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Tag: Food Basket of Cavite

  • Amadeo: The Hidden Gem of Philippine Coffee Culture

    “Agriculture is our wisest pursuit, because it will in the end contribute most to real wealth, good morals, and happiness.”

    –  Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President of the Unites States of America

    By Realttorney®

    The new and much-improved facade of the Amadeo Municipal Hall

    Amadeo is part of the third Growth Area, under the Cavite Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan 2021 – 2030, known as Metro Tagaytay or the Tourism Haven and Food Basket of the Province. This third Growth Area is composed of seven other municipalities and one city, which we will feature in more articles in the future. Indang, Cavite was the first one featured several days ago.

    Why write about Amadeo, Cavite second? Everyone needs to know that Amadeo has ecological and environmental importance for the Province of Cavite and the National Capital Region, as well.

    There are six major river systems in Cavite namely, Maragondon, Labac-Alemang, Timalan, Cañas, San Juan, and Imus River. These river systems provide a plethora of ecological functions and services that are critical to both the natural environment and human populations.

    “The Cañas River Watershed runs from South to North before draining to Manila Bay. The headwaters of Cañas River Watershed are found in Tagaytay. The river network passes through the municipalities of Indang and Amadeo. It continues down to Trece Martirez, General Trias, and Tanza. It exits at the municipality of Rosario, Cavite.”[1]

    From a natural perspective, the rivers of upland Cavite and their surrounding habitats are home to a diverse array of plants (catmon, banaba, Ylang-Ylang, and carabao mango trees) and animals, many of which are endemic to the Southern Tagalog region and play important ecological roles. The Cañas River system also serves as a corridor for wildlife movement and migration, contributing to the resilience and diversity of ecosystems in the Province.

    On a human level, the Cañas River system provides invaluable services such as access to water for drinking, irrigation, and industrial use. Many human settlements and cities in Cavite rely on the six major river systems as a primary source of water, making their conservation and management crucial for sustained human development.

    Aside from these facts, as a real estate service practitioner, I need to inform you of the myriad of opportunities that are aplenty in this town neighboring the eastern side of Indang, Cavite.

    Here are some interesting facts you need to know about the upland town of Amadeo, Cavite:

    Source: https://www.crowdsourcedexplorer.com/amadeo-cavite-philippines/

    The old facade of the Municipal Hall of Amadeo, Cavite. Source: https://www.crowdsourcedexplorer.com/amadeo-cavite-philippines/

    1. Amadeo was once known as Masilaw, meaning “glaring” in Tagalog, because of the bright red flowers of the Dapdap trees (a.k.a. Erythrina variegata) that grew in the area. When in bloom, the trees bore bright red flowers producing a dazzling red glare from afar. In Tagalog, the term, glaring is “nakakasilaw”. After the years passed, the word was shortened and the barrio got its name “Masilaw”.

    2. Amadeo (a.k.a. Masilaw) was then a part of Silang (just like Indang), and its inhabitants had to go to Poblacion for registration, baptismal rites, matrimonial ceremonies, and even funeral services. At that time, public transportation was scarce and travel was difficult. A move initiated by the leaders of the barrios namely Leoncio Ramos, Geronimo Bayot, and Andres Villanueva succeeded in making Masilaw a town independent from Silang in 1872.

    3. Amadeo was founded on July 15, 1872, by Governor General Rafael Izquierdo y Gutiérrez, and named after King Amadeo I of Spain. For 21 years, Amadeo was recognized as a town, even by the Revolutionary Government under General Emilio Aguinaldo.

    In fact, the revolutionists gave it the Tagalog Name “Maypag-ibig” (With Love), in line with the revolutionary policy of giving native names to towns having alien names to erase every vestige of the country’s colonial past. However, on October 15, 1903, it was returned to Silang under Act No. 947, as the Provincial Executive, displeased with the way Amadeo was governed, reverted it as a district under Silang, Cavite.

