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I S S U E 02 | 2 0 1 5
Live Life
To The Fullest In Your
Dream
Community
Contents
3
UP & RISING
A look at Avida’s latest developments
7
TRICKS FOR TIDYING UP
Initiative and teamwork get the job done
8
10
12
14
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
Adolf & Enchie’s Zen Household
DYNAMIC DUO Welcome to ‘Hotel Teodoro’
WORLD-CLASS PINOY
Soaring High with Capt. Marc Cruz
THE HEART OF HOSPITALITY
Create a welcoming atmosphere for your
visitors though a few thoughtful gestures
within your home
15
16
PARTY ON!
Decorating tricks that will bring your event to
a whole new level
SANCTUARY IN THE METRO SOUTH
Let Avida fulfill your dream of getting inspired,
feeling secured, and letting your passion
flourish in your very own community
19
DREAM COMMUNITY
Find out why more and more people are
choosing Avida
20
BOLD STROKES, MODEST SPACE
How to give compact space a big personality
22
24
5 ESSENTIALS FOR A
HARMONIOUS LIFE
25
INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE IN
YOUR 20S, WHY NOT?
26
30
31
32
CITY ESCAPES
ABOUT THE COVER
I S S U E 02 | 2 0 1 5
Live Life
To The Fullest In Your
Dream
Community
We all have our individual pursuits of finding that
place ‘where we belong’. It can mean a source of
peace of mind, a group of individuals we share the
same passion with, or unlocking a talent that has
been with us all along. For the past 25 years, Avida
has been building communities, transforming lives,
and establishing lasting relationships inspired
by a clear and sincere commitment. This issue
attempts to encapsulate what makes Avida an
ideal community to live in, a place where a person’s
character is developed and great possibilities bloom.
We hope you get inspired and find your happy place
as you flip through these pages! 8 DECORS FOR A HAPPY
HOUSEHOLD
Deck the halls with all things handy
Simple tips to have a clutter- and stress-free
life
Now is the perfect time to jump-start your
property investment road map
Experience the best of Makati, Cavite,
Pampanga, and Davao
HEALTH & FAMILIES
Are hugs healthy for you?
ENTERTAINMENT
What’s hot?
NEWS
What’s going on in the Avida Community?
EDITOR'S NOTE
A development truly comes to life when the people who reside in it live in peace
and harmony. After all, a community is an entire ecosystem based on an individual’s
connections to his surroundings. While interpersonal relations sometimes take the
backseat to meet the demands of an increasingly fast-paced world, it is essential to
have a place to come home to, where one can relax and enjoy the company of family and
friends, within and beyond the physical space.
In this issue, we see that relationships are built and nurtured in an environment
where people feel safe, secure and inspired to explore life’s possibilities. As such,
Avida develops integrated communities that create bigger and better lifestyle
opportunities for more Filipinos, keeping in mind the legacy that it has built
We'd love
for 25 years. Inspired by its customers, Avida will continue to provide a
to
hear
from you!
complete community experience for all and reach even greater heights in
Share
us
your
thoughts
the years to come.
on this issue by sending
Let’s all look forward to more inspiring times ahead!
us an email at
brand@avidaland.com
THE EDITORIAL TEAM
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Tess Tatco
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Patricia Abacan
EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS
Bing Gumboc
Anne Baylon-Jara
Nancy Delegencia
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Mayee Albotra
Camila Benipayo
GRAPHIC ARTIST
Glenn Camson
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emmanuel Cayanga, Annie
Bernardo, Excel Dyquiangco,
Beam Mariano, Ma. Glaiza Lee,
Bonna Villagen, Joan Mae Barredo
909 40th Street North Bonifacio Triangle,
Bonifacio Global City 1634 Taguig City
TRUNK LINE: (02) 988 2111 | HOTLINE : (02) 848-5200
www.avidaland.com
avidalandph
avidaofficial
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
FRESH & FABULOUS START
Get ready to bloom in your very own home at Avida Towers Cloverleaf
and
RISING
D
esigned to complement your urban lifestyle,
Avida Towers Cloverleaf is an ideal
community that defines city living with a
complete range of recreational facilities perfect to
create precious family moments.
The new Avida Towers Cloverleaf will be a
three-tower development offering 2-bedroom
and 3-bedroom units at 52 square meters
and 61 square meters respectively, designed
for the needs of newlyweds and growing
families. Thoughtfully designed to provide
each member of the family their own personal
space within the unit, the 2-bedroom unit will
have a separate laundry area and a multipassenger toilet and bath that will allow
simultaneous use of the shower area and toilet
by different members of the family, thereby
saving time for family members with similar
schedules during the day.
Part of the project’s strong attraction
will be its convenience and connectivity.
Cloverleaf’s location connects you to the entire
Metro via Skyway Stage 3, NLEX, as well
as public transportation such as the LRT, aptly
making it the northern gateway to Metro Manila.
A big lifestyle in a compact community in
Cloverleaf, it’s easy with 11 hectares of mixeduse offerings that include shopping centers,
gastropubs, and a hospital conveniently located
within the estate–everyday essentials all at your
fingertips.
Going home to Cloverleaf lets you escape from
the hurly-burly of the city life. Take a retreat and
stroll around the district filled with lush greenery
and beautiful landscapes.
At Avida Towers Cloverleaf, you get to live a
big and exciting life, coupled with a fresh and
vibrant experience.
LEAD AN EDGY LIFESTYLE
Life and lights collide at Avida Towers Turf BGC
E
and
RISING
njoy the unparalleled convenience of having
topnotch schools, gourmet restaurants,
trendsetting shops, commercial establishments,
and leisure activities right at your doorstep. At Avida
Towers Turf BGC, you can make the most of your time,
energy, and resources, and live the luxurious lifestyle
that you deserve.
Rising soon is Avida's last residential condominium in
the heart of Bonifacio Global City. With new 3-bedroom
offerings efficiently designed to maximize space as well
as fewer units per floor, your family will have more than
enough room and privacy to live and grow.
Spend quality time and create wonderful memories
with friends and loved ones at the multipurpose
clubhouse, lap pool, and kiddie pool. Rest with ease
because you know you’re always safe and sound with
24-hour security services, two fire exits per floor,
100% backup power for common areas with allocated
emergency load for residential units, heat and fire
detection, and alarm and sprinkler system.
Avida Towers Turf BGC is situated at the former
location of Mercato Centrale at the Active North side
of BGC. Avida Towers Turf BGC will place you just
a short walk away from Kidzania, Turf BGC football
field, S&R, St. Luke's Medical Center and the offices
along 32nd Street, and the rest of BGC.
A LIFE OF HARMONY
BEGINS HERE
Rest easy knowing that Avida Parkfield
Settings Pulilan gives you a home you deserve
W
and
RISING
ith generously spaced pocket
parks and open spaces,
there’s more opportunity to
converge, connect, and create the feeling
of having your very own community
within the community, giving you the
privacy you deserve. Avida Parkfield
Settings Pulilan offers intuitively
designed and planned homes that allow
residents to enjoy sustainable and
stress-free contemporary living.
Refreshing. Convenient. Private. At
Avida Parkfield Settings Pulilan, residents
get to enjoy 22 hectares of master
planned urban convenience with natureinspired amenities, providing a modern
and peaceful environment. From building
administration and maintenance of the
entire development, you’re assured of
quality service, assistance, and expertise
that are sure to keep your investment
at superb state. Extensive technical
diligence and sound engineering were
practiced to ensure that the design
and building process of every home is
intuitive, well-made, and flood-free. Live
peacefully and sleep soundly knowing
that there is 24-hour roving security.
With a strong cultural heritage, you
can expect a community that’s wellrounded and bustling with opportunity.
Located along Calle Rizal (Old Cagayan
Valley Road), Avida Parkfield Settings
Pulilan is right in the middle of Plaridel
and Baliuag, both only a few minutes
away from the NLEX via the Sta. Rita
and Balagtas exits respectively.
Avida Parkfield Settings Pulilan
also offers an array of amenities and
features in a 1.5-hectare area that
allows residents to celebrate all of life’s
moments - whether you want to work
out, play games, or simply enjoy life’s
precious milestones with family and
friends at the clubhouse, basketball
court, swimming pool, and kiddie pool.
Fast becoming an urban and
institutional growth center, thrive
in a community that helps personal
relationships flourish and where a
harmonious life begins.
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
ARTIST'S PERSPECTIVE
STAYCATION IN THE SOUTH
Serin East Tagaytay showcases the quaint yet refreshing side
of the holiday town south of Manila
and
RISING
D
wellers and vacationers find comfort in
Tagaytay’s tight-knit culture, evident in the
overall warmth of the communities. Serin East
Tagaytay, Avida's latest residential development here
makes it possible for residents and guests to enjoy a
new side of the city as a contemporary haven with a
laidback feel.
Serin East Tagaytay captures the charming and
relaxing atmosphere of its location. It is a countryside
haven, radiating rustic beauty that is ideal for gracious
living. Strategically located within close proximity to
the city, Serin East stands out as the ideal vacation
home as it reflects the timeless allure of the city while
blending the comforts of modern lifestyle.
