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Safer and Better Normal: What’s the best workspace layout in a post-pandemic world?

The pandemic has forever changed the way people live and work. As the whole world continues to adapt to a safer, healthier, and better normal, the concept of effective and efficient workspace layouts has been challenged to incorporate health and well-being for its tenants.

As many companies allow a more flexible working arrangement, workplace strategists suggest maximizing the office space as a venue for socialization and collaboration without compromising the safety of its occupants.

Open Floor Layouts—with Restrictions

While some argue that the trend toward an open floor workplace design will begin to fade due to the threats of the virus, the idea of “openness” in the office can still be created through creating non-hierarchical spaces, a variety of flexible work environments, and space planning that encourages the sharing of ideas. An open office is still the best way to foster social relationships and open opportunities to build teamwork between colleagues. Workplace strategists, however, reiterated the importance of implementing physical and social distancing measures to protect employees from contracting the virus.

Layout 1: Open Office – Workstations are positioned in various configurations, some touching, others clustered in various sizes of work zones. Everyone in the office sits together, including managers, and discussions flowing freely across the open space.

Layout 2: Cellular Office – In this popular layout, the entire office space is divided into individual spaces (or cubicles) arranged for employees to each have private spaces. It provides a focused work environment and lends well to a systematization of office operations. Ceiling studs, windows, doors, or partitions are used to create individual spaces.

Layout 3: Co-working – Working without designated workspaces. You can assign desks to workers based on their assigned job. This arrangement can be ideal for promoting social interaction among staff members.

Workplace strategists added that a strict implementation of social and physical distancing guidelines in the workplace should be the key in implementing a well-balanced office for employees returning to work in the new normal. Office should still be an integral part of any business and its essence remains on the space it provides for employees’ mental, physical, emotional, and social needs while at work.

RELATED: The Future of Workplace: Contactless features and smart technology

Smart and Contactless Workplaces

Many businesses adapt to the new normal by incorporating innovation and advanced technology in the office. Workspaces are slowly transitioning to become contactless or low-touch spaces to reduce the chances of cross-infection among colleagues. Smart offices are workspaces that utilize automated processes to enhance building operations, from air conditioning and heating, lighting, and security.

Building developers and commercial institutions should consider the benefits of new advancements in technology such as voice or motion-activated technology in office spaces and common areas like elevators, copy rooms, restrooms, and meeting rooms.

Future-forward commercial establishments such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, also integrate advanced technology to provide a smart and healthy workplace for its tenants and occupiers. JEG Tower @ One Acacia utilizes the MERV-13 air filters and Fresh Air System for optimal indoor air quality, which is one of the more crucial aspects of being in an enclosed space amid the pandemic. The tower also uses the Fresh Air System that ensures the comfort of its tenants. According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), building occupants with little or no access to fresh air end up being more exposed to pollutants indoors compared to when they go outdoors. HVAC systems tend to circulate and recycle old air rather than drawing new and fresh air from the outside.

READ MORE: Why JEG Tower is the perfect new normal workplace

Premium-grade office developments, such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, are pivoting their office re-entry strategies and offering safer and healthier spaces for businesses and tenants. This 22-storey green commercial development in Metro Cebu uplifts the health and wellness of its tenants. Committed to revolutionizing work and life balance, the building has designed office spaces to maximize the use of natural daylight, allow better indoor air quality in all work and common spaces, and organize initiatives to encourage healthier living for everyone.

Want to learn more about JEG Tower @ One Acacia? Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884. For inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

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Recovery Roadmap: Cebu City accelerates vaccination, relaxes entry protocol

The Cebu City government is eyeing to vaccinate at least 70 percent of its population by yearend, the city health office said. Averaging a total of 2,500 inoculations per day, the local government is hopeful that this target is attainable by December 2021.

After the city’s temporary suspension of inoculation due to the lack of supply, Cebu City resumed its vaccine rollout for its residents last Thursday, July 8. Local health data also showed that as of July 3. 277,514 residents have already registered to be vaccinated.

