Ateneo de Iloilo’s Bike-ride and Criterium at IBP

BIKE-FRIENDLY: Iloilo Business Park (IBP) is constantly making a mark as the region’s most bike-friendly business township with Giro D’ Ateneo, a color bike ride event and criterium race organized by Ateneo de Iloilo-SMCS Alumni Association with a start and finish point in front of Richmonde Tower on October 25, 2015 from 5AM to 11AM. The event is a fundraising campaign for Ateneo de Iloilo’s student scholars. This kind of event emphasizes IBP as a bike-friendly township for Ilonggos. Bike lanes along the Megaworld Boulevard, the township’s main highway continues to attract many health buffs to come and experience the eco-friendly ambiance of Iloilo Business Park.

Iloilo: Live + Invest

One of the heritage buildings at Calle Real, photo by Felipe Uygongco

Two words best describes Iloilo City these days: LIVE and INVEST. There is no doubt that this bustling metropolis outside of Luzon is making a spark and a name as the next center of investments, economic affluence and developments, a city of opportunity shaping the future of Western Visayas – Iloilo City.

Named after the nose-shaped river, “Irong-irong,” a Hiligaynon term which later became Yiloilo (as pronounced by the Europeans during the Spanish colonization period) and settled for its modern name Iloilo. A meeting point for international culture, trade and industry during the Spanish and American period in the Philippines, Iloilo is synonymous for its flourishing textile industry and ultimately instrumental in giving birth to the prosperous sugar industry of Negros through its rich elite capitalists in the olden days. It has cemented its claim as the irreplaceable “Queen City of the South,” the only city with such title in the archipelago given by Spain’s Ma. Christina as the Spanish crown’s “most loyal city” and popularized by its influential economic clout in the late 18th century and 19th century.

Top view of Jaro Cathedral Chruch, photo by Felipe Uygongco

The serene ambiance of Iloilo River Esplanade, photo by Felipe Uygongco

Iloilo is synonymous for its sweet and culture-loving people – the Ilonggos, whose passion transcends great resiliency, valor, artistry, optimism and spiritual devotion. Proofs of the city’s intact religious-cultural legacy are the existence ancestral houses, old churches, oldest business district – the Calle Real, age-old Hablon weaving industry, colorful festivals, beautiful clean river and mouth-watering delicacies like Batchoy and Biscocho that define Iloilo as a convergence of eco-cultural-culinary tourism destination incomparable to any other cities in the Philippines.

Dinagyang Festival, Ilonggos’ famous cultural spectacle performed at Iloilo Convention Center during the APEC ministerial meetings this year, photo by Felipe Uygongco

Today, Iloilo City is shedding another side of its eloquence and splendor – its newfound fame as the next vibrant investment and economic prominence creating a synergistic image of globalization, bridging its past glory and its present rise. Life in Iloilo is simple, serene, healthy and stress-free due to its old-world charm, a clean river creating ecological harmony and well-managed urban planning – envisioning a balance between developments and environmental preservation. Investment potential of the city is surging high due to its business-friendly and global perspective programmes, planning and visionary effort between public and private partnership, strong leaders working with its people to pursue the goal of fast-forward thinking and prosperity without neglecting the city’s cultural and ecological resources.

Benigno Aquino Avenue at night, photo by Felipe Uygongco

Megaworld Boulevard by day, photo by Ronelo Ladiao

Iloilo Business Park at night, photo by Marx de Silva

There is another face of futuristic-modern Iloilo that needs to be seen and appreciated not only by Ilonggos but by visitors and investors – the 35 billion investment – Megaworld’s Iloilo Business Park, a 72-hectare business township rising in Mandurriao District where modern lifestyle, recreation, leisure and tourism create a magnetizing appeal for the city. This is where we can find the first biggest convention center, lifestyle mall, the country’s longest shop-and-dine strip, international hotels, luxurious condominium towers, BPO office towers and iconic landmarks that will paint a highly-global destination for visitors and investors. The biggest Central Business District (CBD), an epicenter of finance and commerce will be established here to change the landscape of global business in Iloilo City.

There is no stopping the “city of love” from reaching the top, moving up to a higher ground of affluence and progress, open a gateway of exciting opportunities and making a new mark as a destination to perfectly live and invest. Experience Iloilo NOW through Iloilo Business Park!

Do you need to know more? Visit http://www.iloilobusinesspark.ph or call (033) 330-3465.

IBP Motion Graphics 2015: Visions for Iloilo City

For Iloilo City and its resilient people – the Ilonggos, their love for cultural identity and their beautiful hometown is heartfelt. The old Iloilo Airport in Mandurriao District served as an important gateway to the world and the heart of their sentiments, hopes and dreams. When the airport closed in 2007 to paved way for a much bigger and modern Iloilo International Airport in the Municipality of Cabatuan, happy memories still lingers in this vast area. When Megaworld Corporation acquired the 72-hectare property, they decided to sow the seeds of their dream in Iloilo City by transforming it into a life-larger, business-centered and tourism-friendly township capable of opening global opportunities for Ilonggos. This is where the STORY of Iloilo Business Park started and continues to shape-up that would bring Iloilo in the forefront of prominent developments and surging investment potential.

