to be

Fortunes here are as dependent on the peso’s fluctua-

too hands-on in managing a business.

tion as much as on the quality of the products. As the

A studio-type unit will set you back by at least

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas frequently says, the com-

Php2 million pesos so you need to have a substantial

petition is global so local exporters need to step up their

amount of capital. The good news though is that you don’t

game by improving quality, accelerating turnaround and

need to plunk this down in one go. You can move in by

searching for new products and markets to stay relevant

paying at least 30 percent equity, then you can start look-

and profitable.

ing for tenants. The initial investment may also be the only cash you need to shell out if you get a tenant right

Smartphone app development | A February 2014

away and he signs on for a long term lease. The rent may

study by Nielsen states that smartphones account for only

be used for the amortization thus the investment will pay

15 percent of the total mobile phone units in the country,

for itself.

but will dominate the market in two years with the entry

The most important part of this business is to buy from a

of cheaper brands. This provides numerous opportunities

reputable developer at an ideal location. By doing this, you

for enterprising techies to develop mobile apps that cater to

will have an easier time getting tenants and fetch a good

the local market. And while this has yet to come, local devel-

rate for your unit. You may tap the property management

opers should already take advantage of the massive global

offices of your building to market your unit, or you can do

market that is always on the lookout for hot new apps. Four

it on your own. A good property management office can

years ago, a Finnish app company with 12 people called Su-

also take care of maintenance concerns for the tenants,

perCell released what would become the very popular strat-

sparing you from everyday handyman duties. — (DGK)

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| P R O J E C T: F O C U S

Vertis NORTH: An exuberant business and lifestyle community

As one of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading capitals, Quezon City slowly rises as one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cultural hot spots, influencing a verdant and progressive way of living.

There is something uplifting about being surrounded by creative energy and the unbridled vitality for success. In many cities across the country, communities have sprouted and emerged from the need to provide a conducive space for families, start-ups, businesses, and homegrown enterprises. These places encourage a free and uninhibited flow of lifestyle and entrepreneurial drive, with ideas that change the landscape of the city, and influences the way people interact with their environment. Quezon City is a unique mix of administrative, commercial, and educational establishments that lend a diverse and universal feel, with never a shortage of things to do and corners to explore. For soulful and passionate

greenery, and ample open spaces. Set against a verdant

workers, a close-knit community is essential so that they

backdrop of quiet residential communities and a pepper-

can be among likeminded friends. For those who like to

ing of unique businesses and stores, Quezon City offers

feel the rush of adrenaline and accomplishment, Quezon

a unique lifestyle that brings you close to offices, shop-

City is also for the active and fearless spirit.

ping centers, universities, and schools in the surrounding

At the junction of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main routes for trans-

areas. Imagine a day at work promenading in a verdant

portation, Quezon City embraces the appeal of a vibrant

garden, surrounded by shops and dining establishments

and energetic town with its tree-lined avenues, lush

to enjoy a good meal with friends and family.

Quezon City is also slowly catching up with

presents numerous exciting prospects for

the trend of melding workplaces with green-

individuals and businesses. At the center of

ery and landscaping, without sacrificing that

it all is Ayala Land’s Vertis North, a sprawling

sense of urgency and activity that any busy

new development in the metro’s northern ex-

city affords. A dynamic and sprawling city, af-

panse that aims to encapsulate the spirit of a

ter all, should allow people to work and play in

homey, productive, and fun environment. Its

a space that is safe, healthy, and green. There

Vertis Park, in particular, features verdant land-

are definitely a lot of possibilities to explore.

scapes integrated in the 30-hectare area of

The constant reinvention of its cityscape

the development.

Artist’s perspectIve

AERIAL VIEW OF VERTIS NORTH

| P R O J E C T: F O C U S

Artist’s perspectIve

01 HIGH PARK STUDIO UNIT 02 HIGH PARK 1-BR UNIT 03 HIGH PARK BUILDING FACADE 04 HIGH PARK SKY GARDEN VIEWS

High Park, a signature residential tower of Alveo Land

est of the Seda Hotel chains. Business also forms an

in Vertis North, will serve as a pivotal residential com-

important core of the development, enhancing the role

munity for those who put a premium on comfort and

of innovative entrepreneurs — both big and small, local

convenience. Elevating the greenery of an otherwise

and global—with support facilities such as one-stop

usual concrete cityscape, the building design and ame-

business centers, tax incentives, and training programs.

nities revolve around the idea of bringing the outdoors

Medical institutions, schools, and business districts

in. Sky gardens are located on every three floors, over-

are also within a short distance to the estate, with Ver-

looking an expanse that thoughtfully integrates green

tis North built as an enclave that is both an engine for

parks and refreshing scenery with business centers,

growth, and a forward-thinking city center with green

lifestyle facilities, and even a hotel, Seda Vertis, the larg-

and responsible living at its heart.

In Vertis North—the vibrancy of nature and leisure exudes just steps from your door Blissful. Cultivating the seeds of ingenuity—a community emerges in Vertis North, Quezon City’s hub for energized living. High Park, Alveo Land’s residential address here, reshapes the urban landscape by elevating the city’s green experience. From Vertis Park to al fresco dining scenes, homes enlivened by imaginative amenities, you’ll find sky gardens every three floors. Shooting up into multiple layers of landscape, each moment intensifies with new heights on living.

TO N LE

MIND

A N AO

A V E.

Welcome to your place at the center of life.

NORT

H A V E.

AGH AM

VERTIS NORTH

Z UE

M AK I AT

(632) 848 5100 • www.alveoland.com.ph HLURB Temporary License to Sell Number ENCRFO No. 14-04-010 | Rufino Hermann S. Gutierrez PRC-REBL No. 0004771 Visit our showroom at High Park at Vertis North 3/F Trinoma Mall, Mindanao Ave., Quezon City

PROSPECTS

INVESTMENTS: TRADITIONAL vs REAL ESTATE

There are tangible and intangible investments; it’s up to you to find which will bring real financial growth. Here are some valuable insights to ponder before making the leap.

nvesting your hard-earned savings should be a sim-

plify your investment potential. The complexity has

ple and straightforward process. There are many in-

been neutralized, so all you need to do is find a repu-

vestment vehicles that are available on the market,

table firm with a solid track record before signing on

but each has their own risks and opportunities.

the dotted line.

Investment is often a bespoke endeavor, with a

If you want to be more involved and take charge of

multitude of factors that can influence one’s choices. I

your cash, consider investing in equities. The local

would often ask the expectations of the potential inves-

stock market offers a cornucopia of corporations deal-

tors, their time frame, and aversion to risk, maybe even

ing with different aspects of business, including con-

the sources and future uses of their funds. I would mix

struction, retail, manufacturing, mining, even gaming.

that up into some kind of stew, add some common eco-

Choose a company and industry you understand and be

nomic and historical data, and give them their options.

a shareholder.

Stocks, Bonds, and Shares | Investment isn’t

potential for high returns, there’s even the foreign ex-

as hard or scary as most people think. Wall Street and

change market. There are options and futures markets

Hollywood have always painted investing as a world of

as well.

For those with a penchant for risk coupled with the

mathematical labyrinths and secret handshakes, but

You can also invest in a business as a lot of compa-

the truth is it’s really quite simple and straightforward.

nies are in need of capital every single day. The poten-

There are literally hundreds of financial instruments

tial for growth is there, and if you have a good idea for

offered by banks and fund companies, each with their

your own business, funding and growing it would be a

own risks and returns.

fulfilling experience. But it’s not for everyone, of course.

There are bonds and deposit products that are rela-

Starting and growing a business is a major undertaking,

tively safe, resulting in a steady interest income. There

and it will entail risks, attention to detail, and good old

are mutual funds, which with diversified assets, am-

hard work.

p hoto g ra p hy a l e x a n d e r rat h s (c o mpf i g h t )

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Real value in Real Estate | How about real estate?

should be computed to yield a proper income from the

Real estate and land in particular, is finite, so its value

original purchase price.

will always increase in time. A building, a house, a piece

For each type of investment, there are always risks

of land, these properties are tangible; buying them as

and potential returns. There is no perfect investment,

investments give a psychological sense of security.

and we can only look for opportunities that can grow

Good properties have distinct characteristics which

our hard-earned money with the amount of risk we

separate them from bad investments. Location is par-

can tolerate. Diversification is key to strike a balance

amount. Good properties are in safe, secure communi-

between income optimization and risk management.

ties with access to good schools and medical facilities. They should be near public transportation and enter-

Know and understand the different types of investments, and make your money work for you. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; (DG*)

tainment/shopping areas. Investing in good properties entail costs, and they do not end after the final check has been paid. There

* Dino Galura has been a business consultant for more than

are annual and monthly fees, and maintenance of

twenty years. After majoring in Business Management from

properties should be factored in as well. If a proper-

Ateneo de Manila University, he started as a technology con-

ty investment is meant to produce a steady rental in-

sultant for Andersen Consulting, then moved on to corporate

come, then this income should pay for expenses and

finance and investment management with SGV & Co. and

produce a reasonable profit. If oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intent is to resell

Sun Hung Kai Securities. He actively manages his own fund,

the property after a period of time, cost of money

but his passion for writing never stops.

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SURVIVAL GUIDE:

PROSPECTS

ResTaurant Businesses A little advice on progressive trends in the food biz.

f you’re in the food business, it’s hard to ignore the

dards, and is very competitive at that. Look at our lo-

glut of trends going viral among the paying masses.

cal culinary schools to see how updated the work

We see the cronut maintaining its influence with an

force is, with foreign chefs arriving en masse to teach

endless march of hybrid offshoots. Then there’s cook-

new techniques.

ies shaped into shot glasses and filled with milk; DIY

But if you’re thinking of cashing in on the latest

experiments from pizza to pancakes; cleansing diets

craze, you might get overwhelmed with foodies and

and juice bars; French macarons filled with ice cream;

bloggers rushing into new-fangled eats and posting

dried and pickled meat and veggies—even ice cream

their finds on blogs and Instagram. It’s a dilemma

prepared with liquid nitrogen right under your nose.

worth pondering: how do you keep business cooking

Kool Kids Ice Cream was derived from a new culinary trend which Chef JJ Viel explains as “molecular gas-

while dealing with changing trends that inf luence customer tastes?

tronomy.” It was popularized by Spanish Chef Ferran

JJ takes a more down-to-earth approach: “I think

Adrià who has extended the idea of applying in–depth

trends are a matter of trial and error, and proper mar-

science to cooking. This only shows how creative food

keting. If people enjoy the product, it can stay on for

entrepreneurs are in using sophisticated ideas to push

decades until another trend displaces it.” He believes

the ante. In a bid to become the next hot thing on social

that it’s better to create something that is solely yours

media, what was once taboo has now become the norm.

It’s also evident that the Philippines is doing its best in keeping up with international changes and stan-

than to go with a cheap fix. Here are some tips to guide you in concocting The Next Hot Thing:

i l l u st ra t i o n s Dar l e n e S e g ura

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Rotate the menu | Anna de Ocampo of Wildflour admits that they change their menu every week. But if an old customer comes in and asks for a dish he got last

Travel, get exposed, surf | Wildflour’s Anna

week, they serve him that, if possible. Otherwise, some

says travelling a lot and being exposed to different

items are added and removed. “We don’t like people to

things are good for product development. “I like to go

be tired of us. We just keep being as dynamic as we can.”

out and look for different ideas outside the Philippines.” If you don’t have the time or the budget, check out what people are eating and uploading in Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Get inspired to do your own thing.

Know thy market | Don’t compromise the product to suit the general taste. JJ says “Italian Spa-

Add on to your favorite

ghetti Pomodoro should be sour.

dish | Rudy Muller, executive chef

Wouldn’t it be ridiculous to make it

of Hong Kong Disneyland gives his

sweet just to please people?” When

old favorites an element of sur-

you know to whom you’re selling to,

prise. He thinks that people feel

you can set the tone and direction of

pressured into creating something

your business.

they’ve never done before in a bid to be original, but that is risky. When pressed for time, innovating on the unknown can result in failure.

G e t yo ur i n s p i rat i o n from favorite foods and cater to a need that is not

Experiment with home-

being met | Mickey Wieneke’s To-

grown ingredients | Chef Has-

kyo Tempura came about because

set Go loves local products like co-

he loved Japanese. But he saw that

conut sugar, and uses these to come

most Japanese restaurants are too

up with smashing new concoctions.

expensive for the mass market, so

“We have little known fruits like the

the innovation was a Japanese cui-

marang which tastes like custard,

sine food cart.

and a hundred ways to innovate with coconut.” You don’t just promote our local produce; you’ll have sources in abundance.

Comfort food never dies | JJ says trends come and go, but the customers’ tastes will never change. We get influenced by the media and our peers, but at the end of the day, eaters always go back to what they know. “You’d love prime cut steaks with truffle foie gras sauce on the side, but at the end of the day a true Filipino will always go back to good old chicken/pork adobo.” — (LV)

comMtalk

PROSPECTS

BUSINESS TRAVEL:

The advent of the self-sustaining and creatively-driven Filipinos entrepreneurs and talents have given rise to bustling new communities with their own charm.

KEY CAPITALS TO SUCCESS

he burgeoning of homegrown businesses, and

the locals, creating employment opportunities for an

the expansion of national brands into the re-

emerging pool of young talents.

gional markets have given rise to the growth

In keeping with the trend of artistically-inclined

of metropolitan areas outside of the country’s capital.

and creatively-driven districts the world over, more

Regional hotspots such as Cebu, Davao and Pampanga

and more local cities have witnessed the emergence

have grown to be important regional areas for develop-

of small concentrations of funky and eclectic busi-

ment, and more and more locals are choosing to stay

nesses. Most of these areas are rife with a profusion

instead of venturing outside Metro Manila and abroad

of art galleries, specialty stores, cafés, bookstores and

to earn their keep. Those who choose to leave end up

restaurants. Young and young-at-heart alike trav-

finding a more vibrant and happening scene when they

el to new and exciting places that pop up with a few

come home for vacations or visits.

moment’s notice.

With the growth of businesses and the increasing self-sustainability of provincial metropolitan areas,

Let us look at what the up-and-coming hot cities of the Philippines have to offer:

business and commerce have emerged and steadily made growing hotspots for exciting communities with

Pampanga | Pampanga has always been a prov-

buzz-worthy specialty stores and shops. These stores

ince of diversity, among many other distinctions. It is

unleash the creativity and the enterprising potential of

branded as the culinary capital of the country, with its many food traditions giving life to Filipino cuisine as a whole. It is also home to most of the country’s military bases established in the American era, which gives the area a rich cultural heritage. The American bases used to fuel much of the province’s growth, leading to the sprawl of modernization and the increase in the area’s competitiveness. Pampanga has also evolved into a bustling center for commerce, travel, entertainment, leisure and lifestyle. With the emergence of the Clark Special Economic Zone (CSEZ) including the development of Clark International Airport and the Clark Freeport Zone, the province of Pampanga has enjoyed an upsurge of tourism, investments and interests from local and foreign tourists alike. Tagged as one of the “Best Places to live in the Philippines”, the city of Angeles is a bastion of opportunity and fresh possibilities. Angeles City’s location as a gateway to the north makes it a welcome respite from the long stretch of highway leading out of Metro Manila. Its exciting developments offer a vibrant mix of up-and-coming new addresses for residential, recreational and commercial prospects.

p h o t o g ra p hy La dy M ay Pam i n t ua n , L e y l a n T. r o marat e o f my c e bu P h oto B lo g a n d A i dx Par e d e s

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Cebu | With the Queen City of the South being the second largest and most populous metropolis in the country, it comes as no surprise that growth has exponentially increased in the past few decades, especially after the boom of the BPO sector and the establishment of regional headquarters for big national conglomerates. To cater to the growing crowd of young professionals and expatriates that occupy the city’s spanking new office buildings, conveniences such as restaurants, urban residential areas and shopping districts have sprung in Cebu Park District, embracing the philosophy of green and breathable spaces with tree-lined avenues and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks. More established commercial areas are situated along the city’s well-worn thoroughfares and center such as Osmeña Boulevard and IT Park. Aside from these commercial areas, developments in the outskirts of the city, such as the South Road Properties boast of 300-hectare reclaimed lands that are overflowing with potential for businesses and other new enterprises.

