JAIME VELASQUEZ PARK: A refreshed introduction

Last November 26, a refreshed Jaime Velasquez Park was reopened to park visitors who were welcomed with serenades from the Makati Live buskers which are scheduled to perform every Friday and Saturday at 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

The project to revitalize the park, located at Salcedo Village, was headed by Makati Central Estate Association (MACEA), together with Ayala Land, Inc., Barangay Bel-Air and the Makati LGU.

Named after the late Colonel Jaime C. Velasquez, chief executor of the Makati Master Plan, the park remains a vital landmark in the city as it continues to be a venue for wellness that encourages an individual to reconnect with the community in a landscape that offers tranquility.

Being one of the four pockets of green in MCBD, the newly improved park, featuring a wide open space, a large grassy lawn and trellised walkway, houses a children’s park, pet park, community center, barangay office, and satellite clinic with public restrooms.

Art enthusiasts will be able to enjoy Impy Pilapil’s visual artworks, one of the features of the park, and expect a bi-annual contemporary art fair called “Art in the Park”.

RADA PROMENADE: The Unveiling

Being the first phase of a new permanent outdoor dining initiative headed by MACEA and Ayala Land, Inc. and supported by the Makati LGU, the Rada Promenade has finally been introduced, set to cater an al fresco dining experience for the customers.

The launch was attended by the MACEA General Manager, Jonathan David, together with the Brgy. Captain of Brgy. San Lorenzo, Erneto Moya, MACEA Board of Governors Member, Manny Blas, Ayala Land Estates Group Marketing and Communications Head, Chrissy Roa and International Relations Department and Makati Tourism Head, Maria Concepcion M. Yabut.

Located along Rada Street in Legaspi Village, the Rada promenade is pet-friendly and hosts the Bike & Dine program of Makati. In connection with this, visitors are allowed to use their bikes or rent a bike through the Moovr app. Customers will be able to enjoy the whole dining experience, not only because of the festive decorations, but also because of the performances by the Makati Live buskers.

Wildflour, Nikkei, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Sarsa, Wicked ‘Wich are just some of the restaurants and merchants the customers will be able to choose from. Because of its strategic location which links Makati’s community parks such as Washington Sycip and Legaspi Active Parks, it further establishes the city as a walkable city.

The first phase of Rada Promenade features different sizes of outdoor innovations distributed along Rada Street.

CYCLING IS THE NEW NORM: MAKATI LAUNCHES BIKE & DINE, INITIATES MOOVR BIKE RENTALS

Aiming to accommodate and provide better lifestyle destination for the biking community, as well as, encouraging more people to consider biking as an alternative transportation option, Ayala Land, Inc. and MaCEA initiated a Bike & Dine program and bike rentals via the Moovr app on October 29 and November 4, respectively. The Bike & Dine racks were installed at the Makati Al Fresco parklets; three racks along Esteban St. in front of Planters Products building and two racks along Rada St. in front of Cy Land building. These racks allow the cyclists to dine without the need to dismount from their bikes.

Make It Makati also provided some gifts from Yardstick Coffee and Wildflour for the first 50 participating bikers during the launch.

In addition, bike rentals were also made possible. The bike rental service is currently available at 11 spots within MCBD, namely, Ayala Triangle Gardens, HV Dela Costa corner Tordesillas and corner Valero, Washington Sycip Park, Legazpi Active Park, Palm Promenade Park, Café Mentore at Palm Drive, 6750 Steel Car Park, 6750 building, Glorietta 4 Park and Ayala Center MRT Station. By downloading the Moovr app, signing up and scanning the QR code, Makatizens can start renting a bike at Php 20.00 for 15 minutes, available 24/7.

Also, the launching was attended by Sheilla Aguilar (Ayala Land Project Development Head for Makati), Chrissy Roa (Marketing Head of Ayala Land Estates), Jonathan David (MaCEA General Manager), and the Makati Bike Ambassadors: Justice Gatpayat, Jay Daligdig, Cess Trinidad, Vaneline Maniego, Dan Tronco, Jennie Mars Bansig, Timothy Manuel, Jimmy Crispo, and Christen Resulto.

