Tips to Protect Your Homes from Natural Calamities

Posted by Stefan on March 13, 2015

There will always be chances of some kind of weather or geologic condition no matter where we live in. Say storms, strong winds, earthquakes, and even floods, these require our attention to rethink our home’s construction.

In this case, the Philippines has been known to the world for the tragic experiences brought by typhoons that resulted to strong floods and countless casualties. Instead of looking at this as a problem, in one way or another, take this as an opportunity to protect your family through storm-proofing your home.

Having adequate storm protection can make the difference between minimal storm damage and serious property loss. Hoping for good weather or waiting until the last minute puts you at a disadvantage. You should always remove yourself, and your family, from the path of an oncoming dangerous storm. Evacuate with confidence knowing your property is protected.

Let the water flow.While you should always keep your gutters and downspouts clean, it’s particularly important to make sure nothing blocks flowing water during a storm. Let’s face it, the water will want to go somewhere. If it’s not down and away, it’ll be in your roof and attic. Conduct a visual inspection of your gutters and downspouts to be sure nothing blocks the flow of water from your roof to avoid water getting inside your precious home.

Protect your doors and windows. Whether with impact-resistant glass or shutters, protecting doors and windows against high winds and flying debris is imperative because strong typhoon winds can throw objects away.

Keep your landscape free of any debris.Prune trees and remove dead branches well before the any storm shows up. To avoid further damage and injuries, remove any patio furniture and other loose items outside that can get blown around.

Safe and elevated location.Especially for houses in some coastal areas, building codes require that the structure be raised. While garages and storage spaces can be placed at the ground floors of these homes, the construction should be such that the structure doesn’t block a storm surge. As much as possible, location should also be considered when planning to put up a house. Coastal communities should be moved further away from the shoreline to lessen the risk of storm surges (flooding due to abnormal sea level rise).

Keep basic supplies on hand. The power of a typhoon can be so damaging to the extent that it cannot be foreseen. So it is suggested to keep on hand at least a three-day supply of items such as candles, batteries, potable water, canned goods that don’t require refrigeration etc. Put together an emergency kit in advance of any storm as recommended by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

As advocates for calamity-resistant homes, Primavera Residences is designed to withstand strong earthquakes, typhoons, and other natural calamities, while its elevated location at 110 meters above sea level makes it flood-free and ideal for safe, hassle-free, and convenient eco-friendly living.

Its developer, Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation (ITPI), a sustainable real estate developer, takes part in actively promoting green advocacies in the city.

Do you want to know more about the building’s tips and advocacies? Call 0917-794-2221 or visit its website here.

Top 4 Reasons Why More People Choose a Condo Over a House

Posted by Stefan on March 12, 2015

Let’s face the fact that living in a single-detached home can be very expensive, especially when you decide to live on your own and want to live in major cities. Securing a house in good locations can be quite tedious because of cost and availability reasons, resulting to more people opting for a condo unit than traditional houses.

Here are the top reasons why:

Cost-friendly: Nowadays, condo units are often the popular choice for yuppies, newly-weds, and small families because of affordability compared to single-detached homes. Since a condo unit is fairly divided, making it easier for you to maintain and clean. Also, in the Philippines, you can own a condo unit for as low as Php 8,000 per month.

Location: When buying a place to live, one of the top consideration is the location. If you’re looking for a place that is just a few steps away from important places, then there is no doubt that a condominium is the best choice. Primavera Residences, located in Uptown Cagayan de Oro, is situated just beside one of largest mall in the city, SM City CdO. Not only that, it is also a walking distance to restaurants, movie houses, salons, supermarkets, schools, offices, and other leisure and entertainment hubs.

Safety: Now that most of our jobs require us to travel a lot and spend most of our time at work, living in a condo unit gives you the convenience of not having to worry about leaving your home unguarded. For Primavera Residences, the building provides 24/7 security with highly trained security guards who are deployed to watch the possible entry points of the building to avoid illegal entry. Security cameras also covers the common areas of the building to make surveillance more effective. Lock and leave? Not a problem.