Makati Known as one of the most thriving cities in the country, Makati City continues to progress into a center of many facets that span across hospitality, entertainment and business. Makati had begun its development ever since its purchase by the Zobel de Ayala family in the 1800s. Since then, Makati’s growth has remained linked with the Zobel de Ayala family and their company, Ayala Corporation. Today, it stands as the financial center of the Philippines with the highest concentration of multinational and local corporations in the country.

Bonifacio Global City Davao | The largest city in Mindanao has soared skyward in the past several years as one of the country’s fastest growing cities. As one of the regional hubs for commerce and trade, as well as education and culture in Mindanao, Davao has seen unprecedented growth, especially in the development of new shopping areas, residential communities, tourism districts and

Formerly known as Fort McKinley, Bonfacio Global City (BGC) has transformed from a historical war zone into one of Metro Manila’s recreational districts. Since 2003, Ayala Land, Inc. and Evergreen Holdings, Inc. have collaborated to shape and develop BGC into the world-class business and residential center it is today. BGC is filled with integrated hotels and residences, shopping areas, and open spaces for outdoor even ts and activities, making it ideal for leisure and corporate investments given its accessible location and mixed-use scenery.

office centers. Davao’s residents flock to the Torres and Roxas districts, with its wide array of shops and businesses that cater to a variety of needs. Ecoland and the Davao Chinatown areas are a hotbed for established businesses, whereas the Abreeza district is an emerging hub for

ORTIGAS Located within the boundaries of Pasig, Mandaluyong and Quezon City, Ortigas is settled within the middle ground of Metro Manila. Home to diverse building complexes, shopping malls, and condominium skyscrapers, it’s an ideal location with easy access to the northern, eastern, and southern parts of Manila.

lifestyle and residential options. — (NC)

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PROSPECTS

Abreeza Place: INVEST IN A SHARED DREAM A genuine trademark of Ayala Land excellence, a signature product of Alveo innovation, and an exceptional testament to Davao’s growth. Abreeza Place puts you at the forefront of a new level of possibilities.

ll eyes are on Davao City. As the largest city in

know-how into Abreeza. The pioneering development

the Philippines, it is the fourth most populated,

that began in Makati, flourished in NUVALI, and innovat-

standing tall as the top economic and financial

ed in Bonifacio Global City has presented itself to Davao

hub in Mindanao.

City with the promise of prosperity.

Hailed as one of the fastest growing cities in the world,

Designed for the optimum experience of “live, work,

Davao City is the only Philippine entity among the Top

play” in an integrated and carefully masterplanned en-

100. With its abundance of rich, natural resources and

vironment, Abreeza is an ecosystem unto itself: holistic,

key travel destinations, this melting pot of ethnic and

sustainable, accessible. At the center of it all, this land-

contemporary living is a budding cultural capital soon to

mark district features Abreeza Residences and Abreeza

further make its mark on a global scale.

Place, signature condominium projects that showcase

Davao is also expected to set the bar in sustainability.

the best of modern urban living in Davao.

Deemed to be one of the cleanest regions in the country, Davao has major growth sectors that support its ecosys-

THE BEST OF LEISURE CONDO LIVING | Located

tems and its economy. The energy industry, along with

directly across Abreeza Mall, Abreeza Place, in par-

IT, agriculture, tourism, wholesale and retail trade are

ticular, has already successfully launched its second

named, to date, as among the primary economic drivers

residential tower.

of the region. Together, these top industries create a mo-

Designed to encapsulate the ideals of leisure condo

mentous junction in Davao’s history: a turning point as

living, Abreeza Place best complements the distinct

much as a meaningful promise for the future.

Davao lifestyle experience. Multiple tower amenities

It’s a place teeming with a distinctly new energy, a

offer fresh air and a chance to relax or get active and

burgeoning economy that grows stronger by the sea-

the choice can be easily made with a flip of a coin. The

son. With a total investment of Php10 billion in Davao

clubhouse, a selection of function rooms, and a multi-

City, Ayala seeks to factor prominently in its continuing

media and game room offer a venue to converge and

growth. And it is Abreeza that best represents this shared

engage, while the lounge areas, the gardens, and the

dream—an enduring mark of prestige upon the Davao

roof deck provide open spaces and scenery to kick back

landscape, and a signature bastion of modern living, as

in. In contrast, a fitness studio decked with a wide

it should be.

range of equipment stands as a hub of movement and energy. And with different types of pools, adults and

A MARK OF AYALA LAND EXCELLENCE | Abreeza is

tykes can lounge or lap, keeping the singe out of their

Davao’s premier lifestyle district, with four main compo-

summer right on home turf.

nents completing the ideal lifestyle experience: upscale

Abreeza Place exhibits an integrated and thoughtfully

shopping complex Abreeza Mall, boutique hotel Seda

curated mix of dynamic and laid back. Its singular fea-

Abreeza, and Abreeza Corporate Center

tures and vibrant living spaces make it an arbiter of mod-

, which func-

tions as a critical business hub of the city.

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ern taste as much as an idyllic urban haven. And with

Drawing from its stellar track record of raising mas-

everything that Davao City has to offer at arm’s length, it

terplanned communities on prime locations, Ayala Land

stands as the convergence of a distinct and forward-look-

wove its heritage, singular vision, and cutting-edge

ing way of life.

Artist’s perspectIve

01 Tower 2 Facade 02 Club House 03 Gym 04 Function Hall 02

05 one–bedroom unit

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PROSPECTS

PERSONAL INVESTMENTS: Making Worthwhile Decisions

Saving is good, but you can do better. Here are the basics you need to know about investing.

ne’s personal acumen for investment bank-

in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, money market

ing is often over rated. What’s more con-

instruments, and other financial instruments that will

cerning is that majority of Filipinos are not

grow the overall investment. Mutual funds are offered by

equipped with the proper knowledge to take care of

investment companies while UITFs are offered by banks.

their hard-earned savings.

As mutual funds are offered by investment compa-

When you are unsure about your investment and sav-

nies, you become a stockholder when you buy a mutual

ings strategy, the usual recourse is to do nothing. In fact,

fund share. You have the rights of a regular stockholder,

according to a recent Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)

including the right to vote and the right to receive divi-

survey, only one out of four Filipino households say that

dends. UITFs are bank instruments offered by banks, and

they have savings for that proverbial rainy day. Troubling

you’re buying investment units, not shares.

is the fact that this BSP survey found out that only 60

The price of a mutual fund share or a UITF unit is mea-

percent of this number actually deposit their savings in

sured by its current net asset value, or NAV. The NAV is

banks or in any kind of investment vehicle.

the value of the assets of the funds after all expenses and

It’s a no-brainer that everybody should at least make

liabilities are subtracted. The NAV is then divided by the

an effort to save some cash. Unexpected things can hap-

number of shares or units to get the net asset value per

pen and they often happen during inconvenient times.

share (or unit).

So first things first. Everybody should save. Cut back on some non-essentials to free up some cash.

There are several advantages that come with investing in these funds. These funds are managed by professionals who know what they’re doing, and managers whose

Mutual Funds vs. UITF: The Basics | Mutu-

daily concern is achieving the best possible returns to

al funds and Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITF) are

the fund and its investors. Mutual Funds are managed

excellent ways of preserving and growing your sav-

by a professional fund manager appointed by the invest-

ings. These funds are perfect for those who do not

ment company, while UITFs are managed by the bank’s

have the time or expertise in investing different types

Trust Group.

of investment vehicles.

Most offer a small necessary investment of less than

Mutual Funds and UITF’s are often spoken about to-

Php10,000. This low initial investment entitles you to be-

gether because they are very similar in nature. Basically,

come part of a much bigger fund, with diversified invest-

these funds are investment vehicles where other inves-

ments to minimize risks, managed by professionals.

tors, big and small alike, form a much bigger fund han-

Funds are highly liquid, meaning investors can re-

dled by professional fund managers. These managers

deem or liquidate their shares quickly. Coupled by their

have the expertise and experience to reinvest the fund

higher earnings potential, funds are also safe because of

i l l u st ra t i o n Dar l e n e S e g ura

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One of the most important advantages is the fact that these funds are managed by professionals who know what they’re doing

government regulations. Mutual funds are regulated by

Fortunately, information and past data about shared

the Securities and Exchange Commission, while UITFs

funds are easily available. A quick and painless trip to

are monitored by the Central Bank.

your banks would yield various literature on their avail-

Possibly the only disadvantage of investing in funds

able investment instruments, and their staff would be

are the fees charged by its proponents. An entry and

more than willing to answer any questions and concerns

exit fee is levied by mutual funds, while UITFs are

that you might have.

charged a management fee, which is a percentage of the invested amount.

The internet even has websites which report on local funds and their track record for the past few years. A word of warning though: some funds will boast of su-

Time to Choose | Now that you know the basics, it’s

perior annual returns for the past year, so check their

time to finally invest your hard-earned savings in a fund

average returns for the past three years, at least. You

that will help grow your money for future use. There is

want to choose funds with consistently above–average

literally a plethora of funds and UITFs available on our

returns, not some fund whose returns look like Richter

local market. How to choose? While it seems a daunting

scale charts.

endeavor, having a basic understanding of how these

Consi stent excel lence i s what you want. You

funds work will make choosing and deciding easier for

worked hard for your savings. Now it’s time to make it

the amateur investor.

work for you. — (DG)

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Spotting Good Accountants:

PROSPECTS

Allies of successful businesses Finding the right people will set the business at a better pace.

ost entrepreneurs possess a do-it-yourself attitude, but they know all too well that several facets of their business have to be outsourced

to a professional, and cutting corners to stretch funds may just do the business harm. A sound accounting practice, for one, may spell the difference between an enterprise’s success and its downfall. In her profession, financial adviser Mai Lopez has observed that “deciding whether to hire an accountant or do the accounting on your own is something entrepre-

EXPERIENCED IN DEALING WITH A DIVERSE SET OF

neurs struggle with almost all the time.”

CLIENTS | A good accountant is one who has handled

Many business owners feel they can keep track of their

several clients from a cross section of various industries,

own records, yet wrestle with finding time to do it. They

says Mai. “Working with people from different types

find out later that dealing with piles of paperwork is no

of businesses requires one to be flexible and to adapt

mean feat. It does not come as a surprise then that Mai,

to various needs of each kind. As a result, accountants

whose husband Dennis owns a construction and alumi-

with such extensive experience become trained and ex-

num supply company, advised her husband to get an ac-

perienced with the ins and outs of handling various led-

countant as soon as he started his business.

gers,” she elaborates.

Accountants are more than simple tax-preparers. “Their financial advice and guidance will help steer the business in the right direction,” says Mai, adding that good ones are able to evaluate the “health status” of an enterprise. Not to be mistaken for a bookkeeper, one who does the day-to-day, hands-on tasks of making sure the company files the correct paperworks and entries are recorded, an accountant analyzes the bigger picture in the financial situation. While spotting and hiring high caliber accountants may entail weeks of asking for referrals and meeting potential candidates, finding one that matches an entre-

ACCREDITED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EX-

preneur’s business and work ethics proves to be worth all

CHANGE COMMISSION (SEC) | With globalization and

the effort.

the Asian free trade, businesses who want to grow and ex-

While one of the most basic requirements for an ac-

pand their operations in the years to come should get an ac-

countant is to have good, working know-how of man-

credited accountant. “It is safer to trust someone who has

aging books and accounting for money movement, en-

an SEC certification than someone who has not. Integrity is

trepreneurs are also advised to be keen in looking for

always an important quality to look for when hiring some-

the following:

one to do a job,” explains the financial adviser.

i l l u st ra t i o n i s ra e l c o n t r e ra s

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DISPLAYS TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS | While it is

KNOWLEDGEABLE IN TAX EXEMPTIONS | Any pro-

widely acceptable that an accountant manages five to

prietor would appreciate getting the maximum allow-

ten businesses all at the same time, the person should be

able tax exception for the business; a good accountant

able to complete tasks in a given time frame. This is espe-

must be able to present this without violating any law.

cially critical for months when forms from the Bureau of

Entrepreneurs are advised to look for accountants who

Internal Revenue (BIR) need to be filed and fees are to be

are great learners, with years of experience under their

paid. How can an entrepreneur spot if a candidate is dis-

belt and those with a deep understanding of the indus-

ciplined with time? Punctuality during initial meetings

try the business is in.

is the litmus test for it.

While these are tall orders for an accounting candidate, being a “people person”, says Anna Villa-Real, owner of a laundry shop, is paramount. Due to her very bad experience dealing with an accountant for her business, Anna underscores that traits far exceed skills. An accountant should see an enterprise beyond his or her “retainer fee”. Anna somewhat started her business on the wrong foot, with a liaising accountant indifferent to her business needs. “I am a simple entrepreneur who simply wanted to pursue a business. Because the accountant I was working with was nowhere to be OBJECTIVITY | A good accountant must be able to tell

reached, I ended up incurring a lot of penalties. I was op-

the entrepreneur what the real state of the business is

erating practically without a permit,” she laments. Her

from his own point of view without sugar-coating the

business has slowly taken off, and while she feels she

facts. Mai sees this quite often, “Sometimes when the

does not need an accountant for now as her shop only

business owner and the accountant are friends, the latter

needs simple bookkeeping, she makes extra warning to

tends to be subjective and fails to see the bigger picture of

look for passionate accountants. “They should be as in-

the state of the business.” While spotting objective ones

volved and as committed to the business as the owner.”

can be tricky, owners are advised to veer from sweet talk-

While hiring an accountant may put a dent on the op-

ers who fail to ask about the current state of the business.

erating expense of the business, it pays to invest. “You

“An entrepreneur needs a financial consultant, not a bud-

pay for competency and integrity,” says Mai, “With the

dy,” she stresses.

right accountant, your businesses will grow.” — (TMG)

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| P R O J E C T: F O C U S

Alviera: Propelling potential in central luzon

Ayala Land taps into the underlying potential of Porac, Pampanga with an upcoming mixed-use community set to rise as a major hub in Central Luzon.

