Shang Residences at Wack Wack: A homage to history

This article was initially featured in the Inquirer Mobile App on June 17, 2023 authored by Ar. Vittoria Mawis-Aliston.

What is Wack Wack to you?

If you think of it immediately as a place of exclusive subdivisions, a shopping mecca, or a bustling office district, you only know half of its story.

Wack Wack plays an important part in our country’s history. In particular, the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club bore witness to numerous important events that involved key players in our nation’s story.

At the same time, it serves as testament to our passion for outdoor sport. The area features a lush green landscape and a strategic location—a rare combination in today’s times. Today, Wack Wack is a gem that serves as a sanctuary in the middle of the city—one that could actually be your future home, if you seize the opportunity to live right next to the golf course greens.

Wack Wack in a nutshell

Named after the sounds of the crows in the area, Wack Wack is situated in Mandaluyong City.

The place as we know it today was built around the historical golf course, which was established by an American named William James Shaw in 1930. Shaw sought to have the world-class golf course built after a Filipino named Larry Montes was discriminated in another country club. Montes won the 1929 Philippine Open Tournament but was not allowed to celebrate his win with other golfers due to his race and status as a self-taught caddy.

The Wack Wack Golf and Country Club became the symbol of a new era when it sought to welcome all golfers regardless of race or social status. The East Course became its first 18-hole course, which was soon followed by another 18-hole set called the West Course. The club became a popular hangout among locals and foreigners alike, with the passionate Shaw personally attending to guests until his passing. Right before his death, he bequeathed another 27 ha of land to be added to his beloved country club.

It also hosted the 1977 World Cup, as well as some of old Manila’s most prominent figures during their leisure time, such as former President Manuel Quezon, Senator Vicente Madrigal and Dr. Jose P. Laurel among others. In fact, Dr. Laurel survived an assassination attempt right on the golf course in 1943 after being shot at while playing. Thankfully, his golfing buddies rushed him quickly to the hospital where he was able to recuperate from his wounds.

More than a social club or a sports venue, the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club continues to serve as testament to the glorious days of old Manila. Its East and West Courses are meticulously preserved, not only for the benefit of golfers but also for the natural fauna and nearby residents of Mandaluyong. Being able to live next to this historical site would be a priceless experience that anyone would definitely enjoy.

Thankfully, an upcoming project will soon allow us to fully appreciate Wack Wack in all of its splendor.

A resort in the city

Rising right next to the country club is a resort-inspired residential building that will soon add to the exciting opportunities in Wack Wack.

Developed by Shang Properties Inc. (SPI), a leader in luxury real estate in the Philippines, Shang Residences at Wack Wack is set to showcase the best features of the immediate area. Offering a range of exclusive condominium units, the project will allow future inhabitants to view the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club and the rest of Manila’s skyline in the comfort of their own exceptional homes.

Shang Residences at Wack Wack offers one-, two- and three-bedroom units, all fitted with high-quality finishes and architectural elements. The floor-to-ceiling windows and generous spaces will allow residents to enjoy natural light and ventilation—a must in postpandemic times.

Exclusive amenities put your health and well-being at the forefront. Residents can enjoy a relaxing dip in an outdoor pool, a bonding session with friends in the open pavilion or an immersive experience in the mini theater. Besides these areas, the amenity floor will also offer a billiard room, a fitness center, sauna and steam rooms, children’s play areas and several function rooms. Coupled with 24-hour security services and high-end building systems, one can expect to be immersed in a lush resort setting inside Shang Residences at Wack Wack.

History and prominenceThe building pays homage to the history and prominence of Wack Wack as a whole. It highlights the beauty of the adjacent country club by providing additional greenery and allowing people to see it from a view from above. It also complements the function of the country club by providing a venue for people to unwind after a fulfilling day of golf and socialization.

Recognizing the legacy of its famous neighbor, Shang Residences at Wack Wack celebrates our country’s history while showcasing future possibilities with its exceptional provisions and world-class services. It perfectly captures the essence of Wack Wack as many of us see it—nature-filled, inspiring and enjoyable any time of the day.

Currently at the topping-off stage, Shang Residences at Wack Wack will soon stand tall in Mandaluyong as a testament to history and to the future.

Sources:www.shangrila-properties.com; Gopal, Lou. “Wack Wack Golf & Country Club.” Manila Nostalgia Blog. Created 2015 May 28. Accessed. 2023 June 15. http://www.lougopal.com

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