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PRELUDE
TO SUMMER:
INTERIORS,
GETAWAYS,
The sunny side of build-your-own EVENTS
MARCH 2007 P150
Published by
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editor’s note
Beauty and Bliss in High Living
The heat is on
Carlomar Arcangel Daoana
Editor in chief
Chrysler de Guzman
Art director
B
Godwin Nerona
Layout artist y now, you must be dreaming of escaping to the
beach, getting a tan and dipping into the cool embrace
Sharline Bareng
Senior staff writer of the sea—that is, if you haven’t done it yet.
Summer, announced by a bit of chill in early February,
Benhur Arcayan
Chief photographer
comes raging to the fore, dispelling gloomy moods and
dispositions (hopefully).
Dexter R. dela Cruz But before you pack your luggage and hie off or jet-set to
Editorial assistant
your summer destination, be sure that you have ticked all the
Arnold A. Altamira items in your safety checklist and know by heart the things to
Editorial CONSULTANT
do once emergency strikes.
In this issue, we are offering to you helpful suggestions
from authorities and fellow condo dwellers on how to deal
Contributors
with disasters, small or otherwise. We are also blowing the
whistle on enterprising individuals who claim to be interior
Atty. John Philip Siao designers without the license and the degree. There’s also a handy article that deals on
Cita Abad-Dinglasan
Renne Isidro how to make your condo safe for the little ones. Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo, mom to cute
columnists Jacobo, has a couple of tips for you.
As always, Condo Central teems with the latest and the hotest, and for this issue,
Johanna Acab-Faustino
Geraldine Cuason we are cranking the heat-o-meter even higher. Feast your eyes on one-of-a-kind accesso-
Roel Hoang Manipon ries by Arnel Papa, dazzling sheets from Debenhams, exquisite glassware from Muebles
Dr. Adelaida V. Mayo
Jenny Orillos Italiano and an award-winning sofa from FURNItalia.
Glaiza Seguia For our cover story, we herald the sunny development that is currently being built at
Arch. Felicisimo Tejuco the Fort Global City: the Fort Palm Spring. With an underlying build-your-own concept, it
Writers
is inspired by the Palm Springs in California, nothing but the postcard-perfect image of
Lucky Besa summer.
Pranz Kaeno Billones Make the most out of this season. And though the beach remains a top-of-mind
Photographers
choice as a summer get-away, perhaps this is also the best time too to get to know the
cultural and artistic life of the metro. Ayala Museum and the Met easily come to mind.
Cherie Mae Ayongao So sizzle and savor!
Sales and Marketing Director
Editha B. Ignacio
Cyd V. Ponce
Rain Santos
Account executives
74
Vol. I No. 6 Beauty and Bliss in High Living
March 2007
is published by
www.condo.com.ph
The Condominium Specialist
36
Daniel R. dela Cruz
President/CEO
Bing Lau
Executive vice president
50
Reginald Tagavilla
Vice president - PROJECT SALES
Andy Bellajaro
Vice president - Global sales
contents
Liza Razon
OPERATIONS MANAGER I n E ve r y I ss u e
98 SURVEY
is published monthly Peripheral mission Arnold A. Altamira
by Condo.Com.Ph, Inc.; 2nd Floor P&L
Building, 116 Legazpi St., Legaspi 82 CONDO GUIDE
Village, Makati City, Philippines; Tel.
Nos. (632)812-3333 Fax No. (632)893-
Your condominium hypermarket
8134; E-mail admin@condocentral.
com.ph; Website www.condocentral. 90 CENTRAL MARKET
com.ph.- All rights reserved. Opinions Classified ads
expressed in Condo Central are solely
those of writers and are not necessarily
endorsed by Condo.Com.Ph, Inc. We
100 REFLECTIONS
welcome unsolicited manuscripts and OFW Notes Cita Abad-Dinglasan
photographs. Kindly accompany a self-
addressed stamped envelope if they are 95 OPINION
to be returned. While every reasonable Condo Café Renne Isidro
care will be taken by the editor, no
responsibility is assumed for the said
materials. 103 PEOPLE AND EVENTS
Fort Palm Spring inaugurates model unit; Sunsilk,
Advertising hotline: (632)812-3333 and Gain Plus make noise
Distributed by 104 EYE CANDY
Christian Commercial Corp.
Tel. Nos. (632)521-6118, 522-3633 Life on a high note
Fax No. (632)521-7674
54 38
62
C O V E R S T O RY
64 16
54 Fort Palm Spring: The sunny side of the Fort
First Global BYO Corp.’s initial project brings the luxury of condo living without the hefty price tag
F E A T UR E S
26 REVEAL 44 REPORT 42 TIPS 74 SOAR
Romantic reasons not to leave the How safe is your home?: Assessment of Childproofing your condo: Make your Sky High: In the hot-air balloon activity held
bed: Cuddle someone under the sheets from condominium homes in the metropolis unit suitable for the little ones at Subic, sky’s the limit
Debenhams Mundane pleasure at the foot of the
48 TIPS 28 HIGHLIGHT mystic mountain: Relax in a bed and
16 FURNITURE FEATURE Make electricity your friend:Electrical Design coup in the works: How breakfast under the shadow of Banahaw
Sofa, so good: What design magazine safety tips from the bureau of fire protection designers are putting some oomph into
Wallpaper considers as the best sofa in the Manila FAME 96 CONDO MEMO
world 40 PERSPECTIVE When motherhood becomes me: How
Beware of illegal interior designers: 38 MAN ON TOP a woman’s life was transformed when a new
64 COVERAGE How, by hiring them, Fil-Am guy is real estate’s rising roommate moved in: her daughter
China calling: Exhibits that you are cutting corners on safety star: Meet Ronald Vergara who is soon to
point toward China as heritage make groundbreaking changes in the real 50 Spotlight
and inspiration estate industry Driving home a point: Romero Quimbo,
Pag-IBIG Fund president and CEO, the man
62 COOKING FOR ONE 36 DEVELOPMENT who makes your dream house
A (local) Asian food trip: Feast your Art Deco as inspiration: Eastwood
senses on the region’s sumptuous offerings LeGrand nods at the architectural idea which
New York embodies
60 INVESTMENT
The sun rises for Suzu-Kin: Putting 72 COMMUNITY
28
some twist in Japanese Wow Cubao!: How this corner in Quezon
City is getting a makeover
14 ENTERTAINING
Stunning clarity:Get to know Cive: the
gold standard in glassware
entertaining
Stunning clarity
Get to know Cive—the poetic glassware from Italy which employs age-old
crafting techniques, infused with the gesture and energy of human hands
A
t this day and age where modern methods and
techniques of mass production dictate the laws of
the market, there are still a discriminating few who
choose tradition over technology and timelessness
over trends. Such a company steeped in the ways of the Old
World is called Cive, a glassware crafting company who
employs prestigious collaborators in international design
such as Philippe Starck, Marturano and Renzo Piano.
The Italian brand, founded in the 1950s, was initiated
as a cooperative of glass masters from Empoli, a Tuscan
city in one of the top historic districts known for the art
and culture of glass. Handcrafting and artisan techniques
express the poetics of Cive, light years away from the logic
of mass serial production. Cive believes in the “living”
aspect of human action, that it is the hands and the spirit
of the glassmaker which brings authentic quality to the
pieces. Cive stresses that it is the poetry of the amazing
uniqueness born of an individual talent, an idea and a
specific sensibility which makes all these awe-inspiring
glass creations possible.
“Dining becomes a completely different experience
with Cive glassware because each piece is expertly made
by master glassmakers who have been trained in the firm
traditions and fine craftsmanship of their glassmaking
ancestors,” Muebles Italiano President Noel Gonzales, the
distributor of Cive in the Philippines, comments.
Cive’s varied design landscape expresses styles that
move from the essential to the subtly classic to hints of the
rustic, often drawing inspiration from the local color and
rural ways of the Tuscan countryside. Through intricate
processes such as gilding or the process of decorating
glass by firing on gold, silver or copper leaf, Cive produces
charming glassware that is inspired, delightful and unique.
Finding its perfect place in the home, Cive graces rooms
with original contrasts and balanced harmony.
A graceful collec-
tion of matching wine
glasses and decanter
with soft, sinuous
lines, Ginevra is crafted
by master glassmakers
in transparent mouth-
blown glass.
An elegant series of
objects in clear glass,
Camargue is painstak-
ingly lightened with a
hand-applied platinum
or gold decoration.
Sofa, so good
Get to know the sofa adjudged as the best by the most influential design magazine in the world
I
nternational design magazine Wallpaper*, FURNitalia managing director Florence Ko comments.
the most authoritative and influential According to design magazine Wallpaper*, the Kennedee sofa “secured
design magazine in the world, has given its position as best sofa with a clean majority.” “Upholstered in the
the Best Sofa Award to Poltrona Frau’s finest leather, and balanced on steel feet with a gun metal finish, it’s the
Kennedee model in the recent Wallpaper* perfect blend of glamour, comfort, practicality and beauty.”
Design Awards 2007. Kennedee, designed by Kennedee is further described by Poltrona Frau as a sofa with
Jean Marie-Massaud, is now available at the a personality that stands out from the crowd. It possesses an
country’s exclusive distributor of upscale international elegance, with dynamic and wide-ranging lines
Italian furniture brands, FURNitalia. The chic that can be configured in an infinite number of combinations. Its
three-storey lifestyle store at The Fort, also different elements allow the free creation of curving lines and open
adjudged the Temple of Italian Style in the perspectives. The light and modern quilting of the back cushions, and
Philippines, has been bringing the world’s best the hand-sewn “X” motif also reveals Poltrona Frau’s age old artisan
furniture to Filipinos of a particular taste. skills. It recalls the old-fashioned capitonne technique with its small,
“We Filipinos recognize what constitutes equidistant x-stitches on both the backrest and seat cushions. The
good design and good quality because we are workmanship of this sofa remains artisanal, while the design and
very finicky. At FURNitalia, all the brands on materials are contemporary.
offer have the same respect for craftsmanship
as we do, that is why people who want only FURNitalia is located at 30th St. Corner Rizal Drive, Crescent Park, West
the best come to us for their furniture needs,” Bonifacio Global City. Call 819-1887.
SM Mall of Asia, 2nd Level, Main Mall ● SM Makati Annex ● SM North Edsa,
The Block, 2nd Level ● SM Mega A and selected SM Department Stores
designer’s corner
W
with you a few tricks designers employ to make spaces seem larger.
ith today’s urban population growth and economic central
districts pervading our society, condominium living space 1. The astonishing illusionary effect of a mirror. Mirrors,
provides a good alternative to the luxury of living in one’s because of their reflective quality, add depth to a room. Placing a
space that is likewise in proximity to places of work, leisure mirrored wall adjacent to the entry wall immediately doubles a narrow
and activity. More and more condominiums are being erected, which space. When a mirror is placed on a wall, it appears to push walls
only signal the rising demand of new living to fit the requirements of further out, most especially if you put focal decorative pieces such
the contemporary Filipino. as interesting accent pieces, wall lights or even unique ceiling lights
One thing that condominiums rarely provide is the adequacy of space. in front of the mirror which tend to create double images. This will
Nowadays, space has become a precious upshot as more people prefer living not only add depth to a room, but will emphasize the creative details
in condos, for safety, security and practical reasons. Because of the reality of a placed in the interior.
compact and compartmentalized space that condos provide, it is only necessary Should you decide to put a mirror, consider using a black mirror.
to consider ways to maximize all the areas of a unit to complement it with one’s It enlarges the space without the glare and creates a mood that is
needs without sacrificing the potential of high rise dwellings to foster a mood romantic, subtle and light, paired off with furniture pieces that likewise
of airiness, simplicity and comfort. Indeed, every space, no matter how small expand the space. If you opt on putting partitions, try frosted glass or
it is, has a great power to convey expanse, light and space. How? Let me share any other translucent material which tend to give a feeling that there is
more depth beyond what the eye can immediately see.
