Federal Land paints Cebu’s skyline anew with the rise of Marco Polo Parkplace, the fifth tower of its luxury condominium, Marco Polo Residences. The 30-storey building perched atop Cebu's exclusive Nivel Hills is Federal Land’s newest offer for the Visayan region, capturing a panoramic view of the city’s bluest coasts and hillsides next to its thriving metropolis.
Amid tremendous success in Metro Manila, Federal Land continues to expand its footprint to cater to the strong market demand it found beyond the country’s capital. Proving success knows no physical boundaries, Federal Land remains committed to contribute to the progress of the communities it operates in.
Setting foot on Visayas’ potent lands
In 2010, despite the decline of construction in the country’s major business districts in the National Capital Region (NCR), Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported a stabilizing economy in Western and Central Visayas. This was attributed to the surge in Tourism, Retail, Service and Industry sectors brought about by the influx of tourists flocking the region for travel, business, and resettlement. Recognizing the region’s potential early on, Federal Land found a demand for property investments as prospects for relocation escalates, prompting the construction of Marco Polo Residences in Cebu in the same year.
Today, so robust is the Visayas economy that more investments have been pouring into the region. According to the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index 2018 by the Department of Trade and Industry, Bacolod, Cebu, and Iloilo are in the top 15 most competitive highly urbanized cities in the country based on economic dynamism, government efficiency, infrastructure, and resiliency. With this positive environment, businesses such as Business Process Outsourcing firms have moved out of Metro Manila to establish offices in Cebu and Bacolod, with many investors eyeing Iloilo for expansion with its recent infrastructure developments and the opening of the Iloilo International Airport.
Visayas also continues to be a strong region for real estate investments. Research group Numbeo reveals that rental yield (annual rent to house price ratio) for properties in Cebu City are at 4.63%, at par with Metro Manila’s 4.98%. Key Visayan cities pose much promise as well, with Iloilo posting a rental yield of 4.58% outside the city center, Dumaguete at 3.67% at the city center, and Bacolod clocking in rental yield of 9.36% at the city center.
Spreading roots in Visayas with Marco Polo Residences
With its 47 year-legacy of excellence and expertise in personifying cities, Federal Land built its first luxury hotel-branded residence in the region, and in one of the fastest-rising metros – Cebu City. Marco Polo Residences, the four-tower condominium boasts of its exquisite design and extensive facilities that represent the vibrance of Cebu, and the flair of the iconic Marco Polo brand.
Marco Polo Residences has set the bar for high-rise condo developments, gaining industry recognition such as the “Best Condo Development in Cebu” award in 2014 followed by a Highly Commended award at the South East Asia Property Awards in the same year, while further influencing the Cebu’s real estate growth. This year, real estate expert group Lamudi recognized Federal Land’s innovation in the local market with five nominations for The Outlook Award 2019. Among these nominations are “Best Premium Condominium in Visayas and Mindanao - Marco Polo Residences” and “Best Developer in Visayas and Mindanao”. Award winners will be announced in November.
Federal Land further solidifies its presence in the Visayan region with the latest addition to the deluxe condo – the Marco Polo Parkplace. From its aesthetic design to its modern facilities, the newest tower marries Cebu’s chic modernity and rustic charm with the Marco Polo brand's trademark of world-class excellence.
Parkplace’s unique design resembling two connecting pearls emphasizes curves that create visually fluid spaces. The coordinated palettes, patterns, and texture of its interiors exude elegance, while its extensive set of amenities for play and leisure embrace a world of lifestyles.
The 3-hectare property houses 350 units that offer a selection of studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom units with living spaces ranging from 30 sqm to 79 sqm, providing residents freedom of choice and the space to relax in their own personal sanctuaries.
While mindful of individual comfort, Parkplace extends possibilities for pleasure and relaxation with a range of recreational options, including different areas for fitness, games, and entertainment. Residents can also choose from various facilities such as: Circuit Training and Yoga Studio, Art Room, KTV Room, Mini Theater, Sky Lounge, and the Golf Simulator. Marco Polo Parkplace provides an amenity spread of over 40 recreational facilities to enjoy.
Visayas as a Powerhouse
With the success of Marco Polo Residences, and Parkplace coming to fruition, Federal Land has identified the massive potential of Visayas as a powerhouse region.
While, individually, Visayan cities have become more aggressive in their efforts to become strong economic players, Federal Land sees the interconnection of Cebu, Bacolod, and Iloilo as a major commerce and tourism hub in Visayas. With all three cities home to international airports, Cebu, Bacolod and Iloilo have direct access to an influx of foreign expatriates and tourism from different parts of Asia and the rest of the world. As the government pushes for investment, commercial and infrastructure expansion into other urban center outside of Metro Manila, Federal Land believes that it is only a matter of time for businesses in many industries to diversify their portfolio into these cities, most especially for real estate.