4 Simple Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Your Date

Posted by Stefan on February 13, 2015

Valentine’s Day is the occasion when you can bask in the feeling of being in love and celebrate the glory of being loved.

George Elliot once said, “I like not only to be loved, but also to be told I am loved,” and everyone agrees, as nothing warms the heart more than sweet thoughts and declarations of love on this special day. It doesn’t matter if you choose a grand gesture or a simple one, what matters is the thought and effort you put in.

So here are 4 creative ways to tell your loved one “I love you” not just this Valentine’s Day, but every day .

Spend quality time. Go out to a nice restaurant or cook a special dinner. Cuddle on a couch and watch a movie. No matter what your chosen type of activity is, make sure to focus all your attention on your loved one and try to avoid distractions such as surfing the internet, chatting on the phone, or deciding to do other things by yourself or with another group of people.

Make a homemade card. Your Valentine’s Day card will be more meaningful if it’s personalized. Instead of buying a card from a store, make your own and use your own words to express your genuine feelings. Create a poem or a note telling the person how much you love and appreciate him/her.

Candy, chocolate, and sweets. If you are getting something for a woman, get a small box of sweet treats: it’s a no-fail gift albeit a little cliche. For women, there is a popular saying that says “A way to man’s heart is through his stomach”, cook for them or bake them cupcakes. They’d surely love it.

Express your words with a rose. Red roses are a timeless expression of love. If words fail, there are always red roses to convey your feelings.

To spread love and romance this Valentine’s day, Primavera Residences celebrates the special occasion with the #PrimaveraValentineRoses promo. Come, visit and get a FREE red rose on February 14 and get a chance to win an overnight stay at Primavera.

Not only that, Primavera Residences also offers a special Valentine treat for the whole family as buyers this February will get a free getaway trip to Dahilayan for 4 inclusive of an overnight stay and free rides.

We wish you happiness and love on February 14 and everyday!

Do you want to know more about promos and treats from Primavera Residences? Click here.

PH is Asia’s 2nd Fastest Growing Economy in 2014

Posted by Stefan on February 12, 2015

The Philippines ended 2014 on a high note as Asia’s second-fastest growing economy drawing a full-year GDP growth rate of 6.1%. Increasing from 6.3% to 6.9% in the fourth quarter of last year, the Philippines’ solid economic performance brought the country’s GDP growth rate higher than its expected growth in the last quarter of 2014 making it Asia’s fastest-growing economy next to China.

No longer the ‘sick man’ of Asia

In a media briefing at the Philippine Statistics Authority central office in Makati City, NEDA Director and Socio-economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said that the Philippine economy’s performance for 2014 and the preceding years starting in 2010 shows how the Philippines can no longer be called the ‘sick man’ of Asia. “Our economic growth is becoming more competitive with our East and Southeast Asian neighbors”, Balisacan said.

He added, “The growth in the fourth quarter of 2014 appears to be broad-based as all three major productive sectors –the agriculture, industry and services sectors – have shown positive and robust growth during the period”.

This development led J.P. Morgan to revise its 2015 GDP forecast from an earlier projection of 5.4% to 6.4%.

“Upward growth trajectory”

In an emailed statement to GMA News, Finance secretary Cesar Purisima said that the country’s fourth quarter and full year performance “resoundingly affirm its upward growth trajectory buoyed by strong macroeconomic fundamentals”.

“Despite the challenging external environment in the global economy, both the Q4 and full year growth rates exceeded market expectations, lodging the Philippines firmly among the three fastest growing countries in Asia,” he said.

Balisacan also added that the Philippine economy should hit its target of 7% to 8% for 2015, as more public funds are freed up. Falling oil prices and spending for the 2016 elections would also push the economy upward, he said.

“We believe that our economy has moved into a long-term growth path that 7% is quite sustainable and achievable,” he concluded.

5 Useful Tips to Maximize Your Space

Posted by Stefan on February 10, 2015

The rising cost of the real estate assets in the Philippines is generally based in two things: location and size. Especially for properties in prime locations, it is sometimes necessary to downsize in order to achieve a cost-effective investment. In this case, for a condominium unit.

