Politicians’ foresight

Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Antonio V. Omeña

Estatements

CEBU'S economic prosperity is due mainly to the entrepreneurship of its inhabitants, coupled with the foresight of our politicians, like Serging Osmeña Jr. who conceptualized the construction of the Cebu-Mactan bridge, the transfer of the Lahug airport to Mactan Island, the development of the North Reclamation Area with the provision of international harbor facilities.

It was Serging who first conceptualized the South Reclamation Properties but he prioritized the North Reclamation Area instead because of the then proposed international port, which was protected by Mactan island from disastrous monsoon wind. But martial law brought down the political leadership of Serging.

Observers are concerned about the lack of foresight or the failure to execute foresight among leaders and members of business, civic, religious and professional organizations to ensure sustainable development for Cebu.

The foresight of then Gov. Emilio Osmena to bid out the 40-hectare provincial lot occupied by the golf course of Club Filipino triggered the entry of Manila-based companies to invest in Cebu.

The concept of Vice Gov. Sanchez to build a super highway traversing Cebu’s hinterlands, connecting Daanbantayan in the north and Santander in the south shows foresight that would create tremendous economic benefits to Cebuanos.

Such foresight, however, is absent among Metro Cebu leaders who cannot even agree on having a common sanitary landfill. The rapid urbanization of the island of Cebu demands the consolidation of some towns and cities for a common sanitary landfill.

The lack of foresight to widen city roads and construct thousands of miles of roads is now the major cause of traffic snarls.

The unlimited mobility of automobiles is a major cause of urban sprawl that characterizes the highly decentralized cities of our country today. The city roads in Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, Cebu and Talisay were designed—and remain, to date—for horse-drawn carriages. If not for national roads, traffic would be at a standstill in these cities.

Cebu City should construct more roads leading to Talamban since its hinterland has become a favorite location for residential subdivisions.

SQUABBLING LEADERS. The non-political leaders in Cebu have been complacent amid the bitter political positioning of Mayor Tomas Osmeña against Gov. Gwen Garcia, his brother and other personalities.

Analysts find no logic in stopping economic development in the Banilad area due to traffic snarls. Traffic snarls can be studied and remedied, whereas controlling economic development—by way of prohibiting commercial real estate development—affects employment opportunities in the area that was once a friar land.

The Cebu City Council wants friar land lot owners to cease from undertaking any development for commercial usage. In retaliation to the unreasonable policy of Cebu City Hall, Gov. Gwen Garcia and brother Rep. Pablo John Garcia found it convenient to question the business transactions in the South Reclamation Properties, which has caused Cebu City tremendous debt.

When will Cebu ever have political peace? Since the early 1950s and until today, Cebu’s political leaders continue to squabble like children. The only time there was silence was during the Marcos dictatorship when all politicians had to toe the line.

R7 visitor arrivals up

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

By Debra Magallon-Estero

FOREIGN and domestic tourist arrivals in Central Visayas grew 4.78 percent in the first quarter this year even though six of the region’s top 10 international travel markets posted negative arrival rates during the period.

“We are still fortunate here since we were able to post growth.

But in other areas, they are posting negative rates already,” said Department of Tourism (DOT) 7 Director Patria Aurora Roa yesterday during the 888 News Forum.

Arrivals from the Korean market—which remained to be the biggest travel market of the region, accounting for a 20.85 percent share—dropped to 46,758 in the first quarter this year compared to 54, 092 in the same period last year.

Roa said the depreciation of the Korean won—as a result of the global financial crisis—is a main factor in the decline of
Korean arrivals in the region.

Aside from Koreans, arrivals from Taiwan, Japan, United States, Germany and Australia also declined.

Based on data from DOT, travelers from Saudi Arabia posted a notable increase of 319.29 percent in the first quarter of this year, from 1,410 in the same period in 2008 to 5,912 for the first quarter this year. This helped bring total foreign arrivals to 224,263 from 216,704 in the first quarter of 2008, or an increase of 3.49 percent.

More Chinese

Tourist arrivals from China also posted an increase of nearly 60 percent to 13,104 in the first quarter from 8,241 in the first quarter last year. In the same period, arrivals from Hong Kong also grew by 12.28 percent, to 7,390 this year from 6,582 last
year.

Roa said the increase in foreign arrivals from Hong Kong and China is a result of marketing efforts made by the DOT in the last five years. “Our efforts finally paid off,” Roa said.

The growth in terms of tourist arrivals was also made possible by “strong” domestic tourism in Central Visayas, she added.

The number of inter-island travelers in Central Visayas reached 333,993 in the first three months of this year, a 5.67-percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Cebu remained to be the top destination for domestic tourists, with 237,449 arrivals, accounting for more than 71 percent of the region’s total market share. Bohol came in next with 47,526 domestic arrivals while Negros Oriental closely followed with 46,499. Siquijor was able to get 2,519 domestic tourists at the end of the first quarter.

Cebu is also the top province in the region in terms of foreign arrivals, getting 82.40 percent or 184,790 of Central Visayas’ total market share. Bohol received 24,350 international tourists while Negros Oriental and Siquijor account for 11,861 and 3,262 foreign tourists, respectively.

Save your homes, Pag-ibig official says

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

By Elias O. Baquero

THE Home Mutual Development Fund or the Pag-ibig Fund has urged delinquent housing borrowers to avail themselves of the benefits of a new law that condones penalties on delinquent borrowers.

Speaking before the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO) Forum, Victoria dela Peña, department manager of Pag-ibig Fund-Mandaue Branch, said that unlike the previous condonation program, where a delinquent housing borrower was required to put up as down payment 10 percent of the total debt or arrears, Republic Act 9507 does not require any payment.

“This is their only way to save their homes from foreclosure. They must act now. This is their last chance. The law is good only for 18 months, starting October 2008,” said dela Peña.

She added that the arrears will also be reduced because a portion of the condonable interest was removed.

“Within the first 12 months, 10 percent of the overdue interest will be condoned,” Dela Peña said.

However, the terms of the condonation availment will depend on the age of the delinquent borrower.

If the borrower is 40 years old, he or she could avail himself or herself of the 25-year term. If he is 50 years old, the term will be 15 years.

“They really have to avail themselves of this opportunity under RA 9507. They may approach the Pag-ibig office immediately for guidance,” dela Peña said.

She said that if a delinquent borrower will not apply for condonation under this new law, he or she will definitely lose the foreclosed house.

Interest

Meanwhile, engineer Alex Patiño, chief of the housing loans division of Pag-ibig Fund Mandaue Branch, said that effective
April 2009, the interests on loans were reduced under Circular 247 or the Pag-ibig Fund End-user Home Financing Program.

He said that loans ranging from P400,000 to P750,000 now have an interest of only six percent.

The monthly amortization will be at P2,400.

“While we increased the loan value, we retained the six percent interest rate,” Patiño said.

In the past, loan brackets such as P750,000 to P1 million; and P1 million to P1.25 million had a 10.5 percent interest rate.
These have been lowered to 8.5 percent and 9.5 percent, respectively.

