Earth Hour 2015: Use #YourPower to Change Climate Change

WE ARE ONE DAY AWAY TO A BETTER PLANET!

On March 28, Saturday, at exactly 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm, we celebrate this global switch-off event called Earth Hour together with millions of citizens across the globe. For an hour, everyone in the world will switch off their lights to show their commitment in caring about the future of our planet and the pressing threats of climate change.

Hundreds of cities around the world will participate, and some of the most famous landmarks of the world will go dark as well— the dramatic lights of the Eiffel Tower, the Coliseum, and the Big Ben will impressively go dark for a better future.

Through this initiative, we are showing concern about what’s happening to our planet and paves the opportunity for everyone to act upon what’s right and what’s needed.

All countries have to elevate their efforts in our common fight against climate change. There is no other time to move as one and act upon our goal to a better planet, but TODAY.

Our time is now

“We are the first generation to feel the impact of climate change and the last generation to do something about it,” H.E. Barrack Obama said in one of his speeches.

As the first and only sustainable condominium development in Northern Mindanao, Primavera Residences is one with the world in committing to a better planet to live in.

To fully address human rights and climate change problems, the world asks for your help and the help of the billions of people to participate in this fulfilling event of our lives.

So, when you switch off your lights on Saturday, remember that this year’s Earth Hour is time to think about the world, about the people, and about us. This is the time to act and engage ourselves to make a huge difference in our planet.

Use #YourPower to change climate change.

Do you want to know more about Primavera Residences green advocacies? You may click here.

What’s Next for Your Child After Graduation?

What's Next for Your Child After Graduation?

This is it.

He just graduated.

He finally moved to life after college.

Congratulations for making it this far! Congratulations on the achievement! Indeed, graduating from college is a major breakthrough; that is why most students see college as a major goals, when in reality it is simply a stepping stone to other future life triumphs. Figuring out who they are and what they value the most are just some of the considerations of the adventure they’ll take after college. The next questions will be, “What’s next for you after college?” and “What lies ahead?

After college, they will probably encounter critical issues they need to deal with as they discover the transition from college to career and to living independently.

Dilemma 1: Career A, B, or C?

Many newly-grads are still undecided on what specific career they’re going to take. Even if we say we are as sure as a bullet, guess what? Career experts say that an average person switches careers (not jobs) for four to five times over his lifetime.

Next question is, where would they go from here? For almost everyone, getting the very first job after graduation can seem a big challenge. With little to no practical experience, they may feel they’re in a weak position competing in a job market populated by all sorts of candidates whose varying numbers of work years make them seem more favorable.

For a first-time job-seeker, your child should ensure that they’re tying up with an employer who has the foundation to provide the right training and support. Remember, having a solid start is essential to build a successful career, and it only can be accomplished through working for employers who see the potential in young graduates rather than looking solely at the savings that can be made by hiring them.

The next step: Where will they live upon graduation?

Yes, your child may have just spent the last four years in dorms. Or maybe he have lived off-campus with a friend or two in an apartment. Now that graduation is near, he may have already found a place to live, or decided to move back home with you, still the decision is still in your hands considering some reasons and consequences.

Before deciding to let them live independently after college, you should get into consideration all of your options. Some of the questions that might bug you before purchasing or leasing a place to stay are: “What can I afford? Where do I actually want them to live? What do I need in an apartment or a house?”

Living alone definitely equip them to have a better life ahead. Taking off from college would not just help them become responsible and independent, it helps them build an investment over their character. Though it will be challenging but it’ll be worth the battle, I promise.

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Have you decided to let your child live independently after college? Click here for more reasons why you should consider a condo unit as a graduation gift. 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, BWM Promote Local News to Condo Renters

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Primavera Residences recently established a partnership with the Business Week Mindanao Group, providing its clients with a daily supply of relevant business news and current events in the region.

“As an added benefit to Primavera condo unit renters, they will now be delivered news about the city’s progress and developments right at their doorstep. Through BWM newspapers, we give our clients access to the current trends and investment news in CdO.” Franz Enriquez, Leasing Manager, said.