A typical condo unit in the Philippines comes in different sizes and structures that are expectedly smaller than our usual homes, however, this does not imply that condo occupants need to sacrifice the comfort of their property.

Living in a studio or a small apartment (pad) can be quite difficult. There’ll be little space for desired furniture and appliances. This challenge somehow gives the owner an idea to hire professional interior designers, but we know that this can be very expensive. With just the right amount of planning and organizing, maximizing the space in your unit and apartment could be put off easily.

Here are some 5 useful condo design ideas that can maximize the space and make it visually bigger:

Buy things that are dual purpose

Before resorting to any cheats to create an illusion of space, think first of ways on how you can actually make space. Double-purpose furniture, such as sofa beds, allow you to accommodate guests for daytime chit-chat and night time sleep over, without actually wasting space on added furniture. There are also sofa tables where extended chairs are available which could save you a lot of space in your home.

Store things neatly

Small things, when put together, can be potentially big. Your usual clutters may eat up your tabletop and floor space when not arranged accordingly. These refer to your small belongings, cleaning items and tiny figurines and decors.

You may look around for potential storage spaces. Under your bed, a secret cabinet under your couch, or buy a stool that has hidden drawers or compartments. The space under the staircase may be used for shelves and cabinets to hide bigger items such vacuum cleaner and baby stroller.

The brighter, the bigger

Perhaps the most basic step in creating a grand optical illusion is to maximize light. Proper lighting combines the right use of natural and artificial lights. Use lamps to bounce off light towards the ceiling, making it appear higher. Using corner spotlights, instead of a center chandelier, provides added brightness and more visual space. For spotlights, consider using LED bulbs for an energy-efficient home design.

Choose vibrant colors for your furniture

Neutral base paint that matches neutral furnishings can be very dark and boring. Bright and eye-catching furniture such as sofa, throw pillows, curtains and carpets can add texture to your space. It also lets you see the amount of space you have in your unit or apartment.

Looking through

Put on light-colored, thin draperies to allow guests to look through your windows, creating an impression of the outside view as an extension of your home. What’s better than visually pushing back the walls? You can also let the mirror do the trick. Mirrors never fail to create an illusion to make your space look wider. Use them in living room and hallways. Putting these ideas together essentially points out one thing – allow people to look through.

On May 24 last year, Primavera Residences in partnership with Truly Wealthy Realty and interior designer Anna Christina Sagarbarria began a series of workshops that tackled how to maximize small spaces. For details on upcoming events and learning sessions, like the Primavera Residences Official Facebook page or visit www.primaveraresidences.com.

A Round Up of January News and Events at Primavera

Posted by Stefan on February 7, 2015

Hello, February!

As we enter the month of love, Primavera is proud to offer more good news, promos and event opportunities not only for investors, but also treats and delights for your loved ones. January has given us the opportunity to reach out to the larger community and provided career opportunities to the public.

As a pioneering condominium development in Northern Mindanao, it is our pleasure to present to you the news and events we had last January.

Italpinas offers New Year’s Treat to Buyers

The New Year is a good occasion to re-evaluate your portfolio and start hunting for promising new investments. As an early gift this new year, Italpinas offers Php75,000 discounts to the first five buyers only for the month of January 2015.

“For this new year, Italpinas is offering Php75,000 discounts for the first five buyers this January, This is our buena mano treat, aside from the discount upon reservation. You won’t regret investing at Primavera because by January 15, 2015, your investment will appreciate since there will be price adjustments for both towers 1 and 2,” Echano declared.

This buena mano treat appeared in several publications in the city.

tsadagyud.com: http://tsadagyud.com/2015/01/06/italpinas-offers-new-years-treat-to-buyers/

clix.com.ph: http://www.clix.com.ph/italpinas-offers-new-years-treat-buyers/

Business Week Mindanao: http://issuu.com/sudaria_publications/docs/bwm_january_7__2015

Gold Star Daily

2. Singapore’s Luxury Expert impressed by CDO condo

Alexander Karolik Shlaen, one of Asia’s top luxury connoisseurs and CEO of SG’s Panache Management, made it in papers, magazines and televisions talking about the Philippines as the next big thing in the real estate industry.

