Experience Shibuya-style living in Manila - FNG

Experience Shibuya-style living in Manila

  • December 18, 2024
  • Written by: ABS-CBN
  • ABS-CBN

Soaring above Mandaluyong City is The Observatory’s Sora Tower, the first residential building in the 4.5-hectare mixed-use development by Federal Land and Nomura Real Estate Development’s joint venture, FNG. It promises a lifestyle immersed in the buzz and charm inspired by Tokyo’s vibrant Shibuya district with sleek residences and commercial spaces that feature dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

“At The Observatory, we envision more than just a development; we see a nest where urban lifestyles converge to nurture a thriving community,” FNG President Thomas Mirasol said.

The Observatory’s design concept takes inspiration from the Philippine eagle, with its unmatched city vistas and design that mirrors outstretched wings. (Artist’s Perspective). Photo source: Federal Land NRE Global

Prominent design consultants Nikken Housing System Ltd., Garde Co., Ltd., and Magnusson Klemencic Associates worked alongside local firm PRSP Architects to create the planned environment.

FNG will bring food and specialty stores – including Japanese brands – to the retail section of The Observatory. (Artist’s Perspective). Photo source: Federal Land NRE Global

Everything a modern city dweller needs is within a five-kilometer radius—medical centers, top-notch schools, leisure spots, malls, and major corporate hubs. It also connects seamlessly to the Makati, BGC, and Ortigas business districts through EDSA and the BGC-Ortigas Link Bridge, making work-life balance just a short commute away.

Have a view of the BGC skyline from the retail podium of The Observatory. (Artist’s Perspective). Photo source: Federal Land NRE Global

“The Observatory, with its retail podium, residential towers, and office building, is set to not only redefine the Mandaluyong skyline but also set a new benchmark for contemporary urban living,” Mirasol added.

FNG introduces an authentic Japanese living experience in the country through integration of interior and exterior elements in its projects, bringing taste and culture of Japan to Filipinos.

Experience a modern city living experience in Sora Tower and customize your place easily with versatile storage systems. (Artist’s Perspective). Photo source: Federal Land NRE Global

The first residential building set to rise in The Observatory is scheduled for turnover by 2030. Sora Tower’s unit types range from cozy studios to spacious three-bedroom residences and penthouses rooted in Japanese efficiency with flexible features that adapt to preferences.

With a multi-zone layout for washing, preparing, and cooking, this kitchen ensures function. It also features shelves that can be adjusted to fit various cookware, a mobile counter serving as extra space, and a pull-out panel to store items in. (Artist’s Perspective). Photo source: Federal Land NRE Global

Sinks are designed to be multi-functional and space-saving, while kitchen cabinets and wardrobe shelves are adjustable, accommodating every lifestyle. FNG also incorporates the Genkan in every unit. This traditional Japanese entryway serves as a transition between the outdoors and indoors and doubles as a storage for items like shoes and umbrellas.

Shibuya, one of the most popular areas in Tokyo, is a bustling district that is the ideal neighborhood for professionals. Photo source: Jezael Melgoza on Unsplash

Each tower in The Observatory will capture the essence of Japanese city culture, with meticulous attention to detail aimed at enhancing residents’ comfort and convenience. Sora Tower particularly draws inspiration from Shibuya, renowned in pop culture for its dynamic energy, to attract the younger generation.

The co-working space is conducive for professionals with a work-from-home setup. (Artist’s Perspective). Photo source: Federal Land NRE Global

This influence is reflected in thoughtfully curated amenities like a co-working space, an entertainment room with a private karaoke area, and an outdoor lounge that features a floor design reminiscent of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Like the iconic intersection, Sora Tower’s lounge fosters connections, allowing residents to build a sense of community.

Sora Tower’s pet park is a place of convergence for pets and their fur parents. (Artist’s Perspective). Photo source: Federal Land NRE Global

Another notable amenity is the pet park with its own version of the beloved Hachiko statue, catering to the rising trend of young fur parents. It offers a space for bonding with pets and fellow pet lovers.

FNG executives and LGU officials formally broke ground for The Observatory. In photo: FNG’s Head of Sales Margarita Saenz-Resurreccion, Head of Urban Planning & Design Arch. Gilbert Berba, President Thomas Mirasol, Chairman Alfred V. Ty, Mandaluyong City Mayor Benjamin Abalos Sr., Vice Mayor Carmelita Abalos, FNG’s Vice Chairman Yusuke Hirano, Executive Advisor Masaya Hirao, and Sr. Management Advisor Yasuhiro Ohira. Photo source: Federal Land NRE Global

The project was officially launched in May 2024, with FNG executives and honorable guests Mandaluyong City Mayor Benjamin Abalos Sr. and Vice Mayor Carmelita Abalos at the event’s helm.

