Economic Benefits of Energy Efficiency

 
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. 
 
READ MORE: How can solar power reduce building costs? 
 
 
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

JEG Development Corporation Launches JEG Tower @ One Acacia, the First Premium Green and Future Ready Building in Cebu City

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. 

JEG TOWER

“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. 

The Ideal Millennial Workplace

The-Ideal-Millennial-Workplace

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.

RELATED: What is a ‘Healthy Workplace’? 

Top-grade Smart Technology 

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. 
 
RELATED: Future-proofing your Office with Sustainability 

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
 

How can solar power reduce building costs?

How can solar power reduce building costs?

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. 
 
READ MORE: JEG Tower achieves LEED Gold, set to become Cebu’s First Commercial Development to use Solar Energy 

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. 

Future-proofing your Office with Sustainability

Future-proofing-your-Office-with-Sustainability

Changes brought by the pandemic to the lives of people have further inspired and pushed developers to future-proof spaces they offer. For businesses to adapt to the changes presented by unprecedented circumstances, spaces should allow innovation and anticipate future modifications to further support companies and provide its needs to operate. 
 
As defined by McKinsey, future-proofing an office and an organization is looking ahead of design trends, making use of innovative technology, and anticipating to minimize risk and adapt to changes in the future. Penketh Group, a workplace design and strategy organization, also noted that future-proofing workplaces is a “form of damage control used to reduce any barriers, limitations or negative consequences as time ticks on and industries evolve.” 
 
Future-proofing for Millennials 
 
Organizations and businesses in the Philippines begin to realize the importance and crucial role of the workplace to the health, safety, and productivity of its employees. As the labor force shifts to a new demographics, priorities in employment and retention have also changed. In 2021, an estimate of 47.1% of more than 66 million Filipino workers were identified as part of the millennial generation. Dubbed as the “Job-hopping Generation”, Gallup reported that more than salary and climbing the corporate ladder, millennials prioritize a company’s culture and a good workplace. 

Future-proofing-your-Office-with-Sustainability-2

Future-proofing & Sustainability 

Future-proofing a workplace goes hand in hand with sustainability. More than just a construction and design trend, sustainability has become an encompassing approach to maintaining an optimal space for employees and taking care of their holistic well-being.  
 
Green and sustainable features secure an organization’s future and significantly impact the health, wellness, and safety of its occupants. Here are some ways sustainability contributes to future-proofing your office:  

Smart Technology 

Smart technology will be one of the requirements for workplaces in the new normal. Smart offices are workspaces that utilize automated processes to enhance building operations, from air conditioning and heating, lighting, and security. All of these conveniences will start to be the standard in eliminating and reducing risks after the recent pandemic and other health threats. 
 
Premium green buildings utilize this innovative solution through voice-controlled elevators, remotely operated printers, and increased use of sensors throughout offices would substantially reduce workplace risk. In more secured offices, emerging technologies such as facial recognition can further reduce contact and exposure among colleagues. 
 
RELATED: https://jegtower.com/the-future-of-workplace-contactless-features-and-smart-technology/ 

Optimal Indoor Air Quality 
 
Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, related to the health and comfort of its occupants. Research emphasizes that this is an important factor in providing a safe and healthy workspace for employees post-pandemic. 
 
Many studies have made direct correlation with better pandemic response and providing an improved indoor air quality. Premium green buildings like JEG Tower @ One Acacia utilizes the MERV-13 air filters and Fresh Air System for optimal indoor air quality. As a LEED Gold establishment, the 22-storey premium green building in Cebu City uses these top-grade filters that capture particles in the air from 0.3 and 10 microns (µm). Higher value in MERV ratings leads to better filtration, fewer dust particles, and other airborne contaminants.  
 
The tower’s MERV13 filter is one of the highest-grade filters in the industry that promotes an ideal indoor environment and eliminates the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, or fungi. 

Waste Management & Recycling 

Green buildings also prioritize proper waste disposal and recycling. In the Philippines, one of the frontrunners of sustainability, JEG Tower @ One Acacia collects and stores waste materials for recycling, including the diversion and demolition of debris from disposal in landfills and incineration facilities. Instead, these recyclable construction materials are redirected back to the manufacturing process and appropriate reclamation sites. This process reduces demand for virgin resources and further reduces the environmental impacts of resource extraction, processing, and transportation. 

