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.
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.
Energy efficiency and renewable energy provide significant benefits to the economy. More than reduced utility costs, the shift to more sustainable energy options can lead to macroeconomic impacts that can boost economic activity and drive employment for businesses.
In a report published by the International Energy Agency, energy efficiency improvements can deliver benefits across the whole economy, with direct and indirect impacts on economic activity that can be measured by a country’s gross domestic product, employment rate, trade balances, and energy prices.
According to a publication released by the World Bank, energy efficiency directly contributes to some prevailing development challenges in its twin goals of poverty reduction and shared prosperity. In a report published in 2016, it noted that improved energy efficiency in various industries can modernize technology and increase competitiveness without compromising the environment. As economies develop and more infrastructure rises, the demand for energy services will continue to increase. Investing in renewable energy will also provide the same requirements for this development, but with less negative impacts to the planet.
Moreover, the World bank also emphasized that cleaner sources of energy can lead to freed up fiscal resources can then be used for socio-economic development and for programs. Energy efficiency mitigates the impact of ongoing tariff reforms, which adversely affect poorer households.
Instead of importing natural gas and electricity supply, renewable energy generated can benefit domestic and local companies and retailers to provide energy management services. Local governments can contribute to economic growth by generating energy on-site, purchasing green power. The combination of renewable energy options can help meet local government goals especially in areas where the availability and quality of renewable resources vary. As a ‘mostly untapped resource’, the World Bank also noted that substantial gains remain available through the adoption of cost-effective measures, global best practices, and available technologies. This can be applied specifically to the commercial real estate sector, which represents over 40 percent of the global energy demand.
Larger Impacts of Reduced Utility Bills Lesser utility bills can benefit companies more than overhead savings. Sustainable commercial developments offer this advantage to businesses, leading to a greater return on investment, more funds to allocate for development, and providing better options to its employees.
Increasing Property Value In the commercial real estate market, energy-efficient developments frequently sell for a higher price than regular buildings with comparable features. Energy efficiency features and measures add value to your property.
According to the International Energy Agency, solar power is turning into the cheapest source of new electricity generation capacity in many countries, especially in Asia. It is also endorsed by frontrunners of sustainability and green real estate for the benefits it offers environmentally and financially. According to a study conducted in 2018, the Philippines ranked first among other developing countries in the continent in terms of the use of solar photovoltaic systems for electricity generation. It has topped Asia and ranked 5th in the world for the use of solar energy across various sectors and industries. RELATED: Capitalizing on Solar Energy: PH tops Asia, ranks 5th worldwide in solar energy use
JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the first commercial development in Cebu City to utilize solar energy to power its shared spaces. Committed to sustainability, this 22-storey premium green building is designed and constructed to promote and practice holistic benefits to businesses, the community, and the planet.
Interested in knowing more about the impact of energy efficiency on your business? Contact Alexa Abella at (+63) 917-825-6884 or email jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.
The office remains one of the most important aspects of business. In Gensler’s Workplace Index, four key areas in an office space were identified that employees need: a space to focus, collaborate, learn, and socialize. Additionally, factors such as lighting, functional space, and equipment can also affect their efficiency and motivation at work.
An office can also cultivate company culture and exude company branding. In fact, the workplace is one of the endemic ways a company communicates its essence to its clients, investors, and future employees. While a company’s identity and culture are not made up of tangible factors, research suggests that factors affecting an office space such as interior design, architecture, etc. can influence or even change an organization’s culture. Here are a few things to consider when choosing your business address:
Client & Employee Convenience Location plays an important role in choosing the best business address. It needs to be easily accessible to local commuters and your clients, but it should also be in a building or neighborhood that offers desirable amenities for your employees.
Most companies prefer locating inside central business districts for its proximity to key establishments and ease of access. JEG Tower @ One Acacia, Cebu City’s newest premium green building, is accessible through one of the metro’s main thoroughfares, Archbishop Reyes Avenue. It is also strategically located at the gateway of Cebu IT Park and Cebu Business Park.
