In Japan, housekeeping services whose workforce involved Filipinos are gaining popularity and public trust as the nation has growing demand for such support, according to a news report by Kyodo News. The report mentioned the cheerful personalities and diligence of Filipino workers.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…
Housekeeping services employing Filipino staff have gained in popularity amid growing demand in Japan for such domestic support, with one provider seeing their workforce roughly double over the past decade.
Since the Japanese government began allowing foreign nationals to provide housekeeping services in national strategic special zones in 2016, workers from the Philippines have been a top choice due to their cheerful personalities, diligence as well as expertise.
In February, a Filipino housekeeping staff member listened carefully to her client’s instructions as she made her on-site debut around a month after arriving in Japan. She assiduously took notes as the client explained in a mix of English and Japanese how to use cleaning tools and the order of detergents.
“(Filipinos) are friendly and easy to talk to and they work seriously, so I can feel at ease,” the client said.
Before 2015, only certain households, such as those of foreign diplomats, had been allowed to employ foreign housekeepers. But a legal change that year, aimed at increasing women’s workforce participation and easing labor shortages in Japan’s housekeeping industry, paved the way for foreigners to work in designated areas.
Following the law revision, Tokyo-based Pinay International Co. launched a business especially employing Filipino housekeepers. It now operates in parts of Tokyo, neighboring Kanagawa Prefecture, Osaka Prefecture and Hyogo Prefecture with more than 200 Filipino staff working as full-time employees.
The company recruits workers in the Philippines and provides extensive training before and after their arrival in Japan, while also supporting their daily life in areas such as housing.
“Foreign talent playing an active role will likely lead to revitalizing Japan,” Pinay International CEO Tetsuya Moteki, 55, said.
According to a survey by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan’s housekeeping services market has been expanding as the number of dual-income households increases.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think more Japanese households will trust housekeeping service providers once they realize their workforce includes Filipinos? What do you think makes Filipino housekeeping workers more trustworthy compared with those from other nations of Southeast Asia?
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Recently, this year’s Christmas spectacle at the Filinvest City Central Park was launched by Filinvest with a special event that attracted special guests (including Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon and Olympic Gold Medalist Carlos Yulo).
A few nights ago, I personally visited Filinvest City Central Park (Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vzt8D9yLzRSVVhae9) and I saw the new decorations highlighting the Christmas season. They look very similar to what was set up in 2024, notably the tall Christmas tree and the permanent structures that only needed decorating.
The Filinvest City sign at the Central Park.
Tall Christmas tree in the background, other decorations and lights in the foreground.
A short distance away from the tall Christmas tree was the park’s standout structure called The Tree (launched in late 2024) which has a very unique design that not only provides people cover from rain or intense sunlight but serves as a helpful place for special activities. At night, lights of different colors are projected towards The Tree which make a fine visual attraction.
As of this writing, I noticed there were lesser non-permanent structures (that were decorated with additional Christmas lights) during my visit at the park. Since Filinvest City still has a lot of activities scheduled at the central park, there is always the possibility that additional structure and lights will be set up soon. For reference about non-permanent structures and lights, click here for my 2024 Christmas Filinvest City Central Park article.
The permanent park structures plus added decorations and lights.
Visitors taking pictures at the tall Christmas tree.
Unsurprisingly, Filinvest City Central Park remains popular with families, visitors from other cities, some foreign tourists, and those who love the open-air environment of the CBD. It would be interesting to see if there will be more visitors coming to the park during the weekends leading to Christmas as the brand new Starbucks Filinvest branch with drive-thru has been attracting a lot of customers since it opened. That being said, Filinvest City announced through social media a schedule of events or activities happening at the central park.
Set to happen at Filinvest City Central Park are the following: Holiday Lights Symphony at The Tree on November 22, December 7 and December 20 starting 7PM; Fireworks Displace on November 22, December 7 and December 20 starting 8PM. Live musical performances on November 22-23, November 30, December 7, December 20-21 starting 6PM. To see the complete park activities schedule, click https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17aEHGaGX4/
Christmas is still all about Lord Jesus
The theme of Filinvest City’s Christmas campaign this year is titled as “Celebrate Magical Christmas Moments.”