18 MARCH 2007 CondoCentral
In this project, a
unique and customized
type of ceiling lamp
extends all the way to
the mirror to suggest
depth was used.
2. The comfort, look and feel of your furniture. For small spaces,
consider using dual purpose furniture and those that appear to take up
less space and make your eyes move around the interior. The use of glass
and mirror mixed with metals such as steel and chrome for furniture
pieces such as coffee tables, console tables and side tables, to name a
few will definitely be a good trick to expand a small space. Bulky and
heavy furniture should be avoided because it will tend to stunt your
eyes to further appreciate all elements in a room. Furniture, though
small should be comfortable to use. Consider light colored pieces over
dark ones to give the space an illusion of more light and space.
3. Spark it with color. This is 5. Let there be light. Situate your ceiling lights on areas where
perhaps the most important element activities are centered. Whoever said that pin lights have to be
to consider in small spaces. Color has located only at the four corners of the room? A good way to stimulate
the intrinsic gift of creating certain interaction and activity will be to locate your ceiling lights where
moods and illusions to any given you want interaction to take place. Table lamps and stand lamps
space. The best way to achieve a are also significant elements in a space. Consider lamp bases that
feeling of expansiveness is through are made out of glass or any reflective materials. Avoid common
the use of monochromatic color looking lamps and consider investing in good conversational
scheme. A single color in varying pieces. After all, the smaller the space is, the more you should be
gradations from dark to light discriminating on what goes in it.
used in an interior space creates a
harmonious interior look in a small 6. Highlight with window treatments and soft furnishings.
space. If pale and neutral colors are Complete the expansive look with choosing window treatments that
used for walls, it will appear that enlarge window space. If you have the budget, opt for louver-effect
walls are further pushed out. One roll up shades, vertical blinds or curtains that have a clean, tailored
can add to this illusion by using look using sheer and solid colored fabrics. Avoid too much pattern as
light colored flooring materials this will contradict the feeling of expanse that you want to achieve.
and accentuating it with certain
pieces and accessories within the These are only some of the many ways to make a space seem
interior to widen the floor space. larger. With proper space planning and interior decorative
treatments, one can experience exhilarating joy in designing
Concealed lighting is 4. Remember your ceiling. compact spaces. Like a canvas that awaits the stroke of the brush
employed in this hallway to Gone are the days of neglecting the of the painter, so it is with an empty space awaiting to be filled up
add width to the otherwise dimension that is above you. Visual
narrow passage way.
interest is optimized when there
is decorative balance perceived as Johanna Acab-Faustino is a member of the
Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) and
the eyes travel from the floor, to Council of Interior Design Educators (CIDE). She
the walls and the ceiling. Dropped is currently a faculty member of the Department
of Clothing, Textiles and Interior Design of the
ceiling with controlled illumination College of Home Economics, University of the
for concealed lighting is also a good Philippines, Diliman Quezon City, from where she
graduated Cum Laude. Aside from teaching, she is
trick to expand space. Use it on also actively involved in designing residential and
hallways, or corners of a space that commercial interiors.
tends to be neglected.
W
ith the limits of space and density, One Sapphire is only 10 minutes away
condominium living has almost become from the Makati and Ortigas Central
synonymous to living inside a box. With such Business Districts, and is within reach
a space, arranging one’s belongings is of major establishments, malls, schools
like piecing a jigsaw puzzle and learning to live and hospitals.
with that drawback. Veering away from the boxed
For the urban dweller who wants his money’s worth, concept of the modern condominium
R.J. Lhinet Development Corp. has just the answer: that most of us have come to know too
spacious bi-level units of the One Sapphire Condominium well, One Sapphire provides a breath of
in the heart of Mandaluyong City, planned and designed to fresh air in this part
address the need for affordable residential homes. of the metropolis.
Rising at six floors, One Sapphire is one of the tallest Come home to One
structures in Mandaluyong, with its 94 bi-level or walk- Sapphire and feel
up units going as high as 2.3 meters with wall, floor and that for yourself.
ceiling finishes, providing residents with the comforts
and privacy of a modern house. One bedroom units at Model units are
33.59 sq.m are available for as low as P1.2 million, while available for viewing
the three bedroom type takes up 75.8 sq.m for only P3.6 at the One Sapphire
million. Its structural steel frame systems and strong Condominium’s site
interior and exterior reinforcing insure a strong, durable, in Mandaluyong City.
and acoustically sound interior wall system and leak For inquiries, please
resistant exterior wall. call 723-1616.
Designed to be a low density community, One Sapphire
is a refuge for those who need privacy without going far.
This Mediterranean-inspired community also provides a
good venue for relaxation and leisure with its recreational
area and mini gym at the ground floor.
Conveniently located near the Mandaluyong City Hall,
Why settle for a loft unit when you can afford two floors?
AMENITIES
Swimming pool
Whirlpool
Children’s playground
Mini gym
Snack bar
CONDO FEATURES
24-hour security
1 passenger elevator
Beddings
with embroidered
prints:50 percent
cotton and 50
percent polyester.
Romantic reasons
not to leave the bed
Tumble into the sheets of love with the latest beddings, pillowcases and towels from Debenhams
A
romantic interlude need not be in that no one will ever want to get out of bed.
some far-off imagined place accessible Romance resides even in the most unexpected
only in the minds of dreamers. After of details, in everyday items done in petal-soft
all, love is not so much an occasion fabrics—such as Debenhams’ luxury, reversible
but a state of being, one that we take with natural-colored bath mats, or theme statement
us everywhere we go. A house becomes a towels made from 100 percent cotton. Wrap
home when lovers dwell therein: spend lazy yourself in soft, luxurious 100 percent Egyptian
afternoons together wrapped in Debenhams’ cotton towels which also provide maximum
delicately embroidered Jasmine beddings, absorbency. Gestures of affection, after all, are
made of equal parts cotton and polyester and best when unexpected.
luxuriously filled with duck feathers and down.
Charlotte pillowcases, duck feather and down- Debenhams is located at Rustan’s Makati and
filled quilt seem lifted right out of a calm Shangri-La Mall.
morning sea. Perhaps, the only trouble here is
D
o you know how difficult it is for an overweight uses infrared technology to stimulate circulation and achieve the
individual to exercise? Or for a hearty eater to diet? body’s optimal metabolic state. Your body burns calories faster as
When an overweight person exercises, his heart rate your metabolic rate increases, yet the only thing you feel is pleasant
accelerates very rapidly because of all the extra weight he warmth all over your body.” Zunic therapists mention that some
carries. Unless he’s been exercising regularly, he actually puts clients actually doze off during their Metabolique sessions.
himself at risk from heart failure. From there, Zunic clients can move on to CelluFree, CelluAvant,
And every one knows how agonizing it is to deprive AccuTone or Contourage treatments.
yourself of food, if you love to eat! So that if you put on weight “But because no two people are alike, no two Zunic programs
and decided to lose it, your only other options (until very are the same,” concludes Ms. Sarthou. “Every one has problem ar-
recently) were to take diet pills or to undergo painful surgery. eas they would like to target, and we make sure our programs are
Fortunately, advances in medical technology now make it individually-tailored to meet a client’s personal objectives.”
possible to lose weight and actually shape your figure without Opened in September 2006 at the Olympia Towers in Makati
exercise, dieting, pills, injections or painful surgery. Avenue, Zunic has a full complement of trained personnel to address
“What we’ve done is to bring in the latest technology from the needs of its exclusive clientele. Pre-treatment medical checks are
overseas, and apply it to the problems associated with obesity performed by licensed physicians, and all treatments are conducted
and overeating”, says Roxanne Sarthou, managing director by qualified nursing staff.
of the state-of-the-art slimming center known as Zunic. “We The slimming programs are determined from results taken
help people lose weight so that they can begin exercising if during pre-treatment consultations, where clients undergo a
they want to, and whether they wish to modify their eating thorough interview with the in-house doctor. Areas that require
habits or not.” treatment are identified, and high-tech weighing scales measure
At Zunic, weight loss is conducted without the sweating, not only the client’s body fat, but also water composition, muscle
anxiety, and pain associated with percentage and bone mass.
traditional methods. A Zunic client Because of its effortless, relaxed approach
stretches out comfortably on a to eliminating unwanted pounds and excess
plush treatment couch, and fat is fat, Zunic is a favorite among busy people
literally melted away using a variety who want to shape their bodies with as
of sophisticated equipment that little fuss as possible. Slimming at Zunic
employ heat, laser light, radio waves, is something to look forward to, not
and mechanical articulation to non- only for its immediate results, but for its
invasively reach under the skin and proven effectiveness.
dissolve stubborn fat deposits.
Up to 48 hours after treatment, You can visit Zunic at the Upper Ground
fat is excreted through normal body Floor, Olympia Towers, 7912 Makati Avenue,
functions, with no side effects except Makati City 1200 or you can call 752-0600 or
for a profound thirst. 752-0601 and discover what Zunic can do
“We start by restoring a client’s for you. Please look for Ms. Nora Icaro or
ideal metabolic rate with our Ms. Roxanne Sarthou. You can also e-mail
Metabolique treatment”, Roxanne zunicphils@gmail.com.
Sarthou continues. “This machine
www.condo.com.ph
For inquiries and viewing request:
CALL NOW (632) 812-3333
Welcome to the
center of things
C
onvenience is the key to living in the modern Centropolis combines the elements of
world, where one has to keep up with fast-paced, an ideal residential setting, complete with
rapidly changing lifestyles. One needs to be at commercial facilities and amenities in its
the center in order to remain on top of things. four low rise cluster buildings. Designed
TKRL Realty and Development Corp. sees that need and to provide residents’ needs all in one place,
strives to make it possible for the modern homeowner on Centropolis maintains a tranquil setting
the go with the Centropolis Communities, a one hectare, with its contemporary Asian architecture
self-contained community in Sucat, Muntinlupa City. and lush landscape. This is evident in its
Art Deco
as inspiration
A grand comeback
Art Deco makes the grandest comeback here in Manila
with the launch of the 38-storey Eastwood LeGrand. Its
grills feature stainless steel prominently. Cheerful yellow
hues give it a vibrant façade. All windows are tinted to
give the entire building a modern edge. The windows are bounded Eastwood
by plain white trims reminiscent of the signature architecture that LeGrand’s
impressive lobby
makes the Empire State Building famous worldwide. features modern
Just as the Chrysler Building is renowned for its Art Deco spire, French designs,
Eastwood LeGrand’s decorative molding on its very top is an lending a luxurious
welcome to
elegant art form in itself. Large, geometric stonework adorns its residents everyday.
columns, while grayish-brown grillwork beautifies the lower
floors up to the podium. Of course, the best French designs are The Empire
featured in the grand lobby, lending a luxurious welcome to State Building is
a towering icon
residents everyday. of the Art Deco
“The design of Eastwood LeGrand is really modern and movement.
cutting-edge. Investors and homebuyers have just but one
chance to live in a building that is a genuine work of art,” The stepped
Natividad declared. spire of the Chrysler
Building is famous
the world over.
Visit the Eastwood City Information Center along Eastwood
City’s Orchard Road to check out its new model units.
