Golf communities rise up to meet growing demand

More than just amenities, golf courses are scaling up lifestyles in gated communities

- CARLA MORTEL BARICAUA

Leisure-focused developments such as golf communities are increasing in numbers, particularly outside of the National Capital Region.

Across the country, there are more than 80 golf courses with world-class features such as tropical environments and elevation blends that were mostly built pre-2000.

One of the first gated golf communities in the country, Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club, features two Jack Nicklaus championship courses that were launched in the early 1990s. Known for its elevated terrain, Tagaytay Highland International Golf Club, Inc. was designed by golf architect Richard Bigler and began operations in 1994.

Opened in December 2013, Anvaya Cove Golf and Sports Club's coastal layout and scenic seaside courses were designed by Kevin Ramsey of Golfplan-Dale and Ramsey and developed by Ayala Land.