Bursting with abundant greenery, wide-open
spaces, and modern features, Serin East is a refreshing
getaway and home for those who seek a peaceful living
experience. Its clubhouse is surrounded by manicured
lawns while pocket gardens inspire both fitness and
reflection. Idle days can be spent lounging by its resorttype dipping pool as well.
Ayala Malls Serin, a newly-opened commercial
development just a few meters from Serin East, will
bring the convenience of modern living closer to the
community with a wide range of dining, shopping, and
entertainment choices.
Serin East Tagaytay will rise along the diversion road
connecting the Aguinaldo Highway and the TagaytayNasugbu Highway. Despite the country appeal of the
property, calling it home doesn’t necessarily mean
living in isolation because it is actually just an hourand-a-half drive from Manila and is a gateway to other
travel destinations such as Batangas, Cavite, and
Laguna. Notwithstanding, its close proximity to the
Metro.
Serin East Tagaytay melds idyllic charm and
effortless aesthetics into one conveniently chic
residential site offering supreme comfort and pure
pleasure in a modern setting.
Live everyday like a vacation and turn your
favorite weekend escape into a permanent abode in
picturesque Tagaytay.
tricks for
TIDYINGUP
Initiative and teamwork get the job done.
by beam mariano
Embracing the art of decluttering on a daily basis, especially if done with your
loved ones, will not only give you an organized space but will also give you room
for new and more important things in your life. Here are a few tips to make your
home clutter-free.
1
2
3
Decide to declutter. The first step to decluttering is choosing to
do so. Decluttering is a personal choice and without this decision, all the
organizing tips in the world will be futile. Your friends can be a support
group who may even be willing to participate during the cleaning up. They
will after all be deserving recipients of some of the items you choose to
part with. Having a second opinion by having your loved ones over in an afternoon
of tidying up can help in disposing of items that have emotional value – like old
clothes, unused gifts, or old love letters and pictures.
• Advertise. Use your community bulletin
board. Have the kids make flyers to insert in the
local mailboxes, which is great exercise! Go on
Facebook and other social networking sites and
invite your friends to come over to what should
be promoted like a great party or a great way to
spend the weekend.
Think of who you are going to
donate a certain item to before
you put an item into this box.
Think of who may need it most.
There are plenty of charitable
organizations that you can donate
to. Go online to find a cause or take a trip to your
local barangay office and they’ll be more than
happy to point you to the right direction. A fun idea
would be to visit a provincial church to give your
“Donate Box” the next time you take the family out
to the beach, to give your trip a “spiritual” reward.
DONATE
RELOCATE
Stage the decluttering exercise. Decluttering can
be emotionally overwhelming, so imagine if you have an entire
condominium to organize. Pick where to start and allocate a specific
amount of time to clean up. The area you select must be arranged by
the time the alarm goes off, so you definitely cannot waste a lot of time
reminiscing the memories of everything you pick up, or arguing over whether
something will be needed in the future or not.
Make it a social event.
Call your family-or friends-over to
declutter. Play energetic, upbeat music in the background and ensure a
steady supply of snacks and cold drinks. Put out four boxes labeled: Sell,
Donate, Relocate, and Trash.
If your family or friends are
involved, assign someone to
quickly snap a picture of the items
for sale, Google a reasonable
price and put them up in any
of the popular buy-and-sell
websites. The proceeds can go to the next family
outing or barkada gimmick, or it can be used to
purchase something your place needs like a new
air conditioner. If the family is involved, it would
be a great idea to give the family member who
donated the most to the “Sell Box” a special prize
in recognition of his sacrifice. You can even give
little medals to kids that they can display proudly
in their rooms or doors that say “Most Organized,”
“Most Charitable,” “Cleanest Room” or, over time,
“Most Consistent.” You can also organize the
SELL
some collectibles. Remember you’re here to declutter.
So be prepared to give things away at a “friendly”
price. The friendship you build with your neighbors in
the process is worth more than the item you sold.
ultimate family bonding weekend by organizing
a garage sale! Everyone has to be involved in this
activity. A few tips:
• Timing is everything. Don’t hold a garage sale
when everyone leaves for summer break or during
long holidays. It might also be a creative exercise
to make your garage sale booth display thematic.
For example, the family could dress in festive,
flowery outfits during a summer sale and give a
free ice cold drink for every purchase you make.
Not only will you bond with your family, you’ll find
yourselves building a community of neighbors.
• Price things to sell. Don’t sell things at
acquisition cost unless you’re 100% sure that the
price of the item appreciates such as in the case of
This box is for items that literally
need relocation – and that can mean
a lot of things: important papers
that need to be stored elsewhere,
batteries, small knickknacks or
items that need repair.
• Make sure that what you throw
will really be disposed of. And
once it is in the “Trash Box,”
commit to it – let it go and don’t
start fishing out of the box later
because of misguided sentiment.
Segregate if possible. If you’re
throwing away documents that carry your bank
account numbers, government ID numbers or
even your signature, shred them first to prevent
identity theft.
TRASH
• Pat yourself (and your loved ones) on the back.
When the time is up, stop and square away your
bins. You had a goal, you had a time limit. Did you
meet it? Is there something lacking or something
that needs to be changed? Bask in whatever level
of accomplishment you feel you’ve attained –
there’s always room for improvement after all.
(Maybe in the next cycle?)
• Do it regularly. The art of decluttering is
best done in a daily basis with a support group.
Challenge the family to a 30-minute plan
every day to sort out items. Keep in mind the
mantra, “When in doubt, throw it out,” to make
sure all unneccessay items don’t end up in an
unmanageable pile ever again.
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
ADOLF & ENCHIE’S
ZEN HOUSEHOLD
After a decade of renting and searching, the Cruz family
finally found the place to call home.
by emmanuel cayanga • photos by jar concengco
W
hen Adolf and Enchie Cruz invited their family and
friends to come over to their two-bedroom unit at
Avida Towers New Manila in Quezon City, they were
uncertain of whether or not all of their guests could be
accommodated.
To their surprise, all 20 visitors had “their own corner”
inside the 51-square-meter unit, which the couple and
their sons Frankie and Mikee moved into in March. “We weren’t
cramped; it was so cozy,” Enchie, a 36-year-old stay-at-home
mom, recalled. “In fact, we were able to have a jazz dance ala
Patrick Swayze.”
In 2012, Adolf and Enchie Cruz decided to buy their own house
as the money they were paying for rentals wasn’t going anywhere.
Before the big move, they’ve rented condominium units, apartments,
and a bungalow, costing them as much as P17,000 monthly.
Then undecided, Adolf, a 37-year-old human resources
employee at a global law firm in Makati City, was told by a friend
to look into property developers, especially those that have a
good track record and positive feedback from its clients. Through
research and word of mouth, the couple found these two qualities
in Avida, Ayala Land Inc.’s subsidiary. Flashback to Christmas Eve
of 2012, Adolf gifted Enchie with a piece of paper confirming the
sale of the unit, moving his oblivious wife to tears.
The family has adjusted well to their new minimalist and Zeninspired home, which has lightings that evoke romanticism at
night. Enchie spends most of her time in the kitchen either baking
specialty loaf breads or preparing her sumptuous picadillo. Adolf,
on the other hand, relaxes on the living room after a hard day’s
work by playing jazz on his guitar. On weekends, the family gathers
in the living room playing their favorite PlayStation 4 games.
What sets Adolf's and Enchie’s room apart from other master’s
bedrooms in most homes is that theirs is without any gadget
or home entertainment system. Adolf said that it was really a
conscious decision for them so that they can fully relax and have
the opportunity to talk with each other, undisrupted by gadgets.
Name
Adolf and Enchie Cruz,
sons Frankie, 11 and Mikee, 3
Location Avida Towers New Manila
Size 51 square meters
MONTHS lived in Eight
Design Inspiration
We saw a lot of minimalist and
Zen-inspired stuff on Pinterest
but they were all dark wood and
we didn’t like that. So we had to
design this from scratch and sit
down with the interior designer,
who helped conceptualize
according to our taste.
Part of the house that was most
challenging to put up
The kitchen. The idea was
Enchie should feel that it’s hers;
that everything she felt she
needed in a kitchen is there—a
small oven, good cooktop,
storage for her ingredients and
tools for baking and cooking.
Home sourcing
The cabinets were made by
Unisystems. The couch’s from
Our Home; beds are from
Marikina Riverbanks; and the
bistro chairs are from S&R.
Family and friends’ thoughts
They realized that a
condominium unit can have the
same homey feel that you’d get
in a regular house. They’re very
traditional. We’re the only ones
living in a condominium.
Favorite stuff
Enchie: My kitchen stuff and the
PlayStation 4.
Adolf: My jazz guitar, a gift from
my dad in 2001. It’s really close
to my heart because my dad,
who passed away in 2008, is
my biggest hero.
Next project
The bathroom. We’ll install a top
cabinet. The kids’ room will be
Frankie and Mikee’s project. We
want them to make the choice
and take ownership of their
room. Whatever they want, we’ll
support them.
Advice to newbies
Do your research. Look for a
developer that has a good track
record and positive feedback
from clients, such as friends or
friends of friends. That’s how
you’ll find your dream condo.
Once you bought the unit, you
really have to be involved in
designing your dream home.
The reason we love this place
is because we did the painting
on our own. It wasn’t easy but
it was good bonding time for
everybody. It’s also cost-efficient.