The interest rate for loans ranging from P1.25 million to P2 million is still at 10.5 percent, while loans ranging from P2 million to P3 million have an interest of 11.5 percent.

Patiño said that under these new interest rates, borrowers can save a lot.

Camella makes dreams within reach

Updated May 15, 2009 12:00 AM

Camella brings grand living within reach of Filipino families.

MANILA, Philippines - When ground is broken to lay the foundation of a new home, being built is not merely a house but a new life as well. It is at the core of every Filipino’s dream; the heart from which every aspiration takes root. From starting a family to pursuing success in one’s profession, it all begins with the house that one can truly call his own.

Undeniably, it is a measure of success. Every brick laid out represents a triumph over adversity. As the walls grow, so progresses his life journey — securing a stable job, assuming a greater sense of responsibility, and affirming an unwavering commitment to family. Within those four walls and a roof lies the essence of every Filipino’s life quest. And for over 30 years, he has been undertaking this voyage with Camella by his side.

Founded in 1977 under C&P Homes Inc. by Senator Manuel B. Villar, Camella’s remarkable growth has allowed it to offer far more than an affordable home for the average Filipino family. In the past three decades, it has consistently provided value-for-money homes in masterplanned communities - the first real property developer to do so in the country.

Camella, the pioneer in the affordable housing segment, has built over 200,000 homes through 87 projects - maintaining a strong presence in Mega Manila and 17 other key provincial destinations and 38 cities and municipalities, while aggressively expanding to other regions.

So massive is its reach that an entire generation of Filipinos has come to refer to Camella as their first address. The homes have stood witness to the many celebrations of life. A child’s birth, his first steps, beginning school, taking family vacations, graduation, landing the first job, getting the promotion, falling in love, and starting a new family - every step was taken with Camella. Indeed, every brick tells a story.

More than just offering attractive homes at affordable prices, Camella has been building communities as it develops its properties. Understanding the Filipino spirit and the bond it shares with its kin, every property is designed to cultivate and nurture relationships among residents - creating a secure neighborhood of friends where parents need not fear for their children’s safety, and spouses may leave for work with the assurance that their family’s wellbeing is adequately looked after.

Camella also offers varied home choices, with a portfolio that boasts of a full range of options - from inner city town houses to vast suburban single-family homes; from mid-rise condominiums to luxurious high-rises. Indeed, there is a Camella home suitable for one’s income and location.

Another aspect of property development that shows Camella’s sensitivity to its customers’ needs and preferences is in the area of maximizing spaces. Camella realizes that one need not settle with cramped spaces even when there are budget challenges to be considered. It has adopted a style and interior design strategy that makes an available space seem bigger than it actually is. By doing this, Camella is giving its customers an opportunity to move from crowded places to well-planned spaces.

After over 30 years, Camella remains committed to fulfilling its vision of providing quality homes, well-planned communities and home investment opportunities to millions of Pinoy families and Filipino workers overseas. And as the Filipino continues his life’s journey, he is reassured that each step taken is with Camella by his side.

For more information on Camella’s varied portfolio of homes, call: 772-1096 for South Manila; 718-1896 for East Manila; 418-0975 for North Manila; (044) 796-0078 for North Luzon; (043) 757-0702, (033) 337 7699 and (082) 298-0387 for Mindanao projects or log on to www.camella.com.ph.

Much sought after address

Updated May 15, 2009 12:00 AM

The Art Deco stylings of Eastwood LeGrand 2 make it a well sought for address in the east.

MANILA, Philippines - Admit it, technology has spoiled you. Everything you need is already at arms’ length. You need to pay the bills, transact using your phone or through your online account. You need a new secretary? Make your mouse do the hiring for you. Now, you can even shop and communicate with your friends through the Internet, saving you both time and effort.

But why settle for a virtual electronic life when you can enjoy the same kind of convenience without the trappings of technology? Megaworld’s Eastwood LeGrand 2 affords residents the luxury of being closer to everything they desire — from food to entertainment, shopping to relaxing — without having to resort to remote relationships.

“In today’s fast-paced world, time is everything. People are so used to getting what they want in an instant, they want their homes to also offer that kind of convenience. At Eastwood LeGrand 2, you can get to wherever you want to go and do whatever you need to do in an instant.

For more information on how to start enjoying the pampered lifestyle at Eastwood LeGrand 2, please call 421-4243 or 47 or visit the showroom at Eastwood City’s posh Orchard Road. Or check out www.megaworldcorp.com.

Zuellig builds P7-billion office high-rise in Makati

Wednesday, 13 May 2009 18:29

FIRST ‘GREEN’ OFFICE BUILDING: President Arroyo lowers the time capsule for the Zuellig Building, the largest investment in a high-rise office building Makati has seen so far this year. The building aims to be the fi rst “green” offi ce building in the Philippines with a LEED Gold certifi cation for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Assistimg the President are Daniel Zuellig (left), Architect Willie Coscoluella (holding capsule) and David Zuellig. President Arroyo joined the groundbreaking of the Zuellig Building, the largest investment in a high-rise office building Makati has seen so far this year. The building will offer 33 floors (66,000 sq m) of prime-grade office space to tenants who look for the highest standards of quality and sustainability. The building aims to be the first “green” office building in the Philippines with a LEED Gold certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED is a rating system for green buildings established by the US Green Building Council to guide developers, architects, engineers and the construction industry toward sustainable design. Despite the challenging global economic environment, Zuellig reaffirms with this investment its confidence in the resilience of the Philippine economy and in the status of Makati as the country’s premier business center. CB Richard Ellis, the exclusive leasing agent for the Zuellig Building, projects that office vacancy rates will increase as off-shoring and outsourcing tenants move into low-cost buildings, but expects demand for prime office space and rental rates to rebound to early 2008 levels by the building’s completion date in 2012. The Zuellig family has been in business in the Philippines since the early 1900s. Zuellig Pharma is a major distributor of pharmaceuticals in the Philippines and other Asian countries. On May 4 a testimonial reception was held in honor of the patriarch, Dr. Stephen Zuellig, on the occasion of his 92nd birthday. In addition to announcing the groundbreaking of the Zuellig Building, Dr. Zuellig highlighted the role of the Zuellig Family Foundation and Interphil, the Zuellig Group’s manufacturing arm, in making basic medicines available to the poor at affordable prices. R. R.Reyes

