post-pandemic Archives - JEG Tower @ One Acacia Cebu, Philippines

January 18, 2022January 18, 2022

CCLEX to aid economic recovery in Cebu in 1Q/2022

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!

October 19, 2021October 19, 2021

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.

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.

July 27, 2021July 27, 2021

How the office environment affects employees’ mental health

Before the pandemic, an average office worker spends 40 or 50 hours per week inside the workplace. As businesses prep for the new normal and business re-entry post-lockdown, commercial landlords and property owners begin to realize how the office space impacts and affects the overall well-being and safety of their employees.

The new normal presents an opportunity to provide a better work environment for employees and uplift their mental well-being. While most local and international guidelines and protocols focus on the safety of employees and reducing any potential exposure to the virus, it is also essential to consider how returning to the office will impact workers’ mental health. 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 long periods of time can suffer from mental burnout, demotivation, and added stress.

In a report by Entrepreneur, 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 when

Managing Stress and Anxiety

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.

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.

Experts suggest that providing areas when employees can take a break, relax, and socialize is a simple step in helping them cope with the workload better and reduce the feeling of burnout while in the workplace. In the post-pandemic timeline, companies should be careful in providing common and social spaces while still strictly implementing physical and social distancing measures to protect employees from contracting the virus.

Better Brain Function

Studies prove that the brain’s cognitive performance is affected by the environment it is in. Workplace strategists and design experts suggest that offering a multi-sensory design in the office can improve the employees’ mental health and boost their cognitive function. Stimulating people’s senses of sight, touch, smell, and hearing can lead to a better performance at work in a less stressful and overwhelming environment.

One research found that occupants of a healthy workplace scored higher in cognitive tests, slept better, and reported fewer health symptoms. Green features such as access to natural light, green walls, and optimal indoor air quality are also proven to significantly impact the employees’ thinking abilities, capabilities to focus, and retain information. Moreover, they are more productive and inspired to complete tasks at hand.

Premium Green Buildings for Mental Health

Premium green buildings and commercial developments, such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, ensure 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.

By providing safe spaces where tenants can relax, socialize, and reflect, JEG Tower @ One Acacia lives up to its vision of advocating for the overall well-being of its occupants while in the office. A healthy workplace should go beyond physical modifications and provide greater support for employees to their psychosocial needs. Backed by JEG Development Corporation’s vision of revolutionizing work-life balance in Cebu City, JEG Tower promotes the importance of mental health and stress management in the office and offers realistic measures on how to address it.

Want to learn more about JEG Tower @ One Acacia? Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884. For inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

July 19, 2021July 19, 2021

Safer and Better Normal: What’s the best workspace layout in a post-pandemic world?

The pandemic has forever changed the way people live and work. As the whole world continues to adapt to a safer, healthier, and better normal, the concept of effective and efficient workspace layouts has been challenged to incorporate health and well-being for its tenants.

As many companies allow a more flexible working arrangement, workplace strategists suggest maximizing the office space as a venue for socialization and collaboration without compromising the safety of its occupants.

Open Floor Layouts—with Restrictions

While some argue that the trend toward an open floor workplace design will begin to fade due to the threats of the virus, the idea of “openness” in the office can still be created through creating non-hierarchical spaces, a variety of flexible work environments, and space planning that encourages the sharing of ideas. An open office is still the best way to foster social relationships and open opportunities to build teamwork between colleagues. Workplace strategists, however, reiterated the importance of implementing physical and social distancing measures to protect employees from contracting the virus.

Layout 1: Open Office – Workstations are positioned in various configurations, some touching, others clustered in various sizes of work zones. Everyone in the office sits together, including managers, and discussions flowing freely across the open space.

Layout 2: Cellular Office – In this popular layout, the entire office space is divided into individual spaces (or cubicles) arranged for employees to each have private spaces. It provides a focused work environment and lends well to a systematization of office operations. Ceiling studs, windows, doors, or partitions are used to create individual spaces.

Layout 3: Co-working – Working without designated workspaces. You can assign desks to workers based on their assigned job. This arrangement can be ideal for promoting social interaction among staff members.

Workplace strategists added that a strict implementation of social and physical distancing guidelines in the workplace should be the key in implementing a well-balanced office for employees returning to work in the new normal. Office should still be an integral part of any business and its essence remains on the space it provides for employees’ mental, physical, emotional, and social needs while at work.

Smart and Contactless Workplaces

Many businesses adapt to the new normal by incorporating innovation and advanced technology in the office. Workspaces are slowly transitioning to become contactless or low-touch spaces to reduce the chances of cross-infection among colleagues. Smart offices are workspaces that utilize automated processes to enhance building operations, from air conditioning and heating, lighting, and security.

Building developers and commercial institutions should consider the benefits of new advancements in technology such as voice or motion-activated technology in office spaces and common areas like elevators, copy rooms, restrooms, and meeting rooms.

Future-forward commercial establishments such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, also integrate advanced technology to provide a smart and healthy workplace for its tenants and occupiers. JEG Tower @ One Acacia utilizes the MERV-13 air filters and Fresh Air System for optimal indoor air quality, which is one of the more crucial aspects of being in an enclosed space amid the pandemic. The tower also uses the Fresh Air System that ensures the comfort of its tenants. According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), building occupants with little or no access to fresh air end up being more exposed to pollutants indoors compared to when they go outdoors. HVAC systems tend to circulate and recycle old air rather than drawing new and fresh air from the outside.

