Building Together, Shaping Tomorrow: The Story of Ivory Wood Community – Michael Sy

Nestled in the heart of Acacia Estates, Taguig City, Ivory Wood Residences offers more than just a place to live—it offers a community. With its warm, relaxing ambiance, Filipino-Spanish architecture, and resort-like lifestyle, it is a unique haven.

A Community Like No Other

For the past five years, I, my wife and daughter have been privileged to call Ivory Wood our home. Our community is a tapestry of diverse individuals and families, each contributing to the vibrant life we share. From newlyweds and couples with young children to senior citizens, we all come together, creating a rich, interwoven story of connection and camaraderie.

Our journey together began a year before the pandemic. During those challenging times, the true spirit of our community shone brightly. We provided each other with easy access to goods and services, ensuring no one felt isolated or unsupported. It was a testament to our theme: "Building Together, Shaping Tomorrow." Even amidst uncertainty, we built a support network that helped us thrive.

Our Story: Finding Home in Ivory Wood

In 2015, my wife (then my girlfriend) and I were fascinated by the beauty of a resort-type development and decided to buy a property in Ivory Wood during its pre-selling phase. We were drawn not only by the aesthetic appeal but also by the fact that we had friends and business partners in Acacia Estates. It felt like the perfect place to start our journey together.

In 2017, we got married. Since our property wasn't built yet, we initially rented a condo. Those years were filled with anticipation and dreams of our future home. Then, in 2019, the long-awaited news arrived—we could finally move in. Excitement filled us as we quickly transitioned to our new home, eager to begin this new chapter.

In 2020, our daughter was born, and Ivory Wood became the ideal place for her to grow up. When she was newly born, my wife, her mother, and I took turns every morning to bring her outside to feel the warmth of the sun. After the pandemic, every morning, I would bring her to the clubhouse to play with the neighbors' toddlers, where she began building friendships. We also enjoyed strolls around the playground, exploring the amenities, and swimming in the pools, creating cherished family memories in our beautiful community.

Thriving Through Sports and Activities

As we emerged from the pandemic, our community didn’t just return to normal; we thrived. Sports groups sprang to life, from basketball and volleyball to table tennis, badminton, and now pickleball, fostering camaraderie and healthy competition. My wife played a pivotal role in organizing the badminton group, bringing together neighbors who became friends.

Our events committee, which she is also a part of, orchestrates celebrations that have become the heartbeat of our shared life. From vibrant Ivory Wood anniversary celebration and Christmas decor contests to joyous Halloween and New Year parties, Bingo nights, and heartfelt Father's and Mother's Day events, every gathering strengthens our bonds.

One of the most memorable events is our annual sports fest, where residents of all ages come together to compete in friendly matches of basketball, volleyball, and badminton. The energy is present, and the sense of community is strong as everyone cheers each other on. It's not just about winning; it's about building connections and fostering a sense of belonging.

Activities for Everyone

Our activities are as diverse as our residents. Children twirl and leap in ballet classes, seniors groove in Zumba sessions, and families come together for pool parties, pet lover events, and bazaars showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of our homeowners.

We even have a weekly holy mass, a spiritual anchor for many. Each event, no matter how big or small, plays a role in building our community and shaping our shared future.

Challenges and Triumphs

Like any community, we have faced our share of challenges. Emerging from the pandemic as a new DMCI community presented unique obstacles. Organizing the Ivory Wood Christmas decor contest initially seemed impossible due to resources. However, our resilience saw us through. Through collaborative efforts of the community, like donating materials, and a shared vision, the contest blossomed into a beautiful display that brought residents together. A highlight was the community dance number performed for the judges during their visit.

Future Vision and Goals

Our hopes and dreams for the future of the Ivory Wood community are rooted in our desire to create a place where everyone feels a sense of belonging, security, and joy. We envision a future where our community continues to flourish, driven by shared values and a commitment to inclusivity and growth.

We aim to create a future where every member of our community feels valued and supported. Together, we will build a place that meets today's needs and paves the way for a brighter tomorrow.

Reflections on Our Core Values

One of our community's most cherished values is faith—faith in each other and in the strength of our unity. We believe that the people are the community. Each individual, each family, plays a vital role. Every interaction, every shared moment, creates a ripple effect, strengthening relationships and forging lasting memories.

Faith is evident in our weekly holy masses, where residents gather to reflect, pray, and find spiritual comfort. Family is at the heart of every event we organize, from the joy of children’s laughter at pool parties to the shared stories at our annual bazaars. Togetherness is felt in every aspect of our communal life, ensuring that no one ever feels alone or unsupported.

A Bright Tomorrow

Ivory Wood is more than a place to live; it is a living, breathing community built on the values of faith, community, and togetherness. And as we continue to build together, we are confident that our tomorrow will be bright, filled with hope and endless possibilities.

From the warmth of our Filipino-Spanish architecture to the lively events that bring us together, Ivory Wood stands as a beacon of what it means to build and shape a community. Each day, we work towards a future where our bonds are stronger, our lives are richer, and our community spirit continues to thrive.

About the Author:
Michael Sy is a certified life coach and entrepreneur with a passion for personal development, wellness, and financial education. With a background in Management of Financial Institutions from De La Salle University and experience in trust and portfolio management, he brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as a USANA business leader. A dedicated husband to Beverly and father to Shekhinah Parsley, he integrates his faith and family values into his coaching, helping others discover and live their purpose. Based in the vibrant Ivory Wood community, he actively engages in various community activities and events.