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

As the term ‘Sustainability’ developed into a more encompassing concept, green buildings now aim to cover the economic and social effects of real estate on the society. JEG Tower @ One Acacia is Cebu City’s newest premium building to rise in the Cebu Business District. Being a LEED Pre-certified Silver commercial development, this 22-storey, Grade A building underscores the triple bottom line of sustainability that is People, Planet, and Profit.


According to the Alliance for Sustainable Built Environments, businesses and organizations that follow these principles and approach create long-term value by embracing opportunities and managing risks derived from changes in economic, environmental, and social factors.


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.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia was designed and constructed to be a safe environment and a premium space for Cebuanos. Being a Pre-certified Silver LEED building, it prioritizes the health and well-being of its occupants with its top-grade amenities and green features. The tower ensures the safety and protection of its tenants from different threats to their health. JEG Tower utilizes top-grade amenities, such as the MERV 13 filter and the fresh air system, to provide an improved and the optimal indoor air quality inside the building.

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

JEG Tower also enhanced its features that safeguard its tenants from the virus and other health hazards. As an additional layer of protection, it utilizes contactless technology through automated doors and sensor-automated fixtures. The tower also has designated areas for sanitation and disinfection.


More than the physical aspect of wellness, the tower also uplifts the mental health of its occupiers through some of its key design elements: a lot of dedicated green spaces and large windows. Following a biophilic office design, employees can maximize natural light and exposure to plants and nature which are scientifically proven to improve mood, relieve stress, and induce motivation. JEG Tower also features a unique green rooftop, making it one of the most identifiable landmarks in the Cebu City skyline.

The ‘Planet’ concept of sustainability considers the environmental impacts of the design of the building and its operations on air, water, land, and the global climate. JEG Tower @ One Acacia was developed by, JEG Development Corporation, one of the country’s frontrunners of sustainable real estate.

It utilizes state-of-the-art technology such as the Destination Oriented Allocation System (DOAS) elevator systems to ensure strategic and safe movement within the building. These elevators are integrated with the installed turnstiles that allow for a unique lift assignment, assuring a less crowded lobby. This technology also improves the energy efficiency of the building, successfully reducing the development’s carbon footprint.

RELATED: How JEG Tower ensures workplace safety

This premium development also uses green construction materials such as non-VOC paints and locally sourced wood and raw materials. JEG Tower also has its own material recovery facility to support its vision of creating fewer negative impacts on the environment. The development also has a rainwater collection facility which also helps in water conservation.


“Green developments aren’t a standard yet in Cebu, but we want to take the initiative starting with this building,” Marko Sarmiento, JDC’s Chief Operating Officer said. “The green movement in the real estate industry has so much potential, and I think the Cebuanos can benefit from it,” he said.

Recently, JEG Tower @ One Acacia was recognized as the country’s 2020 Best Green Commercial Development with its impressive green features and commitment to prioritizing the holistic well-being of its tenants. PropertyGuru Philippines has also shortlisted this premier development as Best Office Development in the same year.

The ‘Profit’ concept focuses on the financial aspect of businesses located in a green building. JEG Tower @ One Acacia delivers the best working environment for its tenants, making itself a partner to these businesses’ growth and success. Moreover, it also significantly factors in a company’s savings and operating costs. With JEG Tower’s design and green features, occupiers can have utility savings by up to 12%.

LEED’s triple bottom line of People, Planet, and Profit emphasizes how connected each aspect is to each other. Utility savings and energy costs can have a direct impact on the environment, and the environment can affect the community’s overall well-being as a whole.

Interested to learn more about JEG Tower’s advocacy? Reach out to Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443. For more information on leasing, send us an email at info@kmcmaggroup.com or reach out to us through (+632) 8403-5519.

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

Cebu City is an established metropolitan capital of the Philippines in the Visayan region. Over the years, it has emerged as one of the economic centers of the country given its strategic location in the archipelago. As the Queen City of the South urbanized, more and more commercial developments have been catering to the growing demand for office and retail spaces posted by local and international companies expanding in the region.


JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the best place to work in Cebu City. Being recognized as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development and shortlisted as this year’s Best Office Development, this upcoming Grade A building has the qualities of a great business address and office for your company.

RELATED: Choosing the Best Office Location in Cebu City

Great Business Location

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is located at Archbishop Reyes Ave. corner Acacia St., Cebu City. This strategic location captures the market from its neighboring central business districts, Cebu IT Park and Cebu Business Park. It is also situated along one of the city’s major thoroughfares.

