Manila Condos and Properties: 2015

Jardine Distribution, Inc. and Advanta plants seed of partnership to benefit corn farming

Jardine Distribution, Inc. and Advanta plants

seed of partnership to benefit corn farming

Jardine Distribution, Inc.(JDI), one of the country's leading agro products company and global seeds producer Advanta Seed International (ASI) recently sealed a partnership that will see the introduction of several biotech products into the country.

In a joint conference between JDI and Advanta at the latter's breeding and research facility in Lopburi, Thailand, Advanta Business Manager Seraj Ahmad said that the first product to be introduced in the Philippines is ADV Maize Doble, a genetically modified seed product with double stacks gene (MON 89034*NK603) technology that will help corn growers increase their yield.

To kick off the partnership, Advanta Chief Operating Officer for Asia and Africa region Mr. Venkatram Vasantavada recently visited JDI to formally sign the partnership agreement. This was followed by a series of technical training exercises for the JDI team of agronomists.

"These are indeed exciting times for both JDI and Advanta as we participate in the dynamic Philippine corn seeds market " says Edwin Hernandez, President of JDI. "Adding ADV Maize Doble into our portfolio further shows our commitment to the Filipino Farmers in providing quality products to improve their livelihood," Mr. Hernandez added.

LUCKY CHINATOWN'S MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL

Amaia Steps Bicutan

Amaia Land holds topping-off

ceremony for Amaia Steps Bicutan

There's no stopping Amaia Land from providing quality residences to more Filipino families. Amaia recently celebrated another milestone with the topping-off ceremony of Aria A Building at Amaia Steps Bicutan 1 in Parañaque City last June 13.

The topping off ceremony was attended by guests and key Amaia officials, Ms. Loren B. Sales, AVP; Ms. Cybill Samillano, Senior Project Development Manager; Ms. Kristel Manalo, Project Development Manager; Ms. Nadine Kison, Project Development Associate; Mr. Manuel Baltazar, Innovative and Design Group Manager; Mr. Regidor Mapanao, Architectural Supervisor; Mr. Jose Pangan, Project Manager; Mr. Joselito Sanchez, Jr., Area Manager and Rev. Fr. Henry John, who blessed the site.

From left to right : Francis Mallari (HR Head), Ruperto B. Gamboa (IDG

Studio Head), Joel N. Luna(ALI IDG Head), Ricky M. Celis (President),

Richard T. Yap (MDC BuildPlus CMG Director) , Ma. Lorena B. Sales (AVP

for Sales), Joel C. Punzalan (Project Development North Luzon Head)

Situated along West Service Road corner Sun Valley Drive in Brgy. Sun Valley, the mid-rise residential project promises its future homeowners comfort amidst highly urbanized surroundings.

A 15-minute drive away from the Makati Central Business District, Amaia Steps Bicutan is near key establishments like SM City Bicutan, Robinson's Supermarket, and Bicutan Public Market. It is also accessible from the South Luzon Expressway through the West Service Road. Commuting won't be a problem as transport stations for shuttle services, cabs, tricycle and jeepneys are available in the area.

A variety of unit types such as Studio, Deluxe, and Premier, with sizes from 23-44sqm, are available to buyers. With its contemporary and suburban theme, the new development will further enhance the area with modern aesthetics.

The project will feature a host of amenities such as clubhouse, swimming pool, basketball court, children’s play area and greeneries at the Central Courtyard. Amaia Steps Bicutan also has a jogging loop for those who want to stay revitalized after a long day's work.

Like all Amaia projects, security is a priority. Residents will be worry- free, as the development is designed with a 24- hour guarded entrance, perimeter fence, and CCTV cameras.

Easy-on-the-pocket financing schemes such as cash payment, deferred, bank and In-house financing are also being offered. For inquiries, visitwww.amaialand.com or www.facebook.com/AmaiaLand.

Breathe of Fresh Air

CJHDevCo. Temporarily Gets a Breathe of Fresh Air as Court of Appeals Delayed the Group’s Departure from Camp John Hay.

The Sobrepena group could have long been gone away from the premises of the former U.S. military base, Camp John Hay if it were not for the order of the Court of Appeals to delay the group’s exit.

