Ymaz Builders: Building Quality is a Must

Whether you require basic structures, residential houses, commercial establishments, special interior projects, or even renovation works, we, at Ymaz Builders, can build it especially for you. We take pride in the quality of our workmanship.

Ymaz Builders brings over more than 15 years of construction experience with solid industry reputation. Founded on October 14, 1998 by Engr. Ferdinand Ymaz, the company has come a long way, starting from building bungalows and townhouses to constructing multi-level subdivision houses and commercial establishments.

WHO WE ARE

At Ymaz Builders, we strive to find new ways to build upon quality. Our company is composed of highly-experienced management teams, result-oriented engineers, dedicated office staff, and very skillful workforce who are well-prepared to concretize your dream house or building plan requirements with utmost efficiency and distinction.

We recognize that the best solutions are derived from the combined output of our employees and experts to ensure a project’s efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This synergy enables us to meet even the most stringent requirement of a customer.

WHAT WE CAN DO

At Ymaz Builders, we strive to excel in every service we provide, adding value for our customers wherever possible and always aiming to exceed their expectations.

Construction Management

We are ready to work with your ideas or develop a tailor-fit plan for you in accordance to your budget requirement. By performing due diligence in the pre-construction phase, we are able to minimize your risks and ensure that your project will start off on its best footing. During the construction phase, we take care of coordinating all construction activities, freeing you from stress and worry.

Conceptual Budgeting

Conceptual budgeting involves assigning a monetary value to a construction project. One reason to complete a budget is to obtain full funding for the project and to provide a cost-control mechanism for the construction process. Our various experts can help you determine an optimal budget for a project.

General Construction

As general contractor, we are responsible for the day-to-day oversight of a construction site, management of trades and supplies, and communication of information to involved parties throughout the course of a building project. We are there for you from start to finish.

HOW WE MAY HELP YOU

At Ymaz, we have gained our customers’ trust and confidence through outstanding performance and sheer competency, and by effectively managing the responsibilities with which we are being entrusted.

We build structures that last.

Ymaz Builders’ past and existing projects are a tangible testimony in our commitment to providing clients with state-of-the-art building that could withstand the test of time. As such, we constantly develop and utilize new construction technologies and alternative methodologies and refine our current system to be able to respond to the emerging trend in the market. 

We build lasting relationships with our customers.

We build more than buildings—we build relationships. The credibility, experience, and expertise in the field of construction of our founder, Engr. Ferdinand Ymaz, have developed and maintained an ongoing reputation for the company. He inculcated to us the value of professionalism and importance of taking very good care of customers. We provide our customers with personalized yet professional attention the Ymaz way. 

**Unpublished write-up of Ludwig Ritchel A. Kalambacal for Archikonst.
 

What makes Cocoon Boutique Hotel a truly 'green' hotel?

What better way to find out what it’s like to live as a caterpillar than actually to live like one? Cocoons are sheaths for caterpillars. They are the silky coverings with which caterpillars enclose themselves during their metamorphoses.

Imagine yourself snuggling between fresh cotton linens and goose down duvets in a very soft mattress inside a clean luxury chamber with soundproof walls, isn’t it adorable? It would, indeed, make you feel like a baby butterfly.

Cocoon Boutique Hotel tries to live up to its name of cocooning. At Cocoon Boutique Hotel, you can actually sleep all day and all night, cocooned in a pile of hygienic bedclothes with 400- to 600-thread count made of 10 percent Egyptian cotton linen and 90 percent goose down duvets. The beds are all top-of-the-line pocketed spring mattresses that follow the contour of your body for a more comfortable sleep.

Furthermore, the hotel resembles a cocoon in the way that it provides a sense of security and privacy to its occupants. Cocoon Boutique Hotel is following the LEED green guidelines to conserve energy and eschew harsh chemicals.

All rooms and suites are neat and tidy. The hotel’s antibacterial memory pillow and bed foam wards off dust mites that breed allergies. The canopied, double-glazed glass windows give protection against rain and the heat of the sun.

The elegant lobby is adorned with ornamental woodwork with geometrical patterns, beautiful contemporary paintings, a LED light-filled chandelier, and a genuine 1800 Steinway grand piano. It has a double-volume ceiling to provide better air circulation.

