City Spotlight: Makati

It has always been important for real estate professionals like us to know the history of the cities we represent and a brief overview of their future developments. I have used these types of information to enhance my client’s knowledge on the area they’re investing in. With this, I would like to share more about the prestigious and thriving city of Makati.

In real estate, may it be for residential or business purposes, location has always been the key to your success. Since the early 1960’s, Makati has built a solid reputation for that.  The affluent, investors and business magnates laid their hat there and called it their home. Bringing with them their companies and vision of greatness, Makati became the city for you to make a name.

Not known to many, it used to be an airport back in the day called Nielson Field. The paved street of Paseo de Roxas and a portion of Ayala Avenue were runways for what was considered the first international airport of Metro Manila. This old airport is now our Central Business District. After World War II, the Nielson Tower was kept and preserved. It is now called The Blackbird, a fine dining restaurant to commemorate its deep history.

Armed with a master plan for success, Makati slowly transformed into the financial and commercial capital of the country. In the 1970’s, it was detached from the Rizal province and was recognized as a city while it continued its progress.

After the 1986 People Power Revolution, which has led to the demise of its Mayor at that time, Jejomar Binay was then appointed as acting mayor. He and his family have continued up to this day their dominance and control over the municipality. His daughter, Abigail Binay is the current mayor and is well loved by her constituents. I have always been doing property transactions with the Makati City Hall. They have always been efficient and very helpful while having their big smiles on their faces. It is a sign that their Mayor really takes good care of them.

With the numerous projects ahead such as the new Mandarin Oriental Hotel, The One Ayala Project, The Circuit, a river side development, Ayala North Exchange and the underpass bridge connecting the city to its thriving neighbors Fort BGC and Ortigas Center to name a few. One can only get excited how it’ll transform itself to remain a destination of business and pleasure.

I grew up seeing this city evolve as I went to school there since the late 80’s. Every year there was always something new being built. As these structures started to rise and the pace was getting faster, one thing was constant. The city and its attractive lights is just a magnet for people who have made it in life and those who have big dreams of getting there. To exemplify, it is still the zip code of Manila’s elite with their opulent real estate. Thus, the future will always be bright for Makati City.

By: Peter Norrdell

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