Condo Central gets to meet Ronald Vergara, the Chicago-based Fil-Am real
estate broker, who is returning to the country to deliver an invigorating jolt to the
local construction and property industry
38 MARCH 2007 CondoCentral
R
onald Vergara strikes one as indomitable. With a built of a football Knowing the Fil-Am market by heart (after all, he is one of them),
player and a hulking countenance, tempered with the charm and Vergara has left no stone unturned, studying carefully and addressing
wit of a TV show host, he seems to effortlessly wield great strength their needs and specifications, comfortable as they are with US standards.
and power. But Vergara channels the energy not on any sports field He looks into the four areas that will greatly influence the investor’s choice:
but on the corporate arena, closing deals (usually in millions of dollars) in service, safety/security, sanitation and surroundings.
a matter of seconds. “Our strategy is to instill a customer-centered approach to all our
His resume, needless to say, is daunting. Armed with 20 years experi- projects/properties,” Vergara describes of service. “Simply put, whatever
ence in real estate and brokerage commerce, he has helped build the Mort- the customer wants, the customer will get.”
gage Exchange, an Illinois mortgage brokerage, from a small company into Safety/security, on the other hand, is the diminishment of uncertainties
the largest volume mortgage company in the state of Illinois. His team in all their properties, giving the unit owners peace of mind.
financed nearly $1.5 billion in loans annually. In less than six months, the “A clean living environment needs very little explanation,” Vergara
loan generation business, which spawned into a real-estate marketing explains. “Once you see it, you know we have achieved it.”
business, helped developers sell nearly $100 million in property—a stag- Surroundings, lastly, pertain to the creation of world-class architecture
gering amount, especially if you convert that to pesos. and landscaping that do wonders for the mind and soul. “The best part is
A masterful financial strategist, he has helped hundreds of clients that no single entity, organization, person nor country holds a patent or
increase their real estate portfolios. By creating additional cash flow with franchise on creativity,” he says. “We believe GSC can compete and deliver
the profits generated from those assets, Vergara has helped clients realize a world-class property. GSC believes that if we can provide all of this in one
their financial goals. He has personally participated in the negotiation, package, we can firmly convince our fellow Filipinos to return once more
finance and sales of real estate in excess of $500 million dollars. to their land of birth.”
Confident with numbers and suave in his communication skills, Vergara At the end of the day, after all the trading and the negotiation, after
is at the top of his game in what appears to be the world’s most competitive the huffing and the puffing, what Vergara wants to achieve is a better
real estate industry. What would drive him then to leave his comfort zone in life to those who didn’t share the same blessings that he has. Children,
Chicago, come back to the country after leaving it almost 30 years ago when particularly, have a special place in his heart. Last year, he organized toy
he was still a kid, counterflowing against the millions of Filipinos leaving the drives at Lakeshore Properties in Pampanga and at the Philippine Children’s
Philippines in search for the much-dreamed-of greener pastures? Medical Hospital, enlivening the spirit and giving smile to the sick and to
His reason is simple: Vergara wants to make a difference. If he has done the impoverished.
it in the States, he reasons, he can replicate his success here. Fueled by great He realized right then that, “we need to do much much more than just
ambition, he doesn’t want to leave a small dent but an impact so great that bring toys and snacks.” He urges his team to do their very best because
it will change the course of the local estate industry. He envisions millions there are so many people they must help, affirming that their purpose for
of dollars in investment infused to the country by Fil-Ams. Over the top? doing business here is to make make a difference.
His track record is nothing but his hunger realized. “We have been blessed with health and great abilities,” Vergara told his
Kicking things to a start is the establishment of Guiding Star Corp. (GSC) team. “Together we can do something really special. Remember everyone
where Vergara serves as CEO and president. His vision, shared by like- God’s gift to us is the gift of life. Our gift to God is what we do with our
minded people in his team, is to develop world-class destinations in the lives. We have been given the tools let use them.”
Philippines, “second to none,” specifically five-star quality condominium Though gifted with a bird’s eye-view of success, Vergara doesn’t lose sight of
hotels and luxury residences. his commitment to his homeland. He wants to give back to local communities,
What makes his corporation different from other real-estate companies build hospitals and schools, make life better for some. To be of service, as
is that GSC is designed with a different approach and orientation. “When Vergara proves, is the meaningful fulfillment of his strength.
we see our competitors trying to convince people to retire in the Philip-
pines,” he enthuses, “we cannot help but think that they are only after the
‘retirement’ dollars/foreign currency and nothing more.”
Vergara wants to see retirees, on top of those who want to re-establish
their links to the country, to be productive which is the key “to unlocking
this beautiful country’s potential.” GSC, Vergara believes, can unlock
the inherent value of “returning Filipinos” whose “collective education,
experience and desire to help will bring back is immeasurable.” Retirement,
he firmly believes, is not an option for them.
His formula: make their real estate purchases generate income as
they continue to live in the US. When they are lured by homegrown
developers to acquire properties that will only be utilized sparingly and
sit unproductively in their absence, Vergara proposes properties that are
“hotel condominiums,” in the league of Four Seasons, which will generate
profit for the Fil-Am investors even if they are still based in the US and
made available each time they come home a visit.
Right now, he is in the process of canvassing lands, negotiating con-
tracts and acquiring the pertinent permits for his developments. He has a
stringent timetable in order for the products to be swiftly delivered. In less
than three years from the start of the construction, investors can already
enjoy the fruits of their hardwork, he avows.
I
s there such a thing as an illegal interior designer?” one might ask. Oh yes, Republic Act No. 8534 (Act regulating the practice of Interior Design in the
there is. People may not be aware that the practice of Interior Design in the Philippines) defines the practice of Interior Design as “the act of planning, specifying,
Philippines is regulated by the Board of Interior Design under the Philippine supervising and giving general administration and responsible direction to the functional,
Regulation Commission (PRC). This means that a legal Interior Designer in orderly and aesthetic development of interiors of buildings and residences that shall con-
the Philippines is one who has a valid license to practice the profession of Interior tribute to the enhancement and safeguard of life, health and property and the promotion
Design in the country. To obtain a valid professional Interior Design license, one has and enrichment of the quality of life.” The main reason behind the institution of that
to pass the Interior Design licensure examination given by the PRC Board of Interior Law regulating the practice of Interior Design is precisely to ensure that the design
Design. To qualify for taking the Interior Design licensure examination, one should and construction of interior spaces are made in accordance with the standards
have earned a degree in the Bachelor of Science in Interior Design program in any and requirements set by the PRC Board of Interior Design. By definition alone, one
college or university in the country accredited by PRC. Therefore, an illegal “interior should realize that the practice of Interior Design goes beyond the beautification of
designer” in the Philippines does not have a legal license to practice Interior Design interior spaces and has a major role to play in providing comfort, safety, well-being
and has not passed the Interior Design licensure examination. In other words, an and protection to the end users of the interior spaces involved. Persons who have
illegal “interior designer” is just like any other illegal practitioner of a profession not passed the Interior Design licensure examination and who do not have a valid
such as fake doctors, dermatologists and nutritionists. These are imposters who Interior Design license may not be conscious about this concern when designing
may not only be fooling you with their exorbitant service fees but may also be interior spaces. This poses great danger for them to omit the requirements or
putting your health, safety, security and possibly your life itself at stake. standards set by PRC.
Perhaps, there are people who do not really care whether the person they hire to While there is still no aggressive move from the government to police these
do their interiors has an Interior Design license or not. As long as they can afford the illegal practitioners of Interior Design, people should now be warned about their
fees charged by this person who claims to be an “interior designer” or an “interior existence and be advised not to risk their health, lives and property by taking a big
design consultant”, they think that it would be an advantage to them. However, it gamble in hiring them. No matter how popular they may have been in high society
is high time that people should be warned about these illegal “interior designers” for years, their being illegal practitioners of Interior Design still makes them guilty
while the policing of these “criminals” has not yet been fully implemented by the of committing a crime punishable by law. Patronizing them may also put one as an
government. accessory to their crime.
It has been observed that these illegal practitioners of Interior Design confi- Hiring a licensed Interior Designer to do your interiors is like seeking the
dently continue to commit their crime because no one has ever thought of policing expertise of a licensed medical doctor when you have health disorders or consulting
them since they have already established their names in the country after getting a licensed dermatologist when you have skin problems. On the other hand, hiring
many rich patrons who do not know any better. As long as they can get away a person without a valid Interior Design license to do your interiors is like risking
with it, they continue to fool their ignorant clients who think that they have been your money and your life in a gamble. One should not let one’s property be subjected
getting the best out of their money’s worth. There are some illegal practitioners of to the hands of an illegal Interior Designer just like how one should not risk his/her
Interior Design who happen to be in show business and they use their popularity as body to be treated by a person who has not passed the Medical Board Exam.
celebrities to advertise themselves as “interior designers” or “interior design con- If it is the professional service fee of a licensed Interior Designer that one is
sultants.” There are also others who passed the licensure examination of a related worried about, it is about time that one should be enlightened about that. Thinking
profession like Architecture, and think that that has already earned them the legal that the fee of a person without a valid Interior Design license is much cheaper
right to practice the profession of Interior Design. than that of a licensed Interior Designer is totally a misconception. There are
illegal practitioners of Interior Design who charge high service fees since they have
established a name through their connections. On the contrary, there are admirable
licensed Interior Designers who charge reasonable service fees because their main
interest is to improve the quality of the living and working environments of their
clients. What is most important is getting a professional Interior Designer with a
valid license whom one can truly trust because his/her practice is legal.
It is the hope of all licensed Interior Designers to see the day when illegal
practitioners of Interior Design will no longer be allowed to compete with
them, putting an end to a crime which ridicules the Interior Design Licensure
Examination. The public should likewise beware of falling into the trap of illegal
Interior Designers who could put their health, life and/or property in danger.
40-storey office,
commercial
and residential
condominium
www.condo.com.ph
For inquiries and viewing request:
CALL NOW (632) 812-3333
tips
aid kit and post emergency phone numbers near
the telephone.
Childproofing
Get rid of home hazards. Cover your electri-
cal outlets and hide cables or wires from view.
Keep matches/lighters, plastic bags, or any sharp
object away from children’s reach and do store
your condo
poisonous chemicals and medicines in locked
cabinets. Also, be careful in selecting toys for
your kids because there are some small parts
that can easily be swallowed.
P
you learn how to perform first-aid and CPR in case
icking out the right furniture, color areas, then you can start doing action. of emergencies. Be prepared for anything and just
scheme, and art pieces are all part and let your parental instincts kick in. Remember, it’s
parcel in creating the perfect home for Remember the basics. It’s home safety pro- up to you to provide them a clean, cozy, and safe
you and your family. But above any- tocol to install smoke detectors and have work- environment to live in.
thing else, safety must come first, especially if ing fire extinguishers in your house. Be familiar
you have kids running or even crawling around with the nearest emergency exits in the building Sources: www.babyhomesafety.com and www.
the place. Designing your condominiums is one and make evacuation plans. Keep a handy first- homesafetycouncil.org
thing, but childproofing it presents a whole new
challenge for parents.
The scary myth is true: most injuries and How mommy Dawn keeps Jacobo safe
accidents which lead to death of children ages
14 and below occur within the confines of their “I teach my son Jacobo how to be
aware of accident-prone things at
own homes and these could have been prevented home. For example, I don’t put away
with some very basic safety measures. To make breakables because I want him to
that sure that your flat is a safe haven for kids, know what things he can and cannot
touch. I also remind him to watch
you need to double-check the safety checklist. where he goes, take care as he
walks. The entire floor of his room
is covered with the rubber puzzle
See from their perspective. From a kid’s mats so even when he stumbles, the
point of view, your home is their world and fall wouldn’t be too hard. We also
they’re naturally curious about it. Unless you’ve put door stoppers para hindi siya
maipit sa pinto. Then we make sure
dropped on your hands and knees recently, the drawers are locked, the electric
you’ll realize how big and possibly dangerous plugs are covered. And of course, I
everything is. Try to be more observant and use have a baby monitor, which really
helps a lot.”
common sense in order to identify the problem
How safe
is your home?
