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Coastal land reclamation: A glimpse into today’s urban development strategies

August 25, 2023 10:30 p.m.

Coastal land reclamation is increasing and will continue to grow and be a popular urban strategy in places that experience urban growth.

This is according to a study, “Mapping 21st Century Global Coastal Land Reclamation,” that analyzed landsat satellite images from 2000 to 2020 to quantify spatial extent, scale, and land use of urban coastal reclamation of 135 cities globally with populations exceeding one million. Key findings indicate that 78% of these cities have turned to reclamation to create additional land, resulting in 253,000 hectares of new land, an area equivalent to Luxembourg.

Land reclamation is the process of creating new land from the sea. It’s often used in places with scarcity of land and high population density for many purposes. From Western Europe and West Africa to the Middle East, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, these countries’ cities reclaim lands for port extension, residential/commercial, and industrial purposes aimed at creating tourist and green spaces. Key drivers like global trade and rapid urbanization are already ubiquitous, so for the next step, these cities desire prestigious place-making efforts and enhanced international reputation.

“Coastal land reclamation is a forward-looking approach to urban development,” says Architect Ian Fulgar, the principal architect of Fulgar Architects. It allows cities to preserve valuable ecosystems and resources from urban sprawl by expanding spaces without encroaching on existing natural land. More importantly for architects, urban planners, and modern city dwellers, it presents an opportunity to have purpose-built urban environments specifically designed to meet their needs.

“Architects and urban planners can design sustainable and efficient infrastructure with a blank canvas, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices in urban planning. This approach can lead to more resilient and adaptive cities capable of mitigating the effects of climate change and other environmental challenges,” adds Architect Fulgar.

Cities that lead coastal land reclamation

Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong, says Architect Fulgar, are some of the world’s most notable cities with impressive urban reclamation projects. “Not only have they transformed their respective landscapes but also captured global attention,” he says.

Photo credit to Anastasia Yudin. An aerial shot of Flower Dome in Singapore.

Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are testaments to the city-state’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The former is a luxury integrated resort famed for transforming Singapore’s coastline and city skyline, whereas the latter is a spectacularly unique horticultural destination that combines art, science, and nature. These reclaimed land developments further boost the country’s international reputation and real estate value around the area.

For some parts of the United Arab Emirates, coastal land reclamation has significantly changed its geography. Dubai, which has completely transformed into an ultramodern city, features ambitious projects now known as some of the most recognizable developments in the world like Palm Jumeirah and The World. “They have reshaped the coastline and established the city as a leader in innovative development, significantly elevating Dubai’s real estate value and worldwide interest,” says Architect Fulgar.

Photo credit to Abid Bin Nazar. An aerial view of Palm Jumeirah.


Palm Jumeirah is an awe-inspiring artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree when viewed from above. It houses some of Dubai’s luxury hotels, residences, and entertainment venues. Likewise, The World is a groundbreaking project composed of small artificial islands in the shape of a world map.

Lastly, Hong Kong’s commitment to preserved art, culture, and ongoing sustainable urban development is exemplified by its West Kowloon Cultural District. It is a 40-hectare reclaimed site along Victoria Harbour’s waterfront designated as the city’s vibrant cultural quarter where the local arts scene can interact, develop, and collaborate throughout its sustainability principles.

Architect Fulgar, who firmly believes in creating spaces that foster belonging and unity, highlights that Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong share common denominators in their successful urban reclamation projects. These are innovative design and planning, focus on sustainability and commitment to cultural and societal development, and the subsequent increase in real estate value.

“These projects have created iconic and visually striking landscapes by pushing the boundaries of engineering and urban design. Sustainability is often at the forefront, integrating practices and technologies that minimize environmental impact and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors,” says Architect Fulgar on these cities’ commitment to sustainability atop function and aesthetics.

Best practices of coastal land reclamation

Despite recognition of world-class reclamation projects, one of their primary challenges is facing criticism and potential issues over sustainability concerns. Architect Fulgar shares that the solution is through the responsibility of vital stakeholders to adopt a collaborative approach and adaptive strategies in implementing best practices, such as prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience goals in waterfront developments.