    The people resented this decision. Once again, its leaders took the cudgels of working for the separation of Amadeo from Silang. Finally, in 1915, during the administration of Governor Antero S. Soriano, Amadeo regained its independence. Geronimo Bayot became the first municipal president.[2]

    4. Amadeo has a population of 41,901 people as of the 2020 census, with a density of 1,100 inhabitants per square kilometer or 2,800 inhabitants per square mile. This makes it the least populous municipality in the Province of Cavite.

    5. Finally, Amadeo is the Coffee Capital of the Philippines, producing the largest amount of coffee in the province of Cavite. It has a land area of 47.90 square kilometers devoted to coffee farming. It may not be the biggest coffee-producing municipality in the country, but it sure is the most passionate when it comes to this most sought-after beverage in the daily lives of Filipinos.

    Amadeo hosts the annual Pahimis Festival, a Thanksgiving celebration for the bountiful harvest of coffee. The festival features cultural shows, trade fairs, coffee tastings, and a street parade. As such, it has emerged as a hidden gem in the country’s vibrant coffee culture.

    Despite being overshadowed by more popular destinations for coffee production and consumption, such as Batangas and Benguet, Amadeo has steadily gained recognition for its unique contribution to the Philippine coffee landscape, which is characterized by its rich historical roots, geographical advantages, variety, and quality of coffee beans, and the role of local stakeholders in fostering this burgeoning industry.

    Historical Context. Coffee cultivation in the Philippines dates back to the Spanish colonial era when the archipelago was introduced to coffee by Spanish friars in the late 17th century. Over time, coffee farming spread across various regions, each contributing distinct flavors and characteristics to Philippine coffee culture.

    Amadeo’s coffee industry dates back to the 19th century when it was introduced by Spanish colonizers. However, the Province of Batangas gained early prominence due to the fertile volcanic soil. But, over the years, Amadeo’s contribution to the Philippine coffee landscape can be attributed to several factors.

    Geographical Advantage. The town’s geographical location plays a crucial role in its emergence as a coffee hub. Situated in the highlands of Cavite, Amadeo benefits from a unique microclimate that is conducive to coffee cultivation.

    The municipality’s elevation, combined with its well-drained soil and moderate temperatures, creates an ideal environment for growing coffee beans with rich flavors and aromas. These natural advantages have attracted coffee enthusiasts and farmers alike, leading to the re-establishment of numerous coffee plantations and processing facilities in the area.

    Variety and Quality. One of the distinguishing features of Amadeo’s coffee culture is the variety and quality of beans produced. The municipality is known for cultivating a diverse range of coffee varieties, including Arabica, Robusta, and Excelsa. Each variety offers a unique taste profile, from the fruity and floral notes of Arabica to the bold and earthy flavors of Robusta.

    Furthermore, local farmers in Amadeo have adopted sustainable farming practices, such as organic farming and shade-grown cultivation, to enhance the quality and sustainability of their crops. This commitment to quality has garnered attention from coffee aficionados and industry experts, solidifying Amadeo’s reputation as a producer of premium coffee beans or specialty coffee production.

    Community Engagement. The growth of Amadeo’s coffee industry is not solely attributable to its geographical and agricultural attributes; community engagement has also played a crucial role. Local stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community-based cooperatives, have been instrumental in promoting coffee farming and entrepreneurship in the municipality.

    Initiatives such as training programs, financial support, and market access have empowered local farmers to improve their practices and expand their businesses. Additionally, the annual celebration of the Pahimis Festival and other tourism initiatives have drawn attention to Amadeo’s coffee culture, attracting visitors, entrepreneurs, and real estate investors alike.

    As Amadeo continues to gain recognition in the Philippine coffee scene, the municipality stands at a pivotal juncture with promising prospects for future growth. With increasing demand for specialty coffee both domestically and internationally, Amadeo has the opportunity to position itself as a leading producer of premium coffee beans in the Philippines.

    However, this growth must be balanced with sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of the local coffee industry. By leveraging its historical legacy, geographical advantages, and community engagement, Amadeo has the potential to emerge as a prominent player in the global coffee market.