First and foremost, Christmas is all about Lord Jesus, the Savior and hope of ALL nations. During the season, we remember not only His birth in Bethlehem in Israel, but also His overall significance and the hope He always bring to people. The world we live in is twisted and chaotic. While there are many who are indeed faithful to Lord Jesus, there are still many other people out there who remain lost and unsaved. A lot of people ended up lost as they allowed themselves to be manipulated by the secular, the worldly and other rebellious forces of the world we live in.
God sent His Son Jesus to us to pave the way for people to get saved and become part of His Kingdom. Realize how much God loves His creations and none of us would exist without Him. Learn from the bible verses below.
For here is the way God loved the world—he gave his only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life.
John 3:16 (TPT)
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 (NKJV)
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:4-7 (NKJV)
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”
Matthew 2:1-2 (NKJV)
By honoring, praising and following Lord Jesus, we are connected with the Heavenly Father. When we are faithful to the Lord, it is clear that we do not let the worldly nor wickedness get in the way. It is essential that we must have uncompromising faith in the Lord. Learn from the bible verses below.
Then Jesus answered and said to them,
“Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself does; and He will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel. For as the Father raises the dead and gives life to them, even so the Son gives life to whom He will. For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.”
John 5:19-23 (NKJV)
Then Jesus said,
“I am light to the world, and those who embrace me will experience life-giving light, and they will never walk in darkness.”
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Daily Tribune. Some parts in boldface…
Announced on October 28 by Chroma Hospitality, Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila officially transforms into Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila. With a refreshed identity, the rebranding promises more comfort, more connections, and more reasons to stay in the South.
“Quest Plus is about giving guests more. More ease, more experiences, and more reasons to come back,” said James Montenegro, country manager of Chroma Hospitality. “With this transformation, guests can expect the same trusted service with a renewed focus on delivering practical comfort and premium value every step of the way.”
The rebrand reinforces Chroma’s vision to make Quest Plus Hotels & Resorts the premium value-driven choice for both business and leisure travelers across the Philippines.
The recent move represents a new chapter for guests travelling to the South, as they can look forward to refreshed rooms, elevated event spaces, and dynamic dining concepts. All are designed to make every stay smart, seamless, and satisfying.
At Quest Plus Manila, guests can expect comfort from freshened rooms and thoughtful amenities that make every stay easy and enjoyable, value-driven by flexible packages for meetings, corporate stays, and family getaways, and more flavors from dining experiences that highlight familiar favorites in the South.
Whether for a quick business trip, a weekend getaway, or a full-scale conference, Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila invites guests to discover South’s new stay destination—one that’s familiar yet excitingly new.
“Alabang has always been a key destination for corporate and leisure travelers,” Montenegro added.
On its official website, Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila posted a welcome message as follows:
Welcome to Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila, your gateway to effortless comfort and rewarding experiences in the heart of Alabang.
Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a bit of both, you’ll find more than just a place to stay — you’ll find space to connect, unwind, and make every moment count.
Located right within the vibrant Filinvest City, our hotel offers a refreshing balance between work and play, with contemporary guestrooms, elevated dining options, and thoughtfully designed meeting spaces for every kind of traveler.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Were you surprised by the rebranding of the premium hotel in Filinvest City? Quest Plus Conference Center, Manila can make Alabang a more attractive destination for tourists and foreign investors?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
When Starbucks Philippines opened its newest branch in Filinvest City right across the Filinvest City Central Park in late October, there was a lot of social media buzz as well as discussions within Alabang community members about it ranging from happiness to being concerned.