“The future of city development, especially in coastal areas, rests with stakeholders prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience. By adopting a comprehensive, collaborative, and adaptable strategy, they can transform the design, construction, and management of waterfront development – ultimately creating more sustainable, resilient, and prospering urban environments that benefit both people and the environment,” adds Architect Fulgar.

Moreover, Architect Fulgar puts emphasis on a well-planned project that begins with the developers’ thorough research and analysis of the selected area about potential environmental impacts, disaster risks, and local community needs. Architects and engineers need to incorporate sustainable design principles and green and blue spaces to reduce the development’s environmental footprint.

“Trends and insights on global reclamation illustrate the potential of reclamation projects in addressing various urban development, environmental conservation, and community well-being needs – leading to more sustainable and resilient urban planning worldwide. By adopting these lessons and focusing on sustainable growth, the Philippines can capitalize on its potential and carve a path to a brighter future.”

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“Priceless” Nino Muhlach FAMAS trophy sold to Boss Toyo 

12:59 p.m. May 15, 2024

Entrepreneur and child actor Nino Muhlach gave Boss Toyo one of his prized awards from the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) in exchange for P500,000.

But Boss Toyo reiterated that Muhlach’s award is “priceless” and will become part of his future museum. 

In an episode of Pinoy Pawnstars last Monday, Boss Toyo haggled with Muhlach, who personally visited the content creator’s shop in Quezon City to personally give one of his five FAMAS awards and make it as part of his collection.

“Aalagaan mo ‘yan, irerestore mo yan [Take care of that, restore it],” Muhlach told Boss Toyo. 

Boss Toyo said that he wants to restore the award, one of Muhlach’s five FAMAS awards to its former glory and showcase it in his planned museum alongside the award that Jiro Manio sold to Boss Toyo a few months ago. 

Muhlach said that it was Toyo who personally inquired about the award and decided to sell to the content creator one of the five Best Child Performer awards that he received in his career. 

“I decided to give it to him, pero big deal, kailangan alagaan niya and irestore niya and ilagay niya sa museum niya, dahil hindi ko na naalagaan, ‘yun ang deal namin [I decided to give it to him, but big deal because he needs to take care of it seriously, restore it and put it in his museum because I never take care of it. That’s our deal],” Muhlach said.

Boss Toyo said that Nino Muhlach’s FAMAS award is one of his dream items as he wants to note how Muhlach changed Filipino entertainment through his movies with noted Filipino actors such as the King of Filipino movies and legends such as Fernando Poe Jr. and Dolphy. 

“Ikaw ang barometer, ‘pag sinabing ‘child actor’, tandaan natin, wala pa akong nakitang nakadaig sayo as a child actor [You are the barometer of a ‘child actor’ because we have to remember nobody does it better than you],” Toyo said. 

Apart from the award, Muhlach gave to Boss Toyo some of the theater lobby cards from the movies he starred in and produced. 

Aside from acting, Muhlach also dabbled in several businesses, including the El Nino Apartments and Muhlach Ensaymada, which was gifted to Boss Toyo.

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Check out this Next-Gen ID of Ateneo De Manila University, powered by Maya 

12:30 p.m. May 15, 2024

Have you caught sight of the latest innovation making waves at the Ateneo de Manila University? Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, has unveiled its cutting-edge ID card at the Ateneo de Manila University, redefining campus experiences and revolutionizing security and cashless transactions for students, faculty, and staff alike.

Featuring a sleek design and an embedded RFID chip, this Maya-powered ID card provides seamless access to vital university points, ensuring convenience and security not only on campus but also beyond. But here’s the kicker—it’s not just about identification. Maya’s collaboration with Ateneo goes beyond mere convenience—it’s about revolutionizing the entire campus experience by linking this innovative ID card to the Maya app. Together with Maya’s end-to-end cashless ecosystem, it simplifies identification, empowers students, faculty, and staff to make secure payments across the campus, and drives adoption of financial services.

Additionally, the Ateneo community can experience smooth transactions not just within campus establishments like Kitchen City and Macroasia, but also at nearby off-campus establishments like McDonald’s and Starbucks. And there’s more—this ID card offers exclusive offers and promotions through the Maya app, in addition to enabling users to purchase load, pay bills, open savings accounts, and invest in Funds and Stocks, among other features.