Amenities and facilities: Living in a condo gives you easier access to a swimming pool and gym, giving you the freedom and convenience to visit these amenities any time for your relaxation needs. This is just one of the many reasons why a number of the working population choose condo units over single-detached homes.

Condo living has both advantages and disadvantages, but for young professionals, newly-weds, or even friends living under one roof, then a condo unit truly offers more advantages.

Primavera Residences, a mixed-use development which is located in Uptown Cagayan de Oro, is the first-ever eco-friendly condominium project in Northern Mindanao. Specifically located at Pueblo de Oro Business and I.T. Park, Primavera Residences is ensured with 24/7 security. Surrounded with nearby leisure and entertainment areas, the building is just a walking distance to SM City CdO.

Primavera Residences is offering residential, commercial and office spaces for lease and purchase. All units in the first tower are ready for occupancy while the second tower is slated to be turned over in a few months’ time. Buyers may choose from studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units.

Do you want to know more about Primavera Residences? You may visit their website by clicking here or call (088) 880-5002 or 0917-794-2221.

Why a Condo Unit is the Best Graduation Gift

Posted by Stefan on March 10, 2015

It’s always exciting to see someone graduate from school—especially a college graduate who feels liberated from school and eager to start a new career. Graduating is exciting as it is terrifying especially when one starts to be independent.

Yes, there is no question that the best investment parents can give to their children is equipping them for the future—the gift of education. But what happens after graduation? As their child goes through the “real world”, worrying in silence would be very excruciating. Parents want nothing but the best for their children and for graduation, they would probably give their child the best gift ever.

Well, here are some reasons why a condominium is the best gift ever.

Worthy investment

Buying a condo unit as a graduation gift is a worthy investment for both parents and children. Not only that it could be considered a second home but also making sure that your child is in a place that is convenient and secure even if you decide to let him go.

In the Philippines, condo units are reasonable with its easier and efficient modes of payment. Why not help your newly-grad with the down payment or the deposit if it’s a rent? When he lands on a job, tell him to chip in. This way, your child becomes responsible enough to handle such investment. A condo unit will not only be a real estate investment but an investment into his character and sense of responsibility.

The reality of adulthood

Dependency is over and slacking’s done. Sooner or later, when your child gets his diploma, he will have to face reality and start doing things on his own.

Buying him a condo means driving him to get his act together. Through proper guidance and timing, you’ll be amazed on how independence can do to a child. Also, with significant amount of supervision, your child will soon live responsibly and maturely.

As parents, come prepared with your list of what-to-bring, from kitchen wares to appliances, when he starts living on his own. Living away from your comfort zone is no easy task, but at the same time, there is no better training than getting your hands a little dirty.

Financial responsibility

When your child takes off from college, you would want him to become financially responsible and independent. Though it will be challenging but it sure is worth it. We cannot keep away from the fact that sooner, when he lands a job, he will feel the need to reward himself every payday and might spend on things that do not help him to become financially stable someday.

If he owns a condo or rents one, he will value every peso he spends since he has bills to pay. Little will you know that he will be responsible enough to save electricity and water consumptions and manages his social life.

This way, you’re teaching him to be financially responsible and how to save for the future. He will know the value of hard work and ensure himself of a better life ahead.

For a better future

Giving a newly-grad a condo helps him become responsible of his own space and own life. It will help him grow maturely and responsibly as a professional. Most importantly, he will have a better chance at living the life he knows he deserves.

How’s this kind of “congratulations” for your child’s future?

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This March, Primavera Residences offers special discounts worth P70,000 to its condominium buyers. In addition, buyers with graduating family members may also avail of an additional P5,000 worth of gift certificates which can be claimed at Bigby’s SM City CdO branch.

Primavera Residences is a multi-awarded green property development situated in Uptown Cagayan de Oro. Its passive cooling features include ledges on the exterior walls that provide shade and reduce the amount of direct sunlight hitting the windows, thus minimizing the use of air-conditioners. An inner courtyard at Primavera Residences also provide natural ventilation by expulsing warm air out through the rooftop.

