Iloilo Business Park gets ready to shine with 1st 3D Light Show Tonight

In the early eighteenth century, Paris was the first city to illuminate its streets. The many gas-lit walkways were so attractive to the visitors, who, fascinated by the look that the city took at night, gave it the name “City of Lights”.

There’s nothing more exciting than getting a first preview of what it’s like to get a piece of this dream-like city in Iloilo. Watch Iloilo Business Park light up on October 22 as it officially launches Saint Honore, its new residential masterpiece, with the first and biggest 3-D mapping lights show in the region.

Saint Honore is a low-rise property inspired by the classic architectural designs found in Rue Saint-Honore, a historical street in Paris. With a striking and elegant façade, the new residential tower will emanate timeless luxury, comprising only of 168 units ranging from studio to executive 2-bedrooms.

Select units will have its own lanai or balcony with a magnificent view of the township or Iloilo skyline. The property will have its own lifestyle amenity deck on the third floor composed of a swimming pool, a pool lounge, a kiddie pool, a Jacuzzi, function halls, and a fitness center. The atrium, located at the ground level, will serve as the centerpiece of the development, replete with garden landscape with trellised seating, while a strip of boutiques and retail shops will border the ground floor area of the property.

During the official launch of Saint Honore, a 3-D mapping lights show will be projected onto the Two Global Center building, in front of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, starting at 8 pm. While there, they can also enjoy alfresco dining at the township’s newly-opened restaurants such as Cable Car, Farm to Table, and DoVa Brunch Cafe.

Aside from the light show, the night promises a fireworks display, music performances and more. There’s a special treat for those who will purchase a Saint Honore unit on Saturday night. Roundtrip airfare tickets for two heading to Macau plus 3D/2N stay at The Parisian Macao await those who will buy a two bedroom Saint Honore unit.

Meanwhile, if they opt for a one bedroom unit, they can avail free roundtrip airfare tickets for two going to Manila plus a 3D/2N stay at Marriott Hotel Manila with access to the Executive Lounge. If buyers go for an executive studio unit, they will have a free 3D/2N stay at Richmonde Hotel Iloilo’s Suite Room with free daily breakfast and afternoon tea.

For more details, call (033) 330-3464 or drop by at the IBP Sales and Information Center, any day of the week.

Saint Honore Resembles French Architecture

Interior design of the Nave of Chartres Cathedral, Chartres, France 12th-13th centuries

A passionate look on French architecture and structures created in the area of Europe that is now France has left remarkable legacy from the past. French architecture has been shaped and influenced by various era of art and culture. It defined one of the most enduring designs in history brought into our modern world. Here's the first part of our series of feature on French architecture that continues to remain in the creative essence of artists and architects of our modern world. 

Maison Carree, Nimes, France 1st century BC finest surviving example of a roman temple, the blending of etruscan and Greek elements

Early French Architecture

The earliest surviving architecture in France dates to the Stone Age, as a number of prehistoric sites in Brittany attest. Classical architecture was introduced into the south of France during the Roman conquest in the 1st century A.D. Well-preserved examples of Roman architecture include the Maison Carrée and the Pont du Gard near Nîmes. Scant traces remain of the early development of Gallic architecture, including Early Christian, Merovingian, and Carolingian buildings. The Roman basilica form predominated and, during the Carolingian period, was greatly enriched by design innovations. 

Paris Winter White Windows Lace Balconies - Paris Window Balcony Architecture Art Nouveau

The Flowering of French Architecture

Innovations manifested in Carolingian buildings gave rise to the architecture of the Romanesque period, when many fine works were executed in France, and to the great cathedrals of the Gothic style, of which France was the principal center - Romanesque architecture and art, Gothic architecture and art. Many superb medieval monuments are still extant, including St. Sernin, Toulouse (1080–1120) and Chartres Cathedral (begun 1194). 

Typical apartment design in the Paris

The Renaissance

The revival of classical art and architecture during the Renaissance spread from Italy to France in the 15th and 16th century, giving rise to the majority of the famous French châteaux, primarily in the Loire valley. During the first half of the 16th century, Francis I established his court at Fontainebleau outside Paris, where he employed numerous Italian architects and artists, including Sebastiano Serlio, Il Rosso, and Francesco Primaticcio. At the same time native architects came into favor; they included Pierre Lescot, who built parts of the Louvre (begun 1546), and Philibert Delorme, who designed the Château of Anet (1547–55).