The Business Week Mindanao (BWM) group has been in the frontline in providing Mindanao with business and economy reports. Its flagship newspaper, BusinessWeek Mindanao has won several awards including Philippine Press Institute’s (PPI) Best in Business and Economic Reporting in 2013 for its regular sections on banking and finance, local economy, and corporations that provide a comprehensive view of the business and economic issues and trends in the region.

“BusinessWeek Mindanao is one with us in promoting Cagayan de Oro City as a prime investment location. This partnership aims to provide positive news of the city’s progress and developments to visitors and guests of Primavera Residences,” Jane Duterte, PR and Marketing Manager expressed.

Long-term and short-term condo rental

Primavera Residences, a 10-storey condominium property in uptown Cagayan de Oro, offers serviced apartments with hotel-like services that are a less expensive and homier option for visiting businessmen and travelers.

All the units for rent are fully fitted with kitchen, cable TV, refrigerator, and air conditioning. Amenities include a green inner courtyard for natural lighting and ventilation, 24-7 security, CCTV, indoor pool, gym, function hall, laundry station, and twin elevators. Located in the booming business and commercial area in uptown Cagayan de Oro, it is just walking distance to SM City CdO, and easily accessible to public transportation, and near a world-class golf course.

“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 and live in a modern accommodation fitted with comfortable amenities. Whether visiting Cagayan de Oro for business or pleasure, Primavera is an ideal place to stay,” Enriquez said.

Primavera Residences is owned and developed by Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-Development Corporation (ITPI). Its eco-friendly features include cantilevers that protect the units from direct sunlight and an indoor courtyard that maximizes the natural ventilation in the area. The twin towers will soon be fitted with photovoltaic solar panels that will generate power for the common areas. Because of its green features, it won in the 2014-2015 Asia Pacific Property Awards held in Kuala Lumpur for Best Mixed-Use Development in the Philippines.

“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 and its partners? You may reach them at (088) 880-5002 or 0917 794 2221. You can also access their website by clicking here.

Tips to Protect Your Homes from Natural Calamities

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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.

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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).
  1. 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.

Italpinas Offers Graduation Promo for March Buyers

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In time for graduation month, Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation, developer of 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.

“This is the right time to celebrate the academic success our children have achieved. In return for all the hard work and efforts they exerted in school, Italpinas encourages buyers to give graduates the gift of independence they deserve as they move forward to a new chapter in their lives. This March, we offer not only a huge discount but also a graduation blowout at Bigby’s SM CDO branch,” Gladys Echano, Sales Director, said.

Graduation is not only a major milestone for students, but also an indication of how parents were able to succeed in equipping and giving the best they have to offer to their children. This turning point in their lives needs to be celebrated with the entire family and given the appreciation it deserves. For this, Primavera Residences has the perfect gift and celebration promo in store.

“Sooner or later, our graduates will need a breath of fresh air. They will soon ask for their independence. This is the perfect time to invest at the first sustainable condominium development in CdO, Primavera Residences,” Echano expressed.

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.

Because of its eco-friendly features, Primavera Residences won its latest award at the 2014 Asia Pacific regional competition of the prestigious International Property Awards in the Mixed-Use Development category.

Potential unit buyers can call or visit Primavera Residences for inquiries and present a proof of graduation upon unit purchase to avail of the additional graduation treat. The graduation blowout may be claimed exclusively at Bigby’s SM CDO branch from March 1 until April 30 only.

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.

Italpinas Joins CLENRO-led Mangrove Activity at Bonbon

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Last February 7, Saturday, the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CLENRO), together with several groups in CdO, lead the Mangrove planting activity and also paved the way to replant damaged mangrove seedlings at the coastal area of Barangay Bonbon. The activity was supported by at least 50 participants who planted more than 100 mangrove seedlings around the shoreline.

On October 11, 2014, Primavera Residences team went to the same coastal area in Barangay Bonbon and joined the mangrove planting activity conducted by Philippine Air Force TOG 10 and students from the Misamis Oriental General Comprehensive High School (MOGCHS).

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“We all know that mangrove forests provide protection and shelter against extreme weather events, such as storm winds and floods. That is why this eco-friendly activity is perfect for a coastal city like Cagayan de Oro,” Gisselle Mantilla, ITPI Admin Officer, said.