“We are praying for a fair allocation of vaccines for Cebu City. We have one million population. Our target is to vaccinate 700,000 of the residents, then we need more doses inasmuch as we don’t want to open, then close and open again our vaccination sites,” Dr. Jeffrey Ibones, head of the Cebu City Health Office said to the media.

Cebu City has also been prioritizing the opening of more vaccination sites to accommodate more individuals. Ibones stated that another vaccination site opened last July 2 in the mountain barangay of Cambinocot.

For other Cebu City vaccination sites, click here. 

Easing Travel Requirements

Following the decision of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Cebu City is considering to ease its tourist entry requirements for fully vaccinated individuals. According to the resolution, those who have already received two doses of their COVID-19 vaccine are no longer required to present a negative RT-PCR test result upon entry to the island.

Local government officials have endorsed this domestic travel policy to Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella for final approval and implementation. Cebu City Councilor Joel Garganera, deputy chief implementer of the city’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC), added that loosening the requirements for domestic travelers could be seen as an “incentive,” and it could encourage people to register for vaccination as they would no longer have to complete the requirements when they decide to travel to other parts of the country.

As restrictions begin to relax and more residents get vaccinated, local businesses are optimistic for the speedy recovery of Cebu City’s economy, especially in the real estate sector. More premium-grade office developments, such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, are pivoting their office re-entry strategies and offering safer and healthier spaces for businesses and tenants who want to take the opportunity to invest in Metro Cebu.

READ MORE: Why JEG Tower is the perfect new normal workplace

Want to discuss more business opportunities in Cebu City? Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884. For inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

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Key steps in finding the best retail space in Cebu

Cebu City has quickly become the economic center of the province and the whole Visayan region. With its bustling commercial profile, growing population of a consumer market, and a huge influx of local and international tourists, having a retail space in Metro Cebu is an attractive business opportunity for many Cebuanos.

Finding the best retail space in Cebu may be intimidating for some. Similar to choosing the ideal office location, deciding where to locate your business can be a major impact on your public presence, foot traffic, and revenue among others. Here are some key steps in finding the best retail space for your business in Cebu:

Set your Size Requirement

Hunting for a retail space in Metro Cebu should start on knowing what your business needs, especially the size you need to operate. It will also be beneficial to consider options that have provisions for expansion in the future.

Consider the Best Location

Location is always the top priority when it comes to choosing a commercial space for business. However, the best retail location in Cebu for your business should depend on more considerations such as the type of goods you sell, your target market, accessibility, and competition. The location can also determine other operational expenditures in the long run.

Accessibility for Employees and Clients

Your retail business’ location should be accessible not only to your clients and target market but also to your employees. Locating in an accessible location can promote a better work-life balance for your employees. Another factor is its proximity to key and other essential establishments.

Cap your Budget

Lease rates should also be one of the most crucial considerations in finding the best retail space for your business in Cebu. Locating in a space that is priced too high can affect your return on investment (ROI) and could put a strain on the business’ sustainability.

Inspect the Site

Before signing your lease, make sure to visit the actual space to learn more about it. Ask your broker about maintenance fees or other concessions you can enjoy if ever you sign as a tenant. It is important to visit the space to make sure that you can make use of it efficiently, make yourself familiar with the neighborhood, and plan for your next business steps.

Named as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is also offering retail spaces for businesses who want to locate in the heart of Metro Cebu. Get in touch with Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 to learn more about our offer.

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Wellness Ratings & The Office: Why it Matters

The global health crisis has undoubtedly highlighted the need for ‘healthier’ and safer buildings and public spaces. Now more than ever, people need a safer and healthier workplace. The ‘new normal’ presents an opportunity for companies to reevaluate the priorities for their employees and tenants and pivot towards a more sustainable approach in commercial real estate in the Philippines.

Driven by the growing consciousness and awareness of the public to the importance of such spaces, there is also an increasing appetite from investors and owners for buildings to implement more holistic measures which improve the spaces they offer to the public.

What is a Building ‘Wellness Rating’?

Wellness ratings aim to measure and recognize public spaces that provide utmost importance to the health and well-being of its tenants. These ratings are certifications that developers and property owners aspire to complete and achieve as a symbol of their commitment to building spaces that put a premium on the public’s welfare, especially in the new normal.

