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.
Office and design trends change and adapt over time. However, one constant feature of a workplace is its impact on the health and well-being of employees. As people spend almost a third of their lifetime inside office spaces, people begin to realize and put greater value in choosing a space that puts their wellness on top.
Numerous research has successfully linked space to the health of its occupants. The American Psychological Association (APA) reported in a journal that a healthy workplace should include five components: work-life balance, health and safety, employee growth and development, employee recognition, and employee involvement.
Moreover, many studies have also proved that workplace design significantly influences employees’ health, motivation, and performance. In one survey, 93% of the respondents said that they would stay longer at a company that offers healthier workspaces and benefits.
From employee attraction to retention and productivity improvement, your office space impacts your business. Here are some ways your workplace affects your employees’ health:
Mental Health A healthy workplace can help employees manage stress and relieve anxiety. According to commercial interior designers, certain aspects of the office can contribute to increasing motivation, boosting morale, and productivity. In an article, Gensler reported that biophilic and green features such as outdoor spaces and access to natural lighting can help reduce stress, anger, and anxiety. It can also lead to improved self-esteem and a better image of self in the long run.
Physical Well-being 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.
Providing optimal indoor air quality is also a crucial task for workspaces, especially in the new normal. Aside from disease prevention, fresh and clean indoor air can also improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety to employees.
Office spaces that also encourage movement and exercise can also improve the physical health of their occupants.
LEED-certified Buildings for Holistic Health
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.
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 well-being 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 with 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.
Bound by its commitment to uplift 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.
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. JEG Tower is designed and built to promote their physical and mental health.
As the highest-scoring LEED commercial development in Cebu City, this 22-storey tower ensures that the workplace design does not compromise the safety, security, and functionality of the space. Instead, it adds value to the often-overlooked aspect of design, which is to promote holistic wellness to its occupants.
Want to learn more about JEG Tower @ One Acacia? 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.
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!
Amid the celebration for World Water Day, several buildings are moving toward the development of greener and more sustainable buildings. In the Philippines, the shift to these kinds of premium real estate have proven to be more advantageous especially with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the eventual return to office.
Beyond mere structures, sustainable architecture now taps into minimizing the negative impact of buildings on the economy and environment. According to reports, this is accomplished through efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, water, development space, and ecosystem as whole.
This is the vision heralded in the recently completed JEG Tower @ One Acacia in Cebu. Apart from being at the forefront of renewable energy through solar panel installation, water efficiency and conservation is at the heart of the premium, award-winning green development.
The LEED Gold-certified tower has a rainwater collection system that increases the efficiency of water use in the building. In the data provided by the Innovative Water Solutions, rainwater system in buildings also reduce utilities costs and allocate treated water for more important use. It can also serve as a great backup water supply in emergency situations.
US Green Technology also reported that it is easy to maintain, can help with rainwater roof runoff and reduces groundwater contamination. It also has its many uses including being a source of irrigation for pocket gardens and other flora & fauna in the green building. JEG Tower @ One Acacia is one of the few buildings in the Philippines that transformed their topmost floor into a green roof that provides ample spaces to unwind or get a breath of fresh air.
Other utilization for the rainwater collection system is to use it in the common bathrooms. JEG Tower uses recycled water in flushing toilets to lessen costs further as it is considered one of the top users of water in any building or the average household.
As water security in the Philippines become a more vital issue, real estate is one of the sectors that are eyed to be at the forefront of the sustainability shift. Workplaces become more ideal if they promote environmental conservation, feature top-grade amenities, and green features that offer healthier spaces to locators and tenants.
Locate your business in Cebu City’s newest premium green building. Contact Alexa Abella at (+63) 917-565-3547. For leasing inquiries and more information, send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.
In 2022, nearly half of the global labor force will be Millennials, or those born between 1981 to 1996. In the Philippines alone, 41.1% of more than 66 million workers were identified as part of the millennial generation.
As the millennials start to dominate the landscape, businesses should also adapt their workplace to a space that suits their distinct personality and preferences. Many studies found that more than salary or climbing the corporate ladder, these young workers put higher regard to their work environment and company culture. Office spaces in Cebu City are also modifying the workplace to accommodate this younger batch of potential employees.
