PHILIPPINES

Beauty and Bliss in High Living

With a Bang
and not a
whimper
the exchange
regency,
trevi towers,
gramercy
residences
Lush interiors,
Opulent design
Music to
our ears
An ‘Opus’ of
a thousand
flavors

P150
DISPLAY UNTIL october 15

The sound of
a great investment Published by
www.condo.com.ph
 editor’s note

Beauty and Bliss in High Living Condo

dweller, what?
Daniel R. dela Cruz
PUblisher

Carlomar Arcangel Daoana

Editor in chief

Chrysler de Guzman
Art director
It’s hard to start digging when and ums. Known for his ornate, European pieces,
Godwin Nerona
Layout artist
how “condo dwellers” became the de rigueur he is bringing to the country modern, Zen and
term to collectively describe those who have contemporary works that fit well in the decid-
Benhur Arcayan chosen to live hundred of feet above ground. edly sleek designs of condos.
Chief photographer
The term sounds special, specific, even po- Imagine how it would be like 10 years from
Dexter R. dela Cruz etic—the do of “condo” seamlessly links with now when the condos that are currently being
Editorial assistant
the dwe of “dweller,” locked into place by that built right now will be sheltering financially
Arnold A. Altamira curling r sound. confident individuals such as our cover story,
Felicisimo A. Tejuco, Jr. Not that I’m being a linguist. It’s just that it’s The Symphony Tower, located in the swingin’
Editorial CONSULTANTs
hard to miss how this breed of folks is asserting side of Quezon City. Or the Trevi Towers in Pa-
its own terminology, let alone its influence on song Tamo, Makati. Or perhaps, the Gramercy
the market. Condo Central is such a proof, not Residences (which was our cover story last July)
Contributors
to mention other products catered primar- that will emerge in the colossal community
Edwin Calica Cacayorin, Jr. ily to this segment of the market, if it can be called Century City. Will there be helicopters
Cita Y. Abad-Dinglasan called that: the svelte furniture and accessories for hire that will bring people from one tower
Renne Isidro
columnists custom-made to fit a small space, the services to another? How about vendo machines? Will
of interior designers specializing on condo they become so sophisticated that they can
Johanna Acab-Faustino
Matt Bienvenido units, the lunches and dinners delivered on the issue forth a well-cooked meal? And how about
Keith Bryan Cortez dot by enterprising cooks, the laundromats, robots that can clean a small space with the
Monique Francisco the pet “day school,” the home massages and push of a button?
Mariel Lorenzo
Roel Hoang Manipon everything and anything that makes the life of Right now, I’m typing this column with a
Dr. Adelaida V. Mayo a condo dweller easy. view of a high-end residential tower being
Jenny Orillos My point: condo dwellers will have a say on constructed. It’s still covered with nets and
Maripet L. Poso
Johanna Sampan market trends. As early as now, entrepreneurs fluorescent lights define the skeletal floors. In a
Writers should start conceptualizing products and ser- matter of months, it will be completed, abuzz
Nadia Camit-Upton (London) vices targeted for condo dwellers. As diverse in with different kinds of people living different
Reyann Kong (New York) personalities and tastes they may be, they have lives. Defined by the building they inhabit, they
correspondents common needs requisite for high-rise living. will navigate that space—oddly aware of the
Pranz Kaeno Billones The interesting personalities we are featuring city which is their view and hopefully, a kind
Rhoy Cobilla this issue are certified condo dwellers: from the companion next door. Yes, the future looks
Shaira Luna 19 year old Danielle Lee who operates the styl- savvy but it need not be hostile and cold.
Photographers
ish restaurant dubbed Opus to financial adviser
Al Sembrano, author of the guide to wealth,
Cherie Mae Ayongao 10 Sikreto ng mga Mayayaman. Lee is a special
Sales and Marketing Director case: she doesn’t only live in a condo, her fam-
ily develops some of them! Sembrano, on the
Editha B. Ignacio
Emma Mangalindan other hand, is reflective of Fil-Ams and OFWs
Cyd V. Ponce who come home to the country to invest in a
Account executives
unit or two.
Bong Cayanan Though not a condo dweller, Noel Gonzales,
Circulation manager the force behind Muebles Italiano, does furnish Carlomar Arcangel Daoana
Alfred Matrimonio and create interior lifestlyles for condomini- carlo@condocentral.com.ph
Web designer

 | CondoCentral
 Vol. I No. 12
September 2007
contents
is published by i n e v e ry i s s u e
www.condo.com.ph
6 Editor’s note 72 Condo Memo
Condo dweller, what? Strange bedfellows:
Daniel R. dela Cruz Carlomar Arcangel Daoana How to know when you’re ready to move in
President/CEO
together
Danilo R. dela Cruz, Jr. 40 Review Central Monique Francisco
chief operating officer
The hottest lifestyle picks
Bing Lau 78 Condo guide
Executive vice president 68 survey Your condominium hypermarket
Renne Isidro Peripheral Mission
SENIOR Vice president - ADmINISTRATION Arnold A. Altamira 88 central Market
and MaRKETING
Classified ads
Patrick R. Blanco 70 Legal
Vice president - SALES Legal Options 94 Happenings
Justin Park Atty. Edwin Calica Cacayorin, Jr. The newest café in the city
MANAGING DIRECTOR - Architectural brilliance at Wilcon
InTERNATIONAL SALES DIVISION

Jhun-Jhun Arcero
OPERATIONS MANAGER

Nel Garbanzos
administration
And COLLECTION OFFICER

Villanueva Gabionza
& De Santos Law Offices
Legal counsel

is published monthly
by Condo.Com.Ph, Inc.; 2nd Floor P&L
Building, 116 Legazpi St., Legaspi Village,
Makati City, Philippines; Tel. Nos. (632)
812-3333 Fax No. (632) 893-8134; E-mail
admin@condocentral.com.ph; Website
www.condocentral.com.ph. All rights
reserved. Opinions expressed in Condo
Central are solely those of writers and
are not necessarily endorsed by Condo.
Com.Ph, Inc. We welcome unsolicited
manuscripts and photographs. Kindly
accompany a self-addressed stamped
envelope if they are to be returned. While
every reasonable care will be taken by the
editor, no responsibility is assumed for
the said materials.

Advertising hotline: (632) 812-3333

Distributed by
Christian Commercial Corp.
Tel. Nos. (632) 521-6118, 522-3633
Fax No. (632) 521-7674
C O VER S T O RY

46 The Symphony Towers

Bringing high-rise residential living
in Quezon City on a high note

F E A T URES

Preview
50 Infinity in the shape of a condo 24 Man on top
52 OFWs’ reason to come home A gilded life
54 Make way for Trevi The man behind Muebles Italiano Noel
60 Of sunsets and serenity at Gonzales provides a fascinating contrast
Palawan Tower to the opulence of his furniture
62 Internal affairs

10 RevEAL 30 Showcase
Chandelier encounter Suite inspiration 3
The allure and sparkle of the A third serving of model
Novedades Iris Cristal units ala modé

96 epilogue
14 Feast The unbearable beingness of light
Opus’s day Melbourne-based photographer
Gustatory delights in a stylish setting Emmanuel Santos stands on the
shoulders of angels
20 Investment
Holding the secret key to wealth
Al Sembrano equips you with a book to find
your way into riches
 reveal
Chandelier encounter
In the heart of the ancient region
of Bohemia is the Iris Crystal factory
where the combination of traditional
methods and the latest technological
developments give the crystal lamps a
perfect finish and complete guarantee
of quality. Having an Iris Crystal chan-
delier hanging majestically anywhere
in your homes immediately puts you
in the level of monarchs.
From the leading source of fine
Italian furniture and objects of
grandeur, Muebles Italiano presents
another one of its exquisite line of
Novedades Iris Cristal chandeliers.
Muebles Italiano’s Iris Crystal has
10 | CondoCentral
several catalogues: Contemporary,
Classic, Maria Teresa, Components
and Novedades which inherits the
legacy of the craftsmen who, for
almost a century have made Bohemia
crystal famous and renowned. The
shine, transparency, and chromatics
of Bohemia crystal, together with
the craftsmanship skill of blowing,
cutting and shaping the crystal, give
its chandeliers a luxurious appearance
and perfection that create unique
sensations and atmospheres.
Muebles Italiano, the country’s
premier provider of authentic Italian
furniture lines and the one-stop shop
for many of Manila’s prominent fami-
lies and lovers of the ornate and the
opulent brings the culture of Bohemia
through its Novedades Iris Crystal.
Visit Muebles Italiano with its flagship
store at Alabang Corporate Center G/F
Km 25 West Service Road, SLEX Ala-
bang, Muntinlupa City or its branches
at Glorietta 4, Alabang Town Center,
MC Home The Fort, SM Megamall, SM
North Edsa and its two house show-
rooms in Ayala Heights in Quezon City
and Ayala Alabang. For inquiries, call
842-7036.
advertorial
Classic examples
of being modern
Ethan Allen unveils classic to casual contemporary
pieces, offering a wide array of furnishing solutions
to its discerning clients
Innovation has always been
one of the thrusts of Ethan Allen, the
country’s leading home furnishings
store. From classic to casual contem-
porary pieces – it offers a wide array
of furnishing solutions to its discern-
ing clients.
As it maintains to expand its eclec-
tic displays thru its “Classic Design.
Modern Perspective” campaign,
Ethan Allen is excited to introduce its
two newest collections this summer
– Modern Glamour and Horizons
Studio. Both were inspired by how the
people live today – relaxed, stylish
and very contemporary.
Modern Glamour is a collection
that fuses present day sophistication
with the allure of traditional form. It
blends the elegance of 21st century
modern design with 19th and 20th
century inspirations. With its clean,
classic design elements, it allows it to
blend seamlessly with a broad range
of furnishings and is suitable for use
in moderate to large rooms.
The Horizons Studio, on the
other hand, captures Ethan Allen’s
most modern furniture designs. The
inspirations are pure 20th century
classic modern with strong hori-
zontal lines and a mix of textures
that compose the foundation of this
line of sleek, low-profile silhouettes.
These new designs are especially
well sized and appropriate for city
spaces and smaller rooms.
Modern Glamour and Horizons
Studio are expected to attract new
clients to Ethan Allen as they combine
versatile and modern linear designs
with a fresh, new attitude that speak of
modern living.
To experience what these collections can
do to your home, you can visit the Ethan
Allen design center at Pioneer cor Reliance
St. in Mandaluyong City from Tuesday to
Sunday or talk to their design consultants at
634-8587. You can also check out it’s website
at focusglobalinc.com or drop them a line at
ethanallen@focusglobalinc.com.
 feast
Opus’s day
Roel Hoang Manipon breaks bread with condo dweller and
restaurateur Danielle Lee who shares her passion for food and all
things white and reveals her opus of a thousand flavors
At a corner of Metrowalk, a
small dining and shopping complex
at the edge of the Ortigas business
center, the newly opened Opus glows
in white paint and blue lights. The
restaurant-bar can accommodate only
about 40 persons, but it exudes an air
of mock elegance with its minimalist
interiors, clean lines and immacu-
late paint. One may think the food
being served here is “sanitized”–too
chic to be flavorful and too safe to
be exciting. On the contrary, unlike
many restaurants in the area that are
too big in atmosphere to mask food
either not given much attention or
overly tinkered with, Opus holds a few
surprises.
“I love white,” says owner Danielle
Danielle Lee discovered early
on her passion for food. Lee, explaining that the color con-
14 | CondoCentral
notes a bit about herself: Simple, a
catch-all word to mean something
straightforward, easy, unburdened
with affectation or anything regarded
to be complicated, and thus good.
Many things surrounding Lee are not
really “simple,” however, considering
she is only 19 years old. That is one
surprise: the owner is too young to
own and manage a restaurant.
With a very pretty face and a com-
fortable background, she is supposed
to be partying, studying and if doing
some work on the side, modeling. Lee,
like her older sister Divine, has done
some modeling, and is studying to
become an entrepreneur. She says her
parents raised her in a strict manner,
which has made her quite disciplined.
And independent, too, now that
she is living on her
Cheesecake
 Opus can accommodate only
about 40 persons, but it exudes
an air of mock elegance with its
minimalist interiors, clean lines
and immaculate paint.

CondoCentral | 15
16 | CondoCentral
own in a condo unit, doing many of
the chores and now earning her keep.
With a restaurant, she breaks the
common notion about people of her
age and stature, but confirms concep-
tion on her ethnic background. Being
of Chinese descent, she must have
inherited the business acumen and
started early. The business acumen
will be seen in time. About the mat-
ter of starting early in business, Lee
worked for a time in her full-blooded
Chinese father’s real estate and con-
dominium company Globe Asiatique.
While her sister Divine became vice
president for sales in the company,
she chose to put up her own business.
It was only last April that she
really seriously thought of putting
up a restaurant. It was a dream of
hers, to share her passion for food
and cooking. This she inherited from
her mother Maria Victoria Lee, who
used to own a flower shop. At a very
early age, her mother allowed her to
tinker around the kitchen. Lee says
she learned how to cook at the age of
three, which meant she didn’t burn
the hotdogs. But by six, by the guid-
ance of her mother, she knew how to
cook the complicated kare-kare from
scratch. Next she learned to cook
Chinese and started experimenting.
“I want to share my food,” she
says, recalling that she would have
friends over and cook for them. Now,
she wants to share her food with the
larger public, so a restaurant is but a
logical next step.
From April until its opening on Aug.
8, an auspicious date for the Chinese,
Lee has been hands-on from the interi-
ors to the recipes. She even trained the
waiters herself, she relates, and to an
amusing degree. She told them how to
serve, even though she had no back-
ground in restaurant management.
She just happened to know how, she
says. She even designed their uniforms
and gave them grooming kits, which
the waiters really like. They even wear
scents recommended by her. Every-
thing reflects herself, Lee adds.
The menu is of personal impor-
tance. It is virtually a compilation of
her favorites. Thus compiled, she had
it looked over by the chefs. For the
food, she got some help from chef
Blanche Hontiveros and consultant
Redd Agustin, who both have impres-
sive culinary backgrounds.
“I love them!” she exclaims about
her helpful staff. And she also loves
her food.
The menu is largely Filipino. There
is a sprinkling of Ilocano influence,
which more likely comes from her
boyfriend Ryan Singson, son of former
Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson.
He also taught her how to drink, she
relates. She is proud of her bar menu.
The Filipino in the food here is
a more encompassing term, which
includes the traditional, as well as the
ones that have become part of the
Filipino’s ordinary diet, like corned beef.
Lee calls her food “updated” or
“modern Filipino cuisine.” For her, this
is simply put as Filipino dishes served
on modern plates instead of palayok
and banana leaves. It may sound a tad
simplistic, but it has a point. To be
served on chic square plates, the dishes
must be very presentable, and Filipino
dishes traditionally and largely lack in
visual appeal. To be more precise, the
dishes are given modern twists, and it
is not fusion, the chefs aver. As part of
the update, the dishes are given mod-
ern names, sometimes fancy.
Opus’s menu lists 54 dishes. The top
eight, which was an excruciating selec-
tion, according to Lee, are called her
Eight Masterpieces. It includes North Clockwise from top left:
and South, the pork sisig rolls, Twisted Bagnet Salad, Tuna Salad, Big Boy
Burger and North & South which
Pate, Big Boy, bulalo con sinigang, ban-
combines two recognizable food
gus and pork crackling, tuna salad and items of the Ilocos region and
crisp chicken and pork pasta. General Santos City: the bagnet
The certified bestseller of the and the tuna.
restaurant, even this early, is North
and South (P200), so named because
it combines two recognizable food
items of the Ilocos region of northern
Luzon and General Santos City in
Mindanao: the bagnet and the tuna.
Chunks of the crunchy pork and raw
tuna meat are mixed together with
a dressing of sinamak, the coconut
water vinegar popular in the Visayas,
and coconut milk.
Another bagnet dish in the menu is
the bagnet salad. The bagnet salad com-
CondoCentral | 17
 bines two quintessential Vigan fares:
the bagnet and the KBL. KBL stands for
kamatis (tomato), bagoong and lasona
(the local shallot). The tomato and
shallot are diced and drizzled with fish
bagoong, making a delicious side salad, a
favorite among the Ilocanos.
Chunks of bagnet are mixed with
diced tomatoes and onions. Chef
Redd thought of using another kind
of bagoong, the bagoong alamang,
mixing it with honey and vinegar to
make a very delectable dressing. The
dish is topped with sprigs of cilantro,
one of my favorite herbs. I would pick
the leaves off the stem and carefully
skewer a leaf with my fork together
with a piece of tomato, onion and
bagnet. The result is a pleasurable
symphony of textures and flavors.
Opus took the favorite pulutan,
which originated in Pampanga, and
has it neatly wrapped like a lumpia.
The pork sisig rolls (P160) contains
grilled pork and liver, diced and sau-
téed with spices and held together by
egg batter. This is wrapped in lumpia
wrapper and then fried. The rolls are
served with a Thai chili glaze.
An American food item that has
become a favorite of Filipinos is the
hamburger. Here, it is served hefty.
The Big Boy burger, they call it, and it is
grilled sirloin beef burger topped with
fried egg, bacon, melted cheddar
cheese and sautéed mushrooms.
This is served with tomatoes and
lettuce on the side.

