Forbes Estates Lipa grows a community around nature

Forbes Estates Lipa is taking shape as a low-density community where trees and open spaces are being planned into the development from the outset, giving future residents a setting that brings nature closer to everyday living.

Located in Lipa, Batangas, the 21-hectare residential enclave of RLC Residences recently held its first official on-site activity, a tree-planting program that saw 73 trees planted across the property. Five species were selected for the site—banaba, siar, Palawan cherry, dita and bani—chosen for their resilience, suitability to the area and contribution to local biodiversity.

The initiative offers an early glimpse of how Forbes Estates Lipa is being developed, with attention given not only to the homes but also to the spaces surrounding them. As the trees grow, they are expected to provide shade and add more inviting areas for residents to walk, rest and spend time outdoors.

The activity was led by Teddy V. Bernas, senior vice president and business unit general manager of RLC Residences, and Dan Carlo Torres, head of marketing at RLC Residences.

Bernas and Torres planted trees alongside their children and participating families, turning the activity into an occasion that brought together the developer, its sales partners and members of the nearby community.

“Buying a home is a long-term decision, and the same principle applies to caring for the environment,” said Torres. “The trees planted today will take years to mature, but their benefits can be enjoyed for decades by the families who will eventually call Forbes Estates Lipa home.”

For RLC Residences, the effort forms part of a broader approach to shaping communities where outdoor spaces and natural features are considered alongside residential areas. At Forbes Estates Lipa, the trees planted at the start of the project will become part of the landscape as the community develops.

Over time, the 73 trees will become part of the Forbes Estates Lipa landscape, adding shade, character and outdoor spaces to a community that is still in the early stages of taking shape.

The article was originally published in Manila Standard.

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