To honor the rich heritage and vast opportunities of Chinatown, Anchor Land builds landmark projects unrivaled in luxury, accessibility, security, and respect for Filipino-Chinese tradition.
For the last decade, the story of Anchor Land has been one of building impressive structures around convenient neighborhoods while being shaped by the tenets of excellence and innovation. Its consistency in doing that has earned it a reputation as one of the country’s leading real estate developers. Yet, there are other parts of that story that are worth giving more than passing reference: Anchor Land’s role in the revitalization of Chinatown. Here is how the luxury property brand helped transform one of Manila’s historical and cultural jewels into an enclave of modernity, a bastion of opportunity, a haven of cosmopolitanism, and a place of vibrant living.
The world has plenty of Chinatowns, an indisputable sign of the ability of the Chinese to take root in any place. They were able to adapt to a multitude of circumstances while building better lives for themselves and being valuable members of their new communities. Here in the country, one of the most significant Chinatowns is Binondo. Established in 1594 when the Spanish government relocated Chinese tradesmen to this section of Manila, it is the world’s oldest Chinatown.
Binondo eventually became a leader in trade and other commercial activities all throughout the Spanish, American, and Japanese occupations. Such prominence only increased in the establishment of the independent Philippine republic. Since then, Binondo—the heart of which is Ongpin—is seen all over the nation as a unique fusion of rich cultures and economic opportunities. Thus, it has long since become an attractive place to live, work, study and invest. Therefore, demand for real estate in the district has always been high and has only intensified over the recent years.
One of the earliest to have understood the unique appeal of the place was Anchor Land. Said company president Elizabeth Ventura, “We knew that it was only a matter of time that Binondo would become not just a rival but a viable alternative to other business districts such as Makati and Ortigas. This is why we began to develop projects in the area as early as 2004. That is one of the best decisions Anchor Land has made. Nowadays, Binondo is a place for premier business, commercial, financial, cultural, and educational opportunities, among others.”
Having brought modern living to Binondo, Anchor Land has five completed luxury condominiums in the area, and three still in the works. A drive around Binondo will reveal many Anchor Land developments, including high-end residences and commercial spaces in the most desired spots. One example is Lee Tower, a 33-storey residential building and Anchor Land’s first-ever Chinatown project. When it was built, it was not just an innovation in terms of luxury, accessibility and security. It signified Anchor Land’s understanding of the needs of the Chinese community: a place to work and live within an environment where the challenges of cultural differences and language barrier are minimized.
A game changer in the property scene, Anchor Land is also responsible for creating iconic landmarks in Binondo, one of which is the Anchor Skysuites. The 56-storey luxurious condominium is the tallest structure in Manila, and in all the Chinatowns in the world.
The 63-storey luxurious residential property, Anchor Grandsuites, will surpass Anchor Skysuites’ record as the tallest structure not only in Manila, but in all Chinatowns in the world. The property is the first residential condominium to provide modern and stylish amenities at the penthouse, which include a his-and-hers health club, a fitness center, and a clubhouse with the spectacular view of Manila’s skyline to completing the grand experience.
Another prime example of Anchor Land’s innovativeness is it has unique two-loft units with their own garden, the biggest units in Binondo, and first-class amenities. Another notable development is Wharton Parksuites, a 39-story residential tower geared towards families with school-aged children. Its kid-friendly amenities include a function hall, chess corners, and fitness centers. It also has easy access to and from Binondo’s best schools, such as Chiang Kai Shek College and Hope Christian School. These are, of course, just a few of Anchor Land’s impressive developments in the area.
As mentioned, Anchor Land has many projects lined up in the area to continue the impressive foundation it has made. The company is well aware that Binondo’s best days are still ahead; its future is undeniably a steady climb towards greater economic possibilities, richer cultural integration, and more luxurious and secure living, making it one of Manila’s most sparkling gems.
Main photo via Depositphotos
