Malayan Plaza construction shifts to high gear

Construction of Malayan Plaza, a well-appointed 36-level residential condominium now fast rising at the Ortigas Center, is right on target with completion set in 2005.

Combining luxury and convenience, Malayan Plaza (formerly ASB-Malayan Tower) promises to be the next prime residential address at the bustling commercial district in Mandaluyong.

The building is being constructed by Malayan Insurance Co. Inc. (MICO), the country’s largest non-life insurance company. A member of the Yuchengco Group of Companies, MICO took over the development of the project from ASB Realty last August.

"We are working on a full schedule with a full manpower complement to make sure the building is completed on time," said Lino Topacio, president of Total Ventures, Inc. (TVI) – the project’s general contractor.

On average, 156 personnel work on all 36 floors six days a week. The balance of construction work consists of interior finishing, exterior curtain walling and installation of various engineering components such as mechanical, electrical, plumbing and drainage, and elevator works. Civil works on the superstructure and subterranean levels are substantially completed.

TVI is credited for constructing other premium grade projects including the Yuchengco Museum as well as the Executive Offices and Food Court at the RCBC Plaza in Makati City.

Supply and installation of the building’s exterior curtain wall was awarded to SEAPAC Philippines – a firm specializing in the design, supply and installation of high-rise glass windows utilizing the latest technology from its parent company in Australia.

"By the second quarter of 2004, we should be ready to start assembling on site all components of the builing’s exterior and glass aluminum cladding," said Chris Shearer, general manager of SEAPAC. The firm has started importing the glass and fabricating the dies and millions.

Villarosa and Associates is collaborating with G-3 Design Studio as design architects for the base building and interior design while the landscaping concept was prepared by Belt-Collins.

Units in varying layouts that include studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and split-level suit with loft are now available. Reservations may be made through Pia Franco at 670-1874.