Project Title & Location
DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR TAGAYTAY HIGHLANDS GOLF AND COUNTRY ESTATES
Tagaytay City

Client
TAGAYTAY HIGHLANDS CORPORATION

BELLE RESOURCES CORPORATION

Project Completion
1990

Associated Firms
Richard A. Bigler, Golf Course Architect
Comprehensive Design Systems, Inc.
Geotesting (Int'l) Inc.
Rebano, Inc., Surveyors

Services Provided
- Master Planning
- Land Use and Road Layouts

Despite potential hazards and the scarcity of potable water in the site; even if the terrain is rugged and the volcanic tuffaceous grounds are erodable when exposed to the elements, still people go to the highlands. The reasons are numerous. But for Tagaytay Highlands it is for the scenic beauty of Taal Vocano and its lake, the mild climate in the area and the temptation to stay longer because of its facilities.

The area is full of facilities of the first order, mostly catering to the business executives of Metropolitan Manila and Calabar. Key to the plan formulation are the considerations for development thresholds and measures for maximizing values, primarily scenic view. Accessibility is well-articulated. It is made convenient with movements along value-adding points--of-interests. Domestic water comes from the Taal lakeshore at Talisay. Water is conveyed up the slopes through a series of pump stations.

Locationally, the site is divided into three main zones. Topside is where the visitors to the place are welcomed. The social facilities and golf clubhouse are located here. It is also the take-off point for the cable way on its trip down to Bottomside, where the recreational complex is located. The third zone is the main attraction of Tagaytay Highlands: an 18-hole golf course.

Steep-slope housing and residential terraces comprise the community. Building bulk and the advantages of views are guiding factors in determining whether the development exudes a feeling of tightness or openness.