Latest news with #SpecialInvestor'sResidentVisa
GMA Network
29-07-2025
- Politics
- GMA Network
NBI arrests Chinese allegedly posing as Filipina, says she is another 'Alice Guo'
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Tuesday announced the arrest of a Chinese who was allegedly misrepresenting herself as a Filipina upon her arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), dubbing her as another 'Alice Guo.' According to the NBI, the woman arrived from Guangdong, China on July 13. The operation stemmed from an intelligence report of a Chinese national who was allegedly using a Filipino name for her business transactions. Using her Filipino name, the NBI said she was able to secure a Philippine passport and was also able to establish several companies. However, verification with the Bureau of Investment showed that she only had a Special Investor's Resident Visa. The NBI also conducted examinations on the fingerprints of their NBI clearance forms, which showed that the fingerprints were identical. Due to this, the Bureau of Immigration has filed a complaint against the woman for violation of the Immigration law, specifically misrepresentation as a Filipino. She is also facing a complaint for violating the Limitations and Conditions of Stay as well as Undesirability. Aside from this, the NBI filed a case against her for violation of the Philippine Passport Act of 1996 with the Prosecutor's Office of Taguig City. 'Director Santiago assures that the NBI will delve deeper into what may be another 'Alice Guo' story,' the NBI said in a statement. Dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo's identity came into question after the raid on the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub located in her former municipality as well as Senate inquiries into POGOs. The NBI later said that Alice Guo and Chinese passport holder Guo Hua Ping have the same fingerprints. Among her cases, Guo is facing a quo warranto petition with a Manila court, as well as a petition to cancel her birth certificate with a Tarlac court. —KG, GMA Integrated News
Business Wire
07-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Manila Emerges as a Global Wealth Hub: Nest Seekers International Capitalizes on Surge with Banyan Tree Manila Bay
MANILA, Philippines--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As economic volatility reshapes global real estate, the Philippines is quietly becoming a magnet for the world's wealthiest investors. Renowned for its natural beauty and cultural warmth, the country now shines for its compelling financial advantages: tax efficiency, accessible residency options, and a luxury real estate market that remains undervalued compared to global counterparts. In 2023, Manila led the world in luxury price growth with a 26.3% increase—outpacing cities like Dubai and the Bahamas (per Mansion Global). The momentum continued into 2024 with another 17.9% jump, placing it among the top global markets. 'We're seeing a migration of capital to the Philippines that mirrors Dubai's rise a decade ago,' says Regalado. 'Manila offers a rare blend: world-class properties, strong rental yields, and a government that welcomes foreign investment." Share Nest Seekers International, a premier luxury brokerage behind some of the world's most exclusive real estate transactions, is leading this transformation. Andy Regalado, Regional Director for Southeast Asia, is leading global marketing and sales for Banyan Tree Manila Bay, Manila's pinnacle luxury development. 'We're seeing a migration of capital to the Philippines that mirrors Dubai's rise a decade ago,' says Regalado. 'Manila offers a rare blend: world-class properties, strong rental yields, a government that welcomes foreign investment, and a transparent legal system for investors.' Why Wealth Is Flowing to the Philippines The Philippines' appeal starts with its tax efficiency. Under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act, corporate income tax for registered businesses is a competitive 20%, among the lowest in Asia. Foreign investors enjoy income tax holidays, exemptions from local taxes, and streamlined approvals through 19 Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) nationwide. As an English-speaking country with a transparent legal system, the Philippines offers a familiar and accessible environment for global investors navigating business or real estate opportunities. Residency programs further sweeten the deal. A $75,000 investment secures a Special Investor's Resident Visa (SIRV), offering indefinite stay, multiple-entry privileges, and a pathway to naturalization. 'For global citizens, it's about where your money thrives,' says Regalado. 'The Philippines makes it seamless to establish financial roots, whether for business expansion or a new lifestyle hub.' Luxury with Purpose Banyan Tree Manila Bay is at the heart of this wave of wealth, with its record-breaking sales underscoring Manila's rise as a global ultra-luxury hotspot. All penthouse units, each priced above ₱1 billion (approximately $17 million USD)—sold out in under six months from launch, setting a new benchmark for the Philippines' luxury real estate market. Developed under the prestigious Banyan Tree brand, part of the globally renowned Banyan Group, this ultra-luxury integrated development in the heart of Manila combines a world-class hotel, signature luxury residences, and high-end retail — offering a rare blend of elegance, lifestyle, and convenience. Beyond exquisite design, it offers exclusive wellness amenities, such as the world-renowned, multi-awarded Banyan Tree Spa, therapeutic onsen pools, and curated wellness programs. Aligned with Metro Manila's green transformation—where 61% of new builds are projected to be eco-certified by 2025—the project prioritizes sustainable, forward-thinking design. 'Manila's become a magnet for the world's wealthy, and it's easy to see why,' says Regalado. 'With incredible tax incentives, residency that's easy to secure, and places like Banyan Tree Manila Bay with next-level wellness and green design, it's everything you need to live well and invest smart in a city that's taking off.' A Market Poised for Growth The unprecedented sell-out of Banyan Tree Manila Bay's ₱1 billion penthouses reflects booming confidence in Manila's luxury real estate, even amidst global market fluctuations. Properties that would command $20–30 million in the US, Paris, or Singapore are often priced below $5 million here, offering unmatched value. Combined with strong rental yields and rising appreciation, the Philippines remains a high-upside, low-barrier investment zone for ultra-high-net-worth individuals. 'Manila's luxury market is still in its early growth phase,' notes Regalado, 'and the rapid success of Banyan Tree Manila Bay proves now is the ideal time to invest.'
