Just what the doctor ordered: A relaxing home

This is our suburban holy grail: a home away from chaotic city life, a healthier alternative to urban living. Ayala Land Premier (ALP) is giving people just that with its growing community situated south of Manila called Ayala Westgrove Heights in Silang, Cavite.

Ayala Westgrove Heights features lush trees, first-class amenities, as well as a safe and secure environment to build one’s dream home. Dig this: most residents of Ayala Westgrove are doctors. Just like Dr. Efren A. Jamir and wife Veni.

After having spent many years in Florida as a pediatric doctor, Efren, along with his wife, decided to retire in the Philippines. For them, there was no better place to settle down than in Westgrove. Efren and Veni have been living there for five years now. What drew them to Westgrove in the first place? They were attracted to the spacious and pollution-free prime location, which is quite rare for a real estate development so near Metro Manila.

With his house in Westgrove, Efren is reminded of his old Florida home. "The place we lived in was like this," he shares. "It had a rural setting but at the same time it was so close to the city. We lived several miles east of Orlando, which was 30 to 40 minutes away. For us today, it’s like going to Alabang from Westgrove."

Initially upon retirement, Efren went to Davao and Veni to Tagaytay to look at different developments. After that, she saw the lots in Westgrove. Efren recalls, "We decided on this place because it is not crowded. Plus, it has a relaxing country setting. We immediately chose this also because my relatives live in Alabang and Imus, Cavite. We have good neighbors and the subdivision has a friendly atmosphere."

Veni enjoys the many activities that the village clubs conduct. She also gets the opportunity to pursue other hobbies. With the serene atmosphere, the couple enjoys gardening together. Their lawn and backyard are filled with fruit trees (atis, chico, tamarind, rambutan and langka), as well as decorative flower plants.

Perhaps the most important thing is the service that Ayala Property Management Corporation provides. The people behind Ayala Westgrove make sure they not only meet the residents’ needs, but also exceed all their expectations.

Veni shares, "Cleanliness is very important. We were looking for a cool place where we could be comfortable. In our old home in the US, we had trees, lots of space, and closeness between community members. We have many friends there, and it is the same here. If you need something, you know that somebody will come to your assistance."

To keep Efren busy, he swims in the clubhouse pool, uses the fitness room, and goes to Mass every Saturday at the social hall. He enthuses, "It is very convenient here. You have everything within walking distance. It is so close to everything. It’s quiet and secure."

Plus, he does medical missions, which provide free checkups and medicine samples to those in need. "When my friends from the US visit the Philippines, or when the Rotary Club of Silang, Cavite, has similar activities, they call me and I join them in providing medical services. It gives me a nice feeling and at the same time it’s an eye-opener. It feels good to help in our own small way. Once you’re retired, you have to be active, otherwise both the mind and body deteriorate," says Efren.

Last year, the Jamirs’ Seattle-based son visited them and found Westgrove very relaxing. Efren shares, "He loves the area, and he told us that he likes the house because it reminds him of Florida."

When they lived in the States, they had orange trees instead of mango trees in their backyard. Now the Jamirs are looking forward to a visit from their three grandkids who will surely enjoy the playground and the clubhouse swimming pool.

Efren and Veni enjoy being part of the Westgrove community. "Ayala Land has been excellent. You can trust them." Veni concludes, "I don’t think we will ever leave Westgrove. We are very happy here."

If it is an Ayala Land investment, you will surely get premium residences in a spacious, prime location with first-class amenities. Now, that is quality living, indeed.

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For more information on Ayala Westgrove Heights, call 728-7000, log on to www.ayalalandpremier.com, or send e-mail to ask@ayalalandpremier.com.