Over the decades, Ayala Land, Inc (ALI) has built its reputation of being the Philippines’ leading real estate developer, and as a strong partner in nation building. Its signature developments have not only contributed towards the growth of our country’s economy, but also the progressive lifestyle that adds to our quality of living. Today, ALI propels the city of Porac though Alviera, a 1,100-hectare designed community in Pampanga. In collaboration with Leonio Land, this upcoming project will catapult this first class municipality to become a focused growth center for business and leisure in Central Luzon. “With ALI’s rich legacy in developing integrated

largest university, will be serving all educational levels

mixed-use communities, Porac will be transformed into

and will have open facilities for recreational activities.

a masterplanned township unlike any other in the prov-

This will be operational within seven years. Miriam Col-

ince and in the whole of Central Luzon. Makati, NUVALI

lege, located within Quezon City and recently in Nuvali,

in Laguna, and Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, all stand

will be exploring a variety of college programs and is set

as a testament to the kind of development the region

to have full coverage in Luzon with a third of its location

can expect from Alviera,” says Meean Dy, Vice President

in Alviera. Both of these schools will offer programs be-

and Strategic Landbank Management Group head of

tween primary, secondary and higher education.

Ayala Land. The development’s strategic location conveniently gives residents a seamless accessibility via NLEX,

ational venues through the Alviera Country Club. This

TPLEX and SCTEX. Alviera is five minutes away from

will be built on a high elevated area about six hectares

Clark Airport, and is within close proximity to Subic

in size complete with swimming pools, sports facilities,

Freeport, Angeles City and San Fernando City. It is also

spa and sauna, function halls and restaurants that will

an hour’s drive away from Quezon City.

offer scenic views of the Porac Mountain Range and the

Porac is envisioned to become a major hub for modern living, providing possible venues for those who seek a venue that blends urban development with nature.

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Aside from educational facilities, Alviera focuses towards providing leisurely settings that can act as recre-

future Alviera Town Center. Another key component towards Alviera’s development will be the Alveria Industrial Park. This division will

The Alviera community is anticipated to have over

be covering 30 hectares and offer locators the oppor-

20,000 offices, 65,000 residents and 20,000 students

tunity to purchase, and not just lease, industrial lots for

over the course of its development.

potential investments.

Educational facilities are one of the major compo-

“These lots are differentiated from most other in-

nents of Alviera as it will have two key schools within

dustrial zones by the fact that locators are not limited

the community. The Holy Angel University, Pampanga’s

to leasing the lots. They can own them. We will give

Artist’s perspectIve

01 Aerial View

02 Poolside Veranda

03 Reflecting Pool walkway

preference to buyers with immediate development

economic centers in their respective regions. These

plans to help create job opportunities in the near fu-

growth centers serve as platforms for Ayala Land’s vari-

ture,” says Ms. Dy.

ous product offerings, integrating into thriving commu-

All three ALI residential brands: Ayala Land Premier,

nities that generate value over time,” adds Ms. Dy.

Alveo Land, and Avida Land will be developing commu-

ALI has established many northern developments

nities that will cater to a wide range market. Commercial

such as Marquee in Angeles, Pampanga, Harbor Point

establishments such as malls, office buildings, hotels,

in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Vertis North in Quezon

hospitals, transport terminals and parks will also later

City, and Altaraza in San Jose Monte, Bulacan. All of these

be added.

projects point out to ALI’s vision of northern growth.

“We are known for large-scale, masterplanned, mixeduse and sustainable communities that become thriving

With Alviera, ALI and Leonio Land will bring an enhanced quality of living for even more people. — (AH)

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Creative Entrepreneurships

Business goes beyond borders when passion and creativity enter the scene. From cultural hubs to life窶田hanging careers, these local establishments and entrepreneurs share their stories on starting up a business, and how it can inspire and build a sense of community.

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Alchemy Flavors to Love

Regular flavors • Salted Caramel | A sweet salty contrast of caramel filling with a pinch of salt • Peanut Caramel | Caramel filling mixed with a nutty tinge of peanut paste • Chai Spice | A rich buttercream flavor matched with earthy tones of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom and clove • Banana | A refreshingly sweet and complementary blend of banana and buttercream

Premium flavors

• Green Tea | Rich white chocolate ganache meld with premium Japanese matcha • Coffee | A strong and aromatic coffee flavor blended perfectly with creamy white chocolate • Raspberry | Tangy raspberry sweetness balanced with vanilla notes of white chocolate • Passion Fruit | Zesty citrus and fragrant passion fruit meld with caramel tones of milk chocolate • Dark Chocolate | Subtle, smooth and refined dark chocolate ganache • Mint Chocolate | A soothing peppermint flavor combined with dark chocolate ganache

Best sellers: • Salted caramel • Dark chocolate • Green Tea

Unique flavors: • Chai spice • Raspberry • Passion fruit For special orders, call 0917 896 3795 or email alchemybakingmagic@gmail.com.

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Decadent, scrumptious treats laid out for the lavish gourmet. Bouchon, Cannele, or a classic sandy cookie the French call Chocolate Sable, each one is distinct and lovely in unique ways.

creative entreprene u rship

ALCHEMY:

Branding her creations as “Alchemy,” her French pastries are divine treats of subtlety. Turning simple ingredients into elements of delight, Candice Go whips up joy, nostalgia and mystique.

Sweetened Gold, Elixir of life

widdling her thumbs, the coy Candice Go displays

Taming your mood swings through sweets, Alchemy offers

as much sweetness as what goes into her pastries.

macarons, truffles and cookies made fresh per order. You may

No overwhelming punches or kicks, her dessert

also opt for the dessert bar, which offers 11 different items. Choose two or more from Alchemy’s collection and indulge your

recipes are just proudly delicate. “I believe we put our stamp of magic in our flavors.

palette. Mangeons! — (MDV)

There’s an ‘oomph’ factor without the overpowering sense of richness.” As baking involves serious science and stern calculations, one tiny mistake can ruin everything. But this fact

V i s it w w w.fa c eb o o k . c o m / a l c h e m yb a k i n g m a g i c f o r more information.

didn’t really dishearten Candice, who chose to go the French route. Authentic French pastries aren’t only hard to find but very difficult to make, so the rarity, the toiling, and the techniques involved inspired Candice to get a slice of it. “Pastry is not just all frou frou with icing. It’s science, skill, and art combined. I chose to specialize in French pastries because you get so focused and in tune with your movement, the equipment and the product.” Challenges during a pursuit are not excuses to stop. They are indicators and suggestions for one to begin learning more, to train until they come closest to perfection. So as Santiago embarked to Africa, Candice headed to Singapore to earn her diploma at At-Sunrice Global Chef Academy. “It was a 17-month diploma course on Pastry and Baking Arts. We had apprenticeship simultaneously with school, so in a week, we’d be in school for two days and at our apprenticeship site for four days; then we had one day off to ourselves. It was such an enriching experience for me. Pastry school was awesome! It was such a joy working with the best ingredients and the most inspiring chef instructors. I think the class I enjoyed the most was the one on Confectionery—it was like reliving Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, except with sugar.” It’s an enduring passion and a sweet addictive relationship with sugar. “If you’re up for long days, sleepless nights and random panic attacks, you’ll reap rewarding comments, loyal clients and complete and utter fulfillment.”

p h o t o g ra p hy C Hr i s yu h i c o

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creative

INDEPENDENT COFFEE:

entreprene u rship

A uniquely pinoy caffeine blend Starbucks may be king, but artisanal café owners are slowly but surely capturing the market with its evolving taste and sense for gastronomic adventures.

t definitely didn’t happen overnight. In fact, it has

table. The beverages, unlike others, are also a little bit

been brewing for decades. The culture of coffee

more gourmet.

drinking—that desire to spike up conversations

Yardstick Coffee is just one of a handful of cafes

with cups and cups of coffee, and a social gathering

sprouting across Metro Manila, a part of that rising

with caffeine-based beverages as stimulant—may not

third wave of independently-owned coffee shops in the

exactly be new, but it’s something that Filipinos have

city. The existence of these artisanal cafes is of course

learned to love in recent years. As a matter of fact, they

due to the growing number of coffee drinkers.

are more than willing to spend for the pricey beverages on a regular basis.

“They are more open-minded,” says Yardstick’s Andre Chanco. “And they are willing to spend a bit more

Blame it on the ‘90s kids, a decade where a new gen-

(for their coffee).” As young Filipino professionals be-

eration of Filipino coffee drinkers were initiated to the

come well-travelled, their palates become more and

club. Coffee culture was on the rise in the U.S. and im-

more sophisticated as well. “If anything food or bever-

ages of these caffeine blends and cool, comfy coffee

age related tastes better than what they are used to, I

shops captured the imagination of many young Filipi-

think they will be convinced,” says Chanco. “They will

nos. When Starbucks arrived in the Philippines in 1997,

keep looking for better products.”

the message became even clearer not just for local cafes, but for other similar businesses: it was game on.

‘Specialty coffee will always be a niche’ |

Now, a quick stroll around Makati and one will in-

Despite facing tough competition from international

stantly spot several Starbucks and Seattle’s Best, both

coffee companies, Chanco is quick to note that it is not

of which have become ubiquitous, a few CBTL in be-

a matter of big business versus small ones. “Specialty

tween, and some curiously small, undeniably hip coffee

coffee will always be a niche,” he says. “It’s more about

shops which are surprisingly homegrown. In fact, if you

the quality of the beverage than the quantity (being

happen to walk along Esteban Street in Legaspi Village,

sold).” Each cup, he notes, bears a specific taste that can

you can easily spot one.

only be found in Yardstick Coffee.

Yardstick Coffee is a local cafe with a flavor and

Legaspi, one of the cafe’s seasonal espresso blends,

a design all of its own. The space is airy, not stuffy. No

boasts of dark cocoa, roasted almond, Brazil Cerrado,

one is screaming for patrons to claim their Macchia-

and Indonesia Tobing Estate. One can’t get more culi-

to at the counter and instead coffees are served at the

nary than that. “We are here to improve the standards in terms of how it is served, roasted, sourced and prepared so customers can enjoy a different kind of cof-

Perhaps what separates these independent local coffee shops from their big foreign counterparts are their signature blends and designs.

fee,” he says. Perhaps it’s what separates these independent local coffee shops from their big foreign counterparts. With signature blends and designs, these are what make them flourish. They aim to provide something unique and to an extent, a new kind of experience. In fact, more often than not, their interiors are even crafted

p h o t o g ra p hy C h r i s yu h i c o

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based on the owner’s specific taste and aesthetic. As

Coffee community | While the coffee culture in oth-

cafés begin to multiply within Metro Manila, one can-

er parts of the globe has evolved into something more

not help but notice that aside from Makati, local and in-

similar to fast food (they prefer their coffee to-go), the

dependent coffee shops are beginning to brew within

quintessential Filipino coffee shop remains at best a

the quaint northern district. A good example of this is

comfy place where people can shoot the breeze. Yard-

Craft Coffee Revolution located at the far end

stick Coffee, Craft Coffee Revolution, Fleur de Lys, Pas-

of Broadway Avenue, and next door to Big Sky Mind in

try Passion, and other local cafes may have their own

Quezon City. The cafe’s vibe is somewhat bohemian and

distinct flavors and personalized spaces, but the under-

appears to be more of a watering hole than an actual

lying similarities can’t be denied: these are spaces that

cafe, with its Americana pieces and antiques mixing in-

encourage a sense of community.

side its slightly dark interior. Still, the design doesn’t in

“Filipinos love to hang out,” observes Chanco, “and I

any way overshadow their coffee, which are mostly no-

think that’s what we are offering. I hate the word neigh-

frills, down-to-earth concoctions. The items are also

borhood café, but it’s transforming into something

very specific, which is why the menu comes in a small

like that. Without the people or the community cul-

piece of cardboard paper.

ture that exist around Yardstick, we wouldn’t be what

Just a few minutes away from Craft, Fleur de Lys

we are now.”

is mostly known for its creamy cakes and pastries, but

Indeed, if there is anything that Filipinos love to pair

also offers delicious coffee blends. Another cafe that

their delicious brew with, (other than the pandesal of

serves mouth-watering pastries and coffee is Pastry

course) it’s having those equally warm conversations

Passion in West Avenue, next door to the famous ci-

every now and then. — (MB)

nephile mecca, Video 48.

comMtalk

creative entreprene u rship

STATE OF THE ART: ESCOLTA FEATURING 98B

Along the nostalgic streets of Escolta is a place where artists and art aficionados from all walks of life come together to experience culture, vision, and a sense of community – this is 98B.

nown to be the ‘collaboratory’ of Escolta, 98B mar-

of building owners with several properties in Escolta.

ries a wide array of multi-disciplinary arts and

Since most of the businesses around Escolta have trans-

cultivates them into various means of promoting

ferred to the districts of Makati and Quezon City, Mark

and keeping our very own local creativity alive. The cre-

and Mayumi presented their idea to the ECAI, and not

ative space was conceptualized in 2012, when a Filipino

long after did they begin to venture into Manila’s nos-

artist, Mark Salvatus, met a Japanese curator, Mayumi

talgic streets. Whether it was the intricate buildings or

Hirano. Mark invited Mayumi to visit the Philippines as

the historical vibe it gave, there is a certain charm to Es-

their love for the arts progressively brought them togeth-

colta that can’t be found anywhere else. After strolling

er. They set out to conceptualize a space for creatives to

around the area, Mark and Mayumi stumbled upon the

gather, and design ways to foster local art communities

First United Building and named the space after their

without boundaries.

apartment, “98B”.

Initially, the venue started at Mark’s apartment in Cu-

Since then, there had been a series of activities all cu-

bao. The creative process was simple. Everyone would

rated to draw in the curious, the imaginative, and the

gather at the apartment, have a cookout, and converse

inspired. Although the 98B apartment in Cubao con-

about the possibilities and ideas that can be explored.

tinues to host their vintage sales called the “Saturday

Eventually as time passed, connections started broad-

Market”, more and more events are accommodated by

ening. Friend and 98B co-founder, Marika Constantino,

the current 98B as networks of artists and creatives be-

introduced Mark and Mayumi to the Escolta Commer-

gin to extend far and wide. From various talks by local

cial Associations Inc. (ECAI), which is a union composed

and international artists, there’s another weekend sale called the “Future Market”, which presents independent

Whether it was the intricate buildings or the historical vibe it gave, there is a certain charm to Escolta that couldn’t be found anywhere else.

labels an opportunity to showcase their line of sustainable products and merchandise. This is what 98B offers to people and to Escolta for the years to come. It will and always be an innovative space to connect people who aspire for change, and embrace local culture and colorful experiences in the art world. — (AH)

p hot o g ra p hy k e r v i n l o p e z & C arm e l l e M o n ta n o

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taken at the first united building during the saturday market

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creative

MUNI: A Collaborative

entreprene u rship

Community for Mindful Living

Coming from the Filipino word “muni-muni” or “to think, ponder, muse, or reflect,” a creative and passionate community aims to create a “culture of caring.”

“

an we collaborate to make a greener, happier, healthier, and more sustainable world a reality?”

“The message we want to share is better sent across – it’s about time that people in both rural and urban areas be-

Jen Horn, the Chief Collaborator of Muni, asks

come mindful of what they consume, how they consume,

herself this question in every new endeavor. And each

and what they can do for the environment that provides

time, Muni’s growing community of conscious entrepre-

for them,” shared Jen Aquino of Lotus Pod, an organic farm

neurs, writers, designers, environmentalists, advocates,

in Laguna.

echoes with a resounding yes.

One of Muni’s main thrusts is to foster a sense of community and a support network to learn from and grow to-

The Growing Community | Since its inception in

gether in a life of mindfulness, more than just providing

November 2012, Muni has been organically growing the

socially and environmentally–conscious merchants an

mindfulness movement with new ways of understanding

avenue to sell. And with more and more people choos-

wellness and sustainability.

ing to be more purposeful in thought and action, Muni

Shares Horn, “We want to make a better way of living

continues to help members of the community move to-

by presenting people with alternative options for how they

wards a happier, healthier self for ultimately – a happier,

shop, eat, travel, work and play each and every day.”

healthier planet.