But not unlike a real cocoon which is made purely of silk, Cocoon Boutique Hotel, however, is built mostly with recycled materials that include architectural salvaged hardwoods, warm cast concrete, and woodstone accents.
 

The Leapfrog Project Team will start the "Living Ball" rolling in the Philippines this July

In the aftermath of super Typhoon Haiyan that devastated huge parts of Central Philippines, a post-disaster rehabilitation program is set to take on the enormous task of rebuilding. The Leapfrog Project, initiated by Filipino-American architect Lira Luis, is now organized to respond to the call of rebuilding. It rallies a number of Filipino and international professionals from various industries and sectors to collaborate and team up for the noble mission of helping Tacloban rebuild with resilience and serve as model of post-disaster reconstruction to the rest of the country and perhaps, the world. Through a Philippine-based online crowdfunding campaign, donors from around the world contributed to the core target of 10 randomly scattered Living Ball installations, enabling the Leapfrog Project to reach 100 percent of its first milestone goal. The installations will symbolize the vision for a future city development where each piece demonstrates resiliency in rebuilding (e.g., bio-mimicry, living skins, etc).

The Living Ball installations—a derivative from the Living Wall project of Archt. Luis, is intended to light up the city as it begins rebuilding. It’s inspired by the Japanese Marimo ball, a rare growth form of the species where the algae grow into large green balls. In collaboration with some professors from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, one installation would explore using a bioluminescent plankton native to the Philippines that likely ‘glow’ when disturbed, allowing for controlled lighting. Another installation would explore the use of photo luminescent paint that produces an eight-hour afterglow requiring only 10 minutes of solar irradiation even on a cloudy day. The paint is made from natural light-storing mineral crystals that are non-radioactive, toxic-free, and can be recharged an infinite number of times.

The ultimate objective of the Leapfrog Project is to transfer the attention received from this unique architecture installation into a fundraising effort to build and replace the 10 structures, a template for rebuilding the city of Tacloban. The final structures will be determined and built based on the needs of the selected recipient community. By doing so, we are enabling an effort to leapfrog into innovation for sustainable development that engages different schools of thought in design, science, business, and technology, and at the same time, contributing towards a more caring, charitable, and vitality-enhancing experience and cultivation of a generative space that allows them to flourish in their current and future endeavor.

Collaborators leapfrogging to action 

*A press release furnished by ALLL for immediate release.

The Apo View Hotel: Where home-grown hospitality meets first-class luxury

Discover the fascinating city of Davao while residing in the spacious comforts of elegant rooms. Be charmed by the signature touches that will surely make guests feel right at home the moment they step in through the door.

A familiar fixture in the downtown Davao skyline, The Apo View Hotel offers guests modern accommodations, superb dining experience, and cutting-edge amenities while basking in the rich history and old world charm of the Philippines’ second oldest hotel.

A veritable home away from home, The Apo View Hotel features living spaces that are conducive to both working and relaxation. Vibrant locales and excellent hospitality ensure that warmth and comfort are always at close quarters.

The Apo View Hotel is a comfortable walking distance from Gaisano South Citimall and the People’s Park. It is well connected to the city’s main thoroughfares and central business districts where many commercial establishments, restaurants, and entertainment centers are located. Moreover, the first class hotel is approximately 20 minutes away from Davao International Airport.

Rooms & Suites

All suites and rooms come with a welcome drink for two people at the Blue Room, complimentary buffet breakfast for two people at the Entrée Restaurant, free use of swimming pool, and unlimited internet access in the guest rooms and public areas.

Deluxe Room – available in single/double bed.

Executive Deluxe – newly renovated room located in the 4th and 6th floors; available in single/double bed.

Executive Suite – newly renovated room located in the 8th floor; features king-sized bed

Junior Suite – has a living room, bedroom, and bathroom with shower and bath tub.

Studio Room – fully renovated room located in the 3rd floor.

Bridal Suite – fully renovated room located in the 8th floor; it has a living room, dining area, separate bedroom, bathroom with separate shower, and bath tub.

Presidential Suite – comes with its own dining area, living area, pantry, study, master’s bedroom, and bathroom with Jacuzzi.

Banquets & Functions

The Apo View Hotel offers packages that can make a special day an event worth remembering. Its fully managed function rooms, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, are perfect settings for all kinds of occasions.

Grand Ballroom – is offering absolute flexibility in convention and banquet arrangements; the perfect venue for conventions, weddings, dinner-dance receptions, and other large-function occasions.