Wellness Ratings in the Philippines

In the Philippines, commercial developments can aim for LEED, BERDE, and WELL certifications to ensure the quality of spaces they construct and offer to the public.

LEED or the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Development is one of the certifications that buildings in the country can apply to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of the building’s occupiers.

Developed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), it is an internationally recognized certification program that provides a third-party verification that a building was designed and built following strategies aimed to underscore the triple bottom line of sustainability: People, Planet, and Profit.

The ‘People’ concept of sustainability highlights the importance of the experience inside the building. It emphasizes how providing an ideal environment for occupants can contribute to their working performance, motivation, happiness, and its overall impacts on public health and society as a whole.

READ MORE: LEED’s Triple Bottomline: How JEG Tower @ One Acacia uplifts People, Planet, and Profit

BERDE, or the Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence, is a tool to assess, measure, monitor, and certify the performance of green building projects in the Philippines. Developed by the Philippine Green Building Council, this rating aims to ensure green buildings perform and follow existing national and local building and environmental laws, regulations, and mandatory standards in the country.

WELL, on the other hand, is a performance-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring features of the built environment that impact human health and wellbeing. Commercial buildings and establishments are evaluated through various elements that contribute and affect holistic well-being of the public including air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

Why is Wellness Important in the Office

Commercial developments and office buildings in the Philippines should aim to provide healthy and safe spaces for their tenants, employees, and occupants. Putting the public’s well-being on top of the priority will not only be a unique feature for an establishment but will also benefit the business in the long run.

Studies show that healthy and happy employees perform better and faster in the workplace, effectively increasing their output and boosting their motivation to work. Healthy workspaces also improve and maintain employee morale, fosters loyalty, and increase employee retention.

Moreover, a company that takes care of their employees by providing healthy and safe workspaces create a better and more ideal brand identity and reputation.

With its vision of Bringing Work to Life, JEG Tower @ One Acacia revolutionizes work and life balance by integrating sustainability and sophistication in its design and operations. Office spaces in this 22-storey commercial tower offer the best working environment, amplified by its unique green features and guided by LEED standards.

Interested to learn more? Connect with Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 to find out how you can locate your business in the best workplace in Cebu City.

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Why JEG Tower is the perfect new normal workplace

Even before the pandemic, JEG Tower @ One Acacia aimed to offer the best workplace in Cebu City. As businesses are more open to going back to the office, this 22-storey premium office building has focused on pivoting the evolving needs of the workplace in the post-lockdown business landscape.

Through the intelligent utilization of technology, sustainable design and construction methods, and integrated and holistic approach to the well-being of its occupiers, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the perfect new normal workplace in the heart of Metro Cebu.

Defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), a healthy post-pandemic workplace should be a balance of occupational health and safety, as well as health promotion efforts and initiatives. According to the international health agency, “a healthy workplace is one in which workers and managers collaborate to use a continual improvement process to protect and promote the health, safety, and well-being of workers and the sustainability of the workplace by considering the following, based on identified needs.”

RELATED: Qualities of a Great Office: Why JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the Best Workplace in Cebu

Optimal Indoor Air Quality & Contactless Technology

JEG Tower @ One Acacia utilizes the MERV-13 air filters and Fresh Air System for optimal indoor air quality. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values or MERV filters that can capture particles in the air from 0.3 and 10 microns (µm). Higher value in MERV ratings leads to better filtration, fewer dust particles, and other airborne contaminants. The tower’s MERV13 filter is one of the highest-grade filters in the industry that promotes an ideal indoor environment and eliminates the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, or fungi.

The tower also uses the Fresh Air System that ensures the comfort of its tenants. According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), building occupants with little or no access to fresh air end up being more exposed to pollutants indoors compared to when they go outdoors. HVAC systems tend to circulate and recycle old air rather than drawing new and fresh air from the outside.