Assessment of condominium
homes in the metropolis
Though condominiums are deemed more disaster-proof than
houses, it’s still good to familiarize oneself with areas of safety
and how to respond once a calamity strikes. Arch. Felicisimo
A. Tejuco, Jr. talks to an architect, a fire marshall and an
engineer regarding requisite safety features of buildings and
to unit owners on how they have equipped themselves in case
they come face-to-face with an emergency
F
act: Survival is a universal concern.
Fact: Man’s basic necessities have always been food, clothing and
shelter, all of which are anchored on the preservation of human life.
Fact: Over the past decade, condominium living has greatly
improved with the continuous development of building technology, sup-
port features and facilities, and people services.
Question: But despite all these innovations, how prepared and safe are
you and your family against calamities?
Safety starts at home. Compared to previous years, Chief Inspector
Jose S. Embang, Jr., Fire Marshall of Makati City, noted there “is a more
intense drive” in the community on fire prevention and earthquake
preparedness.
The latest condominium haven now stands in Global City, Taguig.
Designed and built by G&W Architects & Associates, Kensington Place is
an architectural haven that does not only comply with the mandatory fire
safety requirements, it also gives the residents their money’s worth.
Fire and earthquakes are two main considerations regarding
calamities. Kensington Place has been designed to address these threats.
Complimented by state-of-the-art technology like centralized fire alarm
and sprinkler systems, it is linked to a computer which allows building
authorities to alert residents about possible emergencies and also pinpoint
the source of the fire or smoke. The building’s biggest water reservoir is
the swimming pool at the ground floor. According to Arch. Daniel Terrence
substandard materials. Engr Annabele Maniego, Aside from possible legal cases, violators may be revoked of their business
OIC of the Enforcement Division of the Office of permit. Engr. Maniego said the number of violations is only a handful.
the Building Official of Makati City, agreed that “Meron talagang mga pasaway,” she said.
they still receive isolated reports. To date, there are eight on-going constructions of condominium build-
In response, the Office of the Building Official ings in Makati City. Each year, newly constructed buildings are added to
of Makati City came up with the Annual Inspec- the list of buildings for annual inspection.
tion Group, which conducts yearly inspection
of public and assembly buildings. Each team is Information drive
composed of a civil engineer, mechanical engi- Information is the key to safety. Fire Prevention Month comes as an
neer, electrical engineer, and a master plumber. annual wake up call to all communities on disaster awareness and preven-
“This team checks all aspects from faulty electri- tion. In Makati City, the Central Fire Station is working double time with
the information drive. A series of lectures and seminars on evacuation and
first aid training are lined up for the year.
Hotlines you should know Regarding calamity response Chief Inspector Embang stressed that
there are two main considerations: skills and equipment. Although the
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as 911 in local fire department still lags behind when it comes to equipment, the
the Philippines just yet. For now, it’s a must to
know these numbers for various emergencies
fire marshal reassured that “we have enough skilled people to deal with
that can pop up wherever you are. calamities like fires and earthquakea.”
However, he reminds them to do their share. “Don’t just comply with
117 – Philippine National Police or Patrol 117
168 – Makati Command, Control and the Fire Code of the Philippines. Upgrade yourselves. Educate yourselves.”
Communication Center (C3) Sr. Inspector Reynaldo D. Enoc, Chief of Fire Prevention and Inspection
163 – Bantay Bata Unit of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) added: “Attend lectures and
16-211 – Meralco
136 – Metro Manila Development Authority seminars conducted by the BFP. Brief all members of the family. Inform
(MMDA) them of the nearest fire exits in case of emergencies. Read safety tips.
524-1078 – National Poison Control
1626 – Maynilad Water Services, Inc.
Know the number of your nearest fire station.”
1627 – Manila Water Company, Inc. To future condominium unit owners, Engr. Maniego advises them to
160-16 – Association of Volunteer Fire check the condominium if it has secured the building permit and occu-
Chiefs & Firefighters of the Philippines, Inc.
522-2222 – Association of Philippine pancy permit. “That means they (developers) have complied with local
Volunteer Fire Brigades, Inc. ordinances,” she said.
911-5601 – Civil Defense Operation Center More important, for Arch. Yu, they should also do their research. “Ask
the right questions: What are the safety features of the building? How can
I evacuate the building during calamities?”
Electrical cords
• Keep electrical cords out of traffic paths and
away from areas where children play.
• Maintain all electrical cords. Replace any cord
that is cracked, frayed or otherwise damaged.
• Never pinch an electrical cord against wall or
furniture.
• Do not run extension cords under carpets or
across doorways.
Make electricity
Outdoor power
• Never run outdoor extension cords across
lawns for seasonal lighting displays or run
any extension cord across driveways or traffic
areas.
• Never use electrical appliances outdoors in
your friend
wet weather or when the ground or grass
is wet, unless the appliance is specially
designed and labeled by an independent
testing the lab for such use.
Lighting
• Place lamps on level, uncluttered surfaces and
be sure that lampshades are secure enough to
protect the bulb from breaking if the lamp is
knocked over.
• Light bulb should not exceed the wattage
I
recommended for a lamp or fixture.
t’s been said that condominiums offer more protection against fire than
houses, but still, it’s important to be aware of the fire’s usual causes, Be alert of the following danger
the precautionary measures to prevent fire from happening and how signals
• Recurring problems with blowing fuses and
to deal with conflagrations when they happen. tripping circuit breakers.
Most fires are linked to faulty electrical wiring, electrical short circuits • Feeling a tingle when you touch an electrical
or malfunctioning appliances. The Bureau of Fire Protection—which has seasonal outlet.
• A burning smell or unusual odor coming from
the mandate to prevent and suppress destructive fires, investigate their an appliance or wiring.
causes and provide emergency medical and rescue services—offers us • Sizzling sound at wall switches or outlets.
electrical safety tips that will guide us on how to keep our electrical cir- • Flickering lights. If you cannot locate a
cuits and appliances running safe and sound. Read, study and take them to problem inside your home, call your power
company or an electrician immediately to
heart. The life that you save, as they say, may be yours. inspect the electrical connection to your home
from your electric meter.
Fuses and circuit breakers/electrical outlets
• If a fuse blows off or a circuit breaker trips, don’t just replace it or reset it.
Find out what caused the breaker to trip and correct the problem. When you spot a warning sign, take action
• Never replace a fuse or a circuit breaker with one that exceeds the at once. Unplug a malfunctioning appliance if
amperage rating for a given circuit. you can do safely. If necessary, cut off power to
• Avoid using several high-amperage appliances, e.g., heat-producing
appliances, on the same circuit.
the problem circuit by disconnecting the fuse or
• Never replace a fuse with metal strip or any material that conducts tripping the circuit breaker manually. Call a pro-
electricity. fessional electrician to correct the problem.
• Have a professional electrician replace old or damaged outlets with
modern, three-wired polarized receptacles. Proper grounding is essential
to minimize fire and shock hazards.
• Never cut off or bend the ground pin of a pronged plug. This ground
connects protect you from severe shock caused by a faulty cord or
malfunctioning appliance.
• Never alter the wide prong of a polarized plug to make it fit into an
outdated outlet. Have the outlet replaced and properly grounded.
• Protect children from electrical shock by installing plastic safety inserts
in unused outlets.
Appliances
• All household appliances should bear the label of an independent testing
laboratory, indicating that they meet basic safety standards.
• Keep heat-producing appliances, such as electric ranges and irons at
least three feet (one meter) away from furniture, curtains, beddings or
Driving home a
Atty. Romero F.S. Quimbo, president and CEO of Home Development
Mutual Fund, or Pag-IBIG Fund as it is more popularly known, sits down
with Arnold A. Altamira, not only to discuss how brick by brick they’ve
been able to rejuvenate the sputtering agency, but likewise to offer his
take on what is needed for the more important task that is nation-building
L
awyer Romero Federico S. Quimbo was 32 and concurrently president
of a pioneering dotcom corporation and an associate at one of the
country’s leading law firms when then Housing chairman Michael
T. Defensor popped an interesting proposition: How would you like
to work for the government?
Others would readily scoff even at the idea
of trading a profitable and promising private
career for one in the crazy bureaucracy. But
for Quimbo, it was an eventuality just waiting
for its opportune unfurling. The erstwhile
student leader and activist has always viewed
government work, even if for the briefest stint,
as something every able-bodied and nationalistic
citizen should do. And contrary to the perennial
pronouncements of professional doomsayers
that involvement in the public sector irreversibly
taints, he believes that government service is, or
can be, honorable and decent. Proof of this, he
maintains, is his own family. Both his parents were
government employees and yet they managed to
raise 10 upstanding and respectable children.
While there were other government agencies making a bid for Quimbo’s the agency was underachieving. “A road map
services at that time, it was this particular offer for a stint at Pag-IBIG Fund that was essentially non-existent. There were no
eventually made him decide to turn his back, albeit temporarily, at a thriving clear goals nor clear directions. Records were
career in the private sector. “I’ve always believed in Secretary Defensor’s vision not integrated. Also there was not a coherent
and sincerity. Plus, I knew that under him, I will be given the needed leeway to and scientific basis for targets and expectations
implement policies and do things I feel should be done,” Quimbo explains. in relation to the fund’s true capacity and poten-
Five years on, the unbridled support from higher-ups and the guaranteed tial. And there was no accurate performance
free management reign still intact, Quimbo has successfully transformed the appraisal system,” he says.
once non-descript agency into one of the country’s top corporations, making it Luckily, he had one thing going for him – the
a benchmark for excellence in government service and professionalism. employees. “To be honest, I was surprised at
the care and commitment with which Pag-IBIG
Challenge employees treated the agency – this despite the
Taking stock of his arsenal was Quimbo’s initial order of business upon fact that they are among the lowest-paid in the
assuming the top post at Pag-IBIG in 2002. The agency then was perform- government,” he exclaims. “Never mind that
ing satisfactorily, quietly delivering on its mandate but he knew there was systems and structure were all over the place.
plenty of room for improvement. It did not take long before he saw why That can be fixed. The more important thing
was that I had this group of dedicated and hon- In no time, Pag-IBIG was running like a well-oiled machine. There was renewed
est employees who are going to work with me.” pride and vigor in the workplace. And it manifested clearly in the numbers.
The employees were only too happy to play
to the sway of Quimbo’s baton. His commitment Results
to excellence and his aversion to mediocrity and As per 2005 figures, Pag-IBIG Fund was the eighth largest among all
failure rubbed off immediately. tax-paying corporations in the country in terms of net income. Before
He instantly rewarded the culture of honesty Quimbo’s time, the Fund was not even listed among the country’s top 500
in the agency by holding over staff members from corporations. Its total assets last year of P191.5 billion and net income of
the previous administration. He wanted to show P7.4 billion are the highest in the Fund’s entire history. The net income
everyone that he had nothing to hide and he had no figure represents a 300 percent improvement in just four years’ time.
intention of making Pag-IBIG his fiefdom. He likewise Pag-IBIG has likewise become the biggest and most dominant real estate
took the daring step of empowering the managers, player in the country today. In 2004 alone, 36 percent of all mortgages in
entrusting them with greater responsibilities under the entire country were financed by Pag-IBIG. The rest were backed by 18
a decentralized system. This was counterbalanced by universal banks, about 200 thrift banks, and the other government financ-
the introduction of a performance appraisal system to ing institutions. In 2005, the Fund lent out P17 billion to its members, as
chart employee accountability. compared to just P5 billion in 2001.
