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Determining the Right Office Size for your Business

One of the most crucial factors when looking for an office space is the size needed for your business to operate. When leasing a workplace, there is no one size fits all or a definitive figure applicable for everyone. 

  • Attractive young female creative designer working on new project in office.
It is important to have space enough to accommodate different areas of function in the workplace. An office should also be a place where people collaborate, socialize, and reflect. In the new normal, more companies also take into consideration basic health protocol against the spread of diseases, such as physical distancing.  
Here are some factors to consider when determining your office size requirement: 
Number of Employees 
 
In the Philippines, the recommended ratio of space per employee is about five square meters. This means that on average, every employee in the office should have at least five square meters of space for his workstation, equipment, and free space.  
Each employee’s workspace should allow them to work without risking their health and safety and let them be comfortable enough to be productive and inspired. 
Office Zones 
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people work and live. Now that many companies are returning to the traditional workplace, offices are beginning to adapt to a new set of needs to provide a safer and healthier space for their employees. Office spaces are not only a space for a person to work. It is also a place where people collaborate, socialize, think, reflect, and develop their skills.  
Moreover, remember to include common and shared spaces when calculating the space needed for your office such as: 
Meeting Rooms or Collaboration Spaces 
Conference Rooms 
Private Offices or Quiet Rooms 
Kitchen and Pantry 
Front Desk and Reception 
Storage 
 
Plans for Growth and Expansion 
Leasing an office for your business should be a long-term plan that can accommodate expansion plans in the future. Moving to a new office isn’t something you want to do often, so it’s important to plan ahead and make sure your next office meets your current and future needs. Think about how your business will change over the next ten years. Business owners should consider and anticipate space and storage needs for more employees, larger office spaces, and more files to keep.

Each company varies in the amount each company varies in the amount of office space they need. However, by providing a comfortable space for your employees, offering safe shared spaces, having a venue to practice your company’s culture, and preparing for the future, you will have an idea of which office space is perfect for your business. 
 
JEG Tower @ One Acacia accommodates companies that need small (93-215 sq m) to large (1,170-1,179.02 sq m) office spaces in the heart of Metro Cebu. Schedule a viewing today! Contact Alexa Abella 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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Why Lease an Office Space in Cebu City?

The Queen City of the South, Cebu is more than just a popular tourist destination in the Philippines. Its bustling economy, supported by local business policies, big-ticket infrastructure projects, and rich real estate portfolio, Metro Cebu is now one of the most attractive investment locations in the country.\

Here are some of the reasons why you should lease an office space in Cebu City: 
 
PREMIUM COMMERCIAL SPACES 

Cebu City boasts of a huge portfolio of office and retail buildings that offer premium and tech-capable spaces to aid in the expansion of businesses in the Visayan region. Many developments are also designed and built to support and accommodate the needs of its occupiers, including IT-BPO locators. Over the past few years, the BPO industry became one of the drivers of the province’s economy and business landscape. 

 
According to KMC Savills data, Cebu City’s office market continued to show improvement during the last quarter of 2021. The net office take-up of almost 16,000 sq m. It also added that with total completions of 65,300 sq m of new Grade A office space in Metro Cebu, vacancies will climb up to 24.9%, prompting additional options for companies locating to the economic center of Visayas. 
 
 
FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY 
 
As one of the top tourist destinations and jewels of the Philippines, real estate developments in Cebu City put more premium in the protection and preservation of the environment. Because of this, more spaces are shifting to green and more sustainable design and construction methods that also benefit employees to occupy the building. 
 
RELATED: Why Green Buildings are Office-Rebound Ready 

 
 
LOCAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR BUSINESS 
 
The Cebu City local government is very supportive of its business community. With the economy in mind, local policies in Metro Cebu enable local and multinational companies and investors to set up their business in the economic center of Visayas.  
 

Cities and municipalities within the province prioritize the strengthening of measures and ordinances to support the growing local business sector. The local administration also adopts necessary changes and adjustments to promote the province as the next key location in the Visayas region. Government officials take pride in sustaining the standards in business policymaking and investment promotions in Cebu. Similar initiatives will encourage more business locators to invest and occupy more office spaces and commercial buildings in other areas within the province. 

 
UP AND COMING LABOR POOL 

One of the main benefits of locating your business in Cebu City is its young and lively workforce. Cebu City is home to some of the best universities in the country, including the University of the Philippines Cebu and University of San Carlos that produce graduates exceptional in various fields and industries. 
 
Additionally, Cebu is well-known for its English-speaking population which can be an additional benefit for multinational companies and BPOs to operate and expand to the province.  