Biophilia 
 
One of the simplest requirements for building a biophilic office is the introduction of plants and greenspaces within the work area. By introducing plants, either in pots or in the form of living green walls into the office environment, indoor air quality is improved as the vegetation can help in absorbing pollutants, toxins, and disease-carrying viruses. This can complement a building’s air filtration system that optimizes disease prevention. 
 
Biophilic designs in workplaces also feature large windows that allow maximum natural light. Many studies have linked this design to improved productivity, motivation, and overall happiness and satisfaction of employees in the office. 
 
READ MORE: https://jegtower.com/the-importance-of-biophilic-design-in-a-post-lockdown-office/ 

Well-being Programs 

To further improve the overall well-being of its tenants, premium green buildings also offer opportunities and programs that directly affect their health. 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. 

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.  

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

Creating People-Centric Public Spaces in the Philippines

For decades, the human factor in creating public spaces has been overlooked and haphazardly addressed until the COVID-19 crisis. Over the last two years, the way of life has been changed drastically, inspiring modifications and adjustments in the way people live, work, and play. The pandemic has highlighted the need for more people-centric public spaces that will prioritize and improve the health, safety, and protection of the people in the new normal. 

What are People-Centric Public Spaces? 
 
People-centric or human-centered public spaces are spaces that are designed to provide tailor-fitted solutions to the needs of the public, providing resources that protect their interests. Since the crucial role of public health was also emphasized over the pandemic, more have been advocating for more people-centric public spaces in the Philippines. 
 
Even before the pandemic, the call for the creation of these spaces was clear. In 2016, the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development conducted Habitat III, a conference where world leaders, policymakers, and advocates convened and echoed the need for “safe, inclusive, accessible, green, and quality public spaces, including streets, sidewalks and cycling lanes, gardens, and parks that are multi-functional areas for social interaction and inclusion, human health and well-being, economic exchange, and cultural expression and dialogue” 
 
Green Real Estate and People-centric Designs 

The COVID-19 pandemic also drove a significant change in real estate on a global scale. Sustainability was no longer a ‘trend’ in the industry that focuses on environment conservation, but also became a guiding principle in creating people-centric designs and promoting the health and safety of building occupants and tenants. 

RELATED: Optimizing Buildings for Disease Prevention 
 
Green buildings or developments that were designed and constructed following sustainable measures and operating through energy-efficient means became synonymous with healthy spaces that protect lives with resiliency, safeguard well-being, and amplify human experiences. 

As one of the most essential public spaces shared by a community, office and commercial developments remain as crucial points for public health and safety. Due to the pandemic, Buildings today give more emphasis to the health and wellness of their tenants. While other offices will only start implementing such changes to cater more towards well-being, LEED-certified buildings have long been uplifting the quality of the work environment and promoting the health and well-being of their tenants—during a health crisis and beyond.  
 
LEED-certified developments optimize space for disease prevention. With its unique green facilities and top-grade amenities, tenants inside premium green buildings enjoy optimal indoor-air quality, exposure to natural light, access to green spaces, and contact-less facilities that are key in workplace wellness and safety. 
 

READ MORE: Why LEED is a big deal in the Philippines 

 
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

Sustainable Real Estate: Why You Should Work in a Green Building

The COVID-19 pandemic has reemphasized the importance of public health within communities. The global health crisis highlighted how the environment and space people occupy can directly affect their health significantly. In the middle of a global climate and health crisis, promoting sustainable spaces is more crucial than ever. Green and sustainable workspaces do not just benefit the environment, they greatly impact the people in them as well.


Why You Should Work in a Green Office

Much research has found a link between a safe and healthy office space and design with the overall well-being of its occupants. From health benefits to productivity boosts and the obvious environmentally friendly impact, here are more reasons why employees should work in a green building:

Health Benefits

Providing plants and real greenery is one of the easiest ways of gradually transforming an office into a green space. Studies as early as the 1960s proved how plants can drastically improve the air quality in a contained area. A study conducted at Washington State University revealed that incorporating plants in office spaces can reduce dust levels by as much as 20%, as the plants remove particulate matter from the indoor environment. Office 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 mood.

Increased Productivity

Having large windows that allow maximum natural light to come into the space also positively impacts the wellness of employees. Exposure to sunlight was proven to increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin. Serotonin is associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused, improving morale and productivity.