Classy night facade, Saint Honore relives French architectural design

A Reflection of French Architectural Vision 

In Iloilo City, a piece of French architectural design will be beautifully replicated through the rise of Saint Honore, the newest residential tower offered by Iloilo Business Park for future residents of the township. Collecting inspirations from French architecture, Megaworld, the country's real estate giant is envisioning to bring a piece of Paris to the 'city of love' with this project. 

Saint Honore honors the art of French artistry with its gorgeous facade and vibrant colors. The 10-storey condominium tower offers seamless comfort and luxury with a total of 168 units ranging from executive studio, one bedroom to two bedroom units. Taking your leisure fantasy to life, the tower has its own third level amenity deck where a gorgeous swimming pool, pool lounge, jacuzzi, fitness center and function hall defines true relaxation and pleasure. The inspiring attempt of Megaworld to capture the beauty of Paris' very own public garden, the Jardin de Tuilleries, pave way for the rise of the tower's Atrium, a replete landscaped garden complete with seating trellis, recreational areas and accented by artworks and sculptures. 

Saint Honore is a short distance from other notable attractions in Iloilo Business Park including the Festive Walk Parade where is a part of the 1.1 kilometer shop-and-dine strip, Festive Walk Mall, Iloilo Convention Center, BPO buildings, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, Marriot Courtyard Hotel and the township's Commercial District. 

If French architectural design is legendary and iconic, Saint Honore embraces the impressive essence of Paris lifestyle, showcasing the beauty of the past and bringing a piece of it to Iloilo City. 

We'll be discussing more on French architectural designs in the coming articles and we will keep up inspired why Saint Honore is definitely Iloilo Business Park's most gorgeous and highly-recommended lifestyle tower that can fulfill your dreams.

Do you have more inquiries about the project? Call us at (033) 330-3464 or visit IBP Sales and Information Center open seven days a week.  

A Glimpse of Iloilo's 2 Classy Hotels

Two first-class hotels within a first-class city of Iloilo, Iloilo Business Park’s high-end hotels – Richmonde Hotel Iloilo and Courtyard by Marriot set the vision of alleviating the standard of hotel accommodation in the region. Tourists and visitors are eager to experience the high-end services that these two classy hotels are offering, giving a boost to local tourism, and pave way for the city to hold huge conventions and events. Let’s get to know again these two tourism gems, the township’s pride when it comes to elegant accommodation that surrounds the 3,700-seater Iloilo Convention Center.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo

The Granary is the hotel's first-class restaurant that serves luscious culinary fare

Richmonde Hotel's newly-opened Pool Deck for relaxation and pleasure

One of the hotel's de luxe rooms

A business classy hotel with passionate standard of service, the 12-storey Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is provides ultimate pleasure for visitors with top-notch hotel rooms, high-end restaurant The Granary and Bizbar lounge. Its stunning pool deck located in the 7^th floor showcases extraordinary relaxation among its visitors and guests. The hotel opened in 2014 and set the elevation of hotel services in the city with highly-elegant vision and concept. The hotel’s interior architectural design is exclusively designed by Getty’s, one of the world’s best known hotel design firms.

Courtyard by Marriot

Present construction update of Courtyard by Marriot set to open this 2016

Artist's perspective of Courtyard by Marriot

The most prestigious international hotel to open in the region, the 16-storey Courtyard by Marriot exudes elegance and top-notch hotel services Megaworld, the country’s leading real estate developer that pioneered the ‘live-work-play-learn’ lifestyle township concept in the Philippines, is allocating P1.5 billion to build the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in the 72-hectare Iloilo Business Park. Courtyard by Marriott, from Marriott International’s portfolio of world-class brands, is all about ‘Refreshing Business.’ The brand aims to provide guests with an environment that offers smart, energizing choices so that they can make the most of their time on the road. Catering to guests with the most discerning tastes, the hotel is equipped with 314 spacious rooms and suites. The hotel comprises 121 King Rooms, 140 Doubles, 32 Executive Rooms and 16 Suites. All rooms will have a curtain wall system that provides an amazing view of the urban landscape of Iloilo Business Park. Aside from the simple yet elegant furnishings, guests can also enjoy the amenities that include a lounge bar, meeting rooms, swimming pool with pool bar, outdoor bar and grill, state-of-the-art gym and business center.