He visited the Philippines in September 2014 to experience first-hand CdO’s premier green condominium development, Primavera Residences.

Shlaen told Powerplay that he was impressed by Primavera’s modern eco-friendly condo concept despite being located in a secondary city. It’s a move, perhaps a trend, which he and his Singaporean clients would put money into.

3. Primavera to furnish units with paintings by Italian artist

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.

Business Week Mindanao: http://issuu.com/sudaria_publications/docs/bwm_january_16__2015

Gold Star Daily: http://www.goldstardailynews.com.ph/business/primavera-to-furnish-units-with-paintings-by-italian-artist.html

The Cagayan de Oro Times: http://issuu.com/sudaria_publications/docs/cdotimes_january_12-18__2015

4. Primavera offers discount to condotel rates for BWM Loyalty Cardholders

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.

Mindanao Daily News: http://issuu.com/sudaria_publications/docs/northmin_d98a107eb337a9

5. PAF-TOG 10, Various Groups Lead Coastal Clean-up Activity

In accordance with the AFP’s Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan”, which endeavors to engage all sectors in addressing environmental issues, the Tactical Operations Group 10 of the Philippine Air Force headed by LTC Leo Fontanilla PAF (GSC) successfully conducted a coastal clean-up drive at the Mangrove shorelines of Barangay Cugman last Saturday, January 24, with the help of more than 50 participants from various groups in Cagayan de Oro, including Primavera Residences.

Gold Star Daily

6. Italpinas shares advanced selling techniques to XU BSREM students

The 30 pioneering Real Estate Management students of Xavier University opportunely attended the high-impact seminar with distinguished real estate master Jun Garing, at Primavera Residences last January 28, 2015.

Spurred by the rise in the country’s real estate industry and the move towards building in alternative locations, Cagayan de Oro has recently seen a rise in the number of real estate developments. Condominium buildings are one of the most sought-after developments in the city, which make it more attractive to people who have eyes set on property ownership and investment.

clix.com.ph: http://www.clix.com.ph/italpinas-shares-advanced-selling-techniques-xu-bsrem-students/

cdodev.com: http://www.cdodev.com/2015/01/29/italpinas-shares-advanced-selling-techniques-to-xu-bsrem-students/

Follow Primavera Residences in Facebook to stay posted with news and events from the country’s premier eco-friendly property.

Italpinas Offers Dahilayan Getaway for February Buyers

Posted by Stefan on February 3, 2015

Are you looking for a good investment for your loved ones this February? This love month, Italpinas offers a double win treat to buyers as they get a free getaway trip to Dahilayan for 4 inclusive of an overnight stay and free rides.

“As a thank you gift for investing with us, and since it’s Valentine season, we will be treating the whole family to an adventure with free accommodation at Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon,” Gladys Magadan-Echano, Sales Director, said.

Dahilayan Forest Park and Resort is a tourist destination that offers an array of fun activities for the whole family, and for all ages. Located at Barangay Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich Bukidnon, Dahilayan Forest Park is nestled at the foot of Mount Kitanglad 4,700 ft. above sea level. Forest Park was built with the vision of helping develop the tourism industry in Northern Mindanao and the whole Philippines as well.

“Aside from the investment opportunity in owning a unit at the multi-awarded Primavera Residences, as an added perk, you can also enjoy a weekend getaway with the family, away from busy city life to enjoy family bonding,” Echano said.

Primavera Residences, developed by Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation – a sustaining member of the Philippine Green Building Council – is the first eco-friendly condominium in Northern Mindanao. Its unique modern design, conceptualized by a multi-awarded Italian architect, is a perfect mix of form and function rewarding you with an eco-friendly home and helping you save on your electricity bills

Located in Pueblo Business Park in uptown Cagayan de Oro, Primavera Residences is at the center of many important establishments, like SM CdO, universities, a world-class golf course and many more.

Do you want to know more about property? You may call (088) 880-5002 or 0917-794-2221 and visit its page here.