However, the court of appeals also ordered them to turn over the sub-lease contracts to Arnel Casanova’s Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA). BCDA is slowly but surely hideously conquering the disputed campsite once again.

Not until after the P1.4billion has been paid to Sobrepena’s CJHDevCo., they are still privileged to stay inside Camp John Hay, at least that’s what the arbitration paneil in February came into a conclusion with.

This also helped the sub-lessors to hinder the planned eviction and stay inside the camp for the time being.

The arbitration reached verdict stating that both the Camp John Hay Development Corporation (CJHDevCo.) and the BCDA each committed a couple of blunders.

BCDA was ordered by the court to lend CJHDevCo. a hand in processing the P1.4billion clam, a task which BCDA is quite uncomfortable to stomach.

Instead, they put all the rents that CJHDevCo. have paid into a special bank account without showing any signs of retrieving the money and then hand it over to CJHDevCo. On the part of CJHDevCo., the arbitration believed that CJHDevCo.’s inability to settle their obligations is pretty much erroneous and may be consider as a concrete evidence against them.

CJHDevCo. however, quickly rebut and claimed that the reason why they were unable to settle their obligations was the government’s failure to deliver the land that they have initially agreed upon.

CJHDevCo. seemed to be extremely gratified to know that residential sub-lessors aren’t involved in the arbitration case thus giving them the rights to stay inside the camp. Another bright spot that CJHDevCo. sew was the fact that they cannot be forced b Arnel Casanova and BCDA to leave Camp John Hay before it receives the payment that it is supposed to get.

In an interview with CJHDevCo Executive Vice-President Alfredo Yniguez, he said: "The CA decision confirms third party homeowners are buyers in good faith and not a party to the arbitration (and) CJHDevCohas to be paid before they vacate. Otherwise, it's status quo,"

While Arnel Casanova used to show up in high spirits whenever there’s any development with the year long dispute which favors them over their counterparts, this time, Casanova appears to be hostile in accepting the Court of Appeal’s verdict and seems to be reluctant in gracefully accepting this temporary defeat of his.

A Hilltop Haven at Tagaytay Highlands

A Hilltop Haven at Tagaytay Highlands

Whenever one thinks of his or her fondest childhood memory, images of summers spent with family are evoked—unforgettable vacations in a beautiful destination or long and lazy afternoons in the old hometown. It's what nostalgia does. Those precious bygone years are dredged from our memories, making us relive the innocence and happiness of the child we once were.

Today, there's a perfect place to make new memories with the people you love—Aspenhills in Tagaytay Highlands. A home away from home, the place can very well be the family's favorite getaway with its promise of serene and peaceful living, just two hours' drive from Metro Manila.

Soothe the stresses of city life in this exclusive hilltop community, which offers astonishing views of Batangas, Laguna, Canlubang Valley, and Laguna de Bay. With a backdrop as spectacular as this, make spending weekends in a modern-ranch style and mountain lodge-themed community relaxing for the whole family.

Inspired by the picturesque and elegant Aspen in Colorado, USA, each log home in Aspenhills exudes the warmth and intimacy one seeks on chilly days. With the rustic charm of wood and touches of contemporary glass and stone, it's the perfect setting for savoring Tagaytay's year-round cool weather.

Aspenhills provides you convenience and comfort with its modern amenities. The privacy and safety of homeowners are also given foremost importance with its 24-hour gated security.

Within this 27-hectare development are amenities that promote a holistic lifestyle. Strengthen family bonds and spend afternoons at the Sunshine Picnic Grove. Watch the kids play and be out and about at the Little Ranch Playground. Hold intimate gatherings at the Village Hall where you can celebrate life's feats with friends and family or a simple tete-a-tete with your neighbors on an idle afternoon.

On top of all these, Aspenhills residents can also enjoy Tagaytay Highlands' topnotch leisure facilities situated within 1,290 hectares of lush greenery.

Tagaytay Highlands boasts first-class amusement for the family, highlighted by the first and only Swiss cable car system in the country and two championship golf courses, while the superb Sports Center and The Spa and Lodge wellness center offer the best facilities for residents and guests who want to relax and de-stress.