18 | CondoCentral Bangus and chicharon sisig

 The Italian pasta has also crept
into the Filipino table. Here, the pasta
is served with a Filipino flair. Crisp
chicken and pork pasta (P190) has
linguine pasta drenched with a savory
adobo-infused cream sauce and
topped with chicken and pork adobo
flakes. It is surprisingly yummy.
The tuna salad (P190) is more
Japanese-inspired. The tuna is perfectly
seared and encrusted with sesame
seeds. It is nestled on a bed of mixed
greens drizzled with honey-wasabi-gin-
ger vinaigrette, another dish worth a try.
The more familiar milkfish comes
as bangus and pork crackling (P180),
which is boneless bangus cooked in
sisig-style marinade. to the Eight Masterpieces. One is the From top: Adobo Pasta,
Of course, every Filipino menu corned beef steak, which has a large Corned Beef Steak and
Sinigang na Bulalo.
must have the sour soup sinigang. chunk of corned beef served with
Here, two favorite soups are blended roasted onions, mushroom, garlic
together with surprising results. The mashed potato and soy infused gravy.
Bulalo con sinigang is bulalo and sini- The seafood in ginger coco cream
gang in one dish. The beef chunks and consists of prawns, tuna, snapper,
bone marrow are cooked with tradi- squid cooked in coconut cream. Then
tional sinigang vegetables in tamarind there are the usual treats-kare-kare,
nam pla broth. Served with jasmine crispy pata, gambas -- which are also
rice, this is perfect for rainy days. recommendable.
The restaurant also serves other The dessert list is limited but
sinigang variations, including sinigang special. The cheesecake is light and
na liempo at spare ribs (pork belly and smooth. The brownies are round,
spare rib sour soup) and sinigang na moist and drenched with chocolate
sugpo at puso ng saging (prawn and icing. These are serves with fruit salsa,
banana blossom sour soup). diced fruits in sugar ginger syrup.
The most exotic in the list is the Among the rows of flashy restau-
Twisted pate (P130). The Southeast rants, Opus, with its uncluttered
Asian delicacy of duck embryo, which look and creative dishes, is a pleasant
is sold here on the streets, is given a surprise.
“gourmet” treatment. The balut and
chicken liver are pureed with thyme
and cream, and spiked with local rum. Opus Resto-Bar is open 11 a.m. to 3
Then the blend is spread on crostinis. a.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday
What a lovely way to make a dish out and Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. on
of the balut. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Another balut dish in the menu
is not for the squeamish. The balut
and prawns (P190) has whole shelled
balut and prawns cooked in
oyster sauce and chili sauce
reduction.
There are other no-
table items in the menu,
which could have made it

CondoCentral | 19
 investment
Holding the
secret key to wealth
10 Sikreto ng mga Mayayaman author Al Sembrano reveals to
Carlomar Arcangel Daoana that the path to wealth, though
appearing circuitous if not downright impossible, is well-paved and
accessible to those who have the right information
“People don’t know that there’s
an invisible gun pointed at their heads
right now,” begins Al Sembrano, au-
thor of 10 Sikreto ng mga Mayayaman
which, as its title suggests, reveals
and strategizes for the common folks
the secrets of the rich enabling them
to acquire wealth. He says this in a
matter-of-fact tone, expounding that
most of us, having no clear financial
plan, are standing on the brink of
poverty and bankruptcy and with just
a little push can make us fall, thus the
analogy.
Financial adviser It is precisely this concern which
and author Al tackles in his projected 10-book
Al Sembrano series, the first of which currently
enjoys brisk sales in bookstores. He is
no self-styled self-help guru or a CEO
spewing nuggets of wisdom in a been-
there-done-that mode but an honest-
to-goodness financial adviser whose
exposure to wealth management has
equipped him with a bird’s eyeview on
the internal workings of personal and
business finance.
The book actually emerged from his
personal crusade to understand why
other people are on the other side of
the fence, enjoying the comforts and
luxuries of life while others struggle
to keep ends meet. “I was born in
Cagayan de Oro, very very poor,” he
says. “I was just fascinated and envious
why kids on the other side of town
20 | CondoCentral
and kids who came to the house had
nicer toys, better clothes than I had…I
became obsessed with money at a
young age, way back when I was six
years old.”
The young Al would quiz the
people who would drop by in their
20 sq.m. house, usually Chinese
merchants, politicians and business-
men to solicit advice from their
father gifted with great PR skills. In
Bisaya, he would ask them how did
they become rich and what were
the secrets behind it. Growing up,
he would ask his friends how their
parents made it.
It’s no wonder that eventually, Al
would focus on a career that dealt
with money and continue asking
the questions to his clients, whether
direct or indirect, on how “I can
improve myself through subtle ac-
quisition of wealth through informa-
tion.” Doing it for the last 30 years,
Al has accumulated over 2,000 pages
of vital, most of it hand-written
information that would eventually
fill the pages of the 10 Sikreto ng mga
Mayayaman series.
Al saw the impact of that in-
formation when people, who had
solicited and applied his advice, had
their lives turned around. Al was
invigorated, happy with the “changes
in people’s lives just based on the
words that I was saying.” Banks, se-
curity firms, insurance companies in
the United States—where his prac-
tice is largely concentrated—have
sought his opinion and paid him for
his good advice. Wanting to share
the knowledge to many people, Al
embarked on the ten-book project
which, as the author describes, “just
basically wrote itself.”
What he did was simply structure,
polish, and pull the loose ends of
the information he culled through
the years to make it understandable
to and easy to digest for common
folks. Indeed, the register of the
book is conversational, teeming
with many anecdotes, examples, and
stories that couch abstract ideas in
realistic terms.
In studying his notes, Al tried to
find the common denominator of
what his interviewees have revealed.
“Almost everyone told me in different
ways, build yourself first,” he says. “If
you got issues with your marriage, fix
that first. If you have issues being shy,
build your confidence first. If you have
issues being a leader, fix yourself first.
If you have issues being lazy wanting
to learn, going back to school, that’s
the problem with you and not with
anybody else. Make that decision that
a better life, a wealthy life is what you
want and only from that point that
you start moving forward.”
Book 1 lengthily covers the topic
of “Build Yourself First,” a prepara-
tory crash course, if you may, in one’s
pursuit of wealth. Here, Al uncovers
negative thinking that is the im-
pediment to success, reveals ways in
order to overcome it, suggests ways
on how to deal with both permanent
and temporary failures, concluding
with a well conceptualized “tactical
plan of action” that one can use in
systematically plotting and organiz-
ing one’s goals.
There’s no better time to start
drafting goals and planning one’s
financial future than now. “One thing
I noticed about many Filipinos, we
don’t have a lot of direction, we don’t
have goals,” he remarks. “If you want
to have a life, what would that life
be? Would it be the life that you have
right now? If God came down from
heaven and grant you everything you
want to have complete happiness,
what would that be? What lifestyle
would that be?”
It’s not enough, Al maintains, to
articulate one’s dreams. One needs to
specifically know how much it will cost
to turn them into a reality. “Can you
give me a price tag on that lifestyle,”
he asks. “In other words, how much do
you need on a monthly basis or a lump
sum for you to be able to have that
lifestyle? If you ask people, they don’t
have an idea. In other words, you really
have to define what life you want.”
One should also realize that though
a life of good and wealth is for every-
body, one needs to pay the price, says
Al, contrary to what the mumbo-jum-
bo of self-help books and get-rich-fast
schemes would want us to believe.
“If the price means getting up at six
o’clock in the morning, if the price
is you have to go back to school, if
the price is having a full time job and
working sideline, you have to do it and
be pro-active in creating wealth and
making money. It’s all in our power
to make money and it’s just making
the firm decision that ‘yes, I wanna
make money, yes, I wanna be rich.’ Get
involved with as many opportunities
as you can.”
If any, Al is the sober voice amid
the cackle of authors promising
instant wealth and happiness with
nary an effort devoted. He—with
his meticulous attention to financial
details, far-ranging experience in the
field, and the confidence of someone
who has made it—can guide us to the
place of abundance with less pitfalls
and more possibility. Action is what
will kickstart what in our hearts we
aspire to achieve. “All of this living,
thinking, feeling a life of abundance is
no good unless you put it into action,
the action is the key that makes things
happen,” he says. “Ultimately, it’s up
to you to take the action that applies
to your life.”
10 Sikreto ng mga Mayayaman is avail-
able in major bookstores. Visit www.
Sikreto.com for more information.
CondoCentral | 21
advertorial
Camella Prestige’s Pacific Residences:
Evolving urban living standards
Camella Prestige is evolving real estate standards to complement the lifestyle
and living requirements of Filipinos
A community of grand design and
with an entire range of real estate
options located right inside the
metropolis is truly an excellent find.
The leader in developing attainable
yet luxuriously-appointed, veritable
investment residences, Camella
Prestige recently embarked on its first
inner-city development, the Pacific
Residences in Taguig City.
Camalla Prestige is a proud mem-
ber of Vista Land and Lifescapes,
Inc., the Philippines’ largest home-
builder offering homes for all income
segments and catering to different
lifestyles across the entire country.
Evolving for the Filipino family
Camella Prestige is evolving real
estate standards to complement the
lifestyle and living requirements of Filipi-
nos diligently working for their family’s
future. Every development is guided by
the four cornerstones of a truly presti-
gious yet unpretentious residential com-
munity: intricate and master-planned
design, added diversity of home options,
premium location, and utilizing only
top-of-the-line materials.
Already under full-blast construction,
Pacific Residences is a self-contained,
fully-integrated community with a
collection of condominiums, single-at-
tached homes and townhomes, influ-
enced by the distinctive architecture of
neo-Victorian San Francisco.
An enclave of
well-appointed homes
Pacific Residences has an enclave
of well-appointed homes to provide
ample space as your children grow
and the family’s living requirements
escalate. The Natalie single-attached
homes, with a floor area of 111 sq.m.
on a min. 99 sq.m. lot includes three
bedrooms, three toilets and baths, a
balcony, carport, a room for house-
hold help and provisions for a lanai.
The Pamela single-attached homes,
with a floor area of 94 sq.m. on a min.
88 sq.m. lot, has a spacious living
room, three bedrooms, two toilets
and baths, a balcony and carport.
Each of these homes are elegantly
designed with eye-catching details,
exuding a subtle charm reflecting the
lifestyle tastes of residents.
Vertical residences
The condominium enclave of
Pacific Residences features a resort-
style ambiance, has three five-storey,
low-rise towers offering accommoda-
tions for upwardly mobile individuals
and their families: one-bedroom units
with a 23 sq.m. of floor area, two-bed-
room and three-bedroom units with
floor spaces of 40 sq.m. and 55 sq.m.,
respectively. Parking slots are available
as well. Price begins at Php 1.2 million.
Townhomes surpassing
urban standards
The Queen Townhomes offer four
models with floor areas ranging from
136 sq.m. to 177 sq.m. and lot areas from
89 sq.m. to 106 sq.m. With high ceilings
and modern interiors, these three-storey
townhomes are luxuriously spacious by
urban standards. The carport is situated
in the rear of each unit so that residents
may fully enjoy the picturesque San
Francisco-inspired streetscape.
Lifestyle amenities
Complementing the array of residen-
tial options is a commercial area com-
plete with entertainment and lifestyle
facilities. The area will have choice shops,
cafés and restaurants to evoke the ambi-
ance of San Francisco’s Union Square.
Leisure amenities at Pacific
Residences lends a new meaning to
“inner-city” living with the existence
of a multi-purpose hall with a fitness
center, swimming pool, and playpark.
The outdoors offer instant rejuvena-
tion as well with meditation trails,
wide jogging paths, and bike lanes
spread around the community.
Strategic site
Pacific Residences boasts an unbeat-
able location in terms of value and prox-
imity, because it is located on Taguig Di-
version Road in Taguig City just off the
C-5 artery, within a 5-kilometer radius
of Makati. Fort Bonifacio is a next-door
neighbor, with Market! Market! a short
drive away. The Ortigas business center
is a mere 15-minute ride to the north
with Quezon City just beyond; the
South Luzon Expressway and the Ninoy
Aquino International Airport are equally
accessible in the other direction.
The continuing success of Pacific
Residences inspired Camella Prestige
to launch another prime development
to meet the discerning tastes and
living requirements of more Filipino
families, The Laureano di Trevi Tow-
ers, a 5,000 sq.m. high-rise residence
right in front of Don Bosco Technical
School in Pasong Tamo, Makati City.
For more information about Camella
Prestige’s Pacific Residences, contact tele-
phone numbers 496.2420, 0918.927.9270889,
496.8032 and 0927.5250752 or visit
www.camellaprestige.com
 man on top

A gilded life
In a first magazine appearance, Noel Gonazales, the
man behind Muebles Italiano, reveals to Carlomar
Arcangel Daoana the grandeur of his home limned
in gold, the inspired wisdom behind his business and
his life’s one true wealth.
Photography by Benhur Arcayan