Proximity to Talent Locating in a business address near colleges and universities is also a way of promoting your brand to the next batch of labor force. Having a steady pool of ambitious talent incessantly looking for opportunities and for making a difference can help you innovate and keep up with employment trends for your tenants.
Being in the heart of Cebu City, JEG Tower is located numerous educational institutions and campuses such as UP Cebu (1.2 km), University of Southern Visayas (2.0 km), University of Cebu (3.0 km), and Cebu Normal University (2.0 km)
Flexibility & Provisions for Expansion The new normal unveiled the perks of flexibility in the workplace. Gone are the days when employees are tied to an eight-hour work shift inside their office cubicles. Office spaces that support an open office layout are also preferred to encourage collaboration and socialization between workmates and employees.
Moreover, having the option to expand is also a plus for companies. Spaces that can physically accommodate businesses’ growth should also be a consideration especially in a dynamic and fast-paced business landscape. Brand Association Your office location can also tell a lot about your brand identity and what your company stands for. Job seekers today pay more attention to these details that can also contribute to recruitment and employee retainment.
As one of the frontrunners of sustainability in the Visayas, JEG Development Corporation designed and built JEG Tower @ One Acacia to be the best place to work in Cebu City. This 22-storey premium green building is also a show of support for homegrown skills and talents, showcased through its workspaces and common areas. Locate your business in Cebu City’s newest premium green building. Contact Alexa Abella at (+63) 917-825–6884. For leasing inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.
Cycling is a good way of practicing sustainability in daily life. As a form of exercise, an alternative mode of transportation, and a shared activity, riding a bicycle to and from your destination can benefit your health, the environment, and the whole community.
JEG Development Corporation (JDC) has always been an advocate for cycling, emphasizing its benefits to their tenants’ health, the environment, and the community. As the world marks this year’s International Bike to Work Day, JDC promotes the key benefits of riding bicycles to and from the workplace.
Here are some benefits of cycling:
Health Riding a bicycle regularly can help build and strengthen muscle, eliminate fat, lower blood pressure, and increase endurance. Many studies have proven the effectiveness of this form of workout in improving the overall well-being of individuals, having significant effects on both the physical and mental health of individuals.
Cycling can improve employees’ moods and help them have a positive start in the morning before they clock in for work. In fact, one study showed that employees who bike to work are more inclined to make healthy decisions throughout the day.
Moreover, riding a bike to work can ease feelings of stress, depression, or anxiety, which takes care of one’s mental health. It can also lead to improved cognitive function, better focus, and increased productivity.
Businessman on a bike. Business man leaving his work. From back.
Environment Cycling to work helps push forward sustainable transport. As an alternative mode of transportation to the workplace, it can lessen the need for cars and vehicles daily that severely contributes to air pollution and emissions of smog.
Opting to use your bicycle a few times a week, instead of your car, is one of the simplest ways to lower your environmental footprint.
As more people shift to cycling, the demand for safer bike lanes is also pushed forward. During the height of the pandemic back when there were limited transportation options, cycling advocates in the Philippines have called for fund allocation of at least 16 million dollars from the government to build 190 miles of bike lanes to protect riders. Through this initiative, there will be less demand for roads and expansion, but increased opportunities for less concrete and more green spaces in urban areas.
Community Cycling can significantly improve a community through public health and safety. Active transportation such as riding a bicycle can collectively improve public health and lower healthcare costs. More bikes on the road can mean fewer cars which can lead to a safer road environment.
Through its newest premium green building, JEG Tower @ One Acacia, JDC shows its support for a more sustainable option for its employees’ transport. The 22-storey office and retail tower offers bike racks on its parking floors for convenience and efficiency. Shower rooms are also provided for them to freshen up before coming to the workplace.
As part of its commitment to promoting holistic health and sustainability in Philippine real estate, JDC encourages more employers and developers alike to provide more options for their tenants. More than healthier and safer office spaces, JEG Tower @ One Acacia also looks after the community for the overall promotion of sustainable practices in Cebu City.
Join the sustainable shift and make your move to the best and greenest workplace in Cebu. Contact Gerold Fernando at (+63) 917-565-3547 to schedule a viewing today! For leasing inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.