Bonifacio Global City will soon awaken to a new, sunny development that will
reshape this community and re-address current real estate parameters. Condo
Central takes a peek at Fort Palm Spring Images by Benhur Arcayan
A
s one enters the model unit of Fort Palm Spring located at MC
Home Depot at the Bonifacio Global City, one is immediately
greeted with a feel-good ambience. The tones are in warm olive
and bronze, tempered with intermittent expanses of white. The
chairs, woven and adorned with cute little throw pillows, invite the view-
er to sit down and relax his eyes upon a suite of abstract works mirroring
the colors of the interior.
Now, imagine that semblance of home perched in any of the 28 floors
of Fort Palm Spring, opening to a luxurious view of the Global City, the
Manila Golf Club, or the ragged silhouette of the Makati skyline against an
intensely blue sky.
The visual treat, however, begins with the building itself. The lobby
sprawls into a dream of marble and dripping chandelier. Evoking the
tropical ambience of Palm Springs in California that has inspired it, the
development dazzles with a breathtaking landscape bristling with palm
trees and sky gardens that disrupt the smooth, sleek lines of the building’s
decidedly modern design.
Safety, needless to say, comes first. All units, which start from spacious
open layouts of 32 sq.m. for studio up to 155 sq.m. for three-bedrooms in
standard finish or model unit finish, are fitted with automatic sprinkler
systems and smoke alarms, intercom system, built-in exhaust, piped-in gas
direct to kitchen provision for cable television, two-line phone and high-
speed internet connections, provisions for hot and cold water supply, and
individual electric meters and mail boxes. Residents are assured of tight,
24-hour security, ample basement parking, and access to three high-speed
elevators, first class saunas, spa, fitness gyms, and indoor and outdoor
swimming pools. Typical Floor plan
one-bedroom Deluxe
Besabe assures that Fort Palm Spring will be finished in two years, Premire
three years ahead of the usual. “This will enable our clients to move into two-bedroom
their homes sooner or rent them out sooner so that they can either save up
to five years’ worth of rent or earn up to five years’ worth of rental income,”
she explains.
The response to Fort Palm Spring has been positive. Over 35 percent the
units have been sold and in a half a year’s time, Besabe says that they are
optimistic that all the units would already be sold out. This has invigorated
First Global BYO to begin drafting their next three projects, still at the
Bonifacio Global City.
With all of these terrific developments happening, more people can
now look forward to indulge in the luxury condominium living with utter
peace of mind.
Fort Palm Spring model unit is located at MC Home Depot, 32nd Street cor.
Bonifacio Blvd., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For inquiries, call 815-8080 or
727-4221.
F
or 25 unbroken years, Virgie Ablen Suzuki has been making
daily trips to the wet market to personally handpick the freshest
ingredients for what she calls her “little Japanese kitchenette.” She
then goes straight to oversee kitchen operations where brother
Danny is head chef. Once in a while, she leaks out of her little cocoon to
make certain that her service crew is doing a fine job at making every
customer in the 50-seater joint pleased. At day’s end, she is the last to
leave, the one to literally switch the lights out.
Housed at the ground floor of a two-story apartment at the corner
of Sampaloc and Kamagong streets in Makati City, Suzu-Kin (literally
Golden Bell) is Virgie’s modest monument to her love and fascination
for everything Japanese. It all started almost three decades ago when
she met her would-be husband, Akio Suzuki. A chef for the Kaneko
Japanese Restaurant, one of the handful of Japanese dining places then
*Concept design only in existence, Akio introduced and tutored Virgie on the finer points
of his native cuisine. The eager student and the fast learner that she
is, she absorbed his teachings immediately. Of course, developing a
Hanmadang Korean
Barbecue and Restaurant
636 San Andres Street, Malate Manila.
303-7388 or 303-7387.
Tourist buses parked along the busy San Andres street near the wet
market cause a bit of a traffic jam come dinner time. Korean tourists make
a detour at this restaurant for a sumptuous feast of Korean staples like
chapchae, bulgogi, bibimbap and an array of kimchi. Come here during a
weekday (or weekend) lunch for a more manageable lunch time crowd.
The setting: Has an area with low tables at the ground floor, for a
Korean-style dining experience. Regular tables and chairs are available in
the dining area on the second floor.
Plate favorites: The Dolsot Bibimbap is stove pot rice with mixed veg-
etables topped with fried egg and sesame seeds. It comes with a small
C
bowl of hot chili and bean curd paste that you mix into everything for a
ool off your “kitchen for one” this month deliciously moist mess with a subtly sweet and spicy flavor. The Haemul
and challenge your taste buds with a hint Pajun (Seafood Pancake) is a large fluffy omelet with a surprisingly moist
of Asian flavor. The cuisines of our Asian center and filled with shrimp, mussel, leeks, bell pepper, and onions. The
neighbors always provide an interesting Chapchae (glass noodles like our pansit bijon) brims with ingredients like
dining experience with its fresh ingredients, ar- earthy mushrooms, sweet onions, bell peppers, carrots and leeks. It has
omatic herbs and spices, and new (yet somewhat a slippery texture from the noodles and a subtly sweet, savory sauce, a
familiar) flavors. complete heartwarming meal by itself.
Just like any unfamiliar foods, the keys to
enjoying Asian cuisine are to keep an open mind, Isshin Japanese Restaurant
an adventurous stomach, a working knowledge 1024 A. Arnaiz Ave. (formerly Pasay Road), Makati City.
of what to order, and a small group of dining 817-2548 or 844-1512.
companions willing to embark on a little Asian The setting: A favorite haunt of diners who love good quality Japanese
food trip. food. The atmosphere is casual and busy. A tatami dining area, adorned
Here’s a quick guide to some of my off-the- with a soothing wallpaper of green bamboo, is at the back. Open until late
beaten-track favorites around the Metro: in the evening.
Plate favorites: Selections include giant maki rolls, sushi and sashimi
plus a long list of different kinds of ramen like Seafood Ramen and
Yakisoba, teppanyaki, tempura and other Japanese staples. Must try is the
refreshing cold noodles, hiyashichuka, tossed in a special soy-based sauce
and topped with slices of omelet, red bell peppers and tomatoes. They also
have the crescent-shaped gyoza (dumplings), which are steamed first and
then lightly browned in a little oil. Served on a sizzling plate is the Tofu
Special, made with thick rounds of tofu that are breaded, fried and topped
with a savory sauce.
But what draws Isshin patrons are the reasonably priced lunch sets.
The Executive Lunch Set consists of one special Teishoku Box meal for the
day (like Yakiniku Beef on Mondays or Mix Tempura on Tuesdays). For P140,
one can partake of a complete meal served with miso soup, plain rice, osh-
ingko, and three side dishes for the day. The Teppanyaki Lunch Set consists
of the special Teppan for the day (gyoza, chicken, squid, beef or shrimp) Safe and clean: go ahead and look
served with mixed rice and a yakisoba teppan. This Teppanyaki Lunch Set
starts at around P125. In its thrust to promote the brand’s promise of food safety and qual-
ity, McDonald’s boldly goes no local fast-food chain has – to open its
kitchens to the public with its Open Doors Program.
Jakarta Inn-Piano Bar and Restaurant First introduced in McDonald’s China and Australia, the Open Doors
2082 F. Benitez St., Malate, Manila. 521-4116. Program shows the brand’s focus on food quality, safety, and cleanli-
The setting: Tucked in a sleepy neighborhood near the corner of San ness. For McDonald’s, it is a way of communicating to all – especially
moms – that each McDonald’s meal is thoughtfully made, under the best
Andres St. and Quirino Ave. in Malate. The pace picks up in the evening and most caring conditions. This means they are bringing their family to
with music from the piano bar. This is the place to go for an intimate lunch a safe haven that takes their well-being to heart.
or dinner over food reminiscent of spicy Bicolano dishes, the closest we Quality, Service, Cleanliness and Value or QSC&V are the four key
words that have guided the way McDonald’s prepares its food. QSC&V
have to the Indonesian food served here.
brings consistency in all its products. This consistency has made McDon-
Plate favorites: Jakarta offers a large selection of authentic Indonesian ald’s one of the most loved and trusted brands in the world.
dishes ranging from camilan (appetizers), soup (like Soto Ayam or chicken Last Feb. 25, 14 participating literally opened their doors to the public
soup with tangy lemon grass broth), salad, main courses of chicken, sea- and conducted a tour of McDonald’s world-class kitchens: a demonstra-
tion of how each McDonald’s branch took food preparation, and thus the
food, beef and vegetables, and nasi (rice). A meal in itself is the Nasi Goreng well-being of their families, to heart.
(fried rice with egg, diced shrimp, chicken and beef) which is delicious “Opening our kitchens reinforces our openness and transparency.”
strewn with crunchy emping, Indonesian crackers. says Margot Torres, McDonald’s VP for Marketing. “At McDonald’s, moms
can feel at ease knowing that they are giving their children and the rest
The Rendang Daging Sapi (beef rendang) is like the Filipino adobo of the family only the freshest and best quality meals.”
and is slowly cooked in coconut milk, herbs and spices until tender
China calling
China has influenced almost all aspects of our lives—from the way we dine
to how we trade to how we live—but as the exhibits currently on view at
The Podium and Ayala Museum attest, one of the world’s oldest and greatest
civilizations has also inspired and energized how we create and view art.
Carlomar Arcangel Daoana writes
T
hough the West has constantly portrayed China’s exoticism and string of exhibits currently on view in the metro
mystique, translating them into heart-stopping images of kung presents wave upon wave of artworks and influ-
Claude Tayag’s,
“Veggie Vendor”
fu masters, women with bound feet and emperors with hundred ences that have landed on our shores from China
Pen and ink, wives, sometimes set in hazy background of mountains or the Great throughout the centuries and examines how it
watercolor on paper Wall, what we know about China is more definite, intimate. Trading continues to inspire contemporary artists and
with one of the oldest and greatest civilizations in the world energize their vision to create profoundly new
Beaded slippers
Asian Civilizations as far back as the pre-Spaniards times has opened us to and invigorating interpretations of the world.
Museum China’s social, cultural, linguistic, and even artistic
influences, contributing a great deal to how we The magic of Macau
define our country and ourselves. On view until March 7 at the second floor
In the light of China becoming an lounge of The Podium in Ortigas is Macau Magic,
unstoppable economic powerhouse a group show featuring the works of four art-
(possibly half of the things you use or ists—National Artist BenCab, Soler Santos,
own could have been manufactured Claude Tayag and Phyllis Zaballero—who were
in this country) in the 21st century, a inspired by the visual treasures of this adminis-
When waiting
entails more
than patience
Waiting
Ha Jin
T
he sultry Katrina Halili finds perfect companion Katrina is particularly fond of Hang Ten’s ladies’ its backdrop, highlighted by its protagonist’s
in Hang Ten’s no-fuss, laid-back, ready-for- pants that she says seem to have been designed to conflict of pursuing his desire against keeping
anything attitude. show off her legs. up the filial duty of keeping one’s family and
Trendy, yet laidback; fashionable, yet comfort- “Like most people, I go around in jeans and dignity intact.
able—that is what casual chic is all about and that is sometimes, it can be a hassle finding good jeans From the very beginning, Lin’s marriage
what apparel brand Hang Ten embodies. that still make you feel like a girl. Finding a brand to his wife Shuyu has been loveless, owing to
From its wide collection of colorful tees and styl- like Hang Ten that understands my body was a relief. the fact that she looks too old and is actually
ish tops to its form-flattering jeans and hip denim You can wear them with high heels and you’re ready old fashioned as she embarrasses Lin with her
skirts, the apparel brand has the terms “casual” and for anything,” she enthuses. bound feet, which was already outdated in the
“chic” down pat. ‘60s. They grow more estranged as Lin works
And Hang Ten couldn’t have picked a more appro- Form-flattering for the most part of the year in the city, going
priate youth idol to be the face behind its ladies’ line Petite, yet curvaceous, Katrina says it used to be home only during the summer. Even the birth
than Katrina Halili, the young actress who, despite her hard for her to find the perfect tee and top to com- of their daughter Hua does not change this
sultry onscreen persona, loves fuss-free fashion. plement her body. arrangement, though Shuyu remains loyal
“So I loved it when I discovered Hang Ten back in and dutiful to Lin to the point of taking over the
Comfortable, yet feminine high school,” she says. “I really like how its clothes care of his parents until their deaths.