The Observatory, being a mixed-use development that is strategically situated in the true center of the Metro, is poised to be a culture, food, and entertainment hub. (Artist’s Perspective). Photo source: Federal Land NRE Global

Sora Tower of The Observatory offers a distinct blend of Japanese design elements and modern convenience for the urban Filipino with its unique and prime elements that capture Shibuya’s atmosphere.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your queries from the categories below.

General Question
Can a foreigner purchase a condominium unit in the Philippines?

Yes, foreigners are allowed to own condominium units in the Philippines, as stated in Section 5 of Republic Act No. 4726, otherwise known as the Condominium Act.

Yes, on the condition that the parent or legal guardian signs the contract on behalf of the minor. Please contact us for more details.

Yes, you can upgrade your purchase. The Developer will first check if the preferred unit is still available. If it is still available, the Buyer will be required to submit a written request. Once the request is approved, a new contract will be drawn up for the upgraded unit.

Yes. The process to downgrade is similar to that of upgrading a unit purchase. However, all expenses incurred by the Developer (commission, incentives, penalties, downgrading fee, etc.) shall be deducted from the Buyer’s original contract price, in favor of the Developer.

What are the available payment terms?

There are several payment terms available – Cash Term, Bank Financing Term, Deferred Cash/Installment Term, and No Down Payment Term. Please contact us for more details as the availability of these payment terms also vary per project.

Yes, you may change or restructure your selected term, but this will also be subject to Management’s approval and we will be charging a minimal processing fee.

Yes, we accept payment in US dollars. The exchange rate shall be based on the date the payment is credited to the Developer’s account.

On or before the due date of the first (1st) monthly amortization, the Buyer is required to submit Postdated Checks for the remaining monthly amortizations (that is, until the end of the payment term).

The developer adheres to provisions as stipulated in Republic Act No. 6552 or the “Realty Installment Buyer Protection Act,” also known as the Maceda Law. This law states that when the Buyer has paid at least two (2) years of installments, the seller/developer shall refund 50% of the total payments made if there is a cancellation on the purchase. For payments less than two years, the provisions as stipulated in the Contract to Sell will prevail.

How much is the reservation fee?

Reservation fees vary per project from Php ____ to Php ______.

Requirements to officially reserve a unit or lot are as follows:

1. Full payment of the Reservation Fee

2. Photocopy of one (1) valid government-issued IDs of Principal Buyer/s and Spouse/s (if applicable). Valid government-issued IDs with photos and signatures:

  • Passport
  • Driver’s License
  • GSIS ID
  • SSS ID
  • Professional Regulatory Commission ID
  • Tax Identification Number ID card
  • Senior Citizen ID
  • Postal ID
  • Photocopy of TIN ID card or BIR validated 1904 form

3. Fully accomplished and signed Reservation Application

4. Fully accomplished Buyer’s Information Sheet. For purchase under a Corporation, the following additional documents are required:

  • Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws (photocopy)
  • Secretary’s Certificate indicating the name of authorized signatory (notarized)
  • BIR-validated 1903 or copy of Certificate of Registration
  • For the authorized signatory to submit items 2 and 3 above

The reservation is valid for thirty (30) calendar days from the settlement of reservation fee. Kindly submit all the required documents to finalize the unit booking.

No, the reservation fee is non-refundable and non-transferrable. As stated in the Reservation Application, the reservation fee will be forfeited in favor of the Developer if no succeeding payments are received.

Will I be allowed to inspect the Unit before the actual turnover?

Yes, the Hand Over Team will coordinate with the Buyer on the schedule of unit inspection.

Yes, the Buyer may assign a representative to accept the unit on his behalf thru a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA). The SPA is also required to bring a valid ID plus photocopy.

Yes, you may have your unit leased out.

Monthly Association Dues vary per project, depending on the operating expenses of the building. Association Dues are used to defray the cost of maintaining and operating the building’s common areas and facilities. These costs include administration/management fees, janitorial, security, taxes and licenses, insurances, real estate tax, maintenance of equipment water distribution, garbage collection, maintenance of sewage treatment plant, and other miscellaneous expenses.

The unit turnover will be scheduled when all the following conditions are met:

  • Full payment of the contract price (including penalties and interests, if applicable)
  • Complete submission of all the required sales documents (listed above)
  • Payment of related Advance Registration Charges (ARC).

No, this is not allowed. Buyers are encouraged to either avail of bank financing (with accredited banks) or in-house financing to pay the unit in its entirety.