Filipino Gaming Platform OKBet Draws Festive Cheers during MPBL Games in Bacolod

Basketball games were extra festive and colorful in Bacolod as the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League's (MPBL) title sponsor OKBet delivered on its promise to bring the city’s MassKara Festival to life a few months earlier this year.

OKBet, the rising star in the local sports entertainment industry and MPBL's official partner for its ongoing fourth regular season, kicked off the two-day "OKBet Goes To Bacolod" event last July 18 at the University of St. La Salle Gymnasium, coinciding with the highly-anticipated games of the country's top regional basketball league.

Among the four teams that played is the city's very own Bacolod Bingo Plus, one of the top performing teams so far this season in the south division — all the more reason for the dubbed “City of Smiles” to cheer and beam with glee.

Also there to compete were the Valenzuela City XUR Homes Realty Inc., Zamboanga Family's Brand Sardines, and Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards. 

Following the opening match of the first day, a troupe of local performers donning kaleidoscopic costumes and their signature smiling masks entertained both the ever-blissful Bacolodnon crowds and the passionate supporters that poured in from different places to watch their favorite teams duke it out in the basketball court.

Local performers wearing festive masks and costumes entertaining the crowd

last July 18 at the University of St. La Salle Gymnasium in Bacolod City

A special booth clad in the OKBet brand’s colors was set up in the venue, where lucky fans got their hands on loads of freebies and exciting prizes, including OKBet shirts, lanyards, and the chance to meet-and-greet the players once the games had concluded.

Prior to the basketball action, the multi-industry company also donated hygiene kits to the city government of Bacolod, as part of its ongoing string of corporate social responsibility initiatives that took off just a week earlier in Muntinlupa. This was done during the press conference hosted by Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez that welcomed the MPBL delegates.

OKBet representatives with Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez during the turnover 

of hygiene kits to the city government last July 17 in the Bacolod City Hall

The rather early celebration, which may very well be the first of many, follows OKBet’s commitment to support and celebrate all things Filipino — this time, with our joyful nature, world-class creativity,  and undeniably fun-loving culture put in the spotlight. Coupled with our proud fighting spirit, these culture-defining traits explain why our people love competitions and sporting events so much. OKBet wishes for us all to embrace such traits, as part of nation-building moving forward.

Over a month ago, this new name in the local gaming and sports entertainment industry unveiled an awe-inspiring mural in the world-famous Tenement Court in Taguig City. The massive artwork, done in collaboration with the Tenement Visual Artists, marked the company's promise to further promote the basketball scene and the countless aspiring athletes in the country after sealing their partnership with MPBL.

The OKBet x MPBL Tenement Court Mural unveiled last June 12 at the Tenement

Famous Court in Taguig City

MPBL league commissioner Kenneth Duremdes formally welcomed OKBet as this season's title sponsor back in June 12 in a joint press conference held at the Grand Ballroom of the Okada Manila in Parañaque City. He noted that the two parties share a common goal in empowering home-grown talents for them to reach their full potential, especially in these trying times when we are still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

By embracing and continuously celebrating the Filipino culture and identity, our people's happiness and fulfilment can outshine those of the smiling masks in Bacolod. The early celebration can be all year long instead.

Learn more about OKBet at www.okbet.com.

NEGROS SEASON OF CULTURE CINCO DE NOVIEMBRE

Cinco de Noviembre: Homes of the Generals

This was the time, and this was the scene. Philippine independence had earlier been declared on June 12, 1898. It hoped to send ripples down the archipelago.

And it did. On the 5th of November that year, Negrenses took to the streets to claim their inalienable right to self-determination. No other story in the archives of Negros wields greater sway in the evolution of Negrense heritage than this historic fight for independence from Spanish rule, and the consequent establishment of the Cantonal Republic of Negros.

A hundred twenty three years later, Cinco de Noviembre is an annual, province-wide holiday commemorating the brave spirit of Negrenses. And?

Sadly, much of this may be lost in today’s generation. But then again, the young is not entirely to blame for not knowing about events in 1898, when their knowledge of history doesn’t even stretch back to as recently as Martial Law in the 1970s and 1980s. It is up to the older generation to continue the noble mission of educating the young about this single most defining event in the narrative of Negros, Cinco de Noviembre.