In the case of Cagayan de Oro which has been hit several times with super typhoons, mangroves provide a buffer against extreme weather conditions like storms, tsunamis, cyclones, and floods.

With the wide array of mangroves protecting the shoreline, it could definitely benefit the coastal communities that are prone to calamities in CdO for mangrove trees absorb and disperse tidal surges.

“We plant mangroves for the benefit of the city’s residents. We sustain our environment for the greater good of the community. We develop our community through the efforts of these committed institutions. We may have started it but one day, little will we know, everyone is with us changing CdO, changing the Philippines,” Jecris Salon, ITPI Financial Accountant, expressed.

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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 advocacy? Call 0917-794-2221 or visit its website here.

 

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Italpinas, Habitat Conduct Tree Planting Activity at Camaman-an

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Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation (ITPI), together with its realty partners and Habitat for Humanity Philippines, successfully conducted a tree planting activity at Macapaya, Upper Camaman-an last January 31, 2015. Together with the community, the group planted 100 seedlings of fruit-bearing trees such as rambutan, jack fruit, marang and guyabano.

“We are not just a company who build sustainable properties, we also rebuild communities through our green advocacies. Through these projects, we know we can bring people together in attaining our goals in ensuring environmental sustainability,” Gladys Echano, ITPI Sales Director, said in her speech.

The tree planting activity was joined by the Macapaya Hills Oro Settlers Association Inc. (MAHOSAI) members with their president, Augustus Abcede, “Nowadays, we are blessed to have such environment-friendly companies that help us pursue our goal in sustaining what’s left in our environment and rebuilding anew. This is a testimony of hope, chance and community development,” he noted during his remarks.

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Just recently, Mindanao has set a new world record for the most trees planted in an hour. With 3.2 million seedlings, a mix of forest varieties and commercial crops, were sown as part of a national forestation program. The activity has won a Guinness World Record which succeeded India from its 1.9 million seedlings in an hour.

The Philippines, a once densely-forested archipelago, has lost much of its forest cover due to development, logging and slash-and-burn farming which led to constant flooding and landslides in areas in Mindanao and Visayas.

“Trees promote life. Not only do trees produce oxygen, they also provide homes for animals, replace soil nitrates, prevent erosion and more. These fruit-bearing trees will tremendously change our lives not only for environmental benefits but also provide us a livelihood we soon can count on,” Drexel Luzon, Community Development Program Coordinator of Habitat for Humanity Philippines, expressed.

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Primavera Residences’ developer, Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation (ITPI), which has been in the forefront of sustainable development and passive green architecture, won numerous local and international awards for its high-performance design. Featuring the best principles of passive cooling technology: shadow and sunlight control, wind cooling and shape performance, the project has been cited as one of Asia’s top 10 clean energy projects because of its capacity to help residents save as much as 32% on overall energy consumption.

“The experience was totally overwhelming being able to spend my time with my colleagues and live the company’s advocacy. This has not only given me the chance to plant more trees, but it has given me the opportunity to help rebuild our community again,” Gisselle Mantilla, Admin Officer, said.

Marissa Olaer, on the other hand, shared that she has always been in awe with Primavera’s active support in sustaining the natural environment. “The green building, indeed, lives by its advocacy by creating not only sustainable buildings but letting its partners experience how it is to really be eco-friendly. As a broker, I am not just overwhelmed, I have high respect to this company,” she added.

The multi-awarded building is 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.

Do you want to know more about the building’s advocacy? Click here.

 

 

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5 Mobile Apps Promoting Green Living

Mobile

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.

3 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid in Condo Hunting

Hunting4Condo

People are now looking at the financial benefits to owning an investment condominium unit which shed light on why more people are jumping on the bandwagon.

First off, real estate is a great long-term investment. Although there might be short-term fluctuations in the market, but condo prices will surely increase over time and usually at a greater rate than inflation. Also in having a rental income, it is a great way to pay down your mortgage and build equity. Even if you just break even at first, odds are you’ll end up with a monthly cash flow as the cost of your mortgage goes down and the cost of renting goes up.