This 22-storey landmark is right in the heart of Cebu City. JEG Tower @ One Acacia is easily located along the main road through its distinct façade and shape. It is near key establishments and amenities such as supermarkets, malls, hotels, and transport hubs.

Premium Green Building

Being the newest premium green building in the Cebu business district, JEG Tower @ One Acacia was designed and constructed using green materials and state-of-the-art technology. These are safeguards to ensure reduced negative environmental impacts and the promotion of its tenants’ health and well-being.

JEG Tower utilizes smart technology in its office, retail, and common spaces to protect its tenants from the threats of the virus. The commercial tower uses MERV-13 air filters and Fresh Air System for optimal indoor air quality. DOAS or Destination Oriented Allocation System Elevators are also one of the world-class green features of JEG Tower as part of its pledge to sustainability and green real estate.

Best place to work in Cebu

JEG Tower @ One Acacia offers office spaces with an open floor layout. This is easily customizable fo companies that would want the flexibility and the option to customize their workspace and reflect their culture through the space. There are also provisions for expansion that support the companies’ room for growth in the long run.

Each unit also has a provision to construct a shower facility. This will be available on the tower’s parking floor for the convenience of the tenants. This feature also serves as a disinfection or sanitation feature within the establishment as an additional safeguard against diseases and other health hazards.

Considering to locate your business in this award-winning green building? JEG Tower @ One Acacia’s showroom is now available for viewing! Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 or send an email to lorenzo.rodriguez@kmcmaggroup.com. For leasing inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

Choosing the Best Office Location in Cebu City

Being the center of economic activity in the Visayan Region, Cebu has emerged as the main driver of trade and business outside Luzon and Metro Manila. More than its bustling tourism and hospitality industry, Cebu City’s office and residential portfolio have grown over the years. Many local and multinational companies that are looking to expand their operations nationwide prefer to lease an office located in the Queen City of the South.

Cebu’s central business district is divided into two master-planned estates, namely Cebu Business Park and Cebu IT Park. Both offer a fair share of work, live, and play developments that promote a holistic lifestyle options for employees, students, and families. The Cebu CBD has evolved into a lifestyle destination at the center of the city, successfully integrating commercial, retail, and lifestyle concepts in one central hub.

With numerous options, how can companies choose the best office to lease in Cebu City? Here are some factors that you should consider:

Location

One of the most crucial considerations in finding the best office space for your business is its location. A great business address is easily located and accessible, not only by clients and potential customers, but also by its employees.

An ideal office location should also be near key establishments such as food stores, marketplaces, hospitals, malls, and public transport hubs. Companies can also consider its distance to their competitors or proximity to its partners within the area to make and execute strategic decisions better.

Building

Companies looking for the best office space for lease in Cebu should also consider the building and structure itself. Inquire about the added amenities and facilities that it offers and how they are maintained. An ideal office should be situated in a building that is well-kept and provides the support a business needs in order to grow and expand in the long run.

Another factor to consider is the building’s green and sustainability features. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people have given more importance to their health and well-being, even outside the comforts of their homes.

An ideal office location should be in a building that promotes a holistic approach to its tenants’ wellness. Green buildings are structures that are designed, constructed, and operates to reduce negative impacts on the environment and improve the health and well-being of its occupants.

Workspace

Space is arguably the most vital when choosing the perfect office for your business. Factor in the size of your company and the total amount of space you need to take up in order to function effectively and most efficiently. An ideal office space should also support the possibility of your company’s expansion and growth in the future.

Some businesses also prefer to have their company culture and identity be reflected in their workspace. This should also be one of your most important considerations as many studies prove that the workplace design significantly contributes to the innovation and productivity of the employees and the company itself.

Finding the best office space for your business can be challenging and overwhelming. However, with the right considerations and priorities in mind, choosing the most ideal workplace for your company should boil down to options that reflect your company values and culture, provide for your needs, and support your business goals. 

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the newest office and commercial development in the heart of Cebu City. Named as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development by the PropertyGuru Awards, the 22-storey LEED Pre-certified building is one of the most ideal office locations in Metro Cebu. It is also shortlisted as the Best Office Development by the same award-giving body.

Complementing sustainability with sophistication, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has invested in top-grade technology to provide the most ideal working environment and become the best workplace in Cebu for local businesses and multinational clients.

Want to locate in this world-class green building? Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443. For inquiries and more information about JEG Tower @ One Acacia, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

Sustainability Construction and Design Trends 2021

Sustainability was one of the most defining shifts in the real estate industry in 2020. As more businesses realize the importance of health and well-being, this trend in design and construction shows no signs of slowing down this year. Construction and design professionals are also working to build more planet-friendly structures that would benefit communities as a whole.