To be clear, the said Starbucks Filinvest City branch is in a standalone place (no other business establishments beside it as of now) and it is the first-ever Starbucks Drive-Thru in Alabang. Being across Filinvest City Central Park, the coffee shop is a short walk away from East Asia Drive establishments like Parque España, Commercenter and The Mondrian Residences.
This is what the new standalone Starbucks in Filinvest City looks like.
A view within the 2nd floor. There is a lot more space off-camera.
The path leading to the drive-thru.
Although the new Starbucks branch was described as being located along Filinvest Avenue, its front (entrance and exit) is actually located along East Asia Drive as it faces Filinvest City Central Park. It also has its own parking area where motorized customers can park for free. For the Google Maps location, click https://maps.app.goo.gl/MVohqcwfrzRdry9C9
For a clear view of the location of Starbucks Filinvest City, watch the video I recorded and posted below. It is my solo walk video from Commercenter to Starbucks.
The coffee shop operates Monday to Sunday, from 6AM to 11PM.
On November 1, I made my first visit at the place to see it personally. It has a nice interior and the typical Starbucks look on the menus, the counter and display of food and drinks. What caught my attention was how spacious the 2nd floor was in terms of seats and walking space. The large windows provided visitors nice views of the Filinvest City Central Park and Filinvest Avenue. On that day, I did not order anything as I went there to look and observe.
On November 4, I finally made my first order of coffee by means of drive-thru. Even though there were two vehicles ahead of me, the drive-thru experience at Starbucks near Filinvest City Central Park was pretty smooth lasting less than ten minutes. I had a hot white chocolate mocha.
The menu displayed during my drive-thru experience.
My cup of coffee from the drive-thru.
As mentioned earlier, there were some people online who expressed concern about how the newest Starbucks branch in Alabang would affect the ambience very near the park which is a popular weekend destination for both local residents and visitors who enjoy the fresh air and open space.
There were those who expressed concern about the anticipated increase of vehicles along East Asia Drive by the park, and the possibility that someday, a long line of cars could be formed in the event a lot of motorists decide to buy coffee via drive-thru. Some commented that more vehicles attracted by Starbucks might make East Asia Drive less friendly and even risky for those who enjoy jogging or biking on the said road.
A few commented that Alabang alone has lots of branches of Starbucks already and I can relate with that. There is a Starbucks Reserve inside Westgate. Alabang Town Center has one (two if you count there other one at Metro Alabang), Molito Lifestyle Complex has one, One Griffinstone building has one, Festival Mall has two, a few in Northgate Cyberzone, and so on.
On the other hand, some people commented that having coffee at Starbucks will somehow boost their chances to visit Filinvest City Central Park which itself has special events during weekends depending on the season and weather conditions. The park has been a special place for Christmas activities (read my 2024 Christmas spectacle at the park by clicking here) and night-time music shows (recently held at The Nest, a special structure that provides a wide roof). For the Google Maps location of Filinvest City Central Park, click https://maps.app.goo.gl/vzt8D9yLzRSVVhae9
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Have you been to Starbucks near Filinvest City Central Park? If you have been there, what do you think about the design of the coffee shop? Have you tried their drive-thru?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
SONAK Group, the company that manages established brands like ASICS, Onitsuka Tiger, ABC-MART Grand Stage, Molten, Mikasa, and Bullpadel, has secured a lot along Spectrum Midway in Filinvest City for the establishment of their new headquarters in Alabang, according to a news report by the Daily Tribune and details from the company’s social media post.
SONAK Group stated: “As we build our new home in Filinvest City, we look forward to creating spaces that bring people together and reflect SONAK’s continued pursuit of excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.”
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Daily Tribune. Some parts in boldface…
Filinvest City continues to cement its position as Metro South’s premier business hub with the opening of SONAK Group’s new headquarters along Spectrum Midway, a move that underscores the township’s growing appeal to both regional and multinational enterprises.
From its humble beginnings as a local merchant to becoming a regional powerhouse in sports and active lifestyle retail, SONAK Group now joins the expanding list of companies driving Filinvest City’s transformation into a center for innovation, growth, and modern living.