Here are five workplace design principles that will help you attract and retain a Millennial workforce:
Work Flexibility
Especially in the new normal, millennials enjoy the flexibility that allows better work-life balance and integration. Companies that offer flexible work arrangements are more likely to attract and retain this labor demographic as millennials feel that they should be able to work anytime, from anywhere.
Collaborative Design
In a study, 51% of millennials prefer to work in groups in person. Despite a hybrid work setup, many still want to work in an office to socialize and collaborate with their workmates.
Workplace Well-being
Compared to the previous generations, millennials put a higher premium on their health and wellness, even in the office. Companies that are also prioritizing the physical and mental well-being of their employees are also more ideal and would be more likely to retain millennials.
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.
More than being a ‘tech-savvy’ generation, smart and contactless technology in the office is an important consideration for millennials going to the office in the new normal. Smart offices are workspaces that utilize automated processes to enhance building operations, from ventilation, lighting, and security. All of these will be the standard in eliminating and reducing risks after the recent pandemic and other health threats.
Sustainability
A study in 2021 found that Millennials and Generation Z are more sustainability orientated, even if it is about work and employment. Healthy workspaces such as those that follow a biophilic design or offices located in LEED-certified buildings are also more appealing to millennials since these developments were designed and constructed through sustainable methods.
Premium green buildings and LEED-certified developments in the Philippines are the ideal office for millennials. In Cebu City, JEG Tower @ One Acacia stands out as one of the most ideal workplaces for its top-grade amenities and sustainable features. Named as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development in the Philippines, the 22-storey office tower offer healthy spaces to tenants and occupiers.
Locate your business in Cebu City’s newest premium green building. Contact Gerold Fernando at (+63) 917-565-3547. For leasing inquiries and more information, send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.
The new year is a perfect opportunity to start greener and healthier resolutions in the office. As the world continues to recover and adjust to a better normal, many companies and employees commit to being healthier and more conscious about public safety and the environment.
Here are some simple and sustainable New Year resolutions for a greener and healthier office and organization in 2022:
Go Paperless (as much as you can)
Going completely paperless may be a long reach but trying to limit the use of new paper or recycling old ones is always a good start. As companies transition to a hybrid work set-up, cloud-based apps and software can also be a good way of conserving paper.
‘Bike or Walk to Work’ Day
To lessen the emission of carbon monoxide, some countries observe a national “Bike to Work” day every May. This observance does not only raise the awareness of cyclists, but also promotes the health benefits of exercise and advocates for the protection of the environment.
Young Asian woman ride bikes to work she is happy and safe
Some office and commercial establishments, like JEG Tower @ One Acacia, advocates for this alternative by offering bike racks within the building and providing shower rooms on parking floors.
Organize Company Health Programs
To promote health, wellness, and camaraderie, employers can organize company-wide health programs and allot office hours for everyone to join. Various initiatives such as seminars, workout sessions, or mental health consultations can greatly impact employees’ holistic well-being.
Promote Public Health There is a renewed global recognition of the importance of health and wellness after the world experienced a pandemic. Public health has become a focus for policy makers, government units, and private organizations.
In a report by the World Health Organization, a safe and healthy community can be ensured through effective guidelines that are observed by a group of people at all times. Providing a workplace setting that uplifts and prioritizes the overall well-being and safety of its employees creates a significant impact on public health.
Commit to Green Initiatives Companies who want to shift to sustainability this year can start by committing to environmental initiatives. By getting involved in community-based programs and organizing projects for the environment, companies will not only greatly impact the cause but would also earn a brand image that takes care of the environment.
Conserve Energy
Conserving energy in the workplace does not only benefit the company’s utility costs, it also significantly benefits the environment. Premium green buildings, like JEG Tower @ One Acacia, address greenhouse gases by reducing the amount of energy required for building operations. With a whole-building approach, these establishments use energy more efficiently by utilizing top-of-the-line technology.
JEG Tower @ One Acacia advocates for the holistic well-being and safety of its tenants and occupants. Committed to revolutionizing work and life balance, the award-winning building offers office and retail spaces that maximize the use of natural daylight, allow better indoor air quality in all work and common spaces, and utilize solar energy for more efficiency.
Want to learn more about how JEG Tower @ One Acacia promotes sustainability and advocates for holistic health in the Philippines? Reach out to Gerold Fernando at (+63) 917-565-3547 or send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.
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 government anticipates its completion during the first quarter of 2022.
