How Banks are Leading the Upgrade of the Makati Skyline

Overview

• How Bank Developments Are Transforming the Makati Skyline
• What Does This Mean for Office Space in Makati?
• Why Is Commercial Space Makati Becoming Scarce?
• How Are Quality and Design Changing Tenant Expectations?
• How Can Businesses Secure the Right Office Space?
• When Is the Best Time to Lease in Makati?
• Ready to Secure Your Place in the Changing Skyline?

Makati continues to grow as the financial heart of Metro Manila, with major banks investing in new headquarters and redeveloping landmark towers. These developments are reshaping the skyline and changing the dynamics of office space availability, creating both opportunities and challenges for businesses seeking quality locations.

Companies face critical questions: How will these bank-led projects affect the availability and cost of commercial space in Makati? What strategies can businesses use to secure prime office locations amid growing competition? Understanding these shifts is essential for making informed leasing decisions and maintaining a strong presence in this dynamic business district.

How Bank Developments Are Transforming the Makati Skyline

The skyline of Makati is evolving rapidly. It is no longer just a symbol of finance district prestige, but a reflection of shifting demand, supply constraints, and changing market dynamics driven by the banking sector.

Key Bank Developments in Makati:

China Bank Makati Tower

• 32-storey sustainable office complex
• Over 76,000 square meters of floor area
• Underground parking
• Completion expected in 2028

BPI New Headquarters

• 45-storey tower with89,000 square meters of gross floor area
• Modern design with focus on sustainability and employee wellness
• Completion scheduled for 2029

BDO Unibank Headquarters Redevelopment

• Major renovation and expansion of existing head office
• Integration of modern office facilities and energy-efficient systems
• Expected to improve overall building quality and usability

These projects go beyond corporate branding. They represent long-term confidence in Makati as the country’s premier business district and are reshaping the availability and quality of office space in Makati.

What Does This Mean for Office Space in Makati?

The impact of these bank-led developments is evident in leasing trends. As of the first quarter of 2025, vacancy rates in Makati CBD fell to 7.2 percent, down from 10.5 percent in 2022, and well below the broader Metro Manila average of nearly 20 percent. Projections indicate vacancy could decrease further to 5.5 percent by 2026. During the same period, demand for new office space reached238,000 square meters.

For businesses seeking office space in Makati, this indicates a tightening market. High-demand locations may have fewer options, and companies may need to act quickly to secure suitable spaces.

Why Is Commercial Space Makati Becoming Scarce?

Many of the new bank-owned towers will primarily serve their parent corporations. As a result, the amount of commercial space in Makati available for lease is limited. Even when space becomes available, competition is expected to be intense, which could drive up rents and reduce room for negotiation.

Smaller firms, startups, or companies looking for flexible lease conditions may find it increasingly challenging to secure premium locations. These market dynamics emphasize the need for strategic planning when searching for metro Manila office for lease.

How Are Quality and Design Changing Tenant Expectations?

Modern office towers prioritize sustainability, energy efficiency, and workplace wellness. Older buildings are being renovated or replaced to meet these standards. For tenants, this trend means higher expectations and a clear distinction between older office buildings and new landmark developments. Companies seeking office space in Makati should consider these factors when evaluating potential locations.

How Can Businesses Secure the Right Office Space?

Navigating this competitive landscape requires a knowledgeable real estate partner. Weaver Group, with deep expertise in commercial space Makati and metro Manila office for lease, can help businesses identify suitable buildings, negotiate lease terms, and secure spaces aligned with their operational and financial goals.

When Is the Best Time to Lease in Makati?

Timing is critical. With vacancy rates falling and new bank headquarters occupying a significant portion of the market, the window to secure desirable office space under favorable terms is narrowing. Businesses that act promptly will gain access to premium spaces while avoiding high rental pressures.

Ready to Secure Your Place in the Changing Skyline?

As Makati’s skyline evolves with new bank-led developments, securing the right office space has never been more important. With vacancy rates declining and premium commercial space in Makati becoming increasingly limited, businesses that act early will have a competitive advantage in choosing locations that support growth, brand image, and operational efficiency.

Whether you are looking for modern office space in Makati, flexible commercial space Makati, or a strategic metro Manila office for lease, Weaver Group’s office leasing expertise ensures your company can access the best options before they are fully occupied. Our team guides you through every step, from identifying ideal locations and evaluating building quality to negotiating lease terms tailored to your business needs.

Partner with Weaver Group today to secure a space that aligns with your vision and positions your business at the heart of Metro Manila’s dynamic business district. Call us at 0917-193-2837(0917-1-WEAVER) to explore premier leasing opportunities and claim your place in the changing Makati skyline.

Sources: Collier Philippines