Noel Gonazales, proprietor of

Muebles Italiano, is blessed. And that’s
not hard to see as one admires his
stately house in Ayala, Alabang. It’s a
rich evocation of anything exquisite
and beautiful when it comes to Italian
and Spanish design: baroque Louis
the XIV chairs, sofas upholstered
in the most lustrious of silk, hand-
crafted crystals such as the horse in
full gallop, an intricate grandfather’s
clock fit for any monarch’s mansion,
all made goldenly ablaze by dripping
chandeliers.
Yet, the man of the house provides
an interesting, contrasting back-
ground to everything around him. He
is, to put it simply, down-to-earth,
prone to smiling, and talks in a tone
The man behind one as though he were giving an advice.
of the most successful Waking up in this house every single
furniture boutiques in the
country, Noel Gonzales. day feels good, he admits, and much
so possibly because Noel wasn’t born
with a silver spoon in his mouth.
It seems, however, that Noel has been
born to become a salesman. Twenty
three years ago, he had a small gift shop
featuring décor at Cash N Carry. The
dreamer that he was, he turned his house
in Pasay City into a modest furniture
showroom which served as a salient mar-
keting pitch for his clients. “It was a step-
ping stone for me to close more deals,”
he says. “When they saw the house
His Ayala Alabang
properly arranged with the furniture in it, home also serves as a
they appreciated the pieces more.” showroom for his much
It’s in the same philosophy that his beloved clients.
current house, where he and his family

24 | CondoCentral
CondoCentral | 25
 has been living for nine years now, had
been built and organized. It does look
every inch perfect—no off-tilted canvas,
no scratches on the floor, no lint on the
sofa—because it also functions as show-
room, on top of the other eight located
in different parts of Metro Manila.
“When they see the model show-
room, clients get to know what is still
lacking in their house,” Noel says. “They
can easily visualize the outcome of their
house (through it). You can entice your
client to buy more things that catch
their fancy.”
The master’s bedroom
Noel says that he doesn’t get tired
where Noel and his wife
Eileen repair after a hard talking to his clients for hours, even if
day’s work. in the end, they wouldn’t buy a single
26 | CondoCentral
piece. What is important to him is
establishing a relationship with them.
Some of his clients from his Cash N
Carry days still purchase items from
him. His brand of service is so well-
known among the well-heeled that
they won’t mind recommending Noel
to their families and friends.
That doesn’t mean that he already
rests on his laurels. Noel scours
European exhibitions—especially that
of Milan and Valencia— for exquisite,
one-of-a-kind pieces. “I never stop
sourcing what I think is important to
my business. That’s why my clients
are surprised that there are so many
beautiful pieces in Muebles Italiano.
We continuously research what we
think is best for our clients.”
If he has seen the pieces already
existing in stores back home, Noel
would no longer purchase them, so
as to provide breathing room for the
competition. It acts conversely, of
course: Muebles Italiano is known
for its classical, baroque, Louis XIV
European pieces that any attempt to
copy Muebles Italiano’s existing lines
will simply be considered an exercise
in flattery. What would be hard to
replicate, however, is Noel’s “extra
service”: a group of architects and
interior designers are at a ready to
provide their design opinions at no
cost to Muebles Italiano’s clients.
This father of five admits that most
of their pieces cater to a sector of
the market considered elite but Noel
maintains that their price tag is but a
reflection of the detail and care im-
bued in them. “Every piece of funiture
and decoration we carry, it is a work
of art. It’s made by the most skilled
craftsmen of Italy and Spain. I always
tell my clients, whenever you buy these
pieces of European furniture, they are
an investment for a lifetime. As the
furniture ages, it’s real beauty emerges.
It doesn’t tarnish over the years.”
Those who want to bring home
an item from Muebles Italiano who

CondoCentral | 27
 Noel sources his
furniture and
accessories from only
the best suppliers in
Italy and Spain.

may not have the power to sign a

check on a whim can look forward to
its “reasonably priced” items which
are sourced from China. “In the last
four years of our business, because
of globalization, we started to bring
in goods from Asia, especially from
China,” he says. “We just need to tell
the clients what are the works that are
made in China, Spain and Italy. You
have to tell the truth and tell it right
because a lie will never do.”
Aside from affordable products,
Muebles Italiano is also offering mod-
ern, Zen and contemporary works
that readily appeal to young, upwardly
mobile individuals. These will appear
in a special section in the soon-to-rise
Muebles Italiano flagship, stand-alone
branch in Paseo de Magallenes.
With a company which, after more
than two decades, just keeps on ex-
panding, Noel can’t help but be thank-
ful. His stratospheric rise is one for the
books—proof that big dreams do come.
“If I look back at my humble beginnings,
I had never imagined that one day, I can
experience this kind of life. I’m thankful
for the many blessings, especially with
the wealth of friends who have trusted,
loved, and treated me like their own
son, like their own brother.”
God, Noel says, is the force and aim
behind his success—the one true light
that shines in his life. He doesn’t ask for
anything more except to be of further
service to his clients. “We always aim
for perfection. But they always say that
perfection is impossible to achieve. But if
you try to do something that you would
really love to do, you will come to a point
which is near perfection. So why not? As
long as you can satisfy your clients at the
end of the day, that they are happy with
what they have bought, that’s more than
enough,”he concludes.

28 | CondoCentral
 showcase

Suite
inspiration 3
Model units have personalities. A Zen-
like room with minimal furniture and elemental
details exudes a simplistic, thoughtful appeal
while a suite furnished to the hilt with gilded
ornaments and wrapped in damask betrays a
Baroque sensibility.
Developers, just to be safe, let their model unit
creations straddle between these two examples,
with the hope to titillate as many viewers as they
can. A model unit too simple may strike potential
buyers as bare and lacking in imagination while a
heavily decorated interior may be misunderstood
as pretentious and stand-offish.
Precariously balancing the demands of aesthetic
and function, a well-crafted model unit is both
pleasing and utilitarian, stylish and sensible. It’s
up to the person what he will do with the space
once he occupies it: whether to be enveloped by
elegance or propelled by practicality.

Sentosia
Parañaque City
For viewing request, call your
professional real estate broker
at (632) 812-3333

30 | CondoCentral
CondoCentral | 31
 Exchange
Regency
Pasig City
For viewing request, call your
professional real estate broker
at (632) 812-3333

32 | CondoCentral
 La Vie
Muntinlupa City
For viewing request, call your
professional real estate broker
at (632) 812-3333

CondoCentral | 33
 GA
Sky Suites
Quezon City
For viewing request, call your
professional real estate broker
at (632) 812-3333

34 | CondoCentral
CondoCentral | 35
 Bay Garden
Palawan Tower
Pasay City
For viewing request, call your
professional real estate broker
at (632) 812-3333

36 | CondoCentral
Symphony
Towers
Quezon City
For viewing request, call your
professional real estate broker
at (632) 812-3333

CondoCentral | 37
advertorial
Finding warmth
in local decor
in this season of rain
Kultura Filipino offers some more to give you that added
comfort during your rainy day stay at home
It’s the rainy season once again
and we find ourselves quite unsure of
our love/hate relationship with the wet
months. whether we love or hate it.
Maybe it’s the cool breeze or smell of
clean grass we wake up to after a quiet
storm the night before. But there’s also
that gloomy feeling brought by sullen
darkness, the noise of strong winds and
heavy drops of rain that force us into
bouts with lethargy and make us too
lazy to get out of bed that we just want
to stay home. Now wouldn’t it just be
nice to be reminded of the sun we miss
too much during the rainy season?
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a feel of our
country’s tropic paradise amid all the
rain? Well, we can get just that from
Kultura Filipino – and then some more.
Kultura Filipino offers just that during
the rainy days.
What could be a better reminder
of our Philippine beaches than the
different scores of seashell products
we find in this exceptional all-Filipino
products store? Triton shell and tonna
oleria lamps add a nautical touch to
any room. Seashell clocks, paper-
weights, frames and displays give off
their natural shine and luster. Seashell
curtains and coconut shells are
perfect as they offer a new rhythm in
tropical sounds. Then there are the
seashell accessories and bags that
Filipinos and expats alike just can’t
get enough off. Necklaces, bracelets
and bags come in various designs and
colors that will fit everyone’s style. apparel that literally and illustratively
From the simple shell necklaces for reminds us of the country’s clear and
everyday use to the elegantly and sunny natural highlights. One finds
heavily adorned pieces that come in shirts and sandos that have pictures
different shapes and multiple strands, and labels of the many tourist attrac-
ladies sure come off with an earthy tions in the Philippines that bring
and trendy appeal. back memories and a smile amidst a
And then there’s also that beautiful rainy and gloomy day.
token of the island seas that give finery Snapshots of the countryside also
and appealing art in our home table- paint images of tropical Philippines.
ware and dinnerware. Kultura Filipino Home furniture undergoes a fusion
offers pieces made of capiz shells such of Western urban designs with finely
as placemats, trays, coasters, plates shaped and polished wood that gives
and bowls handcrafted to perfection homes an earthy and warm feel.
to provide beautiful iridescence. Also, Chairs and tables in light and dark
one cannot miss the other dining and browns, some made of wood, some
cooking items made from handwoven of rattan, and others of bamboo look
rattan and polished wood. exquisite and leave a clean finish both
Of course, there’s the souvenir inside and outside the house. Wooden
fixtures and statues also add to the and nights lively. And for the smokers and full-bodied or bold and spicy. Yes, The exquisite showroom
of Kultura Filipino
earthy tone. And just as important who love the comfort of cigars during rainy days often mean “stay home” featuring the best local
as the countryside ambience these a cold rainy day, they will surely like days. But add to that the great pos- design flavor.
furniture evoke is the durability of the Philippine-made premium cigars sibility of being drawn toward things
these pieces. Indeed, no harm is done packed in hand-crafted boxes made Filipino. After all, there is no better
despite some rain showers drawn from Narra wood. Hand-rolled and way of remembering the bright sunny
against these earthen elements. meticulously inspected, these cigars days we miss so much than feeling
Kultura Filipino offers some more come in different flavors - smooth their vibe and touch.
to give you that added comfort during
your rainy day stay at home. A mix of
food items like dried fruit products,
an assortment of nuts and various
delicacies such as turones de kasoy,
pastillas, pinipig bars, and piyaya are
excellent munchies as you lounge
around the house. Bottles of berry
wine, basi, and lambanog are great
to be enjoyed as friends and family
gather together to make their days
 review
central
reveal

top of the list

tv

tv
Marian Rivera mesmerizes as Marimar
GMA Network brings the most-
awaited treat to primetime viewers
with the launch of the new Marimar
Filipinos can truly call their own.
With the most bankable Filipino ac-
tors portraying the well-loved roles
in the original Mexican series, GMA
Network’s version will definitely feel
closer to home.
Playing the coveted title role is
versatile actress Marian Rivera, who
emerged among a promising crop of
talented actresses who auditioned
for the part. As Marimar, Marian
gives a fresh twist to the phenomenal
character. Also tasked to “Filipinize”
the Mexican series’ equally popular
character of Sergio Santibañez is
matinee idol Dingdong Dantes, who
is set to show a new dimension to his
acting capacity and make more hearts
swoon to his striking good looks.
The story of Marimar bespeaks
a journey of a young lass who has
been deprived of everything that was
rightfully hers. Separated from her
real parents – the wealthy Gustavo
Aldama (Jestoni Alarcon) and the
poor Lupita (Rita Avila) – at a young
age, Marimar was found and raised
by the old couple Lolo Pancho (Leo
Martinez) and Lola Cruz (Caridad
Sanchez), who treat her as their own
grandchild. Not knowing that she is
the sole heiress to the riches of Don
Gustavo Aldama, Marimar lives a
modest and carefree life by the sea.
She befriends the ambitious Angelika,
who later holds the greatest grudge
against her due to an incident that is
beyond Marimar’s control.
Angelika (Katrina Halili) becomes
the girlfriend of Sergio Santibañez
(Dingdong Dantes), but her selfishness
and gold-digging nature is further
manifested when she marries Sergio’s
father, the resort tycoon Renato San-
tibañez (Richard Gomez). Devastated
by the betrayal of the woman he
loves, Sergio vows to retaliate against
his father and ex-girlfriend. He meets
the unassuming Marimar, who easily
falls in love with him.
Marimar’s complicated and tor-
mented life begins when she agrees to
marry Sergio and is subjected to the
cruelty of Angelika in the Santibañez
mansion. Here starts Marimar’s awak-
ening to the harsh reality of what her
love for Sergio has done to her. And
when fate begins to favor the once
oppressed Marimar, how will she turn
the tables on Sergio and all the others
who once oppressed her?
Marimar airs weeknights in GMA-7’s
primetime Telebabad block.

grooming
Royal hotness
Captivate women with your mystery and
irresistible charm with Salvaggio Fire, a new mas-
culine scent that unleashes your sensual side.
This new fragrance from Fuller Life Direct Selling
Philippines, Inc. (formerly Sara Lee Direct Selling Phil-
ippines, Inc.), one of the country’s top distributors
of world-renowned brands, captures your wickedly
sexy side with its top notes of tangerine, lemon,
grapefruit, bergamot, and aldehydes, while middle
notes of rose, geranium, and hyacinth let you sizzle
with mystery and sensuality. Base notes of labdanum,
vanilla, fir balsam, musk, and honey let you express
your intense emotions and unrestrained passions.
Salvaggio Fire comes in two forms that will surely set
you on fire any time of the day. For instant release of sex-
iness during the day, let the handy Salvaggio Fire Pocket
Edition brings out your fiery essence. Red-hot nights
call for Salvaggio Fire Eau de Toilette, which promises to
express your mysterious side to mesmerize her.
If you have questions, need additional informa-
tion or wish to become a dealer, call the toll free
number 1-800-10 FULLER1 (1-800-10-3855371).

40 | CondoCentral
 review central

music

Standards never
sounded this good
If there is one thing that sepa-
rates Dianne Elise from girls of her age,
she knows how to take risks. For her
album Now & Then produced by Barn-
yard Music and distributed by Univer-
sal Records, Diane wrestles with some
of the world’s most beloved songs
that include “Wonderful World,”
“All the Way,” “The Way You Look
Tonight” and comes up with fresh,
soothing renditions that sound aptly
young, heartfelt and sincere—without
the vocal pyrotechnics that so have
marked many songs as of late.
Diane’s remake of the more popular
ballads “You’re the Inspiration,”
“Swept Away,” and “Land of the Lov-
ing” are as scintillating as well. Her
interpretations of such familiar tunes
are exactly what you want to listen
to over the radio or on your iPod as
your car navigates through impossible
traffic or as you drift serenely into
dreamland.
One should not skip her whimsi-
cal version of “Can’t Take my Eyes off
You” which is a depature from the
earnestness of her other covers. Here,
she proves that the chanteuse can also
be an enchantress.

beauty
Avocado on your skin
Skin Food’s Avocado line is for that
deep moisturizing, highly nutritious and
smooth, lustrous skin. A combination of
avocado oil rich in vitamin and protein and
extracts from sweet potato, inner skin of
green bamboo, water lily and lotus flower
prevents dehydration, roughness, wrinkles
and balances unstable oil production. As
the most nutritious of all fruits, avocado has
11 vitamins and 14 minerals, among which
Vitamin B is particularly rich and effective
in preventing aging and providing elastic-
ity and sheen to skin. If you have dry skin,
eating one everyday cures itchiness and
smoothens skin. Because of its role in reduc-
ing blood cholesterol, avocado is also called
the “fruit of life.”
SKIN FOOD is located at 2/F Bridgeway, SM
Megamall; 2/F Main Building, SM City North
Edsa; G/F Entertainment Hall, SM Mall of Asia;
and soon to open at 2/F Ayala Center Cebu, SM
Baguio and Rustans Essences.