Primavera’s La Rondine Hall Open for Public Use

Posted by Stefan on February 2, 2015

Primavera Residences Condominium Corporation officially opens to the public La Rondine Hall as a new venue in Cagayan de Oro catering to parties, events, training and learning sessions, among others. La Rondine Hall is also a venue for art appreciation, providing an avenue for local artists to showcase their art works.

Formerly Primavera’s multi-purpose hall, La Rondine has been a venue for social gatherings, trainings, seminars and art exhibits. Now that it has opened its doors to the public, more people can experience Primavera as an alternative venue in uptown Cagayan de Oro.

“La Rondine which is Italian for Barn Swallow is a bird that returns to Italy during spring season, or Primavera. It is mainly for this reason that we opted to use the name,” ITPI CEO and Arch. Romolo Nati explained.

La Rondine is a migrant bird that is known to gracefully dart over fields and open water. With its shiny cobalt blue top mixed with tawny feathers underneath, this agile flier comes back to Italy at Primavera, when the countryside is brimming with colors and nature is at its best.

Provided with a 90 sq. m. floor area and decorated with a variety of artworks (for display and for sale), La Rondine Hall is suited for versatile events such as birthday parties, learning sessions, yoga parties to mention some.

“We offer our clients with an affordable deal of P750 per hour. This is inclusive of hall, electricity charges, and maintenance personnel assistance. There are no corkage fees also,” Jelly Galleto, Primavera Residences Property Manager said.

La Rondine Hall can accommodate up to 80-100 people.

To know more about Primavera’s La Rondine Hall, call 088-880-8001 or you may go here.

Cool fact:

Did you know that the barn swallow has a legend of its own?

According to an old legend, La Rondine got its forked tail because it stole fire from the gods to bring to mankind. An angry deity hurled a firebrand at the swallow, singeing away its middle tail feathers.

What Makes it More Fun in Cagayan de Oro?

Posted by Stefan on January 23, 2015

kagay-an-festival-street-dancing-3 — Photo by Tom Udasco

Being the gateway hub that connects the city to the rest of the region and other neighboring provinces, Cagayan de Oro City indeed offers big opportunities for a very promising future. From street food to restaurants to scenic views to adventure, Cagayan de Oro is the place to be.

As the gateway of Northern Mindanao, Cagayan de Oro is also proud to be dubbed as the “adventure capital” in the Philippines. After all, it is home to the most scenic and exhilarating whitewater rafting in the country.

Also tagged to be the city of “golden friendship”, the Kagay-anons are some of the friendliest folks around. In fact, the city is one of the more colorful ground zero for the many cultures in the Philippines where Christians, Catholics, Muslims, foreigners and various mestizos in equal concentrations.

Let me show you why it’s more fun in CdO and truly a unique travel destination according to the official website of It’s more Fun in the Philippines.

1. Cagayan de Oro’s much talked-about whitewater rafting and river trekking make it the premier whitewater destination in the country. The Cagayan de Oro River is famed for challenging rapids that quickly follow one after the other. It’s really an experience like no other and well worth the initial scare. They say the wild river helps you discover your inner strength and endurance. Nice! Character-building fun!

2. Still not enough thrills for you? Make sure you visit the Macahambus Hill Cave and Gorge.The Battle of Macahambus Hill was the first Filipino victory against the Americans. Admire the view from the 120-meter long Sky Bridge suspended 120 feet from the ground, and then take the 120-meter breathtaking zipline.

wandering grace — Photo source: wanderinggrace.com

3. More action-packed fun awaits you at Jatico Adventures. A five-course zipline, ATV rides, and hiking trails are among the many things on offer.

its more fun — Photo source: itsmorefuninthephilippines.com

4. Not to be missed are the Mapawa Nature Park for its waterfalls, trekking, and rappelling.

It’s not all thrill rides though. What’s a great adventure without culture and heritage?

5. Understand local customs and traditions at the Museo de Oro. Or acquaint yourself with the people of Northern Mindanao at the Museum of Three Culturesand the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village for its showcase of tribal houses set amidst nature trails.

nomadic experiences — Photo source: nomadicexperiences.com

6. At the General MacArthur Marker, you’ll learn more about the role played by Cagayan de Oro in history and about US General MacArthur, one of the most important figures of World War II.