 
EXPANSION OUTSIDE METRO MANILA 

KMC also cited that many multinational companies under the healthcare services, legal services, professional travel management, financial services, IT services, software development, and animation industries are some of the top locators that are looking to expand their business footprint and operations in Cebu City. 
 
JEG Tower @ One Acacia is one of the newest premium green buildings in Cebu City. Named as the Best Commercial Green Development by PropertyGuru in 2020, this LEED Gold-certified development is truly the best place to work in Cebu. 
 
LEARN MORE ABOUT JEG TOWER: Checklist for the Best Business Address in Cebu City 
 

Interested in expanding to the Visayas? Locate in the best place to work in Cebu City. Get in touch with Gerold Fernando at (+63) 917-565-3547 or send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com for more details.   
 

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Why Cebu is an attractive location for multinational locators

As the world recovers from the economic impacts of the pandemic and lockdowns, Cebu remains to be an attractive business location especially for multinational locators.  
 
In its latest property report, KMC noted that commercial rents in Metro Cebu are beginning to stabilize and gradually improve as the sector transitions to the new normal. With a diversified real estate portfolio, impressive infrastructure, and ease of transport and access, local and foreign companies consider Cebu as its location for expansion. 
 
Diversified Real Estate Portfolio 
 
Metro Cebu’s main business districts, Cebu Business Park and Cebu IT Park are home to around 81,000 sq m of Grade A office spaces. Over the years, commercial developments have framed the Cebu City skyline, offering premium spaces for local and foreign business entities that want to relocate or expand outside Metro Manila and Luzon. 
 
Among the newest premium green buildings to launch this year in Cebu City is JEG Tower @ One Acacia. This 22-storey development was recognized as the country’s Best Commercial Green Building in 2020 and is a certified LEED Gold.

Impressive Infrastructure 
 
The Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is expected to bring more economic growth and assist in the pandemic recovery of Cebu City and its neighboring areas as the local government anticipates its completion during the first quarter of 2022. 
 
The 8.9-kilometer infrastructure project offers an alternative route for those coming from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. It is the country’s largest water-crossing infrastructure, built with a navigational clearance to allow larger vessels to safely cross underneath the bridge. 

Business leaders in Central Visayas have also expressed their optimism over the socio-economic benefits of CCLEX to the province and the whole region once it starts operating this year. Both local business leaders and multinational locators say the economic benefits that will enable Cebu to bounce back economically and start have ripple effects that will be felt across the Visayas. 
 
READ MORE: CCLEX to aid economic recovery in Cebu in 1Q/2022 

 
Ease of Transport & Access 
 
The Mactan-Cebu International Airport is the main entry and exit point in Cebu City. This development is also the second busiest international airport in the Philippines that serves the majority of Metro Cebu and the Central Visayas region. 
 
Its international terminal, Terminal 2, started operations in 2018 and has significantly increased the capacity of the airport to 12.5 million passengers per year. In 2019, the new design of this terminal won an award under the “Completed Buildings – Transport” at the World Architecture Festival. 
 
Interested in expanding to the Visayas? Locate in the best place to work in Cebu City. Get in touch with Gerold Fernando at (+63) 917-565-3547 or send an email to jeg@kmcmaggroup.com for more details.  
 
Discover how JEG Tower @ One Acacia revolutionizes work and life balance today. 

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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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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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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.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is Cebu City’s newest PEZA accredited premium green building. With its sustainable and green features, the 22-storey commercial tower contributes to Cebu City’s resilience against pandemics and future disease outbreaks. Visit our website at www.jegtower.com to learn more.

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Cebu’s COVID vaccination kicks off this week, signals region’s economic recovery

The first batch of COVID-19 vaccine is set to arrive in Cebu by the first week of March. As the Philippines’ vaccination program officially kicked off in Manila, the Department of Health (DOH) announced that doses allotted for Cebu and Davao are already in transit.

“We are already transporting the vaccine this coming March 3 and 4 to Cebu, and to Davao on March 5 and 6,” vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. told the media. The official also committed an ‘equitable distribution’ of Sinovac dosses across the country. He also disclosed that allocated vaccines to the Visayan Region will be delivered to Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center.

DOH-7 spokesperson Dr. Mary Jean Loreche has also confirmed that the province will begin its vaccination program as soon as the doses arrive, prioritizing the medical frontliners and local healthcare workers. “Based on the meeting this morning (Sunday), the target for Visayas (Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center), is March 4,” Dr. Loreche said.

To prepare for the vaccination roll out, the local government of Cebu has already started profiling priority groups who will receive the vaccine. According to local officials, this step is crucial to prevent any complications as senior citizens and other sectors of the community get inoculated.

Improving economy

Dr. Loreche also confirmed that the province will remain to be under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) until March 15 as advised by the DOH’s technical advisory council (TAC). This earned the nod of Cebu’s business sector which expressed that the economic revival of the province and its tri-cities: Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu would greatly rely on a successful vaccination program against the pandemic.

Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Felix Taguiam also expressed his support for the local vaccination program, saying that this should be the signal the recovery of the economy in Cebu and the Visayas.

“We have to do more. At least we can go on with the economy at work which will surely help so many people. Minimum health standards must be strictly enforced by our authorities with no special treatment and we are hoping in the next few weeks, we will see the downtrend,” he said.

He also urged member organizations and companies to allocate budget for the vaccination of their employees to ensure their safety as the province slowly reopen its economy amid the pandemic.

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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Cebu’s Green Push: JEG Tower recognized in Philippine Property Awards

Cebu is home to JEG Tower @ One Acacia, which continues to be one of the leading green developments in the Philippines. The premier office and retail property is one of the finalists for the 8th PropertyGuru Philippine Property Awards for Best Office Development.

Setting itself apart, the iconic tower offers distinct environmentally friendly features and sophisticated design. With its aim to revolutionize work and life, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has successfully pivoted its estate to elevate the corporate profile and improve the overall occupant experience as it prioritizes public health and safety.

RELATED: JEG Development Corporation Underscores Sustainability as Key to Cebu’s Economic Recovery

Drawing the JEG distinction

The soon-to-be-completed office and retail tower has achieved a Silver pre-certified Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) accreditation. Committed to sustainability, JEG Tower is built from environmentally friendly materials such as low VOC content in paint, coating, sealant, adhesives, flooring systems used. They also utilized recyclable building materials for steel bars, glass façade, and cement that was uniquely sourced from coal wastes.

It also boasts of an energy-savings capacity of at least 12% with its enhanced interior space for maximum views and natural light and ventilation. They also installed a state-of-the-art HVAC system that exceeds ASHRAE 90.1 and ASHRAE 62.1—the international standard on human well-being and sustainable technology.

RELATED: Pandemic-Proof Workplace: How LEED buildings stand out

JEG Tower @ One Acacia also promises 32% reduced water usage by employing a rainwater catchment system and low plumbing fixtures. More efficient waste management is also implemented as it allocated space for Materials Recovery Facility, sewage treatment plant, and encourage proper recycling of paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass.

The Cebuano sustainable developer has also allocated 20% of its space to green spaces for a better work environment and proper ventilation. Its first-of-its-kind green roof features a diverse collection of flora along with the iconic preservation of an acacia tree. These spaces will allow for relaxing midday breaks and can be a venue for wellness activities or social gatherings. A pocket garden is also placed in the lobby and plant boxes are placed in the carpark for better ventilation.

A move toward safety, public health

The World Green Building Council encouraged more workplaces to adjust their developments or implement building-based measures to address the concerns brought about by COVID-19. JEG Tower @ One Acacia has successfully transitioned with additional safety measures for the benefit of their occupants.

RELATED: JEG Tower Focus – Additional Safety Features for Disease Prevention

The iconic green tower is now equipped with automatic doors for a touchless or contactless entry. Two types of thermal scanners are also available for proper temperature and health monitoring for employees and visitors.

JEG Tower also has Destination-Oriented Allocated System (DOAS) elevators for less wait time and easier mobility around the building. Unique entry badges are assigned per car for an easier contact tracing mechanism.

Common areas such as restrooms are also armed with the best fixtures such as the Dyson Airblade. This hand dryer is the fastest and most hygienic, guaranteeing 79% less carbon dioxide production and a 76% reduction in paper towel use. It also boasts of a HEPA filter, anti-bacterial additives, and touch-free technology.

Find out how you can locate in JEG Tower today. Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443 or send an email to mike.g@kmcmaggroup.com.

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JEG Development Corporation Underscores Sustainability as Key to Cebu’s Economic Recovery

Months after the threat of being the country’s COVID-19 epicenter in June, Cebu City is now gradually resuming to its normal operations following the period of being under the strictest quarantine measures.

With the city government allowing the return in operations of over 1,300 traditional jeepneys last November 3 and the Department of Health announcing that Cebu City is showing signs of herd immunity the day after, the Queen City of the South is well on its way to restart the economy.

Despite the temporary pause brought about by the pandemic, local real estate developer JEG Development Corporation (JDC) is committed to drive the historic city to new heights and to realize a more progressive and resilient future.

What started as a holding company founded by the late Jose E. Garcia in 1994, JDC has evolved into a real estate company 10 years after and is now led by Garcia’s grandson, JDC’s Chief Operating Officer, Marko Sarmiento.

Under Sarmiento’s leadership, the company began developing strip malls and residential projects and is now set to unveil a state-of-the-art green building with the launch of JEG Tower early next year.