There are more than twenty dining outlets in the neighborhood—pick one to cap a day of activities and fun or choose a place for the next family reunion or birthday party.

With a place to call home in a premier destination like Aspenhills, you and your family have the best chance yet to make memories that could last a lifetime.

Over the years, properties in this mountain resort have appreciated. And with suburbanization, Tagaytay Highlands is one of the best investment options there is in real estate as it is strategically located in the midst of emerging tourist destinations. Tagaytay Highlands continues to provide the market viable property selections with its continuous development.

Shattered Dreams

Camp John Hay is supposed to be a retirement haven for relatives and descendants of American soldiers who fought for our country during World War II, Filipino investors, OFWs and foreign retirees. A place where every person who wants to enjoy peace solemnly can dwell.

All of these hopeful whims were shattered all thanks to Mr. Arnel Casanova and his smutty BCDA (Bases Conversion Development Authority). Instead of landing into what is intended to be a dreamland, these Camp John Hay third parties were pestered and oppressed by the aforementioned government group.

These third parties have leased properties inside the camp for 50 years from Camp John Hay Development Corp. (CJHDevCo.), its developer. These gloomy leaseholders and now on the verge of being expelled by the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) from their homes where they invested their hard earned millions at.

However, the court still holds the last say whether they will be in favor of dislodging these occupants or they will be allowed to retain their invested properties.

It is CJHDevCo who was initially tapped to make significant developments of Camp John Hay and make it a more tourist friendly destination. They were tasked to do the rehabilitation and makeover of the former American recreational area when they won the bidding and got the contract awarded to them. Unfortunately, BCDA entered the scene lavishly delaying and denying the issuance of permits to CJHDevCo’s hence, the shambling of the developer’s work schedule occurred.

When the arbitration tribunal’s decision was released, renewed hopes for settlement and reconciliation brimmed inside the camp. The tribunal mandated that CJHDevCo must return the camp to the BCDA only if, they manage to pay their P1.4 billion rent to the developer.

Consequently, the tribunal also ruled out the P3 billion debt that BCDA is claiming CJHDevCo owes them. The tribunal also excluded the third parties who subleased their properties for 50 years from being subjected to put up with the verdict.

Here comes the atrocious antics of Casanova, he purportedly included the third parties in the conflict and even wanted to expel them from the camp. They are now squeezing tightly the third parties and wresting them to sign some prejudicial deed of assignments. BCDA urges them to admit that they have no right to stay there and that they should transfer their ownership rights to BCDA via power of attorney.

Here’s an evenly more amazing condition set by BCDA: they want the third party to sign an agreement to future unspecified terms. Come on, that is without a doubt, auspicious on the part of BCDA. To add insult toinjury, BCDA also wanted the third parties to testify against CJHDevCo. in any court hearings.

They also want every hearings to be conducted exclusively by a court in Taguig City, and never in Baguio City. There might be a solid reason behind that. Casanova and BCDA established a highly urbanized Bonifacio Global City in Taguig and have generated skyrocketing revenue for the city so it will not be pretty much surprising if the Taguig City court will favor them over its rivals. Now that’s a classic Arnel Casanova move for you.

An Invalid Excuse

“Equally Important Appointments”: Another Excuse by BCDA and JHMC to Delay the City Council Meeting?

Mayor Mauricio Domogan of Baguio City reiterated their solid stand with regards to BCDA’s requisition of Camp John Hay. Once more, he claimed that the Baguio City government should take custody of the former US military base. A total of 19 conditions were made by the local government even before the Camp John Hay was handed over to the BCDA which is part of the national government.

The scheduled Council Meeting was supposedly formed to ease the heated discussion between the Baguio City government headed by Domogan and Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) – John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) headed by Arnel Paciano Casanova and Jamie Eloise Agbayani, respectively.

But instead of participating and appearing in the scheduled council session, Casanova and Agbayani didn’t showed up. Casanova, the president and chief executive officer of BCDA said that he had attended a corporate planning session together with his staff.