42 | CondoCentral
 review central

art
Langenegger’s livid language
In Robert Langenegger’s Irish
Bull of the Mother & Child on view
until Sept. 11 at the Finale Art Gal-
lery (4/F SM Megamall A), the artist
creates a perplexing assortment of
works, positing and pitting against
each other the different artistic
themes and mannerisms (still life,
nudes, landscape, social realism)
melded into the dark, situationally
charged environments where pave-
ments and walls suffer as though
from abscess, trees are smothered
with ash, and hulking men easily
divulge raging erections.
Art, perceived as a lofty, pon-
derous exercise and aspiration, is
stripped down of its glitter and
gloss—akin to that of the typical
Mother and Child portraits drip-
ping with saccharine sweetness and
happy feeling which the artist blows
off—revealing the festering skin
underneath. Here, art has lost its im-
munity and is thrown into the hostile
open, vulnerable to the tampering
hands of the mass long considered
unappreciative towards it.
We, the viewers, are forced into an
attitude of horror, with our pre-con-
ceived notions and biases of how art
should be treated. And yet, we are si-
multaneously assaulted by the works’
thrilling urgency in the dissembling of
our expectations.
Argumentative rather than
dialogical, provocative rather than
prescriptive, Langenegger hacks at
the romanticism we have so lovingly
built around art, at once affirming and
negating its relevance.
Call 634-2411 or visit www.finaleartfile.com.

gadgets
Wirelessly yours
With an enormous 2GB internal memory, the new
Cyber-shot G1 can store 600 still images, share photos via
WiFi and display photos on its large 3.5” Xtra Fine LCD
Enjoy taking photos and have fun sharing them
too! Sony’s new six-megapixel Cyber-shot G1 camera
with built-in WiFi function allows you to do just that.
The G1 is also the ideal vacation camera with its 2GB
internal memory capacity that can store up to 7,500
VGA-quality photos or 600 six-megapixel pictures.
The new model’s Picture Gift function allows up to
4 Cyber-shot G1 units to be connected via WiFi for ex-
change and viewing of photos within a distance of 10m
to 30m, depending on the environment. Families and
barkadas would surely love this new Cyber-shot camera
that lets them share more of each other’s experiences
with just one click of the button. Share your photos right
after you take them, no need to wait to get home so you
can burn a copy for everyone. Simply align your G1 unit
via WiFi with the others and you’re ready to give and
receive photos to and from everyone in the network.
The Sony Cyber-shot G1 is available in Sony Squares, Digital
Solutions Plazas, and Sony authorized dealers nationwide.

44 | CondoCentral
 cover story

The sound of
a great investment
Rise beyond the conventional condo living experience.
Finally, a new condo project by Polar Mines Realty Ventures, Inc. shall rise
and put new rhythm and melody to city living — The Symphony Towers

The newest
landmark in Timog.
A red-carpet living
space that is both
exquisite and urbane.
The Symphony Towers
rings with the sound of
great investment. Ultimate-
ly modern and high-class, it
shall definitely be talk of the
A-first community.

FACADE OF
SYMPHONY TOWERS
The Symphony Towers is a
new high-rise condominium
comprised of two 24-storey
buildings and it is right behind
GMA and ABS-CBN networks.

46 | CondoCentral
 Adding a touch of
supreme luxury is a
themed swimming pool
at the penthouse
of each building.

This condo shall sing

a new melody and
strum a new rhythm
in the Philippine
cosmopolitan living.”
- Elizabeth M. Kalaw
COO, Polar Mines Realty
Ventures, Inc.

Sitting on a 3000-square meter

lot along Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, The
Symphony Towers offers its residents
the unmatched advantage of an ide-
ally situated and lavishly appointed
home at rates that are truly friendly.
One of the development’s
primary draws is that it is master
planned to evoke the same relaxed,
yet uppity atmosphere its location
is known for. About half of the
entire project is dedicated to lush
open spaces and amenity areas.
A central garden courtyard that is
highlighted by an impressive water
feature rests equidistant between
the two building, serving as the
project’s common activity area.
The Symphony Towers is one of a
kind with its scenic elevator which
enables you to view the rest of the
Metro as you rise above to your own
home. Its sleek architecture and
warm and cozy interiors are truly
captivating; and its top-of-the-line
amenities and facilities, impressive.
The Symphony Towers lets you expe-
rience the finest in leisure as often as you
want. It houses restaurants and cafés
right at its lobby. It also features a central
garden courtyard which can be both a
quick getaway or a lush venue for your

CondoCentral | 47
48 | CondoCentral
 This project is inspired by
a symphony of lines and
modern geometric shapes
perceived in state-of-the-art
buildings abroad.”
- Eric Asinas,
Head of international design team
Arc Haus Asia

own events. The Symphony Towers is also very near

Tomas Morato, a hotspot for fine dining, gimmicks
and other leisure activities.
Living spaces are no less exemplary. Designed to
keep up with the active lifestyle of young profes-
sionals and start-up families, the units come in styl-
ishly designed and spacious studio, one- and- two-
bedroom configurations plus a stylish one and two
bedroom loft. Optimum privacy is assured as every
level, which is serviced by two high-speed elevators,
houses a maximum of only eight units per wing.
Rounding up the glittery lifestyle at the Symphony
Towers are a number of services and measures that
guarantee the safety and convenience of the resi-
dents. A round-the-clock counter is set for security
checks and inspections. The lobby and key areas of
each building are fitted with CCTV cameras. A fire
detection and alarm system is in place while a genera-
tor is available for unforeseen circumstances. And to
make certain that the residents’ day-to-day experi-
ence go on as desired, a team of professional property
management experts are on constant standby.
The Symphony Towers likewise ensures that a
home amongst the stars need not come at an astro-
nomical price tag. Studio units start at P1.3 million
and with a variety of easy payments schemes via
in-house, bank, or Pag-IBIG financing available.
This landmark project is sure to catapult Polar Mines
Realty Ventures, Inc. as one of the leading players in the
local industry’s vertical development scene. With the
glowing reception The Symphony Towers has been get-
ting, plans are already underway for other surely superb
undertakings n the bustling areas of Quezon City.
This condo project is very accessible to EDSA and
the Kamuning MRT station. It is also just behind the
two leading media networks in the country, GMA
and ABS-CBN. So at the Symphony Towers, you will
not only get to live like a star, you may also live with
one just next door!

Live your life on the red

carpet. Own a unit at the
Symphony Towers, truly the
sound of great investment.

For inquiries, you may call:

Tel Nos.: 584-1182 to 83 Cell No.: 0928-266-9190
www.polar.com.ph

CondoCentral | 49
 preview
Infinity in the shape of a condo
Inspired by the symbol of infinity, the Exchange Regency that will soon dazzle Ortigas Center
promises luxurious living for middle income families. Step into its showroom and be amazed
with its treasure trove of wonders
Photography by Benhur Arcayan
Inspired by the symbol of infinity,
The Exchange Regency will soon rise
from the three corners of Meralco Ave.,
Exchange Road and Jade Drive and daz-
zle Ortigas Center with the promise of
luxurious living at an affordable price.
Step into its showroom and be amazed
with its treasure trove of wonders
While modernism is characterized by
efficient use of materials, sleek, angular
lines, and the Predominance of func-
tionality in space, inventive designers
have gone out of the box, so to speak,
to come up with structures that feature
sinuous details, elegant shapes and
tempered flourishes and yet are still es-
sentially modern in temperament.
More often than not, these are the
structures that make us stop pause
on our tracks and admire the dash
of ingenuity and daring. In the highly
competitive residential high rise in-
dustry, developers are in mad rush to
come up with an architectural breath-
taker. As condo dwellers and home
buyers have become more design-
savvy, a condominium in the shape of
a shoebox just wouldn’t do.
It is with the mindset of providing
their buyers with something new and
different that Nobleland Ventures
conceptualized its flagship condomin-
ium project, The Exchange Regency,
which will soon rise in Ortigas Center.
“We want something unique in the
area, considering our good location,”
begins Jonas Senia, general manager
of Nobleland. “Following the concept
of the infinity symbol, we decided
to design a building that will have
50 | CondoCentral
more views, more corners, unlike in a designers Lor Calma Design, Inc. and
conventional type of design.” Asuncion-Berenguer Inc. to come up
Nobleland tapped one of the fore- with the interiors that range from Mod
most architectural firms in the coun- Asian to Contemporary.
try, ASYA Design Partner —known “With our state of the art show-
for its efficient, sleek, environment-ap- room, we want our prospective buyers
proved design sensibility—to execute to know that The Exchange Regency
the blueprint. With the infinity symbol is an excellent project,” Senia says.
as the guiding motif of The Exchange “Aside from being strategically and
Regency, Asya Design created a stun- centrally located, it boasts of generous
ning rendition of a building whose space and features that can only be
eight sides, when viewed from the found in pricier condominiums.”
outside, seem to undulate with alter- In the showroom, one can immedi-
nating views every five floors. The eye ately get a sense of the kind of lifestyle
is drawn to the fluidity of the lines and one will enjoy as soon as he moves in
the fluency of the shifting glass panels. at The Exchange Regency. The model
“As you walk around the building, you units are cut to approximate the
will notice that the building is not static. actual layout of the units. Senia takes
In fact, it looks as though it were moving. pride in The Exchange Regency’s tall
It’s not dull and that’s what we call as ceilings and huge windows, present
architecture in motion.” says Senia. only in high-end condominium devel-
There is more to the building’s opments, proof that Nobleland isn’t
design than meets the eye. Though much of a fan of cutting corners.
it is aesthetically pleasing, the design
is also environmentally efficient as it
does not trap heat, allowing ventila-
tion and natural lighting to take place.
In the process, less energy is utilized.
People who want to take a peek
into the possibilities of The Exchange
Regency can visit its showroom located
at Julia Vargas Avenue. in Ortigas. Here,
one can find the mock relief of the
building and its model units that range
from one bedroom to three bedroom
loft space configuration. Senia admits
that they invested a considerable sum
of money in putting up a gorgeous
presentation of The Exchange Re-
gency, even tapping the talents of star
 The one-bedroom
loft of The Exchange
Regency.

CondoCentral | 51
 preview
OFWs’ reason
to come home
Cypress Towers is in line with the vision of DMCI
Homes to provide OFWs and young Filipino
families with premium quality, urban-friendly,
and fully-serviced communities
Shown in photo are (from
left) DMCI Homes marketing
director May Precilla; Maria
Catherine D. Yulo, DMCI
Homes’ international sales head
and Florante Ofrecio, DMCI
Homes’ director for sales.
52 | CondoCentral
The country’s “modern day
heroes” – the Overseas Filipino Work-
ers (OFWs) – indeed deserve credit
for fueling the Philippine economy
and paving the way for progressive
growth. With remittances reaching
US$12.8 billion in 2006, the sector is
creating brighter prospects and fulfill-
ing dreams not only for their families
but for the whole country as well.
For all their hard work and sacri-
fice, the OFWs deserve nothing less
than the fulfillment of their aspira-
tions, among them, property like a
home they can call their own. This
also embodies an upgrade in lifestyle
which they can enjoy after so many
years of working in a foreign land,
away from their loved ones for long
periods of time.
DMCI Homes addresses this need
by creating value-laden homes for the Filipinos. “We have a service channel selling, because sellers based in those
OFW and to his or her family. Among which is presently training interested locations get to understand more what
their outstanding projects, Cypress brokers from such places like Milan, their market is looking for in terms of
Towers which is in the progressive London, the United States, and Dubai. their specific housing needs. We are
city of Taguig City presents itself as a We have launched road shows to proud to say we have even persuaded
viable investment and an ideal home, entice OFWs and immigrants to help brokers there to buy DMCI Homes
in a unique resort-like environment us spread the good word about the properties themselves,” Precilla added.
strategically located near important value of DMCI Homes properties such With a combined figure of almost
districts like Bonifacio Global City, as Cypress Towers,” she said. US$1.1 billion per month in remit-
Ortigas and Makati. Another advantage of assigning tance sent to the Philippines last
DMCI Homes marketing director country managers who are based year, DMCI Homes is buoyed by the
May Precilla revealed that their com- abroad is the assurance of easier prospects of catering to the needs
pany is currently expanding its sales communication and more convenient of this growing market of OFWs and
network in several countries abroad transactions. “We are confident of foreign-based buyers.
which host a significant population of having local flavor when it comes to “Cypress Towers offers two-bed-
room units in a prime location and
idyllic surroundings, with a price range
that starts from P2 million and up.
Our target market of OFWs can easily
afford such a property, because their
income allows them to dispense $500
to $600 a month for amortization fees.
The smart buyers do realize that they
get more value from their investment
with DMCI Homes,” Precilla explained.
Maria Catherine D. Yulo, DMCI
Homes’ International Sales Head, said
that their US roadshows are currently
gaining ground, with buyers investing
because they like the project. “Our
thrust really is to provide quality
homes and first-rate communities
located within key city locations. We
attract the market of middle income
homeowners who want either to
invest or to retire soon in the Philip-
pines,” Yulo noted.
Florante Ofrecio, DMCI Homes’ Di-
rector for Sales also revealed that OFWs
and other buyers are convinced about
their projects after being reminded of
their mother company DMCI’s con-
struction heritage. “Our road shows
and training sessions explain about
DMCI Homes the brand, where we
highlight our heritage of over 50 years
of construction,” Ofrecio said.
With considerations for practical-
ity, convenience, and exposure to
global trends, OFWs now prefer con-
dominium properties within the city
instead of single detached house and
lot units in the suburbs, Precilla noted.
Cypress Towers offers an advantage
of space over similar developments.
A typical 48 sqm, two-bedroom unit
here is priced the same as a studio
or one-bedroom unit in BGC. “For
a young family, of course, the wiser
buy would be Cypress Towers. It’s
consistent with the value proposition
of DMCI Homes for young families,”
Precilla added.
Cypress Towers is another prime
development of DMCI Homes – the
country’s only triple A builder and
developer that’s known for providing
young Filipino families with premium
quality, urban-friendly, and fully-ser-
viced communities.
For more information on Cypress Tow-
ers, please call 888-3333 or visit www.
dmcihomes.com today.
CondoCentral | 53
 preview
Make way for Trevi
Backed by the solid reputation of a real estate leader, Trevi Towers in Pasong
Tamo, Makati will soon be the luxurious refuge of urban warriors who want to
be where the action is. Carlomar Arcangel Daoana writes
Interior designer Wilmer Lopez (guy seated)
together with his creative team that has come
up with the design for the sales office of Camella
Prestige and model units for Trevi Towers.
54 | CondoCentral
Although oft-repeated as a
marketing catchword to the point of
being a cliché, location still remains as
the most important currency in any
development. What would you do
with sprawling views and dime-a-doz-
en amenities when every day you have
to soldier on and squeeze through
the bottleneck of traffic just to get
to your place of work? When, just to
acquire your essential needs, you have
to brave the long trek, losing precious
time that could be devoted to more
meaningful activities?
Location is more than proximity
to places of importance and interest,
of course. It’s also the defining rule
in any property’s value, the signi-
fier with which every development
is adjudged. No wonder then that
developers compete just to have a
cut of that precious, strategically-
located real estate. Ric Pallesco, a
division head from Camella Prestige,
explains: “Most developers consider
a location for two reasons: that it is
prime, thriving and has a ripe market
waiting and wanting to purchase;
secondly, the developer sees a lot of
potential and growth in a commu-
nity and its location.”
Makati, being the Philippines’
financial capital, is hand’s down, still
the best location in terms of employ-
ment opportunities, entertainment
and lifestyle options and educational
choices. Soon to rise in Pasong Tamo
is Laureano di Trevi, or simply the
Trevi Towers, that boasts of a close
proximity to workplace, schools,
church, hospital, malls, market-
place, banking institutions, places
of entertainment and recreation
and round-the-clock accessibility to
public transportation.
Designed for
the urban warrior
“Laureano di Trevi is perfect for
young, career-driven urbanites – sin-
gle professionals who work within the
area, newly married couples, starting
family with a child and also investors,”
says Pallesco.
Tasked to come up with the tow-
ers’ design is Palafox Associates, the
premier architectural, planning and
design firm. Complementing Trevi’s
decidedly modern look is an energy-
efficient design that will make Mother
Nature proud. Utilizing ventilation
gratings, sunsheds and heat reflective
exterior closures, each tower is “pur-
posefully arranged to enhance natural
ventilation and lighting.”
Trevi features over a thousand
exclusive residence, available in
single-bedroom (beginning at 20
sq.m.) two-bedroom (from 31 sq.m.)
and combined two-bedroom (with
a 40 sq.m. floor area) configurations.
Crème dela crème are the penthouse
units that boast of an 80 sq.m and
above floor area. The units are a mark
of stylish urban living as each one of
them features a balcony opening to
an unobstructed view of either the
Makati skyline or Manila Bay sunset.
As amenities are de rigueur in any
condominium development, Trevi
too offers a handful of them, cleverly
integrated to the design of the tower.
Clubhouse, pool deck, children’s play-
ground, jogging path, al fresco areas
and landscaped gardens collectively
provide an invigorating venue from
 Using a palette of neutrals with
accents of lime green, Wilmer
evokes a refreshing, tongue-in-
cheek ambience that goes against
the traditional look of sales office.