DYNAMIC DUO
WELCOME TO
‘HOTEL TEODORO’
Jay and Marian Teodoro wanted their home to have the
hotel feel to provide them respite from a hard day’s work
by emmanuel cayanga • photos by martin san diego
T
he everyday hustle and bustle of the metro can really get
to one’s nerves that you’d give almost anything just to get
a good night’s sleep, such as one you’d get from a hotel.
Hence, when Jay and Marian Teodoro started to spruce up
their 35-square-meter one-bedroom unit at Avida Towers
Alabang, they knew they had to make their space feel like a
hotel room—or close to it.
Marian said that she and her husband of three years reached such
a decision because they wanted to come home to a place where they
would feel is their “reward from a hard day’s work.”
And while they wanted to have hotel-like amenities in their
humble abode, the couple said maintaining the unit where they
have been staying for three months now should be kept to a
minimum since both of them are busy with their careers. The
31-year-old Marian works as an IT programmer in Ortigas, while
her 30-year-old husband Jay helps manage their family-owned
consumer goods distribution business in Las Piñas.
It was also the reason why they decided to purchase a
condominium unit — it was practical and required little cleaning time
from a couple who is out of their home for at most 15 hours a day.
The couple shares their minimalist modern home with their oneyear-old son Vito Miguel and househelp Merly. On weekends, Jay
can be found in the kitchen preparing the family cuisines, while
Marian would be in their bedroom teaching her son the alphabet
and how to count. They would later spend the day watching
television in the living room, cozy in their L-shaped couch.
While Jay and Marian are still a young couple, it is worth noting
that this early on in their marriage they have already bought with
their own sweat and tears a property which they can be proud of.
The two credit their achievement to the timeline they have created
for themselves, even before they were married.
With the possibility of having more kids, the couple is also
looking at a bigger space for their soon-to-be bigger family at
another Ayala Land property—NUVALI in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.
Name: Jay and Marian Teodoro,
and one-year-old son Miggy
Location: Avida Towers Alabang
Size: 35 square meters
Months lived in: Three
DESIGN INSPIRATION It’s a
combination of what we
saw in home magazines, our
own inputs and those of our
architect friend. The dominant
colors to achieve the simple,
modern look are brown, black,
and white. Green was used as
an accent color because it’s a
refreshing sight. We used warm
white lighting to achieve a cozy
feel.
PART OF THE HOUSE THAT WAS MOST
CHALLENGING TO PUT UP: The kitchen
nook because it occupies a large
area. It was our priority to make
it as presentable as possible
because Jay loves to cook. It’s
really his place. Also, it must
have a large storage area to
keep the kitchen utensils so that
it wouldn’t be unsightly. We also
used the back end corner of the
counter as shoe storage.
HOME SOURCING: The ottoman’s
from Our Home, dining set’s
from Wilcon, appliances from
Western and Abenson, and
knickknacks from True Value.
The queen-sized bed and bed
frame were customized by a
local upholstery shop in Las
Piñas.
THOUGHTS FROM FAMILY: They
loved it. They were happy and
surprised that we were able to
pull it off. It’s the fruit of our
labor. In fact, they got jealous
and bought for themselves
a unit in another Ayala Land
property.
FAVORITE PIECE: The ottoman
because it’s very functional and
a space saver. It’s where we place
our bags and store home items,
such as the vacuum cleaner.
NEXT PROJECT: We’d like to install
a plantation shutter just as
added security for Miggy.
ADVICE TO NEWBIES: It’s important
to have a timeline and plan.
Know your location well and the
property developer. We chose
this property in this side of the
Metro because it’s laidback and
relaxing.
WORLDCLASS
PINOY
SOARING HIGH
When he’s not thinking about home, Capt. Marc Cruz takes
pride in flying foreign tourists to one of the most beautiful
islands in the Philippines.
by annie bernardo • photos by jar concengco
“W
e give our passengers a VIP
treatment,” guaranteed this
35-year-old pilot for Island
Transvoyager Inc. (ITI), a Filipinoowned regional airline company
that has daily flights to El Nido,
Palawan. Most tourists, Capt. Marc
Cruz said, are foreigners, usually Japanese and
Koreans who are on a honeymoon. Now that it’s
summertime in Europe, European tourists are
flocking as well.
On a regular day, each pilot is given two flights or
four legs daily. During the peak season, he operates
four to five flights a day. Marc’s job can be so tough
especially when the sky is turbulent. “Making a
smooth landing is the hardest part especially when
the weather is bad, but I really have to because I have
to give utmost care for my passengers,” he said.
If Marc excels in giving his passengers a worldclass flight and never fails to show them his warm
and loving accommodation, so does his loving
family toward him every time he comes home.
His wife, Angel, 33, welcomes him with homecooked meals while their adorable three-year-old
son Macky gives life to the house. The family just
moved in to their 298-square-meter two-story
house in Avida Settings Cavite last December
2014.
Marc’s favorite area in the house is the living
room where he enjoys watching TV and playing
video games with son Macky. Meanwhile, Angel
loves being in the master’s bedroom. Her major
project was the two walk-in closets for her and
Marc. It was not part of the original floor plan so
she collaborated with their architect to create a
space for it.
Angel has also converted another room into
“I just wanted it
to be comfortable.
Nandyan lahat
ng kailangan ko."
her personal workspace where she designs and
customizes dolls. “When I decided to become a
housewife after giving birth, I discovered another
hobby. I saw it as an opportunity to practice my
creative craftsmanship.” She posted on Facebook
photos of dolls that she customized and her
friends were impressed. Then other doll collectors
started to notice her works and there were some
who asked her if she could customize their dolls
for them.
“At first I did it as a favor. Eventually I had
clients who insisted on paying, so now I charge
P2,500 per doll. How I wish I can accept
international requests but because our customs is
strict, I can’t. I had offers from Germany, Indonesia
and the USA,” Angel said.
The couple plans to overhaul the house’s
interior this November and go for neutral and
earth colors. Their advice for people who are
planning to get their own house: Start investing
while you’re young. “Mabilis magtaas ang value
ng property. When we invested on this house, we
got it at a low price, then gaano katagal pa lang
ba kami; it already doubled up,” Marc explained.
Angel added that one should fit his lifestyle and
kind of work to the kind of house that he should
get. “If the investor is just getting a property for
himself, say he’s single and doesn’t plan to have
a family, a big house may not be ideal. Maybe he
should get a condominium instead.”
“Kasi kami ni Marc, ever since gusto talaga
namin ay bahay because we want a home for our
growing family,” Angel said.
Why did they choose Avida Settings Cavite? Its
tight security is the biggest factor, according to
Marc. “Outsiders won’t be able to get inside unless
they’re invited and the guards are informed. I
really feel that my family is safe. It’s important
for me especially because I’m also always away
because of the call of duty. It’s a very ideal
community to raise a family.” Marc said.
THE HEART
OF
HOSPITALITY
Create a welcoming atmosphere
for your visitors through a few
thoughtful gestures within your
home. by beam mariano
Filipinos are known the world over for being
hospitable and amiable. Here are a few tips on how
you can become a better host to your guests at the
next party you throw.
SPELL IT OUT. When sending out
invitations to your guests, make sure that it has all
the pertinent information such as your complete
address and theme of the party. Send your invite
six to eight weeks in advance, with a request to
R.S.V.P. two weeks prior the event so that you
can get a final headcount. Before sending your
invitations out, double-check the titles. Be mindful
of the use of “Ms.,” for single women unless they’re
a doctor or the likes, “Mrs.” for married women,
and “Miss” for women under 21. For less formal
gatherings and parties, you can create a group chat
on social media where you can constantly post
updates about the event. This way, you can reach
your guests faster and they can easily let you know
if they have concerns.
PREPARATION IS KEY. Make sure
to do some tasks in advance and prepare for
contingencies as well.
• Deep clean your furniture, especially the couch
where the guests will be sitting on. It would be
embarrassing for them to find stains from last
week’s dinner on your sofa armrest.
• Your front yard is one of the first things your
guests will see. Trim your front lawn at least a
week before the party. If you don’t have a front
yard and live in a condo, consider ordering
prearranged flowers to greet your guests when
they arrive.
• When planning for the menu, always check
with your guests to see if they have allergies to
certain food, or if they are on a special diet that
you may need to prepare for. It would be very
uncomfortable to be serving a glorious roasted
pig if it turns out that one of your guests is a
vegetarian.
SET THE AMBIANCE. Although it
is expected that guests arrive 15 minutes after
the set time for the host to do some last minute
preps, you have to be prepared to entertain early
birds. Once the party kicks into full gear, make
sure that the music is at a level where people can
still talk casually. Consider your neighbors as well
because you don’t want one knocking at your
door demanding an end to the festivities. Diffused
lighting is perfect for intimate occasions. (This will
make dust from forgotten furniture invisible, too.)
However, it is best to still use ample lighting for
dinner so that meals can be enjoyed effortlessly.
HOUSE RULES. You want to make
your guests feel at home but if you have certain
rules specific to your home, politely let them
know and provide a plan so no one will be put
in an unpleasant situation. For example, some
households observe a “no shoes rule” so make sure
to provide your guests with slippers. In that way,
they don’t have to walk around barefoot in your
house.