Unfortunately, the said appointment coincided with the session organized by the council. Coincidentally, JHMC president and CEO, Agbayani, ostensibly attended her own set of meetings which she described as an “equally important” matter. Seriously, is the Camp John Hay problem not significant enough for them to skip the council meeting?

They better look at what’s happening inside the camp, the agony experienced by all the people affected by the issue keeps on increasing while legal processes are being dragged on by Casanova’s BCDA and his cavalry.

Mayor Domogan is confident that they can totally reclaim Camp John Hay or at persuade BCDA to grant all of the 19 conditions that they have made. He said that Resolution 362, series 1994 contains all of this 19 conditions and it was made way back then when the project was not even bid out. It also used to be included in some provisions of the master plan.

Also according to him, the conditions were a pact made by the local government and BCDA so the latter must equitably honor all of the conditions included on the agreement.

One of the most vital conditions cited by the Baguio city government was the seclusion of 13 barangays from the proposed Camp John Hay development project as well as the endowment of its own water supply. They are also urging BCDA to pay the local government’s share from lease rentals.

Providing all of these 19 conditions might be too much for BCDA’s part to say the least. That may be the reason why they keep on delaying the sessions so that they can improvise new wicked ways to win this ceaseless legal battle.

On Arnel Casanova's reputation

Arnel Paciano Casanova's triumphant career expedition has been well documented. He is one of those exemplary individuals having a Cinderella-story like of life. He is academically exceptional. Combine that with his outstanding gregarious negotiation skills and you are going to have an almost perfect leader like him. That's what most of his supporters believe he is.

This guy from Padre Garcia, Batangas has now emerged into one of the most prominent personalities in the Philippines. Given the fact that he is a famed lawyer, he is also the president and chief executive officer of the government-owned Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA).

BCDA aims to develop the economic growth of the country, something which Casanova is known of. He developed the former army camp in Fort Bonifacio into a fully developed and urbanized business district which is now giving Ayala and Ortigas centers a run for their money.

According to him, BCDA plans to build more urbanized areas and business districts around the country in order for us to attain a flourishing economy.

While his proposals seem to look good on paper, his anomalous actions toward Camp John Hay Development Authority (CJHDevCo) proves that there's some kind of a malevolent intention behind Casanova's deceiving tactics.

Camp John Hay claims may be brought about by possible billion-peso projects once it materializes.

CJHDevCo together with locators and sub-lesses of the former American bases are continuously being harrased by Casanova and his men. Despite of the decision made by Philippine Dispute Resolution Center Inc. (PDRCI) claiming that CJHDevCo must first receive a payment amounting to 1.4 billion pesos from the government before turning the camp over to the administration.

Here comes the sad part, Casanova is extremely reluctant to comply with PDRCI's orders but is still keenly pursuing to surmount Camp John Hay. Allegedly, he also threatened the third parties like locators and sub-less despite of the given memo that they shouldn't be involved in the said conflict since they are paying their respective rental fees.

CJHDevCo even filed a Judicial Confirmation before the Regional Trial Court of Baguio to persuade the decision of the arbitration court. It also shows how dedicated they are towards acting in accordance with the law.

More often than not, Casanova's reputation undeniably took a major hit due to these types of accusations. This only proves that even a poor person with humble beginnings can still be transformed into a fierce tyrant when greed and money take over.

Casanova, BCDA must learn to be fair

Arnel Casanova and the BCDA team threatens all locators, units owners and sub-lessees at Camp John Hay. Specially those who had entered into contracts with the Camp John Hay Development Co to enter into a Deed of Assignment with BCDA and sue CJHDevco.

But it was the Arbitration Board who said that the BCDA must first pay CJHDevo P1.421 billion before vacating CJH.

Arnel Casanova is so aggressive about this move and it's hard to understand what's on his mind. Remember Mr. Casanova, BCDA must pay CJHDevco first before the Camp can be vacated.

Bullying: threatening locators, unit owners and sub-lessees who entered into contracts for a 50-year lease that they could be evicted if they do not assign their contracts with BCDA is a clear violation of the law.