Do you want to know more about the multi-awarded green building’s promos and treats? You may contact Primavera at (088) 880-5002, 0917 794 2221, or you can visit their website by clicking here.

Primavera Gives Full Support to SYAGIT 2015

Posted by Stefan on March 7, 2015

This coming March 10-12, Xavier University’s Development Communication senior students will hold its annual exhibit, SYAGIT!, showcasing different outputs in the form of posters, infographics, videos, brochures and newsletters about environmental preservation and informed choices for a healthy lifestyle (food security) at the Rotunda of Lim Ketkai Center.

This year’s theme, Sampit sa Dapit: I-syagit!, seeks to address the prominent problems of the city which are food security and environmental preservation. The food security exhibit will be showcased through documentaries and posters that will help spread awareness on the issue of food scarcity and hunger in the city and promote sustainable agriculture. Meanwhile, through various campaign materials such as posters and newsletters, the issue on environmental conservation were addressed to different barangays (communities) in Cagayan de Oro to also help spread awareness to its residents.

“SYAGIT offers a variety of communication materials that feature food security and environmental protection. By providing the people and the government the important information through Syagit, we are hopeful that they will take the necessary actions to address the issues on environmental degradation,” Irish Lam, SYAGIT’s head for public relations, said.

Primavera Residences supports SYAGIT!

Primavera Residences, the first eco-friendly property in Cagayan de Oro, has been in the forefront in promoting green advocacies in the city. As a leader in sustainable properties, Primavera makes sure to fully support projects that stimulates environmental campaigns in the city.

For the past years, Primavera has supported several sustainable projects that promotes eco-friendliness and community development.

Primavera wishes these senior DevCom students in their pursuit to make Cagayan de Oro a better and livable city.

Do you want to know more about Primavera’s advocacies? Please click here.

Entrepreneur Magazine PH Cites CdO as one of The “Three Surprising Cities that are Best for Business”

Posted by Stefan on February 26, 2015

Entrepreneur Magazine Philippines, a prominent business and economy magazine in the Philippines, dubbed Cagayan de Oro as one of the “Three Surprising Cities that are Best for Business” in the mag’s February 2015 issue.

Together with the cities of Iloilo and Naga, Cagayan de Oro has once again raised the bar for being cited as a city of good economy and an emerging business center.

Labelled as “The Speedster”, data show that business registration processing and business permit renewal could be done in less than an hour making Misamis Oriental’s highly urbanized city rake in almost 18,000 business registrations as of 2011. This success has brought in more tourists and investors in the city amounting to the total investment of P1.34 billion in 2014.

The consistent rise of Northern Mindanao’s economy fueled a remarkable upsurge of 94.4 percent in the region’s employment rate which can also be attributed to the consistent efforts of the city’s Public Employment Services Office (PESO).

In 2014, Cagayan de Oro made it to the top list of the Philippine’s most competitive cities with a score of 49.36 percent after Makati’s 53.24 percent.

“The city government and the private sector have a long standing partnership that has only grown stronger over time and we have worked hand-in-hand, enduring trials and enjoying triumphs together,” Eileen San Juan, the city’s local economic investment promotions officer, said.

She also said that Cagayan de Oro is primed to be strategic as the city aims to be the business, eco-tourism, agro-processing, and leisure hub in Mindanao.

In the wake of the devastating calamities that hit Cagayan de Oro in recent years, the city has bounced back and continued its positive growth. “Its relative peace and order situation provides a context of stability that will propel the city towards a significant role in the dynamics and challenges of tomorrow,” she concludes.

Primavera Residences, CdO’s first and only sustainable condo development, is internationally recognized and multi-awarded for its eco-friendly features. Located in Uptown Cagayan de Oro, the green building offers residential and office spaces for sale and for rent.

Do you want to know more about the Primavera Residences? Please click here.