DO A WALKTHROUGH. Walk around
your house like you’re a guest. Remove any rug or
plant that might pose a hazard. Providing a sturdy
bag rack or table where guests can leave their
bags and belongings would be much appreciated
by your female guests. Also, make sure that your
restroom has clean linen and soap. A few days
before the party, replace your air freshener so that
your restroom has a fresh but not overpowering
scent. Try investing in a liquid soap dispenser
instead of leaving a bar soap for your guests. After
a while, the bar soap may appear unappealing to
your guests.
BE WI-FI-READY. You may provide
guests the Wi-Fi password, but don’t give it out
at the entrance. It’s a party after all, everyone is
expected to mingle in person and not be stuck
staring at their smartphones. Print it out instead
and display it on a quaint frame where everyone
can see it – like on a mantle, living room table or
foyer table. This will allow your guests to easily
access the Internet should the need for it arise,
but not be tempted to disappear into their social
network on the get-go.
Party On!
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering
or a party for 20, these decorating tricks will
bring your event to a whole new level!
by beam mariano
STICK TO A THEME
Thousands of party theme ideas are available online, on television
or through magazines. The trick is filtering all these exciting ideas
into something cohesive. Pinterest, for example, is a great tool for
researching inspiration, but it is an endless pool of concepts that
can become quite overwhelming. So you need to filter what you
are searching for and focus on specific keywords – for example,
Tropical Paradise Party in Green and Pink. That will generate a
better set of designs for your party. You also have to take into
account the physical limitations of the space you have. Large décor
may throw off the available space that you have in your house, while
it may take forever to prepare tiny décor to fill a large house.
PARTY ON A SHOESTRING
Celebrations cost money and priority must definitely be given to
keeping your guests well-fed. So if you are low on funds, consider
doing DIY décor out of cheap materials that you can find in craft shops
or from common household items that you may no longer have use for.
Consider decorating only the most visible areas of your space – the
foyer, ceiling and dining table.
For example:
• Dust off your Christmas wreath and use it to spruce up your front
door. Simply remove the Christmas trimmings and replace it with
ornaments that are more generic, such as flowers and ribbons.
• Your ceiling can be embellished with old magazines turned into
colorful buntings.
• Upcycle the table centerpiece for your dining table by cutting out the
bottom parts of a soda can and using them as bowls for nuts, sweets
and other small treats.
• Strips of washi tape purchased from craft shops can be used to accent
otherwise plain items all over your house, like a serving tray or even the
countertop of your table. Make sure to choose colors and patterns that
match your theme.
REMEMBER THE 3 L’S:
LAYERS, LEVELS & LIFTS
A trick to make a luxurious statement,
especially for your tablescape, is to follow
the three L’s. Consider layering a variety of
fabric for your dining table; add different
levels by using vases in assorted heights
and shapes; and choose a statement piece
that you want to highlight by elevating
it with a wooden crate or even a stack of
books. The secret to having a more unified
assortment of items in one area is to always
stick to a theme or a color palette.
SANCTUARY
IN THE
METRO SOUTH
Let Avida fulfill your dream of getting inspired,
feeling secured, and letting your passion flourish in
your very own community.
H
by annie bernardo • photos by jar concengco
ow do you know that the community you’re
living in is ideal? Does a Utopian-like community
really exist? Think of a place where there is little
to no crime, has a maintained clean and healthy
environment, fresh air, residents respect and are
friends with one another, and a homeowners'
association that is all-ears to the concerns of the
people and hands on in all community programs
and events.
The hustle and bustle in the city can be so stressful that’s why it’s
so important to find an ideal surrounding that can give you all the
comfort and security that you’re looking for. Avida understands and
knows your aspirations of coming home to a peaceful home at the end
of a stressful day. Make a choice to escape from the chaos of urban life
and find a peaceful sanctuary.
Head south and find the ideal community for you and your loved
ones. The American-themed community is filled with generous,
beautifully landscaped open spaces surrounded by parks and
greenery. Residents here feel like they’re in the City of Pines because
of “Baguio Trees” that surround the subdivision. A unique courtyard is
nestled at the center of each cluster neighborhood.
The family of Ysrael Laguio, 48 is just one of the many families that
found their home in the confines of Avida Settings Cavite. Working for
Ayala Land as a project director, he was offered a housing benefit in 2010
and he immediately chose Avida Settings Cavite because of its ideal
location. “Eto pinakamataas na area at malapit sa Tagaytay so very ideal.”
“Since Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway (MCEX) was opened, it
became a shortcut from South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) to Daang
Hari, transportation became very convenient,” Ysrael said.
His wife, Estrellita, 49 feels the same and she adds that the “safety
and serenity” of the community are very important. “This community
fosters our closeness as a family. Ayala Land is known for producing
quality development so for us this is the best investment,” she said.
Their daughter China, 19 said that the community is so peaceful
making it an ideal place for studying.
The subdivision is very much secured that Ysrael described it as “Kahit
iwanan mo pa bicycle at washing machine mo sa labas, hindi mawawala.
Pag walang appointment ang outsiders, hindi talaga papapasukin.”
Electric fence and perimeter CCTV cameras that cover the whole
perimeter area of the village protect Avida Settings Cavite. Romel
S. Gutierrez, property manager, shared that there is also a guard
monitoring system which means that security personnel are
strategically assigned in the village with
reasonable time interval.
The village has a plethora of features and facilities
for all the residents to relish. It has two playgrounds,
four parks, two covered basketball courts, and one
open court. Ysrael’s second daughter, Ireland, 12, said
that they also enjoy the amenities in the subdivision
like the swimming pool and the club house. The
family also attends the mass in the club house every
Sunday at 8am and sometimes do family picnics by
the pool. China also enjoys joining Zumba sessions in
the club house every Friday.
The family loves traveling and they make it a point
to travel to at least one foreign destination and one
local destination every year. Some of the countries
that they visited in the past as China, Thailand,
Singapore, Brunei, and the USA.They’re looking
forward to their trip to Japan by December this year.
Avida Settings Cavite is also an ideal place for
kids and teenagers to play and develop their talents.
According to cousins Adrian Palnario, 16, and
Jeanice Elaine Alontar, 15, the area is so peaceful and
complete with amenities like a basketball court where
they can develop new hobbies and meet new friends.
Adrian enjoys wave boarding and penny boarding in
the streets. “We’ve created a group of friends called
“Tropang Avida’,” he quipped.
Avida Settings Cavite also plays a big part in
reuniting families and friends and providing an
avenue for them to have a good time together.
Newlywed couple Terrence and Quincy Montaner,
they’re very glad to have spent time with their
family and friends for a picnic as their post-wedding
celebration. “It draws the family closer and I believe
that this is what a community should be about.”
CONVENIENCE LIKE
NO OTHER
Get easy access to your basic needs, thanks
to Avida Settings Cavite’s strategic location.
MALL• The District Dasma (200 m)
• SM City Molino (2.9 Km)
SCHOOL• Cavite School of Life (1 Km)
• University of Perpetual Help Molino
(3.7 km)
HOSPITAL• Metro South Hospital (1.3 Km)
• Dasmarinas City Medical Center (1 Km)
CHURCH• Our Lady of Sacred Heart (3Km)
• Mary Immaculate Parish (1.8 Km)
AVIDA SETTINGS CAVITE
ALSO PLAYS A BIG PART IN
REUNITING FAMILIES AND
FRIENDS AND PROVIDING
AN AVENUE FOR THEM
TO HAVE A GOOD TIME
TOGETHER.
The staff at Avida Towers
BGC are all very friendly and
accommodating. I am having
a terrific stay so far and can
guarantee that anyone that
spends their time here will
have a similar experience.
-Kamille Garcia
Avida offers both the young and seniors
a safe and secured environment and it is
an ideal place to raise children. The village
is well-managed by competent staff and
safeguarded by a vigilant security force.
Our most memorable Avida story would be
our first Halloween party at our community
that was organized by our administration
staff. Homeowners opened up their doors
for trick-or-treat and gave the children a
real Halloween treat.
-Mr. Jose and Mrs. Delia Nicasio
Homeowner at Avida Towers
BGC 9th Ave.
Homeowners at Avida Village North Point
DREAM
COMMUNITY
Homeowners share how Avida
changed their lives.
Avida has perfected the
equation on how they position
each project in a way that
residents can get from point
A to B in a few minutes. The
variety of amenities, especially
the pool and play area allow
us, homeowners, to have an
extension of our living space.
The placement of the amenity
area at the podium level in
Avida Towers San Lorenzo
allows comfort of use because
privacy and security from
non-residents is ensured.
-May Bonifacio
We feel safe and
secured because there
are roving guards 24/7.
It’s very convenient for
me (Luis Gilberto) as a
triathlete because I can
run and bike around
the village anytime of
the day. The size of
our house is perfect
for couples like us
who want privacy and
independence. It’s
laidback and quiet. We
feel safe being here
even when we’re alone.
Our location is also ideal
because we’re near
the mall, supermarket,
restaurants, and the
airport.