IT IS THE STORY OF VISION MADE INTO REALITY.  Megaworld – Iloilo Business Park 2015 Motion Graphic tells the story of the old Iloilo Airport from its legacy as the city’s doorway to the world and its “final happy landings,” until its recent transformation as a vibrant business, tourism and lifestyle township, developed by Megaworld Corporation to elevate Iloilo’s economic prominence and Ilonggos’ future Central Business District, a destination for bright opportunities slowly shaping a whole new history. “Live-work-play” in Western Visayas’ largest and most prominent highly-integrated township. Created to spread the great news, we hope you will enjoy our passion to inspire through this visual work of art.

Visit Iloilo Business Park official website: http://www.iloilobusinesspark.ph/, call us at (033) 330-3465 or see for yourself the lifestyle you desire at our IBP Showroom located at the ground floor of Richmonde Tower, 8 Enterprise Road, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Reflecting on Iloilo’s Historical Full Circle

History has always been set to repeat itself. Everything goes on a cycle as we traverse life. Life in Iloilo used to be simple yet beautiful, a once sleepy town turned into a bustling city in 1889 when Spain’s royal majesty Queen Ma. Cristina granted it a special title as the most loyal city during the Spanish colonization era in the Philippines. Moving forward, Iloilo became a bustling city, an international port for textile industry, an attractive destination, center of commerce and trade next to Manila. For the most part of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Iloilo dominated the trading business, commerce and reached its peak as an affluent metropolis in the Southern Philippines. They say, that a country or a city with a strong connection to its cultural past and heritage can easily attain social and economic maturity because the past bridges the present towards a future of synergistic richness and prosperity.

The stunning Iloilo River Esplanade, photo by Felipe Uygongco

Calle Real, one of the oldest business districts in the Philippines, photo by Felipe Uygongco

The Paraw Regatta Festival held every February is Southeast Asia’s oldest sailboat race, photo by Felipe Uygongco

The magnificent Molo Church and Plaza, photo by Felipe Uygongco

The world-famous Dinagyang Festival, Iloilo’s cultural spectacle performing at the Iloilo Convention Center during the APEC ministerial meetings this year, photos by Felipe Uygcongco

Angelia Ong, Miss Philippines Earth 2015 is a typical Ilongga wearing the world-famous Hablon gown designed by Totong Gellagarin, photo by Felipe Uygongco

An Ilongga exude the natural charisma and passion. Hablon gown designed by Totong Gellagarin and photo by Felipe Uygongco

Looking at the present rise of Iloilo City as an envisioned setting of a strong economic prominence in Western Visayas, investment potential is surging high that paved way for visitors and investors to consider the city as a future business destination. Iloilo remained adamant to preserve its glorious historical past visible through the city government’s several projects that rebuild, revive and promote major historical landmarks including the old Calle Real, one of the country’s oldest business districts. An Eco-centered project such as the Iloilo River Esplanade anchored in the tourism development aspect of the city is making a name as the next most-watched destinations in the Philippines. The people, the sweet-loving Ilonggos and the charming Ilonggas, women of the southern Philippines whose charisma defines passion, true hospitality and soft-spoken nature that creates a welcoming image for Iloilo as a destination of people-centered culture. Visiting the city will tempt you to sink your palate to the countless delicacies and favorite local cuisines such as Batchoy, Biscocho, Pancit Molo, Seafood dishes and a lot more, a long-history of culinary passion preserved through the Ilonggo tradition. Ilonggos are also known as the most colorful people in the Philippines, and probably in the world, visualized through its prominent Dinagyang Festival and Asia’s oldest sailboat race – the Paraw Regatta. Iloilo presents a deep-rooted devotion to the Roman Catholic and well-known as a faith-based pilgrimage city with the existence of centuries old churches in Jaro District celebrating the annual “Jaro Candelaria” and St. Anne Church in Molo District. Central Philippine University is Iloilo’s version of an old American Protestant-founded university emerging as a tourism destination. Prominent infrastructure projects are filling up the “visual imagery” of Iloilo as a city of expanding modern metropolis yet passionate to preserve its past and harmonize with its ecological aspect. Social, cultural, ecological and, yes, spiritual aspects of Iloilo pieces up a puzzle of a ONE beautiful, harmonious, prosperous and progress-driven metropolis, one of the most livable, “next wave” cities in the world.

The 3,700-seater Iloilo Convention Center, photo by Felipe Uygongco

Richmonde Hote Iloilo, the first luxury hotel that opened at Iloilo Business Park this year, photo by Felipe Uygongco

Visualizing Iloilo City on a higher ground of tangible changes, there is one “phenomenal” reason why this city magnetized a lot more investors and visitors to come in the past few years – Iloilo Business Park. Megaworld, the Philippines’ leading real estate developer and BPO office landlord realize the potential of Iloilo as a potential economic center and investment hub. The company invested P35 billion in a 72-hectare property in the old Iloilo Airport  located in Mandurriao District to developed the area into a highly-urbane township intended for business, lifestyle elevation, tourism and create a new destination for pleasure-seekers, tourists and people wanting to immerse themselves in the colorful yet passionate culture of Iloilo. Major shopping center, the longest dining strip in the country, international hotels, BPO office buildings, rising central business district, international-standard convention venue and various points of interests will emerge in this vast, all-expanding, and larger-than-life Megaworld township. Iloilo Business Park is the city’s high-life magnet and newest claim-to-fame in terms of investment credential.