THE MASTER BUILDER UP CLOSE

Written by Rizal Raoul Reyes / Correspondent

Wednesday, 13 May 2009 18:30

PROFESSIONALISM: one word that propelled DMCI founder and chairman David Consunji to the enviable role of master builder in the Philippine construction industry. One phrase, in turn, marks his outfit’s projects: excellence in construction. There is the FGU Building on Ayala Avenue and the Church of the Holy Sacrifice in UP-Diliman. And several more physical tributes to his mastery. “I am proud of the Development Bank of the Philippines [DBP] project because it’s a major manifestation of how we work. At that time, the DBP was the first building in Makati to install state-of-the-art security systems,” said Consunji in an interview with the BusinessMirror. Consunji became nostalgic when he mentioned the old Rizal Theater (now the site of the Makati Shangri-La Hotel), because DMCI introduced a new engineering design. “But I was also happy when DMCI won the bid to build Makati Shangri-La,” he fondly recalled. Indeed, DMCI has grown tremendously. It is now into property development, water utilities, energy and transportation. Still, it’s in the construction business where it made its biggest mark. Early years Consunji, who started as a concrete inspector, received P400 as monthly salary for his first job in 1952. He later established his own company in 1954, investing P700 for a secondhand concrete mixer to start his business. Interestingly, Consunji was also assisted by an illustrious aunt, Dr. Paz Mendoza Guazon (after whom what was formerly Manila’s Otis Street is now named), who happens to be the first Filipina graduate of the University College of Medicine and Surgery in 1912. She was also the first Filipina to get a degree of Doctor in Tropical Medicine and Public Health in 1916. Consunji said his aunt Paz had a great influence on him, especially in his younger years, looking after the young Consunji when his mother died. The University of the Philippines civil-engineering graduate recalled that banks did not give him a hard time when he was borrowing money for his fledgling business. “The banks processed my loans quickly, because they knew I am the nephew of Dr. Guazon.” His aunt Paz, meanwhile, kept on praying that her nephew would not do something foolish to besmirch the family name. “I often saw my aunt praying that I would not go astray,” he fondly recalled. Consunji, who’s turning 88 this year, said his aunt was concerned about his business because she had bad experiences with other contractors who were classified as the tableria-type because of their sloppy work and poor quality. “I assured my aunt Paz that I wouldn’t follow the nefarious practices of the people under the tableria system.” In this aspect, Consunji said he was motivated to pursue his goal to professionalize the industry, Meanwhile, Dr. Potenciano Guazon, his equally brilliant uncle, also helped him by referring him to other projects. Guazon was the first Filipino surgeon to perform the first sphincter-saving resection of the rectum in a female patient with rectal cancer in 1919. He was also the first Filipino head of surgery and chief of surgeon of the Philippine General Hospital. Among the major clients in his early years were Atlantic Gulf and Danarra. Joining the bureaucracy and going ‘underground’ Working in government as the secretary of the Department of Public Works, Transportation and Communications from August 23, 1971 to 1975 is considered by Consunji as one of his memorable experiences. Actually, his entry into the bureaucracy was accidental. “I was not planning to join government. The late senator Gil Puyat recommended me to President Marcos,” said Consunji. “I asked Marcos why he selected me to the post, one of the most coveted positions in government. He told me ‘the trouble with many people like you is that you think working in government is easy. Now, I am giving you the chance, why are you refusing it,’” said Consunji. After the talk with Marcos, Consunji told himself he will try it for six months. In one meeting, Marcos asked him about his impression of the department. “In a witty reply, I told Marcos I was surrounded by ‘enterprising’ bureaucrats,” said Consunji. Consunji also got exposed to the patronage system of Philippine politics during his stint at public works. He told Marcos that he had sufficient evidence to send to jail two prominent political leaders whom he discovered had committed anomalies in their infrastructure projects. “But Marcos told me we cannot go after them. He told me that he would not be in power without the support of people like them,” said Consunji. Another memorable experience for Consunji in the Marcos Cabinet was his lobbying to build a subway in Manila. He said he was able to convince Marcos of the feasibility of a subway during a one-on-one meeting. “He was convinced that a subway in Metro Manila would be a very good solution to the burgeoning traffic problem in the metropolis,” said Consunji. “I also told Marcos that putting up an [elevated] mass transit system would be detrimental because this will lead to the emergence of blighted areas,” added Consunji. Apparently, he was right, as Taft and Rizal avenues are undergoing this predicament right after the completion of the Light Rail System 1. Actually, economics played a vital factor in the subway construction. When he told former Prime Minister Cesar Virata that it would cost the government at that tine P6 billion, Consunji said Virata scratched his head and asked him how the government can pay such a huge sum for the project. The subway proposal also ran into bad timing because a similar Calcutta project was bogged by long delays before it was completed. Despite the complexity of the subway, Consunji remained optimistic that Filipinos were capable of putting up one just like their other Asian counterparts. His fondness for the subway project got some ribbing from former colleagues, particularly from then-executive secretary Alejandro Melchor. “Alex Melchor used to tell the Cabinet that Dave Consunji is going underground,” he fondly recalled. The real role of the infrastructure czar During his time, Consunji said the government had a clearer road map in infrastructure development. He said the 1935 Constitution gave a clear-cut role to the secretary of public works. He is responsible for building, developing and maintaining the entire infrastructure in the country. “Based on the 1935 Constitution, public works has that mandate. As a result, we have a road map on public works unlike today,” he said. Because of that clear road map, Consunji said C-5 and C-6 were already planned during his term as public works secretary. However, C-5 was completed when Marcos was no longer in power, and C-6 remains unfinished. He laments the anarchic situation on Edsa, which does not deserve to be called a highway. “It’s supposed to be a highway but not anymore, because there was no control in regulating the putting up of buildings, such as the malls,” he pointed out. Being an archipelagic country, Consunji said the development of roll-on, roll-off as a chief mode of transportation must be pursued because of the fact that many Filipinos cannot afford to ride in airplanes. Farmer Dave Unknown to many people, Consunji goes to his Davao ranch whenever he wants to relax from his work in DMCI and experience a change of atmosphere. In the ranch, he loves to look after his Brahman bulls and Long Horns. He developed the love for farming during Japanese time, when he learned to plough the rice fields. “I feel relaxed when I am staying in the ranch. It gives me a different aspect of fulfillment,” he said.

South Forbes' Thai Palace

Updated May 15, 2009 12:00 AM

The infinity-edge swimming pool has a stunning view that exudes an atmosphere of quiet elegance.

MANILA, Philippines - There are one or more traditional palaces in every country that remind citizens and give visitors a background into the history of the country. Built in 1782 by King Rama I, the Grand Palace of Thailand was the official residence of the Chakri monarchs until the reign of King Rama VIII. Now a museum, it consists of several Thai-style buildings with highly decorative architectural detail.

Noted for ingenious assimilation of foreign culture with our own Filipino sensibilities, South Forbes Golf City, the largest fully-integrated and all-themed golf resort city at the heart of the Metro Sta. Rosa - Tagaytay corridor, and recipient of the 2007 CNBC International Property Awards, the world’s most prestigious property awards programme, for Best Golf Community Development, has built an astounding clubhouse for the royal residents of Phuket Mansions and Phuket Estates, exuding the best of Thai culture and that of ours.

“We have recently completed the Phuket clubhouse and is now ready for use by its residents,” announced Jeffrey Ng, Cathay Land president. “It is undeniably the crown jewel of our two Thai-themed enclaves — a palace in its own right.”

Vibrant Palette. Phuket Mansions residents deserve a regal entry and what better way than with a brilliant display of colors. Like a flank of honor guards to welcome the King, colorful bougainvilleas and tall anahaw trees directs residents and guests from the gate to the clubhouse while giving a strong sense of contrast that creates a stirring panorama. The main driveway of natural black stones offer a counterpoint to the whites, pinks, and greens of the foliage.