-Mr. and Ms. Luis
Gilberto Vargas
Homeowners at Avida
Village North Point
Avida sales employee and
homeowner at Avida Towers
San Lorenzo
My husband who works overseas, and me, are happy that we chose Avida. We’ve
been enjoying living here for a year now and we’re sure that our daughter is safe and
secured. Security personnel are deployed in the community all the time. As a mother,
there is nothing more important to me than the safety of my little girl and spending
time with her. My office is just a few steps from our unit so I can easily get home in
case of an emergency. Our hard work and sacrifices as a couple did pay off with our
living experience now. Avida made my role as a wife, mother, and career woman a lot
easier.
-Lenny Derecho
Avida accounting manager and homeowner at Avida Towers BGC 9th Ave.
The area is very accessible
especially for our children
because of the shuttle service.
The village is close to the
hospital, church, and the airport
so it’s very convenient for
our daughter who works as a
flight attendant. Being a real
estate agent (Tess), I can attest
that Avida properties are way
above other communities. We,
especially our sons enjoy using
the amenities like the pool
and basketball court. Strolling
around the village has become
our regular bonding activity as
a family. Our most memorable
Avida story would be when
we attended our first general
assembly last year and I (Tess)
was voted as the Board of
Directors President. This year,
I was elected as Vice President.
I’m proud to have contributed my
knowledge and skills in making
our community a better place to
live in.
-Mr. Fernando and
Mrs. Teresa Generosa
Homeowners at Avida Village Iloilo
BOLD
STROKES,
MODEST
SPACE
How to give
your compact
space a big
personality
BY BEAM MARIANO
W
hether you live in a huge house
or in a modest condominium
in the big city, it is quite easy
to overwhelm the senses
with furniture, design and
architectural elements.
Here are a few simple tricks to transform any
modest living space into a relaxing spacious home.
✱
GO LIGHT: Dark colors absorb light and will
make your rooms feel more constricted.
Instead utilize light, bright or pastel colored paint,
wallpaper, and carpets. White reflects light and
makes small spaces appear larger than they
actually are.
✱
GO BIG AND BOLD: If you’re
going to hang a piece of art,
make it a huge art-piece that is bold
and bright. The artwork becomes a
focal point within the room that draws
attention to itself, and it lends its size
to the room making it appear bigger.
Also make sure that the piece is one
worthy of conversation as you may
find yourself hosting a party one day
and in need of a good icebreaker.
✱
SPREAD THE LIGHT:
Fluorescent ceiling lights can
be harsh and make people look down
at the floor making your room look
smaller. Opt instead to spread lamps
around the room. You’ll find that these
make people look around the room,
making it feel more expansive as they
are drawn from light-to-light, and is
actually better for you if you are an
avid reader.
✱
RAISE THE ROOF: Add bright, simple
patterned wallpaper to your ceiling. If you
are able to draw their eyes to the ceiling, people
believe that they are in a bigger room. Another
great idea would be to build shelves running along
just the upper walls of the ceiling.
✱
STRIPES: Just like how stripes can make a
person look bigger or taller, stripes can also
make a room feel wider or taller. Use them in
carpets or on walls.
✱
CHOOSE THE RIGHT
FURNITURE: There are
in fact several furniture
tricks that can help make your
modest home feel bigger.
• Buy statement furniture: Instead of investing
in several smaller pieces of furniture, consider
purchasing single larger pieces of furniture.
For example, instead of buying four living
room chairs for the family home, a single large,
comfortable sofa may solve all your needs and
can actually bring the family closer together.
•Legs: Boxy furniture tend to ground
themselves into the floor. Buy instead furniture
whose legs are visible in order to give the
illusion that the room is taller than it actually is.
•Glass: Invest in glass or Lucite furniture. Being
able to see through your furniture makes the
room bigger and helps make the room brighter
as well.
• Invest in modern space-saving furniture:
Scrounge for tables, chairs and even beds
that have hidden, space saving storage
compartments. Look into those raised beds
that have working spaces underneath.
✱
THE MIRROR TRICK: Take a
big broad mirror and mount it
directly across an open window. The
mirror will not only help brighten the
room in the daytime by reflecting light
from the outside into the room, it will
also create the illusion of depth for
the room. Don’t go overboard though
with mirrors to maintain elegance or a
tasteful look.
✱
THE CANTALOUPE RULE: If you want to
decorate your house with collectibles (vases,
ceramic figurines, photo frames, etc) follow the
cantaloupe rule: Anything smaller than a regular
sized cantaloupe is clutter and should not be used
as clutter will make your home much smaller. As
with art pieces, go for dramatic collectibles that
will draw the eye and focus of visitors – making
the room seem bigger – and become great
conversation pieces.
But perhaps the biggest rule that you can
follow when it comes to creating space in
your modest home would be to abandon all
conventions. We approach our homes with certain
conventional ideas of what should be in a home,
when the reality is that you are free to play with
whatever space you have. Think out of the box,
and build your home. Play.
8
DÉCORS
FOR A
HAPPY
HOUSEHOLD
Deck the halls with all things handy
BY MA. GLAIZA LEE
Architectural style and interior design can only take a house so far. Home
accessories and décor can transform a house into a home. From artworks to rugs
and everything in between, these little knickknacks can give personality and
character to a concrete space.
From the flooring to furniture, home décor encompasses various interior design
elements. In a way, these home accessories reflect the personalities of the people
living inside, and help one discern what is important to the family. Your choice of
home accessories and décor helps distinguish your house from your neighbors’,
especially if you are living in a condo building whose units share the same
architectural dimensions and interiors.
Take a cue from these eight adornments:
Collectibles
A unique collection of knickknacks such as
classic vinyl records and movie posters, can
spruce up your home. Browse through the
collections of your family members and use them
to complement your home décor.
Add some things to their
collections such as musical
instruments, and showcase them
in the house’s plain area.
TIP:
Houseplants
Working moms have it tough. After spending
hours working at their office desk, they still
need to take care of the family when they get
home. A great home décor, houseplants are not
only visually appealing but also help create a
wonderful atmosphere. Studies show that plants
help decrease stress, improve moods and boost
creativity. Some houseplants also help in air
circulation, converting carbon dioxide into oxygen.
They neutralize harmful chemicals which some
furniture, flooring and paints used at home emit.
Some can double as odor enhancers and insect
repellants.
Go for houseplants that
complement your interiors. For
Victorian and classic themes, try
ferns and vines. Modern designs call for
bold florals, while earthy designs work
well with cacti. Are you a busy bee? Pick
plants that don’t need frequent watering
and much sunlight. Visit local orchidariums
and nurseries to find houseplants that suit
your needs.
TIP:
Artworks
Unless you’re a minimalist, bare walls definitely
need some perking up. Artworks are one of
the most common and most versatile home
accessories because they are varied and unique.
A metal-hung sculpture or a
bold colorful painting evokes
modernism, while porcelains or a
classic landscape painting moves toward
a more traditional look. If you have an
artistically inclined family member, you
can use his works to spruce up your living
room. Hanging your kids’ drawings takes
personalizing and uniqueness to a new level.
The quirky art objects that your artistic
daughter has created can make you feel that
your home really belongs to you.
TIP:
Throw pillows
Mirrors
Living in a cramped, small space? Try adding
mirrors to make your home look more spacious.
Mirrors hold some designing magic because they
come in different shapes and sizes.
If placed across a window, it
reflects natural light into the
home. Small mirrors hanging in
dark corners can brighten up the area.
A mirror with large intricate frames can
be hung like a painting on a wall. Silver
mirrors can complement drawers.
TIP:
A closet organizer is the
most commonly used storage
system because it can be easily
modified and expanded. For smaller
spaces, it’s best to use wall-hung panels
with hooks and shelving.
TIP:
Tip: Place an odd number of
pillows on the couch for a
nice look. It’s best to choose
big pillows over smaller ones to avoid
jumbles. Layering different textures,
patterns and color makes any couch lively.
TIP:
Rugs and carpets
Storage organizers
Dads will always be the go-to guys when it
comes to troubleshooting and building things.
They are often relegated to the garage, that
one area in the house that is all his. With all the
stuff he loves, he can outfit his “bat cave” with
storage organizers. As dad accumulates more
and more things including his reliable tools,
working bench, car charger, among others, he
needs new ways to store them. Storage spaces
can keep his belongings organized and at the
same time, spruce up the garage.
Tired of your old couch? Depending on what look
you are aiming for, you can find throw pillows
in different shapes, sizes and designs. Oblongs
and circles make a nice foil because they are
least expected. For a modern look, go with cotton
throw pillows with large geometric prints. The
classic look calls for velvet and silk.
Crawling babies need some loving, too, so have
a layer of comfort and warmth on your flooring.
While they can serve as cushion for babies, rugs
can also be the perfect solution to a bare room.
Lights
For a family member who loves to read books,
good lighting is a gift. Whether it is a floor or a
bedside lamp, this decorative fixture can provide
not just light but also warmth and ambiance to
any home.
Candles are a good alternative.
From small candles to large
pillars, candles evoke romance
and create calmness. Put some beautifully
designed candles on a tabletop to give
some colors.
TIP:
Do some layering to set the mood
and boundaries in the living space
and add some playfulness to the
room. With hundreds of patterns, colors
and styles to choose from, chic goes to
your plain floors.
TIP:
No matter how well-designed it is, a
beautiful house is just an edifice where
people live. Home accessories and décor
can make a big difference in making any
home more personal, comfortable, and
welcoming. So choose wisely.