    In conclusion, Amadeo, Cavite, represents a hidden gem in Philippine coffee culture, characterized by its rich historical roots, geographical advantages, and community-driven initiatives. As a producer of premium coffee beans with diverse flavors and high quality, Amadeo has carved a niche for itself in the competitive landscape of Philippine coffee production.

    Moving forward, strategic investments in sustainable farming practices, infrastructure development, and market expansion are essential to unlocking the municipality’s full potential. By doing so, Amadeo can continue to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Philippine coffee culture while providing economic opportunities for its local residents.

    Farm lot subdivisions are perfect real estate projects in Amadeo. Digital nomads, Createrpreneurs, and other professionals who are part of the Gig Economy are welcome in this 4th class municipality, whether as serious hi-tech coffee farmers, weekend farm enthusiasts, or simple nature lovers.

    Be a part of the growth of Amadeo, and its commitment to producing high-quality coffee, locally and internationally. The opening of the East-West Lateral Road and the Silang West Interchange of the Cavite Laguna Expressway (CALAX) bodes well for the appreciation of real properties, not only in Amadeo but also in the entire Metro Tagaytay Area.

    Finally, ask me about the bargains to be had for the purchase of real properties in Amadeo in 2024.

    ——-

    Atty. Jojo is a real estate attorney, an estate planning attorney, a licensed real estate broker, and a PRC-accredited Lecturer/Speaker for Training Programs in Real Estate. He is committed to helping new and veteran real estate service practitioners be well-informed of the latest laws, rules, regulations, and information relevant to the real estate service sector.

    [1]Weenjel P. Cabral and Jhon Laurence B. Herrera, “Delineation of Cañas River Watershed in Cavite, Philippines Using Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing With Field Validation.” Undergraduate Thesis Submitted to the Faculty of Agriculture, Food, Environment, and Natural Resources, Cavite State University, Indang, Cavite, April 2016.

    [2] See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amadeo,_Cavite

  • Top 7 Reasons Why Metro Tagaytay is the Ultimate Haven for Gig Economy Professionals in CALABARZON

    “Metro Tagaytay is an investment in lifestyle and future prosperity, along with an unparalleled quality of life.”

    – Atty. Ernesto C. Perez II, Real Estate Attorney

    By Realttorney®

    This article is not about the City of Tagaytay. It will be mentioned often as it is the Summer Capital of the CALABARZON Region. But it will not be the focus of this essay.

    According to the Cavite Enhanced Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan 2021 – 2030, “the areas of Tagaytay, a portion of Silang, Alfonso, Mendez, Amadeo, Indang, Ternate, Maragondon and Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo comprises the third Growth Area known as Metro Tagaytay or the Tourism Haven and Food Basket of the Province. These are the top food producers in the province and sit some of the province’s scenic and tourism spots.”[1]

    Of course, the most famous local government unit (LGU) in this cluster is Tagaytay City. Being approximately 56 kilometers south of the National Capital Region (NCR), some consider Tagaytay City the next best thing to Baguio for local and foreign tourists, who want to experience a cooler climate and escape the concrete jungle of NCR.

    But, the Metro Tagaytay Area is more than just the City of Character. As the third Growth Area in the Framework Plan of Cavite, LGUs in this cluster “have an abundance of lands for agricultural purposes and settlements expansion without undermining the need to preserve its functional role as the province’s top food producing areas.”

    The Metro Tagaytay Area’s strategic location, pleasant climate, and the government’s commitment to infrastructure development as key factors driving its real estate market. These factors not only enhance the quality of life but also contribute to the long-term attractiveness of Metro Tagaytay as an investment destination.

    The Metro Tagaytay Area is not a retirees’ haven. I would argue that it would be a haven for the young professionals in the Gig economy. This Gig Economy in the Philippines has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by technological advancements, changing work preferences, and economic dynamics.

    Young professionals, typically aged between 20 to 40 years, constitute a substantial segment of this burgeoning workforce. Engaged in various freelance, contract-based, or project-oriented roles, these individuals leverage digital platforms and specialized skills to offer services across diverse sectors such as technology, finance, marketing, and creative arts.