For this reason, Negros Season of Culture marks the occasion each time it rolls around. NSC was launched on this day in 2020, and this year 2021, NSC returns to deliver a fresh view of the memoirs. Doing so confirms, Cinco de Noviembre is not just a day in history, but a constant wellspring of good vibes for all freedom-loving Filipinos, now and for all time.

Negros Season of Culture’s journey back in time begins with the two main characters of the saga, Gen. Aniceto Lacson of Talisay who led katipuneros from the north, and Gen. Juan Araneta of Bago who organized farm workers in the south. The two converged in Bacolod to secure the surrender of the Spanish governor. The production team of Negros Season of Culture sat down at length with descendants of the two generals to derive insight about them at the time that they lived, straight from inside their homes.

For Gen. Aniceto Lacson, the NSC team visited the actual set of the planning of the revolt. Casa Grande, as it has been called, is a bahay-na-bato structure that sits in the middle of Gen. Lacson’s sugarcane plantation in Talisay City. In this hacienda, katipuneros, or members of the Kataastaasan, Kagalanggalangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan (KKK), were disguised as farm laborers awaiting the appointed day to start the revolution.

When the smoke settled, the Spanish forces in Negros surrendered and Gen. Lacson was elected President of the Cantonal Republic of Negros. Casa Grande served as the country’s first presidential palace. At that time, Malacañang was being passed on from Spanish rulers to the Americans who, by virtue of the Treaty of Paris at the end of the Spanish-American War, subjugated the Spanish territories of Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.

The General Aniceto Lacson Ancestral Home was declared a National Historic Landmark by the National Historic Institute in 2002.

For Gen. Araneta, the NSC crew was welcomed into General Juan Araneta Residence and Landmark Museum in Bago City. The house was given to the general by a relative shortly after the revolution. It is fondly called by locals as Balay ni Tan Juan, since the general was previously a Capitan Municipal, hence the nickname Tan Juan.

The museum celebrates the role of Gen. Araneta as commander of the southern forces. Here one discovers the ingenuity of the general through stories of makeshift cannons, made out of rolled bamboo mats and painted black, and improvised rifles fashioned from nipa fronds. The silhouette of farm workers marching with artillery was enough to convince Spanish authorities to surrender.

The museum also includes testaments about illustrious children of Bago City, including a Senator and a Chief Justice, who offered sterling service in all branches of the national government through the years.

In 1978 the descendants of Gen. Juan Araneta donated the property to Bago City. It was promptly declared a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission.

On eve of another election year, Negros Season of Culture inspires you to reflect on what enables the Filipino to hope and move forward from crises, year after year. Negrenses have been spared by moments of integrity, industry, and innovation punctuating the lives of their courageous forefathers. Their stories, archaic if not forgotten, have the unenviable job of pleading with today’s young minds to pause, listen, and learn.

Negros Season of Culture offers to bridge the generational divide. Like us on Facebook and Instagram, and visit www.negrosseasonofculture.com.

How Effective is Online Marketing for Philippine Real Estate?

Changes is continuously coming due to the never-ending   evolution of technology. This is particularly true in some industries that have successfully adapted in the current global business landscape.

For real estate, many licensed professionals are taking advantage of the World Wide Web to reach their target market. Gone were the days where you only have to rely on the people that you know and those you meet on the streets to promote what you offer. With the advent of social media platforms you can instantly reach almost two million possible clients with just a few clicks away.

Lamudi Philippines, a leading real estate website and an expert on online real estate marketing, shares the reasons why many real estate professionals claims that online marketing is now the way to go.

Wider Reach and Limitless Possibilities

According to internetlivestats.com 43.5% or almost half of the Philippine population are using the Internet. Imagine being able to tap even just a fraction of that number. Fortunately, there is just so much that you can do online to get the attention of Internet users. Some of the most effective tools like clear and crisps photos, short but engaging videos, and now virtual reality are just some of technology-enhanced gears that you can harness to capture your market.

One best example is the magnified effect of word-of-mouth advertising. For instance, a nice new place complete with residential and leisure components that becomes an instant hit to social media users can effectively help a rising condo in that area. Shares will just pour in and you will just ride the hype and count your sales.