READ MORE: JEG Tower Focus: MERV and Fresh Air System for Optimal Indoor Air Quality

To address one of the most common health and safety concerns in common spaces, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has also integrated contactless and smart technology in all office floors and common areas in the building. Automatic sliding doors have been installed in the main entrance for touchless access. Motion-sensor bathroom fixtures are also made available for tenants to limit contact to surfaces in public areas.

JEG Tower also has stationed hands-free standing and desk temperature scanners to ensure the fitness of each employee or guest entering the premises.

The Destination-Oriented Assignment System (DOAS) elevators do not only manage crowds and limit contact, boost building security, but also assist in easier tracing or monitoring of foot traffic in the building. It is also one of the tower’s unique green and sustainable features as part of its pledge to sustainability and green real estate in Cebu.

Advocates of Holistic Health and Employee Well-being

JEG Tower in Cebu uplifts the health and wellness of its tenants. Committed to revolutionizing work and life balance, the building has designed office spaces to maximize the use of natural daylight, allow better indoor air quality in all work and common spaces, and organize initiatives to encourage healthier living for everyone.

Named as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development in the Philippines, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is committed to providing a workplace that addresses the physiological, mental, and social needs of its employees and occupants.

By following global standards and optimizing building design and operations, it is one of the most ideal locations to work in Cebu City. JEG Tower puts a premium on its tenants’ health while practicing sustainability and energy efficiency.

Locate your business in Cebu City’s newest premium green building. Contact Lorenzo Martin E. Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825–6884. For leasing inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

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Vaccination of ‘economic workers’ to ease rising vacancy in Cebu City offices

After a full year in lockdown, Cebu’s office market has faced challenges in leasing and vacancy but still saw a few bright spots from January to March of 2021.

KMC data show that while Cebu IT Park and the Cebu Fringe continue to log increasing vacancies, Cebu Business Park has observed movement and absorption as BPO locators continue to choose the Visayan capital as the center of economic activity and ideal area of expansion outside Luzon.

According to KMC’s 1Q/2021 Office Briefing, both Cebu IT Park (CITP) and the Cebu Fringe continued to lose tenants, greatly contributing to the recorded 19.2% vacancy rate. Meanwhile, there was a recorded contraction of vacancies in the Cebu Business Park after 16,000 sq m of office space was occupied in the quarter.

Rental rates in CITP and the Cebu Fringe are also on a downward trend as landlords keep up with the increase in vacancies in both areas. On the contrary, office spaces within the Cebu Business Park posted a 0.3% higher rental rate. Average office rental rates in the Cebu Central Business District registered at PHP 577.6 per sq m / month, 2.3% lower than the start of the pandemic a year ago.

DOWNLOAD: KMC Cebu Office Briefing 1Q/2021

Around 117,300 sq m of new office supply is expected to be available before the end of the year. As consequent effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are still felt in the country, short-term demand is forecasted to remain muted and minimal as occupiers fare the new normal. There is, however, a slight improvement in various pre-leasing activities in the Cebu CBD, with the opportunity to occupy fresh spaces at current rates.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is one of the office buildings that are expected to come online in 2021. Being one of the newest premium green buildings and PEZA accredited locations in the Cebu district, the 22-storey tower is expected to uplift the commercial pipeline for local businesses and multinational locators in the Visayan epicenter.

Vaccination of ‘Economic Workers’

As the local government’s vaccination rollout is now open to the A4 priority group (employees reporting to the office), more leasing activity is expected in Cebu City and its business districts in the coming months.

According to the Visayas Vaccination Operations Center (VVOC), a total of 28,661 individuals have already been inoculated with their first dose of the vaccine as of June 10. Of this number, 4,697 have already managed to complete their inoculation schedules.

Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Steven Yu said the business community in Cebu is hopeful that the economic revival in the province will come sooner or later as more people are encouraged to get the vaccine.

“As more A4s get vaccinated, they become our role models/ambassadors which convince anti-vaxxers to become pro-vaxxers. As early as a few days ago, we could see a sea wave of change of heart from people, and they are now willing to be vaccinated because more and more of their friends/relatives had been vaccinated,” Yu said. “The future looks bright, and we need to ensure that we will have sufficient quantities of vaccines coming in regularly,” he added.