A Make-over. Thailand’s zeal for modernization has not eclipsed their traditional culture but even preserved it. The Phuket enclaves clubhouse, the first and most elegant structure which can be seen from the property’s main gate, conveys classic Thai aesthetics while embracing modern lines suited to today’s appeal.

The high-pitched roof is its most prominent element as it has always been the defining feature of classical Thai architecture. A massive pristine-white non-gate with floral patterns hints of the plethora of vibrant Thai flowers. Beyond at the main lobby are interlocking wood-clad columns and beams that suggest warmth and hominess.

The clubhouse is designed to accommodate functions in different environments — air-conditioned indoor, covered al fresco, and outdoor — and the function halls are enclosed in glass, creating a seamless blend between interior and exterior. These glass doors that keep separate functions private can also be opened to expand to a larger space; hence, a bigger function area.

Flowing Waters. The symbiotic relationship between nature and structure manifests itself in the Thai tradition of building beside water. Water refreshes and cleanses our aura and body. The blanket of black natural stones of the clubhouse’s driveway and rotunda leads down to the 25-meter infinity lap pool which presents a scene of sheer tranquility with the illusion of water flowing down the river below. Pavilion-style gazebos, outdoor showers, reflecting pools and a sunbathing deck remind of a Phuket weekend experience.

As a river runs between the enclaves of Phuket Mansions and Phuket Estates, a wooden foot bridge, widely used back in the days of old, now connects the residents of these villages through the rear of the clubhouse and a feature park on the other side. And just like in Thailand on the event of the Loi Khratong, residents and guests will notice hundreds of lights floating on water, gently flickering, dipping and dancing in the breeze as they, making a spectacular sight.

Royal Perks. The anchor of the whole development is the centerpiece world-class 18-hole South Forbes Golf and Leisure Club where membership comes free with every lot or condominium unit purchase at no activation cost.

And should club members visit Thailand, they can drop by and play golf at the Laguna Phuket Golf Course with their privileged access and special discounts through South Forbes’ affiliation with the IMG Sports Club.

Move in right here, right now. Call 635-7777 or 631-8855 for a free city tour or log on to www.southforbes.com for more information.

Coming up daisies at Georgia

Updated May 15, 2009 12:00 AM

The sunset at Georgia Club is the perfect backdrop against the charmaing Southern-inspired homes.

MANILA, Philippines - Shrieks of laughter spill from a nearby park as children run around barefoot on a carpet of green grass. Not too far is a couple in a whitewashed swing on a wrap-around porch, keeping an eye on the children while enjoying strains of Ray Charles’ “Georgia On My Mind” in the background.

Lazy summers in the American South certainly have a flair for the dramatic. Set against the romantic architecture of gabled roofs, plantation windows, and welcoming porches with swings, it speaks of the joys of youth and the promise of the future. It speaks of children and laughter and all things pure.

This infectious laughter has now begun to echo at Georgia Club. A development of Brittany Corporation, a proud member of Vista Land & Lifescapes Inc., this sprawling property inspired by the romance and opulence of the American South recently unveiled Daisy Park - the latest outdoor amenity that its residents can now enjoy.

At the blessing and inauguration were Brittany’s Chief Operations Officer Mil Santicelles, Vista Land President Jing Serrano and Brittany Corporate Communications Head Camille Villar who eagerly participated in the planting of daisies. Decked in floral outfits, they joined the residents in a morning of ice cream cones and cotton candy - treats made available to residents and guests especially for the occasion.

“We started planning for Georgia Club in the same year as Jaime Foxx won an Oscar for the movie ‘Ray’,” shared Villar. “A team really went to Georgia and other southern states to study the architecture, the communities, and the culture. That’s why we really appreciate it when people who have been to Georgia tell us that this property really has the same feel as the inspiration. We are really proud that we have successfully recreated that same feeling here in Georgia Club.”

An open paradise

Daisy Park is a beautifully landscaped multi-level park. Surrounded by a white picket fence with an arched gateway, it is an open-air paradise where can kids can play and grown-ups can simply enjoy the beauty of nature.

At the lower level is a large sandbox where two open playhouses sit, connected by a blue wooden bridge. A third playhouse is situated on the higher level, overlooking the first two. Its entrances include a traditional step staircase as well as a spiral ladder to encourage active play. Scores of trees provide shade and several nooks and crannies are filled with flowers, creating delightful enclaves for girls’ tea parties and boys’ secret clubs.

Prime location, premium amenities and nature reserve

Georgia Club is located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Accessible via the Asia Brewery-Greenfield South Luzon Expressway toll exit and via the Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road, it is only an hour and a half away from Makati’s financial district. The twin access points strengthen Georgia Club’s value as a prime location.

This growing community has already welcomed within its gates a number of residents who have already moved in and are enjoying the slower pace and enchanting lifestyle which inspired its creation. Construction of many other homes is moving at a steady pace. Each home carries elements of the architecture that has inspired the property’s vision including wrap-around porches, gabled roofs, rope swings and pastel-colored facades.

Recently completed is the Peach Tree Clubhouse which offers a variety of facilities for residents and their guests to enjoy. Catering both to the idyllic and active lifestyles, it has lounge chairs and party venues as well as a swimming pool, basketball and tennis courts. The entire property has been beautifully landscaped to offer scenic jogging paths and walking trails.

Georgia Club is also a haven for birds and trees. Though it is a growing community, Brittany has taken great care to preserve the environment and respect the diversity of life within its realm. Georgia Club serves as a Nature Reserve where bird watchers’ clubs can visit and see 25 different species of birds on any given afternoon. There are over 1,200 trees that are over 50 years old including Narra, Mahogany, Acacia and Gmelina. The air is fresh and clean and unpolluted as evidenced by the presence of birds, lichens and fireflies.

Brittany Corporation is a maverick real estate developer of innovative and creative lifescapes. Its eclectic and vibrant portfolio includes Portofino, CrossWinds, Georgia Club, Avant at the Fort, KL Mosaic in Legaspi and Mosaic at Greenbelt. With masterplanned developments steeped in character, stylistic and thematic appeal, rich architectural details and excellent craftsmanship, it successfully and continuously reinvents the local real estate landscape. For inquiries and property previews, call 794-9998 to 99 or visit www.brittany.com.ph.

Radisson Hotel Cebu sets midyear opening

By Rhia de Pablo Updated March 17, 2009 12:00 AM

CEBU, Philippines - As its refurbishing and refitting phase is now 80 percent completed, internationally-managed Radisson Hotel Cebu targets to open by middle of this year.

Amidst the negative backdrop of the current global economic meltdown that is affecting the country’s business environment, operators of this hotel is still optimistic to achieve positive targets for their penetration of Cebu’s hospitality industry.

In an interview with Radisson Hotel Cebu general manager Grant J. Gaskin, he said that they will finally start their much anticipated operation by middle of this year after the refurbishing and refitting works of the former Sheraton hotel structure gets done.

Radisson Hotel Cebu is owned by the SM Investments Corp. (SMIC), the hotel investment arm of the SM Group but will be managed and operated by the Carlson Hotels Worldwide-Asia Pacific.