In the recent 2016 Philippine Property Awards, Courtyard by Marriot bagged two ‘Highly Commended’ awards for Best Hotel Development and Best Hotel Interior Design at the 2016 Philippines Property Awards held recently at the Fairmont Hotel, Makati City. The hotel is set to open this year.

Nature run from cancer kicks off at Sta. Barbara Heights May 7

 

 

Experience nature fun run from cancer in the newest healthy lifestyle haven Sta. Barbara Heights Residential Estates at Brgy. Inangayan, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo on May 7, 2016 starting at 5AM to 8AM.

Running enthusiasts, for an affordable P100 registration fee, will have the opportunity to sprint their stuffs through the 3-km or 5-km hilly terrain offering a whole new exciting exercise while embracing the natural, ecologically-friendly and fresh atmosphere.

Students are encouraged to bring and present their ID to avail of free participation.

Participants will not only enjoy the sweet escape from stress but will run for a reason in support of a great cause to win the battle against a dreaded disease as 50 percent of the net proceeds will go to the chosen beneficiary.

Studies show that running on inclined surfaces is less boring as it activates 9 percent more of leg muscles’ strength and power. This is in comparison to running on flat surface that just burn calories and trains your heart.

So what are you waiting for? Pick up those running shoes and find your way to indulge in the initial offerings of the Sta. Barbara Heights township project which will soon become the leading lifestyle destination in town, a sanctuary away from the busy city life.

For registration please contact: mobile 09177291564 or telephone (033) 335-01026/ 335-0128.

IBP's Leisure Hot Spots Unveiled

Excited for Iloilo Business Park's full swing developments of its leisure and entertainment hot spots? Find your favorite destinations only here as we reveal the 72-hectare business township's future perspective and recent updates ready for 2016 opening.

Festive Walk Mall

The Festive Walk Mall is a the township’s high-end shopping center where international boutiques, retail shops, bistros, an events center and 8 world-class cinemas defines ultimate leisure and entertainment.

Target completion and opening: Last quarter of 2016. 

Street of Festive Walk

A 1.1-kilometer longest retail and dining strip in Visayas and Mindanao where prominent restaurants, bistros, pubs, retail shops and boutique showcase a defining new lifestyle in the region.

Target completion and opening: Last quarter of 2016. 

Iloilo Convention Center

The region’s most modern convention venue complete with function rooms that can accommodate more than 3,700 audiences. Its architectural design is inspired by Iloilo’s Dinagyang and Paraw Regatta Festivals.

Recent updates: Complete construction, launched and opened in September 2016, venue of the APEC 2015 ministerial meetings.

BPO Buildings

Iloilo Business Park’s BPO buildings made up the largest IT Park in the region where multinational BPO companies currently operates and provides competitive jobs for local BPO professionals. 10 BPO Buildings are expected to rise and open 30,000 jobs in the next 10 years.

Recent updates: One Global Center and Two Global Center opened in 2014, Richmonde Tower (catering to BPO companies) opened in 2014, One Techno Place and Two Techno Place are set to be completed and open this 2016.

Megaworld Boulevard

The township’s main thoroughfare that retained 30% of Iloilo’s old airport runway connects all the high-endestablishments and destinations, complete with Bike Lanes for healthy activities and green stripes that provides scenic view in Iloilo Business Park.

Recent updates: Open for public, functional and paving way for opening of other leisure destinations in the township.

Boutique Hotel and Commercial District

Envisage as the next Central Business District (CBD) in the Visayas, the 9-hectare, 10 blocks and 60 prime lots composed the Boutique Hotel and Commercial District set to become the financial and leisure epicentre of the township in the future.

Recent updates: 80% of commercial lots are already sold-out to bank institutions and financial companies whose goal is to open regional headquarters in the township soon. Local entrepreneurs has already secured their own commercial lots for future business ventures.  

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo

A business classy hotel with passionate standard of service, the 12-storey Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is provides ultimate pleasure for visitors with top-notch hotel rooms, high-end restaurant The Granary and Bizbar lounge. Its stunning swimming pool located in the 7^th floor showcases relaxation like no other.

Recent updates: Open and launched the hotel's Pool Deck at the 7th floor last February 2016. 

Courtyard by Marriot

The most prestigious international hotel to open in the region, the 22-storey Courtyard by Marriot exudes elegance and top-notch hotel services. It has its own international hotel restaurant, lounge bar, world-class amenities and highest standard of service, making it the most-anticipated hotel to open in 2016.