Managing globally recognized brands such as ASICS, Onitsuka Tiger, ABC-MART Grand Stage, Molten, Mikasa, and Bullpadel, SONAK’s relocation signals confidence in the district’s long-term vision and robust infrastructure. The company’s newly opened ASICS store at Festival Mall Alabang also strengthens its connection to the community, highlighting Filinvest City’s reputation as both a business and lifestyle destination.
“Securing this new lot in Filinvest City marks a proud milestone for SONAK,” said Anil Buxani, CEO of SONAK Land Corporation.
“It reflects not only our growth as a company but also our commitment to building a future in a community that shares our values of innovation, active lifestyles, and continuous growth.”
SONAK’s expansion is expected to generate more employment opportunities within Filinvest City’s central business district, supporting local talent and contributing to the city’s dynamic workforce.
Located across Spectrum Linear Park, Central Park, and the iconic Filinvest City landmark “The Tree,” SONAK’s headquarters situates the company at the heart of the city’s economic core. The location’s pedestrian-friendly walkways, landscaped avenues, and recreational spaces foster an environment that promotes both productivity and well-being — key aspects of Filinvest City’s live-work-play philosophy.
“Welcoming SONAK Group highlights our commitment to creating a central business district where progress and well-being go hand in hand,” said Don Ubaldo, Head of Filinvest Townships.
“Their presence adds vibrancy and innovation to our community, showcasing Filinvest City as a destination where companies grow while embracing a balanced and fulfilled lifestyle.”
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think more corporations could be influenced by SONAK Group’s milestone to expand and establish their presence in Filinvest City in the near future? Do you think the growing number of companies moving into Filinvest City will be beneficial to the nearby apartments and condominiums which have vacant units?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Tapa King, a popular food joint chain that specializes on beef tapa and rice meals, has been serving customers at its new branch located at the ground floor (or Lower Ground Floor) inside Festival Mall in Alabang.
For those who often visit Festival Mall, Tapa King is located at the commercial space that was previously occupied for years by Fukuya Japanese Restaurant (officially closed on April 30, 2025). The said space is a short walking distance from the mall’s old food court.
Out of curiosity, I visited Tapa King’s Festival Mall branch to try out their signature meal – the Classic (AKA Tapa King) which costs me P265. It had rice, beef tapa in small pieces, one fried egg and some pickled vegetables Check out the images below.
This is the Classic meal from Tapa King. It was a satisfying meal for P265.
A close look at a piece of tapa from the Classic meal. Really small.
Apart from their Classic meal, Tapa King also offers a lot of meals to meet the different cravings of customers. They also have the Tapa Adobo Classic, Sizzling Tapa King, Bistek, Beef Nilaga, Smoked Bangus Sinigang, Fried Chicken, Chicken Tocino and Boneless Bangus to name some.
While I was eating, I noticed the interior of Tapa King’s Festival Mall branch has enough space for passing through and the number of seats can easily exceed forty customers. Again, this is the same space previously occupied by Fukuya Japanese Restaurant whose interiors were rectangular (roughly 50/50 in terms of percentage of space) and the number of seats were clearly smaller compared to Tapa King. During the time I had my meal there, most of the seats were occupied and people were clearly enjoying their meals.
This Tapa King branch is located on the ground floor and is just a short walk away from the old food court of Festival Mall.
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
When you hear the words “cyber knife”, does it sound like something that came out of the realms of science fiction and fantasy? In the real world, a new procedure called CyberKnife made waves in the local news and social media recently as it was introduced by Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. More notably, the first-ever CyberKnife treatment took place helping an 8-year-old child with meningioma, according to a news report by the Daily Tribune.