Here are some green trends in construction and design to expect this year:

Green Materials and Increased LEED applications

As more people realize the benefits of staying and locating in a green building, many developers will aim for LEED certification for their commercial and residential developments. More green materials will be used and prioritized in construction to help property owners achieve this certification.

Green materials such as wood, bamboo, natural fibers, non-VOC paints, fiber cement, among others will be utilized by developers and contractors for their health and practical benefits. Experts say that as more people realize the connection between their environment and their wellness, many will opt to return to using materials that originate from nature rather than highly processed and synthetic options.

Biophilic Design

Many offices will be inspired by biophilic features and design in workstations and shared spaces. Biophilic spaces do not only use eco-friendly materials, it also promote a healthier lifestyle by bringing nature and its elements back into buildings.

Studies found that incorporating biophilic design in the workplace has a positive effect on the employees’ productivity, mood, and health. Work environments that feature elements of nature can contribute to a decrease in the levels of mental fatigue and an increase in levels of workplace well-being.

RELATED: The Importance of Biophilic Design in a Post-Lockdown Office

A biophilic office design will continuously be in trend for this year since businesses prioritize the health and safety of their employees as they start coming back to the office amid the threats of the COVID-19 pandemic. More than strict precautionary measures protecting physical health, employers should also cater to the emotional and mental well-being of their people.

Vernacular Architecture

Vernacular Architecture will also be one of the sustainable construction and design trends for this year. More developments will be using locally produced and available construction materials. This real estate trend will also inspire design that will not only pay homage to the history and culture of a place but would also increase the efficiency of material procurement and production. This type of construction is sustainable as vernacular design stresses utilizing materials within reach from the site, which in turn cuts down on transportation cost and reduces the chance of shortage of materials.

Water Conservation Measures

Commercial buildings will be more aware of their water conservation measures in 2021 as there is more awareness of the predicted shortage of fresh water supply in some regions of the world. Installing rainwater collecting and management facilities and installing green roofs is a sustainable design and construction solution for this imminent environmental problem.

READ MORE: How Green Roofs Help the Environment

Passive Building Design

Logically designing a building to maximize as many natural resources is also one of the sustainable trends in construction this year. Allowing more natural light by building larger windows or orienting a structure in such a way that wind flows will lead to lesser utility costs and lesser energy emissions in the long run. Little adjustments and changes in the design of a development can go a long way to reducing the energy requirements of the building and would also benefit its occupants.

JEG Development Corportation is one of the frontrunners of sustainability in the Philippines. Its first vertical commercial development, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is where sustainability meets sophistication. The 22-storey office and retail tower is LEED Silver Pre-certified and is designed for providing an optimal working environment for its tenants.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is also 2020’s Best Commercial Green Development in the 8th Property Guru Philippine Property Awards. Recognizing the tower’s world-class green features and amenities, JDC is the first local Cebuano company to win this award. JEG Tower was also shortlisted for Best Office Development in the same year.

Learn more about how the building’s design and construction benefit the environment and its occupants. Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-852-6884. For more information on leasing, send us an email at info@kmcmaggroup.com or reach out to us through (+632) 8403-5519.

MERV 13 Filters: Are they worth the investment?

With workers and workplaces facing increased hazards associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released their recommendation and guidance for businesses that will reopen amid the pandemic. To prevent the spread of the virus within enclosed public spaces, landlords are advised to prioritize upgrading their building’s air filtration system.

The CDC said that businesses should ‘improve central air filtration to MERV-13 or the highest [standard] compatible with the filter rack, and to seal edges of the filter to limit bypass’ to reduce the risk for office workers. HVAC air filters are necessary to remove contaminants from the air in enclosed spaces with limited ventilation such as workplaces.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has also recommended upgrading air filters in HVAC systems to at least MERV 13 for better filtration, fewer dust particles, and other airborne contaminants.

What is MERV?

The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is an effectiveness scale for air filtration systems developed by ASHRAE in 1987. The scale goes from 1 to 16 which indicates the filter’s capacity and efficiency to capture smaller particles.

A MERV-13 rating means a filter is able to catch 90% of particles in the 3-10 micron (μm) range, 90% of particles in the 1-3μm range, and 50% of particles in the range of 0.3-1μm.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia utilizes MERV 13 filters to ensure the utmost safety and protection of its occupiers against the virus and other airborne threats. The MERV13 filter is one of the highest-grade filters in the industry, usually used in hospitals and other high-risk facilities. It promotes a healthy breathing environment, and it will not allow the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, or fungi.