Get more relevant, in-depth market insights in Cebu’s central business district in the new normal. Reach out to Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-852-6884. Send us an email at info@kmcmaggroup.com or reach out to us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 to know more about how you can lease JEG Tower @ One Acacia.

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Greener Philippines: Achieving True Sustainability In Real Estate

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, leading property developers in the Philippines such as JEG Development Corporation have envisioned a greener approach to real estate. Apart from achieving premium green certifications such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), achieving true sustainability has been a distinctive feature as more green developments get built.

In the US, more cities are moving toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2025. Improving energy efficiency and sustainability across the current real estate portfolio has been well integrated into the community and urban planning in many countries including the Philippines. The increased demand for better workplaces and sustainable spaces is also due to the remarkable improvement in employee satisfaction.

A US study shows that a 27% increase in satisfaction was reported when individuals are placed inside a healthy building. Using environmentally friendly materials and focusing on indoor air quality have been identified as the key health aspects considered by occupants.

True sustainability goes deeper than having green amenities or features as it can only be achieved through the full-life-cycle approach. According to the Life Cycle Initiative, sustainability should be integrated at all stages of the design and build. Emissions at any stage of designing and construction should be properly tracked to match the claim.

These green considerations must be of vital importance from sourcing or manufacturing materials used to the facilities and amenities placed in the development. The approach also covers the inclusion of green spaces, energy and water efficiency or consumption, and waste management.

Approach On Being Distinctively Green

In the Philippines, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is one of Cebu’s most sustainable estates as it goes beyond the definition of green. Apart from creating premium spaces for work, JEG Development Corporation believes that an occupant-focused and wellbeing-centric approach is impactful on an economic level.

Employing the full-life-cycle approach, the building is created from recyclable construction materials as it utilized steel and cement from coal-fire powerplant waste.

READ MORE: Sustainability Report: How does JEG Tower @ One Acacia contribute to the People, Planet, and Profit?

It also integrated efficiency beyond energy, water, and waste by making sure that it is designed sustainably. Its operable windows prioritized efficiency over aesthetics to provide many key benefits such as optimal indoor air quality by allowing the flow of fresh air and natural light to space.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia has also touched on sustainable transportation by providing ample bike racks and shower rooms for cyclists. They also started an incentivized bike program for JDC employees to encourage fitness and reduce carbon emissions accordingly.

In terms of greenery, the Grade A tower has allocated pocket gardens inside the building and is committed to providing unique outdoor spaces to its occupants. Its groundbreaking green roof will showcase and be home to plants endemic to Cebu.

As with any urban development, JDC has remained steadfast in its pursuit to push for sustainability that does not only provides beautiful spaces but will provide many benefits to its occupants and local communities.

Locate in the greenest and best workplace in Cebu today. Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63)-917-825 6884 for listing inquiries and more information.

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Green growth: Why is Sustainability crucial for Cebu City

Next to Metro Manila, Cebu City is the second most populated area in the Philippines. Being the Visayan capital and the main economic stronghold outside Luzon, Metro Cebu rapidly became urbanized and dense as numerous BPO and multinational companies locate in the city and opened opportunities for locals and residents moving in from neighboring islands and provinces.

As the city’s corporate community expands, more commercial establishments were built and developed, especially in Cebu City’s main business district. However, an in-depth report by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), an independent organization that stimulates the economic progress and world trade, found that in order for the city to  keep  up  with  its  ‘rapid  urban  sprawl’ , sustainable real estate should be pushed in the city to encourage continued economic development while minimizing either negative ‘environmental externalities or the unsustainable consumption of natural resources and environmental assets’.

Sustainability in real estate has long been a standing movement in the industry. As the world became more aware of the importance of promoting health, wellness, and preserving the environment, the call for green real estate was also amplified in the Philippines, especially in Cebu.

Why is there a need for a greener Cebu?

In the same report by OECD, Metro Cebu’s economic steady economic growth and commercial real estate expansion are causing a strain on the other aspects of the city’s development. As mentioned in the report, the growth of Metro Cebu’s urban population has emphasized other potential weak spots in the city including an integrated public transportation system that can contribute to traffic congestion and pollution.