“JDC’s main thrust has always been to enrich the lives of the communities where our properties are built. 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,” said Sarmiento. 

Reinventing the workplace

The threat of the virus has permanently skewed how businesses are done, and this includes the workplace.

For JDC’s Brand Manager, Ayla Gomez, as businesses slowly transition back to normal operations, it is the perfect time to rethink old ways and to shift mindsets to consider things that may not have been prioritized as much before.

“Even before the pandemic, we have always envisioned JEG Tower to be the game changer that challenges the perspective of businesses when it comes to the workplace. We want to encourage them to put a high priority to providing a healthier workplace, because we see the greater impact on our overall wellbeing and the world we live in,” Gomez said.

JDC Estate Manager Stefan Garcia also added that through JEG Tower, JDC is driven to develop the healthiest workplace in the city.

“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.

“JEG Tower is built using green techniques, with management plans for soil erosion, waste management, and air quality. A less polluted environment ensures better health, especially lung health, which proved to be a key factor for people during this pandemic,” he reiterated.  

Extending their assistance to Visayas

JDC’s efforts to help Cebu get back on its feet after the lockdown was not limited to its properties. Through their affiliate foundations like Vivant Foundation, Inc., the family behind JDC continuously contributes to the ongoing sustainable development of communities in Visayas. 

For instance, VFI’s Projects, Liadlaw and RELY, provide solar electrification for off-grid schools in Region VII, while simultaneously sponsoring a technical-vocational course in Electronic Installation and Maintenance with Solar to ensure the maintenance of the solar electrification systems and future livelihoods for students in the region.

The future of real estate in Visayas

With the launch of JEG Tower set to happen imminently JDC is all geared up to push the envelope and redefine the future of the property industry not just in Cebu, but the whole country.

JDC’s deep regard for the welfare of its tenants, their employees, and the communities they are in has gained the attention of many including the Property Awards Asia, where JEG Tower was nominated as The Best Office Development, making them one of the very few Visayas-based properties that managed to get shortlisted.

To know more about JDC, JEG Tower and it’s other properties, head over to https://jegdevelopment.com.  

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Corporate Wellness 101: Why shift focus on health and well-being

With the several concerns brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, more companies are looking for sustainable and resilient solutions to better protect and equip their workforce physically and mentally. The shift to wellness is becoming one of the priorities as more businesses regroup and map out their workplace re-entry strategies.

Beyond a pandemic-proof workplace, public health and safety can be improved through a suitable corporate wellness program. This initiative offers many advantages beyond employee engagement and a sense of community.

According to Business News Daily, providing lifestyle enhancement benefits can be a powerful method to recruit and retain employees. These benefits usually involve fitness, mental health, or medical needs. Simply giving access or capacity to avail gym memberships, health apps or other assistance programs can keep them happy and loyal.

Similarly, in the Philippines, companies such as JEG Development Corporation has been offering a wellness program to encourage a more active lifestyle and support sustainable transportation in Cebu. Through an allocated fund, they have recently launched a well-received bike program for all their employees that allows them to purchase their bikes.

RELATED: Why Sustainable Transportation Matters For A Greener Philippines

Since its inception, more employees are going on bike runs together to keep them fit, and also as a form of responsible socialization. Individuals who already have bikes or are less inclined to do so can use the budget to buy vitamins to supplement their health.

More data shows that these programs can help improve overall business performance as it fosters a healthier workplace. In a report by Entrepreneur, a healthy workforce can improve output due to lower stress levels and employee absences. Beyond productivity, enabling their interest to become more physically and emotionally fit will also reduce healthcare expenses for companies.

A more holistic approach is also encouraged by some experts. In the same report, the corporate wellness program can go beyond physical and emotional needs by addressing issues unique to one’s particular life. This can include financial aid, legal protection, or simply taking a more active role in the community which heavily appeals to the younger generation or the millennial workforce.

Recently, new fronts in healthcare and corporate wellness are being explored. With the help of technology, it is easier to access information and monitor fitness performance through certain apps and online platforms. Given the current pandemic, corporations can opt to avail of digital health care solutions in the workplace to create more awareness or mindfulness when it comes to physical or mental fitness.

RELATED: Pushing Sustainable Offices: Leveraging smart technology for safety, productivity

In a study conducted in the US, it was observed that employees are much interested in utilizing technology or digital systems that can help them personally monitor weight loss, provide health risk assessments, and other relevant biometric screenings.

With the drawbacks triggered by the pandemic, the shift in business priorities is a long time coming. Investing in the health and wellness of the workforce will deliver long-term returns and benefits not only for the individual but for businesses as well.

Looking to move into a healthier workplace? Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443 or send an email to mike.g@kmcmaggroup.com.