(This article first appeared on Manila Bulletin, November 12, 2019 issue)

The Philippine real estate industry continues to enjoy steady growth attributed to, among other things, a steady increase in demand in the residential condominium segment.

As the income of the middle to upper middle class grows, their taste has also become more discerning. They are now more concerned about products that are reflective of their lifestyle choices and products that provide convenience and comfort.

Real estate developer, Federal Land, Inc., recognized this shift in Remand. In one of their recent forays, they have chosen to collaborate with a property developer from Japan, Nomura Real Estate Development, Co., Ltd., whose vision for quality, value, and customer satisfaction equals their own.

Founded in 1957 in Tokyo, Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. is one of the affiliates of the Nomura Group of Companies which has a history of more than 90 years of investment banking experience. One of the more prominent members of this group is Nomura Securities, one of Japan’s largest financial institutions.

The real estate company engages in residential development, corporate real estate brokerage, commercial property development, building leasing, and architectural design businesses across Japan, and recently, in China, Vietnam, and Thailand.

Nomura has not only dedicated itself to going beyond normal design boundaries, but has continuously explored new technologies that better serves the urban landscape of its properties.

Under its quality residential brands, Proud and Ohana, Nomura has gained a reputation for quality in locations they are present in, bringing value to the environments they build.

“As a company, we look for equally strong partners in every project. We consider it an honor to bring the excellence that Nomura Real Estate is known for and to share it with the Philippines. We’re very happy to find a good partner in Federal Land Inc. so we can transform our vision of integrating all that is precious to people and communities, into reality,” said Eij’i Kutsukake, chairman of Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd.

The Seasons Residences is the first project of the partnership between Federal Land, Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd., and retail giant, Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings, Co. Ltd. It is a four-tower Japanese-inspired residential development which will be home to the first Mitsukoshi Mall in the country.

It is currently under construction at Federal Land’s Grand Central Park in Bonifacio Global City.

This venture promises to offer a harmonious, innovative, and technology-led home that elevates the lifestyles of the growing population of discerning buyers.

“By combining our knowledge and enthusiasm with our high level of technical skills, we can offer the best products and services to the, partnership,” Kutsukake said.

The Seasons Residences benefits from Nomura’s expertise on design efficiency. Among other features, this translates to maximized storage spaces within the units, clean technology (where each unit wiljt have tiles that minimize excess’ humidity, unpleasant odors, and harmful substances in the air), and safety (the use of visco-elastic coupling dampers to reduce wind and earthquake vibrations).

The partnership will also be building the much-anticipated Mitsukoshi Mall at the podium of the residential towers of The Season Residences. This four-story retail development is set to provide a holistic Japanese shopping experience to Filipinos.

 

 

Though it is best known as the Shoe Capital of the Philippines, Marikina is now home to a variety of restaurants that will pique your interest and tickle your taste buds. From all-time breakfast favorites and classic comfort food to Asia fusion with a twist, foodies will have a hard time deciding what to try first. So here are a few favorite restaurants you shouldn’t miss when driving east of Metro Manila.

Fino Deli

Photo via Fino Deli Facebook Page

Fino Deli is the first wine bar and delicatessen in Marikina City.  Aside from a great wine and cheese selection, they serve classic Italian and Spanish fares. The classy and rustic interior sets the right vibe to make sure you savor every bite.

Must try:  Cinco Queso, Truffle Mushroom Pasta, Tomahawk Porkchop

Address: 151 SE Dao, Marikina Heights, Marikina City

Ca Phe Saigon

Photo via Ca Phe Saigon Facebook Page

Hidden in an unassuming house in a Marikina residential area, Ca Phe Saigon is a culinary gem that will satisfy your cravings for Vietnamese food.  This hole-in-the-wall serves a selection of soup noodles, rolls, sandwiches, and salads.  And with a Vietnamese leading the kitchen, you are guaranteed an authentic and healthy meal.

Must try:  Banh Mi, Beef Pho, Vietnamese Coffee

Address: 14 Red Cedar Street, New Marikina, San Roque, Marikina City

 Rustic Mornings by Isabelo

Photo via Rustic Mornings Facebook Page

What’s better than an indulgent breakfast? Breakfast in the garden! Rustic Mornings by Isabelo is a garden restaurant known for its serene al fresco dining setting and all-day breakfast menu. Their international and local brunch dishes are pleasing chow to start – or restart – your day right.

Must Try: Buttermilk Pancakes, Waffle Churros, Tinapa Burrito

Address: 11 Isabelo Mendoza Street, San Roque, Marikina City (6 min drive)

 

Café Lidia

Photo via Café Lidia Facebook Page

Café Lidia is named after its owner, Lidia.  A former shoe entrepreneur, Lidia has successfully established a widely popular restaurant in Marikina known for its pizza and pasta.  This warm, homey cafe is often jam-packed, so make sure to reserve a table beforehand.

Must Try: Pizza, Pasta, Buffalo Wings, Nachos Grande

Address: 64 F. Calderon, Calumpang, Marikina City (8 min drive)

 

Balestier

Photo via Balestier Facebook Page

East meets West in Marikina with Balestier’s unique take on Asian fusion cuisine. Balestier gives a fun new twist to well-loved Singaporean, Japanese, and Italian dishes.  For instance, the Laksa Tsukumen is laksa served tsukemen-style where the noodles are served separately from the broth.

Must try:  Laksa Tsukemen, Hainanese Chicken, Salted Egg Wings,

Address:  14 Nicanor Roxas St, San Roque, Marikina City

Miguel and Maria

Photo via Miguel and Maria Zomato Listings

Miguel and Maria is a neighborhood bar and restaurant serving all-time favorite feel-good food in generous servings.  It is also a cozy drinking spot, offering both international and local brews.

Must try:  Baby Back Ribs, Buffalo Wings, Mashed Potato

Address:  89 Lilac St., Concepcion Dos, Marikina City

 

Krung Thai

Photo via Krung Thai Facebook Page

When you’re craving for some Pad Thai and curry, Krung Thai has got you covered. Krung Thai serves authentic and affordable Thai dishes in generous servings that are big enough to share with family and friends.

Must try:  Pad Thai, Pork Satay, Bagoong Fried Rice

Address:  Marikina Public Market, M Cruz Corner WC Paz, Santa Elena, Marikina City

 

Forget Me Not Café

Photo via Forget Me Not Café

This unforgettable little café serves home-cooked meals that remind you of family dinners and delectable baked treats perfect for coffee and tea.  The hodgepodge of picnic chairs, couches, romantic photos, and dainty flower stencils capture the comforting ambiance of coming home.

Must try:  Roast Beef Sandwich, Nutella Cheesecake, Homemade Corned Beef

Address:  24 Lilac St, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City

 

In love with this foodie’s paradise? Federal Land’s  Siena Towers is only a mere four to ten-minute drive from these restaurants. Located near Marquinton Residences along Sumulong Highway, Siena Towers is a two-tower condominium community with pre-selling and ready for occupancy condominium units for sale.  It offers beautiful and secure homes ideal for starting families.  Residents will enjoy outstanding amenities and proximity to business hubs, shopping centers, and premier schools like Miriam College, Ateneo de Manila University, and the University of the Philippines Diliman.