Building lifescapes, leaving legacies: Ar. Antonio V. Turalba, Jr. and the vision behind Active Group

“When you build with purpose, the structures endure. But when you build with people and values in mind, the legacy lives on.” These words from Architect Antonio V. Turalba, Jr., President and CEO of the Active Group of Companies, echo the heart of a company that has quietly shaped the Philippine real estate industry with integrity, innovation, and enduring relevance.

Founded in 1970 as Turalba and Associates, the Active Group of Companies has grown into a fully integrated real estate powerhouse—spanning architecture, property planning, construction, development, and marketing. But beyond its scope and scale lies a philosophy rooted in purpose. “We don’t just build structures,” says Ar. Turalba. “We shape environments that allow people to live well, connect meaningfully, and grow fully.”

This mindset is reflected in the Group’s signature framework—the 6 Active Life Environments: Business, Architecture, Environment, Art, Culture, and Play. “These lifescapes are not just ideas we admire,” he explains. “They are actively integrated into our development process. We aim for each project to reflect a balance of all six, ensuring our spaces are purposeful, dynamic, and responsive to the way people live, work, and grow”​.

Architect Antonio V. Turalba, Jr., President and CEO of the Active Group of Companies

From the Ground Up: A Humanized Approach

Since its beginnings in social housing, Active Group has been dedicated to elevating the Filipino experience through design that is as functional as it is soulful. “By placing people and the environment at the heart of our designs, we create developments that are not only aesthetically considered but built for long-term relevance and value,” he adds. “We believe in creating spaces that contribute meaningfully to communities and remain adaptable over time”​.

This approach continues today in flagship developments like Mozzafiato and Centrale, which each represent the Group’s vision in unique ways.

A Lakeside Dream: Mozzafiato, Balete

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Taal Lake, Mozzafiato is a lakeside residential community in Balete, Batangas that captures the essence of modern luxury and quiet retreat. “Mozzafiato is about more than real estate,” Ar. Turalba shares. “It’s about lakeside living that reconnects people with nature, with themselves, and with each other.”

With its exclusive marina, boat club, clubhouse, and scenic trails, Mozzafiato offers a curated lifestyle for residents who crave adventure and tranquility in equal measure. Just over an hour from Manila, it’s a haven for those who want a break from the rush without sacrificing access to the city.

At the Heart of Bacolod: Centrale

Meanwhile, in Bacolod City, Centrale is setting a new standard for suburban life. Located in Brgy. Mandalagan, the 48-hectare development champions spacious living—offering residential lots ranging from 300 to 953 square meters, designed around wellness and community.

“Centrale was designed to reflect the Bacolod lifestyle,” Turalba explains. “It’s relaxed, connected, and culturally rich. We wanted to give families room to breathe, move, and grow.”

Amenities like a covered sports pavilion, multi-purpose hall, landscaped parks, and “a park on every block” ensure that leisure, fitness, and interaction are seamlessly woven into daily life. “It’s not just about building homes—it’s about creating neighborhoods where people feel they belong,” he says.

A Legacy for the Next 50 Years

As the Active Group looks to the future, its mission remains deeply rooted in values that have withstood decades of change. “In the next 50 years, we envision Active Group growing with purpose—developing thoughtful, people-centered spaces that reflect both innovation and care,” Ar. Turalba shares. “Our goal is to shape environments that enhance the way people live, work, and connect, while staying true to the values that matter most”​.

Central to that is the belief that real estate can empower individuals. “At the heart of what we do is a commitment to providing wealth through home equity and building communities that last,” he says. “We believe well-designed spaces can open doors—not just to better living, but to real opportunities for growth, stability, and connection”​.

Leading with Excellence

Behind this enduring legacy is a simple but powerful principle. “One of the most important values we uphold is our Passion for Excellence,” he says. “It’s more than just doing things well—it’s about acting with integrity, being intentional in our work, and continuously striving to improve”​.

His leadership is marked not just by vision, but by trust in people. “We believe that when people feel trusted and inspired, they do their best work. That’s why we cultivate a workplace where curiosity is encouraged, growth is supported, and every team member feels part of something meaningful.”

As the industry evolves, Ar. Turalba and the Active Group remain anchored by purpose. “We’ve seen how real estate has moved beyond just providing shelter,” he reflects. “It’s now a force that shapes lifestyles, livelihoods, and legacies.”

And that is the true blueprint of the Active Group: not just building for today, but creating lifescapes that stand the test of time.

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