5
ESSENTIALS FOR A
HARMONIOUS LIFE
These five simple tips are all you need to have a
clutter- and stress-free life. BY JOAN MAE BARREDO
Science says matter occupies space, thus we should only have space for things
that really matter. While we play a number of roles day in and day out—handling
various expectations and responsibilities in every role—it is always important to
make time to hit the pause button and take a look at your surroundings. From
treating new neighbors to handling your kids and to having that much-awaited
“me time”—this simple yet life-changing blueprint of how to live in rhythm with
all of life’s aspects will help you get back on track.
Make time to say hi to the
new family next door
Whether you touch base by offering
home-cooked cookies or saying a simple
hello, it is always nice to communicate
with your neighbors. Keep in mind the
Golden Rule. Neighbors who have a
good relationship always look out for
each other—from exchanging valuable
pieces of advice to sharing life hacks on
housekeeping and offering assistance in
times of need. See how far your simple
gesture can bring you.
Stay close to your
kids—literally
Especially in their growing up
years, children seek—and most
of the time, require—utmost
attention from their parents.
Author Mary Sheedy Kurcinka
said that “as toddlers move toward
independence, they still need
connection.” The keywords here?
Yes, physical connection.
So, instead of pushing them
toward their babysitters, let
them play with their toys beside
you while you do your makeup;
let them take showers with you
before bedtime; let them cuddle
you in the morning as you try
to wake up for another beautiful
day. Kurcinka noted that “toddlers
need to know they can trust you
to be there for them. [In} that
way they’ll ultimately be more
independent.” (Source: http://
www.babycenter.com/)
Plan ahead
Schedule all your commitments, may it be for
work, for the family, or for yourself in your
online calendar or paper diary and map out
what day and time works for each activity.
This can be a huge timesaver and it helps you
decide what is essential to complete in the days
ahead. This also makes you avoid that awful
last minute panic of realizing that you missed
an important client meeting or your kid’s
starring role in the school play. (Source:http://
saraholsenvpa.co.uk/5-productivity-tips-fora-more-harmonious-home-life-balance/)
Take one small step at a
time when decluttering
your home
A messy house is a burden. It can
become a nuisance most especially
when kids start adding up to the pile.
Clutter only irritates you, and when
it goes beyond control, it can invite
nothing but a series of disarray not
only to your home but also to your
mood. Though we can never totally
avoid having clutter, always make time
to tidy up. Decluttering is sometimes
overwhelming and it is true for
everyone. The key is to take it one step
at a time.
Choose one particular spot in your
house and focus there. Whether you
begin in your room or in the kitchen,
what matters is you begin somewhere.
Set a certain period of time to finish
that one spot or corner, work in small
increments, and take breaks. This way
you won’t treat decluttering as a heavy
chore that must be done before lunch.
Best me-time is
bath time
At the end of the day, when all the day’s
stress has set with the sun, nothing
beats the comfort of a warm bath while
sipping on a glass of wine. Making
time for yourself is important not
only for your health but also for those
who surround you as it allows you to
recharge your batteries. How can you
take care of your loved ones if you can’t
even take good care of yourself?
One of the best ways to make the
most out of this serene me-time is to
give yourself your much-deserved
bath time. Put away your phone,
tablet or any gadget, and play some
instrumental music in the background.
Relaxing piano music will always do
the trick. And then, light up some
aromatherapy candles beside your
tub. Various studies show that scented
candles will allow you to relax and help
you achieve inner peace. Sink into the
warm water and let your body feel the
warmth—breathe in, breathe out, and
let your worries fade away.
INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE
IN YOUR 20s? WHY NOT?
Now is the perfect time to jump-start your
property investment road map. BY JOAN MAE BARREDO
Y
es, you are young. You are meant
to live life to the fullest because
of course, you only live once.
You party like never before, shop
till you drop, and enjoy your
pay and your independent life. That is why
financial planning and investments probably
never crossed your mind. You think that
these are problems best dealt with when
you’re older. But not all. So think again. Ask
yourself: Where should my monthly income
really go?
While partying and shopping make you
feel like you are enjoying your hard-earned
money, they don’t necessarily mean you’re
doing well financially. Do not be alarmed
though. All you have to do is have a gradual
mental shift on how you view your money.
The key is thinking long term—where you’re
going to live with your own family during
your 30s, 40s 50s, or simply when you get
old.
With these reasons, you may want to start
thinking about investing in real estate while
you’re still, yes, in your 20s:
YOU GOT TIME
Technically speaking, this means
compounding interest—an interest which
also earns an interest. In other words, the
money that you invest, say when you were 23
will generate more income compared to the
money that you invest when you turn 43.
Another thing to take note of is that when
you invest young, you also have the time
to explore. This may mean committing a
mistake and of course, learning from it.
When time is on your side, you have plenty
of opportunities to study the real estate
industry and choose which property players
meet your personality and in the long run,
learn which ones to trust.
YOU CAN HAVE AN EXTRA
SOURCE OF INCOME
Investing in real estate properties can actually
provide you an extra source of income,
especially if you’re still far from earning a
six-digit paycheck. With your technological
knowhow, you can easily study market trends
and demand. Your first investment can be a
studio-type unit in a high-rise condominium
located at a commercial complex, which you
can rent out to young professionals working
in nearby companies. With this, you’ll have
another steady source of income which can
cover your property’s insurance, tax and
maintenance.
After some years, you may opt to sell the
property at a higher value and buy another
one, which this time around can be a twostory house in a serene subdivision.
YOUR LIFESTYLE WILL
CHANGE—FOR THE
BETTER
Setting your mind into something of value
will pave the way for you to slowly change
your financial behavior. You’ll start saving,
putting money aside for your property
investment and realigning your monthly
budget—from your day-to-day expenses
to your rest-and-relaxation allowance.
This change will help you become thrifty
and teach you how to prioritize your
expenditures, which essentially makes you
financially disciplined.
* Source: http://yfsmagazine.com/2014/02/28/7-reasons-young-entrepreneurs-should-invest-in-real-estate/
CITY
ESCAPES
MAKATI CITY
A city of strength, power, and delectable delights
A buzzing lifestyle, various exciting activities, and laudable bistros
thrive in Makati City, many of them are just a stone's throw away
from Avida Towers San Lorenzo, Avida Towers Makati West, and
Avida Towers Asten. Here are some of them:
A Kashmir
Kashmir is indeed a “place where you
can see nature at its height” and best.
Take for instance the interior: the
restaurant has beautifully-designed
cushions, coloured beads and brass
artifacts that showcase a vibrant and
exotic atmosphere, much different and
unique from what you are accustomed
to. When it comes to the food, Kashmir
offers Kathi kebab, a soft pancake
wrapper that is filled with spices and
roast chicken, similar to your average
lumpia but with a twist: abulee, garden
salad mixed with lemon, onion and
parsley, among others.
Kahmir Indian Restaurant is located
at 816 Pasay Road. Log on to
kashmirmanila.com for more details.
B Hai Shin Lou Seafood
Experience seafood dining like you've
never done before at Shin Lou Seafood
which has been around since 2003. The
interiors are elegant and minimalist with
hues of red and brown splattered across
its walls, tables and chairs. For the food,
you’d get a classic taste of anything
Chinese but of course, the seafood
comes first. Don't miss the Deep Fried
Shrimp Balls, the Peppercorn Squid,
and the Deep Fried Sea Clam with
Shredded Taro.
Located at 810 Arnaiz Avenue, Hai Shin
Lou Seafood offers the most excellent
and succulent dishes and ambiance.
Contact (02) 892 5148, (02) 752 7433
or (02) 813 8491 for more information,
or email info@haishinlou.com.
C CrossFit Mad Minute
Learning how to squat, press, pull, climb
and jump effortlessly is best achieved in
a community. At CrossFit Mad Minute,
workouts are made more exciting and
when you’re given a task, it’s sure to be
efficient and affective. Plus you’ll get to
improve in all facets of fitness: endurance,
flexibility, speed, stamina, strength,
coordination, scope, balance and accuracy
which are sure to tighten your aching
muscles.
CrossFit Mad Minute is located at Unit G
7433 Yakal Street, Makati City. Call (02)
5514281 for more information.
D Central Park Cafe
A stark illustration of the Statue of
Liberty drinking a cup of coffee at the
counter signifies how this small and
quaint cafe is truly American-made.
The exteriors speak of glass-panelled
windows but inside you’ll be greeted
with a splash of brows hues on its walls,
tables and chairs. Ideal for health buffs,
the cafe offers organic farm brew decaf
for as low as P85, iced coffee, fruit
smoothies, cream blends and coffee
blends, among others. Add-ons such as
syrup and milk are also available if you
want something sweeter.
Located at Ground Floor, YMC Building,
2320 Chino Roces Avenue Extension,
Magallanes, Makati City. Call Central
Park Cafe at (02)9557821.
E Little Tokyo
When you want to go to Japan but don’t
have the budget for it, drop by Little
Tokyo along Chino Roces Avenue. This
village-type area promises an infusion
of authentic Japanese food and decors,
plants and lanterns that greet you
along the path – which ushers you in
to the restaurants found inside. Among
the dining places in the area include
Oishinbo which offers Shoyu Ramen
at P270; Kagura which gives regular
okonomiyaki at P230-370 depending
on the toppings; Nodasho with curry
nabe as part of the menu, among others.