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

Why is it important during a pandemic?

Offices can be hotspots for virus and disease outbreaks caused by recycled air and decreased ventilation. Through high quality and top-grade air filters, the indoor air quality of commercial buildings is dramatically improved.

MERV 13 air filters are long-term investments for commercial developments, not only during a pandemic. Aside from protecting its tenants from virus cross-infection and improving their health, better indoor air quality also upgrades the working environment for office buildings.

“Improving indoor air quality has been shown to increase business productivity through being a factor in reducing absenteeism due to health issues,” Michael Glindro, LEED AP BD+C said. “After all, we do spend a majority of our day in the office so taking steps into creating a healthy work environment will benefit the triple bottom line.”

Premium green buildings such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia emphasize the importance of uplifting the quality of life of its tenants through a holistic approach to well-being. The 22-storey LEED Silver Pre-certified building ensures that the highest standards for health and safety are observed and followed during a pandemic or not.

How JEG Tower promotes occupant safety in the workplace

As part of JEG Development Corporation’s commitment to a holistic promotion of health and well-being, the company continues to invest in state-of-the-art technology that ensures the safety and protection of its tenants especially in the new normal.

Designed and constructed with the Cebuanos in mind, JEG Tower @ One Acacia offers more than its green features and amenities that contribute lesser negative impacts to the environment. Named as 2020’s Best Commercial Green Development, the 22-storey LEED Pre-certified Silver establishment utilizes one of the top-grade technologies to encourage proper and effective handwashing: the Dyson Airblade. 

READ MORE: Pandemic-Proof Workplace: How LEED buildings stand out 

The Dyson Airblade is a sensor-operated, touch-free hand dryer that is equipped with the HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtration system that purifies the air that is used to dry hands. 

According to the World Green Building Council, green buildings could help in the fight against COVID-19 or any public health emergencies through two key elements: prevention and control.

The Department of Health (DOH) has emphasized that along with wearing face masks and physical distancing, proper hand hygiene remains one of the best defenses against the coronavirus. It also reduces the spread of bacteria and other harmful threats to the environment. This is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as studies found that the virus can ‘stay alive’ and be transmitted through surfaces.

Touch-free Technology

Dyson Airblade utilizes an infrared LED sensor technology that reduces skin to skin contact after washing hands. This touch-free system encourages the most hygienic user experience that is programmed to automatically detect and trigger HEPA purified air for drying.

Studies also show that damp hands can carry and transfer up to 1,000 times more bacteria than dry hands. With a 10-14 second dry time, Dyson Airblade hand dryers can reduce the transmission of bacteria up to 40%.

The Restroom Environment

Research has found that viruses can also thrive in indoor environments with poor air circulation and lower indoor air quality. Dyson Airblade hand dryers are built with HEPA filters that are proven to capture 99.97% of particles, including bacteria and viruses in the air. This helps in minimizing the duration of exposure to any potential infectious materials in any enclosed space.

Lower environmental impact

The Dyson Airblade hand dryers are also aligned with JDC’s push for green real estate and sustainability. This technology cuts up carbon dioxide emissions by up to 85% compared to other hand dryers. More than 90% of the hand dryer’s emissions come from in-use, meaning a faster drying cycle and less energy used. Energy-efficient hand dryers such as the Dyson Airblade also encourages up to 85% less usage of paper towels which means fewer trees are cut down and used in production.

Want to learn more about this technology? Reach out to Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443. You may also contact us at (+63) 2-8403-55-19 or info@kmcmaggroup.com.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia wins Best Commercial Green Development

JEG Development Corporation’s first green and premier high-rise tower, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is recognized as the Best Commercial Green Development during the 8th Property Guru Philippine Property Awards. The leading sustainable development in Cebu was awarded in the virtual gala last November 25, 2020.

The company is also the first local Cebuano company to win the Best Commercial Green Development award, making the recognition more meaningful as JDC aims to give back to the people of Cebu by providing world-class green features and amenities especially in the post-lockdown business landscape. 

As one of the few LEED pre-certified Silver developments in the Visayan region, JEG Tower goes beyond being one of the frontrunners of sustainability and sophistication. This 22-storey office and retail building is a state-of-the-art landmark in the heart of the Cebu Business District pioneered and developed by a homegrown Cebuano developer.  

