Why moving north of the metro makes sense


Infrastructure developments make moving up north even more enticing.

While provinces north of Manila have always been top-of-mind destinations of those looking for a respite from the busy metropolis, it is now gaining even more traction—not only among weekend travelers but also potential homebuyers.

“Bulacan, Pampanga, and other areas in Central Luzon have long been a favored choice. Whether one is in search of delectable cuisine, vacation spots to explore, or a space to simply relax and unwind, this region definitely has something to offer. This is also why we have long established a steady presence in these areas,” said Sta. Lucia Land Inc. president Exequiel Robles.

“It makes sense for individuals to regard Central Luzon as a choice address. For one, it’s an attractive destination for local and foreign investors owing to the availability of skilled manpower and the continued roll out of key infrastructure projects in this region including airports, roads, ports, and railways. With a booming economy, the region can offer opportunities for quality jobs and a modern lifestyle as seen in urban centers,” Robles added.

Colliers Philippines shared this view of Northern and Central Luzon’s potential of becoming a major economic corridor.

“Macroeconomic figures indicate that these regions are among the most competitive in the country. Central Luzon, composed of Pampanga, Bulacan, Tarlac, Bataan, Zambales, Aurora, and Nueva Ecija, has been growing by about eight percent a year from 2017 to 2018. It covers 10 percent of the Philippine gross domestic product (GDP). The region is a major manufacturing location, with its industrial parks being among the key export processing sites in the country. The region is also one of the largest sources of overseas Filipino workers which, anecdotally, had driven the demand for residential projects,” it said.

It added that ongoing infrastructure projects like Skyway Stage 3, Clark Airport expansion, Subic-Clark cargo railway, and Manila-Clark passenger railway will further strengthen the region’s position as a viable investment destination.

“Our developments in the north are sure to benefit from the ongoing buzz in the area. We cannot ignore the huge potential for growth of North and Central Luzon and I believe that homebuyers and investors alike should really consider buying a home in these areas. Sta. Lucia Land has many projects in the north that can fit the needs of the times and provide potential for capital appreciation,” Robles added.

Here are some Sta. Lucia Land projects that home seekers might want to consider.

Newport at Greenwoods North in Gapan, Nueva Ecija

Located along Maharlika Highway, the 22-hectare Newport at Greenwoods North is a masterplanned community that will cater to the emerging middle class. Now on its Phase 2, homeowners can choose between bungalow and two-bedroom single-detached houses.

Located along Maharlika Highway, the 22-hectare Newport at Greenwoods North is a masterplanned community that will cater to the emerging middle class.

Beverly Place Residential and Business Estates in Mexico, Pampanga

Strategically situated at the center of Mexico, Pampanga’s manufacturing, commercial, and business zone, the 348-hectare Beverly Place is just beside SM Pampanga and near Robinsons Starmills. It is 45 minutes away from Balintawak Toll Gate, 30 minutes away from Clark Special Economic Zone and Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, and just three minutes from City of San Fernando Exit. It has a direct access through Gapan-Olongapo Road.

Enjoy the allure of country living with easy access to modern conveniences at the the 348-hectare Beverly Place in Pampanga.

Almeria Verde in Dagupan City

This 8.9-hectare property affords homeowners an idyllic suburban life—with its elegant homes, spacious lots by a river, and a scenic clubhouse surrounded by a basketball court, a swimming pool, and a playground, among other amenities.

The 8.9-hectare Almeria Verde in Dagupan City exemplifies the idyllic suburban lifestyle of a riverside community.

Acropolis North in Cabanatuan City

This 41-hectare community features metropolitan estates, a commercial complex, and a sports and country club. Another plus is the water camp with tower slides and a lazy river. It is the archetypal resort life. In the off chance that you would look for more, your home would be near the city proper and a few hours away from the urbane comforts of Manila, duty-free stores of Pampanga, sunny beaches of Zambales, and cool weather of Baguio.

The 41-hectare Acropolis North in Cabanatuan City introduces a modern metropolitan lifestyle.