Providing Accessible Financial Schemes for Bonifacio Heights Condominium AFP Members

The country's valiant heroes in uniform - the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officers and personnel - live by a noble code that requires no ordinary lifestyle.  They are mostly assigned out of town, subjected to erratic schedules and need to cope with a life full of uncertainties.  Despite their bravery and selflessness to defend the Mother Land however, they also have another important role as the head of their household.  Just like every provider, their ultimate dream is to give their loved ones a comfortable life, good education, a little luxury, and most notably, a decent home that can signify the fulfillment of all their hard work. 

One of the properties that specifically cater to the housing needs of the men and women of AFP is Bonifacio Heights Condominiums by DMCI Homes.  Launched in June 2005 by the Commander-in-Chief herself, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, this idyllic community presents an enviable location within emerging Fort Bonifacio - unlike other AFP-dedicated communities that are located in far flung areas like Cavite and Tarlac.

To date, the community is more than 90% complete and about 75% are sold, with the last three buildings to be unveiled this year. It is considered as the prestigious off-base home where they can spend quality time with their family, while being located just a few minutes away from the business districts of Makati, Ortigas and Bonifacio Global City.

The project presents another advantage through an affordable financing scheme arranged between DMCI Homes and the Armed Forces & Police Savings & Loan Association, Inc. (AFPSLAI) - a socially responsive institution actively extending loan assistance to members of the AFP and the Police.

Enrico Pesigan, Branch Head of AFPSLAI Bonifacio Branch, said that the agency was established in 1972 to assist in the financial needs of men in uniform who often find a difficult time to apply for loans from other financial institutions because of their considerably "high risk" profession.  "We extend loans and help them manage their savings and investments.  Our primary market consists of the active members of the AFP, PNP, retirees, and as well as their associate members."

Pesigan cited Bonifacio Heights as a condominium development that is presently attracting AFP soldiers because of the accessible financial package arranged with AFPSLAI, specifically the 60% loan assistance for condominium developments and 70% for house and lot, with an allowable paying period of up to 20 years. 

"Because of the reputable brand of DMCI Homes, loan applications for purchasing a unit at Bonifacio Heights are approved rather quickly than in other developments. Also, application for housing loan is not as complicated as most people think.  General requirements are easily secured, and include personal data, an accomplished loan application form, proof of income/savings, marriage contract and Community Tax Certificate of the borrower and spouse," he added. 

Bernadette Coloma, Head for Remedial Asset Management of AFPSLAI said that "The AFPSLAI is here to provide financial services to men in uniform, while promoting responsible borrowing.  Our soldiers' desire to purchase their dream homes, like Bonifacio Heights, is a great avenue for AFPSLAI to show its commitments.  In the process of granting housing loans, we encourage investments, savings through lower interest rates, while our members live happier lives in their new condo home." 

Coloma cited that prices of condo units at Bonifacio Heights are significantly lower than other similar condominium communities located in the same district.  This gives their purchase more value for money than at other developments.

"If you get a unit for P1 million at Bonifacio Heights, you can get a monthly amortization for as low as P13,776 for 10 years.  Your family can afford the monthly amortization while living a very comfortable life without sacrificing other household expenses like the children's education and other daily needs," Coloma explained.

She also cited a valuable tip when acquiring property: "Instead of the AFP personnel, non-military working spouses can apply for a loan because their insurance premium will be cheaper than that of a military.  This will entitle them to a lot of savings in the long run." 

Situated in Fort Bonifacio, Bonifacio Heights Condominiums is an exclusive community composed of 17 condominium buildings, with single loaded corridors and an atrium at the center of each building.  This 7.7-hectare prime site offers all the modern comfort and resort-like living lifestyle such as a central recreation area that includes a two-storey grand clubhouse, swimming pool, basketball court, park, playground, and landscaped surroundings.  

Each building has 5-storey walkups and passenger elevator. Modern conveniences are installed around the building, including an underground cistern and deep well, provision for telephone and CATV line connections, perimeter fence, 24-hour security, and parking areas while well landscaped greens surround the entire development.

A number of present residents of Bonifacio Heights have already availed of loan from AFPSLAI.

Coloma added: "Unit owners are familiar with each other coming from the same profession, and a generally friendly atmosphere permeates in this community.  It's also very highly secure. After a life of defending their country, full nesters and retirees from the AFP now have a home where they can just take it easy and enjoy peaceful moments with their family."

DMCI Homes is the country's first Triple A builder/developer that provides premium quality, urban friendly, fully-serviced communities to young middle income families. For inquiries on Bonifacio Heights Condominiums, please call 844-7790 and 844-4713 or visit https://www.dmcihomes.com. For AFPSLAI financing, AFPSLAI Bonifacio Branch numbers are 8434882 and 8434872.