The magnitude of progress, developments, cultural pride, dreams-turning-into-reality, and opening a doorway for global opportunities for this once sleepy yet beautiful city of “many wonders” are coming together, falling into place and rising up as ONE destination we can truly OWN. In the crystal clear waters of the Iloilo River, the present facet of the city’s modern image is reflected like those in the past. It is not about reclaiming a historical title as the original “Queen[’s] City” (owning it or embodying it), it has always been there etched in the deepest recesses of our cultural identity as Ilonggos. We are part of its pieced-up puzzle, full reflection of passion and splendor waiting to make the world see this city sparkle in full brilliance.  Iloilo steps up in full circle. Its history is destined to repeat itself through Iloilo Business Park… OUR OWN STORY to TELL soon.

Dreaming to invest in Iloilo City? call us at (033) 330-3465, visit us online at http://www.iloilobusinesspark.ph  or see for yourself the lifestyle you desire at our IBP Showroom located at the ground floor of Richmonde Tower, 8 Enterprise Road, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Live-Work-Play Defines IBP Lifestyle

Destined to create a lifestyle perspective of “live-work-play,” Megaworld in its 26 years of successful integration of vibrant townships in the Philippines brought their vision to Iloilo City, the next center point of business and investments in Western Visayas. Iloilo Business Park, a mixed-used commercial township rising in the 72 hectare expanding community where first-class lifestyle, commerce, leisure, tourism and landmark destinations creates synergistic developments for Iloilo City. This is where the best and world-class establishments will rise to pave way for significant changes in the Ilonggo lifestyle. Divided into four areas such as recreation, residential, BPO and commercial, Iloilo Business Park is a fully-integrated township where bustling activities and culture converge to define a brand new vision of life in the region.

Live in Privileged Lifestyle

Planned and inspired based on the high-end lifestyle of Megaworld’s internationally-known residential and condominium towers, Iloilo Business Park presented three faces of luxury which include the ultra-sleek contemporary lifestyle offered by One Madison Place, vintage-appeal living perspective showcased by Lafayette Park Square and The Palladium, embodying the mega-luxurious “sky garden lifestyle,” the tallest tower in the region with 22 floors. Simply live in an effervescent, interconnected luxuries and ecologically-centered community, Iloilo Business Park’s future residents and condo owners will experience the “only privileged lifestyle” incomparable to any other real estate developers in the country. Live graciously and enjoy the world-class amenities of condominium towers all in one serene community – traffic-free, spacious roads, bike lanes for physical activities and far away from pollution. Shopping malls, retail shops, longest dining strip, multinational companies, first-class hotels, a convention center and commercial district are just a stone’s throw away from where you are living. These vision sums up a real definition of a “privileged lifestyle” you can share with your loved ones, a future investment worth chasing.

Work Nearby

Megaworld is the biggest and most-recognized BPO Office Landlord in the Philippines by integrating all of these opportunities with their prestigious townships. Iloilo Business Park is envisioned to establish the largest and expanding BPO center, the largest IT Park and destination for bright opportunities in Western Visayas. In the next 10 years, Megaworld aim to provide more than 30,000 jobs and employment to local workforce in Iloilo City and nearby provinces. In 2014, BPO Buildings – One Global Center and Two Global Center were completed to hold the regional offices for call center companies Transcom Asia and US-based StarTek. Two more BPO Buildings are under construction to boost more jobs such as One Techno Place and Two Techno Place. The 9.2 hectare and 10 blocks Boutique Hotel and Commercial District is the location for the rising business setting that rapidly shapes the investment potential of the township. Richmonde Hotel Iloilo and Courtyard by Marriot are two prestigious hotels located in this area will support the tourism industry of the city. The 3,700-seater Iloilo Convention Center is also the center of future international events and conventions. Commercial lots owned by banks, financial institutions and private entrepreneurs will pave way for more businesses and financial opportunities, determining  the establishment of the next Central Business District (CBD) next to Makati and other major metropolises in the country. Professionals and executives living in the township’s residential area will find it easy to look for high-paying jobs nearby, emphasizing a modern metropolitan lifestyle, fully-integrated and pleasurable living experience.

Play, Enjoy and Experience Countless Pleasures

Tourism, commerce and culture are three aspects that Iloilo Business Park will elevate in terms of lifestyle for locals and visitors in Western Visayas. Beyond its economic importance, the township will open various leisure areas and landmark destinations that everybody will surely celebrate in the coming years as a fully-integrated community. Festive Walk Mall, the township’s very own shopping mall and commercial center will feature international known brands, boutiques, retails shops and bistros.Eight world-class cinemas, events center and food court will pamper various entertainment happenings and interests. The Mall Annex is the shopping center’s extended destination for onlookers and visitors. The longest shop-and-dine strip in the country – the Street of Festive Walk will feature the most popular names in the culinary and dining business. Either internationally-known or locally-conceptualized, various restaurants, bistros, coffee shops and food havens, all of these will converge in the Street of Festive Walk to create an international appeal showcasing Iloilo City as the “Mecca” of classy culinary destination in the region. Nightlife culture will never be the same again and will surely boost once these prominent establishments will soon open to the public. These commercial centers are set to have its soft opening and first phase completion in 2016. The biggest McDonald’s in Panay Island is located near the Festive Walk Mall.  Megaworld Boulevard which retained 30% of the old airport runway is not just the main highway interconnecting all the destinations in the township, but anchors the healthy lifestyle concept of Iloilo Business Park to its future residents by having its own Bike Lane and spacious areas for jogging, walking and biking. In fact, it is the lifetime venue for the Iloilo Bike Festival, an annual sports-related national event in the Philippines.