For the newcomers reading this, Asian Hospital and Medical Center (also referred to simply as Asian Hospital) is located in close proximity to Festival Mall and Ospital ng Muntinlupa. For Asian Hospital’s location, click https://maps.app.goo.gl/9k4HbG1Lr8T9jEsw6
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the news report of Daily Tribune. Some parts in boldface…
Asian Hospital has completed the country’s first CyberKnife® procedure, marking a milestone in advanced cancer treatment.
The inaugural patient, an 8-year-old child with meningioma — a tumor that forms in the protective membranes of the brain and spinal cord — successfully underwent treatment at the hospital’s Asian Cancer Institute.
CyberKnife® is the only system of its kind currently available in the Philippines. The technology delivers precise, image-guided radiation therapy in real time, allowing doctors to target tumors accurately while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. Unlike traditional methods, the treatment is non-invasive, painless, and efficient.
To understand CyberKnife better, posted below is an excerpt from the official announcement by Asian Hospital. Some parts in boldface…
Asian Hospital and Medical Center proudly brings you the CyberKnife, a groundbreaking radiotherapy machine dedicated to stereotactic radiation treatment. Setting new standards in cancer care, this revolutionary technology marks a significant milestone in the Philippines.
What is CyberKnife? – The CyberKnife is non-invasive treatment designed for both cancerous and non-cancerous tumors, as well as other medical conditions requiring radiation therapy. Unlike conventional radiotherapy systems, CyberKnife delivers precise and accurate treatments, reducing damage to healthy tissues and minimizing side effects.
What Types of Cancer Can CyberKnife Treat? –CyberKnife is highly versatile and effective in targeting a wide range of cancers, including but not limited to:
Brain Lesions: Both malignant and benign, including meningiomas, arteriovenous malformations (AVMS) brain metastasis, spread from other cancers to the brain.
Lung Cancer: Treats early-stage lung cancer and metastatic lesions with exceptional accuracy.
Prostate Cancer: Offers precise treatment while minimizing side effects in 5 sessions.
Liver Cancer: Effective for both primary and metastatic liver tumors.
Pediatric Cancer: high-dose radiation to pediatric tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, making it effective for brain, spine, and certain soft tissue cancers with fewer side effects.
Spinal Tumors: Non-invasive treatment for tumors in sensitive spinal areas and (bone metastasis) spread from other cancer to the bone
Head and Neck Cancer: Re-irradiation
Pancreatic Cancer: Targets tumors in challenging locations with precision.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think CyberKnife will make a significant impact on treating patients without any damage in the near future? Do you know anyone living with cancer who is aware of CyberKnife at Asian Hospital in Alabang? Do you know how much does the CyberKnife procedure cost?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Remember when Filinvest REIT Corp. (FILRT) acquired Festival Mall for P6.26 billion months ago? Already the premier Alabang shopping mall has boosted the earnings and portfolio size of FILRT, according to a business news report by the Manila Bulletin.
For the newcomers reading this, read my previous posts about Festival Mall (which first opened in May 1998) and FILRT by clicking here, here and here. FILRT meanwhile is reputed for being one of the top taxpayers in Muntinlupa City.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the news report of Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…
Filinvest REIT Corp., the real estate investment trust of the Gotianun Group, declared ₱404 million in fresh dividends after reporting an 8.3 percent growth in net income to ₱651 million in the first six months of 2025 from ₱601 million in the same period last year.
The firm disclosed to the Philippine Stock Exchange that, for the first half of the year, it recorded revenues of ₱1.57 billion, higher by 13 percent from the same period in 2024, resulting from improvements in operations and the addition of Festival Main Mall to the portfolio.
Meanwhile, costs and expenses were contained at ₱613 million, higher by one percent, while other charges were lower by four percent to ₱187 million.
Festival Main Mall started accruing to the revenue stream of FILRT beginning May 29, 2025, equivalent to one month and three days’ revenue contribution.
The addition of Festival Main Mall is seen to improve FILRT’s earnings per share by 5.5 percent in 2025. With the additional asset, FILRT’s portfolio size increased by 37 percent in terms of GLA to 452,310 square meters.