Muni is all about encouraging people to care more about how they impact their community and the planet. “Muni Market Day, and Muni events in general, help us connect with like-minded people who want to reduce their nega-

For more information, contact events.muni@gmail.com or

tive impact to the environment,” said Carl Mamawal, CEO

log on to www.muni.com.ph/munimarketday, or apply to be a

of Nyfti, a brand of proudly Philippine-made folding bicy-

merchant by sending an email to merchants.muni@gmail.com

cles, which was funded by Manny V. Pangilinan through

or filling out the online merchant application at www.muni.com.

the Ideaspace incubation program.

ph/beamerchant.

01 MUNI MEETUP LAST JUNE 02 mUNI’S CHIEF COLLABORATOR JEN HORN 03 ORGANIC PRODUCE FROM LOTUS POD 04 Ryan Aguas and Enzo Pinga of Bahay Kubo Organics

p h o t o g ra p hy mu n i

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creative advert o rial

Energizing the live-work-play nexus

n top of a continuously strong Business Process

US$80 million) or 4 percent to Ayala Land’s 2013 reve-

Outsourcing (BPO) industry, growth in man-

nues, the take-up value for Alveo office projects was

ufacturing, exports, and tourism have been

Php7.2 billion in the same year.

driving the Philippine business scene. Moody’s has cited

Anchored on Ayala Land’s expertise in building com-

the Philippines as a top performer and one of the world’s

munities and inspired by its commitment to innovation,

fastest growing economies in 2014. With investor con-

Alveo Land ventured into the planning and development

fidence at a high and the central bank working to keep

of its own large-scale, mixed-use districts. Alveo caters

key interest rates low, both public and private invest-

to the market of investors and business owners in the

ments are driving the economy forward. Real estate val-

country’s key central business districts where econom-

ues are also relatively lower in the Philippines compared

ic activity is on the rise. They first tested the market in

to neighboring countries, thus yielding better return on

Bonifacio Global City (BGC) with High Street South Cor-

investments and fueling a huge influx of investors.

porate Plaza, proving the high demand and potential in

As the business economy improves (further propelled

the development of innovative office products. Beyond

by higher consumer spending and the influx of foreign

BGC, Alveo also has office developments rising in Cebu,

investments boosted by a triple upgrade in credit rat-

with BPI Cebu Corporate Center, and soon in Makati,

ing), the speed, range and growth of economic activities

cornering the market on a “headquarters-type” of office

have significantly increased. The Philippines remains

product to address the unique needs of expanding small

the preferred destination for the estimated $18-billion

and medium enterprises and foreign businesses.

BPO industry, which is currently the major driver of de-

100 comMtalk

mand for office space. However, various other local or

Integration Safeguards Investments | Alveo

regional enterprises have also been expanding.

prides itself in offering workspaces with experienced

Riding this swell of economic optimism, acclaimed

and reliable facilities management teams, and an envi-

developer Ayala Land continues to redefine the real es-

ronment that promotes efficiency and productivity, en-

tate industry in the country with a solid track record for

hancing employee satisfaction. Locating these offices in

building and maintaining thoughtfully-planned, sus-

integrated, mixed-use economic centers provides lead-

tainable, and self-contained large-scale communities

ing local and multinational companies with world-class

and districts. Having already established its leadership

facilities in strategic and accessible locations.

in the residential market, Ayala Land is now tapping

Since Alveo Land’s products are all located within

the innovative ideas of its upmarket brand Alveo Land

Ayala Land’s mixed-use master-planned estates, this

to blaze a trail in the even more dynamic office sector.

allows them to guarantee the overall quality of the ex-

The rising demand and continuing dearth of deliberate

perience for their customers. “Our developments have

office-for-sale products in the Philippines, presented an

more value given that we control how the development

opportunity for Alveo Land to address a need.

grows, the maintenance and upkeep of the estate and

“Alveo Land saw the high potential of developing and

how all our projects are seamlessly integrated into the

selling office condominium spaces,” says Robert S. Lao,

bigger concept because we are strategically connected

Alveo president. “Everyone else was mostly leasing of-

to the main district,” explains Lao. “The potential in

fice spaces out to the market. As innovators, we filled

value appreciation is higher because we ensure that the

in that gap and it changed the game for the industry.”

investment is protected, being located within a well-

While office space leasing contributed Php3.5 billion (or

planned and controlled environment.”

Artist’s Perspective Aerial shot of Circuit Makati

Fresh Energy For A Future City | Alveo Land is

Coming from the successful Philippine and South-

also playing a central role in one of Ayala Land’s most ex-

east Asian launches of the Solstice towers in 2013, Al-

citing flagship projects, the redevelopment of the old Sta.

veo’s soon-to-be-unveiled office development will serve

Ana Racetrack into Circuit Makati. This cutting-edge life-

as a prominent gateway to Circuit Makati, conveniently

style and entertainment district is envisioned to serve as a

and strategically located next to the lifestyle and com-

catalyst for a next wave urban renewal in the Philippines’

mercial hubs of the district. When completed, this new

leading business and lifestyle capital of Makati City. Repre-

office address particularly aims to attract investors and

senting Php20 billion of Ayala Land’s ambitious Php60 bil-

small to medium enterprises who are looking for highly

lion investment in the city’s redevelopment, Circuit Maka-

energized workspaces. The modern, progressive environ-

ti is set to be the future premier location for celebrating

ments it will offer are designed to be less structured and

cultural and civic gatherings, world-class entertainment

constricting, thus encouraging the creativity and inno-

and events, and stylish retail experiences. It will bring to-

vative thinking of business ventures and organizations

gether Ayala Land’s various product lines for commercial

on the rise.

spaces, leasable offices, leisure accommodations, with its

“Circuit Makati is special in the sense that it provides

upscale residential addresses and saleable office products

the last opportunity to expand and further enhance the

spearheaded by Alveo Land. All of this will be integrated

country’s already well-established and thriving premier

within a 21-hectare property that will soon be character-

business district that is Makati,” states Lao. However,

ized by a truly large-scale, mixed-use community with

building on the legacy of their past successes, and the

live-work-play in equal measures that will be uniquely

inspiration provided by the unique setting and strat-

highlighted by Ayala Land’s high standards for quality and

egy, Alveo’s latest projects are poised to raise the bar

excellent customer service.

even higher.

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101

E ntreprene u rial

From EMPLOYEE TO ENTREPRENEUR:

I nspirati o n

Individual stories that embody the success of pursuing your true passion.

RJ LEDESMA is one of this generation’s most successful young men. Right after college, he got his dream job working at Procter & Gamble; but his desire to take up graduate studies in the U.S. led to his resignation, just Lettering artist ALEXIS DIANNE VENTURA graduated

to make it to the Harvard Business School interview.

with a BS Management Honors course from Ateneo. “It’s

Devastated when he didn’t get in, RJ tried helping out

a business course geared specifically towards entrepre-

in his family’s real estate business, did some TV work,

neurship,” she explains. “I didn’t take up art subjects so I

and took graduate school classes in La Salle. He then

really am learning something new each day.”

discovered and applied for a program that taught real

She says she didn’t have any specific plans in mind while she was growing up, although she always wanted

estate development, and got accepted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

to create jobs and handle a business. It was during her

A year later, he returned to the Philippines and

three-year stint in L’ Oreal when she discovered calligra-

helped his dad with their business while setting out to

phy as a hobby. “It took me about half a year to jump and

produce his own TV show. He then began writing a regular column for The Manila Times, then for The Philip-

focus on Ink Scribbler full time.” Before she decided to do so, however, Alexis tested the business potential by accepting projects on the side

pine Star. To date, he has already published five bestselling books based on his columns.

and creating a website to showcase her works. Now, this

Not one to rest on his laurels, the multitasking ce-

25 year-old is happily doing digital designs and hand-

lebrity dad of two is kept busy editing a men’s lifestyle

written works for events, especially for weddings. “I also

magazine, managing night food markets, doing hosting

create wall murals and hold calligraphy workshops,”

jobs for various events, taping TV shows, and being a

she describes.

lay minister in Santuario de San Antonio Parish.

Alexis shares that her greatest joys in doing this kind

Despite his fast-paced life, RJ says he makes sure to

of job is having “an opportunity to create something of

spend quality time with his wife and kids. He expresses

my own, learn new things from each project, meet dif-

how happy he is being a family man while also growing

ferent people, and handle my time.”

his various business ventures.

i l l u st ra t i o n s IS R A EL C ONT R E R A S

102 comMtalk

eaving a stable job that provides a regular salary isn’t easy. Yet, there are still people who find that they couldn’t be content with working for someone else.

Here, we share profiles of four inspiring individuals who left the corporate world and courageously leaped to pursue their true passions.

ATTY. MARINA DEMETERIO took her oath as a lawyer in April 2001 two weeks after the release of the bar exam results. She was twenty-seven years old at the time and started as a general litigation lawyer in the firm of Sixto

MICHELLE ASENCE-FONTELERA was enamored of

Brillantes, Jr., the incumbent Chairman of the Commis-

scents and perfumes even as a young child. But before

sion on Elections.

she got to follow her dream of having a business involv-

“I was asked to join the Office of the Chief Presidential

ing fragrances, she first worked in her family’s fastfood

Legal Counsel (CPLC) during the Arroyo administration,

venture and became a merchandiser for Cinderella and

then at the Office of the Ombudsman in 2005 as Assis-

Maldita for three years after getting her AB Psychology

tant Special Prosecutor III,” recalls Marina.

degree from De La Salle University.

In 2009, she decided to leave her full time job to pur-

“Like everybody else, I wanted to have all the things

sue a passion—her love for baking. Although she has

I need and want, and provide a better life for my fami-

already been selling desserts from her home since the

ly,” she reveals. Armed with her mom’s graduation cash

‘90s, it was only in 2010 when Marina and some friends

gift, Michelle hired a chemist to teach her how to for-

opened Café Monsee’s on Katipunan Ext. Quezon City. “I

mulate personal care products and started mixing in-

dream for it to be the best gourmet and artisan bakery

gredients in their kitchen every night.

this side of Metro Manila,” she confides.

“I wanted to give Filipinos high quality items that

In 2013, the group also opened Harina Artisan Bakery

they can afford,” she pledged and priced her products

Café and offered an all-day breakfast fare capitalizing

half to a fifth of the prices of foreign brands. Since

on the core product of Harina, which is bread. At the mo-

she began Zen Zest in 2001, the brand has exponen-

ment, Marina keeps busy introducing a purely vegetari-

tially grown into a well-known Filipino company that

an menu for their café’s Meatless Mondays.

offers a complete range of fragrance, home, and body

She admits that health concerns pushed her to a plant

care items.

–based diet and would like other people to consider get-

Even if she wasn’t given a big starting capital, the

ting into it, too, even for just one day a week. “It goes

creative and determined entrepreneur knew, “I would

beyond the healthy and personal benefits. Introducing

have worked and I would have saved then started with

vegetarianism is part of that bigger advocacy that links

something smaller. I believe that if you want something

eating vegetables with environmental concerns.”

bad enough, you’d do everything to get it.” — (RMF)

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INSPIRE EVERY DAY WITH

CREATIVITY An alluring panorama of cosmopolitan delights awaits you at the Lerato. Brilliantly curated for upwardly mobile urban achievers, The Lerato will rise as an artistic refuge where individuals can hone their potential and explore the depths of their passions. Expertly crafted to provide room for artistic drive, The Lerato’s three-tower mixeduse development is masterplanned and carefully designed to be a vision of inspired city living. A place that cultivates your every lifestyle pursuit in Makati’s emerging creative hub. Discover an indulging realm filled with music, soul and culture. At The Lerato, Alveo Land provides the blueprint for a dynamic, inspired and creative way of life.

(632) 848.5100 | www.alveoland.com.ph Visit our model units at LIFESCAPES by ALVEO G/L Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati City HLURB LICENSE TO SELL NUMBER: TOWER ONE – 25700; TOWER TWO – 26139; TOWER THREE - 26961 RUFINO HERMANN S. GUTIERREZ PRC-REBL NO. 0004771

LIFE + STYLE

Invest in life and style. Make room for quality living by setting the balance between personal and professional investments. Curate your daily regimes with a personal touch, and relish in lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simple pleasures.

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105

CRISP on 28th:

L ife + S t y le

Your Little Secret at BGC

From the owners of Hatch 22 and Pink Panda comes a new breed café nestled within the quiet vicinity of ALVEO Corporate Center.

veryone knows how Bonifacio Global City has

Crisp on 28th offers a serene venue where customers could

grown into a hip place for people to kick back, relax,

have easy conversations and spend long quiet afternoons,

and enjoy. Today, with all of its trendy shops, bus-

complemented by good food and a strong coffee pro-

tling clubs, and flamboyant restaurants, a little café dis-

gram. The café becomes a cove of comfort where people

creetly settled within the quiet streets of Bonifacio Global

could migrate to, away from the increasing traffic and

City opens to customers who seek leisure time amid a qui-

noise in BGC.

et city scenery.

The café welcomes customers with an open court-

Crisp on 28th is an all-day cafe concept that focuses on

yard offering multiple outdoor seating partially hidden

simple and interesting food inspired by different cuisines

by a wrought iron gate and upsized umbrellas. Inside the

that are familiar and tasty. It is the sister restaurant of

restaurant, details such as the black and white patterns

Hatch 22, backed by the same team of Chef Peter Ayson

and wooden furnishings stand out among other design

and Erwan Heussaff.

elements in play. The café also serves their food with care-

A secret place tucked away in the quiet streets of

ful attention, each dish beautifully plated with accentu-

Bonifacio Global City, the café is known for their sundry

ated details that give a sense of character. Customers can

specialties like tinapa and quinoa salad, bacon and egg

also find a blackboard highlighting Crisp on 28th specials,

soufflé, calamansi cake and flourless fudge cake.

where the café cooks up something new every week.

With hearty all-day breakfast fares such as Filipi-

Crisp on 28th can also be a cool place to settle down for

no-leaning ingredients like longganisa and adobo, the

a relaxing evening. The café offers a selective cocktail and

menu is comprised of café food options while leaving

wine menu for enjoying nice cool nights in the courtyard.

room for heftier dishes and a wide pastry menu to hit

During the weekends, customers can tune in to open jazz

the sweet spots.

sessions and experience street art exhibitions.

