Earth Hour: More than just a Global Switch-off

Posted by Stefan on March 25, 2015

March 28, 2015, Saturday.

All homes and establishments across the Philippines will go dark on Saturday evening. Earth hour, as the annual lights-out event is called, will happen this Saturday, March 28, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

Earth Hour began in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, when the World Wildlife Fund organized 2.2 million people to dim their lights to signify their concern for the planet. Since then, the event has grown immensely. Then in the later years, Earth Hour 2013, the event drew participants from 7,000 cities and more than 150 countries and the Philippines is one of them.

The Philippines has been an active participant in this global grass roots movement since 2008 with the participation of known business establishments, schools and individuals. Led by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in the Philippines, Earth hour aims to unite the world to take action for the planet against climate change.

More than just a switch-off

In 2014, Earth Hour became the world’s largest crowd funding and crowdsourcing movements. It has supported many projects including the construction of fiberglass boats in the Philippines. Because of this, the Philippine government is inviting all Filipinos to participate in this year’s Earth Hour and take part in changing the world for the better.

This year, according to DENR Sec. Ramon Jesus Paje, funds raised through Earth Hour will be used to provide portable solar lamps to remote communities in Palawan which are not connected to any source of electricity.

Though the whole situation of climate change won’t be solved after an hour, the organizers believe switching off from our usual wasteful habits and switching on to clean, renewable energy paves more possibilities to a better future.

Yes, Earth Hour is more than just a global switch-off.

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Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation’s (ITPI) flagship sustainable condominium development in Cagayan de Oro, Primavera Residences, fully supports the goals of Earth Hour. Being one of Cagayan de Oro’ green advocates, the green building is designed with eco-friendly features that help reduce the residents’ electricity consumption.

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

PH Real Estate Industry Expected to Boom this 2015

Posted by Stefan on March 23, 2015

For the past years, there has been a consistent upward trend for the country’s real estate industry and its constant growth seems to go on this 2015.

Developers and analysts have kept a positive outlook and have foreseen a better and exciting real estate industry in 2015. Major factors such as the ASEAN integration, investment upgrade, the higher demand on BPOs and OFWs are solidifying the real estate market this year.

Office

The rising BPO industry fills up most office spaces in the country. These significant boost is all because of the recently achieved investment upgrade which gave confidence to multinational corporations that are looking for more investments and branching out in the country.

Hongkong and Singapore will be branching out to the Philippines as the ASEAN integration paves way for the office real estate sector in the country. This year, the main challenge for the office market would be keeping up with the demand when more international and ASEAN companies begin seeking properties in the country.

Last 2014, several corporate plazas and buildings are pre-sold and turned-over across the country. Currently, there is a fresh batch of supply being developed, and a weighty number of units will be turned over within the year. These business hubs are vital in spreading the economic growth in the country.

Commercial

The commercial sector in real estate is expected to boom this year. The corporate bigwigs have continuously raised the bar by expanding and upgrading many of their world-class malls and hotels. International brands, on the other hand, are finding their way in the country. Much like the office real estate sector, the ASEAN integration will rake in more brands to invest and put up their branches within the country.

Other players are also planning to step up their game in 2015. The retail industry are planning to invest billions in the next five year. With the continuous growth on OFW remittances, the Philippines have stepped up in BPOs and consistent in economic growth.

Residential

The Chamber of Real Estate and Builders Association (CREBA), the country’s largest organization of key players in the domestic real estate industry, sees the Philippines grow further because of the ASEAN integration and the region’s increasing role in the global economy.

As the ASEAN integration will transform the economic landscape of the whole region, the demand for residential spaces adjacent to malls, retail centers, and other recreational spaces would rise since the elimination of tariffs on goods and services by a single ASEAN economy could drive consumers spend higher.

Currently, there is a sky-rocketing demand coming from low- to mid-income markets. Buyers from this bracket are purchasing properties as end-users, not as investors. Driving this demand are retirees and OFWs who are either planning to settle back in the country, or are purchasing for their family members.

The BSP recently announced that they will be releasing a housing price index in 2015 to prevent the property market from overheating which also support the increasing demand that keeps this sector flexible.

Are you looking for office, commercial or residential spaces? You may visit Cagayan de Oro’s first and only sustainable condo property, Primavera Residences. Click here for more information about the property or you may call 0917 794 2221 or (088) 880-5002.

Why a Condominium Lifestyle is Fit for You

Posted by Stefan on March 20, 2015

There are better place to live in, because at the end of the day, we deserve to live better. Condominiums are changing the way we live, or change the way we want to live. We work hard enough to dream of a better place we can come home to, right?

There is a consistent rise in property developments especially in mid and high rise residential condominiums. These just show that more and more Filipinos are embracing the condo life.

A lot has closed their minds with the concept of condominiums. Say a box, or killing yourself of claustrophobia. But the truth is, the comforts and benefits of condo living are simply irresistible.