“We are pleased to have infused a value-adding asset into our portfolio through Festival Main Mall. Having this momentum, we look forward to adding more assets and diversifying our tenant base to further the growth of the company,” said FILRT President and CEO Maricel Brion-Lirio.
The company’s portfolio of 17 office buildings, one mall, and one resort lot totaling 452,310 square meters had an occupancy of 86 percent at the end of the first half of 2025, an improvement of five percentage points from 81 percent in June last year.
The current overall tenant mix is comprised of 60 percent offices, 32 percent retail, and the balance for hospitality. Of the offices segment, 84 percent are multinational BPO companies while 16 percent are traditional.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think FILRT will somehow improve the quality of Festival Mall in terms of structure and tenants? Was it a surprise that Festival Mall boosted the earnings of FILRT this early?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
For the newcomers reading this, Filinvest City is located within the Alabang area of Muntinlupa, and it is connected with both the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Metro Manila Skyway (which itself is connected to the NAIA Expressway and the North Luzon Expressway) which makes travel connectivity convenient. PLDT itself has its current headquarters in Makati City which has lasted for decades. This new development with Filinvest City adds potential business value to Alabang. It should be noted that Filinvest City also has its own local residents.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the news report of Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…
Filinvest City, the premier township developed by the Filinvest Group, is poised for a transformation with the announcement that PLDT Inc., the nation’s largest integrated telecommunications company, will relocate its headquarters to the Southgate District of Filinvest City.
This strategic move, which involves the development of the country’s first tech campus, signals a game-changing moment for the Garden City, paving the way for a smarter, greener, and more connected urban landscape in Metro South.
The decision to move was revealed in a press statement from Filinvest City, noting that PLDT’s choice of Filinvest City followed years of careful study and strategic planning.
The planned five-hectare PLDT campus, envisioned as the future headquarters for the telecommunications group, is slated for progressive development, with initial phases expected to commence soon.
The project draws inspiration from leading global tech campuses and reflects PLDT’s long-term commitment to fostering an innovative and future-ready workplace.
This campus is part of our effort to build a healthier, more collaborative work environment, said PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V Pangilinan. He added that it reflects our belief that the workplace must evolve alongside the industries we serve. We hope it will inspire creativity, encourage teamwork, and support the future of PLDT.
The tech campus is designed not only as a headquarters but also as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and digital transformation, aiming to consolidate talent and technology to cultivate a culture of agility and forward-thinking.
This aligns with PLDT’s dedication to shaping the future of connectivity in the Philippines. The development is projected to create thousands of jobs during both construction and operational phases, boosting demand for residential and commercial spaces and supporting local businesses and startups.
It is also expected to attract professionals and innovators to Metro South, reinforcing Filinvest City’s role as a nexus for future-forward enterprises.
Josephine Gotianun-Yap, Vice Chairperson, Filinvest Development Corporation, noted the transformation of Filinvest City from a quiet stock farm into a vibrant garden metropolis, stating that this was achieved through vision, dedication, and a steadfast sense of purpose. She also said, Filinvest City was designed with intention: to foster an environment where businesses thrive, innovation flourishes, and people live well. We believe a great city is not simply a backdrop to success—but a catalyst for it.” She further added that Filinvest remains committed to continued growth and meaningful collaboration, especially with PLDT, as it pursues its mission to empower Filipinos through meaningful connections, digital inclusion, and sustainable progress.
This landmark project reinforces Filinvest City’s commitment to sustainable and integrated urban planning. As the country’s only central business district holding both LEED Gold and BERDE certifications, Filinvest City is recognized for its green building standards and environmentally responsible design. The city’s master plan embraces the live-work-play philosophy, ensuring a holistic urban experience for its residents, workers, and visitors.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think PLDT’s upcoming headquarters in Alabang will create many new jobs and add value to Filinvest City as business and investment destination? Do you think this new development will influence other major corporations to consider establishing new headquarters in Alabang? Do you consider Muntinlupa City a more competitive highly urbanized city (HUC) in relation with PLDT’s upcoming Alabang headquarters?