LEGAZPI UNDERPASS PRESENTS COEXISTENCE

Art is always relevant. So, is nature. If the two are combined, the end result is magical. That is why this combination should be displayed in places where most people are stressed with everyday triggers. It will be a fresh sight and can act as a reset for city dwellers.

This is exactly what the Legazpi Underpass Mural is all about. Aside from giving the citizens an easier and safe passage, they will also be welcomed by a magnificent mural upon entering the underpass.

Headed by Jonathan David (MACEA General Manager), Chrissy Roa (Head of Marketing and Communication, Ayala Land Estates), Sheilla Aguilar (Project Development Head for Makati, Ayala Land Estates) and lead artists Janica Rina and Jerson Samson, Legazpi Underpass has finally launched.

The mural, created by artists Janica Rina and Jerson Samson, assisted by Pogs Samson, Eunice Vergara, Hayme, Vincent Zulaybar and Janice Samson, tells a story about Coexistence. It shows the harmonious environment between humans and nature, reminding us to value our very own flora and fauna while we still can.

Also, this is perfect to symbolize Makati because it is a place where diversity meet. This variety of people and nature contributes to the vibrance of the city and makes coexistence possible. 

Another key point to remember is that the Legazpi underpass connects the urban oasis of the city which is the Ayala Triangle Gardens and Ayala Center. The developments at Makati involving a safer and enhanced walking experience of the pedestrians through a network of underpasses and walkways has been one of the many goals of the city.

MAKATI UNDERGROUND CONDUIT NETWORK PROJECT

One of the projects of MACEA for the continuous development and improvement of the city is the installation of the underground conduit network that aims to run through the MCBD.

Following the objectives of the project which seeks to build a single race way for all the data providers operating in the district and to streamline the provisioning of telecommunications facilities within the MACEA-controlled area of the MCBD and minimize, the project is being completed day by day.

The construction of the said underground conduit network commenced on 2019 and is expected to be completed by early 2022. Despite the delays on the project because of the current situation regarding the COVID pandemic, 80% of the Valero Section has been accomplished and completed installation of 534 meters of 13-run and 54 meters of 2-run underground conduits with nine manholes and six service boxes. As for the Rufino Segment Phase 1A and 1B, 55% has already been completed, 2,358 meters of 12-run and 1,883 meters of 2-run underground conduits with 21 manholes and 43 service boxes. Whereas the Valero / San Agustin Segment and Dela Rosa Segment started their construction last November 26, 2021 and December 3, 2021, respectively, and is expected to be completed within six to twelve months.

Upon completion, the network, which will be divided into ducts with one duct assigned for the exclusive use of one company, will run through 25.1 kilometers within the area under the jurisdiction of MACEA.

MACEA ADDS SECURITY MEASURES & HELP DESKS IN MCBD

Due to the recent incidents in the Salcedo Village area, the Makati Central Estate Association immediately augmented six (6) MaCEA Security Guards, bringing a total deployment of 50 guards.

Implementation of frequent Oplan Sita and Checkpoint were also done both in Salcedo and Legazpi Village, in coordination with the Makati PNP. Additional twenty (20) Barangay tanods were appointed in Salcedo Village courtesy of Barangay Belair.

The dissemination of MaCEA Hotline (0917-111-1548) in all building security personnel for emergency and urgent matters was made available 24/7.

Moreover, a community help desk was also set on October 8, 2021, manned 24/7 by either MaCEA guards, Barangay Tanod, or PNP personnel. These help desks are equipped with first-aid kits, oxygen tanks, fire extinguishers, etc. to quickly respond in case of emergencies. They are located at Sedeno corner Leviste Streets (side Makati Sports Club) in Salcedo Village and Dela Rosa corner Rufino streets (Phil. Veterans Bank Bldg. side) in Legazpi Village.

PASEO-VILLAR UNDERPASS: The Inauguration

On October 1, 2021, MaCEA, in collaboration with Ayala Land and the Makati LGU, the much-awaited Paseo de Roxas-Villar Underpass has finally opened to serve the residents of Makati.