“I always seem to be on the go these days so fit my body.” Shuyu’s old fashioned ways supposedly
I prefer my clothes to be comfortable but still very Hang Ten has long been known its basic tees that set her apart from Manna, a nurse who works
feminine,” she says. come in an array of colors. It also has an extensive in the Chinese Army with Lin. Pretty, feisty and
The 21-year-old, after all, has projects left and selection of buttoned and collared shirts for both gutsy, Manna succeeds in forging a romantic
right these days. “Right now, I’m busy taping for men and women. relationship with the conscientious doctor, but
‘Atlantika’ which winds down soon but then I’ll be Its kid’s line, meanwhile, is just as varied with fails in securing his divorce every summer. Fate
starting work on Lupin, another adventure series on its collection of tees, skirts, and jeans in youthful tests their patience as their relationship goes
GMA,” she reveals. designs. through disturbances and fits of frustration,
motivated only by the rule that an officer can
divorce his wife freely after 18 years. After Lin
beauty
succeeds in divorcing Shuyu and marrying
Scent as succulent Manna, he embraces the idea of living a new
life, but without counting the consequences it
as apples would bring.
Ha Jin’s straightforward narrative makes
Sink your teeth into the most luscious scent captivating charm, the fragrance is presented in Waiting an easy read, although not quite an
of the season. an apple-shaped flacon adorned with dainty sil- exhilarating experience as it lacks the richness
The apple – that succulent shiny red fruit ver leaves. It is sweet, fruity, vibrant, crisp, and of a more adorned language and tone. Though
evoking enchantment and mystique in fairy rich - as tempting as the fruit that bewitched injected with humor every now and then,
tales and folklore – captures hearts anew maidens and princesses. Its juice is a lus- its wryness does not make up for its lack of
this season in a scent called Nina. Personi- cious red, the color of passion. poesy.
fying the legendary fruit, Nina, a fragrance Nina is a unique fragrance because of Its unraveling, however, is effective in
by Nina Ricci, is enchantingly sweet its toffee apple notes. Imagine the the sense that in the end, even the reader is
and addicting with top notes of Ca- surprisingly pleasant aromas and affected with the tension and complication
librian lemon and Caipirinah lime; tastes of sweet apples dipped in that Lin goes through after all those years of
heart notes toffee apple, peony and toffee-flavored syrup. The scent is waiting. In the end, the question of where the
moonflower; and base notes of delicious, like an irresistibly sinful grass is greener reverberates, reminding us
apple wood and white cedar. dessert tempting lovers of all per- that insatiable longing is always unfortunately
A picture of innocent beauty and suasions. paired with frustration.
Wow
Cubao!
Before the frenentic and swanky leisure hubs in Ayala and Alabang, there has been Araneta Center in Cubao which, in almost five decades,
has been serving as pivotal center in the metro where people shop, dine and have fun. With the recent commercial and condominium
developments happening this side of Quezon City, Cubao is experiencing a resurgence of sort—thanks to a thoughtfiul urban planning
that is making people say, wow!
S
ince time immemorial, man has always obsessed about living in Here in Metro Manila, Araneta Center
the center of the universe. There is an abject fascination about remains such a center of the local universe. Built
being in the center of things, as it seems to give power to the man in the 1960s by the family that lent its name to
in the middle. Despite centuries of enlightenment, however, where the country’s first leisure and lifestyle complex,
man faced the reality that his existence may not be at the center of things the Araneta Center remains one of the country’s
after all, the fascination remains. vital urban spots, where close to a million people
In choosing matters of residence, the need for a centrist point of view is set foot every day. Araneta Center is often the
remarkably preserved. Given the choice, people want to live, and prefer to first destination of tourists, and it remains the
have their children grow up in a familiar place that’s near everything. last place to go to before leaving back home.
Sky high
Images by
Benhur Arcayan
F
rom Feb. 8 to 11, people
trooped to the Clark
Field in Pampanga and
experienced a romantic
and thrilling adventure by
riding on a hot air balloon
in the 11th Philippine
International Hot Air Balloon
Festival. Not only that but
local folks and out-of-town
visitors were entertained with
a variety of activities such as
paragliding, helicopter and
kite flying shows, aerobatic
shows, skydiving, hand-
gliding, and gyro plane flying
demonstration. Of course, the hot air balloons were the biggest crowd
drawer of them all.
Additionally, United Parcel Service (UPS), the world’s largest package
delivery company, offered a pre-Valentine’s Day treat by inviting some key
media personalities and their partner to a romantic rendezvouz in the sky.
Armed with a spirit of adventure, curiosity and camera, they rode on the
hot air balloons a whimsical way of spending Valentine’s Day.
A sponsor of the fiesta for five straight years, UPS has partnered
with the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) to co-host the festival.
As a major business operator in Clark, with the Intra-Asia hub located
in the province of Pampanga, UPS supports the CDC’s efforts in promot-
ing tourism and boosting economic development.
Prestige.
Privacy.
Proximity.
Have it all
in one address.
S
829/ 831 Moret St., oon, all the stress of city living will be a thing
Sampaloc, Manila of the past. Because right in the heart of Manila
will rise The UNIVERSIT Y TOWER, a prestigious
residential and commercial condominium planned
For aS lOW aS for your convenience and designed for your security.
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students, faculty members, and professionals that’s
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soar
W
hile a pilgrimage and tour to Mount Banahaw, considered a nice three-level tree dwelling at the tamarind
mystical and sacred by many, may not be possible right tree. The tree was in full bloom, thus anyone
now because the Department of Environment and Natural sleeping here would be sprinkled with tamarind
Resources (DENR) has closed it off to visitors in order for the blossoms upon waking up. The huts had bamboo
mountain and its ecology to recover, one can at least explore the springs slats flooring and an open-air bathroom at the side
and enjoy a stay in a quaint café in Dolores, a town in the province of with its own garden. Each hut can accommodate
Quezon at the foot of the mountain. It is a popular jump-off point of two to eight persons. A bathroom and toilet with
pilgrims and climbers. hot water are very welcome amenities in this
We went there after a stay at the acclaimed The Farm at San Benito, part. Now, mountaineers, trekkers and pilgrims
where we detoxified and ate raw vegetarian food. We plunged into the to Mount Banahaw can journey with relative ease.
bustle of Lipa proper and headed east to Dolores for Kinabuhayan Café Bed But Kinabuhayan café itself is fast becoming a
and Breakfast. It was an uneventful hour or so drive through the towns destination.
of Padre Garcia and San Antonio and entering Quezon province through
Tiaong. Dolores was a quaint town with narrow, sloping roads.
On Dejarme Street in the quiet neighborhood of Barangay Bayanihan
stood Kinabuhayan Café, equally quaint as the town, near a chapel and an
elementary school. A big tamarind tree marked its location.
Opened in the Holy Week of 2003, Kinabuhayan Café is owned by buddies
Jay Herrera, production designer, and Winston Baltasar, motoring journalist
and former managing editor of Top Gear magazine. It stood on Herrera’s family
property, which was before an empty lot with a garage. The two established
this only bed-and-breakfast place in the area with Herrera designing and
acting as chef. Herrera lives here while Baltasar goes home to Makati. The
café is named after the barangay at the foot of Banahaw where some natural
sacred shrines are located. The name means “place of resurrection.”
The café in white paint was charmingly accented with details like
numerous different windows, which Herrera collected along the way. In
the yard, there were two open-air, two-story huts as accommodation plus
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Studio Studio Two-bedroom Two-bedroom Studio
Fully furnished Unfurnished Unfurnished Fully furnished Unfurnished
25 sq.m. 35.02 sq.m. 39 sq.m. 73 sq.m. 35 sq.m.
P15,000/month P35,000/month P20,000/month Two parking slots P35,000/month
P45,000/month
Oriental Garden Makati Executive The Columns– Ayala The Columns - Ayala Cityland Pasong Tamo
Studio Tower I One-bedroom Studio Three-bedroom
Unfurnished One-bedroom Semi-furnished Fully furnished Fully furnished
33 sq.m. Unfurnished 49 sq.m. 30 sq.m. 116.9 sq.m.
P15,000/month 36 sq.m. One parking slot P25,000/month P40,000/month
P12,500/month P45,000/month
Rafael F. Pula
Chairman of the Board
Maritess M. Oligario
Division Manager
4515 Eagle Rock Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90010 P.O. Box 4833
U S A d d r e ss :
Mail: Palos Verdes, CA 90274 • E - ma i l : rfpula_rprealty@yahoo.com
Tel. Nos.: (323) 344-3500, 344-8626, 344-3547, 321-2490 • M O B ILE N o . : +639198018339
P H ILI P P I N E A DDRE S S : 2/F P & L Bldg., Legazpi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City
E - ma i l : admin@condo.com.ph • Tel . No.: (632)812-3333 • F a x : (632)893-8134 • M o b i l e N o . : +639198504468
condo
*guide
For sale
www.condo.com.ph
For inquiries and viewing request:
CALL NOW (632) 812-3333
Disclaimer: All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prospective purchasers and renters should verify the information to their satisfaction.
Alpha Salcedo Three Salcedo Ponte Salcedo Elizabeth Place Salcedo Park
Three-bedroom Three-bedroom Two-bedroom Studio Three-bedroom
161.14 sq.m. Semi-furnished Fully furnished Unfurnished unfurnished
One parking slot 183.9 sq.m. 140 sq.m. 42.59 sq.m. 224 sq.m.
P11,178, 805 Two parking slots One parking slot One parking slot One parking slot
P13,000,000 P7,200,000 P3,300,000 P14,000,000
Alpha Salcedo Parklane Parc Regent Elizabeth Place Nobel Plaza
Three-bedroom Three-bedroom Three-bedroom Studio de luxe Three-bedroom
Unfurnished Unfurnished Semi-furnished Unfurnished Unfurnished
193.1 sq.m. 149.05 sq.m. 165 sq.m. 62.04 sq.m. 155.15 sq.m.
One parking slot One parking slot One parking slot One parking slot Two parking slots
P12,880,075 P7,000,0000 P7,800,000 P5,000,000 P8,800,000
Easton Place One Lafayette Alpha Salcedo Elizabeth Place Antel Platinum Tower
Three-bedroom One-bedroom Studio One-bedroom de luxe Two-bedroom
Unfurnished Fully furnished Fully furnished Unfurnished Unfurnished
189 sq.m. 65 sq.m. 31 sq.m. 96.37 sq.m. 101 sq.m.