Harold Geronimo, AVP and Head of Public Relations and External Affairs of property giant Megaworld Corporation, shared that his company is now recognizing the evolution of the market. From heavily banking on various traditional advertising methods, the shift to more portable, more real-time and fast-paced approach to reaching your target audience is gaining importance. Because of this, different online promotion techniques such as social media channels, blogs and websites have become an integral part of Megaworld’s marketing mix.

Mr. Geronimo also emphasized that the fastest and cost-efficient way to distribute content is through social media. “Almost all segments of consumers in the Philippines are on social media and we want to be where our target markets are. With the growing competition of real estate in the country we are utilizing the online space to spread our creativity and be ahead of other companies,” he stressed.

Lamudi also interviewed Pinnacle Real Estate Consulting Services Inc., one of the top property management and brokerage services providers in the country, and they stressed that digital marketing is now considered one of the best ways to advertise as this provides a wider reach and the fastest vehicle toward clients.

On the GO!

Posting listings or browsing for a dream home is just quick and easy. As Internet and technology become more mobile, the chance to find your next big sale or your first investment can be done simultaneously with other tasks. As Filipinos learn to value their time and resources more, people tend to rely on various applications, service-focused websites and other technology-assisted means of making life a tad easier.

Alejandro Mañalac, Executive Vice-President of Step Philippines, Inc., also revealed that digital marketing plays a big role in their day-to-day real estate operations. “Generating leads wherever and whenever really maximizes time and resources. Furthermore, upon receiving inquiries from our various campaigns, we are already equipped with the information that we can share instantly while the leads are hot, which means quicker response time,” Mr. Mañalac enthused.

Sales, Sales, and More Sales

The potential to earn a six-digit income monthly with just a few sales is the ultimate come-on spiel of successful real estate brokers. Mary Clair Dino, licensed real estate broker who freshly acquired her PRC license last year, is now very interested to give real estate platforms like Lamudi a go because of her experience in successfully closing sales using just Facebook (and without extensive training and very technical knowledge to do such). “I just posted pictures and shared the advantages of the properties and I successfully closed deals, then it occurred to me that there is more to Internet marketing,” shared Ms. Dino when asked why she is interested to subscribe on Lamudi.

10 Philippine Cities to Watch in 2017

With sustained progress in the real estate industry backed by an overall economy that various financial institutions predict to grow between 6 to almost 7 percent in 2017, many places in the Philippines are becoming increasingly ideal to live and/or invest in.

Whichever reason to move: a fresh start, exploring new career and business opportunities, or a growing a family, ten of these places in the country, compiled by global real estate website Lamudi Philippines, stand out, and are worth your consideration for this year, and even beyond.

1. Cebu City

Ranked seventh by strategic advisory firm Tholons among best outsourcing destinations in the world due to the quality of workforce and tertiary education; relatively cheaper business cost; infrastructure network; and quality of life, Cebu is also a city to watch thanks to its considerable proximity to several of the Philippine’s best tropical destinations and affordable secondary cities.

It ranked sixth most competitive based on the National Competitiveness Council’s (NCC) survey, which measures local government units desirability based on economic dynamism, government efficiency, and infrastructure. Cebu City’s property listings on Lamudi for 2016 averaged 2,900 per month, only behind Makati (5,680), Quezon City (5,560), and Taguig (3,400). Upcoming real estate projects likes Solinea and Gatewalk Central (both by Ayala Land) and Cebu Exchange (Arthaland) are likely to boost inventory in the future.

2. Las Piñas

While Metro Manila’s current real estate market seemingly favors condo-seekers the most, Las Piñas remains a good option for buyers in search of houses. The city’s inventory of houses in 2016 averaged 680 per month, the third highest number in Metro Manila after Quezon City (2,800) and Makati (930), and the average price of two-bedroom houses in the city was Php2.8 million, compared to Php3.68 million in Quezon City.

While the city stands out among most of its Metro Manila neighbors in terms of availability of mid-priced residences, property values in Las Piñas may soon catch up as a result of major developments taking place in the city. Projects in Las Piñas include Alabang West, a mixed-use development by Megaworld featuring a Beverly Hills-themed lifestyle concept, and a yet-to-be-named 3.4-hectare property owned and being developed by 8990 Holdings Inc.

