In an empty clinic room, a curious guy stares in awe at his computer screen. He is looking at a webpage; it is Prisma, a newly launched project of DMCI. His eyes are dreamy as he scrolls through the page, imagining himself standing on the balcony of his condo unit, overlooking the lush landscape of that neighborhood, complete with a pool and all the amenities of comfort. What a dream, a calming escape within the busy jungle of the city, what a life.
Photo by Jordan Berto
The angst of reality hits him as he sees how much that dream costs. It is hopeless for him. How could he afford it? He is just a 22-year-old fresh out of college from a sleepy town near Baguio, trying his luck in Manila. He works for minimum wage, caring for sick people who probably live in one of those high-rise condos he can only dream of.
He goes home to his rented, shabby apartment room, still reeling from the idea of possibly living in a DMCI condo in the future. He can only hope that home will be his tomorrow. Several times, he visits that website again and again, even though he can barely afford his current everyday living expenses.
For the next seven years, he juggles different jobs while living from one rental to another. He did live in some condos as well. These were small units that barely offered any comfort after a busy day of work. Some had amenities but were either unmaintained, incomplete, or just plain concrete blocks, full of compartmentalized square units barren of character or life. His dream of living in DMCI never left him.
He does manage to get ahead in life; he found a job that pays well. When the time comes and he can afford a better home, Prisma is his first choice even if he never saw it in person. He made some inquiries with other developers and visited some as well. For some reason, he always finds fault with each condo he visits.
When he steps into Prisma for the first time, it feels right. He immediately feels at home. It exceeds his expectations. The friendly yet strict security assures him of a safe neighborhood. He is welcomed by a spacious, open-air lobby with soothing music; he spots a corner where he can relax. The expansive pool in the midst of a green lawn catches his eye, children playing happily. He imagines them becoming friends despite being strangers.
Excitement fills him as he explores the neighborhood. Everything is built well for the residents. Overlooking the pool is a gym where he looks forward to jogging on treadmills to stay fit. He notices an entertainment room nearby and imagines inviting friends and family for karaoke and fun.
Around the corner, construction is ongoing. Curiously, he peeks in and sees a conference room and a coworking space. "I could work there," he thinks to himself. He can't help but compare Prisma with the other condos he has visited and lived in. DMCI has its residents’ best interests in mind when designing the property.
More than the amenities, what truly impresses him are the people roaming and interacting around. Some were walking their pets too. They were not just people who happened to live within the same compound. DMCI surely knows how to create more than just a cluster of tall buildings—a neighborhood with a vibrant community spirit.
He's delighted. In no time, he's signing documents for his two-bedroom condo unit. The process is smooth, and the requirements are sensible. He feels no hesitation; everything feels right. He is set to move in just a couple of months later.
As the new year of 2024 approaches, excitement builds. He eagerly anticipates decorating his new home, joining online groups for Prisma residents, and trading appliances and furniture with soon-to-be neighbors.
He takes advantage of Prisma's in-house electricians and plumbers, arranging installations for a minimal fee. Permits are easily obtained online without hassle, with proactive property management assisting in his move.
In late February, he spends his first night in his new home, bringing his cat along. Both are very comfortable.
In the following months, he immerses himself in his new home and life.
He establishes a daily routine, just as he had envisioned seven years ago: mornings on his balcony with coffee, away from road fumes; he walks, swims in the pool, or jogs in the gym, depending on his mood. He grabs breakfast at the grocery store in the basement, checks his online orders in the parcel area, and then heads to his unit. He books a shuttle with DMCI’s RideShare whenever he needs to report to work. He believes every developer should have this, avoiding the stress of looking for a ride for their residents, which is always expensive.
He's also an active member of several clubs. On Sundays, he loves seeing his neighbors whenever he attends the community-organized mass in the lobby, some of whom he calls “Tita.” Playdays for kids and community bazaars are also frequent. It always brings him joy to see moms and dads watching their kids running around. You can truly build a family here.
Banchetto nights are the best. As he is not a skilled cook, he eagerly awaits this monthly gathering where residents sell homemade food while being serenaded by singers.
He also joins programs where the residents can donate blood, plant trees, and participate in other community initiatives.
Each time he steps into the lobby, exchanges greetings with the security guards, or chats with neighbors, he feels a deep sense of belonging. These small moments of connection and contentment reinforce his belief that he has found not just a house but a home.
Feeling part of a community trumps everything. A condo strategically located right along EDSA but doesn’t have a thriving community for residents is not a home but just a house. A condo with the most luxurious lobbies and patios but void of a community is a hotel.
The sense of community, the well-thought-out amenities, and the feeling of security make DMCI’s Home Communities more than just a place to live; it’s a place where life happens, friendships are formed, memories are made and tomorrow becomes present.
About the Author:
Jordan B. Berto is a 29 year old resident of Prisma. He is a Radiologic Technology graduate hailing from Baguio City. He currently works as a Unit Manager in the field of Finance/Insurance.