Top of the Apo – newly renovated function room that can accommodate up to 200 persons; a perfect venue for weddings, birthdays, debuts, and other medium-scale occasions.

Garden Pavilion – fully managed function room, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, which provides a perfect setting for all kinds of occasions.

Other Banquets & Functions – include the Orchid, Catleya, Vanda, and Silver rooms, and the Boardroom.

 

Dining & Leisure

The Apo View Hotel offers popular culinary favorites and refreshing beverages through its in-house restaurants and bar, while its casinos feature table games and slot machines which the guests will surely enjoy.

• Entrée
• Café Josefina
• The Blue Room
• Pacific Palm and PAGCOR Casinos
• Pool Deck and Garden

Amenities & Services

• 24-hour room service
• 24-hour business center
• Swimming pool
• Massage service
• Safety deposit box at the front desk
• Car rental
• Travel agency
• Gift shop
• Dress shop
• Airport transfers

Contact Details

150 J. Camus Street, Davao City, Philippines 8000.

Tel: +63 (82) 221-6430 to 40

Fax: +63 (82) 221-0748

Email: info@apoview.com

**Unpublished write-up of Ludwig Ritchel A. Kalambacal for Archikonst.

Korean singer and Playboy star Lee Pani shoots her MTV in the Philippines

Did you know that Korean sultry singer and Playboy girl Lee Pani shot her music video in the Philippines last year? Yes, it was shot in the Balinese-inspired Playa Tropical Resort Hotel in Currimao, Ilocos Norte in 2011.

Here, watch the video and see for yourself.

And here is the picture of Playa Tropical Resort Hotel which was just taken last year in 2012.

Watch out for ArkiConst summer issue which will be released by the 2nd or 3rd week of February 2013. The magazine will be featuring the world-class appeal of Playa Tropical Resort Hotel and its fabulous Balinese architectural style.

By the way, ArkiConst (formerly spelled as Archikonst) is the Philippines longest-running architecture and construction magazine.

Robust Philippine currency threatens business process outsourcing industry

Outsourcing to the Philippines is now said to be 30% more expensive than India and China, according to Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPAP). But what is ironic is that the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry, which contributes much to the domestic economy, actually helped drive up the peso's value. The combination of an appreciating peso and a depreciating Indian rupee had provided India with a meaningful cost advantage. Ditto the steady Chinese yuan.

A survey of BPAP members on the impact of the strengthening peso revealed the following:

• about 46.7% of respondents said it had been more difficult to hit their respective revenue targets;
• about 40% of respondents said they had lost some business to other destinations;
• about 40% of respondents said they had canceled expansion plans.

Southeast Asia has become a preferred destination for global portfolio investors in which case their investment inflows result in increased demand for the local currency.

Aside from the BPO industry, exporters are also hit hard by a robust peso since they make less money in peso terms for every dollar they earn.

In a related development, some property experts are encouraging property developers to look beyond the BPO industry. Global consultancy firm Urban Land Institute, for one, advises property players to find new growth areas. One suggestion is to consider developing “middle office” hubs for financial institutions.

Front office usually refers to sales and marketing, and the back office covers administrative and support services, where call centers and BPOs usually come in. But middle office, on the other hand, refers to the segment within a bank or financial services firm that takes care of risk management, calculates profits and losses, and handles the information technology platform using the resources of front and back offices. Hence, the business of assigning middle office tasks to a third party is known as “knowledge process outsourcing” (KPO).

Strategic ways of hiring architects for home construction

The Editor in Chief of Archikonst, Ludwig Ritchel A. Kalambacal, wrote an article to MyProperty.ph about some practical tips on how to snag the right architect for your home construction. Likewise, the chief editor of the Philippines' longest-running architectural magazine pointed out the advantages of hiring licensed architects.

Visit the premier online Philippine real estate classifieds, MyProperty.ph, to find out more about the advantages of hiring licensed architects for home projects. 

For further readings, please follow this link:   
 http://www.myproperty.ph/en/article.aspx?artid=364

The Metamorphosis of V.V. Soliven

V.V. Soliven Group of Companies metamorphosed over the years to become one of the country’s premier real estate conglomerates.