3. Iloilo City

While not as gaudy in name as Cebu or Manila, Iloilo City has grown to rival the two in overall livability. A regional center for academic excellence, it is home to about 30 colleges and universities that produce an estimated 15,000 graduates each year. Its well-educated workforce has contributed in the city jumping four spots to 91 in Tholons’ survey of best outsourcing destinations in the world.

According to real estate services firm Colliers International, this is driving demand for office space and worker accommodations, while the increase of workers’ disposable incomes, combined with the influx of tourists, continue to attract major retailers. Seemingly in time for property investors are the rise of several developments in Iloilo, led by the continued expansion of Megaworld’s Iloilo Business Park, and the initial establishment of Ayala Land’s Atria Park District.

4. Cagayan de Oro

Real estate pundits are seemingly in agreement that apart from supply and demand, property developers are now looking at local assets, such as tourism, as another facet to consider in expansion. This may be most evident in Cagayan de Oro, a city well known for its natural and historical attractions, now in being the midst of several development launches and project turnovers. Lamudi saw residential listings in CDO lessen toward the end of 2016, indicative of the increased occupancy in the city.

According to local business monitor CDODev, key commercial projects scheduled to open in 2017 are the SM CDO Downtown Premier, which will be the second SM mall in CDO, the Seven Seas Waterpark and Resort, and a CityMall in Bulua. The Bonbon area will see a new community fish port scheduled to open later in the year, while the city proper will see the continued progress of projects like Avida’s Aspire Tower, Camella’s The Loop at Limketkai, and Cebu Landmasters’ MesaVerte Residences.

5. Bacolod City

A constant in surveys naming the best places to live in the Philippines, Bacolod is becoming additionally notable for a growing business process outsourcing (BPO) and knowledge processing outsourcing (KPO) industries, which continue to attract businesses to the city. The IT Council and the Bacolod City Government predict the industry’s current 24,000 full-time outsourcing employees to rise to 60,000 by 2022.

This has played a hand in local retail and residential growth, evidenced by upcoming developments such as Capitol Central by Ayala Land, Northill Town Center and Upper East Township by Megaworld, and CityMall Goldenfield by DoubleDragon. If looking for investment properties, Colliers recommends worker accommodations such as studio and one-bedroom apartments. Availability for these is presently limited, as evidenced by the number of modest listings for such spaces on Lamudi in 2016.

6. Lapu-Lapu City

Secondary cities continue to be in demand due to their proximity to capital or major cities while remaining relatively more affordable. In the Visayas, one such place is Lapu-Lapu City, a popular alternative to costlier Cebu City. In 2016, two-bedroom houses for sale in Lapu-Lapu City listed on Lamudi averaged Php2.295 million.

While having always had tourist opportunities due to the presence of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and its different natural and historical attractions, local real estate stock in Lapu-Lapu looks to also increase soon, with projects like Megaworld’s Mactan Newtown, Sta. Lucia’s Arterra Bayfront Residences, and Futura Homes – Mactan by Filinvest Land. The Philippine Reclamation Authority is also set to start its Mactan North Reclamation and Development project.

7. Mandaue City

There may be no better alternative for accommodations and real estate to Cebu City than Mandaue City. The latter is located at the former’s immediate northeast, and is the ideal location for home-seekers that want to invest on a home near the Visayas capital as opposed to renting a more expensive house in Cebu City itself. On Lamudi, two-bedroom houses for sale in Mandaue average Php2.631 million.

New developments continues to enter the city, as homegrown developer Iron Wood Property Ventures topped off its Northstar condominium project at the end of 2016, while firms like PrimaryHomes, Inc. have gone on record to say they are exploring Mandaue as a location for future projects. Echoing the sentiment, Colliers said it expects condominiums in the affordable segment to rise in the city.

8. Dasmariñas

With declining developable land and increasing property costs in Metro Manila, neighboring CALABARZON continues to see an increase in real estate demand, particularly from buyers foregoing starter homes for long-term properties. Seemingly one of the most viable areas in the region is Dasmariñas which, based on Lamudi’s listings data, has some of the most affordable average prices for houses for sale among CALABARZON and Metro Manila cities in 2016.