One parking slot P3,800,000 P2,750,000 One parking slot One parking slot
P12,000,000 P6,300,000 P8,000,000
Easton Place Ponte Salcedo Alpha Salcedo Elizabeth Place One Lafayette
Three-bedroom Three-bedroom Penthouse Two-bedroom One-bedroom
Unfurnished Unfurnished Fully furnished Unfurnished Unfurnished
201 sq.m. 285 sq.m. 161.15 sq.m. 96.93 sq.m. 60 sq.m.
One parking slot One parking slot One parking slot One parking slot One parking slot
P12,500,000 P11,400,000 P11,178,805 P7,400,000 P4,800,000
New York Tropical Francesca
Mansion Mandarin Tower Two-bedroom
Studio Studio Fully Furnished
Unfurnished Unfurnished 43 sq.m.
44 sq.m. 36.5 sq.m. One parking slot
P1,400,000 One parking slot P2,200,000
P2,850,000
Cityland Alpha Vellagio Tower Park Avenue Mansion Alpha Grandview
Vito Cruz Tower Grandview Studio Studio Studio
One-bedroom One-bedroom Unfurnished Unfurnished Semi-furnished
Unfurnished Semi-furnished 30 sq.m. 24 sq.m. 28.4 sq.m.
50 sq.m. 52.80 sq.m. P2,085,000 P950,000 P2,000,000
One parking slot One parking slot
P2,850,000 P3,500,000
Cityland Pioneer California California Parc Royale Grand Emerald Tower
One-bedroom Garden Square Garden Square Four-bedroom Studio
Fully furnished Two-bedroom Two-bedroom Semi-furnished Unfurnished
34 sq.m. Unfurnished Unfurnished 348 sq.m. 37 sq.m.
P1,500,000 57 sq.m. 57.50 sq.m. 1 parking slot Two parking slots P1,250,000
P2,800,000 P2,400,000 P16,000,000
Cortijos Greenhills
Palmdale Heights California California Parc Royale Condominium
Studio Garden Square Garden Square Two-bedroom Three-bedroom
Unfurnished Three-bedroom Two-bedroom Semi-furnished Unfurnished
40 sq.m. Fully furnished Unfurnished 170 sq.m. 125 sq.m.
P1,400,000 80 sq.m. 57.5 sq.m. 1 parking slot One parking slot One parking slot
P3,900,000 P2,500,000 P5,500,000 P4,800,000
www.condo.com.ph
The Condominium Specialist
BUY SELL RENT
PONTE SALCEDO
central
market
Salcedo Village, Makati City
3BR 285 sq.m. 1 parking slot P11.4M
3BR 285 sq.m. 1 parking slot P12.8M
Makati
top broker’s
pick
Condo for rent:
Legaspi and Salcedo
ONE LEGAZPI PARK
Legaspi Village, Makati City
ANTEL PLATINUM TOWER
Salcedo Village, Makati City
2BR 97.7 sq.m. 1 parking slot P11.0M
1BR FF 40 sq.m. 1 parking slot P30,000/mo.
2BR 97 sq.m. 1 parking slot P10.5M
1BR 69.7 sq.m. 1 parking slot P7.5M
CLASSICA TOWER II
Salcedo Village, Makati City
ONE LEGAZPI PARK
2BR FF 112 sq.m. 1 parking slot P70,000/mo.
Legaspi Village, Makati City
2BR FF 97.7 sq.m. 1 parking slot P90,000/mo.
STD FF 40 sq.m. 1 parking slot P30,000/mo.
PLAZA ROYALE
Salcedo Village, Makati City
2BR FF 155 sq.m. 1 parking slot P50,000/mo.
MANHATTAN SQUARE
Salcedo Village, Makati City
1BR 79 sq.m. 1 parking slot P40,000/mo.
FOUR SEASONS
Salcedo Village, Makati City
2BR FF 170 sq.m. 1 parking slot P85,000/mo.
RIZAL TOWER
Rockwell Center, Makati City
Penthouse SF 336 sq.m. 3 parking slots P230,000/mo.
CENTURY PLAZA
Legaspi Village, Makati City
2BR FF 147 sq.m. 1 parking slot P50,000/mo.
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at +639278369426
Call or tex t Norma Robles at +639178557174
Condos by
Federal Land, Inc
Salcedo Condos
PONTE SALCEDO
Salcedo Village, Makati City
3BR 280 sq.m. 2 parking slots P100,000/mo.
LE METROPOLE
Salcedo Village, Makati City
2BR FF 130 sq.m. 1 parking slot P80,000/mo.
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Along Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City
Lot for sale
2,775 sq.m.
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St. Francis Towers
Mandaluyong City
STD, 1BR, 2BR
P3M-P13M
Lee Gardens
Mandaluyong City
STD, 1BR, 2BR
P3.2M-P12M
Hampton Gardens
Pasig City
STD, 1BR, 2BR
P880,000-P1.8M
Discover a place to
relax, to refresh, and to bond
The cool, crisp air invites you to step outside and enjoy
the outdoors. Feel the excitement at the basketball and
tennis courts, take a dip and refresh yourself at the
swimming pool, and work on your short game at the
putting green. First-class amenities at the clubhouse and
the beautifully landscaped pocket parks and gazebos Underground utilities
have been designed for every member of the family to
have a place to relax and to bond.
24-hour roving security within the village
Take comfort in knowing that
Strategically located deepwell pumps
everything you need is taken care of with standby generator
Ayala Southvale takes property management to new
heights. Run by the Ayala Property Management
Corporation (APMC), it offers unique and personaliized Initial water reservoir with a capacity of
services for a lifestyle of security and covenience. 750,000 gallons
Here, all facilities run smoothly day in and day out
- without you even noticing. It’s a way to reassure
you that you can continue to live in perfect serenity
landscaped major roadways with
knowing that everything essential is taken care of. street lights
For presentation and special discounts, call or text Patrick R. Blanco at +639179809477
opinion
The
Condo
CAMANAVA Café
gets a facelift Renne Isidro
C
ondominiums are rising all over Metro Manila. Up north in taken over by other developers are now being repackaged. The difference
Valenzuela City, a new high-rise condominium to cater to the between the developments today and a decade ago is that developments
needs of the new industrial city is being built. Soon Malabon today cater to the needs of the end user and not on mere speculations
City will have its own condominium subdivisions with the vast just like before the Asian crisis. I would like to advise new investors to
vacant lots in Potrero and Acacia Road as potential locations for affordable be careful of the big bad wolves in the industry: do not be carried over by
condominiums. Not to be left behind is the fishing town of Navotas the lavish parties and cocktails they give and let you sign a reservation
which is taking the steps to becoming a city. From Navotas, Manila is agreement right away. Check out the site first. Some claim that the project
just 15 minutes away and around 30 minutes to Makati via Roxas Blvd. is almost sold out but if you visit to the site, the only development that
Caloocan City, which is part of the CAMANAVA area, has condominium will greet you is the fence. The best person to help you in choosing the
developments rising in the C-3 Road and new major developments may rise property that suits your needs and financial capability is a professional
in the Monumento Circle Area. broker. Write to renne@condo.com.ph or just check out www.condo.com.ph
The old folks of these residential towns would not exchange the lifestyle for the inventory of best buys in condominiums.
being offered by the developments down in the south and the business
districts to the customs and traditions of their hometown. Even today, you
could still see the ancestral houses of the old rich still standing even if Congratulations to all March graduates! Good news: according to an
the town is under water during the rainy months. The best way to sell article, the call center industry needs 400,000 new call center agents and
condominium units to these old rich is to bring the lifestyle of condo living the number of graduating students from college this year is only 350,000.
nearer to them. That is what has been happening in the heart of Manila. We may now become a Call Center Republic. When I was invited to a Career
Affordable condominium units are selling like hotcakes in the old districts Development Seminar in one of the public high schools in Quezon City, the
of Manila which has not experienced major developments for the past most popular course that students want to take up in college is Nursing
four decades. Most of the infrastructures in Manila were built after the and Engineering and not a single student wants to become a call center
Second World War. Quezon City is catching up with the Ortigas Business agent. After four years of college, majority of them might wind up in a call
Center, Makati Business Center and Fort Bonifacio in the premium condo center. I would like to challenge all call center agents to seek a new career
developments with the Cubao Business District and North Edsa as the new on real estate. In the call center, if you are good and excel among your
locations to look forward to. batch, you can easily be promoted. If you are in a fast food industry, if you
Are these signs that we have now a real estate boom and are there are good, you become the store manager and work 16 hours a day. If you
indications that there may be another collapse in the real estate sector? decide to be an entrepreneur, let us say selling peanuts in the mall, you
If you will check the statistics of the housing needs of the middle class may become the peanut king of the malls. But if you enter real estate and
and the upper class of the Metropolis, the number of condominium units become successful, you can earn your first million in a few months time
being built today does not even represent five per cent of the housing and be on your way to become a tycoon.
requirement of the working middle class. The good news is that most
developments today cater to the needs of the end user, with units available
according to one’s needs and financial capabilities. Now is the best time Watch out for the opening of the NUDE Room this summer which will
to buy: units below P2.5M are tax exempt, terms are better with a 20 feature the artworks of different Filipino artists such as E.R. Tagle and
percent down payment, and you can have the balance payable in three his group. The NUDE Room is located at the second floor of P&L Bldg. on
to five years without interest. Some premium developments offer 30 to 40 Legazpi St. just across Greenbelt One. I told Ernie to start a new series
percent much lower prices for their units through innovative systems. All last week for our inventory is not enough to cater the needs of the condo-
you need to do is to look for a professional broker who will help you out minium units.
defines your needs that will suit your budget. There is no real boom yet but
with all these developments and good governance, we are on the way to a
true real estate boom. For condominium associations, condo developers, property managers and other
Is there a possibility of a real estate collapse again? If you would go real estate projects, the Condo Café welcomes news, events, announcements and
around the metropolis, you could still see some projects which were other activities you want to be included in Condo Central by writing to renne@
affected by the Asian crises a decade ago still not moving and some projects condo.com.ph or call us at tel. no. 840-1332.
When
spic and span so I need not spend extra cash for
house-keeping.
I am grateful for the security guards that
make me feel more safe living alone with my
motherhood
daughter in a condo. I am thankful for the main-
tenance whenever I needed a pipe to be fixed or a
bulb to be replaced. I am lucky to own a unit that
is a stone’s throw away from the mall or nearest
convenience store.
becomes me
Thank goodness for the gym amenities, I
thought I’d never break into sweat anymore.
Especially the pool, which is so accommodating,
especially on a hot and humid day.
And I am even more in debt to the wonderful
child-care facilities offered in our condo; I never
Living at the prime of her life and climbing the corporate ladder, thought I would have even at least an hour of
alone-time if not for that day care center.
Geraldine Cuason wanted to be at the center of it all, so she searched And I would never forget Maria, my widowed
for a condo unit at the heart of Makati. Little did she know that her life next-door neighbor. If it hadn’t been for her 10-
years-of-raising-kids expertise, I would never bet
would turn 180 degrees with the arrival of a new roommate: her daughter that I could raise my child single-handedly. I am
F
so lucky to have Maria not only as a neighbor,
ive years ago, I was ecstatic when I was finally able to move out of but also as a confidant, companion, friend, and
my parents’ house and afford (well, half-subsidized by my parents) even a great cook at that!
a condominium unit. It thrilled me to no end that I was finally able I always thought I would raise my kid in a
to get my own one-bedroom unit in the heart of Makati with my quiet house with a garden (and if I am lucky,
meager savings. with a pool), where I can just let my daughter
I am a private person with a thirst for the outdoors. You could say I am run free and experience the beauty of nature.
a loner who enjoys the company of a few chosen close friends. After a day’s But on the practical side, I can already have the
hectic job of working for a corporate firm, I would always look forward to beauty of nature that my condominium provides
spending some quiet time - the ME time - in my hard-earned condo unit, with their garden (with matching pond with
just relaxing with a good book or a nice movie on my DVD. kois). So I thought, why spend more on a house
Friends and relatives sometimes drop by my pad and spend the night when you can be safe and get the same perks in
just to chill out, drink a few bottles of beer, and chat about life, work and a condominium?
everything else. I am looking forward to finding work again
Then just a year ago, I finally found my permanent roommate—not soon, but for now, I am totally satisfied by just
that I was looking for one. But I accidentally did, in my daughter. being a single mom living in a condo.