Founded by the husband and wife tandem of Purita Soliven and her late husband, Victorio Soliven, in 1965 as V.V. Soliven Realty & Associates (VVSRA), the firm initially ventured into selling subdivision lots owned by reputable developers and landowners. Then, it branched out into the more lucrative residential construction and subdivision development.

The business partners incorporated VVSRA as V.V. Soliven Realty Corporation (VVSRC) in 1968 to take care of their realty marketing business. Meanwhile, they formed Solid Builders Inc. (SBI) in 1973 to focus on vertical constructions like houses, buildings and shopping centers. They also established Speed Construction & Development Corporation to do horizontal constructions.

More and more sister companies were organized. In 1975, Solid Rock Aggregates was formed to undertake the large volume requirements of the mother company for construction materials. The other one is Agricultural Development Corporation, which is engaged in converting idle raw land into productive agricultural ventures. Two more subsidiaries were formed, El Reyno Homes and First Apollo Homes, and put them under one umbrella. With the concerted efforts of the subsidiary companies, the V.V. Soliven Shopping Complex was commenced in 1976.

In its several years of glorious existence, V.V. Soliven Group of Companies has earned the distinction of building quality homes. In cognizance of its outstanding industry performance, V.V. Soliven Group of Companies was voted in the 1978 edition of Top Corporations in the Philippines as 2nd place in the Real Estate Industry category.

Adapting the corporate values of total commitment, innovations and customer satisfaction, V.V. Soliven Group of Companies has remained steadfast in its pledge to the national effort of providing people with decent and affordable housing. Moreover, the firm aims to expand its operations by penetrating the global property scene – marketing resort subdivisions and retirement villages.

Purita R. Soliven
Chairperson & CEO

She became the Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of V.V. Soliven Group of Companies when her husband, Victorio Soliven, died in November 2010. To her, it is a task she is only too happy to fulfill, as a way of honoring her late husband and her commitment to her partners, employees, and customers.

She wants to be a part of the so-called “Global Filipinos”, or Filipino workers who embraced other cultures while maintaining their own. To her, real estate and property developments are a huge factor in tourism.

She is also an active officer and member of the Chamber of Real Estate & Builders’ Association (CREBA). But despite of her hectic work schedule, she still has managed to provide ample time for rest and recreation, and family bonding.

A strong advocate in the power of women, she believes that women can take on any type of job and rise to the top.

**Unpublished advertorial write-up by Ludwig Ritchel A. Kalambacal for V.V. Soliven Group of Companies.
 

Larossa in Capitol Hills: Filipino Lifestyle in Harmony with Nature

Green architecture is designing buildings keeping in mind environmental goals and sustainable development. It denotes economical, energy-saving, environmentally-friendly, sustainable development, and explores the relationship between architecture and ecology.

Primehomes Real Estate Development Inc., spearheaded by architect and sports-enthusiast Nathaniel “Nikki” L. Romero as President and Chief Executive Officer, is set to deliver the sprawling Broadcast City compound in Capitol Hills, Quezon City into a showcase of an environmentally-friendly botanical community called Larossa in Capitol Hills. Located in a high-profile neighborhood that houses one of the country's premier golf courses, the posh Celebrity Sports Club, and the region’s top universities and commercial establishments, Larossa in Capitol Hills is a prime residential community that provides its residents a sensual relationship with nature.

With its commitment to provide unparalleled housing development in the country, Primehomes has allocated 65 percent of the 3.6-hectare property solely to greenery and open spaces. “Only a few developers are concentrating on being green”, remarked Primehouse CEO Nikki Romero in one of his interviews.

“We at CREBA are strongly committed to supporting and initiating green development, particularly in the proper use of land and in the use of green technologies”, said Editha L. Manansala, concurrently the director of the Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations (CREBA), president of CREBA International Foundation Inc. (CIFI), and president of Top Rank Realty Marketing Inc., the subsidiary marketing firm of Larossa developer Primehomes. “Top Rank was established to provide the ideal home to the modern Filipino family through innovative and highly accessible acquisition plans. In a nutshell, we specialize in delivering the best in real-estate properties. Our current flagship project, the Larossa residences, is a medium-rise development built around an urban botanical-garden framework. It's a unique concept that promotes Filipino architecture – encapsulating in one project the best of what is endemic and the best of what is green.”