“The word Crisp evokes a sense of freshness, effortless cool, taste, novelty. ”

With a lot of comparisons towards its sister restaurants, the mothership group focused on creating single

Marketing Manager Monique Monasterio shares, “we

and individualistic concepts for each restaurant and café.

choose dishes that we know will touch the hearts of our

“Pink Panda is a South East Asia street diner. Hatch 22

guests as well as satisfy their appetites. We do this because

is an all-day bakery + café. It may still be a cafe under the

we want to serve comfort food and continental dishes

same group, but it differs in term of location, food, and

that use fresh ingredients. We also include Asian dishes

character. You could say Crisp is the little brother of Hatch,

in our menu such as Mmmbop, which is Korean bibimbap,

smaller, hidden away, quirky, and very curated. We don’t

and longganisa banh mi, a fusion between Filipino and

believe that one concept fits all, which is why when we saw

Vietnamese specialities.”

the space, we knew we wanted to create Crisp.” — (AH)

Settled between One Parkade and the Active Fun Building in the new ALVEO Corporate Center, customers of Crisp on 28th can easily park across Terra 28th in between

Crisp is located on the ground floor of ALVEO Corporate Center,

8th and 9th Avenues. As most restaurants within the area

28th Street between 6th and 7th Avenue, BGC, Taguig. Open daily

linger towards a more happening and vibrant scenery,

from 8am to 11pm. Call 0917 584 6883 for inquiries.

p h o t o g ra p hy c h r i s yu h i c o

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01 02

03 04

07 05

06 01 The crisp ON 28th wall 02 Banana squash cake 03 hanger steak 04 calamansi cake 05 Salmon and cheese open toast 06 pineapple and basil juice, cucumber, apple and mint juice 07 papaya kamias salad 08

08 crisp interior

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L ife + S t y le

THE HIDDEN GEM:

GUSTARE Gustare cooks up an undeniable and palatable dining experience with an array of diverse cuisines curated into a full course. This is their story.

photography JELITO DE LEON

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L i f e + S t y l e â&#x20AC;˘ e n t e rta i n i ng

The GUSTARE Invitees: Visionary Guests Diverse personalities fill the table. These individuals embody the Gustare philosophy of exploring different perspectives executed in good taste.

photography JELITO DE LEON

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01. JJ Yulo | Founding member and chef of Pinoy Eats

her last six months studying and designing in the United

World, JJ Yulo creates new perspectives for food culture

Kingdom. After her recent graduation from the Imperi-

in ways that are educational and entertaining. Aside

al College of London, she is currently teaching biology at

from touring and exchanging ideas with other aspiring

Beacon Academy, working on family projects and travel-

food aficionados, JJ is always on the lookout for the next

ling the Philippines.

contemporary twist in Filipino cuisine, while integrating good food and good company.

07. Stephan Duhesme | Having studied all over the world, French Filipino Stephan is a recent graduate of

02.

Marlon Rivera | A copywriter by profession,

Euro-Med University’s Business Management program.

Marlon Rivera is the epitome of self-expression. From

His successful work at a pioneering Filipino restaurant,

his accredited film Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank in 2012 to his

Purple Yam, inspired him to open his own restaurant as

advertising profession with Publicis Manila, Marlon has

he immerses in the New York food business.

written, directed and produced numerous works that will inspire future generations of Filipino creatives.

08. LEVenson RODRIGUEZ | As a bespoke clothier, Levenson sets the trend of introducing cutting edge and

03. Dino Mark Reyes | Creative and charming, Dino

customized tailored suits. His approach towards fash-

Reyes works side by side with Marlon Rivera as an exec-

ion is a timeless edge that covers modern style and ele-

utive assistant at Publicis Manila. Apart from this, he

gance complementing his long list of respected clientles.

currently runs a co-owned business with Marlon called Blue Barn; an events company that specializes in flowers,

09.

gifts, planning, and styling services.

practitioner to a modern chef, Cheska Cariño serves up

Cheska Cariño | From an aspiring medical

a new taste to Filipino cuisine. After cooking up experi-

04.

Patty Tumulak | Patricia “Patty” Tumulak is a

ences abroad, the young chef-in-the-making opened her

model for Filipina women everywhere. The formerly

first restaurant Premio where local specialties are ele-

crowned Binibining Pilipinas was once a volunteer teach-

vated to a standard that equals other cuisines around

er wanting to contribute in shaping the minds of the

the world.

youth specifically in special education. In spite of her loss at the Miss Earth Competition, Patty has continued her

10. Liliana Manahan | Known for her aesthetic and

dream of promoting awareness for better education and

intricate designs in brass and copper pieces, Liliana

an eco-friendly environment

Manahan embellishes her unique style of humorous and bold artworks that straddle between functional and

05.

Marco de Guzman | Marketing specialist and

decorative purposes.

entrepreneur Marco de Guzman is the founder of many entertainment and gastropub venues such as Draft, Re-

11.

publiq, Izakaya, and Groove Ink. to name a few. Marco

Rambie Katrina Lim, works hand in hand with the Echo-

showcases both local and international events by hold-

si foundation to create awareness in focusing fair trade

ing events and cuisines that will expand Filipino cuisine

and sustainable products. As she contributes towards

and culture.

an eco-friendlier environment, Rambie works closely

Rambie Katrina Lim | Visionary merchandiser

with Rurungan sa Tubod Foundation, a non-profit orga-

06. Alexis Oshima | An individual of multiple talents

nization that creates an alternative livelihood for rural

and interests, Alexis is a Fil-Am woman who has spent

communities by teaching piña weaving technology.

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The Nationwide Culinary Course • • • • •

Millionaire Salad Pancit Negra Lamb Shank Caldereta Singanglay Champorado Cookies with Sagada Coffee

For recipes, turn to page 118.

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ocated in a quiet corner of Bonifacio Global City,

whether it was of local or international cuisine. As peo-

Taguig, Gustare started out as a commissar y

ple started discovering this hidden gem, more visitors

founded by childhood friends Chiqui Lara and

came. People liked the vibe Gustare gave off, and it

Ginny De Guzman. With their very passionate appre-

wasn’t long before it turned into a hub for artistic per-

ciation and appetite for reinventing food, the two had

sonalities to gorge on their favorite dishes and brain-

long searched for a venue where they could experiment

storm all day. Needless to say, people felt at home here.

on sundry dishes. One day, as they drove and traversed

“We named the place Gustare because in Italian, it lit-

along the Fort area, Chiqui and Ginny finally found their

erally means ‘to enjoy’. Filipinos like to experiment with

own quaint space.

food, and we wanted to give an idea of the kind of life-

“When we saw this, it opened our eyes and we thought

style where they can eat and enjoy a good conversation.”

it was a nice place. It’s secluded, and the rent was af-

Another likeable trait that friends and diners sim-

fordable. We never really planned for it to become more

ilarly agree on is Gustare’s authenticity in every dish.

than a commissary, but whenever people came in, they

“When we tried to prepare Bacolod Chicken Inasal, we

would ask ‘can we eat here?’ With the kitchen and the

literally went to the Manokan Country. Then not long af-

work area, we fixed it up a bit and thought it looked de-

ter, we tried the one at Sarsa. I have staff, cousins, and

cent enough.”

friends who make their own inasal, and everyone has

With that, people started visiting Gustare for bite

their own version and style.”

sized pastries, gourmet pastes, or reserving dinners

Whenever challenged with an unfamiliar cuisine,

or lunch dates for Ginny’s well-curated courses. Upon

Ginny would follow the recipes, send it out to friends

reservation, she would ask her guests what they want,

and ask if her cooking was as accurate as to what they

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had described. Every cooked dish is to be as authentic

food influence of its former inhabitants (Spanish, Chi-

as possible. From delivering Davao’s Malagos cheese to

nese, Indian, Arab).”

handpicked oversized gourds and selecting the best lo-

“Lastly, a table should look abundant. Ingredients

cal herbs, Gustare organizes and curates to gratify your

shouldn’t have to be expensive, but fresh and showing

cravings with personalized course meals.

vitality that is both nourishing and delicious.”

“Food is food. There is some commonality there; it’s

Other than cooking up new recipes and preparing

just a matter of timing when to serve the plate. Each

scrumptious courses, the charming commissary also

course must be true. Whenever we get to travel, the ob-

caters to charitable programs. When Typhoon Yolanda

jective we have is to try new food.”

struck last November 2013, Gustare held an open event

Curating food is a process. Simply knowing how di-

in collaboration with Chef Allen Buhay of Wildf lour.

verse and flavorful our regional cuisine can be, Ginny

During the program, farmers from the affected areas

plans her dishes accordingly by making sure they do not

share their experiences and their advice when it comes

cancel each other out.

to preparing and caring for farmlands in times of ca-

“When it comes to mixing and matching dishes, you

lamities. The proceeds were contributed to the victims

can look at it from a fashion point of view. Start with

of Typhoon Yolanda and thus, people walked away with

the basics, and then begin layering f lavors and tex-

a deeper understanding of what it truly means to sup-

tures. Dishes can complement each other; like sinanglay

port your fellow countrymen.

(poached fish dish in coconut with a mellow turmeric

G u s t a r e c o nt i nu o u s l y e v o l v e s i nt o a v e nu e

rice) followed by a robust and strong flavored lamb cal-

where people can gather to exper ience authentici-

dereta. This could be a focal point wherein the flavors

ty and good company. “I think it lives up to its name

contrast like a sweet and sour acharra.”

‘to enjoy’. When people come in and enjoy the food

“Colors are important too. We have so many vegeta-

chances are you will be in good company. We are sup-

ble options that can be served raw and cooked. Filipino

portive of our farmers, of our food, and you can enjoy

food isn’t always brown and oily. We can use seaweeds

in supporting them. We want it to be like a hub for

and ferns to mix with western lettuces and make inter-

different kinds of expressions: literature, food, art. It

esting salads. Every region has their specialty based on

all ties in.” — (AH)

THE CHEESE PIECE While most people grab the first slice of cake after a scrumptious meal, why not pass on a slice of cheese? As surprising as it may sound, having cheese for dessert can be a palatable experience that goes well with your glass of wine. Here are facts why you should “say cheese”: •

Having something sweet after a savory meal can sometimes erase the palatal impression that the dinner left; whereas continuing with a slice of cheese can further extend the experience of what came before.

•

End a full course meal on a lighter note. Sometimes cakes and other pastries can feel too rich or heavy. If you’re left with some wine after your meal, there’s nothing better than cheese to help you finish your glass.

•

Cheese can be sweet too! Think aged Gouda, and fresh cheeses with notes of caramel and sweet milk – each with their own degree of sweetness.

•

Cheese pairings can bring a little sweetness to your meal. Honey and Gorgonzola, melon and goat cheese –the possibilities are endless.

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FOCUS

NATIONWIDE CULINARY TOURS: INDULGING IN APPETIZING LOCAL DISHES ACROSS THE REGIONS The Philippines is known for its wide array of enticing native dishes. With a background inspired by multiple cultures, each dish has its own distinct preparation using homegrown ingredients. Feast your eyes on our nation’s culinary pride –courtesy of Gustare.

What is your take on Filipino food? How does it dis-

it a little further by using extra virgin olive oil, white

tinguish itself compared to other cuisines?

wine, and a blanket of chicharon on top with a squeeze

Filipino food is way ahead of the fusion East meets

of fresh lemon.

West cuisine. We have been cooking that way for centuries. Starting with our Austronesian and Malay ancestors

Any tips when preparing these dishes at home?

that crossed land bridges to bring roots crops, we have

To cook good Filipino food, we need to use the best and

a strong Chinese influence from trading and migration,

freshest ingredients. Let’s dispense the instant sinigang

and of course, Latin influence from Spain and the Ma-

mixes. Start with the good stuff, newly picked pako,

nila-Acapulco galleon trade. American taste, good and

plump sun ripened tomato, natural vinegar. With fresh

bad, is here to stay.

ingredients, you don’t have to do much.

Filipino food continues to evolve, with more of us Manila folk discovering our regional cuisine.

We cook Pinoy food the traditional way with the finest ingredients possible, but we also try to strike a balance in

The restaurant scene mirrors this trend with more specialized ones like Sarsa, showcasing food from Bacolod and Victorino’s in QC serving Ilocano favorites.

the flavors, making it more subtle as Pinoy food at times can be harsh: too salty, acidic, oily or fishy. Travelling to the provinces and scouring the organic markets to discover new ingredients and ways of prepar-

From Cavite’s Pancit Negra to Pampanga’s Pako

ing them is a constant joy. We interpret them in Gustare

Salad, what was your interpretation behind each

in our own style but always keeping its Filipino origins.

dish? | I tried the Pancit Negra of Asiong’s in Cavite and

After all, our local cuisine is an evolution that mirrors

was inspired. It was a great and tasty idea. We took

the dynamics Pinoys search for in taste. — (AH)

p h o t o g ra p hy N e i l O s h i ma

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THE MENU 01. Southern Tagalog region |

Caldereta

02. Cavite | Pancit Negra 03. Visayas Region | 04. Bicol |

Millionaire Salad

Sinanglay

05. Sagada + mountain province | Coffee with Camporado Cookies

06 04

06. Bicol | Maja Blanca 03

L Chef Ginny Roces de Guzman A perfect mix of talent, passion, and hard-work, Ginny Roces-De Guzman is the genius behind Gustare and the author of several cookbooks, including “Bake Me a Cake.” At the tender age of 7, Ginny found herself discovering the wonders of the kitchen out of necessity, but would later on find her passion in the craft. Her undeniable talent and creativity manifested when she started the bakeshop we all came to love—Sugarhouse. Believing in the power of constant improvement, she continued to hone her skill by studying at the Culinary Institute of America. Apart from Gustare, she is currently involved in consultancy work and sharing her knowledge through articles on culinary publications.

R Chiqui Lara | With three decades in the Philippine advertising industry, Y&R President Chiqui Lara is one of the leading women making a difference in our country today. She began her career as a market researcher with Unilever then eventually shifted as a trainee at JWT University. Her training and experience cultivated her knowledge and passion for advertising which led to multi-awarded campaigns with Y&R. Today, she spends her time off pursuing do-good projects with Gawad Kalinga and is currently business partners with Ginny De Guzman at Gustare.

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Lamb Shank Caldereta –Southern Tagalog Region Ingredients (Braising Pan) • 2 lb Sonoma lamb shanks • 1/2 cup liver paste • 1/4 cup soy sauce • 1/4 cup tomato paste • 1/4 cup red wine • 2 tbsp white vinegar • 12 pcs stuffed green olives or pimiento • 1/2 cup garbanzos • 2 heads garlic (cut in half across) • 1 medium onion (finely diced) • 3 pcs bay leaves (dried) • Philippine sea salt and black pepper to taste • 4 cups hot water • 4 tbsp olive oil (Sauté Pan) • 6 pcs baby carrots (peeled and halved) • 6 pcs baby bell peppers (halved with skin) • 12 pcs pearl onions • 1/2 cup green peas • 1 tbsp onions, diced (taken from the diced onion above) • 3 tbsp olive oil • Philippine sea salt and black pepper to taste • 12 pcs heirloom cherry tomatoes for garnish

Cooking directions:

• Start with the lamb shanks by removing the outer white tissue and fat layer with a boning knife. Scrape off the tendons and tissues still attached on the end of the femur. Be sure to keep this portion neat.

• Season it with salt and pepper.

• Heat pan and pour olive oil. When the oil is about to reach the smoking point, sear the shanks for 2 minutes on each side until it’s golden in color.

• Remove from pan then reduce heat to medium. Reserve 1 tbsp of diced onions for caramelized vegetables.

• Sauté onions until translucent then add garlic. Return the lamb shanks onto the pan and pour wine.

• Deglaze the pan then add tomato paste, liver paste, soy sauce, vinegar, garbanzo, olives, bay leaves and water.

• Let it simmer then stir and cover. Reduce flame to low once the sauce is evenly incorporated and braise for 15-25 minutes until the meat falls off the bones.

• Taste sauce for final seasoning adjustment.

• Place sauté pan on medium heat then add oil. When the oil is hot, carefully arrange potatoes face down for 5 minutes.

• Add reserved diced onions, then the carrots, peppers and pearl onions. Sauté occasionally. Season with salt and black pepper.