As the majority begin to adapt to the new normal, many companies and organizations are starting to encourage employees to go back to the traditional work setup. One of the most crucial concerns of employees when returning to the office is their safety and health protection as COVID-19 is still present.
Employees have become more aware of the importance of shared spaces and have become more conscious of their well-being while in the office. Lessons from the pandemic and previous lockdowns reinforce the distinct value of green buildings, especially commercial buildings.
JEG Tower @ One Acacia is Cebu City’s newly launched premium green building. Designed by Casas+ Architects, it is pegged to be the best place to work in the heart of the Visayan capital.
“We have always planned to build a safer, healthier workplace for the Cebuanos, even before the pandemic. Moreso, our decision to go green was only validated by what happened during the last two years,” Marko Sarmiento, Chief Operating Officer of JEG Development Corp. said.
In 2020, the 22-storey premium green building was named Best Green Commercial Development in the Philippines by the PropertyGuru Property Awards. It has also achieved LEED Gold Certification from the US Green Building Council for its sustainable features including solar panels, DOAS elevators, floor to ceiling windows, water recycling facilities, and rooftop garden.
”With offices designed to integrate sustainability and sophistication, employees can enjoy green features, such as the use of natural daylight, optimal indoor air quality, and the roof deck garden, that all together provide greater support for employees to their psychosocial needs,” he added.
Asian office workers wearing face masks working in new normal office and doing social distancing during corona virus covid-19 pandemic
Office Rebound-ready
The last two years highlighted that going green is no longer aspirational, especially for buildings and shared spaces. Return to office plans should include providing a safer and healthier workplace to assure employees that they are protected and taken care of.
“We’re helping companies ease employees back to the office by making sure common areas are adequately sanitized and that the building has optimal indoor air quality, among others,” Sarmiento said.
With sustainable design and innovative technology, JEG Tower @ One Acacia offers commercial spaces that underscore the health and protection of its tenants. Focusing to pivot to the evolving needs of the workplace in the post-lockdown business landscape, JDC believes that intelligent utilization of technology mixed with people-centric spaces is the way to go forward post-pandemic.
Interested to know more about this rising icon of sustainability? Contact Gerold Fernando at (+63) 917-565-3547 to schedule a viewing today!
JEG DEVELOPMENT Corp. (JDC) is hoping its new “green” office building in Cebu City will address the needs of companies navigating the post-pandemic work environment.
The company recently launched JEG Tower @ One Acacia, a 22-storey office and retail development that boasts of eco-friendly and sustainable features.
“We’re confident our decision to go green will differentiate (the building) from others… JEG Tower hopes to capture the market of companies returning to office,” JDC Chief Operating Officer Marko Sarmiento said during a virtual briefing on April 21.
While office vacancy rates in the Cebu IT park are now at 20-25%, Mr. Sarmiento said he is confident the building’s focus on wellness would encourage more companies and their employees to return to the office.
“Nothing will replace being with your team…. JEG Tower has features that make it more attractive for workers to go back, like the roof deck, open spaces and the flexibility to design your office spaces,” he said.
Mr. Sarmiento noted they have seen increased interest in JEG Tower in the first quarter, a sign that business activity is picking up in the city.
“There’s more interest in the first quarter than all of last year. We’re hopeful,” he added.
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had prompted the developer to boost the project’s sustainability and wellness features, such as the use of natural light, reduced water usage and efficient waste management.
“It is set to become Cebu’s first commercial development to use solar energy, as we have entered into a 20-year power purchase agreement with COREnergy for a zero cash-out solar photovoltaic plant,” he added.
Ayla G. Gomez, JDC brand manager, said the company integrated intelligent technology in the building, and installed thermal scanners and automatic sliding doors in an effort to minimize contact touch-points.
To reduce the risk of infection in common areas, the building also included anti-bacterial fixtures and above standards filtration.
