Villar City promises to be Philippines' largest urban hub

A new mega-township called Villar City is being developed south of Manila. It is touted to be larger than both Makati and Bonifacio Global City combined. The project covers an area of 3,500 hectares across the cities of Muntinlupa, Bacoor, and Las Pinas, and will connect 15 towns and cities through various access points. Villar City aims to be a center for commerce and innovation. The developer, Manny Villar Jr., is the richest Filipino, with a net worth of about $18.37 billion. The project will feature green spaces, including 10 million trees, two golf courses, and parks to encourage wellness and relaxation. The area is undergoing significant redevelopment. Previously known as "Paliparan," it was infamous for being a dumping ground for crime victims. Now, it is transforming into a modern hub with high-end residential areas, shopping spots, and educational institutions such as the University of the Philippines. Villar City is designed to promote a sustainable lifestyle by integrating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. Key components include Banyan Tree Estates, a luxury residential area, and Banyan Tree Cyberpark, a business district for local and international companies. Ongoing construction is aimed at establishing important infrastructure and community facilities. Manny Villar’s journey from humble beginnings to a successful businessman is notable. He grew up assisting his mother in selling seafood in Manila’s markets. After earning degrees in business, he entered the construction industry and founded Camella Homes, which became a leading homebuilder in the country. Aside from his business success, Villar is recognized for his philanthropic efforts through the Villar Social Institute for Poverty Alleviation and Governance. His commitment to education and environmental causes reflects his desire to uplift Filipino communities. Villar City is more than a construction project; it is intended as a new vision for urban living in the Philippines. It represents progress and innovation for the future of the region.