Larossa in Capitol Hills showcases a contemporary Filipino-inspired design which incorporates popular indigenous materials used in native craft like capiz shells, coconut timbers, natural stones, among others. Its architecture, landscape, and setting reflect on the essence of being Filipino. “[Larossa] is going to be an exciting and prestigious development since it will be a showcase of Philippine architecture in modern times”, said Nikki Romero.

By varying the heights of the buildings and deploying sunlight-blocking louvers throughout the design, these features allow efficient lighting and proper ventilation throughout the community, which insulate the residences and helps keep the temperature inside the homes at a constantly comfortable level. In a way, it brings down cooling bill but never the level of comfort of the residents. 
 

Moreover, every detail of the medium-rise development is carefully designed to provide ultimate safety, convenience, and comfort to its residents. It comes with all the amenities to make settling into a new home a breeze. Larossa in Capitol Hills consists of 11 condominiums and each condominium consists of 22-square-meter studio units, 27-square-meter studio premiere units, and 30-square-meter one-bedroom units. Affordable pricing rates and flexible payment terms are put in place to accommodate “the strong emerging aspirational market of young professionals and OFW beneficiaries”, disclosed Editha Manasala.

Larossa features deluxe amenities for recreation which include a main clubhouse, children’s clubhouse, tree house, pools with waterfalls, pocket gardens, active playgrounds, play courts, spa and wellness center, jogging path, and biking trail. It also boasts of a state-of-the-art business center, multi-purpose function rooms, and a day care center.

But more than just offering a top-quality lifestyle, Larossa also allows its residents to experience communing with nature. One can bask in the verdant setting of lush foliage of tropical trees and fragrant flowers, offering weary souls an escape from the daily grind. Its cascading pools and immense gardens are comparable to none. Hence, residents won't feel like they are living in a building as generous open spaces that create a pleasing sanctuaries add a vast breathing space.

“There's a niche market for green condominium development. But what Larossa offers is a variety in that level”, quipped Top Rank president Editha Manansala. From its distinct Filipino architecture, vast botanical gardens, to its well-placed location, Larossa in Capitol Hills is the stuff of every Filipino's dream community.

**Unpublished write-up by Ludwig Ritchel A. Kalambacal for Top Rank Realty Marketing, Inc.

Soothing experience at Canyon Cove

I'm sharing with you some snapshots of my visit to Canyon Cove. Please refer to the photo gallery below.

This exclusive beach resort is located in Nasugbu, Batangas.

The place is like the ones you see in Europe, according to one frequent European traveler. In addition, one Fil-American guest even said that the resort is even more beautiful than the beach resorts in Guam. No wonder, the swim wear segment of the recent Miss Earth beauty pageant was held at Canyon Cove.

Indeed, the place is really nice. The tropical atmosphere and the views are magnificent. You will feel a soothing experience as the cool wind wafts through your hair while watching the sunset under the shade of palm fronds or simply viewing the vastness of the sea with wavelines responding in azure caress of white crescent shore.

Those who have stayed overnight at Canyon Cove waxed rhapsodic about how the evening became a virtual invitation to romance as a crisp, nippy air circling about the place.

Moreso, its amenities are great! You have choices of accommodation, whether to stay in the condotel suite or apartment unit. The foods that are being served have a wider variety from native to oriental and western dishes. The water recreation facilities are almost complete. Aside from the big swimming pool, there are these water sports equipment like the banana boats, motorized bancas, water bicycles and jet skis, which you can ride for a minimal fee. Likewise, scuba diving and snorkeling activities are being offered.

Visiting Canyon Cove is worth the while, and I'm raring to go there again this coming summer.

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Topping-off of Ridgewood Tower 1

Last Saturday (Dec. 20), I was in C-5 Road in Taguig to attend the topping-off ceremony of the Tower 1 of Ridgewood Towers. The condominium project, as per the head of marketing, is the lowest priced top notch condominium in The Fort Global City. In fact, it is lower by 35% to 50% than the neighboring residential establishments.

So what do you think? Is this a bargain or a rip-off?

The price is so affordable for a prime condominium that is strategically located in a high-growth business area.

Going back to the topping-off ceremony, actually, the event was just a repeat performance. It was intended for the sales and marketing people and their buyers / clients to witness the unfolding development that is happening in the project.

The ceremony proper started at about 10:30am, which was led by the president of the marketing subsidiary. The event was attended by top brokers and agents in the real estate industry, together with some clients. A very short program was held, followed by a brief discussion on the project.