At Php2.1 million, houses with two bedrooms or more remain reasonably priced in Dasmariñas. It seems the city also offers the most options, averaging the most listings (415 per month) for multiple-bedroom homes for sale in CALABARZON. This stock will likely be furthered via upcoming projects like Sta. Lucia’s Mesilo, 150-hectare first class development, and Alveo Land’s Ardia, a prime residential subdivision set between Dasmarinas and Imus.

9. General Trias

While Dasmariñas can be deemed the option in CALABARZON for mid-priced and mid-sized residences, General Trias is seemingly the place for more modest properties. This Cavite municipality has one of the lowest average selling prices for smaller houses (at most two bedrooms) at Php833,992. Based on 2016 Lamudi data, General Trias on average has 70 such properties—two bedrooms or smaller—listed on the website in a given month.

General Trias has become a go-to location for developers and their innovative takes on affordable housing, with developers like BellaVita (an Ayala Land subsidiary) and Suntrust Properties (a subsidiary of Megaworld Corp.) having established such projects in the city. General Trias is not limited to the affordable housing market, however, as diverse projects like the 140-hectare Maple Grove, the 21st township project by Megaworld, will also soon be established in the city.

10. Davao City

Seemingly a result of the elections win of now-President Rodrigo Duterte, whom the Davao City Investment Promotions Center deems the “the perfect marketing ambassador for the city’s investment and tourism potentials,” Davao City has seen a surge of investments come from local and international parties. The Board of Investments (BOI)–Southern Mindanao affirmed this, reporting Php2.5 billion total BOI applications approved and registered from January to October of 2016 were poured into the city.

While increased awareness comes increased interest in Davao that will likely result in more investments in 2017, prices for homes for sale in the city for now have remained favorable, with two-bedroom houses listed on Lamudi for an average of around Php2.5 million in 2016.

Best Places in the Philippines for Foreign Retirees

With 7,107 islands featuring gorgeous beaches, upland communities, and busy metropolises, the Philippines offers retirement options for almost any person of any lifestyle. Thousands of islands can be challenging to choose from, especially if you are a nonresident retiree. Fortunately, by taking into combined consideration cost of living, the presence of basic necessities, and the overall retirement atmosphere of an area, it becomes just a little bit easier to narrow the list down.

1. Imus, Cavite

Imus, Cavite. Photo by Ramon F Velasquez via Wikimedia Commons

Imus is an ideal retirement location because it is very close to Metro Manila (approximately 19 km south of the capital), giving foreign retirees a quiet suburb to live in that is not too far from the conveniences of the capital. Earning cityhood in 2012, Imus itself is not one to lack in lifestyle amenities, as it is currently home to 14 commercial centers. While very urbanized, Imus still retains most of its provincial charm. There are also a number of residential developments to choose from, a few of which are upcoming projects by Ayala Land, Vista Land, and Megaworld.

Rent per month: Range from Php4,000 for a two-bedroom townhouse to Php13,000 for a three-bedroom house and lot

Hospitals: 5

Commercial centers: 14

2. Bacoor, Cavite

Bacoor, Cavite. Photo by Lawrence Ruiz via Wikimedia Commons

Widely described as a bedroom community where many of its residents are employees who commute to and from Metro Manila, Bacoor is currently transitioning from being a mainly agricultural economy to one that’s focused on residential and commercial development. Property developers have been keen on developing projects in rural–urban fringes like Bacoor, which will become the future southern terminus of the Manila Light Rail Transit System. Also, part of the city will be traversed by the future Cavite–Laguna Expressway, making travel to nearby Laguna very easy.

Along with several shopping centers, the city has a number of resorts, cultural landmarks, and festivals. And similar to Imus, it is very near Metro Manila but still has a laidback, rural atmosphere, making it an ideal place for retirees.

Rent per month: Range from Php6,500 for a three-bedroom house to Php25,000 for a house in Avida Settings Cavite

Hospitals: 8

Commercial centers: 14

3. Tagaytay City

Taal Lake and Volcano as seen from Tagaytay Ridge. Photo via Shutterstock

While widely known as a tourist destination, Tagaytay City is also an ideal retirement destination thanks to its cool climate. Located in relatively short distance from Metro Manila, it is still far enough to provide the peace and quiet that many come to the area for—not to mention spectacular views of the Taal Lake and Volcano. Although Tagaytay’s popularity as a vacation spot makes it quite costly to live in compared to the other cities on this list, Cavite’s agricultural areas ensure that fresh produce here at least is very cheap. Further, if retirees suddenly feel a need to soak up some sun, the sandy coves of Nasugbu are just a short drive away.