A study from Northwestern Medicine and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign also discussed how improved indoor environmental quality doubled their participants’ cognitive function and boost creativity.

Friend of the Environment

In a press release, UN Environment has highlighted how buildings are a key driver of energy demand globally.

Green buildings are designed and constructed to significantly reduce global emissions, as the buildings sector is responsible for around 39% of all energy-related CO2 emissions and 36% of final energy use.

Sustainable real estate is an effort to reduce the grave impact of buildings which accounts for 40% of greenhouse gas emissions and 20% of all solid waste generation in developed countries, according to the United Nations Environment Programme.

RELATED: Workplace Re-Entry 101: Why choose green buildings as your next office

Premium green buildings, such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, invest in the well-being of its building occupiers by addressing health and wellbeing in a holistic approach. By following industry-set standards and optimizing building design and operations, it is one of the most ideal locations to work in Cebu City. JEG Tower puts a premium on its tenants’ health while practicing sustainability and energy efficiency.

Named as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development in the Philippines, this 22-storey tower has achieved its LEED Gold Certification from the US Green Building Council. With 68 points, it is the highest-scoring LEED 2009 project in the province.

Contact KMC via jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com for leasing inquiries and more information today!

Redefining Work-Life Balance in the New Normal

If there is something positive that came out of the COVID-19 pandemic, experts agree that it is emphasizing the importance of employee health and safety, exploring the possibility of a more flexible working arrangement, and reiterating the importance of space – especially in the office.

As more economies and industries reopen in the new normal, many companies and businesses are becoming more aware of their responsibilities in taking care of and prioritizing the well-being of their employees. As an effect of the long-term remote work scheme, most employees have also realized the importance of work-life balance.

What is Work-Life Balance in the New Normal?

Mobile devices, cloud sharing applications, and video conferencing platforms have played key roles in making remote work possible during lockdowns. As modern technology offered this possibility and convenience, it also further blurred the line that separates work and the private lives of many workers. In an article published by Forbes Magazine in May, many employers and employees alike reported burnout because of this. International corporations and even local businesses have recognized how “the blurring of lines between home and work and the relentlessness of the pandemic workday have taken a toll on their well-being.”

Redefining work-life balance in the new normal became crucial for companies in order to address it better during business re-entry. With the transition to a more flexible work arrangement, work-life balance now emphasizes the importance of working efficiently without sacrificing the employees’ health and wellness. Work-life balance in the new normal should also highlight rest and strengthening one’s immune system as protection against the virus. Moreover, it should also focus on working within safe and healthy workspaces.

Healthy Spaces for Work-Life Balance

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a healthy post-pandemic workplace should be a balance of occupational health and safety, as well as health promotion efforts and initiatives.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia was designed and built with its occupiers’ health and safety in mind. Even before the pandemic, this premium 22-storey commercial establishment aimed to offer the best workplace in Cebu City.

Homegrown developer, JEG Development Corporation (JDC), has focused on pivoting the evolving needs of the workplace in the new normal and has incorporated systems, fixtures, and technology to inspire work-life balance and provide a safe space for its tenants.

READ MORE: Future-Proof Workspaces: Office Must-Haves in the New Normal


Through the intelligent utilization of technology, sustainable design and construction methods, and integrated and holistic approach to the well-being of its occupiers, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the perfect new normal workplace in the heart of Metro Cebu. This premium green building was named 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development in the Philippines for its design and utilization of top-grade amenities to elevate the experience of its tenants. It also recently achieved a LEED Gold certification, making it one of the most sustainable developments in the country.

Looking for a safe workplace post-lockdown in Metro Cebu? Reach out to Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884. Schedule a viewing with us today by calling (+63) 2-8403-5519 or sending an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.

Why LEED is a big deal in the Philippines

As the emerging climate crisis continue to loom in the near future, sustainability and discussion of ecological conservation have been a matter of discussion around the world. In Asia, the Philippines is one of the countries in the region aiming to achieve the “Zero Energy Buildings” goal.

This goal is widely adopted by several countries their respective developers in response to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. In the IPCC report, buildings can play a big role in halving global carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 to reduce the risk posed by the climate crisis.

To reach this goal, more premium has been placed on accredited green buildings in the Philippines through the internationally recognized US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. This enabled shift toward a greener and more sustainable estate that has placed a greater value in terms of climate resiliency, build quality, and overall tenant satisfaction.