CondoCentral | 55
56 | CondoCentral
where to destress, find respite from
the gray of the city and wall away the
clamor of urban noise.
What will essentially be a hook to
unit-buyers—apart from its prime
location and thoughtful amenities—is
the name behind Trevi: Camella
Prestige. “With its focus on intricately
designed residences, premium loca-
tion, added diversity of home choices,
and top-of-the-line quality materials,
Camella Prestige upholds the four cor-
nerstones of a true, prestige residential
community,” says Pallesco. “It will have
under its portfolio, the most luxuri-
ous options in real estate across the
Philippines – particularly dedicated to
high-rise condominiums, exquisitely
designed town homes and beautiful
homes amid lush landscaped settings.”
The interior concept was to
bring the “luxury of home,”
with its comfort and hassle-
free atmosphere, closer.
Space cadets
Providing the visual cue for the
Trevi Towers is interior designer
Wilmer Lopez who, together with his
team at W.Lopez Design, has created a
confection of a space that exudes un-
derstated elegance by applying classic
elements with modern details. The
sales office lobby of Camella Prestige
sets the tone for this whimsical but
cohesive blending of lines and shapes,
colors and textures as it approximates
“a grand, hip and classic, hotel-like
lobby.” Using a palette of neutrals
with accents of lime green, Wilmer
evokes a refreshing, tongue-in-cheek
ambience that goes against the tradi-
tional look of sales office.
As for the model unit, Wilmer
intended to make it appear “adaptive
and accessible to the different types of
young people today.” Trevi’s location
provided Wilmer the clue on the kind
of lifestyle of its potential dwellers.
“We immediately had in mind the
young professionals (who are mostly
residing in far away locations) to have
CondoCentral | 57
 Wilmer intended to make the
model unit appear “adaptive
and accessible to the different
types of young people today.”
their weekday homes near their work
place,” he says. “The concept was to
bring the ‘luxury of home,’ with its
comfort and hassle-free atmosphere,
closer. This unit also fits the newly wed
couples who are still starting out and
most probably are trying to pick the
58 | CondoCentral
necessary but really good pieces to
make their homes stylish yet homey.”
Though the units may be consid-
ered small, Wilmer says that one only
needs a dash of creativity and meticu-
lous space planning abilities to make
them look expansive and comfort-
able. “The challenge of maximizing the
interiors basically depends on space
planning and the use of materials,” he
says. “For example, we placed a glass
door screen partition to separate
living room from the bedroom. It is
multi-purpose: One can draw a sheer
silk curtain across the partition in the
evening for privacy and it can create
an open space during day time.
“A limited space should not limit
one’s creativity. It’s the design of the
interiors which breathe in life into a
home. Traditions and innovations are
a perfect fusion when carefully stud-
ied and blended; it does give a new
meaning and soul to a home. And of
course, we always take into consider-
ation comfort and function, which is
especially relevant in a small space.”
One of the easiest tricks to pull to
make a unit look elegant and spacious
is by way of color schemes that should
blend well and evoke a particular
mood. For the Trevi model unit,
Wilmer created a dramatic quality
to the space through the contrast of
lime green and neutral tones of ecru
and black.
Lighting also plays a major role in
making good interiors, he adds. What
he did for the model unit was high-
light “the interesting pieces through
indirect lighting and utilized cove
lighting on the ceiling to add depth
to the area.” Accessories, he believes,
should also reflect the personality of
the space. Wilmer used translucent
ornaments to “create an illusion of
luminosity in niches.”
If any, Wilmer simply proves that
one need not have limitless resources
to create one’s dream space. And
with it being so close to the areas one
requires, values and aspires to belong,
home is indeed the sweetest place you
can ever be.
CondoCentral | 59
 preview
Of sunsets
and serenity
at Palawan Tower
The Palawan Tower of Federal Land highlights a laidback, resort-inspired
lifestyle amid the hustle and bustle of city living
Come home to where the beauty
of the sunset simply drapes over your
window and where the harmony of
the neighborhood brings peace to
your mind.
Come home to a splendid vaca-
tion. Come home to Palawan Tower
at Bay Garden.
Federal Land’s newest addition to
its Bay Garden complex, the Palawan
Tower highlights a laidback, resort-
inspired lifestyle amid the hustle and
bustle of city living.
Retreat to your own paradise
after the exhaustion and stress of
the daily grind. Palawan Tower’s
first-class features and amenities
await to give you relaxation like no
other. Dive for a refreshing bath in
the swimming pool. Sweat the day’s
tiredness away by sprinting along
the tree-lined jogging path. Pump
some adrenalin into your blood
exercising in the well-equipped gym.
After working out, relax your body
at the spa and steam room, or just
soak in the jacuzzi.
If you feel like having a moment
of solitude and reflection, you can
take a peaceful walk at the garden
or catch a glimpse of the Manila Bay
sunset from the lounge room.
60 | CondoCentral
Built and designed to provide an
ideal residence for families, expatri-
ates and retiring balikbayans, the
Palawan Tower’s rich spaces, elegant
design, and plush ambiance give you
a refreshing escape from the urban
flurry. Choose from 145 units of flats
and bi-level units boasting of lanais
that open to the view of the sunset
and the sea. Also enjoy other first-rate
amenities such as free-form outdoor
swimming pool, children’s wading
pool, outdoor playground, 12 poolside
gazebos, game room, and multi-pur-
pose hall.
Even as Palawan Tower’s resort-
inspired lifestyle gives you a sweet
escape, its perfect address keeps the
urban way of life conveniently within
your reach. Live a few steps away from
the SM Mall of Asia, the Baywalk strip,
the US Embassy, the Malate area,
and the Makati Commercial Business
District.
Own a unit at Palawan Tower and
live a life of sunsets, serenity, and
convenience. To know about Palawan
Tower’s resort-style living, call 551-
0888 or e-mail inquiry@federalland.
com.ph.
CondoCentral | 61
 preview

Internal affairs
By providing interior lifestyle options to its buyers,
taking out all the hassles in starting a home, the
Gramercy Residences of Century Properties carries
bespoke living to the next level

the services of interior designer, cer-

tainly, as long as you have the dough.
It’s this dilemma that Century Prop-
erties, one of the top real estate firms
in the country, has cleverly addressed
when it introduced its Fully-Furnished,
Fully-Fitted concept. “By experience,
a lot of our buyers, when we deliver
the units, they have a problem of how
to furnish it,” said Amb. Jose Eduardo
Antonio, chairman of Century Proper-
ties. “They would ask, ‘Where do we
buy ref, TV, bed, sofa? Where do we
buy the tiles, this and that.’ Especially
for very busy, very mobile buyers
Interior designer Chat Fores today, they seem to have gotten rid of
the problem when we introduced this
concept. They lean towards this kind
Model units are a vital argument of unit (fully-furnished, fully-fitted)
to the marketing of a condo unit. They over the ones that are bare.”
provide a visual anchor as to how you For Gramercy Residences, one
can manage and beautify the space of the components in the colossal
that you will occupy. As interiors are lifestyle community called Century
essentially lifestlye tastes, they not City soon to sparkle on Kalayaan Ave.
only make your condo a nice place to in what is being touted as “MoMa” or
come home to but also reflect who Modern Makati, there are six interior
you are and possibly, the person you themes that can be configured to
want to become. seven space layouts, either flat or loft
Unless you are a lucky occupant of units: from a 26 sq.m. studio to a 154
a model unit, chances are you will be sq.m. three-bedroom loft.
confronted by a bare cube of a room Whipping the interior confections
once you move into your condo, its is in-demand interior designer Chat
white-washed walls begging for a coat Fores whose eponymous design studio
of paint. Troublesome is when you still specializes in “creating illusions of big
have to decide what tile to use, the spaces (by) making use of good light-
modulars that you have to install. The ing and color” and aims to provide
fantasy of the model unit soon breaks a finished project that is “timeless,
as soon as you crouch on all fours, combining aesthetic and function.”
scrubbing away the dirt. You can hire The articulate marriage of form and

62 | CondoCentral
CondoCentral | 63

function is evident in the six interior
concepts she created for Gramercy
Residences, namely: the suburban-
contemporary Lush, the African-in-
spired Savannah, the pristinely Orien-
tal Azuli, the modern and masculine
Barley, the minimalist but funky Sleek,
and the opulent Aristo.
Savannah showcases animal
prints and eye-catching leather ac-
cents—perfect for adventurous and
yet sophisticated globetrotters. Lush,
on the other hand, captures contem-
porary-suburban living in warm earth
tones and refreshing green details.
Barley is yet another high-definition
creative piece. Set in dark hues, it ex-
hibits passion, boldness and sophistica-
tion—befitting a dashing bachelor or a
strong-willed corporate woman. For the
gentle of soul, Azuli brings modern Asia
to the spotlight with its arresting blue
and white color palette, reminiscent of
age-old art of chinoiserie, a recognizable
trademark of European artistic style
highly-influenced by Chinese design.
64 | CondoCentral
Lush captures
contemporary-suburban
living in warm earth tones
and refreshing green details.
Sleek showcases minimalist furnish-
ings with reflective light fixtures and
funky artwork. Complemented by
ornate art deco style furnishing, it
creates an atmosphere reminiscent of
the creative environment of old world
Italy. Lastly, Aristo defines modern
opulence with its carved mirrors,
high-gloss finishes and classic furni-
ture. With ornate touches, it brings
back the richness of the Renaissance
period in a contemporary backdrop.
Though the interiors seem trendy
and up-to-the-minute, Fores clarifies
that through well-selected accents
and color schemes, they are meant to
withstand fluctuating tastes in design
for a long time. “It is always good to
have interiors that can last for years,”
Fores explains. “But this doesn’t mean
you can’t play around with eclectic
designs. For The Gramercy, I used
inspirations from old world, suburban
to retro and even Oriental.”
Century Properties managing direc-
tor Marco Antonio expressed his satis-
Aristo defines modern
opulence with its carved
mirrors, high-gloss finishes
and classic furniture.

CondoCentral | 65
 Set in dark hues, Barley
exhibits passion, boldness and
sophistication—befitting a
dashing bachelor or a strong-
willed corporate woman.