Target completion and opening: Expected to open in the middle of 2016. 

The Northern Pearls of Iloilo

Text by Bombette G. Marin, photos by Jason Matias, Bombette G. Marin, Vincent Angelo Gefes and Reynaldo Paguntalan Jr.

Looking for a turquoise ocean and a deserted, white-sand beach?Iloilo has an intense variety and striking beauty of the islands in the north.Pristine palm fringed beaches with clear waters are everywhere in this area. Some are even of high ecological value due to its protected areas, native fauna and rare ecosystems.

With a string of 67 islands, these natural beauties sit on azure waters. From the more popular island beaches of Carles and Concepcion to the lesser known waters in Ajuy, the northern portion of the province has a tropical vibe that few can resist. Most of these island beaches have been unspoiled by pollution and tourism and appeals more to the adventurous tourists, backpackers and nature-lovers.

Hibotkan Rock Sanctuary, Banate is a Marine sanctuary that covers 25 hectares but only 1 hectare is exposed to the sun during low tide. There 16 families of corals are found with 34 species being observed. It is also abundant with tropical fishes.  It is found in between the municipal waters of town and Guimaras Strait and is a paradise for tourists who enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving and underwater photography.

MARBUENA BEACH RESORT in Binongan-an Island, Ajuy is a beautiful holiday destination that boasts of its white sand beach and plenty of things to do which include boating, fishing, snorkeling and trekking. Around the resort are religious images where one is constantly reminded of God’s love and protection of man and nature. The beach area has picnic and napping shelters. It is a10-minute motorized boat ride from Barangay Morocoro wharf.

Sitio Salog Gamay in Barangay Punta Buri, Ajuy is an island that is off the main tourist track about 10 kilometers or a 45-minutes motorized boat ride from Barangay Morocoro wharf. With no tourist amenities, however, the island only offer a place where you can hang a hammock and lean back, enjoy the sound of the waves without crowds ruining the peace and quiet. It has a soft, creamy sand beach that is laid back and perfect for relaxing and taking it easy.

Photo by Gerard Villareal

Calabazas Island, SitioNasidman, Ajuyis this town’s popular dive site. Its coral garden isa come on for visitors who would like to go snorkeling. It is home to an 1884 Spanish Lighthouse. The keeper’s house, now in ruins still holds the 45 feet high tower with a focal plane of 100 feet. It is included as one of the 27 Spanish Lighthouses in the Philippines.

 

Sandbar Island Beach Resort in Barangay Polopińa, SitioBulubadiangan, Concepcionhas increased its popularity and has made all its adjacent island beaches so lively as well. It can be reached within 30 minutes through a motorized boat ride from the municipal wharf.  Its white coral sand beach and clear blue waters is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. The most attractive feature of this resort is its sandbar.

 

Sitio Sanggutan in Barangay Polopińa, Concepcion has a coastline with fringes of coconut trees offering visitors a pleasant atmosphere. Its calm sea is also suitable for swimming and boating. It has an accommodation that appeals to those who love comfort and tranquility amidst pristine nature. It is fronting Sandbar Island Beach Resort. From the municipal wharf, it is a 30 minute motorized boat ride to the island.

Agho Island, Concepcion is a picnic island destination set on a serene surrounding with its dazzling white sandy beach and a sweeping view of the islands of Igbon, Mangalabang and Tambaliza. The alluring emptiness of its white sand beach offers a personal oasis in nature's tropical playground. Relax and listen to the sound of the breeze in the trees and the gentle waves on the beach.

Barangay Taloto-an in Pan de Azucar Island, Concepcion has a laid-back lifestyle from an off the beaten path. Though the island is inhabited and with traces of destruction from the recent typhoon, a considerate portion in the island provides ample opportunity to relax in its natural and secluded beauty. There are no rooms with bathroom facilities, as tourists do not commonly visit the area.

Barangay Tambaliza, Pan de Azucar Island, Concepcionis famous for its landmark, Mt. Manaphag or popularly known as Pan de Azucar. It has budget-conscious accommodation establishments that rest at the foothill of the majestic mountain. Its beach features golden sand, palm trees and shallow water that provide swimming, snorkeling and boating opportunities.

LUMPATAN, Concepcion is mainly made up of granite rocks. The first thing visitors will probably want to do when in the area is to walk to its 300-meter trail that frames almost half of the island. The beach, however, is rocky, with corals and pebbles, but is a place for a gentle swim capped by happy hours of sunbathing. It is a great spot to relax.