Budget? Not a problem.

In the Philippines, to own a condo unit, especially in a prime location, it will cost you around Php 1.5-2 million. But if you intend to rent out a fully furnished unit, an average condo unit will cost you Php 15,000-20,000 a month. Living in a condo unit or vertical living, as they call it, can be relatively be cheaper. Buying one will not just guarantee safety and class, but you’re guaranteed a package and it’s a very good one.

Horizontal living, on the other hand, subjects you to build a house and buy a lot. Apart from that, you will also be needing an architect, engineer, contractors and carpenters, and even an interior designer. However, with condos, the developer handles all that. They will also help you get approved on bank financing and home loans. All you have to do is sit and relax while they do all the work for you.

If you are a young professional, or newly-wed trying to start a family, living in a condominium will save you money on going to parks, gym, and recreation venues. To enjoy these privileges, all you have to do is pay on what we call association dues. But then you won’t ever have to worry about security, maintenance of these amenities and leisure areas, and garbage collection—all of these are handled by the property management.

Perfect location to a great life ahead

The prime consideration in which condominiums are best at is choosing the right location. Condo developments are usually in the middle of busy business districts, so you can save gas and transportation expenses.

Nothing beats condo living in terms of convenience. You don’t have to worry about living safely because CCTV cameras are installed almost everywhere.

Not because you live in a small place does not mean you have to compromise your lifestyle, you can invite friends anytime for a pool party. You can take your kids to the playground or walk your dog to the park. You don’t have to pay to get fit because condominiums usually have their gym facilities. And while you are at the heart of living in a city, you don’t have to feel all tired and wasted because there are plenty of leisure activities available. A good condo in a good location is the answer to that.

Home in Uptown Cagayan de Oro, Philippines

In the city which is cited to be 2014’s 2^nd Most Competitive City in the country, Cagayan de Oro has rapidly developed in the recent years. Uptown Cagayan de Oro is consistent in attracting high quality businesses that serve the public with excellent services and products.

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 enclosed 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 completed early next year. Buyers may choose from studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units.

Do you want to know more about Primavera Residences, you may contact them at (088) 880-5002 or 0917-794-2221 or visit their websit by clicking here.

What’s Next for Your Child After Graduation?

Posted by Stefan on March 19, 2015

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.

Oro Sustainable Developer Partners with Syagit 2015

Posted by Stefan on March 16, 2015

Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation (ITPI), Primavera Residences’ developer, partners with XU DevCom as they exhibit various communication materials to pursue their campaigns on ecological protection and the informed choices for a healthy choices. With the theme Sampit sa dapit, I-syagit, senior DevCom students address the city’s prominent issues through campaign materials adhering to the voices of the underserved.

“It’s payback time,” says Mia Lluisma, Syagit 2015 Overall Head, “This March 10-12, SYAGIT 2015 offers a variety of communication materials that feature food security and environmental protection. These materials provide information in the hope that the residents and the government take the necessary actions to address the issues on environmental degradation and food security.”

The theme for this year’s SYAGIT is divided into two, which are focused on the campaigns on food security and environmental protection. The campaign on food security through posters and infographics could help spread awareness on the issue on food scarcity and hunger and to also promote sustainable agriculture in the city. On the other hand, the campaign in environmental protection is addressed through posters and newsletters that were gathered from the different communities in the city. All of these materials will be incorporated in the different campaigns of the communities to actively spread awareness the city’s prominent concerns.

“As communicators for the city’s development, SYAGIT aims to awaken the spirits of Kagay-anons in addressing the growing problems in the city and to act on them,” Ariana Pagdanganan, Marketing Head Syagit 2015, said.

Primavera, front-runner in promoting green advocacies in CdO

As the first eco-friendly property in Cagayan de Oro, Primavera Residences a front-runner in promoting and supporting green advocacies in the city. Also committed in sustainable properties, Primavera makes sure to fully support projects that stimulates environmental campaigns in the city.

Primavera Residences’ developer, Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation (ITPI), won numerous local and international awards for its contemporary design with natural airflow through inner spaces, and architectural elements designed precisely for the location’s latitude to shade the building’s surface from the sun throughout the year. 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 air-conditioning energy consumption.

The multi-awarded building is located in a master planned community in uptown Cagayan de Oro and has supported several sustainable projects that promotes eco-friendliness and community development. It has also been effectively on the lead in supporting sustainable projects in the city.

Do you want to know more about the green building’s advocacy? Call them at (088) 880-5002 and 0917 794 2221 or you may visit our website here.

More photos:

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.

Primavera Congratulates #PrimaveraValentineRoses Winner

Posted by Stefan on March 9, 2015

How’s March coping up with you so far?

We hope it has been doing a great job in giving your surprises because as far as we are concerned, we at Primavera Residences, give surprises you weren’t even expecting.