• Add the peas last since it doesn’t need to be cooked.

• Place the lamb shanks bone up on a bed of caramelized vegetables.

• Spoon sauce. Garnish with heirloom cherry tomatoes and drizzle some extra virgin olive oil. Serve with a side of rice.

Tips: When preparing your lamb shanks, be sure to slow cook the meat to make the fat render into the braising liquid. This will add on flavor into your sauce. To test whether your lamb shanks are cooked through, see if the meat begins to come away from the bone.

For meat lovers, a bowl of caldareta or casserole would make a perfect meal for the day. With a rich, thick lamb stew, the combination of flavors simmer harmoniously with garlic and vegetables giving it a satisfying taste into our Spanish side.

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Pancit Negra –Cavite

Ingredients:

• 1/2 kilo vermicelli pasta (cooked according to package directions) • 1/2 kilo fresh squid (cleaned and cut into rings) • Celery (chopped) • 3 tbsp. olive oil • 5 cloves of garlic (minced) • 1 large red onion (chopped) • 1 thumb size ginger (cut into small pieces) • Chicaron bits • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking directions:

• Cook your noodles to save you time while preparing your sauce and squid.

• Clean the squid and carefully remove the squid’s funnel and place the ink on a clean bowl.

• Slice the squid as well as its tentacles into small pieces. Rinse well and drain again.

• Using a sauce pan, sauté the garlic, onion, and ginger over high heat. Add the sliced squid and stir-fry for one to two minutes.

• Add vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce, and squid ink. Pour a cup of water then slightly raise the temperature for it to start boiling.

• After two to four minutes, lower the heat to medium flame then add the vermicelli. Stir well until it is absorbed into the sauce.

• Season with salt and pepper and chopped celery then mix.

• Sprinkle with chicharon on top alongside toasted garlic before serving.

Tips:

With a similar take on pancit bihon and sotanghon, pancit negra or pancit pusit is a Caviteño noodle dish that makes use of squid ink to give its distinctive look and flavor. With a mix of squid and shrimp,

To clean and extract ink from the squid, be sure to have a bowl ready to avoid any mess. Rinse the squid in cold water then gently twist and pull the head away from the body. The silvery ink sac should be visibly attached to the entrails. Carefully detach this using your knife. After doing so, puncture the sac and squeeze the contents into a small bowl with 1/4 cup of water or vinegar.

this dish can be an absolute meatless variant for those who prefer to avoid chicken or pork. Others also prepare the dish with tahong (mussels) making it an all-around seafood dish.

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Millionaire Salad – Visayas Region

Ingredients

• 250 g heart of coconut palm • 5 cooked medium sized tiger prawns (peeled and deveined) • 1 ripe avocado (diced) • 220 g of tomatoes (halved) • 2 mangoes (diced) • 50 g cooked pork (finely sliced) • 1 small white onion (finely sliced) • carrot (julienned) • red chilli (seeds removed, finely sliced) • 1 tsp of sesame seeds • 2 tbsp of white wine vinegar • 80 ml (1/3 cup) of extra-virgin olive oil

Cooking directions:

• Combine the oil and vinegar in a bowl and whisk. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper and set aside.

• Slice the coconut palm heart lengthways and place in a mixing bowl.

• Add all the remaining ingredients, except for the sesame seeds. Toss well. • Sprinkle with sesame seeds then serve.

All-Around Uses for coconut:

• Give drinks a nutritional boost. Coconut juice can be a refreshing and nourishing beverage as it is high in alkaline content.

• Coconut oil is healthier and equally safe to use for cooking oil, including deep frying.

• A tablespoon of coconut oil before each meal can help improve digestion.

Made from one of the most common resources in the country—the coconut; the Millionaire Salad is a Visayan dish that makes use of local ubod or “heart” of the coconut. Ubod is considered to be one of the finest vegetables in the Philippines. With a crunchy texture, it’s mixed with lettuce leaves, red pepper, chopped spring onions and your dressing of choice. The dish makes a great local alternative when eating greens.

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P r epa r i ng fo o d kilawin st yle means making use of raw seafood or meat. For this dish, the meat was prepared with its main ingredients: vinegar or kalamansi, giving its spicy and sour flavor. Whereas sinugba is a term which means “to grill”, the dish is prepared with a soy ginger marinade that makes it as a popular pulutan or finger food.

Sinanglay -Bicol Ingredients: • 2 pieces of medium tilapia (cleaned and scales removed) • 4 pieces of wide bok choy (or pechay) leaves • 4 cloves of garlic (chopped) • 1 medium onion (diced) • 2 pieces of medium tomatoes (diced) • 1 thumb of ginger (chopped) • 3 pieces of long green chili • 1 1/2 cups of coconut milk • 1/2 cup of water • 1 tsp of salt

Cooking Procedure:

• In a bowl, combine garlic, onion, tomatoes, and ginger then mix.

• Stuff the tilapia with the garlic, onion, and ginger mixture.

• Wrap the bok choy around the tilapia. The leaves ensure that the entire fish is wrapped.

• Secure the bok choy by tying a kitchen twine around the tilapia. (This step is optional)

• Arrange the wrapped tilapia in a wide cooking pan then pour-in coconut milk and water. Sprinkle salt, cover, and turn on heat.

• Cook the fish in medium heat for 20 minutes.

• Turn off heat. Remove the cooking twine and transfer the fish to a serving plate. • Serve hot.

Tips: If you want the tilapia skin to slightly stick towards the fish meat, allow the fish to simmer without the pechay cover.

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Sagada coffee with champorado cookies Ingredients: • 1/2 cup of lard (instead of vegetable oil) • 4 oz of tablea or unsweetened baking chocolate (melted and cooled) • 2 cups of granulated sugar • 1 tsp of vanilla • 1 tsp of almond extract • 4 eggs • 2 cups of all-purpose flour • 2 tsp of baking powder • 1/2 tsp of salt • 1/2 cup roughly chopped cashew nuts • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Cooking Directions

• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

• In a large bowl, mix oil, chocolate, sugar and vanilla. Stir in eggs, one at a time. Stir in flour, baking powder and salt.

• Stir in the cashew nuts and chocolate chips.

• Take two tablespoons of dough and form into a ball • Repeat with remaining dough.

• Cover cookies and chill in refrigerator for one hour.

• Preheat oven to 350°c. Bake cookies until they begin to look dry and cracked on top.

Tips: If you don’t have unsweetened baking chocolate or tablea, you can substitute with cocoa powder. Make sure the tablea that you buy is pure, unadulterated tablea. Tablea already mixed with sugar is not entirely suitable for baking. Experiment with other ingredients that could be added to your cookie mix such as raisins or oatmeal.

Champorado is a sweet chocolate rice porridge often served during breakfast. This is traditionally made by boiling sticky rice with cocoa powder, giving its sweet taste. This dish takes a local favorite and turns it into a crunchy treat with a subtle sweetness perfectly matched with freshly brewed native Sagada coffee.

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Maja Blanca - Bicol Ingredients: • • • • • •

4 cups of coconut milk 3/4 cup of cornstarch 14 ounces of condensed milk 3/4 cup of fresh milk 3/4 cup of granulated sugar 15 ounces of whole sweet kernel corn • 5 tbsp toasted or grated coconut

Cooking Directions: • Pour the coconut milk into a cooking pot and bring to a boil

• Add the sugar, condensed milk, and whole sweet kernel corn then stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Let it simmer for at least 8 minutes

• Combine the fresh milk and cornstarch then whisk until the cornstarch is diluted.

• Pour the fresh milk and cornstarch mixture in the cooking pot and stir thoroughly

• Stir while the mixture cooks up to your desired thickness • Pour the mixture in a serving tray. Arrange it then flatten the top using a flat tool such as a wooden spatula

• Let it cool under room temperature then place in the fridge for at least an hour

• Garnish with toasted grated coconut (or latik if available)

Tips: The more amount of coconut milk you place into your mixture, the thicker your maja blanca will be.

Popularly served during fiestas and holidays, the maja blanca is a dessert of Spanish origin that makes use of coconut milk, cornstarch and sugar. With a smooth consistency, it’s complemented with kernel corn and sprinkled with coconut flakes.

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L ife + S t y le

Curating your lifestyle: Better living by choice

Sustaining a healthier lifestyle through a different perspective.

hange your lifestyle. Ask experts how you can

ing and commuting for just 15 minutes at the gym, use

live healthier and their advice may be collective-

the stairs whenever you go to work or head to the mall.

ly summarized by this singular statement. The

It’s like walking the same number of kilometers as you

caveat: It’s easier said than done and it’s easier started

would have used the treadmill.

than sustained. Don’t jump on another bandwagon or sign up for exer-

Get bored—and get out | “In Japan, houses are

cise classes you don’t really care for. Try changing your

built small so that people would get bored and be forced

viewpoint on what healthy living really is.

to go outdoors,” shared Dr. Leachon.

“To sustain a healthy lifestyle, you need to enjoy the

Never overlook the possibilities of idle time. Instead of

choices you make,” said Dr. Anthony Leachon, President

resorting to tempting movie marathons and junk food,

of the Philippine College of Physicians.

get out and do something worthwhile. Find a restaurant

If you feel like you’re too caught up in life’s daily grind, here are six suggestions we’ve curated especially for you.

on foot. Would you rather multitask indoors than mingle outdoors? Ask your friends to come over! Enjoy tea to-

Think food appreciation, not food avoid-

gether while you all brainstorm on how to reorganize

ance | Let’s experiment: Try not to think of the best slice

your wardrobe. Extra task: Back up your computer while

of moist chocolate cake you’ve ever had.

you’re busy having fun—it’s one more thing you can

Whenever you tell yourself not to think of something,

cross off your perpetual to-do list.

odds are you’re already thinking about it. That’s exactly why food avoidance is a tall order for people trying to shave off pounds.

Junk the pantry junk | Take a look at what food you keep in your cupboard. If you find chips, sweets, and in-

Instead, think of a full plate of organic Romaine let-

stant noodles, do yourself a favor: toss them aside.

tuce and arugula with your favorite dressing. Then top

Junk food does nothing to satisfy your craving for

it off with grilled chicken, plump cherry tomatoes, and

nutrients. If you’re tired of the usual apples and or-

slices of hard-boiled, farm-fresh eggs. Although it isn’t

anges, stock up on passionfruit, dragon fruit, and kiwi

exactly a low-calorie meal, there’s enough fiber, phyto-

for a change.

chemicals, protein, and essential fatty acid to keep you sated while meeting your body’s nutritional needs. A no-chocolate policy on your fridge is unnecessary if you’re too busy eating good food! Besides, isn’t

And if you’re really craving for Doritos, try grabbing a bag of mixed nuts. They pack the crunch your palate wants, while the healthy fat nips your cravings in the bud.

making happy choices the whole point of curating a healthy lifestyle?

Dare to get lost | Travelling? Don’t be afraid to take a wrong turn.

Think activity, not exercise | “Harvard Medical

“When you get lost, you walk greater distances and

School’s Healthy Eating Plate doesn’t say, ‘Exercise for

engage with more people. You then get elevated levels of

30 minutes.’ It simply tells us to stay active,” remind-

feel-good endorphins,” Dr. Leachon said.

ed Dr Leachon.

Just be prepared to find your way again. Never leave

Why make exercise a separate task if it can be part of

the hotel without a fully-charged phone, bottle of water,

your other errands? Instead of spending hours prepar-

and a map. Carry a list of common questions (“Where

p h o t o g ra p hy ar t h ur A bra h am

126 comMtalk

can I get a cab?” or “Where is the nearest resto?”) and jot

food you want to enjoy, places you want to visit, and ac-

down how to say them in a language locals understand.

tivities you want to try. The constant visual reminders reinforce your commitment.

Find a furry friend | Owning a pet can lower your risk for heart disease, declared the American Heart As-

Before you decide on how to live your life, ask your-

sociation in a 2013 scientific statement published in

self if you’re basing those decisions on a healthy point of

Circulation. Having a furry friend can keep mood swings

view. It takes time before your habits catch up with your

at bay. But if committing to domesticated animals can

mindset, but it’s worth the wait. After all, it’s easier to

be a “pet” peeve, try spending time with a furry friend,

stick to a game plan if it’s fun from the get-go. — (SDC)

(no strings attached) by volunteering at Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) or Compassion and Responsibility for Animals (CARA).

About the author: Stef dela Cruz, M.D. received the 2013 Health Media Recognition

Keep a killer mood board | Manipulate your mind

Award from the Department of Health. She is a recipient of the

with a mood board!

Dean Bacala Academic Excellence Award at the University of

Try making a mood board that exhibits the lifestyle choices you find hard to uphold. Post photos of healthy

Santo Tomas and an honor graduate in medicine. Find out how she curates a healthy lifestyle at www.stefdelacruz.com.

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L ife + S t y le

A fit and better you

Nowadays, people don’t need to force themselves in a box. Be it in fashion, food, or even work, one can choose to “personalize” what suits them best. This same philosophy holds true for fitness. While big-named and established local and international gyms have become accessible, some prefer to follow a different style of fitness regimen that fits into their personal lifestyle.

Planaforma: Intense and life-changing

weeks, making dresses and jeans fit perfectly.

FITNESS:

It would be difficult to find an exercise that would match the physical and mental fulfillment from this work-

or professionals who were physically active in their

out. Planaforma enthusiasts believe in it because it’s an in-

younger years, searching for the best exercise regi-

tense but holistic workout executed in exactly 55 minutes.

men for their present lifestyle could be challenging.

There’s also the added incentive of learning the elements

Apart from the more traditional gym workout, fitness

of dance, and being absolutely fun. — (MT)

trends such as Muay Thai boxing, yoga, spinning, CrossFit, pole dancing and Zumba, have become alternatives for The Planaforma Studios are located at Fort and Quezon City. For

restless urbanites. For those yearning a fun yet intense exercise that works

schedules, packages and more you may call: (02) 632 5530870 |

out all the muscle groups in the shortest possible time, Pla-

0917 8094392. You can also log on to the website: www.for-

naforma could be the answer.

ma-asia.com or email: Info@forma-asia.com.

Julie Alagde, the brainchild of Planaforma, incorporated her in-depth experience as a professional dancer with other workouts such as pilates, yoga, and Physique 57, to come up with a life-changing and immensely addicting workout. A Planaforma session is never the same and makes you use muscles you never even knew existed. Forma classes are of the interval type of strength training, building the heat especially during the sprints. Trainers push you until your muscles burn, up to the point of exhaustion, but they insert a few stretches throughout the workout to prevent bulking. There are three levels: Beginners (standard), Mixed (added cardio challenge because of its faster pace), and Intermediate (a lot more cardio and strength challenge with a much faster pace and more movement integration). One can also appreciate the dance background of all the Planaforma instructors, as they are not only focused on strength and endurance, but more importantly, on form and posture. They are very motivating and put you in the mood to focus and work for the body you always wanted. Planaforma defines the legs, making it lean and strong. It strengthens the core, elongates the torso and gives amazing definition to the lower and upper back muscles. It zaps jiggly arms by working out the bicep, but putting more emphasis on the tricep and deltoid areas. The most immediate change you will see (with 5 to 6 sessions in a week) is that Planaforma will shape and lift your seat in less than two

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TRX: Effective, safe and portable

TRX is unique because it is portable. Regardless if you’re indoors or outdoors, on the go or in your home, you can use it anywhere. TRX is also very safe. As you are using your own body weight, there is a much slighter chance of injury. Core isolation is a further benefit of suspension train-

RX is a body-weight and sus-

ing. While engaged in exercises in which you are sus-

pension training exercise. The

pended on your legs, for example, your only point of con-

equipment, called a TRX Trainer,

tact with the ground are your hands. As such, your core

is a strap with two handles on which you can

is constantly engaged, working “double time” to align

suspend your hands (hands on the handles with

your body and ensure proper movement. It’s like hitting

feet on the ground) or your feet (feet on the han-

two birds with one stone: your target area is getting a

dles and hands or elbows on the ground).

workout all while strengthening your core. — (RC)

A primary advantage of TRX is that you can quickly work on your whole body by simply changing positions. In a traditional gym, you

Academy One, Alabang Hills and Home Studio in Acacia Es-

need to transfer machines, adjust weights or

tates, Taguig City - reema.chanco@gmail.com | Master Trainer

the like in order to get a complete workout.