5 Mobile Apps Promoting Green Living

Posted by Stefan on January 27, 2015

We live in a world where it’s never too easy to balance the highly evolving technology with the protection of our planet. Despite the efficiency and convenience technology have contributed to us, many companies have added to the environmental issues whether it is through their use of resources, factory conditions, or product-shipping all over the world, among many other unsustainable practices.

However, there are certain devices that could help improve our eco-friendly efforts. Even it is only to arm ourselves with information, our smartphones could be our daily reminders on how to be kinder to the environment.

Below are this list of some eco-friendly mobile apps you can download on your mobile devices.

EcoCharge

A simple yet powerful concept, the EcoCharge app will ring an alarm when electronic devices are fully charged to increase battery life and prevent unnecessary energy use. Instead of leaving a cellular phone or laptop continuously charging at home or work when the battery is fully charged, it helps users become more aware of energy use while providing great eco-friendly tips on how to stay connected and energy efficient with our favorite tech gadgets and devices.

iViro

iViro helps users create more sustainable homes and living spaces. Perform a customized energy analysis to receive a detailed overview of your home’s heat, cooling, electricity, water and appliance energy consumption patterns with annual cost and CO2 emission estimates. Additional features provide ideas on energy-saving alternatives and strategies to ensure your home is energy-efficient and cost-efficient while reducing its environmental impact.

Go Green

We don’t immediately become eco-geniuses. It takes time, effort, and education to get there, which is why this app is such a great place to start. There is no creating solar panels or learning to make a dress out of used corn husks; just practical and simple tips that are easy for anyone to implement into their daily lives. Whether it is catching the bus, or walking instead of using the car a few times a week; buying from a local farmer’s market instead of a grocery store, or just learning how to recycle for the first time; this app has you covered.

7-minute workout

You can challenge yourself with 7-minute workout for 7 months using nothing more than a chair, a wall, and your own body weight. The 7-minute workout is based on scientific studies to provide the maximum benefit of working out regularly in the shortest time possible. No electricity needed. Workout anytime, anywhere.

Greenpeace

Greenpeace has been the most well-known name in environmentalism for decades. Now it has an app that both helps support its cause and teaches your children about protecting the planet and all its creatures. Plenty of games, news from Greenpeace globally, and online efforts are featured.

Do you know of any good apps for going green? Let us know in the comments.

Primavera Residences, the premier eco-friendly development in Cagayan de Oro City, regularly shares green tips for our readers. Do you want to know more about it? Click here.

Primavera Offers Discount on Condotel Rates for BWM Loyalty Cardholders

Posted by Stefan on January 19, 2015

Primavera Residences recently joined the list of partner establishments under Business Week Mindanao’s loyalty program. BWM loyalty card holders can now avail of 10% discount on published rental rates for its 2-bedroom, 1-bedroom, and studio units, for short term and long term stay.

Business Week Mindanao Loyalty Card is a discount card that entitles cardholders to exciting discounts for a one year period from member business establishments here in Northern Mindanao.

“As a BWM loyalty card member, he or she is entitled to a 10% discount on our published daily rates here at Primavera Serviced Residences, and is also considered a preferred guest if he/she stays with us,” Franz Enriquez, Leasing Manager, said.

If you’re cardholder and looking for a place to stay for 4 pax, from the published rate of P4,500 per day, Primavera Serviced Residences 2-bedroom units may be availed for only P4,050 per day. For 1BR and studio units which are good for 2 pax, published rates are P3,500 and P2,500 respectively, but cardholders can avail the discounted rates of P3,150 and P2,250.

“Primavera Serviced Residences gives its clients a taste of elegant living without the hefty price tag. Our clients will undoubtedly experience the reasons why we were chosen by the Asia Pacific Property Awards as the Best Mixed-Use Development in the Philippines for 2014-2015,” Enriquez explained.

As an added value and to further enhance the multi-awarded property’s interiors, this February, Primavera Serviced Residences will furnish its condotel units with high quality Italian artworks by Nino Quartana, an internationally-acclaimed Italian artist.