To acknowledge this milestone, a ceremony was spearheaded by Jonathan David (MACEA General Manager), Meean Dy (Ayala Land Estates Group Head), Mayor Abby Binay, and Mel Ignacio (Ayala Land Estates Makati Head).

It was the year 2019 when the construction of the underpass began. This is a part of the city’s revitalization plan to provide accessibility to the community and create a safe and enhanced walking experience.

The said underpass is connected to the northern portion of Ayala Triangle Gardens to Salcedo Village.

BIKE LANES: Making Makati CBD a Commuters’ Haven

MACEA, in collaboration with Ayala Land and Make It Makati initiated a trial run of the bike lanes which was completed and launched last September 7, 2020.

The installation of the bike lanes was a part of making the Makati CBD a commuter’s haven with an estimate of 760 cyclists per day who travel to Makati using bicycles, E-bikes and E-scooters. With the bike lanes being 3-meters wide, not only does it provide enough space for a large volume of cyclists but it also ensures the safety of both the cyclists and the pedestrians on the sidewalks. 

Because of the growing number of cyclists, Additional bike racks on the streets of Leviste, San Agustin, Tordesillas, Bautista and Valero Service Road II, III & IV were installed.

Meanwhile, the proposal for the “Bike Share Program” of DOTr and DPWH, in partnership with Moovr has also been raised. It was reported that one of the benefits of ridesharing is that it helps in the improvement of the user’s health as it requires physical efforts. It also increases the reach of transit, reduces congestion and improve the air quality.

In conclusion, the project on Bike lanes is being considered successful and plans for expansion are already being studied.

 

A LITTLE NEARER INTO THE FUTURE: Legazpi Carpark Building and Villar Underpass Updates

The construction of the 5-storey Legazpi Parking Building located at the district which was started last June 2019 is becoming more and more complete as the days go by. This carpark building is reported to have 603 parking slots. Now, if that isn’t exciting for vehicle owners who often visit Makati, then we don’t know what is.

To add more to the joy, the Villar Underpass is looking good,  as well. Construction is still ongoing. However, each day bunch of efforts put in by workers, the project underpass is starting to see the light of day. Soon, this will be packed with passersby, giving them a shade from the scorching sun while trying to get to a certain place by foot.

IT ALL STARTED WITH GRAVEL & STONES: Asphalting Works in Makati

With the ongoing improvements being done in Makati, the planned asphalting at Salcedo Village and Legazpi Village was already implemented.



Last April 28, 2021, the overlay works started along the portion of Sotto Street in Legazpi Village and painting was done on May 6 to 7, 2021, with the assistance of Barangay San Lorenzo.

In connection with this, along the Villar Street in Salcedo Village, the overlay works was also started last May 29 to 30, 2021, followed by painting on May 31 to June 4, 2021, with the assistance of Barangay Bel-Air.

30 FRUITFUL YEARS OF AVA

Mr. Abraham Vives Anunciacion has finally called it a day after 30 years of service in Makati Central Estate Association (MACEA). Within those years, he served as a field operation supervisor and an assistant general manager.

Mr. Anunciacion was the field operation supervisor from year 1991, August 16 until year 2006, September 15. He became the assistant general manager on 16th of September 2006 until 31st of March 2021.

One of his duties as the assistant general manager was overseeing day-to-day operations of the MaCEA managed areas. He undertook regular inspection of the area of jurisdiction in terms of compliance to the Association’s rules and regulations including its deed restrictions. He also ensured immediate action on complaints of all members and prepared correspondences. Preparing the quarterly summary of construction violations including the day-to-day computer encoding of violation date was also one of his duties. Furthermore, he would consequently coordinate implementation of corrective measures. Also, he would undertake project studies and would evaluate new innovative methods / procedures in order to further improve the operation of the Association. As for the billings for contractors, Meralco / MWC and suppliers, he would often conduct a thorough checking of the said billings.

As the former assistant general manager, he also conducted an evaluation of all the employed contractors, as well as the new contractors of the Association. He established and maintained institutional linkages and relations with the Makati City Administration including police, neighboring barangays and associations, MERALCO, MWC, and other public utility agencies and government entities.