Gaskin said that by middle of this year, the hotel will open 400 new rooms together with all its world-class amenities.

“Radisson Hotel Cebu is built for today’s world and it has all the amenities of an international hotel,” said Gaskin.

He added that contrary to what others believe, the structure of the hotel was well done that despite a long period of underutilization; it remained moisture proof, leak-proof and structurally strong until this day.

“It’s just stories. The structure is actually 100 percent safe and tested. It was sealed, there was no moisture nor leakage and it be ready by mid-year and we are currently gearing up for its opening and we are recruiting an entire staff,” announced Gaskin during the 4th Trabaho sa Turismo Expo in SM Cebu where they were one of the many exhibitors looking for job applicants for 44 available positions.

Gaskin said that they will need about 340 staff for the hotel operation and they prefer to hire more Cebu-based workers to also generate jobs to locals in the area.

He said that opening the hotel amidst the current global economic slowdown is a challenge but they do not look at it as a hindrance for growth because they believe in the strong tourism potentials of Cebu as a tourism market and as a location.

“We are not scared to open at these uncertain times of the economy because Cebu is doing well and we believe that everything comes in cycle and that the crisis won’t take forever and we are looking forward for the good times to come. We will do things not done or offered in Cebu yet. It’s also about time for the city to have a new international hotel,” said Gaskin.

He said that Radisson Hotel Cebu will cater 50 percent to the commercial market composed of the business and corporate clientele and 50 percent leisure or travel market segment.

With its spacious ballrooms, the hotel is looking at bringing in more conference and banquet business to Cebu and it will also offer a plus to its prospective clientele as it is strategically located near SM City Cebu wherein visitors can enjoy shopping and dining in one destination, said Gaskin.

Currently, the Radisson Hotel Cebu is still applying for DOT accreditation and when it finally opens on the middle of this year, the hotel will be the first Radisson Hotels & Resorts property to open in the country.

SMIC and Carlson also have agreements for the management of two SM hotels in the Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City and these will be the Regent Manila Bay and Radisson Manila Bay which are scheduled to open within 2010.

Carlson Hotels Worldwide-Asia Pacific is one of the world’s ten largest hotel operators and it runs five hotel brands in the region including the Regent Hotels & Resorts, Radisson Hotels & Resorts, Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson, and Park Inn and it man

Surpassing the potential

Surpassing the potential
Updated May 15, 2009 12:00 AM

The Red Oak at Two Serendra brings the tranquility of suburbia within the convenience and heart of the fastest rising urban location.

MANILA, Philippines - A lot of things have limitations: the human ear can only hear up to 20,000 Hz; the highest grade one can get in an exam is an A or 100; an average man can only hold his breath underwater for 1.5 minutes.

But for a company christened with innovation, there is no such thing as a dead end - whatever the economic environment is or however stiff the competition may be.

This is exactly what propelled Alveo Land to where it is right now. Formerly known as Community Innovations, the real estate developer was Ayala Land’s answer when the market called for real time living solutions six years ago. And with the company’s intrinsic gift of foresight, it has once again moved forward by introducing a new paradigm in real estate planning: building life ecosystems.

“Our vision to give the market the life they deserve not only represents Alveo’s total commitment to high quality residential developments but our fortitude as a company in the face of the many new challenges of today’s recent market environment,” says Dan Abando, president of Alveo Land. “Our track record over the past six years has proved that we are consistent in delivering as promised; and backed by the stability of Ayala Land heritage, we are determined to maintain this in our future and ongoing projects.”

With this in mind, it’s not surprising that the company has expanded its portfolio from offering living spaces to lifestyle innovations. Going beyond talk of square meter and unit upgrades, this holistic approach to real estate development is a thrust already apparent in three of their most recent residential projects — Senta, The Red Oak at Two Serendra and Treveia.

“Here we always plan for the future. And this is how our generation sees our future — living well. The ever expanding and changing nature of the industry dictates the need for us to respond to the market by merging our real estate mastery with their lifestyle ideals,” adds Abando.

Alveo Land Corp., formerly Community Innovations, sets the benchmark for innovation in Ayala Land. Armed with sharper foresight, unparalleled excellence and total commitment, Alveo Land Corp. is a real estate company that doesn’t just find the means to provide the most innovative homes, it looks for ways to make you live the life you deserve. For more information, visit www.alveoland.com.ph, email info@alveosales.com.ph or call (632) 848.5100 (Metro Manila) and 1-800-10-8485100 (Outside Metro Manila).

Sarrosa Hotel adds 51 rooms

By Rhia de Pablo Updated May 15, 2009 12:00 AM

CEBU, Philippines – To intensify their operation and meet the growing demand for more quality rooms in the city as preparation for the much awaited upswing in the economy, home-grown Sarrosa International Hotel and Residential Suites will be adding an initial of 51 more rooms to its former 105 hotel type and residential suites.

In an interview with its sales account manager Henrik Ryan Tan, he said that Sarrosa International Hotel and Residential Suites will have a grand opening of its additional 51 rooms by June 10. These rooms are in its newest North wing composed of grand superior rooms, family suite, grand deluxe, and Sarrosa suite that are guaranteed bigger and than its current 65 hotel type rooms and 40 residential suites in its South wing.

He said that their latest hotel expansion is geared towards capturing a wider scope of the market from the lower-end to the higher-end of the spectrum and to also accommodate more number of guests especially during peak seasons in the city like the celebration of the Sinulog Mardi Gras.

The construction of the rooms started first quarter of last year and the new wing is composed of 10 stories, which will accommodate additional rooms and hotel facilities like a spa, a gym and dorm type rooms that are targeted to capture the growing student market in the area.

The expansion also paves way for the expansion of the hotel’s function rooms from five to 11 spacious rooms to accommodate more guests and serve more events such as weddings and debuts in which the hotel is popular for as they hold an average of more than eight wedding receptions in a week.

The 51 additional hotel rooms will cover the new wing’s third to fifth floors while the sixth to seventh floors will accommodate the dorm type student rooms and the eight to tenth floors is being initially eyed to accommodate the hotel’s penthouse, ambassador suites and presidential suites depending upon the condition of the economy.

“We are still finalizing our plans for the eighth to 10th floors. Considering that we are still under a crisis, we know that not everyone will likely want to pay more so our plans for these floors are still pending as we are still waiting for the outcome of the economy,” said Tan.

Sarrosa International Hotel and Residential Suites was established in 1997 by Tan’s family and it has an average of 70 percent monthly occupancy rate serving both local and foreign clientele.

Its new sales and marketing manager Rolette Veloso said that with the hotel’s new wing, Sarrosa will also intensify their sales and marketing efforts to get ahead of competition which has gotten tougher due to the influx of new players and the aggressiveness of existing ones.

She said that they also aim to strengthen their hotel’s brand image so that they can capture more markets and establish a stronger hold in the city’s hospitality industry as one of the city’s business hotels.

Veloso said that currently they are active in targeting new foreign markets such as Kuwaitis and other nationalities to also grow their foreign client-base.

