The Makati Central Business District (MCBD) is the financial heart of the Philippines and one of Southeast Asia’s most important business hubs. Right in the center of Makati City, the district houses many of the country’s top corporations, banks, multinational companies, and embassies. It is a well-developed area featuring modern skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and world-class shopping centers. The MCBD is the go-to area for commerce, finance, and high-end urban living, attracting professionals from all over the country and abroad. One of the most defining aspects of the MCBD is its well-planned infrastructure, which makes it a model for other business districts across the country. The district boasts wide, clean roads, pedestrian walkways, and efficient transportation systems that allow smooth movement around the city. Beyond its corporate skyscrapers and bustling streets, the district is also home to vibrant residential communities or the MCBD Villages. These villages soon became livelier than ever.
Among these, Bel-Air Village, Salcedo Village, and Legazpi Village stand out. These areas provide not only convenience for those working in the district but also a more balanced lifestyle. The MCBD villages are also home to many parks and green spaces, which are rare in highly urbanized areas. Legazpi Active Park and Ayala Triangle Gardens, for example, offer serene spots where employees and residents can take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. These green spaces are best for fitness activities like jogging, yoga, or simply relaxing. Providing an excellent balance between nature and city living. The interconnected underpasses and pedestrian bridges make the district a safe and accessible space for workers and residents alike. As the financial and commercial center of the Philippines, the Makati Central Business District’s prominence continues to grow.
Legazpi Village
One of the most notable areas of MCBD Villages is the Legazpi Village. Legazpi Village is not just about business; it also offers a lively social scene. The village’s dining and nightlife options are among the best in Makati, with Carlos Palanca Street and Rada Street boasting everything from casual eateries to high-end restaurants. The area’s vibrant nightlife, with trendy bars and lounges, draws both residents and visitors. It became a culinary and entertainment hotspot within the city. Green spaces are a unique feature that sets Legazpi Village apart from other urban neighborhoods. Washington SyCip Park and Legazpi Active Park provide residents with a peaceful escape for jogging, yoga, or simply unwinding after a busy day. These parks also serve as venues for community events. These events include the Legazpi Sunday Market, where locals gather to shop for artisanal goods and fresh produce.
As a prime hub within the MCBD Villages, Legazpi Village is home to a wide array of corporate offices, including BPO companies and local businesses. Its appeal as a professional destination has attracted numerous multinational corporations to establish offices within the area. Professionals seeking convenient, upscale accommodations also find a variety of residential options. From high-rise condominiums to serviced apartments, they’re offering a luxurious yet practical living experience. Shopping and culture are also integral to life in Legazpi Village. With shopping centers like Greenbelt and Glorietta within walking distance, residents have access to a wide variety of retail, dining, and entertainment options. Cultural institutions such as the Ayala Museum and local art galleries further enrich the community, attracting artists and creatives to this bustling part of the city.
Salcedo Village
Salcedo Village, part of the prestigious MCBD Villages, is one of the most sought-after residential areas in Metro Manila. Famous for its luxurious condominiums and high-end apartments, it attracts professionals and expatriates. Some affluent locals enjoy living in a serene environment while still being at the heart of the bustling Makati Central Business District. With major roads like Gil Puyat Avenue and Makati Avenue surrounding it, the village offers accessibility to the rest of the city. Just a short walk from Salcedo Village are Valero and San Agustin Streets, two bustling areas in Makati’s corporate and retail landscape. Valero Street is particularly famous for housing multinational offices, while San Agustin offers a more casual atmosphere with its mix of restaurants and retail outlets. These pedestrian-friendly streets make moving between work and leisure effortless. It ensures that residents have everything they need within reach.
Furthermore, L.P. Leviste Street is a haven for food enthusiasts. It offers a mix of dining experiences ranging from charming cafes to upscale restaurants. The variety of cuisines available caters to diverse residents, visitors, and tourists. At the heart of Salcedo Village is Jaime C. Velasquez Park, also called Salcedo Park. The park serves as an oasis within the MCBD Villages and is frequented by residents for its jogging paths and recreational spaces. It becomes even livelier during the weekends when the Salcedo Community Market takes place, attracting food lovers and families looking to enjoy a variety of gourmet treats. Regular activities such as art exhibits and weekend markets also keep the neighborhood vibrant and engaging. Commercial establishments within Salcedo Village provide convenience to its residents and office workers. The abundance of banks, cafes, restaurants, and retail stores ensures that daily needs are easily met.
Bel-Air Village
Bel-Air Village, one of the prestigious MCBD Villages is a prime residential area for affluent locals and expatriates. This gated and private community has maintained its reputation as an exclusive enclave. With its well-planned layout and upscale homes, Bel-Air Village offers residents a serene environment while still being conveniently close to the hustle and bustle of Makati’s commercial and business hubs. Within Bel-Air Village, residents can take advantage of a spacious clubhouse, swimming pools, and sports courts. It offers a range of amenities that cater to various lifestyles. The community hosts numerous events throughout the year strengthening the sense of belonging among its residents. As one of the most secure communities in the MCBD Villages, it employs 24/7 security patrols and strictly controlled access points, ensuring that residents feel safe and protected at all times.
Furthermore, Bel-Air Village is strategically near some of Makati’s most prominent landmarks. Rockwell Center, Century City Mall, and Ayala Triangle Gardens are just minutes away, offering a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Additionally, Makati Medical Center, one of the leading hospitals in Metro Manila, is easily accessible, providing residents with top-tier healthcare services right at their doorstep. Jupiter Street and Makati Avenue, key thoroughfares near Bel-Air Village, offer even more convenience for its residents. A short 8-minute walk connects these streets, which are lined with restaurants, retail shops, and offices. This proximity underscores the convenience of living in the MCBD Villages, where all essential services and leisure activities are just a stone’s throw away. Public transportation and major roads surround Bel-Air Village. Jeepneys, buses, and nearby MRT stations provide quick commutes to various parts of Makati and neighboring cities.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for more places to go around the Makati Central Business District, you should check out:
- Poblacion 2024 – Night walk to Makati’s Red-Light District
- Rockwell Center – The bright-glowing business center in Makati
- Greenbelt Mall; A go-to shopping mall in Makati