Linzi Co’s studio at Pure Pilates Philippines, QC - linziarellano-

With TRX, you receive a more complete

co@gmail.com | For a complete list of TRX teachers and studios

workout, with less time and hassle.

Crossfit: best of many sports in one workout

you can email trxphilippines@gmail.com.

curate on their movements. He did this by implementing the principles of various sports that are quite good in different aspects. He adopted the flexibility and control of gymnastics as

rossFit by definition is “constantly varied func-

well as the power and strength of Olympic weightlifters

tional movements executed at high intensity

and powerlifters. Lately, the workouts have started to

across broad modal and time domains.”

evolve with the principles of other sports, making Cross-

In real-life application, CrossFit is a strength and con-

Fit ever evolving.

ditioning system aimed at improving fitness in different

Competitive athletes in various sports love CrossFit

aspects and forms. Along with being fit, it aims to im-

because they can feel the results immediately. The work-

prove speed, strength, power, coordination, and accura-

out lasts for an hour and you connect with various people

cy by implementing various sports in one workout.

who are also trying to get fit.

By doing sports like gymnastics, Olympic weightlift-

It is common to see overweight people who lose weight

ing, powerlifting, body weight exercises and implement-

in a month and stay that way because the WODs are ever

ing them in a WOD or workout of the day, you get a work-

changing and the exercises are not repeated.

out that is dynamic, functional and ever changing.

To start in CrossFit, the first thing you must do is make

CrossFit originated from the United States and was

a commitment to stay for the long haul. It can be painful

created by Greg Glassman, a former gymnast. His aim

in the beginning because your body goes through a shock

was to touch upon various aspects of fitness in one sys-

system, but after a few days, you will start to see positive

tem, making the workouts beneficial for everyone.

results. And as you keep doing the workouts, the more

He didn’t want people to be just big and strong; he wants them to be flexible, fast, powerful, agile, and ac-

addicting it will become. It would be best to start two-three times a week and after a month or so, you can increase the frequency of your workout, in consultation with a certified coach. — (ADC)

CrossFit Alpha Strike 189 Maginhawa st. corner Makadios st. Sikatuna Village, Quezon City, 1101 (63)917 9299119 | Ang Tibay Training https://m.facebook.com/AngTibayTraining

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FILIPINO CUSINE: Pinoy Food on a global Scale How Pinoys learned to stop worrying about their own cuisine, and let the rest of the world love it.

ndrew Zimmern thinks it’s the next big thing

nese, Mexican, American, French to name a few—plus

that’ll take the world by storm. Chefs of Filipi-

the different indigenous groups that have practiced their

no descent have been appearing on shows like

unique ways of preparing food items. In Sagada, you can

Top Chef—and even one of them, Paul Chi, clinched the

wander along main street and eat juicy thick-cut bacon,

title. Restaurants or cafes proudly flaunting Pinoy menus

seasoned and preserved using a mix of techniques com-

have been earning raves in New York and London (as

bined from northern cultures and American influences;

well as Nora Daza’s Filipino-themed restaurant in Paris

savor a traditional pinipikan stew; try locally-made yo-

—with an outlet of the acclaimed Purple Yam (formerly

gurt; and cap the meal with a slice of lemon pie using a

Cendrillon) set to open this year in Malate’s Remedios

recipe taught by Episcopalian missionaries and perfect-

Circle area. Yes, you read that right: Filipino cuisine, re-

ed over the years.

invented in the U.S., is being introduced in Manila—and lines are forming for it.

Expat Chef Hylton le Roux shared something that blew his mind while touring Iloilo for his cable TV show. People may have certain things taken away from them, but

Playing with food | If you mentioned such a thing

food is an indelible part of their culture. It’s a truth that

20 years ago, people might have scoffed at the concept.

gets served to us every day, whether it’s the caldereta we

After all, most people don’t venture out to eat their own

get from the jollijeep, or re-imagined pancit molo from a Pi-

native cuisine; they ate out to have food they couldn’t

noy bistro. The ingredients will reflect our everyday re-

cook at home. There were self-deprecating essays about

ality, with the final dish embodying our ideals passed on

how delicious our own cuisine was, but how unappetiz-

and given a little reshaping over the years.

ing it looked.

For instance, Filipinos from every point of the archi-

Despite the seeming put-downs, culinary enthusiasts

pelago have many ways to describe rice from grain to

all over slowly but surely started riffing on Pinoy food.

hulled form to its cooked appearance, as well as the dif-

From the chef presenting his own version of tiramisu us-

ferent varieties of rice grown in different regions. Even

ing putong ube slices and alternating layers of cheese and

the manner of preparation can vary: the gruel-like am for

macapuno ice cream; to artisanal ice cream makers boldly

babies, slightly thicker lugaw, cooked kanin—and there’s

creating green mango sorbet paired with warm bagoong;

the glutinous varieties that get turned into suman, biko,

and provincial specialties plated beautifully and hewing

and rice cakes of various sizes, colors, and flavors. In

closely to their regional flavor—there’s no limit to the

places where corn is more abundant, the grain is milled

re-imagination of Filipino cuisine and making it shine in

until it approximates couscous or even short grained

the spotlight.

rice—then eaten as the customary starch accompanying

Time and the Pinoy diaspora also seem to be on our

vegetables or protein.

side now, as millions of Filipinos often attempt to recre-

Economic changes also dictate the food that’s avail-

ate or seek out the flavors of home from wherever they

able on our tables. The indigenous people that created

are in the world. Having international attention directed

the rice terraces of the Mountain Province have strug-

at our food, (thanks to raves by Zimmern, Anthony Bour-

gled in modern times to maintain this heritage site—

dain) someone will always give staples like adobo a new

turning to planting heirloom rice as a means to earn

twist. Many of us may love (or hate) this dish, but we’ll

some income and keep their culture alive. But some who

always be willing to find out what makes it different.

have actively turned to terrace farming use it for vegetables instead, so instead of rice stalks waving in the

Food as history | After all, different cultures have

breeze, you may be surprised to see cabbage heads and

been influencing ours over the centuries—Spanish, Chi-

carrot tops basking under the sun.

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Adobo is one of the most popularly prepared dishes the Philippines. With only a handful of spices and a mix of soy sauce,

adobo is not only easy to cook but is versatile in its own preparation. The mixed use of meat simmered in stock and spices give it a flavorful taste further enhanced even after it’s served.

Adobong Manok at Baboy Adobong manok at baboy is an authentic Filipino dish appreciated both locally and internationally. Not to be mistaken with Mexican adobo, this dish is uniquely prepared by stewing chicken, pork, or a combination of both in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic and peppercorns. This popular version of adobo allows the meat to marinate before cooking; and therefore improves as it sits.

Adobo sa Gata Apart from its thick consistency and difference in color, adobo sa gata is a traditional Southern Tagalog recipe, particularly from the Bicol region, where the meat is simmered in the traditional vinegar marinade then complemented with coconut milk and chilies. Whether cooked with chicken, beef shanks, or pork cuts, the infused coconut mix turns this perennial favorite into a wonderful viand that’s both rich and mildly spiced.

Adobong May Sabaw In contrast to adobong manok at baboy,

adobong may sabaw is a sweeter variety to this popular dish. It’s a Visayan way of preparing adobo which requires a bit of brown sugar and tausi mixed with soy sauce. This gives the adobo its sweet, sour, and salty taste all at once. The pickled meat can be served fried, broiled, or grilled with an optional assortment of potatoes and hardboiled eggs to make it ample for extensive family gatherings.

Cooking ng ina mo | Again, no two perceptions on Filipino food may be alike. But that’s okay, because culture is a living, changing thing. People are now bravely experimenting, changing a few things here and there, challenging even the traditional—and this is why Pinoy food is in the spotlight it deserves. It reflects the very nature of its culture—adaptive, open and still able to retain the characteristics that can make anyone think it’s just as good as their grandma’s cooking. — (AG)

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YOUNG ARTISTS STUDIO: A CREATIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR KIDS Entertaining young minds with creativity and education.

hildren are naturally adventurous, curious and

Knowledge, patience and passion for the craft are

creative. They learn from exploring the world

paramount in looking for an art class teacher, stresses

and immersing themselves in activities that

Avie. “You want someone who knows what he/she is

allow for self-expression. Art classes are a great way to keep kids entertained while learning something new. With brushes dipped in paint, a swirl of the hand, and several strokes after, kids make masterpieces in

doing and imparts it well to the kids in the class.” Small classes with a ratio of one teacher to five students should be maintained. This allows for closer monitoring at all times.

an art class. “There is no student who can’t draw. Ev-

A teacher should also be able to assess his or her

eryone can with proper training,” explains Avie Fe-

students individually. Since there is no cookie cutter

lix, a graduate of Artistry from the University of the

mold (especially in the art scene), teachers should be

Philippines and the co-founder of Young Artists’ Stu-

able to evaluate the students and be prepared to adjust

dio (YAS). Drawing is methodical, she says. “It can be

based on individual skill level. “For a class with a com-

learned, just like riding a bike.”

bined age range from 4 to 8, the teacher should be able

As an authority in conducting year-round art work-

to adapt well in each age group.”

shops for YAS, Teacher Avie shares tips, insights, and how-to’s for groups who want to organize art classes

CLASS FEE | If sponsors can shoulder costs, it would

for kids.

be great if the classes are offered for free. If none, students should pay to cover for basic expenses that will

VENUE | “Choose a place with a high ceiling, lots of

be incurred during class, including the art materials

natural light coming in, and where water is read-

to be used.

ily available,” says Teacher Avie. Parks and open

At the end of the course, the community can cel-

spaces, she says, are not conducive since kids get

ebrate the skill of the students by holding their very

distracted easily.

own art exhibit. While it may not be in an art gallery,

A closed-off venue also makes sure that nobody else can get in. Her studios have glass walls so the

the kids are sure to find a sense of fulfillment knowing that their masterpieces are appreciated.

parents and the guardians can still see their child.

While an art workshop differs largely from the sim-

“There should be some sort of a barrier so the child

pler art class which communities can organize, both

doesn’t feel pressured and they can be themselves,”

help hone future masters.

she explains.

Young Artists’ Studio offers holistic development targeting not only skills but also a deeper appreciation

TEACHER | As an artist herself, teacher Avie cautions

of the art. Their barometer of success then is “when ev-

that “not all artists can teach and not all teachers can

ery student can imagine themselves as artists.” — (MB)

be artists.” A bonafide art guru should be able to deconstruct a seemingly complex idea to its simplest and rawest form. Crinkle, an art teacher, best explains it: “Art is made up of the basic shapes.” From faces to

Log on to their website at www.youngartistsstudio.ph or call

landscapes – no matter how complex can be broken

them at (02) 975 0052 | (02) 964 5951 for more information

down to squares, triangles and circles.

on the workshops they offer.

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L ife + S t y le

KID CRAFTS: FOR LAZY AFTERNOONS

Weekends may bore some children, especially if they can’t go out and play. There are also some afternoons when time seem to move slowly, making them restless and hungry for any type of activity. Bring out your crafts basket for some quick tricks that’s sure to impress them.

hen children need to stay indoors, have them

twigs, branches, sticks, leaves, buttons, shells and

work on handmade projects. The best alternative is to sit them down, give them some

other similar items. •

materials and let their imagination run wild. Here are some DIY crafts that can fill the empty weekends and

Arrange the sticks into how you want your tree to look like.

•

rainy afternoons.

Hot glue them together so they will hold better. If you want a frame for your tree, you can glue it on to a poster board or an illustration board.

• The Stained Glass Window Project | Why not let your child make some art on your window?

to the branches by using white glue. •

Let your child’s imagination run free. All you need to do

Add more elements with markers, watercolor, crayons, small rocks, shells, dried leaves and flow-

is mix a small amount of dishwashing liquid and washable tempera paint. Another variation is to make colorful faux

After forming the tree, attach the colorful buttons

ers then let the artwork dry and display.

stained glass using cellophane cut into a variety of shapes

Recycled Paper Bowls | This project is a lovely way

and sizes.

of putting scrap paper to good use.

What You’ll Need:

2/3 solution of water | 1/3 dish soap | Cellophane (cut into a

6 to 8 sheets of scrap paper / recycled paper | 1/2 cup of

variety of shapes) | Paint brush / roller •

all-purpose flour/ white flour | 2 bowls | Mineral oil (petro-

Create a border around t he area by using painter’s tape.

leum jelly) | Water •

•

Mix a solution of 2/3 water and 1/3 dish soap.

•

Apply this on to the window with the use of a

tear them up into little bits. •

sponge roller. •

Take the scrap paper (any color, size, shape) and Pour some water in a bowl and soak the paper for three hours.

Let your child stick the shapes in whatever way

•

Strain it and squeeze out the extra water.

he wants: overlapping, creating scenes or stick-

•

The adult then needs to mix a cup of flour with a

ing random shapes everywhere! You can even

cup of water over a fire.

customize the shapes to fit a theme, like summer

•

Add two more cups of water, stir and boil.

flowers, hearts, butterflies, and many more.

•

Let it cool.

•

Loosen some of the wet paper and spoon some cool

Button Tree | If you have buttons, twigs, sticks, shells and other knick-knacks lying around the house, you can

paste mixture into the paper and mix well. •

use them to create a button tree!

Prepare a mold by rubbing a small bowl with petroleum jelly or mineral oil. Press your paper and paste mixture into the bottom and sides

What You’ll Need:

of the bowl.

Buttons | Sticks | White glue or hot glue (optional) Poster board paper | Paintbrushes •

•

Let the bowl sit for a few hours (approximately 12 hours or so) then gently pry it off the mold. Contin-

Collect everything that you can use for your tree:

ue drying it until it’s ready for use!

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134 comMtalk

01 stained class window project 02 recycled paper bowl 03 button tree 04 calming jar

A Calming Jar | Any child will have fun creating this bright calming jar. It’s so easy to make. What You’ll Need: Jar/ glass jar /mason jar | Glitter glue | Glitter | Warm water •

Squeeze some glitter glue into the jar.

•

Pour very warm water inside. The water must be almost hot so the glitter glue doesn’t clump up.

•

Shake some glitters into the jar to give it a nice sparkle.

•

Seal the jar by twisting on the cap tightly.

Let your child shake up the jar to mix the ingredients. Keep it by her bedside so she can grab and shake it anytime she wants. — (IM)

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135

KIDZANIA:

L ife + S t y le

THE ULTIMATE ROLE-PLAYING

It’s the perfect play center for kids with a big imagination, preparing them for the real world.