Rendered last February 11, the Regional Trial Court of Baguio City today granted the Petition of John Hay Developer, CJH Development Corporation (CJHDEVCO) for Confirmation of the P1.42 billion money award to CJHDEVCO by the Philippine Dispute Resolution Center, Inc. (PDRCI)

On a note, Casanova is a highly educated man, he is a lawyer. He must be from a great law school in the world. But with all his act of causing too much trouble he seems to be lower than a straw in the street.

How low can his Dirty Tactics go?

With no basis at all, Casanova does not want the return of the Camp with its existing locators, lessees and tenants. See how awful he decides? He is not even authorized to do that.

Aside from awful, he also wants to evict CJHDEVCO and make them pay the costs of eviction of the existing locators, lessees and tenants. That is not so fair at all.

Doing these makes Casanova exposing himself to graft and corruption. Casanova and the BCDA board can go to jail for acts contrary to law. Casanova is a lawyer and he should know that.

There is even a rumor that Casanova is a bisexual and he uses the money he earns from stealing to high end male models for his pleasure. If that is true that's absurd.

Amaia Land celebrates 5th year of providing quality homes to more Filipinos

Amaia Land celebrates 5^th year of

providing quality homes to more Filipinos

Aiming to help hardworking Filipino families have a house they can call their own, Amaia Land continues making those dreams come true as the company celebrates its 5^th year in the industry.

Amaia was borne out of the vision of its mother company, Ayala Land (ALI), to broaden its residential product line to cater to the wider Philippine population. In 2010, this came into fruition with the incorporation of Amaia Land and its subsequent launch of the first Amaia Scapes economic housing project, thereby reinforcing ALI's thrust of "enhancing land, enriching lives for more people."

The company's maiden project, Amaia Scapes Laguna established Amaia as a competitive brand in the real estate industry. Amaia's "Scapes" house-and-lot product line, which now consists of 16 communities, has revolutionized the economic housing segment. Some features that homeowners love about the community are its cluster type development, patio greens and full complement of shared amenities. Meanwhile, housing units are sought after for their attractive facades, modern design and efficient space planning.

In 2011, Amaia launched its condominium product lines: the mid-rise Amaia "Steps" and high-rise Amaia "Skies". Amaia Steps now boasts a total of nine communities. These homes are ideal for those who aspire for bigger living spaces within city limits. Meanwhile, there are now four Amaia Skies developments, which offer private abodes for urban dwellers and on-the-go working individuals desiring a balanced work-play lifestyle.

Last year, Amaia introduced Amaia "Series", a pure townhouse development designed for families with growing need for space, and Amaia "Square", shophouses made for entrepreneurs who want their home and store in one convenient address.

So far, Amaia has served over 12,000 families across the country. The brand is present in key locations in North Luzon (Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Urdaneta), Metro Manila (Quezon City, Paranaque, Manila, Caloocan, Pasig, Mandaluyong and soon Las Pinas), South Luzon (Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Quezon and soon Bicol) and the Visayas (Bacolod, Cebu and soon Iloilo). This year, it will venture to CDO, Mindanao. Homes are made affordable by easy-on-the-pocket paying options such as cash, deferred, bank financing, Pag-ibig and in-house financing.

The company opened a significant numer of jobs for Filipinos including a 17,000-man sales force in 18 growth centers and sales offices nationwide. Its online followers has soared and includes over 500,000 facebook fans, propelling the brand's dominance in the digital platform.

"Our fifth year anniversary marks Amaia's success over the years and the company's mission in the years to come," says Amaia Land president Ricky Celis. "We will continue to contribute to nation building by serving thousands of families with quality yet affordable homes in more locations nationwide."

For inquiries, visit www.amaialand.com or like www.facebook/AmaiaLand.

Amaia celebrates its fifth year of providing Filipino families quality yet affordable homes in an event last Feb. 6 at the Acacia Hotel Manila.

The team heads of Amaia Land who work hard to give more families quality yet affordable homes during the company's fifth anniversary at the Acacia Hotel Manila last Feb. 6. (From L-R: Francis Mallari, Amaia Land Human Resource Department Head; Bobby Dy, Ayala Land President and CEO; Ricky Celis, Amaia Land President; Nikie Lingad, Amaia Land Project Strategic Management Group Head; Petes Gamboa, Innovation and Design Group Head)

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