Built from environmentally friendly materials, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is characterized by its energy-efficient features, reduced water usage, and efficient waste management. It is one of the few developments that has allocated recycling space for a Materials Recovery Facility and dedicated 20% of the estate to green spaces, including a unique green rooftop that provides an outdoor space for its occupiers.

JDC Chief Operating Officer Marko Sarmiento expressed that this has been their vision from the start. “We take pride in this recognition as it validates and reinforces our vision to push for a green and sustainable recovery, not just for Cebu but for the whole country,” he said.

“We aim to inspire other developers to take the first steps in offering high-quality spaces that make people feel valued and protected. We wanted to elevate the experience of our occupants with sophisticated workplace design, and environment that revolutionizes work and life,” he added.

Certain features of the property are focused on protecting public health and well-being, including future workplace wellness initiatives for their occupiers. “Especially with the emergence of COVID-19, we wanted to highlight how important it is to invest in a healthier workplace that uplifts the wellbeing of its tenants,” Brand Manager Ayla Gomez said.

Estate Manager Stefan Garcia also noted that the investment they made in pursuing a sustainable, green building is worth it, especially as more Filipinos realize the importance of putting their health and safety first.

“The pandemic has been an eye-opener for most of us,” Garcia mentioned. “Going back to our vision of revolutionizing work and life, JEG Tower @ One Acacia will open its doors to companies who put a premium on their employees’ welfare.”

PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards recognizes the country’s frontrunners in the real estate industry. It covers a wide range of accolades that feature the best in sustainable real estate, design, and architecture in the country.

The Future of Workplace: Contactless features and smart technology

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly raised the awareness of how easy germs and viruses can spread within communities and shared spaces. As companies commence their workplace re-entry programs, considerations on how they can protect their employees within the space become the top priority in the new normal. 

While the extent of the changes in the post-pandemic office is still uncertain, workplace strategists and experts argue that this event will accelerate the digital transformation of companies, allowing faster adoption of advanced workplace technology. 

The rise of smart technology 

Many businesses adapt to the new normal by incorporating innovation and advanced technology in the office. Majority are transitioning to create a contactless (or at least a low-touch) office experience as it becomes the new standard for the health and security of their employees.  

Given this shift in focus, the unprecedented rise of smart technology in offices and commercial buildings will be very apparent in the new normal. Smart offices are workspaces that utilize automated processes to enhance building operations, from air conditioning and heating, lighting, and security. All of these conveniences will start to be the standard in eliminating and reducing risks after the recent pandemic and other health threats. 

Replacing touch with gesture 

Since the World Health Organization reported that viruses can be contracted from contaminated surfaces, offices will seek to limit contact in operating key equipment such as printer screens, elevator buttons, door handles and replace them with technology-enabled by sensors. Workplace strategists expect more sensor-automated doors and screens to be more common moving forward that removes the need for touching handles or pressing buttons. 

Eliminating high-contact surfaces 

As employees return to the office, they are likely to be conscious of the threat that even the smallest element of the shared environment can produce.  Building developers and commercial institutions should consider the benefits of new advancements in technology such as voice or motion-activated technology.  

Implementing solutions such as voice-controlled elevators, remotely operated printers, and increased use of sensors throughout offices would substantially reduce workplace risk. In more secured offices, emerging technologies such as facial recognition can further reduce contact and exposure among colleagues. 

Hospital-grade workplace  

In the longer term, many experts have predicted that people are becoming more aware of contagious diseases and how fast viruses can spread in offices and other shared spaces. The community built inside the workplace could have elements similar to a hospital. From going for materials and surfaces that can withstand heavy cleaning to installing industry-grade air filters, offices in the new normal will prioritize maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy space for its occupants. 

Future-forward commercial establishments such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, utilize 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.  

JEG Tower utilizes the MERV13 filter, which is one of the highest-grade filters in the industry. It promotes a healthy breathing environment, and it will not allow the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, or fungi. Some MERV filters can even filter pollen, dust, and microscopic droplets in the air to a certain extent. 

Employees working in LEED-certified buildings are Happier, Healthier, and More Productive

More than being safe and protected, employees who are working inside a LEED-certified office building are found to be happier, healthier, and more productive, a study by the US Green Building Council found. Following the main principles that are People, Planet, and Profit, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified buildings are designed and built to promote the overall health and well-being of its occupants while leaving the least negative impacts to the environment. 

Workplaces located inside a LEED-certified building are linked to improved productivity, increased output, and better work performance. The same study also found that the indoor air quality of their work environment contributes to its employees’ fulfillment at work and overall mood during office hours. 