Keeping up with international building and commercial standards, homegrown developer JEG Development Corporation (JDC) advocates green buildings and sustainable real estate to raise the quality of work and office spaces within Cebu City. JEG Tower @ One Acacia is an award-winning commercial development, recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in promoting sustainability and health while complimenting its sophisticated design.

Led by third-generation Cebuano leaders, JDC pursues a more sustainable path as part of their contribution to their family’s legacy and to the green growth of the province. Chief Operating Officer Marko Sarmiento, Brand Manager Ayla Gomez, and Estate and Business Development Manager Stefan Garcia agree that guided by their company values, JDC’s main thrust is to enrich the lives of the communities where their properties are built.

“Integrity guides everything we do, and we are mindful of our impact on the environment and to the future generations of Cebuanos,” Gomez explained.

“We are a young and dynamic player in Cebu’s real estate industry, we’re making our contribution by having a long-term view in developing liveable and sustainable communities,” Sarmiento expressed in a previous interview. “We may be a relatively new player in the industry, but our local roots are strong and deep, which is why we are committed to always uplift Cebu through our properties especially with the many adjustments because of the pandemic,” he added.

Premium Standard in Green Real Estate

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is JDC’s flagship vertical project was the winner of the 2020 PropertyGuru Property Awards Philippines’ Best Green Commercial Development in the country. The 22-storey office and retail tower was also recognized by Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) with a pre-certified Silver rating.

The tower uses green techniques and applies extensive plans for soil erosion, waste management, and air quality. Aiming to create a less polluted environment leads to better public health, which is very crucial in the post-pandemic era.

“By pivoting towards green development, Cebu would be a better place to live, work, and do business in, as this would reduce both pollution and illness by improving the air quality, waste management, and livability of our urban areas,” Garcia shared.

Discover why JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the best place to work in Cebu City. Contact Lorenzo Martin E. Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 to schedule a viewing today!

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Efficiency vs. Aesthetic: Why JEG Tower @ One Acacia has ‘uniquely designed’ windows

Traditional office spaces tend to be constricting boxes of plain gray walls. However, as the idea of the “workplace” evolved to a more ‘human-centric’ approach, trends in office design and construction highlighted the importance of health and wellness. Open layout offices and Biophilic offices became the ideal type of setup. Both are meant to promote the physical, mental, emotional, and social health of the employees, providing areas where they can rest, socialize, and spend most of the day in a healthy space. 

As the world adapted to life amid a global health crisis, more realized the importance of promoting the health and safety of the community, especially in offices and workplaces. Green buildings are becoming to be the standard in the post-pandemic life as they offer a more refined quality of life while working. 

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the ultimate fusion of business and leisure. With its top-grade green features and sophisticated design, it is one of the few LEED-certified buildings in the Cebu central business district (CBD). This 22-storey premium grade green building is the newest PEZA accredited development in Cebu City. 
 
READ MORE: Well & Green: How JEG Tower @ One Acacia delivers the best workplace in Cebu 

One of JEG Tower’s unique features is its operable windows on its office floors. While some may find this design call as disruptive on its façade, JEG Development Corporation chose to prioritize efficiency over aesthetics. Being a LEED Pre-certified Silver development, JEG Tower observes industry standards to ensure the optimal indoor air quality inside the tower. Operable windows allow the flow of fresh air into the office floors, providing more benefit to its tenants and improving the efficiency of the building. 

RELATED: How Green Buildings Improve Indoor Air Quality and Provide A Healthier Working Environment 

Many studies gave also linked disease-causing germs and viruses to enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces. According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), building occupants with little or no access to fresh air end up being more exposed to pollutants indoors compared to when they go outdoors. HVAC systems tend to circulate and recycle old air rather than drawing new and fresh air from the outside. 

Should office windows be operable? 

Operable office windows provide natural ventilation that does not only improve the energy efficiency of a building but also benefit the health and well-being of its occupiers:  

  • Energy Conservation 

Operable windows can allow natural airflow into the establishment. The introduction of warm and cool air to the interior of the building during favorable outside temperature and humidity conditions. 