No other real estate projects and fully-integrated townships in Western Visayas that combines bustling business activities, supports the tourism industry, emphasize cultural destinations and promotes highly-anticipated leisure spots comes close to Iloilo Business Park. This is where the high-life begins and a lifestyle for the privileged few where global opportunities are shaped to bring the Ilonggo culture to the world.

Iloilo Business Park means passion to “live, work and play” in unlimited perspective, a definition of a modern, highly-elevated and global-concept of lifestyle in Western Visayas. Live, dream big and invest now!

For more information, call us at (033) 330-3465, visit us online at http://www.iloilobusinesspark.ph  or see for yourself the lifestyle you desire at our IBP Showroom located at the ground floor of Richmonde Tower, 8 Enterprise Road, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Bank Institutions Secured Lots in IBP’s CBD

Perspective Map of IBP’s Boutique Hotel and Commercial District

The present image of the Boutique Hotel and Commercial District as of October 2015 photo update. Photo by Marx de Silva

As Iloilo Business Park (IBP) continue to transform as the future Central Business District (CBD) in Western Visayas as an investment epicenter with its very own Boutique Hotel and Commercial District, multinational companies and investors keep coming in, giving interest in purchasing commercial lots in the township to secure promising business ventures in the near future.

Megaworld, IBP’s leading developer allocated nine hectares for the entire commercial district. There has been a strong demand from the financial and banking sector to secure a commercial lot in IBP due to its steadfast developments and value. In 2013, Megaworld started selling the lots at P47,000 per square meter. Presently, the commercial lots, which ranges from 611 sqm to 1,735 sqm, are now sold at P70,000 or a 49 percent increase from its old price a few years ago. This 2015, almost eighty percent of the commercial lots have already been sold to financial institutions, multinational companies and local enterprises. Financial institutions and banks are eyeing to establish regional headquarters in Iloilo Business Park to ensure their presence in the fast-growing economy of Iloilo City.

In the coming years, IBP’s Boutique Hotel and Commercial District will be the busiest and bustling area of the township due to massive investments coming in. Hotels, local enterprises, car and furniture companies are looking ahead to put up their own showrooms, regional headquarters and offices in IBP.

Presently, the two most prominent bank and financial institutions that successfully acquired lots in the Boutique Hotel and Commercial District are Union Bank and Metrobank. Here’s a close-up look on two of these two prominent companies:

Union Bank

Union Bank is a universal bank in the Philippines which provides a wide range of commercial, retail and corporate banking products and services. These products and services include loan and deposit products, cash management services, trust banking services, consumer finance, treasury activities and electronic banking. Major shareholders are Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Incorporated, Insular Life Assurance Company and the Social Security System.

It was recognized in 2002 & 2003 as among Asia’s best companies by Euromoney and Finance Asia. It is also the first to make it to the list of the world’s 25 soundest banks for four consecutive years by the Banker of London. It also won the Excellence in Credit Card Management Award in 2004.The bank is also listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange. As of December 20, 2010, Union Bank has a total market capitalization of P37.8 billion and share price is P59.00.

Union Bank initially stared out as Union Savings and Mortgage Bank. It changed its name to Union Bank of the Philippines 1981 and among its incorporators were the Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc., the Social Security System and the Insular Life Assurance Company. The bank acquired its commercial license in 1982. Ten years later, it was granted universal banking license by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Also in 1992, Union Bank was listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange under the stock symbol UBP.

In 1994, Union Bank acquired the International Corporate Bank (Interbank). On June 5, 2006, Union Bank purchased 98.84% of The International Exchange Bank (iBank), then the 12th largest private commercial bank, through a special block sale coursed at the Philippines Stock Exchange. With the acquisition, Union Bank became the 7th largest private domestic commercial bank.

Metrobank

Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company or commonly known as Metrobank is the second largest bank in the Philippines. As of November 29, 2010, Metrobank has a total market capitalization of P140.4 billion and its share price is P73.50.

In September 1962 by George Ty, together with businessmen Don Emilio Abello, Don Pio Pedroso and Placido Mapa, Sr. founded the Metrobank primarily to offer financial services to the Chinese-Filipino community. In 1963, the bank’s first branch opened in Divisoria, Manila. Four years later, the bank expanded outside Manila and opened their first provincial branch in Davao.

In 1970, Metrobank started expanding outside the Philippines. Its first international branch was in Taipei, Taiwan. In 1973, the bank established a banking office in Hong Kong and in 1975, another Metrobank branch opened in Guam, the first Philippine bank to open in American territory. Branches in Los Angeles and New York followed after. In 1977, the Central Bank authorized Metrobank Foreign Currency Deposit Unit (FCDU) operations.

On February 26, 1981, Metrobank decided to go public and list its common shares in the Makati Stock Exchange and Manila Stock Exchange under the stock symbol MBT. On August of the same year, the Philippine Central Bank granted Metrobank universal banking license. This allowed the bank to venture into non-banking related businesses.

In 1986, Metrobank established its own credit card company, Unibankard Corporation (now known as Metrobank Card Corporation. In 1988, it partnered with Japanese automotive manufacturer, Mitsui Corporation to establish the Toyota Motor Philippines.

In 1995, Metrobank achieved the milestone of being the first billion dollar bank with total capital of P22 billion. In 2001, Metrobank opened its first branch in Shanghai, China. Nine years later, Metropolitan Bank (China) was established with branches in Najing and Shanghai.