“Before the hotel is not very active in its marketing efforts like capturing new markets but now we are trying to coordinate with local travel agencies and give them special rates so we can try to get new markets like Kuwaitis and other international tourists. We also want to capture government agencies to hold their functions here. We have realized the need to do strategic marketing to make the hotel known,” said Veloso.

Tan said that after their expansion and after the economy recovers, they are eyeing to open sales office in Davao and Manila to establish presence in those areas and after strengthening their brand, they are also eyeing an opportunity to put up a new branch outside Cebu.

Economist: Now is the best time to invest in real estate

Updated April 27, 2009 12:00 AM

CEBU, Philippines - While interest rates are currently on its lowest, consumers are advised to seriously consider investing on real estate or house and lot packages.

“Now, is the best time to build homes and take advantage of the low interest rates offered by banks and even Pag-Ibig,” said Cebuano economist Perry Fajardo.

He said the prices of homes and even other real estate properties are growing so fast, and Return-of-Investment (ROI) is assured.

Fajardo, who sits as the Dean for Economics Department of the University of San Carlos, said that prices of construction materials are now at its lowest, and while demand for construction works are not really that high nowadays, fees for construction workers and even the neighborhood “panday” is now very negotiable.

Significantly, he said banks are now extending their offering for real estate products, especially housing loans with very competitive interest rate packages, to cope with the tough competition in the banking industry.

Consumers are encouraged to take advantage of this favorable opportunity to invest on housing products, Fajardo said.

For monthly salary earners, it is the best time to utilize the Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-ibig—housing loan, while everything is low.

“Those who do not have a lot—borrow a lot,” Fajardo said explaining that the market for real estate now is on the loose, while some or most consumers are tied with the impression on holding on to their money and investment plans-- until the economy recovers.

Fajardo said for the real estate opportunity--now is the best time to let go of their money. Aside from low interest rates, developers are also offering attractive packages for buyers to cope with the tough competition.

He emphasized that with the present volatile economic movement, real estate offers the most safe investment opportunity, as value is guaranteed to be increasing.

However, for faster ROI, Fajardo said “be sure to buy the right location” for real estate investments. Those lots acquired that is within the neighborhood of a developing area, growth of value appraisal is faster, than those located in the far-flung communities.

According to Fajardo, those who have money, and are capable of borrowing capital for real estate investment, and even to achieve the desire of owning a house—now is the best time to realize the plan.

In the next few years, when the economy settles and on its recovery tract assessment value for real estate products will multiply significantly, and those that are wise enough to invest in these lean times will reap the good returns of their investments.

Cebu, specifically is one of the fastest growing urban centers in the Philippines, investment for real estate is at its ripe time now, or else those that fails to act now, will have their regrets in the future.— Ehda M. Dagooc

Real estate generates "stimulus" for Cebu

Updated April 30, 2009 12:00 AM

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu will have its own “economic stimulus” in the form of real estate, as this is expected to shield the province from being contaminated from the global economic weakening, this according to Chamber of Real Estate and Builders Association Inc. chairman Jimmy Cura.

The “still” active real estate in the country, specifically Cebu is seen to provide more jobs for Filipinos, as industry projects could trickle down to more job opportunities.

Because of this, real estate developers through Creba, hopes that the government will immediately come up with an efficient housing program that will not only address the housing backlog of the country but also to create jobs, specifically for the increasing number of displaced workers.

In Cebu, Creba-Cebu president Jose Soberano said that there are a lot of emerging real estate opportunities in tourism that industry players can take advantage of, aside from the promising housing sector.

“Significant growth in annual tourist arrivals especially for Cebu, have led to more condominium and condominium-hotel projects, mostly owned by foreigners,” Soberano said.

Cebu will actively partner with the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) “Live Your Dream Campaign” that encourages foreigners to invest in condominium units in the Philippines instead of regularly paying for hotel accommodations during their visit here.

Moreover, Cebu Investments Promotions Center (CIPC) managing director Joel Mari S. Yu also said that Cebu can attract more foreign direct investments by exploring and improving the information and technology sector.

Cura, however, calls on the government to speed up infrastructure projects such as airports, bridges and road networks, which are vital to the real estate industry.

“Infrastructure for tourism is woefully lacking,” Cura lamented.

Coral Point Development Corp. president and Creba-member Efrain Pelaez pointed out that Cebu, in particular, is “missing a lot of tourism infrastructure” such as concrete roads to Cordova and around Mactan Island, as well as the lack of drainage facilities.

Also, Cura emphasized that the multiplier effect of developing the country’s real estate sector reflect on the jobs generated such as for instance a single house being constructed would employ 60 people.

Cura is confident though, that once the infrastructure projects are carried out, the Philippines could easily lure in 10-million tourists annually. — Ehda M. Dagooc

Liloan remains a top pick for real estate developers

Updated May 15, 2009 12:00 AM

CEBU, Philippines – Lopzcom Realty Corporation continues to bank on the viability and the growing popularity of Liloan as an area for residential development through opening a new mid-range subdivision project called as Residences at North Road.

With an initial offering of 20 duplex units, Residences at North Road aims to capture the middle-end segment of the real estate market which is composed of overseas Filipino workers and their families, start-up families, young executives and professionals who are in the look out for sound tangible investments, said Lopzcom Realty Corp. vice president Gari Tiongco in an interview.

Tiongco said, “we are a small developer in a big field so we built the houses first so that the consumers will have confidence in our development and will be enticed to invest in our units. This will erase doubts on whether we can deliver the project especially at the height of the financial crisis.”

He said that at this point, they have noted this certain trend in the market because most buyers now prefer to purchase properties that they can see to also guarantee their investments.

“Buyers will now opt to buy something that is already built so they can see that their investment is ready for the taking and tangible because most consumers are now scared that developers cannot deliver their promises. This in turn is a challenge for us developers because we have to invest and pour more capital outlay to really make a sale,” said Tiongco.

He said that for Residences at North Road, they offer ready to occupy units with furnishings so that buyers can already move in after the purchase.

“Consumers are now more conscious in buying properties that they can already use so that they can make sure that their money is invested properly,” he added.

Residences at North Road lie in a less than one hectare property in Liloan and the prices of its monolithically built duplex units range from two million pesos to as high as P2.3 million with lot cut of 70 to 140 square meters.

Tiongco said that after building the duplex units, they will soon construct 10 to 15 single detach units as well as the subdivision’s amenities such as a park and playground and a common swimming pool.