To the people who visited Primavera Residences last February 14 for the #PrimaveraValentineRoses, our deepest gratitude for taking your time and making an effort to surprise your loved one with a rose. Like any other contests, it should come to an end.

So without further ado, we present to you #PrimaveraValentineRoses winner who gets to spend an overnight stay at Primavera Residences. Congratulations to…

*drumroll*

CONGRATULATIONS to Mr. and Mrs. Brick Suazo for this genuine and happy Valentine picture with your cute little kid. You won an overnight stay at Primavera Residences together with your wife and your charming kid.

To claim your prize, please don’t hesitate to message us in Primavera Residences Facebook Page or text/call Stefan thru +63 917 864 4011 and we will be very happy to assist you.

To all the participants, Primavera would like to thank you for joining #PrimaveraValentineRoses contest.

Hey, don’t be sad as there are more exciting games coming up!

This March, watch out for more thrilling activities in our Facebook page. As we celebrate the month of graduation, our #GameDayWednesday gives you the chance to win a pampering package.

Not only that, Italpinas gives you the biggest treat you could ever receive for the graduation season as you get a P70,000 worth of discount for March buyers. Hep hep, for those who have graduating family members, you could also avail the P5,000 treat at Bigby’s SM CdO.

I can see those smiles, ey. Just watch out for more exciting surprises and treats from the one and only eco-friendly property in Northern Mindanao!

To know more about Primavera Residences, the internationally-awarded property in Cagayan de Oro, go here.

Mindanao Pushes for More Renewable Energy Supply

Posted by Stefan on March 9, 2015

During the recent 5^th Mindanao Power Monitoring Committee Principals’ Meeting at the National Power Corporation Board Room, key players in the power sector stressed the importance of pursuing renewable energy as prominent source of electricity in Mindanao.

“There are good things coming for Mindanao and power is one of them,” Secretary Luwalhati Antonino, chair of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), said in her opening statement.

Compared to last year’s power state, this year has seen significant progress with the immediate and medium term measures, stressing that majority of the cities in Mindanao did not have rotating power outage as reported by the Association of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperative (AMRECO).

Antonino said that there are 231 renewable energy projects spread across Mindanao that could potentially generate at least 2,419 megawatts of sustainable power supply for the region between 2020 and 2025. In the next five years, over 2000 megawatts of renewable energy will be contributed to the Mindanao grid.

A startup project that promotes RE in NorthMin

In Northern Mindanao, a pioneering sustainable property developer has started to incorporate the use of renewable energy through property developments. Italpinas Euroasian Design and Eco-development Corporation (ITPI), an Italian-Filipino sustainable real estate firm, is committed to using green architecture paired with the use of renewable energy.

Primavera Residences, ITPI’s flagship sustainable condominium development, primarily promotes green architecture that helps reduce the impact to the environment. ITPI’s CEO and executive chairman Arch. Romolo Nati and its president, Atty. Jojo Leviste closely work together in achieving their goal to be the country’s prime movers in sustainable properties.

Leviste and Nati are also committed in incorporating energy-efficient systems in all their properties through its renewable energy business, Constellation Energy Corporation, with projects that include geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar.

“Sustainable design is more than just designing green. Aside from aesthetic design and caring for the environment, it has to help develop the communities,” Nati said. “That’s why our developments incorporate sustainability features that reduces 20% of the residents’ electricity consumption and are also built in secondary Philippine cities, where they can help develop local communities.”

Mindanao 2020 Peace and Dev’t Plan

The great move in pursuing RE projects, according to Antonino, is part of the efforts of key power players from the government and the private sector to provide Mindanao with a greener and renewable power supply.

Antonino added that pursuing RE development is also aligned with the MinDA’s Mindanao 2020 Peace and Development Framework Plan, which recognizes power as a major enabling factor for socio-economic development.

By 2016, the power scenario in Mindanao, including the committed projects, is expected to be 40% hydro, 28% coal, 25% oil-based, 6% geothermal and 1% biomass, MinDA data said.

But in 2019-2020, the energy mix in Mindanao, including committed and indicative power projects, would be 56% coal, 24% hydro, 14% oil-based, 4% geothermal and 1% each for biomass and solar, according to the same data.

Romeo Montenegro, MinDA director for investment promotion and public affairs, said that the government fully supports the development of renewable energy projects to balance the energy mix in Mindanao in the long-term.

Primavera to put up solar panels this June

This June 2015, Primavera Residences will be installing 6 sets of 3 kWp solar panel kits that could generate an estimated monthly electricity output of 270 kWh per kit at the roof deck to power the building’s water pumps, elevators, and other common areas.

Do you want to know more about the energy-efficient building? You can contact them at 0917 794 2221 and 088 880 5002 or you may visit their website 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.

Tag: eco-friendly building