66 | CondoCentral
faction with the interiors conceptual-
ized by Fores. “Each style is already very
nice and well thought of,” he remarked.
“Each interior theme was conceived to
appropriate the lifestyle of an individu-
al or a couple. The designs are catered
to a wide taste spectrum which I think
Chat achieved very well.”
All interior themes are unique as
they are flexible, assures Fores. “Fami-
lies down to the successful corporate
executive will surely find a design
that will perfectly suit their styles and
preferences, and these themes are
versatile enough to accommodate
additional personal touches.”
The rate of the Fully-Furnished, Fully-
Fitted feature is promptly incorporated
to the unit cost, unlike in other devel-
opments that would require additional
charges for interior upgrades. It does
not only make moving in hassle-free
but readily gives the buyer 12 percent
savings since “there is no need to hire
additional services from a contractor,
interior designer and other suppliers.”
Buyers of The Gramercy will have
no problem maintaining their units as
these are also “Fully-Serviced,” covering
housekeeping, laundry, technical and
even concierge services. The property
management arm of Century Proper-
ties, Century Properties Management
Inc. will take charge of keeping The
Gramercy Residences well-maintained
through many, many years.
Indeed, Century Properties, by
taking bespoke living to the next
level, didn’t leave any stone unturned
in providing its clients stylish and
elegant spaces. Century City, an inte-
grated mixed use development where
Gramercy Residences is but one of its
architectural feats, masterplanned
by the renowned Jerde Partnership, is
another thing of beauty entirely.
1BR, 2BR and 3BR flats and lofts avail-
able. Ownership starts from $55,000.
Call 818-9025, 0915-7002000 or visit
www.centurycity.com.ph.
CondoCentral | 67
 survey
A rambling
tribute to my
favorite condo
unit in the world
The way worldwide climate
has gone bonkers over the past few
years, it has become a guessing game
when the country’s fairly uncompli-
cated weather cycle of Wet and Dry
commences and terminates. While
the Metro and nearby provinces now
experience regular splatter, a good
portion of the archipelago is still be-
ing seared by the sizzling super star.
Accompanying this confusion
wrought by the mischief of the two
kids El Niňo and La Niňa are some
weird conditions that authorities say
Peripheral are threatening to become staple
episodes. There’s hailstorm in Ben-
Mission guet and Libis, not to be mistaken
for a thousand tawas particles rain-
Arnold A. Altamira ing down from deodorant heaven.
There are twisters in Bulacan and
Pampanga, slightly more power-
ful than what late funnyman Rod
Navarro used to generate although
just about a tenth of what is Na-
tional Geographic Channel material.
There’s the continued rising of water
levels and the receding of shores all
over, some purportedly on account
of “sand theft” by local minor-league
construction firms.
But no matter how convoluted the
pattern gets, at least the day-to-day
forecast is more or less accurate.
When Gretchen Fulido advises you to
be ready with your raingear, you can
bet your bottom buy-in buck that
there’ll be flashflood and gridlock and
mayhem because there will be rain.
If, on the other hand, she says that
the sun is to make an extended ap-
pearance throughout the day, prepare
to perspire.
68 | CondoCentral
The legendary Amado Pineda,
though obviously a learned man, is
unfortunate this way. Without the
benefit of high-tech weather crystal
balls, he earned a dubious reputa-
tion that should only be reserved
for our politicians. Whenever he’d
declare “Rain!” the entire country
goes out and greets the announce-
ment in flimsy sandos, short pants
and abanikos. When he’d pronounce
“Shine!” everyone 16 years and below
explode in jubilation knowing that
classes will be suspended due to heavy
downpour.
I can only imagine the ease and
aplomb with which Mr. Pineda
would deliver the weather report if
he were to do it now. How confi-
dently he’ll recommend the public
what to wear the following day. How
arrogantly he’ll undermine DECS
and call classes off arbitrarily. How
condescendingly he’d admonish ev-
eryone, including Al Gore, for driving
thru, in SUVs at that.
In any case, Fulido and Pineda aside,
we all have to contend with extreme
weather conditions until the entire
bionetwork finally collapses under the
weight of our own neglect and greed.
Or until some major miracle the mag-
nitude of the ozone layer replenishing
itself occurs.
In my petty, personal ecosystem, I
cope with extreme weather condi-
tions in the cozy confines of a condo.
My wife’s family’s condo unit, that
is. We do not reside there, we just
visit the place once in a while to take
power naps on scorching days. Dur-
ing raging typhoons when practi-
cally the entire nation is plunged in
squid ink, we take solace there where
everything, save for occasional cable
TV disruptions, is status quo. It even
insulates us from the dehydrating
noise of barong-clad monkeys trying
to out-destabilize each other. Plus,
it is a very good place to read and
write, and an even better place to
play poker.
For the next year or so, though,
things will have to change. The
charming corner unit has been
rented out to a lucky young family
who will be weatherproofed and
cocooned the way no other sixty-
five square meters and four walls
quite can.
 legal
Legal options on
property relations
PART II:
ABSOLUTE COMMUNITY
Legal To most couples, property re-
lation is not an issue. The common
Options belief and practice is that what
the husband owns belongs also to
Atty. Edwin Calica his wife, and vice-versa. Under the
present Family Code, this holds
Cacayorin, Jr. true in the absence of a marriage
settlement. If you got married on
August 3, 1988 (when the Family
Code took effect), or thereafter,
your property regime is one of
absolute community.
In the system of absolute com-
munity, all the property owned
by the spouses at the time of the
celebration of the marriage or
acquired thereafter form part of
the community property except for
those excluded in the law. Excluded
70 | CondoCentral
from the community property are:
(a) property acquired during the
marriage by gratuitous title by either
spouse, and the fruits as well as the
income thereof, if any, unless it is
expressly provided by the donor, tes-
tator or grantor that they shall form
part of the community property (b)
property for personal and exclusive
use of either spouse, however, jewelry
shall form part of the community
property; and (c) property acquired
before the marriage by either spouse
who has legitimate descendants by
a former marriage, and the fruits as
well as the income, if any, of such
property.
Knowing what one spouse sepa-
rately owns from that which belongs
to the community property becomes
more relevant in a troubled marriage.
If you discover that your spouse had
bought his or her lover a condomini-
um unit and titled it under his or her
lover’s name; that property, regardless
in whose name it is titled, is still part
of your community property for the
simple reason that it was acquired
during your marriage. This finds sup-
port in Article 93 of the Family Code,
which provides: “Property acquired
during the marriage is presumed to
belong to the community, unless
it is proved that it is one of those
excluded.”
However, if it were the lover who
had bought the condominium unit
and given it to your spouse, that prop-
erty would form part of your spouse’s
separate property since he or she
acquired it by gratuitous title. Gratu-
itous title pertains to those property
received without cost or obligation to
the recipient.
CondoCentral | 71
 condo memo
Strange bedfellows:
How to know
when you’re
ready to move
in together
Monique Francisco sets the rules
on how to cohabitate harmonious
with a roommate amid the glorious
mess that is your condo
Sharing a condo with someone
is like getting married. It is a commit-
ment to love, honor and respect your
(condo) partner.
After living in a condo for about
five years, this is the only epiphany I
have (aside from some random rules
and factoids I’ve written here). I’ve
lived with one roommate for all my
condo-living life. Starting out together
was a nightmare.
See, we have different notions of
‘cleaning up’. I like to wash the dishes
after meals, throw away take-out bags
and leftovers, put away the laundry
right away. She likes to make cleaning
a big, whole-day affair. She can spend
half a day cleaning the bathroom and
the other half the rest of the condo.
Then after her power cleaning session,
she gets sick from sheer exhaustion.
So no wonder she doesn’t like to clean
up. Another factor was that we would
always be too tired to clean after
work.
At the beginning, I was cleaning up
after her. A Coke can here, a McDon-
ald’s bag there. Then I got fed up and
decided that she could live in her own
filth. So one day, there was a Tupper-
ware of unfinished takeout on the
72 | CondoCentral
table. I left it for her to throw away.
A month later, it was still there on
the table, perhaps already a thriving
civilization of micro-organisms with
pyramid-like structures and making
sacrifices to micro-organism gods and
goddesses. For health reasons, I gave
in and threw it away.
So, that’s my rule #1: Question the property unless specified otherwise.
food. How long has this been there? Just make sure you refer to rule #1.
If that box of fries has been there
for more than a month, should we
start charging it rent?
Rule #2 would be: Never second-
guess clothes on the floor.
She never puts clothes away in the
closet, so her bed is literally a heap of
clothes. There’s just enough space on
the bed for her to flop onto when she
sleeps. There’s a trail of laundry drop-
pings leading up to her bed, like a trail
of blood to a crime scene. (Are these
undies clean? Or dirty? Hmm… better
leave it where it is.)
Rule #3: Finders are not keepers.
Just like clothes, barya is also scat-
tered everywhere. We have a friend
who loves to come over and collect
all the loose change on the floor.
One time, she was able to collect
almost P200 in one-peso coins. She
was thrilled until we told her that she
couldn’t keep them.
Rule #4: Take out is great. Free
food is better.
Roommate food is communal
Rule #5: Pay your bills.
Groping around in the dark is not
fun. You might end up going to work
wearing all orange or something.
We never got to that point, but we
had our fair share of disconnection
notices. It’s not pretty to get one
consecutively for four months.
Rule #6: Do your laundry regularly.
It’s also no fun waking up one day
realizing that you have no more clean
underwear. (Thankfully, I found one
mixed up in the heap of clothes on
my roomie’s bed. It took a good ten
minutes of rooting around to find that
diamond in the haystack.)
Rule #7: Be a good roommate.
Now, I’m not the best roommate
myself. I come in and out at all hours
of the night. I’ll disappear suddenly for
days, only to be discovered that I had
gone to some far-flung province.
I never pay the rent, I mean physi-
cally going to the admin and handing
over the money. I keep forgetting to
pay the bills, thus the embarrassing
disconnection notices.
I never do the laundry (thus the
waking up without underwear bit). I
rarely take out the trash. I’m whiny
and moody on the rare occasions that
I am home.
I’m a bad roommate.
Rule #8: Make sure you can stand
your roommate.
It’s a good thing my roomie is my
sister. I grew up having to stand her
(and vice versa!).
Living together all our lives was
good training for sharing a condo.
We were used to each other’s quirks
before we moved in together.
So remember, choose your room-
mate wisely. If you can stand all their
quirks, then you’ll be just fine. If not,
at least get a place with separate
rooms.
MOVE IN WITH US!

YES!
SUBSCRIPTION FORM
I want to subscribe to
PHILIPPINES

Beauty and Bliss in High Living

and save 40% or P720

Annual subscription:
Metro Manila P1,080 Province P1,800

Details: Give a gift subscription to:

Name _______________________________________________________ Name ________________________________________________________
Address _____________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________
Contact numbers ______________________________________________ Contact numbers ______________________________________________
Start of subscription ___________________________________________
E-mail _______________________________________________________
Signature ____________________________________________________ Payment details: Cash Check

Payable to Condo.Com.Ph, Inc.

2nd floor P&L Building, Legazpi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City 1229, Philippines

To subscribe call Bong Cayanan at (632) 812-3333

 *guide
condo

www.condo.com.ph

For rent
Disclaimer: All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prospective purchasers and renters should verify the information to their satisfaction.
For inquiries and viewing requests:
CALL NOW (632) 812-3333

Ortigas Center/Mandaluyong/Greenhills, San Juan

Palmdale Heights One-bedroom Fully furnished 40 sq.m. P16,000/month
Skyway Twin Tower Studio Fully furnished 25 sq.m. P15,000/month
Emerald Mansion Three-bedroom Fully furnished 157 sq.m. One parking slot P60,000/month
Swire Elan Suites Studio Unfurnished 35.02 sq.m. P35,000/month
Mayfield Park Residences Two-bedroom Unfurnished 49 sq.m. P20,000/month
GA Tower Two-bedroom Unfurnished 39 sq.m. P20,000/month
Mayfield Park Residences         Two-bedroom Fully furnished  48 sq.m. One parking slot           P30,000/month
GA Tower        Two-bedroom Fully furnished  73 sq.m. Two parking slots         P45,000/month
Parc Royale      Two-bedroom Semi-furnished  170 sq.m. One parking slot           P40,000/month
Swire Elan Suites          Studio Unfurnished      35 sq.m.           P35,000/month

Rockwell, Makati City

Rizal Tower Three-bedroom Unfurnished 283 sq.m. Two parking slots P270,000/month
Rizal Tower Three-bedroom Fully furnished 283 sq.m. Two parking slots P170,000/month
Amorsolo West Two-bedroom Fully furnished 125 sq.m. Two parking slots P100,000/month
Manansala Studio Fully furnished 48 sq.m. One parking slot P35,000/month
Hidalgo Place Two-bedroom Unfurnished 128 sq.m. Two parking slots P85,000/month
Manansala One-bedroom Fully furnished 71 sq.m. One parking slot P60,000/month
Rizal Tower Three-bedroom Unfurnished 336 sq.m. One parking slot P200,000/month
Hidalgo Place   Studio Fully furnished  52 sq.m. One parking slot           P40,000/month

78 | CondoCentral
 Legaspi Village, Makati City
One Legazpi Park Studio Semi-furnished 41 sq.m. One parking slot P40,000/month
One Legazpi Park One-bedroom Fully furnished 63 sq.m. One parking slot P60,000/month
One Legazpi Park One-bedroom Fully furnished 60.25 sq.m. One parking slot P70,000/month
Island Tower One-bedroom Fully furnished 120 sq.m. One parking slot P55,000/month
LPL Tower Three-bedroom Fully furnished 134 sq.m. One parking slot P45,000/month
Asian Mansion II One-bedroom Fully furnished 40 sq.m One parking slot P28,000/month
Biltmore Two-bedroom Fully furnished 131 sq.m. One parking slot P80,000/month
Biltmore Three-bedroom Fully furnished 252 sq.m. One parking slot P140,000/month
Colonade Three-bedroom Fully furnished 223 sq.m. One parking slot P85,000/month
Greenbelt Radissons Studio Unfurnished 34.3 sq.m. P35,000/month
Greenbelt Radissons Studio Unfurnished 40.60 sq.m. P25,000/month
Greenbelt Radissons Studio Semi-furnished 34.30 sq.m. P25,000/month
Greenbelt Radissons Studio Fully furnished 34.30 sq.m. P30,000/month
Greenbelt Radissons Studio Fully furnished 34.30 sq.m. One parking slot P35,000/month
Greenbelt Parkplace Studio Unfurnished 36.50 sq.m. P25,000/month
Greenbelt Parkplace One-bedroom Fully furnished 48 sq.m. One parking slot P45,000/month
Greenbelt Parkplace Studio Fully furnished 36 sq.m. P35,000/month
Perla Mansion One-bedroom Fully furnished 51 sq.m. P25,000/month
Perla Mansion One-bedroom Fully furnished 43 sq.m. P28,000/month
Century Plaza Two-bedroom Fully furnished 140 sq.m. One parking slot P60,000/month
Century Plaza Two-bedroom Fully furnished 147 sq.m. One parking slot P50,000/month
Frabella Two-bedroom Fully furnished 150 sq.m. One parking slot P90,000/month
Frabella Two-bedroom Fully furnished 300 sq.m. One parking slot P140,000/month
(penthouse)
The Shang Grand Tower One-bedroom Fully furnished 80 sq.m. One parking slot P75,000/month
Greenbelt Parkplace     One-bedroom  Fullyfurnished   36.5 sq.m. P55,000/month

Bonifacio Global City

Bonifacio Ridge Three-bedroom Fully furnished 113 sq.m. One parking slot P80,000/month
Bonifacio Ridge Two-bedroom Fully furnished 113 sq.m. One parking slot P90,000/month
One McKinley Two-bedroom Fully furnished 196 sq.m. One parking slot P100,000/month
Penhurst Parkplace Three-bedroom Fully furnished 118 sq.m. One parking slot P70,000/month
Forbeswood Heights    One-bedroom Fully furnished 49 sq.m.           P32,000/month

Manila/ Pasay City

Vellagio Tower Studio Unfurnished 28.50 sq.m. P15,000/month
Providence Tower Studio Fully furnished 25 sq.m. P12,500/month
Antel Seaview One-bedroom Fully furnished 55 sq.m. One parking slot P25,000/month
Burgundy Transpacific Place One-bedroom Unfurnished 40.08 sq.m. P16,750/month
Golden Empire 1322    Four-bedroom  Fully furnished 250 sq.m. Three parking slots       P180,000/month          
Cityland Vito Cruz Tower         One-bedroom Unfurnished      50 sq.m.           P15,000/month
Le Mirage De Malate One-bedroom Unfurnished 34 sq.m. P15,000/month
Le Mirage De Malate One-bedroom Semi-furnished 44 sq.m. P16,000/month
Le Mirage De Malate One-bedroom Fully Furnished 44 sq.m. P25,000/month
Harrison Mansion One-bedroom Fully furnished 30 sq.m. P13,000/month
Bay Gardens-Anchor One-bedroom Unfurnished 54 sq.m. One parking slot P25,000/month

CondoCentral | 79
 Quezon City
Olympic Heights           Four-bedroom Fully furnished  154 sq.m. Two parking slots         P90,000/month
Greenhills Garden Square         Two-bedroom Unfurnished      57.5 sq.m. P18,000/month
Francesca         Two-bedroom Fully furnished  43 sq.m. P23,000/month

Alabang/ Parañaque
Vivant Flats      Two-bedroom Unfurnished      88 sq.m. One parking slot           P90,000/month
Chateu Elyseé   Two-bedroom Fully furnished  53 sq.m. P28,000/month

Chino Roces/ Sen. Gil Puyat/ Dela Rosa, Makati City

Oriental Garden One-bedroom Unfurnished 45 sq.m. P20,000/month
Oriental Garden Studio Unfurnished 33 sq.m. P15,000/month
Makati Executive Tower I One-bedroom Semi-furnished 27 sq.m. P12,500/month
Makati Executive Tower I One-bedroom Unfurnished 36 sq.m. P12,500/month
West of Ayala Studio Fully furnished 36 sq.m. P20,000/month
The Columns– Ayala One-bedroom Semi-furnished 49 sq.m. One parking slot P45,000/month
The Columns - Ayala    Studio Unfurnished      32 sq.m. P25,000/month
The Columns - Ayala    Studio Fully furnished  30 sq.m. P25,000/month
The Columns - Ayala    Two-bedroom Unfurnished      67 sq.m. One parking slot           P62,000/month
Cityland Pasong Tamo  Three-bedroom Fully furnished  116.9 sq.m. P40,000/month

SalcedoVillage, Makati City

Salcedo Park Three-bedroom Fully furnished 179 sq.m One parking slot P75,000/month
Easton Place Two-bedroom Fully furnished 125 sq.m. One parking slot P70,000/month
Easton Place Three-bedroom Fully furnished 189 sq.m. One parking slot P90,000/month
Easton Place Three-bedroom Fully furnished 124 sq.m. One parking slot P75,000/month
Parklane Two-bedroom Fully furnished 136.55 sq.m. One parking slot P38,000/month
Paseo Parkview Studio Fully furnished 30 sq.m. P25,000/month
LPL Center Two-bedroom Fully furnished 148 sq.m. One parking slot P45,000/month
Salcedo Park Three-bedroom Unfurnished 180 sq.m. One parking slot P65,000/month
Grand Tower Two-bedroom Fully furnished 140 sq.m. One parking slot P55,000/month
Grand Tower Two-bedroom Fully furnished 155 sq.m. One parking slot P60,000/month
Three Salcedo Three-bedroom Semi-furnished 183.99 sq.m. One parking slot P70,000/month
Alpha Salcedo Three-bedroom Fully furnished 150 sq.m. One parking slot P75,000/month
Antel Platinum Tower One-bedroom Fully furnished 40.52 sq.m. One parking slot P30,000/month
Manhattan Square Studio Fully furnished 41.66 sq.m. P22,000/month
Manhatttan Sqaure One-bedroom Fully furnished 76 sq.m. One parking slot P40,000/month
Two Lafayette Two-bedroom Semi-furnished 102 sq.m. One parking slot P45,000/month
Two Lafayette Three-bedroom Fully furnished 171 sq.m. One parking slot P85,000/month
Plaza Royale Two-bedroom Fully furnished 155 sq.m. One parking slot P55,000/month
Ponte Salcedo Three-bedroom Fully furnished 285 sq.m. One parking slot P100,000/month
(penthouse)
Four Seasons Two-bedroom Fully furnished 170 sq.m. One parking slot P140,000/month
Tifanny Place Two-bedroom Fully furnished 160 sq.m. One parking slot P85,000/month
Le Metropole Five-bedroom Unfurnished 350 sq.m. One parking slot P120,000/month
(penthouse, bi-level)
Le Metropole Three-bedroom Fully furnished 179 sq.m. One parking slot P70,000/month
Le Domaine      Two-bedroom Semi-furnished  117 sq.m. Two parking slots         P50,000/month

80 | CondoCentral
 Real estate brokers
are not created equal...