CCLEX is an 8.9-kilometer infrastructure project that offers an alternative route to Mactan-Cebu International Airport to the world-class resorts, beaches, and expansion opportunities in the economic capital in 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.
Dubbed as “The Third Bridge,” the project is spearheaded by the MPTC subsidiary, Cebu Cordova Link Expressway Corp. (CCLEC), in partnership with the local government units of Cebu City and Municipality of Cordova. The expressway has a design speed of 80 to 90 kilometers per hour and is expected to serve an estimated 50,000 vehicles daily.
Business leaders in Central Visayas have expressed their optimism over the socio-economic benefits to the province and the whole region once the CCLEX 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.
Photo from Cebu Daily News
Edward Du, governor of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) for Central Visayas, said that this new infrastructure is a potential solution to the notorious ‘Cebu traffic’ which significantly impacts economic activity and social mobility in the province.
“Knowing Cebu, the city will bounce back and go back to normal faster than the other provinces,” Du said, sharing how the business community looks forward to this new development as Cebu adapts to the new normal.
Felix Taguiam, president of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), also stated the CCLEX is “truly a sight to behold, and a positive force for Cebu’s economic recovery.”
CCLEX as seen from JEG Tower @ One Acacia‘s Rooftop Garden
In its quarterly property report, the Philippines’ biggest real estate brokerage and consultancy firm KMC Savills noted that Cebu remains to be an attractive location for businesses seeking prime talent in the Visayas. In 3Q/2021, improvements in the commercial real estate market were observed as landlords and tenants have had room to adjust amidst the two-year pandemic conditions.
Want to learn more about Cebu’s property market? Connect with us today. Reach out to Gerold Fernando at (+63) 917-565-3547 or send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com today!
The global health crisis has significantly highlighted the importance of health and well-being in a community setting. While public health has been one of the priorities of the government, COVID-19 emphasized how it should be a core concern when it comes to urban development and economic recovery.
In 2022, more companies are looking for sustainable and resilient solutions to better protect and better equip their workforce physically and mentally. Beyond pandemic resilience, the new normal office puts the spotlight on workplace wellness and safety for employees and building tenants. Here are some workplace wellness trends to expect in 2022:
ReinforcingWork-Life Balance
Prolonged lockdowns have left companies in and outside the Philippines to offer more flexible work arrangements. Contrary to the typical 8-5 office setup, many have enjoyed spending more time at home through a remote work setup, enabling them to reinforce work and life balance. This trend is expected to continue next year, as many companies consider decentralizing their workforce and provide more flexible options for their employees.
A hybrid office model means a mix of office and work-from-home setup, allowing employees to do more things outside of work. A study in the US revealed that the pandemic has significantly improved their work-life balance. Out of 1,010 respondents, 83% said that they currently have a positive work-life balance because of more flexible work options.
Focus on Mental Health & Stress Management
The new normal presents an opportunity to provide a better work environment for employees and support their mental well-being. Many studies show that office spaces impact the mental health and cognitive function of employees, especially as they face more stress and anxiety while working. According to research, employees inside a confined space for extended periods of time can suffer from mental burnout, demotivation, and added stress.
In a study, a healthy workforce can improve output due to lower stress levels and employee absences. A more holistic approach is also encouraged by some experts. In the same report, the corporate wellness program can go beyond physical, mental, social, and emotional needs. Mental health is an aspect that is most often overlooked by employees and employers alike.
Primary Care Benefits
Employees expect a more comprehensive healthcare and protection benefits from their employees in 2022. As the majority realized the importance of putting their health first and at the top of their priorities, one of the emerging trends in the new normal is the inclusion of primary care to the employees’ benefits moving forward.
Healthier Workspaces
With more employees being health-conscious, a future-proof workplace successfully incorporates sustainability, sophistication, and safety in its design and layout. Premium office spaces provide an additional layer of protection to its tenants against the virus and other threats to their holistic health.
Structural and technological upgrades help boost confidence and peace of mind, enforce protocols, and track activity for tenants to feel safer and be inspired at work.
Premium green buildings and commercial developments, such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, ensure that the workplace gives utmost importance to the health, safety, and holistic well-being of its tenants. With offices designed to integrate sustainability and sophistication, employees can enjoy green features that provide greater support for employees to their psychosocial needs.
Want to learn more about how the workplace can support employee well-being? Contact Gerold Fernando at (+63) 917-565-3547. For leasing inquiries and more information, send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.