    But we are not talking about digital nomads here. We are discussing those young professionals who have a specialized skill set and embrace the autonomy to choose projects, set their schedules, and work remotely, aligning with their lifestyle preferences and career aspirations.

    We are talking about young entrepreneurs who command higher pay rates and have diversified income streams, and personal brands to leverage on. But at the same time, they effectively collaborate with their clients and manage their workflow efficiently.

    A study by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) highlighted that the Philippines has one of the highest rates of freelancers in Southeast Asia, with the Gig Economy playing a pivotal role in enhancing economic resilience and fostering innovation. In an International Labour Organisation (ILO) study on online freelance workers in the Philippines, female online freelancers cited the need to take care of young children as a key reason why they chose such work.

    According to a report by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the Gross Value Added generated by the information and communication services sector, which encompasses a significant portion of the Gig Economy, contributed approximately PhP 689.22 billion to the country’s GDP in 2022. This contribution underscores the economic significance of the Gig Economy in driving growth and employment opportunities.

    Hence, these young professionals in the Gig Economy have the financial capacity to afford real property in the Metro Tagaytay Area, where the lifestyle is laid-back and internet connection is relatively reliable. Aside from these factors, here are the top 7 reasons why:

    1. The excellent climate. Except for Ternate and the non-mountainous areas of Maragondon, Metro Tagaytay is blessed with relatively low temperatures, normally 1 to 2 degrees lower than the temperature in the National Capital Region, and abundant rainfall. Despite the temperatures in the Metro Tagaytay area reaching the mid-30, especially during May and June, the entire area experiences cooler temperatures at nighttime until the break of dawn during summertime.

    The majority of the LGUs belonging to the cluster are located 230 to 600 meters above sea level. This is the major reason for the cool and invigorating climate. As such, these young professionals will often have lower electricity bills during summer compared to those in the National Capital Region.

    2. The fresh air. The majority of the land area of the Metro Tagaytay Area is still planted with forest and fruit trees, especially in the Municipalities of Indang, Alfonso, Amadeo, Mendez, and General Emilio Aguinaldo. No thick smog envelopes the area during the early mornings unlike in Metro Manila. Read here what my favorite business columnist Boo Chanco wrote about how “Metro Manila is getting uninhabitable” way back in 2014.

    Imagine nurturing one’s baby and toddlers in an environment where smog and vehicle exhaust is not prevalent or widespread. Imagine also waking up with the sounds of different birds chirping and peeking from the bedroom window.

    3. The low prices of basic agricultural products. The member LGUs of the cluster are the top food producers of the Province of Cavite. Hence, the residents benefit from this. Costs of basic commodities – fruits, vegetables, meats, and other agricultural products – are relatively cheap in the Metro Tagaytay area. For example, the public market of Indang is the source of cheap but fresh agricultural produce sold to consumers.

    4. Healthcare Excellence. Metro Tagaytay boasts a commendable healthcare infrastructure that resonates with the needs of young professionals in the Gig Economy. The presence of state-of-the-art hospitals, specialized clinics, and healthcare centers ensures accessibility to quality medical services. Tagaytay Medical Center is a private hospital located beside the Fora Mall of Filinvest along Aguinaldo Highway. It has a 50 to 100 in-patient bed capacity with laboratory and diagnostic services.

    Meanwhile, in Alfonso, Cavite there is the De La Salle Dr. Rodolfo Poblete Memorial Hospital in Brgy. Poblacion I. However, the newest hospital in the Metro Tagaytay Area is Mendez Specialists Medical Center along Tagaytay-Mendez Road. It is a 4-story state-of-the-art healthcare facility that can service the residents of Alfonso, Indang, and Tagaytay City.

    Finally, M.V. Santiago Medical and Diagnostic Center Indang is a multi-specialty clinic located in Poblacion 3, Indang, Cavite that caters to the residents of Indang, my hometown. However, in about 2 years, a government tertiary hospital will rise inside the main campus of the Cavite State University in Brgy. Bancod, Indang.