Hospitals: 2

Commercial centers: 4 (including partially opened Twin Lakes’ retail area)

4. Cebu City

Downtown Cebu City. Photo via Shutterstock

Among the Philippines’ top three cities, Cebu may not seem like the best place for a retiree. But on the contrary, it is actually ideal because of the comprehensive urban amenities it offers. And being an island locale, it is very near a good number of tropical resorts and natural attractions, including the white sand beaches of Mactan Island. Properties can sometimes be a little costly in Cebu given that it is a major city, but this also means that there are many options available in various estates developed by some of the country’s biggest real estate companies.

Rent per month: Range from Php18,000 for a two-bedroom townhouse in Lahug to Php140,000 for a five-bedroom house in Banilad

Hospitals: At least 16 major hospitals

Commercial centers: 29

5. Santa Rosa, Laguna

Santa Rosa City poblacion area. Photo by Ramon FVelasquez via Wikimedia Commons

Another area predominantly serving as a suburban residential community of Metro Manila, Santa Rosa is situated a mere 38 kilometers south of the National Capital Region. The premiere city and hub of South Luzon, the city is often called the Makati of the South due to its economic activity sans the density and level of urbanization. The city is popular for being the location of Nuvali, a massive estate developed by Ayala Land. Sta. Rosa is also home to a number of special economic zones, industrial parks, and master-planned communities resulting in the increase of the city’s comprehensive modern amenities.

Rent per month: Range from Php19,000 for a newly built house in Avida Parkway to Php80,000 for a five-bedroom house in Pramana Residential Estates

Hospitals: 9

Commercial centers: 11

6. Calamba, Laguna

View of Mount Makiling from Calamba. Photo via Shutterstock

Calamba is often referred to as the Resort Capital of the Philippines because of its many hot spring resorts located on the slopes of Mount Makiling. However, the city has as of late come to be known as a residential destination as well, thanks to the emergence of developments like Ayala-Greenfield Estates and Ciudad Verde.

To complement the resort-like living retirees can enjoy in Calamba, its local economy is fueled by a number of lifestyle and commercial centers, providing residents’ basic needs. If the city gets too crowded for a retiree’s liking, however, the very laid-back campus of the University of the Philippines Los Baños and the National Arts Center are just a short drive away.

Rent per month: Range from Php8,000 for a one-bedroom house to Php150,000 for a six-bedroom house in Brgy. Canlubang

Hospitals: 10

Commercial centers: 9

7. Subic Freeport Zone, Zambales

Subic Bay. Photo via Shutterstock

Renowned for being a former overseas U.S. military installation, the Subic Freeport Zone the Philippines. Along with its duty-free shopping, there are also a number of great schools, hospitals, and hotels and resorts in the city. While there is plenty to do and see is perfect for foreign retirees who want to continue their American suburban lifestyle in in the Freeport Zone, probably one its biggest draws as a retirement area is the location’s cleanliness and orderliness.

Hospitals: 3

Commercial centers: 5

8. Dumaguete City

Dumaguete City. Photo via Shutterstock

More popularly known as the “City of Gentle People,” Dumaguete City is the capital and primary seaport of Negros Oriental. Typical of a provincial capital of an island province, the city is full of beach resorts and dive sites, and is considered one of the best places for beachfront living on a budget. In fact, the city was listed among some of the most affordable and ideal places to retire to in the 2014 Retire Overseas Index.

Rent per month: Range from Php13,000 to Php18,000

Hospitals: 3 (tertiary)

Commercial centers: 5

9. Bacolod City

Bacolod City. Photo via Shutterstock

Identified by the Department of Science and Technology as a center of excellence for business process outsourcing (BPO) and information technology, the city hosts a number of BPO companies and voice call centers. While this has resulted in rapid urbanization, sugarcane plantations and heritage houses are still typical sights in the city. Like the island locale that it is, Bacolod also has a number of beach and resort properties suitable for retirement.