  • Increased Comfort and Productivity 

Fresh air is always good for the health of the tenants of the building. Studies show that employees that have access to fresh outdoor air and more oxygen are more productive and healthy.  

  • Disease Prevention and Control 

Since some research claim that COVID-19 is airborne, operable windows can prevent other airborne diseases and prevent cross-infection inside the premises of the office. 

  • Low Maintenance 

Operable windows are easier to clean and maintain for office buildings. It allows easier access to the window cleaners from the inside. 

Understanding the importance of indoor air quality and fresh air is vital in offering the best working environment for employees. Committed to providing safer spaces in Cebu, JEG Tower @ One Acacia invests in the latest technology and follows the highest industry standards that set well-being as the top priority. 

For inquiries and more information on leasing, contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884. 

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Safe Travel 101: Travelling to Cebu Amid the Pandemic

One year since being the epicenter of COVID-19 in the Philippines, Cebu is on its way to adjusting to ‘the new normal’. After successfully controlling cases and stopping re-surges from happening, the local government of Cebu is now allowing travel for business and leisure for domestic or local visitors.

According to the Inter-Agency Task Force, the whole province of Cebu, including Cebu City, is placed under Modified General Community Quarantine from May 1-31, 2020. Under this classification, essential and non-essential travel is permitted as long as tourists strictly observe the following guidelines.

  • All tourists entering Cebu through the Mactan-Cebu International Airport should be wearing face masks and face shields at all times, especially during their flight.
  • Necessary documents should be prepared and ready before boarding the plane. Passengers with incomplete documents will not be allowed to board.
  • All tourists should present a confirmed round trip plane tickets
  • All tourists should fill out and complete the Cebu Public Health Passenger Locator Form

The travel requirements and procedure implemented in Cebu City is stricter compared to the rest of the province. As set by the Cebu City LGU, the following are the travel requirements for APORs:

Travel Requirements | APOR

APOR, or Authorized Persons Outside of Residents are travelers to Cebu City for official business or employment. According to the guidelines of the IATF, the following are considered APORs:

  • Health and emergency frontline service personnel
  • Government officials and government frontline personnel
  • Duly authorized humanitarian assistance actors (HAAs)
  • Persons traveling for medical or humanitarian reasons
  • Persons going to the airport for travel abroad
  • Anyone crossing zones for work or business permitted in the zone of destination, and going back home

Requirements:

  • Negative RT-PCR result (Test must have been taken 3 days from the date of travel)
  • Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage (S-Pass) Registration (To register: Upload all documents to https://s-pass.ph/)
  • Travel Coordination Permit (TCP) or Travel Thru Permit (TPP) QR

Government-employed or IATF members should also include their valid government identification and mission/travel order.

Travel Requirements | Tourists

To aid the economy of Cebu City, tourists with non-essential travel purposes are also allowed to go to the Visayan capital given that they present the following requirements:

  • RT-PCR Negative result (test must have been taken 3 days from the date of travel)
  • Safe, Swift, and Smart Passage (S-Pass) Registration. (To register: Upload all documents to https://s-pass.ph/)
  • Travel Coordination Permit (TCP) or Travel Thru Permit (TPP) QR Code

Meanwhile, the latest directive from the provincial government of Cebu is not requiring APORs and domestic tourists to undergo mandatory testing or quarantine protocols as long as they present the following requirements:

  • Valid IDs
  • Medical Certificate
  • Approved pass after symptoms were checked and screened
  • Strictly comply with the minimum health standards during their stay

Government APORs are also required to have their original travel mission order by their respective superiors.

Other tips and reminders:

Get your RT-PCR Test from DOH-accredited laboratories

Only RT-PCR test results from DOH-accredited laboratories will be honored and considered as a valid requirement when entering Cebu City. Also, keep in mind that the negative test result should be within the 72-hour window prior to your date of travel.

Strictly observe health and safety protocols upon arrival and departure

Comply with the minimum health and safety standards implemented in the province at all times, from arrival to departure. Have all your travel documents readily available for checkpoints and inspections.

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