The Metrobank Group has a combined network of over 800 local and international branches/offices, remittance offices and subsidiaries worldwide. It has 557 domestic branches and 32 offices in New York, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul, Pusan, Guam, Taipei, Kaohsiung, Madrid, Barcelona, Vienna, Rome, Bologna, Milan, Singapore, Chicago, Hawaii, and Shanghai.

Fulfill your dreams at Iloilo Business Park. For more information on how to invest, call us at (033) 3303465 or visit our website at http://www.iloilobusinesspark.ph.

Investment of Dreams at Iloilo Business Park

The list goes on who deserves to invest and enjoy the high-end and desirable lifestyle in Iloilo Business Park (IBP). Cementing its claim as the largest township teeming with global opportunities and center of leisure in the region, Megaworld’s 72-hectare mixed-use commercial district is attracting not only Ilonggos but visitors and foreign investors to consider Iloilo as their future hometown of vibrant possibilities. As the real estate industry and local businesses here are propping up due our steadfast economy, no investors should take for granted these promising opportunities happening in IBP. For the OFW sector, this is the best time to come home and invest for a bright future. So, we list down possible investors who deserve to find a place, a space of great opportunity and a fulfillment of dreams in Iloilo Business Park:

Retiring soon? Choose Iloilo Business Park as your retirement destination. Photo from condo.ca

Thousands of Ilonggo OFWs are looking forward to invest their savings. Iloilo Business Park is the best investment option they have in their hometown Iloilo. Photo from kickerdaily.com

Dreaming to own a classy condominium? Head on to Iloilo Business Park see yourself their high-end residential towers such as One Madison Place, Lafayette Park Square and The Palladium. Photo from thefranzierteammortgages.com

1. OFW’s Timely Homecoming

Forget about the sleepy and slow-paced conservative era of Iloilo City as we enter a more vibrant and progressive economic period right now. There are thousands of Ilonggos currently working abroad and saving up for a better future of their families. Some of them have already planned their future investments and the best time to put those savings into “moving dreams” is right now in Iloilo Business Park, the center of astonishing developments and lifestyle elevation in Iloilo City. For retiring OFWs and “Balikbayans,” this is the best time to consider investing for a condominium units as IBP showcases various lifestyle concept with its three residential towers such as One Madison Place, Lafayette Park Square and The Palladium. IBP will be the midpoint of bustling activities, recreations and entertainment spots very soon. The Boutique Hotel and Commercial District is expected to become the epicenter of finance, business and commerce. Thus, securing a commercial lot for future business ventures will give OFWs the best investment they could have in their hometown Iloilo. Either to relax on an extended vacation, invest for their loved ones or pursue a business venture, securing a place in IBP gives you an edge and a priceless investment opportunity you can always count on for a lifetime. For OFWs, this is the perfect time for long homecoming with good reasons.

APEC 2015 Ministerial Meetings at Iloilo Convention Center. Photo from apec2015.ph

APEC 2015 at Iloilo Convention Center. Photo from dof.gov.ph

2. Best Investment for Real Investors

Iloilo City is now soaring high with swift developments as real estate companies are magnetized to invest in this side of the country, a trust given to Ilonggos and its promising city. Iloilo Business Park is a 72-hectare township that caters to commerce, leisure, recreation, lifestyle and countless opportunities, visible developments that pave way for a  strong investment potential and tourism. The Ilonggo business circle are looking ahead and securing a place in IBP to establish their share of the township’s promising success. By 2016, the township will open its own lifestyle mall – Festive Walk Mall with a Mall Annex and the longest shopping-and-dining avenue – Street of Festive Walk. Newly-opened Richmonde Hotel Iloilo and Courtyard by Marriot set for 2016 soft opening are creating a name for the city as the next hotspot for the hospitality industry and tourism. More BPO Buildings will be catering to multinational companies and will ensure that IBP is the next largest IT-BPO Park in the region. The Iloilo City Government is making sure there’s a strong business synergy can be felt locally by imposing a lower tax rate compared to other major cities in the country and advocating friendly assistance to investors in processing their business permits on time.  For local and foreign investors travelling around the country while looking for a strong economic area to invest, Iloilo City is now making a name for itself as both a perfect tourism destination and investment location. With the overwhelming success of the recent APEC ministerial meetings held at the Iloilo Convention Center, Iloilo City caught the eye of international investment circle in the Asia-Pacific Region. Gaining not just trust for its well-preserved cultural heritage and promising investment potential from investors but ensures  that Iloilo City and its biggest township – Iloilo Business Park is set to define a sustainable, progressive and business-friendly destination in the Philippines.

Envisioning to invest or choose Iloilo City as the new home for your dreams? Know more by calling us at (033) 330-3465 or visit us online at http://www.iloilobusinesspark.ph.

‘Selfie’ Tips you can do at IBP

Social media netizens are going crazy about the “selfie” phenomena these past years. In fact, the term itself has entered the list of modern-day dictionaries online. For most people around the world, “selfie” is the new revolutionary pop culture by photo-enthusiasts, posting it online in social networking sites using the smartphones is what makes a defining habit of this present generation. Using a “selfie stick” attached to smartphones for better proximity, “selfie 101” is far more exciting and trendy.