By the way, original topping-off ceremony, was held on Dec. 10, wherein top honchos of the parent company, affiliate developer and marketing subsidiary were in attendance.

The Complex Structure of Collateralized Debt Obligations

The US subprime crisis began to unfold when the American housing market was burst with record-level delinquencies and defaults coupled with negative economic sentiments that led to broad sell off of collateralized debt obligation (CDO) holdings by investors. So what kind of financial animal is this so-called CDO?

CDOs are consolidations of a group of fixed income assets divided into tranches in accordance with the cash flow and risk category. Higher rated tranches, protected by the subordinated security structure, offer lower coupon rates or interest rates, like the triple-A and mezzanine tranches. Meanwhile, the lower rated tranche, i.e., subordinated tranche, offers higher coupon or interest rates to compensate for the higher risk.

Furthermore, CDOs are complex financial instruments born out of the concepts of securitization or the process of transforming illiquid financial assets, like mortgages and credit card receivables, into marketable securities. The results that spawned from this innovative process are called structured finance instruments, which are backed by the cash flow of the underlying pool of assets. Such instruments include asset-backed securities (ABS), mortgage-backed securities (MBS) and CDO. ABS are bonds or notes collateralized by the cash flows from a specified pool of underlying assets, while MBS are ABS which cash flows are backed by the principal and interest payments of a set of mortgage loans.

The are two major types of CDOs, such as the collateralized loan obligations, which are backed primarily by leveraged bank loans, and structured finance CDOs, which are backed primarily by ABS and MBS. The latter type, backed by subprime mortgages, is the main culprit in the present credit crunch.

When American subprime borrowers started to default on their obligations, the effect was so devastating in the US housing market. The damage was so severe especially for the subprime backed CDO that the effects even went up to the higher rated tranches. These higher rated tranches had also found its way to the portfolio of investors outside the US due to its investment-grade appeal. Thus, when the credit crisis broke out it rippled globally.

On the othere hand, since there is no formal exchange for CDOs, valuation, transparency and credit rating became a concern by major banks and investment firms. As a result, massive writedowns took place among the financial heavyweights like the Citigroup, HSBC, Bear Sterns, Morgan Stanley, among others, which prompted rating agencies to downgrade their credit ratings on these investments.

Most analysts say that the credit crisis could be averted had the holders of the higher rated tranches did not hit panic button and unload their investments; however, “herd mentality” prevailed among them which had caused a downward spiral of CDO prices.

Yet, for all its flaws and the havoc it wrought, CDOs are still a good investment choice for those who are seeking higher yields and diversification. It is only a matter of time that investors should wait for the CDO market to recover itself from its downfall and correct itself on its next sojourn.

XX-Mas Parties

If there is such a thing as “gross redundancy”, then this one would be very much qualified.

Imagine, this is my first time to attend a Christmas party held in two distant venues. Likewise, this is my first time to attend two separately-dated Christmas parties held by virtually one organization, and held on the same venue.

Got confused? Well, here are the details.

• Last Dec. 5 and 6, the parent company of our subsidiary firm hosted a Christmas party. The first night was held at the exclusive Canyon Woods in Metro Tagaytay, then the extended party (the following day) was held at the Canyon Cove, a private beach resort in Nasugbu, Batangas.

• On Dec. 17 and 18, the subsidiary firm hosted a Christmas party at the Canyon Cove. The big boss of the parent company, who is also the big boss of the subsidiary firm, was also in attendance.

Based from the information above, here are the double-double incidents:

• Two Christmas parties held by one organization (i.e., holding firm G2 Global).
• Two Christmas parties held on a common location (i.e., Canyon Cove).
• Two separately-dated two-day events (Dec. 5-6 & Dec. 17-18).
• Two venues with both names start with “Canyon” (Canyon Woods & Canyon Cove).
• Two related companies – parent firm and its marketing subsidiary.

Nonetheless, I'm still thankful to the organization and never mind if it's redundant. It's free, anyway.

Glimpses of future developments at the Coastal Bay City

The final layout was the one on top. But I also posted the other two designs so that you may have an idea on how we came about with the final one.

As you can see, the first version had a bluish hue. As much as I would like the bluish background; however, blue is not the color motif of the client. So, second revision was rendered based from the preferred color of the client. Then again, the background rendered was too futuristic and grandeur as it depicted a sort of another Makati City in the offing; hence, it was subjected to another revision.

