Tale of Three Cities in Laguna and why you should call it your home*

*Credit to Next Asia Land for the article

In CALABARZON, Laguna is one of the provinces you can find. You can find Laguna in the southeast of Manila, with Santa Cruz as its capital. The name Laguna originated from the Spanish word “Lago” which means lake. Our national hero, Jose Rizal, was born in Laguna, just one of the fun facts about this province.

Laguna was named after Laguna de Bay, the enormous body of water in the northern boundary. Laguna de Bay in Spanish means “Lake of Bay”, which is very appropriate for the province. Captain Juan Salcedo, along with his military brigade and Bisayan associates, conquered the province and surrounding areas for Spain in 1571.

Christianization came to light several years later with the assistance of two Franciscan friars. Around 1577, Franciscan missionaries arrived in Laguna. Approximately one year later, the evangelization of Laguna began. Juan de Placencia and Diego de Oropesa were sent to the towns of Bay, Caliraya, Majayjay, Liliw, Pila, Santa Cruz, Lumban, Pangil, and Siniloan. Years later, Fray Hernando Cabrera founded San Pablo de Los Montes, which is now known as San Pablo. Fray Hernando built a wooden church and convent in 1678.

At the time, the bay was one of the most populous towns and was considered the capital until the seat of the government was moved to Pagsanjan. Later, Santa Cruz heralded it as the capital. There was a division of the provinces of Laguna and Tayabas in 1754, which separated the towns of Majayjay and Lucban from Malinao River.

The province was not except for bloody battles. The Chinese made a valiant last stand in the mountains of San Pablo and strategically fortified the lands of Cavinti and Lumban. However, they surrendered in Pagsanjan in 1670.

The resilient residents of Laguna province also fought against British colonizers. Captain Thomas Backhouse was in search of silver. Francisco de San Juan of Pagsanjan, with volunteers, led several engagements around the province. Captain Backhouse was not having it and burnt the newly constructed church. But a big surprise came for Captain Backhouse as San Juan successfully hid and transported the hoard to Pampanga. San Juan was honored as a hero, a brigade commander, and alcalde mayor of Tayabas province.

Even with the challenges presented by colonizers, war and religious occupation, Laguna slowly evolved into a peaceful province it is today, progressive and thriving.

Memorable Cities to Settle in Laguna

There are many cities with multiple houses and lots for sale in Laguna. There are some cities that definitely stand out. These cities have certain distinct features that make each special. Laguna, in general, has so many places to see and visit, you won’t ever get bored. The recent emergence of real estate investors has attracted many property developers to this province. It’s the province to go to for new business opportunities in the south.

When making the right choice for you, know what you want. Research on various aspects, such as cost of living, transportation, and infrastructure. You’d be surprised about the information you uncovered. Be a smart consumer, this is where you’ll potentially invest in your hard earned savings. Make your decision count. With that being said, here are two cities in Laguna that you’ll definitely want to double check:

Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa has everything you might need. It has the modern comforts of the metro, conveniently built in the south. This city will guarantee that you’ll enjoy both the futuristic and suburban aspect it offers. You can find Santa Rosa approximately 40 kilometers from Manila and 50 kilometers northwest of Santa Cruz.

Santa Rosa is accessible by using the South Luzon Express Way. The two exits you’ll find in Santa Rosa are Greenfield City Exit and Santa Rosa Exit. For travel within the vicinity, public transportation is also available for easy access.

Santa Rosa is definitely laid back. As one of the prime locations for a house and lot for sale in Laguna, Santa Rosa has many suburban communities that can accommodate people who are planning to relocate and get away from the toxic city life. Children can join prestigious school communities just a few minutes away from their homes.

Surrounding yourself with nature gives you a different perspective in life. You’ll learn to appreciate what you have more. Your connection to the earth is closer, as you appreciate the serenity your surroundings offer.

You won’t miss out on sales and the latest retail because of the many commercial and shopping establishments in Santa Rosa. Save up on money with great outlet deals, which are also available in shopping districts in the area. Now, you don’t have to go to the big malls or the north. Bypass the traffic and enjoy what Santa Rosa has to offer.

Enjoy various leisure activities such as a relaxing water taxi ride on a lake. Bikers can enjoy trails with Mount Makiling as your view. For runners, don’t worry, Santa Rosa also has various running trails. Enjoy local farms that are great for family activities and gatherings.

The appeal of Santa Rosa doesn’t stop here. Now with various industrial parks and special economic zones, there are more employment opportunities for job seekers. This city has attracted many expats and retirees looking for serenity in their busy lifestyle.

Calamba

Calamba Laguna is not just a simple resort capital. The historical significance of this city also plays a part in its reputation. The current booming economy attracts local and foreign visitors. Industrialization opened the gates for various business opportunities in this city. Real estate investors are currently keeping a close eye on this progressive city.

North of Mount Makiling, you can find Calamba on its slopes. SLEX is mainly used to access this city. Similar to Santa Rosa, houses and lots for sale in Laguna, Calamba are mostly suburban homes.

Enjoy the wide open spaces and clean air. Let your kids play outside and enjoy the sun. The reduced amount of foot traffic and automobile traffic makes it generally safe and easy to drive and walk around in. Most premier real estate communities in Calamba have clubhouses and parks for the community to enjoy.

A gated community or subdivision of Calamba is guaranteed to be quieter than Metro Manila subdivisions. The lack of noise pollution builds better sleep patterns, you’ll feel more energized and cheerful with improved quality of sleep. Suburban living is calming. It’s warm and friendly, which is great for families and retirees who are looking for a community.

San Pablo

San Pablo city was previously part of Sampaloc. In 1571, the troops of Captain Juan de Salcedo converted Sampaloc into a parish and municipality until 1647. Sampaloc was renamed “San Pablo De Los Montes” to honor the patron saint, Saint Paul the First Hermit. The jurisdiction of San Pablo shifted constantly until 1883, forever solidifying its ties with Laguna. San Pablo is home to many hard working people. These people fought for their independence from the province of Laguna. On May 7, 1940, San Pablo was converted by President Manuel L. Quezon into an independent city.

San Pablo’s claim to fame is their succulent coconuts. They are known for their decadent buko pies, which are very popular among tourists. Join in the celebration of the Coconut Festival that humbly began in 1996. This celebration is held every second week of January. This festival aims to celebrate the coconut tree — a symbol of abundance in the Philippines.

Whilst joining this yearly celebration, you can enjoy the seven lakes of San Pablo Laguna. The lakes of San Pablo can be the centerpiece of your weekend escape from a long and heavy work week. Each lake has a diverse ecosystem alongside breathtaking views.

San Pablo Laguna isn’t complete without a premier first-class residential community. Town Centris by Next Asia is an affordable development that is perfect for starting families and retirees that want to be near the grand nature of San Pablo’s lakes.