Located at 2277 Chino Roces Ave, Pasong
Tamo Corner Amorsolo Street, Makati.
Contact Little Tokyo at (02) 819-5008.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF HTTPS://WWW.ZOMATO.COM/MANILA/KASHMIR-SAN-LORENZO-MAKATI-CIT Y, CAMDOUGEATHEWORLD.TUMBLR.COM, HTTPS://WWW.ZOMATO.COM/MANILA/CENTRAL-PARKCAFE-MAGALLANES-MAKATI-CIT Y, HTTPS://WWW.ZOMATO.COM/MANILA/HAI-SHIN-LOU-SAN-LORENZO-MAKATI-CIT Y, HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CROSSFITSALCEDO/?FREF=TS
CITY
ESCAPES
CAVITE
Serene and quaint, a relaxing atmosphere for all
There are many places at the south of Metro Manila that are as
enthralling and beguiling as those located right in the heart of the
city. Living in Avida Settings Cavite, Avida Residences Dasmarinas,
Avida Village in Santa Cecilia or Southgrove Estates brings you
closer to these. Here, five of them show an example of grace and
charm.
A District Mall
The District Mall, known to locals
as District Salawag, is one of the
newest commercial centers to open
in the area. It has a plethora of shops,
restaurants, and entertainment hubs.
It is surrounded by trees and shrubs,
making it yet another environment
friendly Ayala mall.
The District Mall is located along
Molino-Paliparan road.
B Paradiso Terrestre
Overlooking a panoramic view of the
city of Cavite, Paradiso boasts of an
ideal setting for those who want to
escape from the hassle and bustle of the
city life. Its name is perfect because this
hotel and restaurant seems like your
own hideaway and paradise, a class and
an experience like no other. For food
and cocktails, go to the Via Romana
Restaurant which offers cuisine that’s
both Spanish and Filipino-inspired and
the La Terraza Bar and Grille which also
has its own karaoke nights.
Located at Lot 1 - A&B Pad - 04 170933,
National Road, Molino Highway, Bacoor,
Cavite. Contact Paradiso at (02)5844127 or (046)477-1097 or visit www.
theparadisoterrestre.com.
C Golden Oasys Hotel
Rest and relax at this classy yet
affordable hotel that gives ou easy
access to everything you need. The
staff are all well-mannered and
accommodating so you get a VIP
treatment!
Golden Oasys Hotel is located at Molino
4, Molino Rd, Bacoor, Cavite. Contact
(046) 438 8269 for more information.
D Big Daddy’s Grill
If you want some Filipino food and you
want it grilled, then look no further than
Big Daddy’s Grill in Cavite. One of the
bestsellers is probably familiar to you
– sisig and a splash of some kalamansi
juice to whet your appetite. You can
also pair this up with a bottle of beer,
should you wish to make this even more
livening. Big Daddy has a spacious
parking lot so you can park fast and
easy and spend more good times with
the gang.
Big Daddy’s Grill is located at Daang
Hari Molino, Cavite.
E Circle Island Resort
Just a few minutes away from Metro
Manila, Circle Island Resort boasts of
giving an excellent atmosphere to its
clients. Established ten years ago, the
resort promises a breather especially
with its cottages that are surrounded
by grass and native bamboo, providing
a wealth of fresh air. Aside from the
pool where you can dip your aching
muscles, Circle Island also offers full airconditioned rooms and other amenities
such as KTV rooms, Jacuzzi and a
restaurant that spices up your favourite
cuisine. There are also catering and
venue packages for other important
events such as weddings, birthdays and
anniversaries.
For reservations, log on to
circleislandresort.net, call
0918-9633671, 0917-5232699,
0932-8505611 or email info@
circleislandresort.net.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF HTTP://WWW.GOOGLE.COM.PH/IMGRES?IMGURL=HTTPS://IRS2.4SQI.NET/IMG/GENERAL/600X600/39040117_ EM6UC_V_ BJFCWKAVBZC2WAZSBF1ISGG7KFXCF2TEMPG.
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SG=_ _ DDSJVCZI6AQMY6J1_ JSXNL_UU3S=&DOCID=P3MQDONH2VHLSM&ITG=1, HTTP://WWW.THEPARADISOHTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/PAGES/GOLDEN-OASYS-HOTEL-MOLINOCAVITE/333414560018570?FREF=TSFB PAGE, HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/PAGES/BIG-DADDYS-PLACE-BACOOR-CAVITE/201236483240255, CIRCLEISLANDRESORT.NET
CITY
ESCAPES
PAMPANGA
An adventure and thrill like no other
Porac in Pampanga boasts of a lot of extremes and avenues –
adventure places, churches, and waterfalls. It's an area for rest and
relaxation, and a time with family and friends. At Avida Settings
Alviera, all of these are within reach.
A Sandbox
Don’t let the name fool you. Sandbox
is a perfect haven for those seeking a
new kind of thrill and recreation, one
that would take your breath away. It
features a full range of attractions that
include the Giant Swing, the country’s
tallest swing that brings you into a
gigantic leap back and forth; the Aerial
Walk Challenge, a rope course that tests
your agility, balance and of course, your
courage; the Avatar One, the country’s
first roller coaster zipline that doesn’t
let you zip on a straight line; and the
Adventure Tower, a structure that
consists of different kinds of activities
such as wall climbing and free fall.
There are also ATV rides and Outdoor
Archery for those who want to stay on
the ground.
For those who’d like a different kind
of adventure and roller coaster ride,
contact info.alviera@gmail.com.
B Miyamit Falls
Unknown to many, Porac in Pampanga
holds many mystical treasures and
gems. Among them include the famous
Miyamit Falls located in Porac Peak - a
28-kilometer scenery that offers an
overwhelming look of lush forests,
natural wonders and untouched beauty.
Before getting to the falls, you’d come
across a long trail and an ethereal view
of the mountains in Porac. Upon arrival,
you’ll discover that this is indeed perfect
for swimming and ideal for those who
like to wash away their fears and their
worries (literally) - Miyamit Falls bring
you powerful currents and adventure
that aim to inspire, encourage, and
motivate.
To get to Miyamit Falls, go to the
Angeles public market and take a
jeep to Porac. Ride a tricycle going to
Barangay Sapang Uwak (fare is around
P150-P200, good for three to four
people).
C Santa Catalina de
Alexandria Parish
Known as Porac Church, the Santa
Catalina de Alexandria Parish is a 19th
century Baroque church, a heritage
and historical site frequently visited by
locals and foreigners. Its facade speaks
of a majestic architecture, old but given
a new and fresh perspective over the
years: Corinthian columns on both
sides, iron grills on the windows and an
Augustinian emblem on the pilasters.
On the glass and rose window panels,
there is an image of Saint Catherine of
Alexandria. On the left side stands an
octagonal bell tower.
D Dinosaurs Island
Time travel to the era when dinosaurs
freely roam the Earth. Feel like you’re in
a whole new world together with over
30 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs as
you follow the Dino Trail. We bet you've
never thought that spending a day with
these gigantic creatures can be a good
alternative to typical theme parks. Well,
it is!
Dinosaurs Island is located at Clark
Picnic Grounds, Gil Puyat Ave.,
Mabalacat, Pampanga.
E ATV Petrohead
The name says it all. ATV Petrohead offers
high-quality UTVs and ATVs that you can
use to explore the beautiful site of Porac in
Pampanga. Get ready to be closer to nature
as you drive along the coast of fine sandy
dunes and explore what is now known as a
tropical surprise. This experience will surely
take your breath away and make you want
to go back over and over again.
For more information, log on to their
website at www.atvpetrohead.com.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SANDBOX - ALVIERA.PH/GALLERY/, MIYAMIT FALLS - HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/PAGES/MIYAMIT-FALLS-PORAC-PAMPANGA/387190178061925?FREF=TS, SANTA CATALINA
CHURCH - HTTPS://EN.WIKIPEDIA.ORG/WIKI/SANTA _CATALINA _ PARISH _CHURCH _%28ARAYAT%29, HTTP://WWW.WONDERINGWANDERER.COM/DINOSAURS-ISLAND-CLARK-PAMPANGA/, AT V
PETROHEAD - HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/AT V-PETROHEAD-INC-199159796821202/?FREF=TS
CITY
ESCAPES
DAVAO
Your urban sanctuary in the south
Davao City is home to a bustling city life. Living at Avida Towers
Davao brings you closer to modern conveniences.
A Marco Polo Davao
Marco Polo Davao offers travellers
and locals a wonderful experience:
suites and rooms that are
comfortable and elegant, meals
in any of the five restaurants that
serve international cuisine, a spa and
swimming pool that give your body
complete relaxation. You can also
enjoy high tea at the Lobby Lounge
while listening to soulful musicians
rendering their version of your
favorite music.
Contact Marco Polo Davao at sales_
marketing@marcopolodavao.com.
B Museo Dabawenyo
The first of its kind in Davao City,
Museo Dabawenyo showcases molten
jars and clays in cases donated by
the locals. The museum not only
displays Davao Chinese heritage but
also photos of old churches, houses,
buildings, schools, and some maps
and aerial shots of Davao City. After
a day of walking down memory lane
and letting your creative juices flow,
check out vintage keepsakes and
souvenir items handcrafted by some
local artists featured at the museum.