Condo.Com.Ph, Inc. associates

have the better view of local
property market and client needs.

www.condo.com.ph
T h e Co n d o m i n i u m S p e c i a l i s t
B U Y S E L L R E N T

We are the condo.

Condo.Com.Ph, Inc. global headquarters
2 / F P & L B l d g . , L e g a z pi S t . , L e g a s pi V i l l a g e , M a k a t i C i t y
Te l e p h o n e : (6 3 2) 81 2 -3 3 3 3 Fa x : (6 3 2) 8 9 3 - 81 3 4 M o b i l e : + 6 3 91 9 8 5 0 4 4 6 8
E-mail: admin@condo.com.ph
 *guide
condo

www.condo.com.ph

For sale
Disclaimer: All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prospective purchasers and renters should verify the information to their satisfaction.
For inquiries and viewing requests:
CALL NOW (632) 812-3333

Quezon City
Smile Citihomes Studio Unfurnished 30 sq.m. P600,000
North Ridge Mansion Studio Unfurnished 25 sq.m. P2,000,000
New York Mansion Studio Unfurnished 44 sq.m. P1,400,000
Tropical Mandarin Tower Studio Unfurnished 36.5 sq.m. One parking slot P2,800,000
North Ridge Mansion Studio Semi-furnished 25 sq.m. P2,100,000
Tropical Mandarin Tower Studio Unfurnished 36.5 sq.m. One parking slot P2,850,000
One Orchard Road Studio Semi-furnished  36.5 sq.m. P2,300,000
Regalia Park Towers    Two-bedroom Semi-furnished  70 sq.m. One parking slot           P3,800,000     
Francesca         Two-bedroom Fully Furnished 43 sq.m. One parking slot           P2,200,000  

Bonifacio Global City

Penhurst Parkplace Three-bedroom Fully furnished 110 sq.m. One parking slot P8,500,000
Pacific Plaza Towers Three-bedroom Unfurnished 298 sq.m. Two parking slots P23,000,000

Legaspi Village, Makati

Prince Plaza I Studio Fully furnished 26.74 sq.m. P2,300,000
Tropical Palm Tower Two-bedroom Unfurnished 140 sq.m. One parking slot P7,500,000
Sunrise Two-bedroom Unfurnished 140 sq.m. One parking slot P7,600,000
Greenbelt Parkplace     One-bedroom Fully furnished  36.5 sq.m. P5,500,000

82 | CondoCentral
 Rockwell, Makati City
Hidalgo Place Three-bedroom Fully furnished 198 sq.m. Two parking slots P20,000,000
Hidalgo Place Two-bedroom Unfurnished 128 sq.m. Two parking slots P12,500,000
Manansala Two-bedroom Unfurnished 102 sq.m. One parking slot P10,300,000
Manansala Two-bedroom Unfurnished 116 sq.m. One parking slot P11,700,000
Luna Garden Four-bedroom Unfurnished 320 sq.m. Two parking slots P45,000,000
(penthouse, bi-level)
Rizal Tower Four-bedroom Unfurnished 270 sq.m. Two parking slots P35,000,000
(penthouse, flat)
Amorsolo East Three-bedroom Unfurnished 170 sq.m. Two parking slots P19,000,000

Chino Roces/ Sen. Gil Puyat/ Dela Rosa, Makati City

Cityland Pasong Tamo One-bedroom Unfurnished 36 sq.m. P1,900,000
Cityland Pasong Tamo Two-bedroom Unfurnished 66.99 sq.m. P3,000,000
Cityland Pasong Tamo Two-bedroom Unfurnished 66.99 sq.m. P3,000,000
Palm Tower Studio Unfurnished 25 sq.m. P1,300,000
Kingswood Three-bedroom Fully furnished 77 sq.m. One parking slot P4,500,000
Danarra Three-bedroom Semi-furnished 148 sq.m. One pakring slot P3,500,000
Palm Tower One-bedroom Fully furnished 36.36 sq.m. P2,500,000
Oriental Garden Two-bedroom Fully furnished 113 sq.m. One parking slot P12,000,000
Makati Executive Tower I One-bedroom Unfurnished 27 sq.m. One parking slot P2,500,000
Makati Executive Tower I One-bedroom Unfurnished 28 sq.m. One parking slot P2,500,000
Oriental Garden Makati            Three-bedroom Fully furnished  180 sq.m. One parking slot           P12,000,000
Oriental Garden Makati            Studio Unfurnished      37 sq.m. P3,200,000
Palm Tower      Three-bedroom Unfurnished      108 sq.m          P4,700,000
Makati Executive Tower I One-bedroom  Unfurnished      28.7 sq.m. P1,500,000
Cityland 9         Studio Unfurnished      22 sq.m. P700,000

Bel-Air, Makati City

Oxford Suites Studio Unfurnished 36 sq.m. P2,500,000
Ferros Bel- Air Tower One-bedroom Unfurnished      44.24 sq.m. P1,700,000
Makati Prime City Four-bedroom Unfurnished 110 sq.m. Two parking slots P6,900,000
Makati Palace Studio Unfurnished 32.87 sq.m. P1,900,000

Manila/ Pasay City

Pacific Regency One-bedroom Unfurnished 48.19 sq.m. P2,000,000
Cityland One-bedroom Unfurnished 50 sq.m. One parking slot P2,850,000
Vito Cruz Tower
Somerset Mansion Two-bedroom Semi-furnished 87 sq.m. One parking slot P4,200,000
Alpha Grandview One-bedroom Semi-furnished 52.80 sq.m. One parking slot P3,500,000
Balagtas Royal Mansion One-bedroom Unfurnished 28 sq.m. One parking slot P1,500,000
Vellagio Tower Studio Unfurnished 30 sq.m. P2,085,000
Malate Adriatico Two-bedroom Unfurnished      54.44 sq.m. One parking slot           P4,500,000     
Grand Residences
Park Avenue Mansion  Studio Unfurnished 24 sq.m. P950,000
Legaspi Tower 300      Two-bedroom Semi-furnished 183 sq.m. P8,500,000
Alpha Grandview          Studio Semi-furnished  28.4 sq.m. P2,000,000   

CondoCentral | 83
 Alabang/ Sucat, Parañaque
Mondrian Residences Studio Unfurnished 46.78 sq.m. One parking slot P2,700,000
Vierra at Britanny Bay One-bedroom Unfurnished 39 sq.m. P2,900,000
Almanza Metropolis Two-bedroom Semi-furnished 38.5 sq.m. One parking slot P2,500,000

Ortigas Center/ Mandaluyong City/ Greenhills, San Juan

Megaplaza Three-bedroom Unfurnished 93.84 sq.m. P3,800,000
Cityland Pioneer One-bedroom Fully furnished 34 sq.m P1,500,000
Palmdale Heights Studio Unfurnished 40 sq.m. P1,400,000
Governor’s Place Two-bedroom Unfurnished 88 sq.m. One parking slot P4,500,000
Valencia Hills Three-bedroom Fully furnished 122 sq.m. P8,500,000
California Garden Square Two-bedroom Unfurnished 57 sq.m. P2,800,000
California Garden Square Three-bedroom Fully furnished 80 sq.m. P3,900,000
California Garden Square Two-bedroom Unfurnished 57.50 sq.m. P2,200,000
California Garden Square Two-bedroom Unfurnished 57.50 sq.m., One parking slot P2,350,000
California Garden Square Two-bedroom Unfurnished 57.50 sq.m. One parking slot P2,400,000
California Garden Square Two-bedroom Unfurnished 57.5 sq.m. One parking slot P2,500,000
California Garden Square Two-bedroom Unfurnished 57.5 sq.m. One parking slot P2,300,000
Casa Madrid Three-bedroom Unfurnished 120 sq.m. One parking slot P5,200,000
Parc Royale      Four-bedroom Semi-furnished  348 sq.m. Two parking slots         P16,000,000
Parc Royale      Two-bedroom Semi-furnished  170 sq.m. One parking slot           P5,500,000
Pioneer Highlands One-bedroom Unfurnished      53 sq.m. One parking slot           P2,800,000
California Garden Square          Two-bedroom Unfurnished 57.5 sq.m. P2,300,000
Grand Emerald Tower  Studio Unfurnished      37 sq.m. P1,250,000
Cortijos Greenhills Three-bedroom Unfurnished      125 sq.m. One parking slot           P4,800,000

Condominium   

84 | CondoCentral
Leave it to the experts.

Let real estate professionals

manage your condominium unit.
Lease it out or sell it, your property
will be in good hands.
Our best offer: Let us keep your keys
and we will deliver results
in no time at all!

We are the condo.

www.condo.com.ph
T h e Co n d o m i n i u m S p e c i a l i s t
B U Y S E L L R E N T

For business arrangement, call us now!

Condo.Com.Ph, Inc. global headquarters
2 / F P & L B l d g . , L e g a z pi S t . , L e g a s pi V i l l a g e , M a k a t i C i t y
Te l e p h o n e : (6 3 2) 81 2 -3 3 3 3 Fa x : (6 3 2) 8 9 3 - 81 3 4 M o b i l e : + 6 3 91 9 8 5 0 4 4 6 8
E-mail: admin@condo.com.ph
 Best value
for your money
EASTON PLACE
Salcedo Village, Makati City
2BR 123 sq.m. 1 parking slot P7.9M
2BR 126 sq.m. 1 parking slot P8.1M
2BR 125 sq.m. 1 parking slot P8.1M
2BR 124 sq.m. 1 parking slot P8.0M
3BR 181 sq.m. 1 parking slot P11.7M

central
PONTE SALCEDO

market
Salcedo Village, Makati City
3BR 285 sq.m. 1 parking slot P11.4M
3BR 285 sq.m. 1 parking slot P12.8M

Call or text Bong Lozada

at +639192126024

Makati FOR SALE

Eastwood Excelsior

top broker’s
2BR
73 sq.m.

picks
12/F
utility/ maid’s room, 2 T&Bs
1 parking slot
PhP 5.5 M (negotiable)
Parc Royale
Condominium
1BR
68 sq.m.
ONE LEGAZPI PARK 10/F
Legaspi Village, Makati City FF
1 parking slot
2BR 97.7 sq.m. 1 parking slot P11.0M PhP 3.9 M (negotiable)
2BR 97 sq.m. 1 parking slot P10.5M
1BR 69.7 sq.m. 1 parking slot P7.5M 10-hectare lot, ideal
2BR FF 97.7 sq.m. 1 parking slot P90,000/mo. for pocket subdivision
San Isidro (formerly Montalban),
Rizal Fronting Avilon Zoo
SOUTH OF MARKET
Bonifacio Global City
1BR FF 38 sq.m. 1 parking slot P4.5M FOR LEASE
GA Tower
MANHATTAN SQUARE 1BR loft
Salcedo Village, Makati City 35 sq.m.
1BR 79 sq.m. 1 parking slot P40,000/mo. 14/F
SF: 2 A/Cs, ref, microwave,
range with tank
RIZAL TOWER 25k/month
Rockwell Center, Makati City
Penthouse SF 336 sq.m. 3 parking slots P230,000/mo. Please call or text
Arnold A. Altamira
Call or text Grace Geverola at +639278369426 at +639177930862

To advertise Tel: (632)812-3333

To advertise Mobile:
Tel: (632)812-3333 +639272760360
Mobile: +639272760360E-mail: advertising@condocentral.com.ph
E-mail: advertising@condocentral.com.ph
 Hampton Gardens
(Ready for occupancy)
Live in resort condo in the
Metropolis for only 10%
Maybunga, Pasig City (near Ortigas Center)
downpayment to move in
STD-2BR 19.25 sq.m.-39 sq.m. P810,000-P1.9M
Reservation fee: P20,000

One Sapphire
(Ready for occupancy)
Mandaluyong City
(walking distance from City Hall of Mandaluyong)
1BR-3BR 33.5 sq.m.-76 sq.m. P1.19M-P3.6
Reservation Fee: P10,000

P’oint Isabelle (BTO-1 year)

Tagaytay City
42 sq.m.-102.5 sq.m. P2.3-P3.5M
Reservation fee: P50,000
Located in Ortigas, Pasig,
Office for lease across Fort Bonifacio,
Quezon Avenue, Quezon City Mandaluyong and
400 sq.m. G/F P300/sq.m.
450 sqm 2/F P300/sq.m.
Quezon City
Call or text JP Pello
at +639154445655 or +639225488110 Call or text Faye Asuncion at +639278585825
E-mail: jgpello@gmail.com

The Modern elements to

achieve timeless designs
Oriental
Place
Newest project
of Metrobank in Antel Spa Residences
Makati launched! Makati Avenue, Makati City
STD 25.35 sq.m. P2.2M-P2.3M
Offers no 1BR 29.85 sqm. P2.6M- P2.7M
downpayment 2BR flat 46.18 sq.m.-53.68 sq.m. P4.7M-P4.9M
or P9,000/mo. 2BR bi-level 52.20 sq.m.-59.70 sq.m. P4.8M-P5.5M
zero interest 3BR bi-level 90.16 sq.m.-91.32 sqm. P8.3M-P8.5M

The Metropolitan Tower

No lumpsum Estrella and Amapola Streets across Rockwell Drive, Makati City
payment STD flat 37 sq.m.- 43 sq.m. P2.9M-P3.6M
every year 1BR flat 51 sq.m.- 53 sq.m. P3.9M -P4.4M
2BR flat 76 sq.m.- P5.9M-P6.2M