7. Admire the centuries-old stained glass panels of the Gothic Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral. While nearby, the tree-lined Gaston Park is a relaxing haven in the city.

lakat travel — Photo source: lakat-travel.blogspot.com

8. In Cagayan de Oro, the month of August is synonymous with the Kagay-an Festival. This almost two week-long celebration has a carnival-like atmosphere, and is dedicated to its patron, St. Augustine. It’s a full-blast party, with activities such as agricultural trade fairs and a cultural street dancing parade and competition. The highlight of the celebration is the Golden Float Parade. Make sure to bring your shades! The bright colors will dazzle you.

kagay-an-festival-street-dancing-4 — Photo by Tom Udasco

Cagayan de Oro has something for the eco-tourist as well as the sports lover. So, grab your backpacks and head to where nature’s beauty will thrill you. This happy place could very well leave you with a smile on your face.

Do you need a place to stay for your Cagayan de Oro vacation? Check out the units for rent at Primavera Residences! You can choose between sunrise or sunset view from your very own picture-perfect balcony and window for a thoroughly relaxing vacation. For more information, go to www.primaveraresidences.com.

Primavera Invites Guests to a Weekly Open House

Posted by Stefan on January 21, 2015

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.

Primavera Offers Discount on Condotel Rates for BWM Loyalty Cardholders

Posted by Stefan on January 19, 2015

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.

Why Pursue a Career in Sales?

Posted by Stefan on January 15, 2015

Are you tired of your current work? Do you feel that you’re not growing with your career? Or do you feel that you could accomplish more and earn a lot in the process?

Everyone aspires to land a high-paying job. While most of us decide to earn a living overseas to elevate the living standard of our families, others choose to stay in our country and explore different career opportunities locally.

Whether you’re just leaving school, finding opportunities limited in your current position or, like many in this economy, facing unemployment, it may be time to consider your career path. By learning how to research options, realize your strengths, and acquire new skills, as well as muster the courage to make a change, you can discover the career that’s right for you.

Even if you’re trapped in a position you don’t love, with no realistic opportunity for change, there are still ways to find more joy and satisfaction in what you do.

If you’re looking to experience life in the fast lane, sales careers can offer people high rewards, plenty of travel and exciting challenges. A career in Sales can also provide opportunities to gain professional training and recognized qualifications.

Sales skills are highly transferable, and a successful sales career often open doors to management positions. Most of the high paying jobs in the Philippines are in companies with professional salespeople.

Sales professionals use problem-solving skills to understand, anticipate and meet customers’ needs. Their solutions involve selling one or more of their products or services to customer ranging from private individuals to governments and international businesses.

Real Estate Selling

According to the report from GMA News, the retail real estate in the Philippines is among the key growth areas in Southeast Asia. Its increasing middle class segment, positive economic growth outlook and growing tourism activities has brought the Philippines, along with SEA countries Vietnam and major cities in Indonesia and Malaysia, a key growth market for real estate.

According to the study made by Trading Economics, in October 2014, the employment rate is estimated at 94%, greater from 93.6% in 2013. This means that in the Philippine setting, there are higher opportunity rate since investments are rising in the country.

Cited as the 2nd Most Competitive City in the Philippines, Cagayan de Oro City has rising real estate market. Most developers enter the city for its sound and serene environment which the higher class is looking for an investment.

Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation (ITPI) is an Italian-Filipino company that designs and develops sustainable property developments nationwide and Primavera Residences, its flagship development in CdO, recently won in the 2014 Asia Pacific Property Awards in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The locally- and internationally-acclaimed developer offers once in a lifetime high-impact real estate sales seminar and workshop with a distinguished master of real estate selling. Join now and be part of the highly competitive list of future salespeople. This 3-day seminar will tackle the topics on:

How to tap the global market
Lifestyle selling for the Lock and Leave mobile society
Investment selling
Buyer-based selling for a discriminating market
What distinguishes a great sales person from the average and good sellers

Do you want to know more about the mutli-awarded development? Click here.

Tag: Cagayan de Oro accommodation