Manny Villar’s southern ‘megalopolis’ gaining ground

Real estate mogul Manny Villar is launching the next phase of his self-named, 3,500-hectare (ha) “city” to include more facilities, including an arena and a “prestigious university.”

In a statement on Tuesday, the former lawmaker said they were firming up plans to build two golf courses, a church, events arena, university and an integrated entertainment complex in Villar City, which spans 15 towns and cities in Metro Manila and Cavite province.

READ: Villar, 15 other PH tycoons land on Forbes’ 2024 billionaires list

“These components will be spread throughout Villar City to cater to the evolving needs not only of today’s market but also those of the next generation of homeowners,” Villar said in a statement, adding that they would also build more roads to further cut travel time across Cavite and Metro Manila.

Villar likewise hinted at an upcoming partnership with a “renowned hospital.”

At present, nearly 900 ha have been “activated” in Villar City, which is being developed by Vista Land and Lifescapes.

The group launched the “megalopolis” last year, along with the 10-kilometer, 10-lane Villar Avenue connecting Las Piñas to Bacoor and Dasmariñas City in Cavite.

Prime Asset Ventures Inc., the Villars’ power and infrastructure arm, also acquired the 4-km Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway for P3.8 billion.

Also within Villar City is 119-ha residential project Forresta, which is branded as a “city in the forest.”

Once completed, Villar City is said to offer a modern commercial business district, university town and “premier lifestyle hub.” —Meg J. Adonis INQ