Swedish/Shiatsu/
Combination/Reflex P250.00
Aroma Facial Clay Mask P300.00
Xiamen Style Body Massage P350.00
Cellulite Massage P500.00
Manicure and Pedicure P250.00
Hair Spa with Back Massage P350.00
Foot Spa with Reflex P300.00
Milk Bath P600.00
Aroma Green Tea Body Scrub P600.00
Aroma Whitening Body Scrub P650.00
Aroma Whitening Body Mask P650.00
Body Polish P600.00
at home
and gives hair a healthier sheen.
Sports massage
Recommended for athletes, this treatment focuses
on the muscles to help repair and lessen chances of
injury, reduce recovery time, and increase stamina.
Egyptian massage
Green Tea Body Scrub with 1 hour massage Using a variety of gliding and Swedish thump
percussive strokes and a unique selection of oils
Aroma therapy
Uses a special blend of essential oils derived from a
Xiamen
This massage features a precise, powerful kneading
of knuckles to break nodules and soften pressure
points.
Greenhills: 743-6168 • 0915-5988-177 Makati: 742-1829 • 0915-3310088
survey
Mission
Take for instance the case of the foolish father Security guards are likewise not your typical
and his bratty boy. To shut the whining kid up, doormen in the mold of those in high-end New
Arnold A. Altamira the dad would point to the nearest security York apartments. If he does not fling the door
guard and admonish junior, “Pag hindi ka tumigil, open after you’ve been standing on the threshold
F
kakainin ka ng pulis! (If you don’t stop, the police for five minutes, kindly help yourself in. Most of
irst, you have to undergo an extensive will eat you!). Security guards aren’t the police. them will gladly do it for you, but if they fail,
pre-licensing program. There will be long They are not predisposed to mulct. Neither are they probably just didn’t notice you, or you are
lectures, physical torture, a crash course they cannibals. Psycho clearance, remember? trying to enter an establishment with hardly
on self-defense and hand-to-hand combat, The presence of security guards is also widely any activity. So why are you there?
and a seminar on firearm handling. Thereafter, seen by some folks as a license to act irresponsible The list goes on. I guess what I’m saying is, a
a dramatic shift in gears ensues. You will be and careless. People should never expect their lot of the unwelcome experiences we’ve had with
marinated with homilies on how to be pleasant belongings to be immune from daylight heists. security guards are borne out of mismanaged
and polite to all sorts of people in all sorts of Even in tightly-secured ritzy places. Remember, expectations. We want them to babysit us yet we
moods. Then, to prove that you paid attention majority of robbers in the country belong to the refuse to cooperate, or do so grudgingly, when it
during the 17-day workshop, you must hurdle upper class. Your cellphone for example, even if it is required of us. We have to keep in mind that
the excruciating General Knowledge Exam (GKE) does not state in its voluminous manual, should when we are asked to sign logbooks, pop our
to be administered by heavily armed men. not be left unattended in public for more than trunks open, park facing the wall, present proper
Having secured your license, you will next three heartbeats. In case of disappearance, don’t identification, rip open our bags for inspection, the
be subjected to the rigorous standards of yet expect the security guard to cough out the sorry guards are just fulfilling their mandate.
another entity called “the agency.” The agency GPS-enabled unit. Does Manong look like a While they are willing to risk life and limb in
will harass you, shake you down and compel carrying out their functions, they exist mainly to
you to produce possibly damning documents deter crimes and misdemeanor, not enforce the
coming from the NBI, the PNP, the courts, and law. While they try their darnedest best to
the influential barangay council. You are also protect your property, they are primarily a
to establish that you have clear eyesight via service provider, not an insurance company.
a medical clearance, clearer urine via a drug While they would want to keep the world in
clearance, and the clearest disposition via a order despite politicians, they are but ordinary
psychological clearance. humans with some training and a low-caliber
Next stop, another round of aptitude exams firearm, not Mister Dubya.
to see if indeed, your GKE results were not a In the great scheme of things, security is still
fluke or tampered with. Still after that, and as a a byproduct of our personal practices and our
final test, you will be thoroughly scrutinized and collective decisions – like that which we shall
ranged against societal standards of external make two months from now. But, if you can’t
appearance and internal decency. vote wisely, at least be nice to Manong.
And so begins your journey – not as a fascist The world is a much safer place if we are
underling or a reality show contestant or a kind to one another.
senator of the land – but as a security guard.
Or a Manong, as they are more popularly P.S. Thank you to Robert G. Tolentino, CSP, for
known. explaining, among other security concepts, that
Security guards have become an PADPAO does not come in asado and bolabola
inescapable fixture of the cityscape. A varieties.
good number of them are amiable and
upstanding, yet, they’ve been getting E-mail: aaaltamira@condocentral.com.ph
a bad rap for the longest time. It
must be the awkward quasi-authority,
quasi-bodyguard nature of their being. In
La dolce vita:
Filipinos in Italia
A
bout this time several years ago, I flew to Rome to We all laughed, though a bit sadly, because I
attend the ‘funerali di Papa Giovanni Paolo Secondo,’ remembered that THAT’s what foreigners think
moved as I was by this wonderful man who had of the Philippines sometimes—a country of
touched so many people’s lives. My family and I had ‘ladrones,’ where people steal money from the
seen him in San Francisco in the ‘80s, and through the years I government, from the poor, where politicians
had admired his work, his compassion and his energy. I didn’t steal elections, where the judicial system is a
like everything he said, but what was it about this man that I joke. I silently prayed for our country. What
loved him even as I disagreed with him? irony—a descendant of Rizal (who hated the
A friend, Alma Frondoso, joined me in the quickly-prepared unfair Spanish friars,) praying in the Mother
pilgrimage to the Vatican. With my cousin Consul to Mongo- Church whom he hated, for our country, whom
lia, Tony Rufino’s help, she got her visa in a flash, and off we he loved desperately, like I still do.
were, within hours of hearing that the Pontiff had died. We From the Piazza di San Pietro to the Fontana
spent a pretty penny BUT what a memorable visit it was! di Trevi to Via Veneto, Rome was filled with
OFW Notes The Piazza di San Pietro was filled with millions of people,
and all the streets, from the Via del Conciliazione leading to
hardworking, laughing, joking, sometimes cry-
ing, but always rowdy and ‘masaya’ Filipinos!
Cita Abad-Dinglasan the Vatican were filled with wall-to-wall people of all nation- The Filipino OFWs in Italy must be the largest
alities, professions and stations in life. Many were European, Asian group in Europe. I understand many are
specially the Polish, bringing food, rosaries to be blest, or their concentrated in Milan and Venice as well. A good
suitcases or sleeping bags with them as they filed boisterously friend of mine Marco Roberto Ascione, a reverse
in line to pay a last visit to their prince. There were many OFW from the Murano Glass Group, tells me that
Americans too, as usual looking very healthy (compared to he loves visiting Manila because the Filipinos are
their skinnier European counterparts) and wealthy and very like the Italians in temperament, passion, family
well-prepared for the cold of winter, with the latest in hi-tech and style. Grazie!
digital cameras, mobile phones, portable chairs, comfortable In the 1980s, on a family vacation from
shoes, and fur- or down-lined jackets. We met Filipinos from Hillsborough, California to the Eternal City, I
California and New York too, who like us, had dropped every- noticed a large number of Filipinas by the Piazza
thing to say “Arrivederci!” to our beloved Pope. d’Spagna. I was thrilled that there were so many
The Vatican government had considerately left out moun- Filipino tourists and excitedly noted to my chil-
tains of blankets every several yards for anyone to take and dren that the Philippine economy must be really
use against the freezing winds blowing and buffeting the doing wonderfully for them to be travelling in
throngs of people who were waiting many hours in line. There droves! I asked the Filipinos where else they
were also cases of bottled water stacked high and given free were touring, and they replied that they were
to anyone thirsty. And of course, portable toilets were nearby. ‘permanent’ residents.
A Manila visitor commented wrily that had those blankets Many turned out to be TNTs (one did not
and water been left out on the streets of Manila, they would need a visa then,) and teachers were working as
have vanished in a flash. ‘ragatsas’ or maids. I was horrified. My mother
Color me Sunsilk
Sunsilk brought on a breakthrough in hair care
technology with the Colour Shine System, which was
unveiled with the Museum of Colour and Style exhibit
last Feb. 5 at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel.
Eleven young movers and shakers of their
respective fields displayed the new Sunsilk look.
Lensman Victor Consunji photographed supermodel-
turned-photographer Jo Ann Bitagcol, physician and
dermatology resident Anna Palabyab, professional
model and yoga instructor Raya Mananquil, musician
and writer Alessandra Tinio, Vice President for
International Sales of Globe Asiatique Realty Holdings
Corp. Divine Lee, radio jock and newscaster Andi
Manzano, singer Savannah Lumen, futsal instructor and
theatre actress China Cojuangco, model and designer
Mika Lagdameo, fashion designer Debbie Co, and TV
lifestyle reporter Marie Lozano.
The ladies had their hair colored according to their
Dawn’s Jacobo goes for Gain Plus personalities—Andi, Savannah, China and Mika went
naturally brown with the help of George Bantolino
of Sir George Salon; Divine, Alessandra and Debbie
With one-year-old Jacobo lording over her utmost attention, life were treated to vibrant burgundy by Nelson Cruz of
has truly changed for celebrity mom Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo. Though Essensuals Toni & Guy; while Marie, Jo Ann, Ana and
riding high with a successful career comeback, Dawn is hands-on in Raya deepened their color with the elegance of black
caring for Jacobo, who was born to the Lagdameo couple two months with the help of Gio Ledesma of David’s Salon.
earlier than expected. The Sunsilk Colour Shine System comes in three
For Jacobo’s developmental progress, Dawn took on advertising variants: Radiant Light Brown with passion fruit
Gain Plus Advance, which was also the milk formula prescribed by complex, Dazzling Shiny Black with black pearl complex,
Jacobo’s pediatrician. The commercial was launched last Feb. 27 at the and Vibrant Burgundy with red cherry complex. Each
Makati Shangri-La Hotel. is formulated with nutri-proteins, Vitamin E and shine
“Gain Plus Advance is perfect in the sense that it encompasses all my protectors to nourish and moisturize color-treated hair
expectations in a milk formula to help develop Jacobo’s early learning without depositing colour. It only takes three simple
skills,” Dawn said. steps, all of which are no stranger to any woman’s
beauty routine—shampoo, conditioner, and leave-on.
CondoCentral MARCH 2007
103
eye candy
Henri Eteve, Moden Life in High-Rise, 2006, paint pen on acrylic sheet, 53 3/8” x 51 3/4“
LIVE IT UP!
CONSTRUCTION IS ONGOING!
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Telephone numbers: (632) 815-8080; 727-4221; 727-1517, 726-2360
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