Originally published by The Philippine Star

Cathay Land’s Berkeley Suites offers affordable luxury in the heart of South Forbes Golf City, Silang, Cavite. Now ready for occupancy, the mid-rise condominium is part of a booming growth hub benefiting from infrastructure improvements such as the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) and the planned extension of LRT Line 1.

A strategic location with increasing value

Positioned along the South Boulevard, Berkeley Suites is strategically located to benefit from Cavite’s rapidly developing infrastructure. Jeffrey Ng, President and CEO of Cathay Land, shares the growing potential of this area,“There’s so much development happening in Cavite right now. Property values are only going to keep rising, and those in the market for a home should consider Silang while it’s still affordable.”

With easy access to urban centers like Sta. Rosa and leisure destinations like Tagaytay, residents enjoy the convenience of city living and the fresh air and scenic views typical of Cavite’s elevated landscapes. Ng highlights this advantage, “Our residents benefit from proximity to Metro Manila and the relaxing atmosphere of Tagaytay. It’s a unique combination that truly makes South Forbes an ideal place to live.”

A vertical village with modern amenities

Berkeley Suites’ design prioritizes a community-centered approach. With 356 units, primarily 18 sqm studio and 27-34.54 sqm one-bedroom units, residents have the flexibility of combining multiple units for larger spaces. Prices start at ₱2 million for studio units and ₱4 million for one-bedroom units, making it an affordable yet luxurious choice. Ng elaborates, “In Metro Manila, ₱2-4 million may not be enough to buy a decent home, but for the same price, you can own a place in South Forbes Golf City with high-quality amenities.”

The development is packed with shared spaces designed to foster a sense of community. “Berkeley Suites is not your ordinary condo. We designed it with shared spaces and amenities like our Aquatrium pool, pocket gardens on every floor, and the Study Lounge to foster community and convenience,” Ng emphasizes. The U-shaped design allows for better airflow and green spaces, enhancing the overall living experience.

For those looking to entertain, the TV room and function hall offer the perfect setting, while the pocket gardens provide quiet retreats. These features make Berkeley Suites an appealing option for those who value both community and personal space.

Accessible financing through Pag-IBIG

A key feature of Berkeley Suites is its accreditation with Pag-IBIG, making homeownership more accessible to Filipinos. With low-interest rates and flexible payment terms, buyers can secure a home with minimal down payment. “Pag-IBIG is the largest source of home financing in the country,” Ng explains. “This partnership allows us to offer our units with attractive borrowing rates, ensuring that more Filipinos can afford a quality home in South Forbes.”

This partnership opens the doors for a wider range of buyers, providing them the opportunity to invest in an affordable luxury home without the financial burden typically associated with condominium living.

Sustainable living in a 15-minute city

Berkeley Suites is part of South Forbes Golf City’s broader vision of a “15-minute city,” where all daily essentials—education, healthcare, retail, and recreation—are within a short distance. “We’ve designed South Forbes as a green and sustainable community where residents don’t need to drive far for their needs,” says Ng.

Within the estate, residents have access to educational institutions, retail centers, and recreational facilities like the South Forbes Golf Club, a par-67, 18-hole course designed for golf enthusiasts. This concept promotes sustainable living by encouraging walking and biking, reducing residents’ carbon footprint. “Since multiple establishments are a stone’s throw away from Berkeley Suites, our clients can walk or ride their bike to nearby establishments as an alternative to driving,” Ng adds, highlighting the community’s focus on green living.

A future-ready investment

With Cavite’s ongoing infrastructure developments and the accessibility of Pag-IBIG financing, Berkeley Suites stands as a compelling opportunity that combines luxury with affordability. Jeffrey Ng, President and CEO of Cathay Land, highlights this advantage, “Pag-IBIG allows borrowers to loan up to ₱6 million at very attractive rates, making it easier for our clients to secure a home with minimal down payment.” This financing option opens doors for a diverse range of buyers—from seasoned investors to young professionals and families seeking their first home.

But Berkeley Suites offers more than just a residence—it offers an elevated lifestyle. Its strategic location within the vibrant South Forbes Golf City, coupled with its community-oriented design, ensures that residents enjoy the best of both worlds—urban accessibility and the serene comforts of the South.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Cathay Land remains optimistic about the future of Metro South. With new projects planned, the company is poised to lead the transformation of Cavite into a premier residential destination. “We’re excited to continue developing in this region and meeting the growing demand for quality homes,” adds Ng.

For those seeking a long-term investment in a rapidly developing region, Berkeley Suites presents the ideal choice—an accessible, sustainable, and luxurious home within reach. To learn more, visit www.southforbes.com.