Lopzcom Realty Corp. is a family business and its first project in the real estate development industry was a high-end subdivision in Davao and a low-cost housing in Consolacion called as Windfields. —Rhia de Pablo

Filinvest Land hikes capex budget by 30%

Written by Honey Madrilejos-Reyes / Reporter

Wednesday, 29 April 2009 20:11

DESPITE the impact of the prevailing global financial setback, the Gotianun-led property firm Filinvest Land Inc. (FLI) is hiking its capital spending by 30 percent this year to P5.3 billion from P4.1 billion a year ago to fund various residential projects. Interviewed at the sidelines of the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting on Wednesday, president Joseph M. Yap told reporters their plan to launch 29 new projects and phases this year with an estimated total sales value of P7.4 billion across all market segments. “We plan to launch more phases in our ongoing mid-rise projects in Ortigas Extension and Marcos Highway in Pasig City, as well as in Davao and Cebu. We will also launch a similar project in a new location in Santa Mesa, Manila,” he said. Also in the pipeline is a high-rise project in Makati City. With an estimated project cost of P1.5 billion, The Linear will feature two residential towers and a podium with commercial spaces. “The project will offer affordable residential condominium units at the periphery of the Makati Central Business District. We are targeting to break ground before the end of the year,” added Yap. The capex budget will be supported by a combination of internally generated funds and some bank borrowings. FLI, according to Yap, is also finalizing the masterplan for the development of the 50.6-hectare South Road Properties in Cebu City. Under its agreement with the local government, 40 hectares will be developed in four phases over a 20-year period. The remaining 10.6 hectares will be converted into three or four mixed-use clusters that will include hotels, commercial or retail space, offices and residential condominiums. The company plans to launch the first project by the end of the year or early 2010. For the business process outsourcing (BPO) market segment, Yap said the company is putting up two new buildings—Vector One and Vector Two—within the Northgate Cyberzone in Alabang. Seen to be completed within the year, the buildings will add another 35,600 square meters (sq m) of gross leasable space to FLI’s office building portfolio, bringing the total close to 168,000 sq m. “We are aready to take advantage of the opportunities as they arise…We believe that the demand for our main business which is mass housing will remain strong,” said Yap. From January to February this year, FLI’s sales reservations were up 13 percent year-on-year to P1.3 billion from P1.15 billion. At the end of 2008, the company’s net profit amounted to P1.86 billion, up 28 percent from the P1.45 billion it made the year before. The growth was on the back of a 9 percent rise in revenues to P5.27 billion, a 9-percent improvement over the P4.77 billion generated the previous year. Real-estate sales accounted for 67 percent of the total revenues with P3.51 billion, an 11-percent growth year-on-year. Rental income likewise grew by 11 percent to P1.14 billion over the same period. Despite the current global economic crisis, FLI’s core business of residential housing for the socialized, affordable and middle-income markets, continue to remain robust. FLI said total residential sales reservations for full year 2008 reached a record P6.6 billion, 32-percent more than the previous year. Meanwhile, FLI has deferred the appointment of an auditor for 2009 to 2010, “pending the review by the audit committee” of the company’s audit requirements. FLI also told regulators that the board, which appoints the external auditor, will take into consideration “the practice of the Securities and Exchange Commission to rotate external auditors or the handling audit partner every five years.” SGV & Co. is currently FLI’s external auditor. It billed Filinvest P1.085 million and P976,5000 for fiscal years 2007 and 2008, respectively. In an earlier filing in connection with its annual stockholders’ meeting, the company said “there has been no disagreement with FLI’s independent accountants on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure.” (With Emeterio Sd. Perez)

Vista Land extends buyback plan

Written by Honey Madrilejos-Reyes / Reporter

Thursday, 30 April 2009 19:59

VISTA Land & Lifescapes Inc. (VLL) extended for another six months its share buyback program, it said in a disclosure to the stock exchange on Thursday. The Villar-led company said it plans to spend a maximum amount of $25 million for the program, which will take effect until November 12, 2009. VLL launched the buyback program on November 12, 2007 and after a year, it decided to extend it up to May 12. “As of April 30, we have bought back a total of 320,686,000 shares with an aggregate value of about P619.10 million [exclusive of other charges],” it said. At the end of Thursday’s trading, VLL shares were valued P1.06 each. The company, in its pursuit to take advantage of the growing demand for low- to mid-income products, has allotted a capital expenditure of P7.7 billion this year. The amount is 7-percent lower than what it actually spent last year which was P8.3 billion. “We launched 32 new projects in 2008 valued at about P25 billion. We will continue to launch more projects this year, but we are being quite conservative given the generally guarded market sentiment,” said senior vice president for finance Ricardo Tan Jr. Twenty-eight projects are in the pipeline, which are expected to generate about P23 billion in revenues for the company.

ALI looks at other regions for new opportunities

Written by Willy Rodolfo III / Reporter

Thursday, 30 April 2009 20:05

Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) will continue to strengthen its presence in the support infrastructure of business process outsourcing (BPO) industry but is also looking at making a bigger presence in other markets like in the middle-income housing industry. President Antonino T. Aquino said the company is considering opportunities in other regions where they do not yet have presence. “We are looking at addressing markets where we have no presence in the past, particularly middle-income housing. We are also looking at presence in geographical locations as well with other product types,” he told reporters. Aquino, who also took over the chairmanship of ALI affiliate Cebu Holdings Inc. (CHI) from former president Jaime Ayala, said while the company continues to be affected by what is happening economically in the rest of the world, several key projects and plans are also ready to roll out at the first sign of an upswing. “We are preparing if there are times of softness, when there will be a situation where a level of growth will come back,” he said. “We would like to be ready to take advantage of the growth when it happens.” CHI, Aquino said rolled out several projects just in time when the world was “in trauma” as a result of the global economic crisis. He particularly pointed to the billion-peso expansion of Ayala Center Cebu called the The Terraces and the full renovation of the Marriott Cebu City Hotel. He said CHI and ALI are prepared to invest more in development projects especially in the BPO sector, which he said should continue to grow in the country despite the crisis albeit in a slower rate. “We see a continued growth in the BPO so that is a direction we want to pursue. The industry requires support infrastructure and even retail sector to support the industry,” Aquino told reporters in Cebu City.

Eton expects good prospects this year

Written by Honey Madrilejos-Reyes / Reporter

Sunday, 03 May 2009 18:36

ETON Properties Philippines Inc, (EPPI), the listed property firm of tobacco magnate Lucio Tan, sees a turnaround this year as it expects to post profits on the back of potential revenues from ongoing residential projects. Under the accounting rules adopted by the company, revenues will only be realized based on the percentage of completion of a residential project. EPPI is building The Eton Residences Greenbelt, Eton Baypark Manila, Eton Emerald Lofts, Eton Parkview Greenbelt, One Archers Place, Belton Place, South Lake Village at Eton City, and The Manors at North Belton Communities—most of which have been substantially sold. “We expect 2009 to be a banner year for EPPI. Our numbers will dramatically improve starting this year as we begin to recognize revenue from our residential projects and start earning recurring lease income from our office projects in Eton Cyberpod Centris and Eton Cyberpod Corinthian as well as the commercial leasing operations of Centris Station and Centris Walk,” said president and chief operating officer Danilo Ignacio. Full-blast construction activities in Eton Cyberpod Centris and Eton Cyberpod Corinthian increased the company’s property assets by 1,031 percent to P543.26 million while real estate inventories of residential projects under construction grew 176 percent to P311.29 million. Last year, despite the onset of the global financial turmoil, EPPI said it posted a 207-percent rise in customer advances and deposits reflecting strong reservation sales for all residential projects. The company achieved better consolidated revenues of P89.89 million, 334-percent higher than the previous year. However, a loss of P125.76 million was registered since no revenue has been recognized due to the minimal construction activities in its residential projects. Substantial scheduled construction work of its residential projects started this year. The company, formerly Balabac Resources, commenced operations in February 2007 and has since evolved into a full-range property developer with a wide portfolio of projects from mid-range to high-end residential developments, office and commercial projects and township developments. It has earlier announced a budget of over P10 billion from 2007 to 2011 to bankroll several development projects in Metro Manila and in key provincial cities.

