Makati City Guide

Chapter 3: Working in Makati

Business Districts

Makati is home to several prominent business districts, each offering unique opportunities and amenities:

Central Business District (CBD)

• The heart of Makati’s financial district
• Home to numerous multinational corporations, banks, and financial institutions
• Features iconic skyscrapers such as Ayala Triangle One and Two, and RCBC Plaza
• Offers a wide range of office spaces, from small suites to large corporate headquarters

Rockwell Center

• A thriving business and commercial district known for its modern architecture and upscale amenities
• Houses a mix of offices, retail spaces, and residential buildings
• Popular among professionals and entrepreneurs seeking a more relaxed and stylish work environment

Salcedo Village

• A growing business district with a focus on technology and innovation
• Home to several start-ups and technology companies
• Offers a more affordable option for office spaces compared to the CBD

Legaspi Village

• A mixed-use district with a mix of residential and commercial properties
• A popular choice for small businesses and entrepreneurs
• Offers a more relaxed and suburban atmosphere compared to the CBD

Major Companies and Industries

Makati is a hub for a wide range of industries, including:

• Finance and Banking: Home to major banks, investment firms, and insurance companies
• Information Technology: A growing hub for IT companies and start-ups
• Business Process Outsourcing (BPO): A major player in the global BPO industry
• Real Estate: A thriving real estate market with numerous property developers and investors
• Professional Services: Accounting, law, consulting, and other professional services firms

Job Opportunities and Career Prospects

Makati offers a diverse range of job opportunities, catering to professionals from various fields. The city’s strong economy and vibrant business environment make it an attractive destination for career-oriented individuals.

Key sectors with high demand for talent include:

• Finance and Banking
• Information Technology
• Business Process Outsourcing
• Real Estate
• Professional Services

Office Spaces and Commercial Properties

Makati offers a wide range of office spaces and commercial properties to suit the needs of businesses of all sizes. From small suites to large corporate headquarters, there are plenty of options available.

Factors to consider when choosing an office space:

• Location: Consider the proximity to transportation, amenities, and other businesses.
• Size: Choose a space that is appropriate for your team and future growth.
• Amenities: Look for buildings with modern amenities such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and parking facilities.
• Lease Terms: Negotiate favorable lease terms, including rent, term length, and renewal options.

Spire Group’s Expertise in Commercial Real Estate

Spire Group is a leading real estate brokerage firm with extensive experience in commercial real estate in Makati. Our team of experts can assist you in finding the ideal office space or commercial property to meet your business needs. We offer comprehensive services, including:

• Property Search: Identifying suitable properties based on your specific requirements
• Negotiations: Representing your interests in lease negotiations
• Due Diligence: Conducting thorough due diligence to ensure a sound investment
• Property Management: Providing ongoing property management services

By partnering with Spire Group, you can benefit from our deep knowledge of the Makati market and our commitment to delivering exceptional service.

Chapter 4: Shopping and Entertainment

Shopping Malls

Makati is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of shopping malls to cater to diverse tastes and budgets. Here are some of the most popular options:

Ayala Center

• One of the largest and most prestigious shopping malls in the Philippines
• Features a mix of high-end luxury brands, department stores, and specialty shops
• Houses Ayala Museum, Greenbelt Park, and several dining options

Greenbelt

• A collection of interconnected malls offering a variety of shopping and dining experiences
• Known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and outdoor spaces
• Features Greenbelt Park, a popular destination for relaxation and people-watching

Power Plant Mall

• A smaller, more boutique-focused mall with a trendy atmosphere
• Known for its unique selection of fashion brands, specialty stores, and restaurants
• Features a rooftop bar with panoramic city views

SM Makati

• A large-scale mall offering a wide range of stores, from budget-friendly options to international brands
• Includes a cinema, department store, and food court

Nightlife

Makati’s nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, with something to offer everyone. From trendy bars and clubs to rooftop lounges and live music venues, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Popular Entertainment Districts:

• Poblacion: A bohemian neighborhood with a growing nightlife scene, featuring a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
• Rockwell Center: A trendy district with upscale bars, clubs, and rooftop lounges.
• Ayala Center: Offers a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues, catering to a diverse crowd.

Recreational Activities

Makati offers a variety of recreational activities for residents and visitors. Here are some popular options:

Parks and Gardens:

• Ayala Triangle Gardens: A popular urban park with landscaped gardens, fountains, and outdoor events.
• Legazpi Active Park: A spacious park perfect for jogging, biking, and outdoor activities.
• Bonifacio Global City Park: A large park with green spaces, playgrounds, and recreational facilities.

Sports Facilities and Fitness Centers:

• SM Mall of Asia Arena: A world-class sports and entertainment venue.
• Century Park Hotel: Offers a swimming pool, gym, and spa facilities.
• Private fitness centers and gyms: Many residential buildings and commercial complexes have their own fitness centers.

Cultural Events and Festivals:

• Ayala Triangle Music Festival: A popular annual music festival featuring local and international artists.
• Jazz and Blues Festival: A celebration of jazz and blues music, featuring performances by renowned musicians.
• Art Fairs and Exhibitions: Makati hosts various art fairs and exhibitions throughout the year.

Additional Activities:

• Shopping: Explore the city’s numerous shopping malls and markets.
• Dining: Enjoy a wide variety of cuisines at Makati’s restaurants and food stalls.
• Sightseeing: Visit historical landmarks, museums, and cultural attractions.
• People-watching: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and diverse crowd in Makati’s streets and public spaces.