Iloilo Business Park, the 72-hectare business and lifestyle township developed by Megaworld in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, is the center of fast-paced infrastructure developments and economic activities. Sprawling landmarks and high-end establishments within the township arises to open a new gateway for Ilonggos to appreciate their city. With the APEC 2015 ministerial meetings happening in the Iloilo Convention Center, the 3,700 seating capacity, modern events venue inspired by Iloilo’s culture, Iloilo Business Park is at the center of international spotlight. Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, a first-class hotel recently opened along with two BPO buildings serving as operation sites for multinational BPO companies, exciting opportunities and leisure activities are propping up in Iloilo Business Park.  Shopping and dining destinations such as Festive Walk Mall and the 1.1 kilometer – Street of Festive Walk underway for completion next year, the culture of entertainment and pleasure becomes well-anticipated in Iloilo City. The biggest Boutique Hotel and Commercial District in Western Visayas is also taking shape in Iloilo Business Park, giving investors and visitors the edge to venture their businesses locally.

So if you’re on your way to Iloilo Business Park and you want to make it a habit to experience more often the high-end lifestyle, don’t limit yourself and do the “selfie” habit in this bustling business township. Here’s a list of the best locations to do your “selfie” craze:

1. Are you fond of signage and on-location “selfie” photo snaps revealing where you are without saying a word? Aside from “I am Iloilo” signage located in the Iloilo River Esplanade, head on to IBP McDonald’s where the township’s signage is located. It would surely give you an inspiring day as you share your photo online telling the world that you’re standing at the biggest Megaworld township ever.

2. Wanting to share the Ilonggo cultural pride to the world? Why don’t you try to drop by in front of the Iloilo Convention Center, the state-of-the-art events destination in the region and find your best “selfie” post. After all, you’ll truly appreciate yourself being a real Ilonggo by having this Dinagyang and Paraw Regatta-inspired structure in all its visual glory behind your photo.

3. Even on daytime or nighttime, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is visually impressive with its blue silhouette, giving visitors and onlookers the perfect “selfie” backdrop to beat. To feel more spectacular, just wait for the lights show of this stunning edifice at night and snap more “selfies” as you can.

4. Feeling like a true “seflie” health buff, just have a morning jog, walk or biking in the long-stretching Megaworld Boulevard to capture the impressive sights. There are strips of greens and impressive lampposts along the boulevard to make your photo-snapping exciting to the eyes. In the evening, it is even more impressive with the lights on at the township. You can choose which angle would suit your “seflie” mood.

5. BPO Buildings – One Global Center and Two Global Center are impressive landmarks where you can position your “selfie” snaps to look more visually appealing with your friends or acquaintances working in call centers located in these buildings.

These are just a few suggestions how to make your “seflie” guide thrilling in Iloilo Business Park. Try to be more creative and innovative by looking around to find the perfect “selfie” spots for you. In the future, more establishments will be completed to excite your “selfie” trip. Just come around, enjoy the scenery and have fun.

10 Best Reasons to Move Out of the Metro for a Stress-Free Lifestyle

Photo from Skyscrapercity.com

There’s more to lifestyle perspective in “megacities” than meets the eye. What makes bigger cities in the Philippines like Manila a notch higher than any other highly-urbane metropolises in the country is its economic dominance and “investment magnet” image. Megacities have established a reputation as melting pots of opportunities from business, finance, tourism and leisure that shine brighter than its stunning city-lights at night. But behind this fast-paced lifestyle, uprising cities in the provinces offer more than a promise of opportunities: the priceless advantage of a stress-free and pleasurable living.

Pleasurable, pollution-free and healthy lifestyle in Iloilo City, photo from iloilo.net.ph

1. Pollution

Everyone hates pollution in big cities. It’s absolutely suffocating, health hazzard and down-right deadly. But, don’t worry because you can always run away from this never-ending metropolitan syndrome. There is a huge difference in the air quality and pollution levels from big metro cities to out-of-town provinces. Just like Iloilo, this city has more air quality control than common metropolitan areas, signifying a more liveable atmosphere for people. Vehicular emissions are more controlled and minimal often emphasize by its environmental-centered community and a city government that promotes healthy lifestyle.

Photo from thenewstoday.info

Less traffic roads and streets in Iloilo City

2. Traffic

And while everybody hates a deadly pollution problem, people are also whining about megacities’ traffic. If you search http://www.google.com with the terms, “traffic in the Philippines”, nine (9) out of (10) of the search results will show unsatisfactory descriptions of the traffic in major metropolitan areas. Thinking of moving out from a big city? Well, Iloilo is the place for you with wide main roads and fast-moving highways.

Photo by Felipe Uycongco

Photo from pinasmuna.com

3. Overcrowding

Metro Manila is one major example of an over-crowding megacity where limited spaces are available for recreation and promote healthy lifestyle. Dense urban cities have a hard time managing their space, compared to the ratio of the people residing in such areas. If one million people are living within one small street side, that’s a lot of heads to turn to if you want to say “hi.” If you want to live in a place with enough people to get by, fly to Iloilo and leave your claustrophobic fears behind. In this city, more relaxing areas are open for public like the Iloilo River Esplanade, bike lanes along Diversion road and Iloilo Business Park.

Iloilo City Police Officers are always on the road to do their public service, photo from ilongo.weebly.com

4. Crime rate

It would be traumatic for someone to get robbed in the sidewalk or get mulled by a violent gang over a dark street. But in big metropolitan areas, it’s part of the normal day-to-day scene. Another data from Numbeo suggests that the safety one feels walking alone during night time drops to 23.71%. Try coming to Iloilo and see all the bright lamp posts from one street to the next, ensuring your safety even after the daylight hours. Iloilo City is noted for being one of the world’s safest place to live with less number of crimes recorded every year.