After some collaboration, the bluish background was retained which covered about two-thirds of the poster, while a third of the space was based from the client's motiff of orange and green. Furthermore, the tall building structures in the poster design were removed in order to align with the captive and target market of the commercial complex - i.e., the future residents of the surrounding residential area that belonged mostly to the low-middle to middle income brackets.

Now, the design is more of a Sta. Rosa commercial complex, which is quite alright.

*Poster tagline and some design concepts contributed by Ludwig Ritchel A. Kalambacal for AMCreative House Concepts Designs (Nov. 26, 2008).

Glimpses of Canyon Woods

Want to live in an exclusive community where you can be neighbor with big time politician, movie star, or successful entrepreneur? If yes, then you better get a piece of the Canyon Woods pie before stocks run out.

The resort projects, like condominiums, condotels, apartments, maisonettes, townhomes, and residential lots, are selling like pancakes to high net worth individuals.

The mini-mansion on your left is the vacation house of ex-Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson. See the photo gallery below for more breath-taking views.

The relaxing view of the place is indeed a perfect weekend respite to a tiresome professional, busy executive, longing OFW, and health-conscious retiree. Furthermore, the Canyon Woods Residential Resort is boasted of the cool and breath-taking view of the mountain and lake of Taal. Its lush greenery, rolling terrains and country chalet-style houses truly delight the senses. Furthermore, it is affiliated with Interval International, the most prestigious vacation exchange network company in the world.

Covered bonds to bail out troubled US housing market

Four of the largest banks in America, together with the U.S. Treasury, are planning to launch a new investment vehicle in an effort to revive a slumping housing market. The four banks, namely, the Bank of America, Citigroup, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, said on Monday (July 28) that they will be issuing covered bonds soon. They estimated that the issuance might reach US$1-trillion.

Covered bonds are widely used in Europe. They are secured by pools of assets like home loans. Unlike mortgage securities that pass all the risk to investors, covered bonds continue to perform even if the mortgages backing them default for as long as the bank remains solvent since covered bond loans stay on the balance sheet of the issuing bank, which mean that they are obligations on the bank. On the other hand, the issuing bank retains control of the assets that back the loans, normally high-quality home mortgages in good credit standing.

Meanwhile, in a related development, troubled investment bank Merill Lynch & Co. announced this week that it will take a US$5.7-billion write-down on the 3rd quarter. In a sign how troubled the investment bank's debt holdings have become, it has agreed to a fire sale of its US$30.6-billion collateralized debt obligations (CDOs) to an affiliate Lone Star Funds for merely US$6.7-billion. The deal only shows how big the impact is of the subprime crisis to major banking industries.

Glitches in the Miss Real Estate Philippines 2008

The Philippine Real Estate Festival, touted to be the biggest and grandest real estate event in the Philippines, has just concluded its affairs last Saturday, July 26. The three-day event was held at the SMX Convention Center located inside the Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City.

Overall, the event was a big success. It was spearheaded by Ms. Rose C. Basa, Chairperson and President of Core Spaces International. (Congratulations and thanks for the invite.)

One of the highlights of the event was the staging of the Miss Real Estate Philippines pageant. It's a good experience to witness the “next prestigious beauty pageant “ of the land. The pageant is only on its second run, yet the industry acceptance is overwhelming with prominent and big real estate developers with the likes of Ayala Land, Mega World, Eton Properties, SM Investment, et al. have joined the fray, fielding their own gorgeous and stunning candidates. Likewise, the panel of judges were composed of bigwigs, socialites and VIPs.

From an audience perspective, the show ran smoothly and it's perfect! However, from someone who has an inside crack, it's not. Like any other shows, it also has its own lapses and petty troubles.

First glitch I've noticed was when the judges were introduced one by one, not all of them were mentioned – about two of them, which prompted the host, as instructed by the event organizer, to announce another set of “new” judges after an intermission number. The new batch composed of the two original judges not mentioned in the “initial” roll call, together with the event chairperson and an event director. (Organizers as judges... hhmmm, that's for the record.)

Second glitch happened during the evening gown parade. When host Ariel Ureta announced the name of the first candidate who will enter the stage, no one came out. The music background has long been ended and still no show from the candidate. There might be a miscommunication transpired backstage. Hence, the host jokingly quipped when the candidate finally stepped on the stage that it was a “dramatic entrance”.