Call now!
2BR loft 102 sq.m.-134 sq.m. P8.5M-P11.2M
3BR loft 120 sq.m.- 121 sq.m. P8.8M-P9M

Carlo Gemota +639154553608 Call or text Norma Robles at +639178557174

To advertise Tel: (632)812-3333 Mobile: +639272760360 E-mail: advertising@condocentral.com.ph

 Condos by
Federal Land, Inc. BANK ACQUIRED ASSETS
Affordable payment schemes available
MANILA
Pearl of the Orient (R) 39.38 sq.m P3.24M
Imperial Sky Garden (C) 28.40 sq.m. to 52.97 sq.m. P1.71M-P5.3M
MAKATI
Makati Cinema Square (R) 154 sq.m. P6.2M
LPL Manor (R) 150 sq.m. P5.3M
Alpha Salcedo (R) 127.39 sq.m. P7.71M
Kingswood (R) 154 sq.m. P6.17M
Skyland (R) 187 sq.m. P8.25M
MANDALUYONG
Pioneer Highland (R) 122.48 sq.m. P4.6M
Oriental Garden Makati Summit One (C) 150.02 sq.m. P4.25M
Chino Roces Ave., Makati City
STD 33 sq.m. P2.1M PARAÑAQUE
1BR 45 sq.m. P 2.7M Bayview International Tower (R) 135 sq.m. P3.8M
Chateau de Baie (R) 38 sq.m.-145sqm P1.72M-P5.6M
The Oriental Place
Makati City PASAY
1BR 28.45 sq.m. P1.7M IPI Buendia Tower (R) 44 sq.m.-61 sq.m. P1.75-P2.6M
Bay Gardens – Mactan Tower PASIG
Crisanta Tower (R) 111.50 sq.m. P4.8M
Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City
1BR 42 sq.m. P3.4M Reinaissance 3000 (R) 390 sq.m. P14.82M
2BR 92sq.m. P7.3M
3BR 108 sq.m. P8.2M PENTHOUSE UNITS
Le Triomphe (R) 420.98 sq.m. P12.5M
Marquinton Residences Imperial Sky Garden (C) 244.97 sq.m. P14.7M
Washington Tower (R) 602sqm 29.5M
Marikina City
1BR 33 sq.m. P1.5M *R - residential C - commercial
2BR 53.50 sq.m. P2.7M
Call or text Ariel S. Raymundo at
Call or text Rose Jane C. Dela Rosa +639228632217 or +639216889398
at +639273968660 or e-mail at ariel@condo.com.ph

The ultimate
in city living!
ON TOP OF
THE TOWN!
The Eton Residences
Legazpi St., Legaspi Village, Makati City
Forbeswood Heights 1BR 60 sq.m. P7M-P7.6M
Bonifacio Global City 2BR 90 sq.m.-121 sq.m. P9.3M-P11.9M
3BR 154 sq.m.-174 sq.m. P15M-P18.5M
One-bedroom
36.5 sq.m. The Columns Legazpi Village
Fully furnished Amorsolo corner Pasay Road, Legaspi Village, Makati City
STD regular 30 sq.m.-33 sq.m. P2.49M-P4.26M
One parking slot STD-Jr. 1BR 38 sq.m-39 sq.m. P3.1M-P4.6M
Asking price (sale): P6,000,000 1BR 47 sq.m. P4.3M -P5.23M
Asking price (lease): P35,000 per month 2BR 67 sq.m.-77 sq.m. P6.71M -P9.85M
2BR loft 82 sq.m. P8.71M-P8.76M
Three-bedroom
107 sq.m. Greenbelt Chancellor
Rada St. , Legaspi Village, Makati City
Semifurnished STD 36 sq.m.-46 sq.m. P3.06M-P4.73M
One parking slot 1BR 38 sq.m.-55.7 sq.m. P3.91-P5.72M
Asking price (sale): P12,500,000 2BR 72 sq.m.-83.5 sq.m. P7.42M-P8.68M
Asking price (lease): P80,000 per month 3BR 126.55 sq.m. P13.28M-P13.41M
Call or text Renne Isidro
Call or text Rowena dela Cruz Call or text Joy S. Sta. Teresa
at +639153728220 or 840-1332
at +639173650220 at +639174867883

To advertise Tel: (632)812-3333 Mobile: +639272760360 E-mail: advertising@condocentral.com.ph

Airport Condos MANDALUYONG
CONDOS
The Amvel Mansions
Parañaque City
1BR 44.8 sq.m. P2.4M
2BR 65.7 sq.m. P3.5M
3BR 92.8 sq.m. P5M
One Sapphire
1BR 42.67 sq.m. P1.6M
2BR 72.32 sq.m. P3.0M
Tribeca 3BR 76.53 sq.m. P3.74M
Parañaque City
STD 25 sq.m. P1.4M Lancaster The Atrium
1BR 37.1 sq.m. P2M 1BR 47.65 sq.m. P4M
2BR 46.8 sq.m. P2.5M 2BR loft 75.67 sq.m. P6.43M
3BR loft 106 sq.m. P9M
Centropolis
Parañaque City Lee Gardens
1BR 25.92 sq.m. P1.2M Studio 35.70 sq.m. P2.6M
2BR 52.11 sq.m. P2.5 1BR 55.50 sq.m. P4M
2BR 101.20 sq.m. P7.33M
3BR 127.70 sq.m. P9.60M
Call or text Marivic Espanola Call or text Nonoy Tumonong
at +639202008259 at +639062607098

Sycamore VIBRANT NEIGHBORHOOD

Tower
Mandaluyong City
Finally, some space to breathe…
…at the center of it all.

R E N T
2BR 62.58 sq.m. P3.2M
Amenities and facilities
Kitchen
Gym
Clubhouse
Multi-purpose lounge Easton Place
Multi-purpose hall 2BR UF 126 sq.m. P50,000/month
Audio/video room 2BR FF 126 sq.m. P60,000/month
Business center
Playground
Swimming pool LPL Center
Basketball court
Grand entrance with security 2BR FF 116 sq.m. P45,000/month
Perimeter fence
Asian garden Classica Tower
Shower room
2BR FF 96 sq.m. P70,000/month
Affordable payment
schemes available One Lafayette
3BR FF 160 sq.m. P90,000/month
For inquiries and
viewing requests,
please call or text For inquiries and viewing requests,
Darwin Belicena please call Paner at (632) 840-1332

To advertise Tel: (632)812-3333 Mobile: +639272760360 E-mail: advertising@condocentral.com.ph

 This is the ONE Come home to
the best address
in Metro Manila
and enjoy the best
life has to offer!

LIVE IT UP!
AS LOW
AS
P2.2M

One Rockwell
Rockwell Drive corner Estrella Drive, Makati City
STD flat 27 sq.m.- 28 sq.m. P3M
One-bedroom flat 53 sq.m.- 68 sq.m. 1 parking slot P6.1M
Two-bedroom flat 80 sq.m. 1 parking slot P8.5M
Three-bedroom flat 120 sq.m. 1 parking slot P13M
One-bedroom loft 65 sq.m.-71 sq.m. 1 parking slot P7.2M
Two-bedroom loft 88 sq.m. P11.2M
Two-bedroom Z-loft 95 sq.m.-97 sq.m. P11.2M Find out what everybody
has been raving about today!
Call or text Danny dela Cruz at +639279567523 Call or text Renne Isidro at +639153728220

To advertise Tel: (632)812-3333 Mobile: +639272760360 E-mail: advertising@condocentral.com.ph

Your gateway MAKATI
to Makati EXECUTIVE
TOWER III
Sen. Gil PuyatAve., Makati City

40-storey office,
commercial
and residential
condominium
As low as

P9,980
per month

www.condo.com.ph
For inquiries and viewing requests:
CALL NOW (632) 812-3333

To advertise Tel: (632)812-3333 Mobile: +639272760360 E-mail: advertising@condocentral.com.ph

 happenings

The newest café in the city

Andrea Mastellone, General
Manager of the Shangri-la managed
property, Traders Hotel Manila (THM)
and Julie Benedicto, chairman of
RSB Group of Companies and New
Riviera Hotel Development Co., Inc.
owning company of THM announced
the opening of Latitude, providing
its clientele with a new experience in
the modern dining scene on Roxas
Boulevard.
Executive Sous Chef Edwin Santos
brings his mastery of the cuisine to
the Latitude kitchen. Santos honed his
skills as an apprentice in various inter-
national hotel chains and before the
opening of Latitude, Left: Ms. Kitchie Paulino, Mr. Greg Brand of service, guests restaurants interior. Intimate, high
Dogan, VP & General Manager
Santos was part of
Makati Shangri-La, Manila, and
will enjoy tableside pre- backed booth seating adds to the
the opening team Mr. Andrea Mastellone, General sentations of a carver, nocturnal mood of the space. Lati-
of Circles at Makati Manager, Traders Hotel, Manila soups, salads, cheeses tude also offers a semi-private area
Right: Mr. Andre Kretschmann,
Shangri-La. and desserts. A la carte for special occasions and intimate
General Manager Shangri-La Resort
The 150 seat res- & Spa, Boracay, Executive Sous Chef menus also include events. The restaurant’s dining
taurant offers varied Edwin Santos, Miss Earth Water dishes from 4 countries room was designed by Kaye Fordelon
dining experiences. 2006 Catherine Untalan, Mr. Greg in the circle of latitude Tagle, a talented and very promising
Dogan, Vice President & General
The culinary show- Manager Makati Shangri-La, Manila, as Traders. These are: interior designer.
place, with 12-course and Mr. Michael Jaey Albaña, Philippines, Guatemala,
menus which change Director of Sales & Marketing, Mexico, South Africa
Traders Hotel, Manila
daily, composed and Thailand. Latitude is open daily from 6:00 a.m.
of seasonal, local The contemporary until 11:00 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and
produce and superior ingredients furnishings in radiant, warm woods dinner. For reservations, please call Res-
enhanced by Santos vision and classic and muted fabrics, complemented taurant Reservations and Information
culinary skill. Pampered by the Traders with mood lighting graced the Center at (32) 5237011 local 2402.

Architectural brilliance at Wilcon

Architecture as a field
has always been one of consis-
tency and dynamism. A balance
of high quality, good design and
multi-functionality must be met
in order to achieve one’s desired
result. It is a field that rests on ex-
pertise and most of all, reliability.
The incomparable Arlen De
Guzman is one man that thrives
on consistency. Recognized as one
of the most renowned architects
in the country and recognized in-
ternationally, brilliance is a virtue
that he is all too familiar with. His
impressive rise to the top of the
industry began when he bested
everyone in the local architectural
exams back in 1977. From then
on, Arch. De Guzman took the
country by storm. His exemplary
work is strewn all over the Metro,
from the Rockwell Power Plant,
the Benpres Building Penthouse
and the Marriott Hotel Cebu.
He seeks nothing more than the
best and he finds this only at
Wilcon Builders’ Depot. Offering a
complete array of tiles, plumb-
ing fixtures, furniture, hardware
needs, hand and power tools,
houseware, building materials
and a lot more, Wilcon lives up to
the stringent needs that Arch. De
Guzman require.
Given Arch. De Guzman’s
stature, he demands a straight-
forward approach to shopping
which Wilcon graciously offers.
He finds the air-conditioned
showrooms convenient to shop
at and the shopping experience
time-saving as shopping made
easy with the state of the art
presentations and the interactive
showcases that helps him see the
dream showcase in realistic figure.
Visit the Wilcon Builders’ Depot
nearest you: Libis at 90 Rodri-
guez Jr. Ave, Ugong Norte, Libis,
QC; Las Piñas at 8003 Real St.;
Alabang Zapote Rd., Las Piñas,
Balintawak at 1274 EDSA Balint-
awak, QC; Pasong Tamo at 2212
Pasong Tamo, Makati; Quirino
at L119 C1 Mindanao Ave., Brgy.
Talipapa, QC; and Filinvest
Alabang at B29 Alabang Zapote
Rd cor. Brideway Dist., Filinvest
Corporate City, Alabang, Muntin-
lupa. For inquiries, call 634-8387.

94 | CondoCentral
 Condo dwellers
have moved in
with us.

Condo Central, the only monthly glossy devoted to condominium lifestyle and business, will celebrate its first
anniversary this October. We take pride in this achievement, having overcome the many hurdles an independent
magazine faces and the stiff competition posed by other titles. In such a short span of time, Condo Central
has the market’s top-of-mind recall when it comes to condo/home/real estate niche, with 70 percent of our
every issue bought.

As we open another chapter in our exciting story, we would like to invite you to join us in our celebration. For
our anniversary issue, we have customized a special advertising package that will offer you a double mileage.

Double the size of our regular issue, our first anniversary edition will extensively feature the hottest de-
velopments in town, the newest trends in arts and design, profiles on real estate key players, architects and
designers and the latest lifestyle.

We hope that you respond favorably to our invitation. Thank you for the support
you have extended to us and we promise to stay true to our commitment in Condo
Central as an informative and entertaining tome.

PH
Be IL I
PP
au IN
ty ES
an
d
Bl
iss
in
Hi
gh
Li
v in

Over
g

500,000
copies
circulated!

Contact us: Condo Centr al Magazi ne

2 / F P & L B l d g . , L e g a z pi S t . , L e g a s pi V i l l a g e , M a k a t i C i t y
Te l e p h o n e : (6 3 2) 81 2 -3 3 3 3 • Fa x : (6 3 2) 8 9 3 - 81 3 4 • M o b i l e : + 6 3 9 2 7 2 7 6 0 3 6 0 CondoCentral | 95
E-mail:admin@condocentral.com.ph
 epilogue
The unbearable beingness of light
Drawing inspiration from the
Renaissance period, Melbourne-based
photographer Emmanuel Santos
presents and illuminating and theatri-
cal series of angels and biblical visions
in the exhibition The Passing of Light.
It shows at the silverlens gallery from
Sept. 6 to Oct. 2. For over a decade,
Santos has researched sacred texts to
present a conceptual interpretation
of legends and myths surrounding
the ephemeral domains of the divine.
96 | CondoCentral
The 38 photographs presented here
draw on the holy scriptures of the
Bible, the Torah, and the Koran. In
all of the works, Santos presents a
dramatic backdrop of recognizable
places – from ancient, sacred sites
to the bustling, modern metropolis
of famous cities. In the foreground,
Santos’s angels fly, swoop, listen,
crouch, comfort, or salvage lost faith,
broken trust and innocence - accord-
ing to their individual narratives.
Born in the Philippines in 1957, Em-
manuel Santos migrated to Melbourne
in 1982. A photo essayist specializing
in areas of ethnology, spirituality and
social documentary, Santos began his
photographic career working for the
United Nations High Commission for
Refugees. He has had numerous solo
and group exhibitions in Australia,
Singapore, Japan, Belguim, France, the
Ukraine, Israel and Brazil. His work is
also widely collected and published.
This is his first show in the Philippines.
As a part of the Saturday gallery
events for the exhibit, Emmanuel
Santos will be giving an Artist Talk
on Sept. 8, from 3 to 5 p.m. silverlens
gallery is located at 2320 Pasong Tamo
Extension, Warehouse 2, Yupangco
Building. Gallery hours are 10 to 7
p.m., Mondays to Fridays and 1 to 6
p.m. on Saturdays. For more informa-
tion, call 816-0044 or email manage@
silverlensphoto.com.
CondoCentral | 97