Catering to short- and long-term visitors, Primavera Residences’ uptown location is away from CDO’s hustle and bustle but still within reach from commercial centers, malls, supermarkets, banks, theaters, and a wide array of shops and restaurants.

“Because we are near life’s important places (mall, schools, world-class golf course, etc.), Primavera Residences is the perfect choice for those who want to relax, work at their convenience, and live in modern and comfortable amenities. Whether visiting Cagayan de Oro for business or pleasure, Primavera Serviced Residences is an ideal place to stay,” Enriquez said.

“I would like to invite everybody to try out Primavera Serviced Residences and experience an authentic Italian-designed space that is sure to amaze, and enjoy breath-taking views of the spectacular CdO sunset and Macajalar Bay,” Enriquez concluded.

Do you want to know more about Primavera Residences? Call 0917-794-2221 or check out the website by clicking here.

Primavera to Furnish Units with Paintings by Italian Artist

Posted by Stefan on January 14, 2015

Primavera Residences has recently partnered with distinguished Italian painter Nino Quartana to furnish its two towers with 50 specially commissioned art pieces. This coming February 2015, in time for the National Arts Month, the project’s furnished units will be home to high-quality Italian art, further enhancing the multi-awarded property’s interiors.

“Mr. Quartana’s paintings are incomparable. To add value to the elegance and style of the living experience of our guests and clients, his Water-Sky and Fire-Earth-themed paintings perfectly capture the sense of serenity and peace our clients would need,” ITPI CEO Romolo Nati expressed.

Nino Quartana is not only a painter but also a stage designer and a ceramist as well. Having attended an Arts High School and specializing in Fine Arts at University in Palermo, Sicily, the Sicilian painter honed his artistic qualities through years of practice and study. His art works have been showcased in Italy and other international exhibits since 1979.

While in Milan, Quartana worked for an Italian television network, Radiotelevisione italiana (RAI), making a name for himself in the television and theater industry. He also ventured in teaching painting techniques and stagecraft in several qualifying courses funded by public and private organizations and also worked for programs funded by the European Union and the Sicilian Regio, aimed at the rehabilitation of children at risk by means of painting, stagecraft and drama.

Since January 2007 until the present, he relocated to Manila, where he continued to master his painting techniques. His works have been exhibited in many art galleries around the metro such as Galleria Deumila and Rico Renzo among others.

In 2008, he participated in “Europa sa Maynila”, an art exhibition where Manila-based European artists showcased their one-of-a-kind art works. It was organized by the Delegation of European Commission to the Philippines and co-presented by Ayala Museum.

Primavera meets Quartana

Primavera Residences, a locally and internationally recognized property for its sustainable features and commitment to green architecture and design, was named among the winners in the prestigious International Property Awards in the 2014 Asia Pacific regional competition being the Best Mixed-use Development in the Philippines.

“Primavera Residences is designed, developed and managed following the criteria of sustainability. This means using natural resources in a smarter way. To weave sustainability, elegance, and style, we asked Mr. Quartana to create elegant environment-friendly artworks to fit the needs of our clientele,” Nati said.

The green building actively promotes environmental sustainability without compromising the Italian elegance and serene living of its residents.

“Mr. Quartana impressed me with his works and has fulfilled our expectations in creating an atmosphere fitted for our development. As an artist myself, I am really honored to display 50 artworks made by the one and only Nino Quartana,” Nati concluded.

As the building is designed to be energy-efficient, unit residents save 20% in energy consumption and 32% savings in aircon use. The installation of solar panels will further reduce electricity costs for the building as the energy from the solar panels will power the common areas.

Interested to see Nino Quartana’s art works? Primavera Serviced Residences offers short-term and long-term stay for those on business trips and long-term project assignments. Book now to experience a one-of-a-kind Italian elegance at Primavera Residences.

Start Your New Year Right with Eco-friendly Resolutions

Posted by Stefan on January 12, 2015

To open 2015 with a bang, New Year’s resolutions could bring hope of new beginnings and a fresh start. A lot of people are beginning to look at what they would like to achieve this year, while there are a number of traditional resolutions adopted from the past years such as to lose weight, get a new job, buy a home, to mention some. However, there are also various non-traditional resolutions which can be made.

