Philippine developers step into the regional spotlight
Over the past decade, the Philippines has emerged as one of the most dynamic real estate markets in Asia, propelled by investments, rapid urbanization and the emergence of new developers, not just in Metro Manila, but across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The market has evolved into a diverse, decentralized landscape with masterplanned communities, estates, and urban and provincial townships that are reshaping the economic centers throughout the archipelago.
This transformation is visibly reflected each year at the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, now in its 13th edition, and at the regional PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, where finalists from the Philippines consistently earn recognition alongside their international peers.
Real estate powerhouse
The country’s evolution into a real estate powerhouse can be seen in the scope and sophistication of today’s award-winning developments.
From expansive mixed-use estates and vibrant lifestyle hubs to next generation logistics centers and sustainable residential enclaves, developers are responding not only to demand, but also to higher expectations for quality, design, and environmental responsibility.
Increasingly, property seekers in the Philippines, along with global investors and the millions of Filipinos overseas, are looking for homes and communities that offer long-term value.
Developers are responding to this with projects that prioritize efficiency, livability, and resilience.
The rise of environmental, social, and governance or ESG-focused awards and energy efficiency categories in the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards mirrors the industry’s shift toward future-ready development that can withstand natural calamities like flooding and earthquakes.
Geographical diversification
One of the most important trends shaping the market is geographical diversification.
High quality developments are flourishing well beyond Metro Manila, giving rise to new growth corridors and regional hubs. Masterplanned communities from North Luzon to Northern Mindanao now demonstrate sophisticated urban planning, mobility integration, and placemaking approaches aligned with international benchmarks.
As more developers expand across the islands, the Philippines is presenting a broader, more representative picture of its real estate capabilities on the regional stage.
This year alone, 24 projects from the Philippines will compete at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final in Bangkok, Thailand, joining country winners from 15 markets including Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Hong Kong.
Significant expansion
Our journey in the Philippines began in 2013, with a modest gala at the Raffles and Fairmont Makati, where only 17 awards were presented.
Since then, the program has grown significantly, with around 500 awards presented from 2013 to 2025 across an expanding range of development, design, and ESG categories.
In 2025, the program recognized excellence in around 70 categories, which is a testament to the industry’s diversity, innovation, and pursuit of global competitiveness.
Most profound shift
Perhaps the most profound shift we have observed is the growing focus on long-term value creation.
Developers are embracing sustainability at scale, while buyers are becoming more discerning. There are a lot of opportunities to improve infrastructure within the capital and emerging cities, from modernized airports to expressways and inter-island connectivity.
These developments collectively shape how the world sees the ambition of Philippine real estate.
Sustaining momentum
Looking ahead, the Philippines can maintain or accelerate its upward momentum by focusing on two strategic priorities: Connectivity and regulatory efficiency.
Continued investment in modern transport networks, integrated mobility systems, and efficient logistics infrastructure will unlock greater regional growth and reinforce investor confidence.
At the same time, simplifying permit processes, expanding incentives for sustainable development, and advancing digital systems will enable developers to build high quality projects more efficiently, strengthening the country’s competitiveness in the region.
As the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards marks its 20th anniversary in 2025, we remain committed to championing Filipino excellence on the international stage. The Philippine real estate sector has shown tremendous progress, and its best years are still ahead.
With sustained focus on innovation, sustainability, and community-centered development, the country is poised to reinforce its position as one of Asia’s most compelling and competitive real estate markets.
The author is the general manager of PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards and Events