Then, the last glitch transpired during the awarding of special awards. The Miss PLDT award went to the “wrong” person, which prompted the event director to scold a show coordinator for not giving the award to the sponsor's bet. Hence, moments later, host Ariel Ureta blurted out “surprise!”, then he mentioned the awarding of another Miss PLDT award with a segue way: “Di ako halata ha (laughs)”. As a result, there were two Miss PLDT awardees. (So, whoever said that business, politics and media don't mix?)

Anyways, since the show started an hour-and-a-half late from its official start time (which is just normal), it's already an hour before midnight and it's not yet finished. Since, I still have some errands to do, I decided not to wait for the announcement of winners. Thus, I could not tell you who won the coveted Miss Real Estate Philippines.

Nonetheless, I have with me some snap shots taken during the show. Just pick your bet and you be the judge!

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in emergency situations

After the collapse of IndyMac, the US government is now planning to help Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae out of trouble.

The Fed and the US Treasury are willing to lend money and buy shares just to stabilize the two pillars of the American housing market.

Nonetheless, efforts by the government to save the couple seem not enough to boost investors' confidence. Wall Street continues to sag. Shares of Fannie Mae fell 5.1% to US$9.73 per share, while those of Freddie Mac slid 8.3% to US$7.11 per share, both in NYSE trading last Monday (July 14).

From the website of www.slate.com:

As of yesterday's close, Fannie Mae had a market capitalization of about $13 billion and Freddie Mac was worth about $5 billion. Given the massive size of their portfolios and the potential for losses, it's clear they will need to raise sums that may equal or dwarf their current market capitalizations. Given the firms' distressed state, buyers would certainly demand a discount. As J.P. Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon said in his now-famous formulation about Bear Stearns, "Buying a house is not the same as buying a house on fire." Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are houses on fire. And this mentality leads to a vicious cycle: Investors jump ship because they fear dilution, and the more the stock slips, the more dilute capital-raising becomes.

Plans to improve the Philippine capital market

In a bid to make investments in capital markets more attractive to Filipinos, the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) is currently spearheading some “capital market-friendly” projects and schemes.

The Personal Equity Retirement Account (PERA), which allows tax-free pension plans, has already been approved by a bicameral committee in Congress last June 10. It is widely expected to boost efforts to further enhance the Philippine capital markets as it will create a market for issuers of corporate debts and other investment instruments. The PERA Fund functions like a trust fund where the consolidated amount contributed by fund members will be invested in a portfolio of secured investments, wherein each contributor is entitled to a maximum of Php100,000 in contributions annually.

Another Congress-approved bill lobbied for by the PSE is the Credit Information System Act, which aims to establish an efficient, comprehensive and centralized credit information system.

The PSE also works on the approval by Congress of the Corporate Recovery and Insolvency Act (CRIA), which will replace the country's antiquated Insolvency Law. This proposed bill aims to provide a new lease on life for listed companies and brokers with financial difficulties.

The Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) is also another proposed measure that aims to accelerate the development of capital markets. The scheme works like a mutual funds whereby a large portion of a pool of capital would be invested in income-generating real estate properties and investments.

Another similar proposal is the Collective Investment Schemes Law which aims to further promote collective investments schemes, like unit investment trust funds (UITF), by streamlining regulation.

Champion REIT raising US$980M to buy Langham Place

There are solicitation documents reaching high-profile investors in China and some parts of Asia-Pacific that came from Champion REIT, seeking funds worth up to US$980-million. The proceeds of the sale as per the documents will be use to buy the Langham Place, a prime office and retail complex in Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong-based real estate investment trust (REIT) aims to purchase most of the 59-storey office tower and mall from Great Eagle Holdings, which all in all would cost them around US$1.6-billion. To satisfy the deal, the investment firm plans to satisfy the transactions via a bank loan, convertible bonds and unit sale.

The unit sale, priced between HK$3.60 and HK$3.80 and arranged by Citigroup, is expected to raise about US$380 million. On the other hand, the convertible bond issue aims to raise up to US$600 million, with the securities yielding 4.75% to 5.25%. The conversion price will be between 25% and 32% higher than the price of the share sale.

Champion REIT is a real estate investment trust formed to own and invest in an income-producing portfolio of prime grade-A office and commercial properties primarily in Hong Kong.