As you sit and ponder what 2015 may hold, take a few minutes to look over the following list of 10 green New Year’s resolutions worth embracing. Whether you adopt one, a few or all 10 of them, resolving to be greener in the upcoming year is something worth doing.

Separate your waste into materials that can be recycled, those that can be composted and those to throw away. If not, you can donate them to those in need of extras, I believe there’s a lot of them.
Set up a garden, either indoors or out, so you can grow your own fruit, vegetables and/or herbs. Your compost can help you get started.
Spend at least 30 minutes a day outdoors. Chill, relax and live life as how you wanted it.
Schedule time each day or week where you and your family go unplugged. This way, you can lessen your home’s electricity consumption.
Make sure your washing machine, dryer and dishwasher are full before you run a load.
Reduce water consumption by limiting shower time, making your toilets low-flow, turning off water while brushing your teeth, etc.
Drive less. Leave your vehicle at home at least one day a week (or more). Walk, bike, take the tricycle or opt for other means of public transportation to get where you need to go.
Improve your overall health by resolving to eat fresher, raw foods and less pre-packaged, processed foods.
Switch to reusable products. Ditch one-use or disposable products.
Lower the level of indoor air pollution in your home by adding more plants, airing out your home regularly, using natural homemade cleaners and making your own candles or air fresheners.

These are just simple green tips to live a sustainable life from Mother Nature Network.

Adding these to your resolutions for the year will get you off to a good start on living a greener, more sustainable life.

Here’s hoping this year is your greenest yet!

Planning to travel to Cagayan de Oro? Check in into the only eco-friendly serviced residences in Mindanao for your short-term and long-term accommodation requirements.

Primavera Residences, the first and only multi-awarded eco-friendly property in Cagayan de Oro, is an advocate of sustainable living. For more green tips, click here.

Primavera Conducts Clean-up Drive for National Volunteer Month

Posted by Stefan on December 19, 2014

Last December 13, 2014, Primavera Residences personnel have come together in support of the building’s advocacy to a clean and green environment.

In celebration of the National Volunteer Month with the theme “Volunteering for the Environment”, Primavera Residences took the opportunity to care for the environment by successfully conducting a clean-up drive around Pueblo de Oro Business Park’s Trade Street and areas nearby.

“To be part of a sustainable development and joining its advocacies is not just rewarding but also a testimony that Cagayan de Oro’s progress still goes hand in hand with nature. The clean-up drive was fun and fulfilling at the same time. Waking up early for a satisfying reason is truly worth it,” Cesar Stefan Rago, PR & Marketing Coordinator, said.

At exactly 7 o’clock in the morning, Primavera Residences personnel began sweeping and collecting garbage around the area and found out that most of the wastes are cigarette butts, chips and candy wrappers, cellophane, and plastic bottles.

“As an advocate for green living and sustainable development, I found the whole experience very fulfilling because I believe that the small things we do for our environment will bring a great impact in the world. Nothing can compare to the feeling of knowing that you’re making the world a better place to live in, one small act at a time,” Diana Christy Zamora, Marketing Support Officer, said.

Rhapsody Binasbas, one of Primavera’s financial accountants said that it was a wonderful experience giving Mother Earth the care she deserves.

Primavera Residences, which garnered several local and international recognitions for its commitment to green architecture and design, is known for its passive energy-saving features such as cantilevers that protect the units from direct sunlight and an indoor courtyard that maximizes the natural ventilation in the area. The building is also designed to withstand earthquakes and extreme weather conditions.

Sustainable developer ITPI, has invested in alternative locations where nature and the environment has been thoroughly preserved and optimized. Primavera Residences, located in a master planned community in uptown Cagayan de Oro, was built in 2009 and has been effectively on the lead in promoting green advocacies in Cagayan de Oro.

To know more about Primavera Residences and its multi-awarded eco-friendly design, visit www.primaveraresidences.com.

Tag: green technology