Mr. Anunciacion exhibited the act of being flexible in work as he would also perform other duties / responsibilities that was assigned to him from time to time.

MACEA INTRODUCES A NEW FINANCE & ADMIN HEAD

With a 3-year experience in Internal and External Audit, 13 years experience in Corporate Finance and 9 years as a Finance Manager at Ayala Property Management Corporation, Ms. Jackie-Lou O. Borreta is named as MACEA’s new Finance and Admin Head.

Ms. Borreta, a graduate of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (University of the City of Manila), finished her bachelor’s degree in Accountancy as a Cum Laude of Batch 2004.

In addition to her broad experience as a results-oriented certified public accountant, she is also a company process trainer in payable and accounting system. She’s also worked as an HR partner in finance training and employee payroll and benefits requirements. Moreover, she’s worked previously at San Buenaventura CPA and Co, Pag-IBIG Fund, Market!Market! (SSECC – ALI subs), and Deustche Knowledge Services.

Kids have a special place in her heart, that’s why teaching them is one of her most favorite things to do, along with traveling. According to her, “Malasakit is a key” in order to make the company’s mission and vision a reality.

CLEAN WITH PASSION: Street Cleaning Day On Makati

The Makati Central Estate Association (MaCEA) has commenced general cleaning activities along the whole stretch of Aguirre St. and Gamboa St., Legazpi Village last May 30, 2021 at 8:00 AM until 4:00 PM.

The activities involved cleaning of the street and sidewalk pavement, curb and gutter, drainage inlets, street name signage as well as the streetlight fixtures.

The building administrators in the streets of Aguirre and Gamboa was also advised to temporarily prohibit the on-street parking of visitors, employees and tenants during the street cleaning activities.

MAKATI CITY SUBWAY

On May 24, 2021, Urban Avenue from Amorsolo Street was closed  to traffic to give way to the construction of the Makati Subway Project.

The Makati City government and Philippine Infradev Holdings Inc. sealed a joint venture agreement for the $3.5 billion Makati City Subway.


The Subway will have 10 underground stations with at least 30 entrances linked to key destinations around the city namely, Central Business District at the corner of Ayala and Sen. Gil Puyat Avenues, Circuit City, Makati City Hall, University of Makati and Ospital ng Makati. The stations will also have connections to the existing MRT Line 3, the Pasig River Ferry Service, and the under-construction Metro Manila Subway. Passenger capacity is expected to be at 700,000 daily. It is also mentioned that there will be 12 air-conditioned trains in the first year of operation with intervals of 3 to 6 minutes that will operate 18 hours everyday.

On December 12, 2018, the preparatory work, including soil testing and feasibility studies of the proposed locations for the subway line’s stations, officially began, followed by a ceremonial drilling ceremony in front of the Makati City Hall, near the site of one of the proposed stations of the subway. The signing of the memorandum of understanding between the Makati city government and a consortium consisting of Philippine Infradev and Chinese firms Greenland Holdings Group, Jiangsu Provincial Construction Group Co. Ltd., Holdings Ltd. and China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd was also held.

Furthermore, the Makati Subway will be very beneficial because the commutes will be faster and easier. And if the commutes are faster, there will be an increase in work productivity and opportunities for businesses. There will also be an increase in profits for real estate investors. And finally, there will be a reduction in air pollution.

As for the fares and ticketing of the subway, the upcoming line will use a distance-based fare structure and will be charged 20% to 25% higher than the fares of Line 1 and Line 3. A 25 % premium will bring the subway’s rate to about ₱38 for 10 stops

ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENTS: RENOVATION OF JVP

Being a part of MaCEA’s Greening Project which aims to enhance the parks, open spaces, and greenery around the Makati Central Business District, the renovation of the Jaime Velasquez Park at Salcedo Village started last June 15, 2021.

Recognizing that the said park is both highly valued and an integral part of the Salcedo Village community, the upgrade will further improve the community’s experience as it features a more current design and layout.

