The lifestyle associated with Muntinlupa City is commonly described as peaceful and relaxed. Such is especially true about its third-largest barangay, Alabang, an area where one can find upscale city living – one more laid-back than other areas in Metro Manila – because of the presence of several residential and commercial developments and many leisure and lifestyle hubs. Alabang has earned its prominent reputation because of its tremendous and rapid economic growth, its serious commitment to innovation and infrastructure, and its intelligent planning of mixed-use areas. Despite the certain sense of class that accompanies the mere mention of Alabang, its residents have managed to maintain its attractive tight-knit and easygoing community culture. This characteristic, among many others, is what makes Alabang a sought-after address. For those who prioritize this sense of community, a quality house for rent in Alabang can be found in certain prestigious residential villages.
The subdivisions or villages nearest Alabang’s lifestyle hubs are in the area of Barangay Cupang, but they are all a few minutes’ drive or walk away from the center of activities. It cannot be denied, however, that the majority of homes found in these areas exhibit a certain class through its amenities that reflects in its slightly more expensive price range. The features within the villages are also an indication of the way residents are pampered.
Homes particularly in Ayala Alabang Village – one of the city’s most expensive and prestigious subdivisions – typically feature contemporary designs in its exterior and interior, wide floor areas, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and a wide garden and swimming pool. The lavish homes in this village are the addresses of some local celebrities and prominent businessmen and women. The 700-hectare suburb boasts of several first-rate facilities like its own mini-mall within the village, which includes a Rustan’s Supermarket and the Alabang Country Club, a premiere sports and recreation facility.
Alabang Hills Village, another well-known subdivision in the area, is accessible from Alabang-Zapote Rd., from within BF Homes, Paranaque via Bb. Ramona Tirona Road, and from the West Service Road. This accessibility to other areas in the south, like Filinvest City and Cavite through Daang Hari Road, attracts many to consider renting a house and lot in Alabang Hills Village, especially because of its closeness to major roads.
In Alabang, families gather regularly in their homes or at the mall, parks, or country clubs within the area. It’s said that Alabang is one of the more ideal settings in Metro Manila for raising a family. There’s a strong community culture that can be felt in Alabang, which is one of its most charming characteristics. Lifestyle and leisure hubs are the heart of Alabang. They provide worthwhile options to wind down on a weeknight or a family trip on the weekends. Many of them are a few minutes away from one another and are easily accessible by commute or by car.
Alabang Town Center is a shopping mall along Alabang-Zapote Road corner Madrigal and Corporate Avenues. It is nearby the Madrigal Avenue gate of Ayala Alabang Village, and is a favorite destination among families and yuppies. Aside from having many retail options, Town, as it is referred to by certified South kids, also has several bookstores, art supplies outlets, and specialty stalls. Also within the mall’s vast complex are six cinemas, sports equipment stores, and The Metro Department Store, which opened in 2012.
Formerly known as Festival Supermall, Festival Alabang is located at Corporate Avenue, Filinvest City. Festival Alabang features stores for apparel, appliances, wellness, and home furnishing among the hundreds of brands that can be found inside its extensive floor area. Festival Alabang caters to all markets, as the mall has mid-range to luxury stalls that can be enjoyed by everyone. The highlights of the mall include its glass walkway that opens up into the mall’s new wing; its 10 high-quality cinemas in its massive complex; X-site, the mall’s indoor theme park; Pixie Forest, a funhouse attraction for kids; and the Festival River Park.
Built in 2012, Molito has established itself as the go-to destination in Alabang for those who prefer hanging outdoors. A few meters away from Alabang Hills Village and across Alabang Town Center, is Molito, an outdoor lifestyle center featuring a strip of enticing cross-cultural restaurants, a third-wave coffee shop, an ice cream store, and a deli within this huge area that draws in visitors of all ages on a daily basis. An art gallery, Galerie Roberto, is one of the few contemporary art galleries in Alabang, showcasing the works of well-known artists as well as emerging ones.
Anyone who steps into Westgate Center in Filinvest City would be greeted by a rich cosmopolitan set-up, with shops and restaurants all lined up, like a strip of outlet stores commonly found in Western malls. It’s a great destination to explore by walking to witness its broad and diverse its offerings. Unique concept stores, worthwhile leisure and wellness options, and even extensive sports shops can be found in Westgate Center, and it’s no wonder many find themselves staying for hours on end.
What makes being in Westgate Center even more enjoyable is how it is a reflection of Filinvest City’s green initiative. The mall is surrounded by trees and plants, creating a haven that exudes an unmistakable comfort and serenity.
House parties are very common in Alabang. People who want to engage in community activities and meeting neighbors will surely enjoy residing there. On some nights, acoustic bands or buskers serenade the crowd at Molito, while seasonal events featuring exhibitions, food festivals, and concerts engage the community. Art workshops and summer talent camps are also held for children and pre-teens.
Traveling to and from Alabang is also relatively easy whether by commute or by car. Residents who reside in any of Alabang’s subdivisions are more-or-less a half-hour away from Makati or Taguig via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) or Skyway. Commuters can also take advantage of the Makati or Taguig point-to-point (P2P) buses at Alabang Town Center for faster and more convenient travel. Additionally, travelling further south to areas like Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Tagaytay are now even easier because of the Muntinlupa Cavite Expressway (MCX).