Although investing in a condominium make great investment opportunities, there are potential pitfalls along the way that could seriously derail your plans. Be sure to avoid these 3 rookie mistakes:

  1. Wrong choice of a real estate developer

When shopping around for a new condo, find out who built it. You may not be able to see its worth but this can have a surprising impact on the quality of your investment. Make sure to do a builder background check to ensure your developer has high standards for both quality and design. Look up for professional ratings, check their website, and get opinions from friends and relatives, to mention some. This will help ensure your investment stands the test of time.

Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation (ITPI), an Italian-Filipino joint venture which focuses in sustainable developments, has built its locally- and internationally-acclaimed flagship development, Primavera Residences, in Cagayan de Oro. Find out more about ITPI and Primavera Residences.

  1. Undesirable choice of location

Buying a new investment unit is about more than just the condo’s price tag. If you find a cheap condo in an undesirable area, you might have trouble finding a renter let alone reselling the place. As a good rule of thumb, only buy a new investment condo that you would be happy to live in yourself. Is it located in a good neighborhood? Is it close to public transportation? Are there good leisure and entertainment areas nearby? Are there decent restaurants near the area? If you answered yes, then you shouldn’t have a problem in renting out your unit.

In Cagayan de Oro, the uptown area is still underrated yet considered to be the “Makati City” in Northern Mindanao. According to the Chairman of Multiplata Investments, Lorens Ziller, CdO is well-recognized by those who can afford to live in upper class communities and subdivisions. Uptown Cagayan de Oro is the lifestyle you’ll need if you crave fresh air, flood-free and spacious communities, accessible shopping facilities, little-to-no traffic, and a good view of nature.

  1. Selecting the wrong tenant

If you’re considering renting out your condo unit, do everything in your power to ensure you’re handing your unit keys to a tenant you can fully trust. A condo unit is a huge investment after all, and the point is to gain from your investment—not to spend it on unnecessary repairs. Spend time to assess the applicants to the best of your ability through credit checks, quality references from previous landlords, and by meeting them in person. To also protect your investment, it’s a good idea to draft a comprehensive lease agreement that covers for damages, and to request proof of contents insurance prior to allowing renters to move in.

The Asset Management Program of Primavera Serviced Residences gives the unit owner the hassle-free handling of their investment. Through this in-house program, your investment will be properly handled by a skilled management team from marketing your investment to eligible tenants up to monitoring your investment for you.

Do you want to know more about the project? Click here.

 

Primavera Invites Guests to a Weekly Open House

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Do you want to see and experience Italian elegance in Cagayan de Oro’s multi-awarded sustainable condominium?  Primavera Residences invites guests to a weekly open house every Saturdays from 1PM-5PM.

“Experience the condominium lifestyle as we bring forth Cagayan de Oro to a whole new level of living. As a city of growth and advancement, we offer to you the most worthwhile investment you could ever get,” Jun Garing, a real estate expert, said.

Every Saturday afternoon, guests will be treated to snacks, freebies, and a tour of the facilities to view the units of Primavera Residences and enjoy the scenic views from what is considered to be Cagayan de Oro’s highest peak.

“See for yourself why Primavera is a locally and internationally-acclaimed development of Italpinas,” Garing expressed.

Primavera Residences’ developer, Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation (ITPI), an Italian-Filipino real estate firm, specializes in green architecture and design which brought in recognitions and awards globally.

The green building is furnished with energy-saving features such as cantilevers that protect the units from direct sunlight, thereby reducing temperature inside the building, and an indoor courtyard that maximizes natural ventilation and lighting. Solar panels will also be installed at the roof deck by June 2015 to power the building’s common areas. The mixed-use property also employs high-performance design, ensuring that the building will be able to withstand earthquakes and extreme weather conditions.

Last year, Primavera Residences was recognized as the Best Mixed-Use Development in the Philippines for 2014-2015 by the International Property Awards at the Asia Pacific Property Summit in Kuala Lumpur.

“Grab this opportunity to own a unit at the pioneering condo development in Cagayan de Oro. We only have few units left, that’s for sure,” Garing concluded.

For inquiries about the weekly open house, please call 0917-794-2221, 088-880-5002; or talk to our accredited realty partners and agents.

Do you want to know more about the building? Visit Primavera Residences by checking out our website here.