The LEED certification has been competitive edge carried by selected buildings carefully assessed by the USGC. Here are some of the unique characteristics enjoyed by LEED-certified buildings:

  • Promoting cost efficiency and environmental conservation

LEED buildings often have unparalleled sustainable features during their full life cycle. It uses recyclable or natural resources in construction materials and has energy and water-efficient amenities without losing sight of tenant safety and comfort.

According to a 2014 Berkeley study, green buildings contribute fewer greenhouse gases by 50 percent. In the Philippines, some office and commercial buildings have adopted ecological-friendly designs to improve energy and water efficiency with rainwater collection and onsite renewable energy.

RELATED:Capitalizing on Solar Energy: PH tops Asia, ranks 5th worldwide in solar energy use

Buildings become good investments with the smart use of resources and significantly 20% lower operating and maintenance costs as stated in the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report. These provide tangible benefits to property owners and developers in the long term.

  • Developing better buildings for better tenants

LEED buildings are known for implementing cutting-edge architectural design and smarter space design to meet sustainable and aesthetical standards. Despite the utilization of recyclable or renewable resources, tenant satisfaction and employee morale are boosted through its maximized use of natural lighting and the creative placement of green spaces that add to its overall aesthetic value.

In the US, asset value also increases as businesses are often willing to pay more just to stay in a LEED structure given its benefits in occupant safety and comfort. Attracting a better tenant pool since locating in a green building also helps most corporation or companies achieve their Environmental Social Governance (ESG) goals.

RELATED:Why JEG Tower is the perfect new normal workplace

  • Pushing for health and wellness

With the implications posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, public health and wellness became one of the top priorities of most companies. While green buildings are good for the environment, it has also contributed greatly to ensuring occupants or employees are better taken care of.

Through automation and a better filtration system, touchless fixtures and amenities are made available along with the improvement of the indoor environment and air quality. Cleaner air reduces the risk of transmission and prevention of respiratory illnesses.

Exposure to fewer toxins or pollutants and access to lush green spaces help reduce tress,resulting in a happier and more productive workforce.

Ready to be our partner for a greener future? Locate in a LEED building such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia today. Contact Lorenzo Martin E. Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825–6884. For leasing inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

Cultivating Green Traditions: JEG Development Corp. holds 5th annual tree planting activity in Cebu

JEG Development Corporation (JDC) held its 5th annual tree planting activity in Tabunan, Cebu City last Saturday, September 25.

In line with the company’s vision to promote sustainability and the protection of the environment, the homegrown Cebuano developer has been actively spearheading similar events that encourage a hands-on approach for its leaders, employees, and personnel.

“Tree planting is one of the simplest but most impactful ways to give back to nature and help ensure that Cebu’s greenery continually expands and thrives for generations to come,” Ayla Gomez, JDC’s Brand Manager shared. “The activity also fosters camaraderie with the employees and helps them put into action what our core values are.”

This year, JDC and JEG Tower @ One Acacia employees planted Guyabano tree seedlings which also aims to provide food for wild animals and sustain the local ecosystem. Guided by the company’s core values, this annual event is their commitment to a multi-generational perspective in leading the organization.

“We always encourage them to bring their kids, significant others, and family members along to pass on the traditions and learnings to the next generation. Through the years, it has become a family bonding experience that leaves everyone feeling proud and encouraged to keep protecting our home,” Gomez added.


JDC is also the name behind JEG Tower @ One Acacia, Cebu City’s newest premium green building. This 22-storey LEED Gold certified commercial and office building is the company’s maiden high-rise development that offers world-class workspaces that revolutionize work and life balance.

Named 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development in the Philippines, JEG Tower is an upcoming crown jewel in Cebu City’s skyline with its unique rooftop garden, iconic shape and layout, and the latest workplace technology.

Its outstanding green features, sustainable design and construction practices led to its LEED Gold certification, making it one of the standard-bearers of the developer’s commitment to green real estate. The tower uses green techniques and applies extensive plans for soil erosion, waste management, and air quality. Aiming to create a less polluted environment leads to better public health, which is very crucial in the post-pandemic era.

Want to learn more about how JEG Tower @ One Acacia promotes sustainability in the Philippines? Reach out to Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63)-917-825 6884. For listing inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.