The Millionaire Real Estate Investor - Overview

Real estate, builders’ group swears in new set of officers

Saturday, May 2, 2009

THE Chamber of Real Estate and Builders Association of Cebu Inc. (Creba Cebu) inducted into office its new set of officers for 2009 on April 24 at Crystal Hall of Crown Regency Hotel, Cebu City.

Formally sworn into office by Creba national president Dr. Jaime A. Cura were: Renato S. Avila of Jesa Management Corp. as chairman of the board; Jose R. Soberano of Cebu Landmasters Inc. as president; Herbert Buot as vice president; Alvin Lim of Handumanan Development Corp. as treasurer; lawyer Reuel Pintor of Pintor, Balorio Law Office as secretary; Fausto Lim of CBRE as auditor; lawyer Silvino Maceren of Magic Corp. as legal counsel; and Efrain Pelaez as trustee.

The induction, supported by PLDT-SME Nation and Fuente Triangle, was highlighted by a forum/panel discussion on “Emer-ging Opportunities of the Real Estate Industry in Tourism” with resource persons Cebu Investment Promotions Center director Joel Mari Yu, Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board arbiter Lyndon Juntilla, Professor Roque Magno of De La Salle University.

Pelaez and Soberano were also speakers during the forum. (PR)

Germany re-opens consulate office in Cebu after 100 years

Saturday, May 2, 2009

By Nancy R. Cudis

TO provide consular services to a growing number of German citizens in the country, Germany re-opened its honorary consulate office in Cebu after 100 years.

The German Government appointed long-time Cebu resident Dr. Franz Seidenschwarz, a botanist who teaches at the University of San Carlos-Talamban Campus, honorary consul.

“We are proud to re-establish our presence in this historic and dynamic city. The new consul will promote business, cultural, and scientific activities in Cebu. And Dr. Seidenschwarz is the right man at the right place,” said Ambassador Christian-Ludwig Weber-Lortsch,.

Weber-Lortsch said the first honorary consul of Germany based in Cebu was appointed in 1871 but “disappeared” in 1910. Since then, Germany opted to close the honorary consulate.

The ambassador said the re-opening of the honorary consulate office—now located at Ford’s Inn Hotel on A.S. Fortuna St. in Banilad, Cebu City—“signifies the fact that the German (resident and business) community in the Philippines is growing and prospering.”

In Cebu alone, there are more than 300 German citizens. More than 100 German companies—including furniture manufacturer and exporter Dedon and transportation company Ha-pag-Lloyd Philippines Inc., as well as other small and medium enterprises—continue to engage in furniture, shipping and tourism businesses in Cebu.

Weber-Lortsch said the new office also underscores Germany’s long-term commitment to the Philippines.

After handing over the official appointment documents to the new honorary consul last Wednesday at Casino Espanol, Weber-Lortsch and Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia unveiled the official signboard of the consular office.

Seidenschwarz has been named “adopted son” by the Provincial Government in 1997 in recognition of his work in the conservation of Cebu’s remaining forests.

In an interview, he said he plans to accomplish his primary task as a contact point for German citizens on any legal,
business and cultural issues.

Jobs still available in Cebu

Saturday, May 2, 2009
By Nancy R. Cudis

DESPITE the global economic slowdown, companies in Cebu—even those located in economic zones—are still hiring.

Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) 7 Director Elias Cayanong said the cost efficient measures taken by the companies in the past few months may have helped them recover from the effects of the global financial crisis.

This doesn’t prove, though, that the economy in Central Visayas has improved, he added.

“These companies were (probably) able to make up with their streamlining and cost-cutting initiatives and, at the same time, got some orders. They were able to consolidate their operations and now, with enough savings and with inventory clearing up, they are now in hiring and production mode,” he said.

Camera manufacturer Pentax Cebu Philippines Corp., for instance, has been hiring 200 production workers since the start of the year.

More orders

Renato Bontol, Pentax Cebu assistant general manager for administration, said the company has to hire more workers to cope with increasing orders. He pointed out that the demand for Pentax products usually picks up in time for summer.

He said the Pentax Cebu also received some orders from its mother company in Japan, which implemented a work force reduction program through voluntary retirement.

Pentax Cebu is located at the Mactan Economic Zone 1, which hosts 109 export companies with a total employment of 43,198.

According to Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) report on the effects of the global financial crisis on economic zone locators, 17 companies at MEZ 1 hired 167 employees and 14 more announced 152 job vacancies as of March 2009. These
jobs include sewers, fashion designers, accountants and managers.

The same report also stated that Fourlinks Inc. has relocated its facilities to MEZ 1 from China and is now hiring workers.

New locators

“Also, additional need for manpower is on its way for three new projects that have been approved by the Peza Board. (They are) the Norwegian Maritime, Kudo Support and Pasaporte,” the report stated.

Peza said other companies continue to hire more people. Among them are Korean-led Philippine BXT Corp., which owns Imperial Palace Waterpark Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City; shipbuilder Tsuneishi Heavy Industries Inc. in Balamban, Cebu; and Japanese electronics manufacturer and exporter Cebu Mitsumi Inc. in Danao City.

Dole, however, received reports of workers being displaced. The highest was in February when it recorded about 2,300. Only 700 workers lost their jobs in March, though.

Although the agency’s April report is yet to be finalized, Cayanong said the retrenchment figure in Cebu had “tapered off” last month.

Cayanong called on private and public stakeholders to continue their multi-sectoral endeavors to provide more jobs for the people in Central Visayas.

Yesterday, he joined SM Prime Holdings vice president for marketing Marissa Fernan and Cebu City Acting Mayor Michael Rama at the opening of the Jobapalooza 2009 at SM City Cebu.

Separate jobs fair were simultaneously held at the Provincial Capitol and at the Cebu City Sports Center.

The three venues offered a total of 10,500 jobs by 52 overseas companies and more than 90 local businesses. Dole expected more than 11,000 job applicants in all three jobs fair.

At SM City Cebu alone, more than 50 companies—mostly engaged in business process outsourcing, electronics, garments and information technology—offered about 500 jobs.

Gregorio Deramos, 32, is among the hundreds of applicants who joined the long line to the SM Cebu Trade Hall, hoping for a steady-paying job that matches his skills.

A father of two children, Deramos has been operating his own taxi for a year. Before that, he worked as a waiter at a local restaurant for five years. He went to the job fair in search of a better-paying job in a local or overseas company.

“This is part of SM’s corporate social responsibility, being one of the biggest employers in the country with more than 100,000 direct hires in all its operations throughout the country,” said Fernan, adding that the company plans to host a bigger jobs and livelihood fair next year.