Hospitals: 10

Number of malls/commercial centers: 20

10. Cagayan de Oro City

Cagayan de Oro Press Freedom Monument. Photo by Amarkgio via Wikimedia

Cagayan de Oro City has long been Mindanao’s melting pot. Situated along the northern shores of the island, its economy is driven by agricultural activity and real estate developments, most notably commercial and leisure projects. However, the city also offers plenty of natural attractions, including white-water rafting in Cagayan de Oro River.

While highly urbanized and currently ranked the 10th most populated city in the Philippines, Cagayan de Oro is ideal for retirement thanks to still being somewhat rural and laid-back but also being a place with plenty of leisure and medical facilities. The city is also very accessible, with regular scheduled flights to Manila, Cebu, and Davao.

Rent per month: Range from Php16,000 for a fully furnished three-bedroom house to Php90,000 for a five-bedroom, 400-sqm house

Hospitals: 11

Commercial centers: 18

11. Davao City

Davao City’s Chinatown. Photo by Shubert Ciencia via Wikimedia

Arguably Mindanao’s commercial and business center, Davao City is a budding business hub and a popular tourist destination that many expat retirees have chosen as their retirement destination. It helps that the United States, Japan, Palau, and Malaysia have consular offices here. For such a fast-growing city, the cost of living in Davao is relatively affordable. The city is served by an international airport with regular scheduled flights to Manila, Cebu, and even Singapore, while it is also a jump-off point to Samal Island for those who would like a weekend R&R.

Rent per month: Range from Php18,000 to Php90,000

Hospitals: 31

Commercial centers: 18

12. Baguio City

Baguio City. Photo via Shutterstock

Although Baguio City has experienced rapid urbanization in the last two decades, the City of Pines has retained most of its old charm. It continues to have the trappings of a highland resort, such as quaint B&Bs, cozy cafés, breezy tourist spots, and fresh produce from neighboring La Trinidad Valley. This, coupled with the cool climate, makes the city popular with vacationers and retirees alike. Although it is significantly smaller than other cities like Manila or Cebu, it is by no means inconvenient. It has a good number of commercial centers, BPO centers, good schools, and hospitals within its boundaries.

Rent per month: Range from Php13,000 to Php110,500 for a forest cabin-style property

Hospitals: 5

Commercial centers: 6

13. Tagum City

Kayaking in Nabintad River, Tagum City. Photo by S5Switch via Wikimedia Commons

Although this city has always been overshadowed by its more popular neighbor Davao City, Tagum (the provincial capital of Davao Del Norte) has been getting a lot of attention in recent years. It is cited as one of the most livable cities in the Philippines, and is home to a number of festivals including one that celebrates music and another that celebrates bananas (one of its main crops is the beloved fruit enjoyed all over the world). The city also has a number of good hospitals, branches of national banks, tertiary schools, and shopping centers, and is conveniently accessible to Davao’s international airport through the Pan-Philippine Highway.

Hospitals: 6

Commercial centers: 4

14. Lipa City

Lipa City’s poblacion area. Photo by Ramon FVelasquez via Wikimedia Commons

A recreational, religious, commercial, industrial, and educational center for the province of Batangas, Lipa City offers an adequate deal of urban amenities set upon a rural backdrop. Its location between Mount Malarayat and Mount Makulot gives it a relatively cooler climate compared to its neighboring towns, making it an ideal location for leisure estates that target vacationers and retirees alike. It is home to a number of health resorts, golf estates, and gated communities.

Rent per month: A typical newly built, three-bedroom house rents for Php25,000

Hospitals: 10

Commercial centers: 2 (major shopping malls)

15. Batangas City

Port of Batangas. Photo via Wikimedia Commons

The largest city and provincial capital of Batangas, it is deemed as one of the fastest growing cities in the Philippines. Dubbed as the industrial port city of the CALABARZON region, Batangas City’s economy is mainly driven by trade, services, and manufacturing. Despite all this, the city is still relatively laid-back. Living in Batangas City gives retirees a central location that is accessible to beach resorts and trek sites. It is also the jump-off point to Puerto Galera in Mindoro Island.

Rent per month: A typical newly built, three-bedroom house rents for Php25,000

Hospitals: 5

Commercial centers: 9