With Maya leading the charge, the groundbreaking partnerships established with UP-Diliman in 2019, UP-Cebu last year, and this year’s collaboration with Ateneo are reshaping the educational landscape through cutting-edge technology. Say hello to secure, efficient, and modern campus environments, welcoming a new era of university experiences across the Philippines.

To dive deeper into the Maya experience, head over to maya.ph and mayabank.ph. Don’t forget to follow Maya at @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and @mayaofficialph on Twitter for the latest updates.

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foodpanda logistics pays tribute to Ka-panda moms

2:00 p.m. May 14, 2024

They say that being a mother is a tough job in itself, especially when you’re also a working mom. But these mom heroes are taking it a notch higher by taking on a job typically dominated by men – navigating busy streets and traffic to support their families as delivery partners. Their resilience and dedication make them truly exceptional, embodying the spirit of hard work and determination.

Last Mother’s Day, delivery service provider foodpanda logistics paid tribute to the mothers in their Ka-panda delivery fleet who broke barriers and paved the way for themselves and their families, one delivery at a time.

Mom & daughter tandem

The bond between a mother and daughter is undoubtedly one of the most powerful relationships there is, and this dynamic duo takes it to the streets as freelance delivery partner bikers. Nina Heroda is a newcomer Ka-panda, having joined just four months ago, and her mother Purita followed shortly after.

“Pinagsasabay ko ang pag-aasikaso sa mga anak ko at pagha-hanapbuhay. Kahit uuwing pagod, kakayod ulit kinabukasan. Go lang nang go,” Nina shared.

Purita was also drawn to becoming a Ka-panda because of the opportunities it offered. Besides the typical motorcycle riders, bikers also have the chance to deliver orders, while enjoying the flexibility in their hours. “Ang kagandahan sa pagiging delivery partner ay nakakaya kong i-manage yung oras ko sa pagiging ina at pagiging Ka-panda. Ulirang ina sa umaga, tapos kukuha naman ako ng delivery session pagdating ng hapon. ”

Riding towards the future

A single mom maneuvering through the streets delivering food and grocery orders on her e-scooter – that is Jay Ann Martinez.Her e-scooter gives her the freedom and independence to build a brighter future for her daughter, even as a single parent.

“Kapag minsan na masama pakiramdam ko, pwedeng hindi muna kumuha ng session. Pero kapag gumaling, balik agad. Bilang nanay, kailangan natin ma-provide yung mga kailangan ng mga anak natin kahit mahirap dahil wala tayong hindi kakayanin para sa pamilya.”

Soldiering on foot

The Ka-panda delivery fleet’s inclusivity even extends its opportunities to walkers who fulfill orders on foot. This presents a unique chance for individuals who either don’t own vehicles or lack the know-how to operate one, such as Reena Dolores. She decided to become a Ka-panda to join her husband.

“Sa kagustuhan ko tumulong sa asawa ko, pinapasok ko na rin ang pagiging delivery partner. Nagagampanan ko pa rin naman ang pagiging ina dahil minsan, maghahatid ako ng mga anak ko tapos magde-deliver.”

A tribute to Ka-panda SuperwoMoms

The Ka-panda moms were treated to gifts from foodpanda logistics brand partners Silverworks and Motivo, as well as cash giveaways. They also had the opportunity to bond with their family members to celebrate the special occassion.

“It’s amazing how these women delivery partners show that they are just as capable as men in this line of work. We pay tribute to the amazing mothers in our delivery fleet because they represent the resilience and dedication we admire,” said foodpanda logistics Rider Experience Lead Ron Sanders.

In addition to rewarding the moms, foodpanda logistics also provided special Quests for its delivery fleet, allowing them to earn extra income by completing a series of orders on Mother’s Day last May 12. Raffle entries were also available for a chance to win one of the brand-new motorcycles.

“On Mother’s Day, we honored the exceptional contributions of Ka-panda moms and extend a warm invitation to aspiring mothers to become part of our Ka-panda community,” Sanders emphasized.

Visit the foodpanda riders Facebook page to discover the compelling stories of these Ka-pandas, alongside other Ka-panda mothers.

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