“

hat do you want to be when you grow up?”

ing activity where they can choose from among a hun-

That probably is a staple question and it’s a

dred careers offered, including a journalist, pilot, chef

question that children don’t seem to get tired

and yes, even a rock star.

of answering. After all, they may want to be astronauts

But it’s not just the thrill of donning a fireman outfit or

now, but ask them tomorrow or the week after, and the

a nurse’s uniform that awaits. The city will also have a

answer may be a teacher or a pop star.

functioning economy where children can purchase items

Blame it on their hyperactive imagination. It has been

or pay for services using KidZos (the official currency of

noted in several studies that make-believe and role-play-

KidZania), which they can earn. It’s actually an ingenious

ing not only provide distraction and entertainment, but

approach in instilling the value of money in kids. With

also contribute immensely to their development. In a

how it is earned and how it is spent, it’s an early crash

report published in Psychology Today, writer Scott Barry

course on money management, something that parents

Kaufman cited the study of psychologist Sandra Russ,

may just be interested in.

saying that “pretend play allows the expression of both

A brainchild of Mexican entrepreneur Xavier Lopez

positive and negative feelings, and the modulation of

Anacona, KidZania first opened a branch in Mexico in

affect, the ability to integrate emotion with cognition.”

1999. Since then the flagship location has attracted al-

Taking on different roles allows children the unique op-

most 10 million children and several branches (13 loca-

portunity to learn social skills, such as communication,

tions in 10 countries) worldwide including Indonesia, Ma-

problem solving, and empathy.”

laysia, India and Japan.

Imagine what will happen if kids are given free reign

Kidzania Philippines is a local counterpart that prom-

on an entire city, where they not only hold jobs, but actu-

ises to provide a “city” that’s more or less similar to a typ-

ally earn and spend their own money.

ical Filipino community.

It is this very concept that KidZania, an edutainment

In fact in a report published in ABS-CBN Interactive,

(educational entertainment) center, is bringing to the

KidZania’s “Governor” and Play Innovations Inc. Presi-

Philippines. Located in Bonifacio Global City, this theme

dent Chief Executive Officer Maricel Pangilinan-Arenas

park will be a scaled down city where children from four

said that KidZania Philippines will also include careers in

to fourteen years old can indulge their imagination and

agricultural and fisheries sectors; even having activities

creativity enhance their skills. It’s the ultimate role play-

that focus on disaster preparation. With the current obsession of parents on starting their

Indeed, it’s an early crash course on money management, something that parents may just be interested in.

children young, KidZania may just provide the right atmosphere to make them ready for the real world. — (MB)

KidZania is located in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

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136 comMtalk

Kidzania Fun Facts: • Kidzania is an 80,000 square foot city scaled down two thirds in height to suit children. • The official currency of Kidzania is called kidZos. Each child is rewarded with every job they perform. First timers can even open their own personal savings account at the Kidzania bank. With it, they can withdraw their credits to play, shop or save up for future visits. • There are a hundred roles in Kidzania and over sixty establishments to choose from. Here are some to name a few: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Pilot Television Anchor Police Officer Chef Fireman Banker Dentist Engineer Accountant Teacher Journalist Radio DJ Cashier File clerk Beauty Therapist Businessman Veterinarian Baker Theater Staff Doctor Surgeon Nurse Photographer Construction Worker

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137

L ife + S t y le

Design:

Play with cleverly-designed functional furniture to put your own personal touch and style.

Economics of Home Furnishing

TABLES (Living room, dining)

he beauty of working with a bare space, such as an unfurnished condominium unit or a brand new

HIGH

house, is in the excitement selecting home fur-

END

Cattelan Italia | direct at www.cattelanitalia.com Noir | direct at www.noirfurniturela.com/ Arketipo | direct at www.arketipo.com/en/

nishings bring. Go wild with cutting edge, eclectic, and bold designs, or stick to the traditional with subdued yet classic pieces, shades and shapes. The canvas is waiting .

MId-END

Dimensione | Bonifacio Global City, Trinoma Loft Details | Bonifacio Global City, Trinoma

Whatever your budget may be, you only have to find the perfect mix of furnishings that will marry aesthetics, functionality and practicality: three important elements

Entry

Lorenz Furniture | direct at http://lorenzfurniture.com/

in achieving tasteful and effective interiors. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; (NC)

Level

Cellini | Blims Furniture, Greenbelt, Bonifacio Global City SylPaulJoyce | direct at www.sylpauljoyce.com.ph/

Shed some light and set the mood with the right fixtures to complement your interior.

i l l u st ra t i o n s I d r. M ar i a E i l e e n L . L i m

138 comMtalk

Lighting Fixtures CHAIRS HIGH END

(Ceiling/Drop Lights / FLoor and desklamps)

Brabbu | direct at Porta Galleria, www.portagalleria.com/ Kenneth Cobonpue | Kenneth Cobonpue Manila, Greenbelt

HIGH END

Artemide • Flos • Foscarini • Kartell • Slamp | Spazio T70 Koket • Slpam • Porta Romana

Busnelli | Spazio T70, www.facebook.com/spaziot70 MId-END

Celestina Home | celestinamaynilanewyork.com

MId-END

Dimensione • BoConcept • Azcor

Boconcept | Bonifacio Global City Dexterton | Sgt. E Rivera St., QC Entry Level

Entry

That One Piece • Shell Arts Co.

Level

Firma • Locsin International

Pier 1 Imports Funktionell Furniture | Market Market! Muji | Greenbelt, Bonifacio Global City

interior Tips and tricks Couches/Living Room Furniture HIGH END

Koket | Porta Galleria Bernini | Spazio T70 Living Divani | Spazio T70

MId-END

Maestro | Blims Furniture La-Z Boy | Blims Furniture

Entry

Play and Display | Glorietta, Greenhills

Level

Space Encounters | Ortigas, www.spaceencounters.net/ Grassroots | Greenbelt, Rustan’s Alabang, Rustan’s Makati Heima | Brixton, Kapitolyo; LRI Plaza, Bel-Air

Tables now come with different finishes and materials, including repurposed and upcycled wood which has a lot of character. Join the green movement and opt for functional and beautiful pieces that have a lower carbon footprint. Ask your furniture store for tables that are made from environment-friendly material.

Chairs can easily be conversation starters if you pick one in an interesting shape, color or texture. Make sure to buy chairs that are ergonomic to avoid strain. Some chairs aggravate posture problems, so not only is design important, but also ergonomics and comfort.

Couches and living room furniture bring people together. When shopping for sofas or couches, scour the showrooms for convertible furniture configurations that your guests can move around. Your living room appointments should allow your guests to socialize and mingle with each other.

Ceiling mounted lighting fixtures tie the space together by creating an interesting accent. Not only are droplights functional, but they also add to the mood of the space. There are cheap and interesting lighting fixtures available in the market: you just have to pick a design that suits your fancy, and will contribute to the overall impact of your interiors.

Lighting fixtures must comply with

Adding personal touches to your room not only complements the area but also gives off that homey laid-back feel.

safety and environmental standards. The movement for greener and more energy efficient light bulbs has been well on its way. When choosing fixtures to illuminate your desk and an area in the house, make sure to select high output bulbs. A good place to start looking will be the new line of energy efficient LED lights that have penetrated the market.

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L ife + S t y le

Design: Curating your own workspace

Create your own personal work space to set the perfect balance between business and leisure

ith the convenience of technology today,

lessen the mess of wires and cables. Don’t forget that

many professionals set their own time

organization extends to your digital files as well, and

and pace at work, allowing a better work-

be diligent in performing backups.

life balance. Here are a few tips that can help you set up your work space:

POWER UP | No matter what kind of work you do or what work space you have, it’s important to have

PURPOSE DRIVEN | Establishing the purpose of your

enough power outlets to accommodate your needs.

office will make it easier for you to arrange your space.

Look for extension plugs that have a surge protector

Why are you putting up your own work space? Will it

and individual power switches for each socket. Don’t

be your main office or an auxiliary one? Will it be a

forget to unplug the devices that you’re not using to

private office, or will you be meeting clients here?

save electricity and lessen the chance of a short circuit.

KEEP DISTRACTIONS AWAY | Separate areas and di-

PERSONALIZE YOUR SPACE | Place a few key pieces

viders also help keep distractions at bay, ensuring that

around your work space to inspire you. This could be

your work area will remain professional.

a print of your favorite artwork, a figurine, or a photo of your loved ones.

LET THERE BE LIGHT | A dark and musty office is never inspiring, so keep your work area well-lighted

ESTABLISH BOUNDARIES | Keep clear guidelines of

and well-ventilated. Using natural-like lights are also

what you can and cannot do in your office. It would be

a great option if placing your work area by a win-

ideal to keep this space specifically for work, and leave

dow isn’t possible. An air purifier can also help keep

other things out. — (KS)

your work area fresh. Keep the temperatures to a comfortable level too. DAUB ON COLOR | Studies show that color can affect

Uncover possibilities and be inspired by the economic po-

a person’s mood. Red and orange signify energy and

tential in these premium headquarters rising among the

action, while blue and brown are believed to encour-

most prominent addresses in the country:

age people to be more focused or productive. Yellow and other bright colors on the other hand, are said to

BGC: Park Triangle Corporate Plaza | Park

be distracting. However, choosing colors that you like,

Triangle’s Hub for Inspired Organizations. A strategic loca-

regardless of what science or popular opinion says, is

tion with unmatched accessibility—perfect for a city where life

often the best for you. Pick a palette that’s pleasing,

converges. At a pivotal spot in Bonifacio Global City, Park Tri-

and combine two to three colors for variety.

angle Corporate Plaza brings together contemporary workscapes in a stylish business address, piercing the skyline of the

COMFORT IS KEY | Most professionals spend hours

country’s progressive and creative lifestyle district.

sitting in front of a desk or computer. Aside from resting your eyes and stretching every once in a while, in-

Cebu: BPI Cebu Corporate Center | Innovative

vest in ergonomic furniture that will lessen the strain

Workscapes in Cebu’s Landmark Address. Soaring to new

on your body after hours of hard work.

heights, BPI Cebu Corporate Center is Alveo Land’s first office condominium in the Southern Philippines. As the only devel-

STAY ORGANIZED | One of the challenges of any of-

opment in Cebu to launch professional work spaces available

fice is keeping clutter to a minimum. It’s distracting

for ownership, this iconic tower elevates you to the top of the

and can slow down productivity. Containers keep

Southern Philippines’ number one business address.

your items in place, things like zip ties or velcro loops

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These offices were designed to be functional as it is sleek and contemporary. This balances the importance between an appealing set up and a good working environment. 01 Alexy Zarodov 02 andrey avdeenko 03 magda Biernat 04 michael oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;callahan 04 Daici Ano

05 dirk weiblen

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For more information on BPI Cebu Corporate Center: (6332) 417.1777 (Cebu) â&#x20AC;˘ (632) 848.5100 (Manila) Visit our showroom at the 3/F The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu HLURB License to Sell No. 0040 | Rufino Hermann S. Gutierrez PRC-REBL No. 0004771

771

The proposal | Blue prints, scale models and timelines. Representing the winning strategy

styling ryuji shiomitsu assisted by danica familara, austin cortiguerra & aldrin ramos

words ANDREA LYNN HEChANOVA photography CHRIS YUHICO

will always be jey above all else.

makeup chinky tanjangco hair Michelle Osmena models Jeremy Blake & Hye Won Jang

investing in style

L ife + S t y le

Aspiration walks into the door and fills every corner with potential. She communicates opportunities with every call. Timelines are the sequence. Projects are the scene. Investing in success has never looked so good.

ON HIM: Gray plaid suit and trousers both by Melchor Guinto, White Dress shirt by Melchor Guinto and Bow tie by AC+632 | ON HER: Waistcoat Dress by MicK Perez and Strappy heels by Primadonna | Bang & Olfusen BEOCOMM 6000

ON HIM: Gray plaid suit and trousers both by Melchor Guinto, White Dress shirt by Melchor Guinto and Bow tie by AC+632. | ON HER: Waistcoat Dress by MicK Perez | LED TV by BeoVision 10 available at Bang & Olufsen Unit 2326- 2327 G/F Greenbelt 5, Legaspi Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City

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THE ASSEMBLY | Business involves people. Staying in sync as a team is essential for progress.

ON HER: Lace bustier top, white gazar Kimono cropped jacket and highwaisted trousers all by Rosenthal Tee | LED TV by BeoVision 10, Phone by BeoCom 6000 available at Bang & Olufsen Unit 2326- 2327 G/F Greenbelt 5, Legaspi Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City Manila

Corporate Class | Work smart not only means delivering tasks efficiently, but presenting projects in a timeless fashion.

ON HER: Pina dress shirt by Jian Lasala and black gazar highwaisted wide leg trousers by Rosenthal Tee

Welcome Home to Living Well Every Alveo Land development –vibrant neighborhoods, groundbreaking living solutions, master planned communities –nurtures individuals and hard-earned investments with a singular vision: giving you a place for living well.

BGC/Taguig Two Serendra High Street South Park Triangle The Veranda at Arca South Makati City The Columns Ayala Avenue The Columns Legazpi Village Senta The Lerato Kroma Tower Escala Salcedo Solstice at Circuit Makati

Pasig City Ametta Place Portico Quezon City Ferndale Villas High Park at Vertis North Pampanga Marquee Place Marquee Residences Tagaytay City Kasa Luntian

Manila Celadon Residences Celadon Park

For Inquiries in the Philippines: Within Metro Manila, you may call +63 2 848 5100

Laguna Verdana Homes Mamplasan Treveia NUVALI Venare NUVALI Mirala NUVALI Lumira NUVALI Cavite Verdana Homes Bacoor Verdana Village Center Westborough Cebu City Sedona Parc Solinea BPI Cebu Corporate Center Davao City Abreeza Residences Abreeza Place

For International Inquiries: In Singapore, you may call + 65 6733 6300 In the USA, our toll free hotline is 1 855 myAYALA (692 9252)

Outside of Metro Manila, you may call 1 0800 10 848 5100

In other countries, please dial your International Gateway Number +855 myAYALA (692 9252)

Visit our showrooms at the following locations: Lifescapes by Alveo (BGC) ALVEO Corporate Center 728 28th Street Bonifacio Global City 1634 Taguig City Lifescapes by Alveo (Ayala Center) G/F Greenbelt 3 Ayala Center, Makati City Lifescapes by Alveo (Circuit) Circuit Makati A.P. Reyes Avenue, Makati City

Lifescapes by Alveo (Portico) Capt. Henry P. Javier Street, Oranbo, Pasig City

Lifescapes by Alveo (NUVALI) Nuvali Evoliving Center Santa Rosa City, Laguna

High Park at Vertis North 3/F Trinoma Mall Mindanao Ave., Quezon City

Kasa Luntian Solenad 2 NUVALI, Laguna

Lifescapes by Alveo (Manila) G/F Vertex One, Celadon Manila Felix Huertas Street, Sta. Cruz Manila

Lifescapes by Alveo (Cebu) 3/F Ayala Center Cebu Cebu Park District, Cebu City

nfo@alveoland.com.ph | www.alveoland.com.ph |

: AlveoLand |

Solinea 3/F The Terraces, Ayala Center Cebu Cebu Park District, Cebu CIty Lifescapes by Alveo (Davao) G/L Abreeza Mall, JP Laurel Avenue Bajada, Davao City

: @alveo_land