Cebu-based AppleOne reshaping the landscape in Visayas, Mindanao (2025)

MANILA, Philippines – Three decades ago, enterprising couple Ray and Venus Manigsaca, who are both engineers, dreamt of building a real estate powerhouse and helping to reshape the landscape in Cebu.

They founded their construction company called Ven Ray in 1993, then later on made a bold move to diversify into real estate by using their earnings from the construction business. A small hotel and a mixed-use development were among their first projects.

In 2010, they built prominent structures, such as the AppleOne Equicom Tower, a 17-story mixed-use development offering residential units on top of commercial units. Three years later, the husband-and-wife tandem introduced Apple Banawa Heights, offering private cluster living: a group of stand-alone buildings with separate entrances and porches.

Partnering with the International Working Group chain of Regus Centers expanded their portfolio by providing dynamic shared spaces in key urban areas in Visayas and Mindanao.

Betting on rising consumer affluence

AppleOne Group has ventured into the luxury segment through Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, a 261-room hotel and resort that opened its doors in 2022, alongside The Residences, a 22-story condominium development within the resort.

“Our breakthrough came when we recognized Mactan as a destination ready for more elevated resort experiences, especially in the luxury segment. Driven by our affinity for the Sheraton brand and its global reputation for excellence, we saw the perfect opportunity to bring an international standard of hospitality in Cebu,” says Ray, president and CEO of AppleOne Group.

The Zamboanga native adds that AppleOne’s strategic step to develop more high-end properties “helped enhance Cebu’s tourism landscape.”

This year, they are set to open the Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mactan.

“We started attracting more projects and collaborations, and we responded by expanding and upskilling our team, refining our processes and forming strategic collaborations to support rapid growth in Cebu and outside,” he adds.

Being a homegrown property developer, he says, is not without any hiccups. But he and his wife have a laser-like focus on their goals.

“Staying focused on the goal and being committed is crucial in getting things accomplished, regardless of the risks. Another is staying committed to the company’s core values, and for AppleOne, this means elevating the lives of the communities we are in,” he adds.

From Visayas to Mindanao

His foresight led to the timely prepandemic investment in the health-care sector through AppleOne Medical Group (AMG), paving the way for the group to grow roots in Mindanao.

In 2023, AMG relaunched Brokenshire Hospital in Davao. Last year, AMG partnered with Singapore Diagnostics to create a state-of-the-art medical laboratory in the VisayasMed Hospital, an integrated medical complex in Cebu.

READ: AppleOne’s hospitality arm eyes expansion in Visayas and Mindanao

Recognizing Ray’s contribution to business, education and community development, the Philippine Christian University (PCU) recently conferred on him a doctor of humanities (honoris causa).

The self-made entrepreneur also addressed PCU’s Class of 2025, delivering a moving message on leadership, perseverance and success.

He regaled the students by sharing how he had built his company from the ground up, and the lessons that helped him navigate his journey from humble beginnings.

“I was not a straight A student sitting in the front row, always eager to raise my hand. I wasn’t the loudest in the room. But I was always observing, listening and learning.”

He recounts the beginning of his journey as a salesman on the lookout for the next big project. Instead of focusing on quick wins, he built his extensive knowledge by observing others, understanding business fundamentals and treating every challenge as an opportunity to grow.

“Take calculated risks; growth happens outside your comfort zone,” Ray tells the graduating class.

Off to the big league

Ray believes that success doesn’t come from waiting for the “perfect” moment but from stepping out of one’s comfort zone, taking risks and acting on opportunities with careful planning and preparation.

He emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships. “It’s not just about what you know, but how you treat people and the genuine connections you make.”

Now, AppleOne Group has grown to be the seventh-leading developer in the country, based on the recent Philippine Property Market Report by Leechiu Property Consultants.

The company that started out with husband and wife as its two main employees now has a staff of more than 5,000.

The real estate company is now handling multiple large-scale projects, such as the upcoming JW Marriott Panglao Island Resort & Residences in Bohol and the Radisson Blu Residences in Cagayan de Oro. It is also set to open the Mahi Center, an all-in-one business and lifestyle hub located near Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

As a seasoned business leader, Ray encourages young professionals to respect everyone they encounter, from interns to executives, and to seek guidance from experienced mentors. “Business is not just about making deals; it’s about making a positive impact,” he adds.

In closing, he tells future leaders to bear in mind that businesses should not only generate profits but also serve as a purposive force in communities.

“The world is waiting for you, and I have no doubt you will leave a lasting impact. Take the risk, keep learning and most of all—serve others. No matter where you start, your success is built on the choices you make today.”