Stress-free city streets and typical public transportation vehicles in Iloilo City, photo from projectiloilo.com

5. Public transportation and driving

Megacities in the Philippines tend to get confusing and crowded with the existence of public utility and private vehicles filling up the roads. Traffic system in these major cities is constantly innovating to maintain smooth flow such as color coding and number coding of vehicles.  Streets are full of so-called “public utility vehicles” for any distances and people moving to their destinations in these huge cities are always in a hurry that often resulted to a congested atmosphere. Though megacities have wide roads and highways, these are not spared from the non-stop influx of vehicles of both public and private. Iloilo is still a rising megacity, its roads and highways are still sparred from traffic congestion. To create consistency, road widening projects are ongoing and well-managed traffic controls are being implemented by the city givernment to maintain a stress-free ambiance for motorists and vehicles.

 

Expanding IT-BPO industry in Iloilo City, photo from panaynewsphilippines.com

6. Affordable Cost of living in out-of-town provinces

Living in major metropolitan cities can be a rewarding lifestyle perspective because you have the best access to a lot of things: amenities and opportunities. But there’s always a catch living in big cities: the cost of living. According to Numbeo.com, 31.1% is spend on average monthly house or apartment rent and 28.8% is spend on food and groceries for a resident in a big city based on distribution of expenses statistical model. If this is the case, the slightly minimal low cost of living in the provinces in the Philippines could directly affect the expenses of a resident compare to those living in megacities. Since Iloilo City is experiencing a booming economy and influx of investments, multinational companies are opening jobs that offer higher salary close to other megacities like Manila or Cebu. Combined with the slightly low cost of living in Iloilo and better salary compensation from companies, this city could be an employment destination in the future.

Photo from iloilo-travel-guide.blogspot.com

Weekend cultural and special events at Calle Real, Photo from iloilo.net.ph

Zumba session and activities at Iloilo River Esplanade, Photo from Skycraperscity.com

The annual Iloilo Bike Festival in Iloilo Business Park, Photo from Iloilo.net.ph

7. Accessibility to modern amenities in Iloilo

Everything is within your reach in big cities when it comes to business opportunities, entertainment and leisure. Iloilo City is on fast-paced infrastructure developments from roads, shopping malls, business and having a new convention center which are all accessible to locals. To counter the stressful lifestyle in the metropolis, wellness centers and public parks hold wellness programs or activities. On Sundays, the city’s old business center, Calle Real where heritage buildings are being rebuilt to its original form is usually closed for public transportation and holds Zumba sessions, cultural shows and local concerts to emphasize significant weekend attraction to locals.  The city government is also establishing wellness-inspired recreation areas. One of them is the long-stretching Iloilo River Esplanade where wellness activities often attracts passersby, giving a boost both on its economy, tourism and additional modern amenities.

Iloilo River Esplanade, Photos by Felipe Uycongco

8. Appreciation of Nature

Looking for greens and bio-diversity in major cities? Crammed and congested it may seem to be but major cities are innovating to counter stressful lifestyle and avert the effects of pollution. High-end malls and shopping centers feature pocket gardens and trees within commercial areas. Bistros and restaurants are placed in open spaces or along the seashore to appreciate nature. Wellness activities are encouraged in open parks. Moving away from megacities, Iloilo City have the Iloilo River Esplanade with a glimpse of a protected bio-diversity, wide-roads with bike lanes for health buffs, and consistent wellness activities in public parks, a convergence of a nature-centered expanding metropolis with uprising progress.

9. Proper Sanitation

Most megacities have similar problems when it comes to their garbage accumulation and sanitation issues. Every day, tons of garbage are collected in the city to minimize pollution. The average garbage collected in most megacities is high compared to out-of-town provinces. Megacities have serious garbage problems due to lack of proper dumpsites. Proper sanitation is worse and public toilets are congested compared with those in provinces due to consistent influx and daily activities of people. Try visiting Iloilo and you’ll see minimal trash problems and public toilets are less congested. The city government of Iloilo is doing its best to counter the problems of garbage, littering and push for more clean-up drive projects in local communities.

Iloilo Floodway Project in Jaro District, photo from livefromiloilo.wordpress.com

10. Less flood levels

Probably one of the most visible dilemmas in major cities especially in the Philippines, is the unstoppable flooding during rainy season. Big metropolitan cities suffer a lot and cause delays such as suspension of work and classes in schools during typhoon. A lot of investment and business opportunities are lost for multinational companies, government services are delayed and millions of calamity funds from the city’s tax are spend to fix infrastructure damages and support victims of flooding. Flood levels in Iloilo have been minimized over the years because of a major flood control project centered in Jaro district. The local government is also pursuing an improved drainage system project within the city.

The surging investment and business opportunities in the country has long been potentially presented by megacities but less popular for their beneficial lifestyle and stress-free elements that can be seen in provinces. Iloilo City’s relentless rise as the next economic center point in the Visayas may prove as a game-changing concept of business mixed with desirable lifestyle for investors, visitors and its locals. The infrastructure and economic developments are elevating but the vision of ecological conservation is prominently emphasized. Leading real estate company, Megaworld Corporation has long seen this unique potential in Iloilo City by transforming the 72-hectare old Iloilo Airport in Mandurriao district into a mixed-used development community, a township solely dedicated for business and high-end leisure facilities known as Iloilo Business Park.

