The Ateneo Housing Project
The Ateneo de Manila University Housing project was launched in early 2003 and had its first turn over the year after. The subdivision was called Ateneoville, which is located in Nangka, Marikina. The location of the village was chosen based on the consideration of its proximity to the University to ensure that the faculty members who would be residing in the subdivision would not have to allocate a large amount of their salary for public transportation when travelling to and from the Ateneo. In addition, the village is close to supermarkets such as Puregold and the Lilac Variety Store, which means that employees would be able to purchase essential items for themselves and their own families whenever needed.
The subdivision measures 3.4 hectares net of 3,500 eroded area. Out of the 3.4 hectares, 65 percent or 2.2 hectares have been allocated for residential units. The University also assigned a portion of the total area for open areas such as parks and playgrounds that would amount to 2,410 sqm around the vicinity in order to provide areas for outdoor and recreational activities, thus promoting physical and mental health amongst employees. Each housing unit has an average lot size of 112 sqm and the subdivision plan comprises a mix of either one-storey or two-story units that faculty members could choose from based on their affordability and preferences.
Those who helped in making the project a reality put their excitement on display as they commemorated the ground blessing ceremony for the latest batch of eligible owners last April 6th 2019. The celebration was spearheaded by former President of the Ateneo de Manila University, Father Jose Ramon Villarin.