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

More than 80 percent of survey respondents said that having access to clean, high-quality indoor air contributes to their overall workplace happiness. Another 80 percent said that the enhanced air quality improves their physical health and comfort. Numerous studies have linked high-quality air in indoor spaces to the improved cognitive function and focus of its occupiers. According to data, higher indoor air quality significantly enhanced nine specific areas of functional domains namely basic, applied and focused activity levels, task orientation, crisis response, information seeking, information usage, breadth of approach, and strategy. Improved air quality also resulted to better sleep and fewer health symptoms at work. 

Employees also noted that a view of the outdoors and ample natural lighting can also boost their happiness at the office. A recent study has confirmed that natural light in workplaces improve productivity and the overall health of employees. 

LEED-certified buildings such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia have observed the highest set of standards to ensure the overall comfort and safety of its occupants. They are also designed to promote their physical and mental health. 

The 22-storey tower located along Archbishop Reyes Avenue has achieved LEED® BD+C: Core and Shell pre-certification at the Silver Level. Once operational, it will use 12% less energy and water through its efficient and state-of-the-art technology. JEG Development Corporation’s first high-rise development will also give a generous view of the city and provide natural lighting in all office floors. The tower is also made of 20% green space which can also be beneficial to the relaxation and destressing of its occupants. 

RELATED: What is a Healthy Workplace? 

LEED-certified buildings provide a holistic approach to the health and wellbeing of its occupants. By covering physical and psychosocial aspects of wellness, employees located in such buildings are found to be happier, healthier, and perform better at work. 

Looking for an office space located in a LEED-certified building? Discuss your options with Lorenzo Rodriguez through (+63) 917-825-6884. For more information, send us an email at info@kmcmaggroup.com or reach out to us through (+632) 8403-5519. 

What is a ‘Healthy Workplace’?

A healthy workplace is an ideal place to work in. According to some research on employee behavior, one of the top three factors that employees look for in a job is a company’s commitment to health and wellbeing of its employees. This is given more emphasis as the world transitions to the new normal, giving a deeper definition to what a healthy workplace should look like.  

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently published a document defining what a healthy workplace should be, post pandemic. A healthy work environment is a balance of occupational health and safety, as well as health promotion efforts and initiatives. While there may be varied qualifications and qualities, the WHO has consolidated its concrete definition: 

“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.”  

 Physical Work Environment 

Businesses can provide a healthy workplace by ensuring that the physical work environment is set to the highest industry standards and criteria. An ideal physical work environment ensures that the design and layout of the workplace is optimal for the comfort, productivity, and motivation of its employees. 

RELATED: Optimizing Buildings for Disease Prevention 

The US Green Building Council (USGBC) found that potential employees prefer working in an office located in a LEED-certified building, where their health and wellbeing are considered to be top priority. The same study found that workers based in a LEED-certified green building are found to be more satisfied on their job, and that 79 percent of the respondents agree that they would choose a job in a LEED-certified building over a non-LEED building. 

Uplifting health and safety in the physical work environment should cover indoor air quality, ventilation, maintained optimal humidity, and industry standard protocol for cleaning and maintenance. 

 Psychosocial Work Environment  

A healthy workplace should go beyond physical modifications and provide greater support to employees to their psychosocial needs. The 2018 Global Talent Trends survey found that one in two employees would like to see a greater focus on well-being at their company especially on the physical, psychological and financial wellness of its employees. 

A company’s culture contributes a huge role on the WHO’s definition of a healthy workplace. Programs organized and initiated by a company to promote healthy habits and uplift the general wellbeing of their employees should be holistic—providing focus not just on their physical wellbeing but looking after their mental health as well. One study also raises the issue of psychosocial hazards in the workplace that should be addressed by companies to promote a healthy workplace. These may include organizational culture and the attitudes, values, beliefs and daily practices, that can contribute as stressors to employees. 

Community Health and Wellbeing 

An ideal and healthy workplace is not bound by physical workstations and office floors, but should encompass communities. Providing a workplace setting that uplifts and prioritizes the overall health and wellness of its employees creates a huge impact on public health and vice versa. As active members of the community, employees who spend the majority of their day working in their offices should be in a work environment that ensures their holistic safety and wellbeing. 

RELATED: The Importance of Public Health in Communities 

Premium green buildings, such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, invests in the well-being of its building occupiers by addressing health and wellbeing in a holistic approach. By following industry-set 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 their health, while practicing sustainability and energy efficiency.