Who said megacities have everything it has to offer in determining its prominence and promising opportunities? Think about another concept of it: a city of greens and swift infrastructure expansion leaping a notch higher in defining a better quality of life.

8 Investment Advantages in Iloilo Business Park

The Megaworld Boulevard – long-stretching, wide road with bike lanes on the side (Sept. 2015 photo update)

Iloilo Business Park (IBP) is moving forward to become the biggest Central Business District (CBD) in Western Visayas. With the 72-hectare township established by Megaworld Corporation in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, IBP is now home to the most promising landmarks and leisure hub such as the Iloilo Convention Center, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, BPO buildings – One Global Center and Two Global Center. A shopping mall, longest shopping and dining strip in the country, upcoming international hotel and more BPO buildings are being constructed to complete the vibrant township. Infrastructure and residential developments are booming left and right in IBP, more investors are looking at the global potential of its very own Boutique Hotel and Commercial District.

Like an investment magnet, IBP is steadfast in becoming the next most-watched Central Business District in the region and the whole Visayas area. Here are 8 big reasons why investing for IBP’s commercial lots, condominiums and office spaces are definitely worth it:

Location is the key

Iloilo Business Park is basically located in the old location of Iloilo Airport, the 72-hectare township is teeming with great opportunities as the most complete commercial area. Megaworld Boulevard, its main highway retained 30% of the old airport runway that stretches to both ends of the township. With the APEC 2015 ministerial meetings coming to an end this October 6, visitors and investors foresee the township as the next epicenter of finance, commercial and leisure activities. Multinational companies and firms see IBP as their next location for regional headquarters and offices.

BPO Building – Two Global Center is presently the office and operation site of BPO Company StarTek (Sept. 2015 photo update)

Accessibility is conducive

Getting to work, live a healthy lifestyle and going around the township is very easy in Iloilo Business Park with wide roads along the Megaworld Boulevard and open spaces between the buildings. The township is has less traffic and boosts with serene ambiance, making it easy for cars and motorists to traverse the Megaworld Boulevard.

One Global Center – Transcom Iloilo Office and Operation Site (Sept. 2015 photo update)

Safety and Security is guaranteed

Leave your worries behind once you step inside Iloilo Business Park because security personnel are moving round-the-clock. Well-lighted highways and corners in IBP with a lot of visual scenery at night will make you feel safe and secured. Its residential towers are also well-guarded that provides access to nearby establishments and leisure spots.

Sept. 2015 construction update of the Street of Festive Walk set for 2016 target completion

Wise Township Planning

No need to bring a pair of slippers or rain boots to work because IBP is flood free, boosts with wide roads, open spaces and parking areas for residents and visitors. IBP have complete township amenities and establishments from shopping centers like Festive Walk Mall, Street of Festive Walk to boutique hotels like Richmonde Hotel Iloilo and Courtyard by Marriot. Call center companies hold their offices and operation sites in nearby BPO buildings, making it accessible for workers and employees who live nearby the township.

Round the Clock Power

Power interruptions aren’t a problem in IBP because buildings are supplied with backup power. This is highly favorable especially to BPO companies since they operate 24/7. Having no electricity and active systems for just a few hours can cost the company thousands of dollars.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is a first-class hotel and Richmonde Tower holds various offices for IBP and BPO company Reed Elsevier (Sept. 2015 photo update)

More Options

Iloilo Business Park provides more options for potential investors and businesses to prop up because of accessibility, more office spaces and commercial lots to offer especially in the Boutique Hotel and Commercial District.

Iloilo Convention Center is a world-class convention venue that can hold up to 3,700 audience, is now the venue for APEC ministerial meetings from Sept. 21 – Oct. 6 (Sept. 2015 photo update)

Better Tax Rate and Efficient City Government

The City Government of Iloilo has been awarded many times for being efficient in terms of public governance and transparency. They also elevate their standard in terms of processing for business permits and assistance for business consultancy. Also, the city’s tax rate is far lower than most major metropolises in the country including Metro Manila. They also work hand-in-hand with investors especially with Iloilo Business Park to attract investors and open better opportunities for the local workforce and professionals, making the township a very competitive place for business.

Serenity and Appeal of Greens

Iloilo Business Park is an ecologically-centered and sustainable close-to-nature township where strips of greens along the Megaworld Boulevard create visual appeal to visitors and commuters. IBP have open spaces, bike lanes and wide roads with stripes of green where people can do healthy activities, have picnic and meet acquaintances. The Street of Festive Walk is a long-stretching shopping and dining destination, an open al fresco place where visitors and residents can enjoy without worrying about pollution. The Palladium, IBP’s tallest condominium tower have four sky gardens that replicates real rain forests.

Iloilo Business Park is truly an ideal place to invest in. With an environment that balances work with leisure, it’s not just another financial district on the rise. It’s a booming business oasis that will elevate the Ilonggos’ lifestyle.

Looking for a commercial lot, office space or classy condominiums in IBP? Contact us now and we’ll help you find the perfect choice for your desired lifestyle and business ventures. Call us at (033) 330-3462-65 or visit us in our showroom at the ground level of Richmonde Tower, 8 Enterprise Road, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. For online, visit us at http://www.iloilobusinesspark.ph.