Chapter 5: Food and Dining

Cuisine

Makati offers a diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of cuisines to satisfy every palate. From traditional Filipino dishes to international gourmet fare, there’s something to suit every taste.

Filipino Cuisine

• Must-try dishes: Adobo, sinigang, lechon, lumpia, and pancit
• Popular Filipino restaurants: Ilustrado, Purple Yam, Café Ilustrado

International Cuisines

• Japanese: Mendokoro Ramenba, Oyakodon
• Korean: Bibing Nengs, Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong
• Chinese: Chinatown Binondo, Crystal Jade
• Italian: Cibo, Osteria Romana
• French: Le Souffle, La Trappe

Fusion Cuisine

• Filipino-Spanish: Café del Rio
• Filipino-American: The Fat Cow
• Filipino-Japanese: Teriyaki Boy

Food Markets

Makati is home to several vibrant food markets where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food.

• Salcedo Market: A popular weekend market offering a wide variety of food stalls, artisanal products, and live music.
• Legazpi Market: A traditional wet market with a wide selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and meat.
• Makati Night Market: A night market with a variety of food stalls and street vendors.

Coffee Shops and Cafés

Makati is a coffee lover’s paradise, with numerous coffee shops and cafés offering a variety of brews and pastries.

• Starbucks: A popular international chain with multiple locations in Makati.
• Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: Another popular chain offering a wide selection of coffee drinks and pastries.
• Third Wave Coffee Shops: For a more artisanal coffee experience, check out local coffee shops like Toby’s Estate,Commune, and The Wholesome Table.

Chapter 6: Transportation

Public Transportation

Makati is well-connected to other parts of Metro Manila by various public transportation options:

Metro Rail Transit (MRT)

• The MRT-3 line serves Makati, with stations at Ayala and Buendia.
• Offers a convenient and affordable way to travel within Metro Manila.
• Fares vary depending on the distance traveled.

Light Rail Transit (LRT)

• The LRT-1 line has stations at Ayala and Buendia, providing access to other parts of Metro Manila.
• Fares vary depending on the distance traveled.

Buses

• Numerous bus routes pass through Makati, connecting it to other cities and municipalities.
• Fares vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of bus.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available in Makati, providing convenient and door-to-door transportation.

• Taxis: Flag-down rates and additional charges may apply.
• Ride-Sharing: Popular apps like Grab and Uber offer convenient and affordable transportation options.
• Estimated Fares: Fares vary depending on the distance traveled and traffic conditions.

Parking

Parking can be a challenge in Makati, especially during peak hours. Public parking garages are available in shopping malls, office buildings, and other commercial areas. Valet parking is also available at some establishments.

Tips for Parking:

• Plan ahead: Check for available parking spaces before arriving at your destination.
• Consider alternative transportation: Use public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
• Be aware of parking restrictions: Some areas may have limited parking or restrictions during certain times.

Chapter 7: Expat Life in Makati

Visa Requirements

Expatriates planning to live and work in Makati need to obtain the appropriate visa and work permit. The specific requirements may vary depending on nationality and the nature of employment.

Common Visa Types:

• 9(a) Visa: Issued for employment purposes, typically for those working for a Philippine company.
• 9(b) Visa: Issued for investors and business owners.
• 13(a) Visa: Issued for individuals engaged in non-gainful activities, such as retirees or dependents.

Procedures for Obtaining Visas and Work Permits:

• Submit Application: Submit the required application forms, documents, and fees to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
• Interview: Attend an interview at the Philippine Embassy or Consulate.
• Approval and Issuance: If approved, the visa will be issued and stamped in your passport.
• Work Permit: Once in the Philippines, obtain a work permit from the Bureau of Immigration.

Cost of Living for Expats

Makati can be a relatively expensive city to live in, especially compared to other parts of the Philippines. However, the cost of living can vary depending on lifestyle choices and housing preferences.

Factors Affecting Cost of Living:

• Housing: Rental prices for apartments and condominiums can be high, especially in prime locations.
• Food: Dining out can be expensive, but there are also affordable options available.
• Transportation: Owning a car can increase expenses due to fuel costs and parking fees.
• Utilities: Costs for electricity, water, and internet can vary depending on usage.

Tips for Saving Money:

• Cook at home: Prepare meals at home to save money on dining out.
• Use public transportation: Take advantage of Makati’s public transportation system to reduce transportation costs.
• Shop for groceries at local markets: Find affordable produce and groceries at local markets.
• Negotiate prices: Bargain for better deals, especially at markets and street vendors.
• Join expat communities: Connect with other expats for recommendations and discounts.

Social Communities and Networking

Makati has a vibrant expat community, offering opportunities for networking, socializing, and making friends.

Expat Communities and Organizations:

• Makati Expat Club: A popular organization for expats in Makati, offering social events, networking opportunities,and information resources.
• International Women’s Groups: Several women’s groups provide support and networking opportunities for female expats.
• Online Forums and Groups: Connect with other expats through online forums and social media groups.

Networking Opportunities:

• Social Events: Attend expat events, parties, and gatherings to meet new people.
• Professional Networking: Attend industry events, conferences, and workshops.
• Volunteer Work: Get involved in volunteer activities to meet like-minded people and give back to the community.

By joining expat communities and actively participating in networking activities, you can build a strong social circle and make your stay in Makati more enjoyable.