“Another unique sustainability feature that makes JEG Tower @ Acacia stand out is its Mitsubishi Destination-Oriented Allocation System (DOAS) elevators. DOAS elevators are developed to ensure strategic and safe movement within the vertical development, with innovative technology designed to utilize less energy consumption,” Mr. Sarmiento said.
The building also has a rooftop garden that the company hopes will give employees a respite from work.
CEBU CITY, Philippines, April 21, 2022 – Cebu-based real estate developer JEG Development Corporation (JDC) has finally launched JEG Tower @ One Acacia, the pioneer green, LEED Gold certified 22-storey office and retail high-rise development in Cebu City. JEG Tower @ One Acacia is JDC’s first venture into high-rise buildings.
JDC has always envisioned JEG Tower @ One Acacia to be a frontrunner in redefining the property industry in the Philippines by uplifting the lives and communities of Cebuanos, with a heightened priority on sustainability, holistic health, and employee well-being.
“JEG Tower @ One Acacia is characterized by its energy-efficient features, reduced water usage, and efficient waste management. It is set to become Cebu’s first commercial development to use solar energy, as we have entered into a 20-year power purchase agreement with COREnergy for a zero cash-out solar photovoltaic plant,” said Marko Sarmiento, JDC’s Chief Operating Officer.
Beyond showcasing a seamless fusion of sustainability and sophistication, JEG Tower @ One Acacia ultimately aims to revolutionize work-life balance, putting a premium on the welfare of tenants, employees, and the people of Cebu.
As businesses are more open to going back to the office, JDC has focused on addressing the evolving needs of the workplace, especially in the post-lockdown work landscape where hybrid work arrangements are considered the “new normal.”
“JEG Tower @ One Acacia is committed to providing the best workplace that addresses the physiological, mental, and social needs of its employees and occupants. We continuously invest in the quality of the work environment, as well as the health and well-being of our tenants, in a bid to help our tenants achieve increased productivity,” said Sarmiento.
With offices designed to integrate sustainability and sophistication, employees can enjoy green features, such as the use of natural daylight, optimal indoor air quality, and the roof deck garden, that all together provide greater support for employees to their psychosocial needs.
JEG Tower @ One Acacia features a green roof that can help reduce stress and encourage socialization, positively impacting the wellness of employees. These spaces will allow for relaxing midday breaks and can be a venue for wellness activities or social gatherings.
The roof deck’s endemic flora can also help bolster humidity levels to the 30%–60% range required for human health. The biophilic design of workspaces inside green buildings incorporates ecological aspects that minimize stress levels, reduce mental fatigue, and elevate moods.
“We’ve integrated intelligent technology into the building, utilizing thermal scanners, and automatic sliding doors have been installed in the main entrance. In place of manual contact tracing efforts, employees will use the free-standing scanners by the main entry point, while guests must get their temperature through a tabletop scanner available in the reception area,” explained Ayla Gomez, JDC’s Brand Manager.
Understanding the risk of infection in common areas, JEG Tower @ One Acacia added anti-bacterial fixtures and above standards filtration to minimize risks. MERV filtration has been installed to complement its energy-efficient heat, ventilation, and air conditioning system to improve indoor air quality and sanitation.
“Another unique sustainability feature that makes JEG Tower @ Acacia stand out is its Mitsubishi Destination-Oriented Allocation System (DOAS) elevators. DOAS elevators are developed to ensure strategic and safe movement within the vertical development, with innovative technology designed to utilize less energy consumption,” Sarmiento asserted.
With these eco-friendly features, JEG Tower @ Acacia earned a LEED Gold Certification from the US Green Building Council in 2021. The development was awarded 68 points, making it the highest-scoring LEED for Core and Shell project in Cebu.
Moreover, JEG Tower @ One Acacia also celebrates its Cebuano roots by showcasing the skills and expertise of homegrown businesses and industries–turning the space into a portfolio of Cebuano talents and heritage.
“We aim to support local players in the industry, which is why we have collaborated with local suppliers, consultants, and vendors in completing construction,” said Gomez.
“With this new development, we want to inspire other developers here in Cebu City to take the first steps in offering green, high-quality, and future-proof spaces that make people feel valued and protected,” added Sarmiento.