Furthermore, the renovation is divided into two (2) phases. The first phase will cover the renovation of the open carpark while the second phase will be the redesign of the existing park.

 

New Legazpi Parking Building Opens

After the blessing ceremony held on the morning of July 14 led by Fr. Fernando Urbano, SDB, Parish Priest of St. John Bosco Makati, The much-awaited Legazpi parking building will officially open on July 15, 2021.

Still bearing in the mind the gravity of the COVID-19 pandemic, strict compliance to the safety protocols were observed. Thus, a limited number of guests were invited namely, Ms. Arleen May S. Guevara (MACEA Board of Governor), Brgy. San Lorenzo Council headed by Mr. Ernesto A. Moya (Brgy. Captain of Brgy. San Lorenzo), Mr. Deogracias Q. San Miguel (MAPA General Manager) and the staff of MACEA.

Located at Legazpi St. cor. V.A Rufino St., Legazpi Village Makati City, the 5-storey Legazpi Parking Building with 603 slots will operate from 7:00 AM until 6:00 PM during weekdays. As for the parking rates, the first 2 hours will be Php 50.00. Then, an additional Php 20.00 will be added for the succeeding hours.

GRAVEL AND STONES: Asphalting Works at Salcedo Village

A part of the overall improvements within Makati is the planned asphalting at Salcedo Village. This project will cover the streets of V.A Rufino, Carlos Palanca, Bautista, Amorsolo, H.V. Dela Costa, the Amorsolo Street along Ayala Avenue to Dela Rosa, Tordesillas, Toledo, Jaime Velasquez, and Legazpi along Dela Rosa West to Paseo de Roxas

Included in the said project are activities of scraping, overlaying, and the restoration of the traffic marking. Asphalt scraping and overlay work will be implemented along Toledo and Jaime Velasquez Street.

Nevertheless, all the roadways will still remain passable to all vehicles, therefore, the re-routing of traffic will not be implemented.

A GOOD WAY TO PARK: The New Legazpi Car Park Building

Let’s face it, a parking lot have always been an issue anywhere especially in big cities. We have so many vehicles, yet too few of those slots. It’s a headache we are all very familiar with. The most common scenario? You have to wait at least 10 to 20 minutes until someone finally decides to leave so you can have that parking space. On the bright side, that will teach you, “patience is a virtue”, right? But, then again, not everyone has that silver-lining-kind of attitude. Aside from that, most importantly is that safety is also at risk.

So, here’s a good way to park: a 5-storey Legazpi Parking Building, with 603 parking slots, located at the district. Construction of the said building commenced last June 2019 and is expected to be completed by May 2021. To continue with the nature-friendly theme, this park-and-walk facility will feature sidewalks lined with trees. MACEA has also fit into the facility two restrooms and a terminal to occupy the ground level.

THE DONT’S: Campaign Against Illegal Parking and Counterflowing

In line with the overall improvement within Makati, campaigns against illegal parking and counterflowing have been initiated. The Sangguniang Panlungsod of the city of Makati approved the City Ordinance No. 2017-026, entitled; An Ordinance Prescribing Additional Traffic Rules And Regulations For The City of Makati, Metro Manila, Suppletory To City Ordinance No. 2003-089, Otherwise Known As The Makati Traffic Code, Subject to Existing Laws, Rules And Regulations.

No parking zone is implemented on the streets of Dela Rosa, Tordesillas, Leviste, Salcedo, Legazpi and Valero. The loading and unloading area is moved to Tordesillas Street. As for the delivery drivers, they are prohibited to park and wait on the streets marked as redzone. However, there is a designated free parking area for them, keeping in mind the allowed minutes of parking which is 15 to 30 minutes, at the streets of Valero and Dela Rosa 1 & 2. Additional traffic lights at the intersections of Kalayaan Avenue, Pablo Ocampo Street and Metropolitan Avenue Street have also been installed to improve travel times and ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians.

In conclusion, violations against the regulations of the ordinance implemented will face penalties according to the severity and type of violation.

Fines are stated below:

Counterflow: Php 2,000.00

Illegal Parking / Waiting: Php 500.00 to Php 3,000.00