Empire East has been at the forefront of middle-income residential development in the Philippines since 1994, offering horizontal and mid-to-high-rise communities tailored to the aspirations of Filipino homebuyers. Originally a spin-off from Megaworld, which focuses on the luxury segment, Empire East carved its niche by democratizing homeownership. It introduced flexible payment terms and the Zero Down Payment scheme during the Asian Financial Crisis, making it easier for Filipinos to own homes despite economic uncertainties. The company has also led the way in developing innovative residential concepts that cater to the evolving lifestyles of its customers.
Leadership with a Vision
At the helm of Empire East is its President and Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Charlemagne Yu, whose leadership is as forward-thinking as the company’s developments. A law graduate from the University of the Philippines with a master’s degree from the University of London, Yu was not only academically accomplished but also socially active, advocating for minority rights alongside his peers. His deep-rooted belief in the right to shelter extends beyond his corporate role—he serves as President of the El Nido Foundation, which focuses on the conservation and sustainability of Palawan, and sits on the board of the Culion Foundation, dedicated to improving the quality of life of Filipinos.
Yu’s leadership philosophy is grounded in personal involvement and presence. He firmly believes that Filipinos need leadership by example, a principle he practices by keeping his office doors open to employees who wish to voice their concerns. He takes this commitment further by immersing himself in the realities of his workforce. Recalling a pivotal experience, he shares how he once lived, ate, and worked alongside construction laborers on one of Empire East’s house-and-lot developments. That firsthand experience deepened his understanding of their needs, driving him to be more hands-on in delivering solutions that benefit both employees and homebuyers.
Inspired by Excellence
Yu looks up to Empire East Land Holdings, Inc. Chairman Dr. Andrew L. Tan as a guiding influence. He admires Tan’s belief in empowering people and entrusting leadership to capable individuals. “Dr. Tan claims he could not have been the owner of huge businesses today if not for the trust he placed in the people he chose to lead alongside him. That, together with a passion for vision and an excellent command for making things done, is the work of a great leader,” Yu reflects.
This philosophy of trust, innovation, and hands-on leadership continues to shape Empire East’s trajectory as it builds communities that not only provide homes but enrich lives across the Philippines.
