Oakwood Premier Ayala Center General Manager Robert Rosetti recalls that just a few years ago, balikbayans were very visible only in the month of December. These days, Filipinos who have taken permanent residency abroad are part of Oakwood’s guest roster throughout the year.

Balikbayans on vacation with their families are usually here to visit relatives, to attend a wedding in the family or some other important event, he recalls. They stay three weeks on the average and are very at home in the luxury residence in the heart of the Makati Business District.

Part of Oakwood’s attractions to balikbayans visiting the country with their children is the establishment’s location within a mall, a few steps away from shops, restaurants, cinemas and other services. Christine Gella, Director of Sales, points out that Oakwood’s location allows the children of the returning residents a fair amount of independence which they are used to in their country of residence. The kids are free to go on their own on some days in an environment where the parents feel they will be secure," she notes.

On the part of the parents, the self-contained Oakwood residences which come with a living area, an entertainment center, full kitchen and laundry facilities give them the freedom to be less reliant on the hospitality of relatives. Ms. Gella observes that they are used to cooking and doing the laundry themselves and truly appreciate the facilities offered by Oakwood. Moreover, the luxury residence provides storage space for balikbayan boxes and pasalubongs in each of the units.

Following Oakwood’s high guest rate of return in general, once balikbayan families have tried Oakwood, they are likely to return. They are also highly likely to refer Oakwood to other balikbayans.

In response to their loyalty, Oakwood Premier Ayala Center offers local resident rates to returning Filipinos. By simply presenting their Philippine passports or Alien Certificates of Registration, they can avail of special rates.