    5. Educational Opportunities. For young professionals considering educational prospects for their families or personal advancement, Metro Tagaytay presents a myriad of options. The area is home to reputable educational institutions, including the main campus of the Cavite State University (Don Severino Delas Alas Campus), and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines along the Luksuhin-Mangas Road in Alfonso, Cavite.

    The Municipality of Silang boasts the most number of tertiary education institutions, namely, Far Easter University – Silang Campus, Adventist University of the Philippines, Rogationist College, and the Cavite State University – Silang Campus.

    6. Stress-free living. Most of the people living in the Metro Tagaytay area are laid back. But it doesn’t mean that they don’t work hard. It’s a daily experience living close to Nature. Chirping birds wake you up in the morning along with refreshing and cool air. How can you be stressed when you have a low cost of electricity and a low cost of basic produce?

    Moreover, the Metro Tagaytay area consistently records low crime rates compared to the neighboring municipalities. The area ensures a safe living environment due to its well-established network of law enforcement agencies and community watch programs. Hence, Metro Tagaytay is perfect for those who want to fully embrace the laptop lifestyle – people who make a living online (virtual assistants and online entrepreneurs).

    It is a joy driving around the Metro Tagaytay area. Of course, the presence of slow-moving tricycles as well as dogs and chickens suddenly crossing the road are sources of minor frustrations. There is hardly any traffic during weekdays. Monstrous traffic jams occur only in Tagaytay City and Silang starting Fridays up to the late afternoon of Sundays and during long holidays.

    7. Finally, the prices of real properties are still competitive compared to other areas in the CALABARZON Region. Metro Tagaytay’s real estate market presents a golden opportunity for young professionals in the Gig Economy to secure relatively affordable and promising investments. Land values in the Metro Tagaytay Area are still competitive compared to other cities and municipalities in the Province of Cavite.

    The only exception here is the City of Tagaytay, where land values are about 30% to 60% higher compared to the other Metro Tagaytay municipalities. Of course, the exception to this is the City of Tagaytay. But there are still bargains to be had in the area of Metro Tagaytay and in Tagaytay City itself.

    Personally, I project a sustained growth in property values in the Metro Tagaytay Area, driven by factors such as infrastructure development (the opening of the Silang West Interchange of CALAX, completion of East-West Lateral Road, and the construction of CTBEX), increased urbanization, and the region’s growing popularity as a farm lot development hub. With the Gig Economy’s flexibility, young professionals can leverage their property as an investment, either through rental income or capital appreciation.

    As a permanent resident of Metro Tagaytay for the last 16 years, I have seen the area’s growth and development at a comfortable pace. Major developers have entered the Metro Tagaytay market. However, like all real estate markets, there are challenges and negative factors to consider. Hence, these developers are cautiously optimistic about this market in general.

    It is only a matter of time before young professionals of the Gig Economy see the potential of the entirety of Metro Tagaytay and invest accordingly. Invest now while bargains are still prevalent. Various types of real estate projects will cater to the needs of these young professionals.

    A note of caution though. Please consult a licensed real estate broker before purchasing real property. And, if you will purchase a house and lot or a farm lot make sure that there is a License to Sell issued by the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) and that the real estate project is registered with the DHSUD, as well.

    Invest wisely. Invest safely.

    ——-

    Atty. Jojo is a real estate attorney, an estate planning attorney, a licensed real estate broker, and a PRC-accredited Lecturer/ Speaker for Training Programs in Real Estate. He is committed to helping new and veteran real estate service practitioners be well-informed of the latest laws, rules, regulations, and information relevant to the real estate service sector.

    [1] See Page 27 of the Cavite Enhanced Provincial Development and Physical Framework Plan 2021 – 2030. But, as an observation, I would like to think that the drafters of the current Framework Plan inadvertently failed to mention the Municipality of Magallanes, as another component of Metro Tagaytay.