Museo Dabawenyo is located at A.
Pichon corner C.M. Recto Sts., Davao
City. For inquiries contact (082)2226011.
C Regina Commercial
Complex
Regina Commercial Complex is
the place where you can buy some
much-needed stuff for your home
or eat to your heart’s content. If you
want to have a relaxing massage, visit
the stores here at Regina. The best
part about shopping here is that
it doesn’t get too crowded, perfect for
people who want to stroll the mall for
hours on end.
Regina Commercial Complex is
located along CM Recto Avenue in
Davao City.
D People's Park
Plant lovers can marvel at the
lush vegetation and forestry at the
People's Park in Davao City, just
one kilometer away from CM Recto
Avenue. At least 1,000 plant species
from all over the world like Australia,
South America, Southeast Asia,
and Africa can be found here. There
are also sculptures of indigenous
people that tell the rich history of
Davao. The dancing fountain is also a
famous attraction in this park that is
described as one of the cleanest and
greenest parks in the country.
People's Park is situated at the center
of Davao City, at the corners of Jose
Camus and J. Palma Gil Streets.
E Let’s Crab Eat!
Restaurant
Satisfy your cravings for crabs and
other seafood for only P500! At this
buffet restaurant, you are free to
choose among the succulent seafood
recipes that are cooked to perfection.
Chicken and pork dishes are also
available in case you want to try other
variations. Of course, don't forget to
save some space for dessert!
For more information, visit Let’s Crab
Eat! at F. Torres St., Davao City or
contact (082)282 2722.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARCOPOLODAVAO.COM, HTTP://WWW.DAVAOCIT Y.GOV.PH/MUSEO/, DAVAOTOURISM.COM, HTTPS://EN.WIKIPEDIA.ORG/WIKI/FILE:PEOPLE'S _ PARK,_ DAVAO_CIT Y,_
PHILIPPINES _%281_ MAY_ 2010%29.JPG, ENTERDAVAO.BLOGSPOT.COM
HEALTH & FAMILIES
ARE HUGS
HEALTHY
FOR YOU?
Get one (or give one) to find out!
by bonna villagen
Buy 1 quarter pounder burger and get 1 free hug!
Sign up to our organization now! First 100
members get free hugs.
Hi, I’m Tyrex. I’m giving out free hugs.
Bet you encountered these advertisements
more than once—while walking inside the
campus, upon entering your favorite restaurant,
or on a signboard held by a stranger on the
street. Now, what’s in a hug that attracts
and excites audiences? Is it the warm and
comforting feeling you get afterward? Science
says it is more than that.
THE CHEMICAL ROMANCE
Like a chemist mixing the right amount of
reagents to come up with the perfect chemical
reaction, a simple hug plays with different
hormones of the body, maintaining its optimum
levels. A study by a team from the University of
North Carolina among 38 couples showed that
levels of oxytocin and serotonin are increased
after a 20-second hug.
Oxytocin, also known as the love or cuddle
hormone, is released by the body for adequate
uterine contraction during childbirth, and milk let
down during breastfeeding. In a normal situation,
however, oxytocin surge gives the body a feeling
of relaxation, trust and happiness.
Serotonin, on the other hand, is a chemical
responsible for modulating mood, appetite,
memory and social behavior. A decrease in
the levels of serotonin is believed to cause
depression. Meanwhile, hugging causes a
decrease in cortisol (stress hormone) levels,
thereby reducing anxiety and stress, and
promotes better body functioning.
MATTERS OF THE HEART
More than its effects on emotional stability and
behavior, the study also proved that an embrace
keeps the heart healthy. Blood pressure of the
study participants, especially women, was
noted to drop after a 20-second hug. This
may be attributed to the observation that an
affectionate touch relieves tension and relaxes
the muscles of the body. It also builds a sense of
safety and belongingness.
It is in this state of the mind and body that
the parasympathetic (rest and digest) system
works well, thus the decrease in blood pressure.
Dr. Tiffany Field, from the Touch Research
Institute of the University of Miami School of
Medicine, believes in the power of a hug in
the emotional development of children. In her
book “Touch,” she wrote that preschoolers,
who received affectionate touch from their
parents, were more loving to others. She also
noted that French adolescents, whose parents
are more expressive of their love and concern,
exhibited less aggressive behavior compared to
Americans of the same age.
While there is no limit to the number of hugs
we can give or receive in a day, Virginia Satir,
an American social worker, suggested that: “We
need four hugs a day for survival, eight hugs for
maintenance and 12 hugs for growth.”
So whether you are craving a burger or not,
even if you have to line up just to become one
of the first 100 members of that organization,
whether you know that person carrying the
signboard on the street, don’t think twice. Go
get that free hugs.
Remember that in wrapping your arms
around someone, either as a giver or receiver,
you get the same good feeling. It is a mutually
beneficial act.
Actually, you don’t have to go outside to feel
that warmth and comfort you are longing for.
Give your little siblings a bear hug, or warmly
welcome your parents’ hug when you come
home. It doesn’t have to take a lot of effort
(or money) really. After all, giving away and
receiving a hug is free and always will be.
ENTERTAINMENT
WHAT’S HOT?
Give yourself an ample dose of entertainment whether you’re killing time
or busy with your daily grind. compiled by bonna villagen
GO SET A WATCHMAN
HARPER LEE
Did you happen to love “To Kill a
Mockingbird” after that book report
back in grade school? Well, the long
wait for its “parent novel” is over.
“Go Set A Watchman” was actually
written in the 1950s as a first draft
preceding “To Kill a Mockingbird,” but was
thought to have been lost. It was finally
published in July, several months after Harper
Lee’s lawyer found a copy of it. Set about two
decades later than the first book, it describes
how the characters responded to racism
and other political events during the Great
Depression in America. The novel beat record
sales as it sold more than 105,000 copies in
the UK during its first day of release.
BOOKS
PAPERWEIGHT
MEG HASTON
The book features the story of 17-yearold Stevie who is confined in an eating
disorder treatment center in New Mexico.
More than her eating disorder, she is also
battling suicidal thoughts as she blames
herself for the death of her brother. Meg
Haston’s debut on the young adult genre
digs into the current issues faced by the
youth – depression, loss, self-acceptance
and forgiveness.
MEISTER TASK
Created by Meisterlabs, the
app boasts of the following
features all aimed at maximizing
productivity as you work
with your team: (1) create an
unlimited number of projects
for your group; (2) provide real-time updates
and communication with the group members;
(3) add checklists, tags and due dates to tasks;
(4) and upload attachments directly from your
gallery, Dropbox or iCloud. Enjoy these and a
lot more exciting features when you sign up for
free. Available in the AppStore.
As its name suggests, Google feud combines
the mechanics of the popular game
show “Family Feud” and the Google
search engine to come up with a very
entertaining web game with a simple
yet very challenging user interface. The
game starts by showing an incomplete
search query and asks the player to guess the top
10 answers based on a tally of what people around
the world actually search for. Points are earned for
every successful guess and correct answers are
shown after every round. Try it and you can find
yourself laughing at how weird the common queries
can get (www.googlefeud.com).
WEBSITE
MUSIC
TUNOG NATIN! SONGS FROM
HOME VOLUME 2
The second edition of Avida’s contribution
to Original Pilipino Music (OPM), Tunog
Natin features the passion and artistry of
some of the best local artists today like
Johnoy Danao, Jim Paredes, Bloomfields,
Moira Dela Torre, and Princess Velasco. It
includes Avida’s anniversary soundtrack
“Home Is Here,” which is an original
composition sung by Johnoy Danao.
Listen to it on Spotify and iTunes.
APPS
Do you often have to wait for
vacation to be over before you
can upload files from your DSLR
camera? Share them instantly
with this app. The Eyefi Mobi SD
card’s built-in Wi-Fi connects
the camera to the app installed
in your smartphone, tablet or PC.
With every press of the shutter
button, you can enjoy real-time
file transfer across devices and
share them instantly to different
social networking sites. The app
is available in the App Store and
Google Play.
GOOGLE FEUD
LANA DEL REY
Six months after the first announcement
of her fourth album, a full version
of the six-minute title track,
“Honeymoon,” was finally released
in July 14. Dark, meandering and
melancholic, the song resembles
Del Rey’s signature tracks from
her first two albums, “Born to Die”
and “Paradise.” Fans can check out her
new Instagram account (@honeymoon) for
updates.
EYEFI MOBI
NEWS
CORPORATE EVENTS
Avida Land's 25th Anniversary
Download a QR reader
and scan the AR icon
to watch Avida's
anniversary video
On October 14, 2015,
Avida celebrated its 25th
anniversary at the Avida
Towers Turf BGC site, located
at 34th Street, corner 9th
Avenue, BGC. On the same
occasion, Avida released
the second edition of Tunog
Natin! music album to
promote proudly local music.
NEWS
CORPORATE EVENTS
Endless Possibilities with HOMEPOSSIBLE
Avida held Homepossible: Live Free! on October 17
at the Grand Ballroom of Fairmont Hotel. Valuable
information were presented to guests on financial
planning and real estate investment. Special deals
and perks were given away during the event.
Sponsors were also present: Metrobank, Sun Life
Financial, BPI Family Housing Loan, and BDO.