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Even though there are emerging rivals that each have distinctive attractions for businesses and residents, the Filinvest group remains confident and optimistic with its 244-hectare Filinvest City in Alabang, Muntinlupa, according to a business article by BusinessWorld. This is about the current state of corporate cities or central business districts (CBDs) which are contributing a lot to the economy of the Philippines in terms of financial value, jobs, properties and new residential communities.
For the newcomers reading this, Filinvest City is located within the Alabang area of Muntinlupa City, and it is connected with both the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Metro Manila Skyway (which itself is connected to the NAIA Expressway and the North Luzon Expressway) which makes travel connectivity convenient.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the business article of BusinessWorld. Some parts in boldface…
THE FILINVEST group is banking on unsold inventory and infrastructure readiness at its 244-hectare Filinvest City in Alabang, Muntinlupa to support growth in its township portfolio, as new large-scale developments emerge in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Catherine A. Ilagan, president and chief executive officer of Filinvest Alabang, Inc. (FAI), said Filinvest City continues to attract interest from businesses and residents, even as estates such as the 3,500-hectare Villar City, the 700-hectare Vermosa in Cavite, and the 74-hectare Arca South in Taguig expand their footprints.
“We’re the most developed. We have the essentials to back it up. We have the infrastructure and all of the utilities. All of that are already in place. Accessibility is also key. We also have access to talent,” Ms. Ilagan said in an interview with BusinessWorld.
“It takes a long time to develop into a real central business district (CBD),” she added.
FAI is the real estate arm of the Filinvest group, overseeing townships and high-end residential developments.
“In terms of densifying, there’s still a lot of potential for Filinvest City. The outlook for Filinvest City is really positive,” Ms. Ilagan said.
“The release of inventory is very deliberate,” she added.
According to a regulatory filing by the Filinvest group’s listed conglomerate, Filinvest Development Corp. (FDC), FAI beneficially owns 76.4 hectares of unsold lots in Filinvest City as of end-2024, indicating further growth capacity.
Launched in 1995, Filinvest City is a mixed-use township that integrates a CBD, residential communities, leisure destinations, educational institutions, and medical and wellness centers.
It is the country’s only CBD to hold both Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE) certifications.
“The LEED and BERDE certifications are testaments to Filinvest City being a green development,” Ms. Ilagan said.
Filinvest City’s sustainability features include a district cooling system that reduces energy use and emissions by servicing multiple buildings, an integrated electric-powered transport system known as the 360 Eco-Loop, and dedicated green spaces and sustainable buildings in Northgate Cyberzone.
Under Ms. Ilagan’s leadership, FAI is replicating the Filinvest City model in other areas as it grows its portfolio of master-planned, sustainable townships and premium real estate developments under the Filigree brand.
Ms. Ilagan brings more than 30 years of experience in real estate and urban development.
“Filinvest City is a ten-minute city. Everything can be reached in ten minutes. This is the DNA that we want to replicate in the other townships,” Ms. Ilagan said.
“We’ve always subscribed to the idea of a balanced live-work-play. That’s the DNA of all of our townships, a well-rounded and balanced development,” she added.
Other FAI-led townships include the 58-hectare City di Mare in Cebu, the 201-hectare Filinvest Mimosa Plus in Clark, Pampanga, the 288-hectare Filinvest New Clark City in Tarlac, and the 677-hectare Timberland Heights in Rizal.
“Whether it’s a small development, a bigger development, a high development, or a denser development, there should always be that balance of live-work-play components. As a real estate developer, that is the sustainable way to do things. Now, we want everything to be walkable,” Ms. Ilagan said.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? What do you think that Villar City, Arca South and Vermosa don’t have when compared with Filinvest City? If you are developing properties, do you find Filinvest City advantageous and attractive for your business needs?
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Author Carlo Carrasco 