MAGALUMBI ISLAND, Barangay Tanao Batadis a privately-owned island with creamy sand complimenting its bluish green waters perfect for swimming and boating activities. It is a 15-minute motorized boat ride from Barangay Banban or a 10-minute motorized boat ride from barangay Binon-an. The island barangays of Concepcion, Estancia and Carles serves as its backdrop.

 

Antonia Island in Barangay Gabi, Gigantes Sur, Carlesis a privately-owned small island of enormous beauty with the least signs of civilization. This is one of the very few islands in Carles that is nearly uninhabited. It is no wonder a lot of visitors, mostly beach lovers and backpackers find it hard to leave.  It has grown into an energetic destination for young travelers looking to sunbathe with a bit more privacy.

SITIO PULUPANDAN, Barangay Gabi, Carles is an idyllic deserted white-sand coral islet lapped by turquoise waters. The place is simply stunning,almost an hour awayby motorized boat from the mainland. The islet serves as a resting area for fishermen in the area. The isletis a perfect place to go snorkeling and diving.

 

Tangke, Barangay Gabi in Isla de Gigantes Sur, Carlesis a hidden saltwater lagoon formed by a surrounding wall of granite monolithic cliffs. During low tide, the level of water also recedes but also rises when it is high tide. Visitors to the area need to climb on its steep rocky wall that serves as the lagoon’s fortress. However, an easier and shorter climb from where the motorized-boat docks alongside its walls is done only during high tide. The lagoon’s rocky borders offer visitors one-of-a-kind formations.

Cabugao Gamay, Gigantes Norte, Carles is a privately-owned island surrounded by azure waters excellent for swimming and snorkeling activities. It is one of Iloilo’s most popular island-hop spots. After docking at the base of the island, a climb up the rocky hill steps to a breathtaking view of its outlying area and it is well worth the effort. Several other white sand island beaches are seen adjacent to the beach.

These northern island beaches are a far cry away from the crowded resorts of the neighboring provinces in the region. For those who would to stay overnight and experience the serenity of rural life, there are lodging houses in the area. There is enough space and so few visitors that you will probably find a spot just for yourself. If you are lucky enough to make it to any of these northern pearls, you will have an island experience that will surely give you a lifetime of memories.

For more information, please contact the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism of the Iloilo Provincial Government at telefax (033) 3384910.

Iloilo Bike Fest Inspires a 'Bike-Safe' City

"Bike on Lights" added excitement and glitter in this year's Iloilo Bike Festival

"Bike on Lights" winner Joe Fondevilla showcases his colorfully-lighted bike during the competition

The 3rd Iloilo Bike Festival resonated a vision of bike-friendly and bike safe metropolis for Iloilo City as thousands of bikers gathered to join the series of events and fun activities from March 13-19. A partnership event of the City Government of Iloilo, Megaworld Corporation and Ronda Pilipinas,the week long event became a sensational attraction in Iloilo Business Park, the 72-hectare business and leisure township in Mandurriao District. The event opened with Ronda Pilipinas Criterium in Iloilo Business Park in the early morning of March 13. The most anticipated new event in this year's Bike Festival is "Bike on Lights," a gathering of bike lovers who paraded their bikes with colorful lights and designs in the evening of March 19. To showcase arts and culture, there's Pinta Siklista which showcased a parade of multi-colored painted participants with their bikes.

Richmonde Hotel Iloilo Hotel Manager, Natalie Lim awards the prize for first place winner of "Bike on Lights"

Participants are getting ready to parade and showcase their colorfully-lighted bike

Iloilo City official led by Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and Megaworld - Iloilo Business Park Vice President for Sales and Marketing, Jennifer Ann Palmares-Fong led the formal ceremonies of Iloilo Bike Festival

The vision of the Iloilo Bike Festival is to emphasize Iloilo City as the country's most bike-friendly metropolis in the Philippines. In fact, Iloilo takes pride of its 5-meter bike lanes along the Diversion Road (Benigno Aquino Avenue) going to Iloilo Business Park to showcase another significant attraction that encourages Ilonggos and visitors to enjoy the healthy ambiance and activities of the city. The City of Government of Iloilo and Megaworld Corporation partnered and agreed to hold the annual Iloilo Bike Festival until 2020, a passion to encourage healthy lifestyle and a "bike-able" Iloilo City.