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.
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.
Commercial buildings use a lot of power. In 2022, a report by the UN Environment Programme found that the consolidated electricity consumption in building operations makes up nearly 55% of the global electricity consumption. In the United States alone, large office buildings use an average of 20 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity and 24 cubic feet of natural gas per square foot annually in order to operationalize.
Sustainability for Energy Efficiency
As an alternative, sustainable features are available to lessen the large-scale consumption of energy in the commercial sector. Energy efficiency is important to reducing greenhouse gases and carbon dioxide that contribute to climate change and global warming. Premium green buildings such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia in Cebu City are designed to limit energy consumption by incorporating innovative design and top-grade amenities to promote sustainability.
One of the most defining features of this 22-story iconic office tower is its solar panels, the first for commercial developments in Cebu. JEG Tower is set to utilize a 40 kWp Solar PV System from over 100 pieces of Polycrystalline PV Modules installed on the building crown. The system will be able to supply electricity to fully or partially power the lower ground floor to the 6th Floor.
“The idea of using renewable energy to power portions of JEG Tower was always intriguing to us and when the opportunity was there, it was a no brainer,” JEG Development Corporation (JDC) COO Marko Sarmiento said. “It is an important milestone for our company since it makes us the first developer in Cebu to have a solar roof deck installation on a high-rise office building. It is also consistent with our vision to be innovators in the industry.”
Solar panels reduce a building’s energy costs by harvesting solar energy throughout the lifetime of your solar panels, which can be twenty years or more. JEG Development Corporation has entered a 20-Year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with COREnergy for a Zero Cash-Out solar photovoltaics (PV) plant.
In its latest sustainability report, 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development in the Philippines recorded a 23% reduction in electricity consumption through its state-of-the-art variable refrigerant flow (VRF) air conditioning systems, Low-E glass window panels, and usage of LED lighting.
Solar Appreciation Day 2022
Every second Friday of March, the world celebrates Solar Appreciation Day to raise awareness and advocate for one of the most important resources the world relies on. During this day, initiatives to promote solar technology.
JEG Development Corporation joins the commemoration of this environmental initiative. As a LEED Gold certified premium green building, JEG Tower @ One Acacia champions solar energy, as well as the usage of renewable energy in the Philippines.
Cebu City’s economic recovery is expected to pick up and accelerate as the metropolitan remains under Alert Level 2.
In the latest resolution by the Inter-Agency Task force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID), the whole island province of Cebu shall be placed under the second most lenient lockdown classification until March 15. In February, the Department of Health recorded fewer active cases and a positivity rate falling to only 5%, with a daily average of 3.64%.
This is timely as more multinational investors express interest in locating in the economic stronghold of the Visayas. In a statement by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), demand for business in the province is steadily increasing as many foreign investors inquire about face-to-face meetings.
“These foreign and economic attaches see Cebu as an island that they will never ever forget. Businesses from their country put Cebu in their bucket list for investments,” CCCI president Felix Taguiam said.
He also noted that the chamber is hopeful that more investments will pour into Cebu as the province recovers from the pandemic and rebuilds after Typhoon Odette. “I can see activities, moving, trading, and everybody is smiling,” he also shared.
Cebu is also looking forward to the completion and inauguration of the the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX). This 8.9-kilometer infrastructure project offers an alternative route to Mactan-Cebu International Airport to the world-class resorts, beaches, and expansion opportunities in the economic capital of the Visayas. It is the country’s largest water-crossing infrastructure, built with a navigational clearance to allow larger vessels to safely cross underneath the bridge.
In the latest property report by KMC, many commercial and retail options will become available in Cebu City’s main business submarkets. As construction projects get completed, more office buildings, including JEG Tower @ One Acacia, will become available within this year. Cebu City’s commercial real estate portfolio has exponentially expanded over the years as more multinational companies expand operations and footprint outside Luzon and Metro Manila.
Looking for the best office to locate your business in Cebu City? Reach out to Gerold Fernando at (+63) 917-565-3547 or email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com today! to locate your business in Cebu City’s.