Premium-grade office developments, such as JEG Tower @ One Acacia, are pivoting their office re-entry strategies and offering safer and healthier spaces for businesses and tenants. This 22-storey green commercial development in Metro Cebu uplifts the health and wellness of its tenants. Committed to revolutionizing work and life balance, the building has designed office spaces to maximize the use of natural daylight, allow better indoor air quality in all work and common spaces, and organize initiatives to encourage healthier living for everyone.

June 22, 2021June 30, 2021

Why JEG Tower is the perfect new normal workplace

Even before the pandemic, JEG Tower @ One Acacia aimed to offer the best workplace in Cebu City. As businesses are more open to going back to the office, this 22-storey premium office building has focused on pivoting the evolving needs of the workplace in the post-lockdown business landscape.

Defined by 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. According to the international health agency, “a healthy workplace is one in which workers and managers collaborate to use a continual improvement process to protect and promote the health, safety, and well-being of workers and the sustainability of the workplace by considering the following, based on identified needs.”

Optimal Indoor Air Quality & Contactless Technology

JEG Tower @ One Acacia utilizes the MERV-13 air filters and Fresh Air System for optimal indoor air quality. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values or MERV filters that can capture particles in the air from 0.3 and 10 microns (µm). Higher value in MERV ratings leads to better filtration, fewer dust particles, and other airborne contaminants. 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.

The tower also uses the Fresh Air System that ensures the comfort of its tenants. According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), building occupants with little or no access to fresh air end up being more exposed to pollutants indoors compared to when they go outdoors. HVAC systems tend to circulate and recycle old air rather than drawing new and fresh air from the outside.

To address one of the most common health and safety concerns in common spaces, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has also integrated contactless and smart technology in all office floors and common areas in the building. Automatic sliding doors have been installed in the main entrance for touchless access. Motion-sensor bathroom fixtures are also made available for tenants to limit contact to surfaces in public areas.

JEG Tower also has stationed hands-free standing and desk temperature scanners to ensure the fitness of each employee or guest entering the premises.

The Destination-Oriented Assignment System (DOAS) elevators do not only manage crowds and limit contact, boost building security, but also assist in easier tracing or monitoring of foot traffic in the building. It is also one of the tower’s unique green and sustainable features as part of its pledge to sustainability and green real estate in Cebu.

Advocates of Holistic Health and Employee Well-being

JEG Tower in Cebu uplifts the health and wellness of its tenants. Committed to revolutionizing work and life balance, the building has designed office spaces to maximize the use of natural daylight, allow better indoor air quality in all work and common spaces, and organize initiatives to encourage healthier living for everyone.

Named as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development in the Philippines, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is committed to providing a workplace that addresses the physiological, mental, and social needs of its employees and occupants.

By following global 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.

Locate your business in Cebu City’s newest premium green building. 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.

February 23, 2021February 23, 2021

JEG Tower @ One Acacia to launch its redefined ‘new normal’ workplace soon

JEG Tower @ One Acacia nears its completion and launch this 2021. Amid the pandemic, JEG Development Corporation (JDC) is working hard to deliver Cebu City’s newest premium green building to add to the region’s portfolio of sustainable developments.

The tower’s showroom on the 7th floor is also now open to accommodate interested tenants who want to locate in this award-winning green and pandemic-proof commercial establishment. The showroom is a sample retail unit on the lower floors of the building. Whole floor office cuts are also available for viewing.

As a culmination of Cebuano heritage and pride, JDC aims to highlight the following through its first high-rise commercial development:

Delivering The Best, Safest Workplace

This 22-storey, Grade A commercial development was named 2020’s Best Commercial Green Development at the 8th Property Guru Philippine Property Awards. Apart from being last year’s country winner, it is also shortlisted as the Philippines’ Best Office Development. With its future-proof and sophisticated features, JEG Tower offers one of the best business addresses within the Cebu Central Business District.

With the threats of the COVID-19 pandemic, JEG Tower has pivoted to adapt to the needs of a post-pandemic workforce. It utilizes top-grade technology to offer the best working environment to its tenants such as MERV-13 air filters, Fresh Air system for optimal indoor air quality, contactless fixtures, and provisions for additional sanitation and disinfection areas.

Standalone temperature checking stations are also placed in the main entry points of the estate to ensure the fitness of all tenants and visitors. Automatic sliding doors are also installed for a touchless access to the building.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia has also equipped the building with Destination Oriented Allocation System elevators as part of their contact tracing efforts and crowd management. It goes beyond just providing the most premium amenities but guarantees the safety of its occupants.

Showcasing Sustainability

As one of the few LEED-certified developments in the Visayan region, JEG Tower goes beyond being one of the frontrunners of sustainability and sophistication. Built with green materials and sustainable construction methods, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is characterized by its energy-efficient features, reduced water usage, and efficient waste management facilities. The tower is also remarkable with its unique garden rooftop that serves as a landmark in the Cebu City Skyline.

Showcasing Homegrown Talent

JEG Tower @ One Acacia has highlighted the skills and expertise of homegrown businesses and industries. Aside from pushing for sustainability, JDC also aims to support fellow local players in the industry. The company has collaborated with local suppliers, consultants, vendors in completing construction. In the process, JDC has become a partner for these businesses’ growth.

The 7th floor showroom also features pieces from Cebu-based furniture and design companies that were carefully curated to complement the building’s sophisticated design. Some of the furniture and decorative pieces in JEG Tower’s showroom also highlight Cebu’s rich heritage and culture.

Showcasing Cebu

Office tenants can also enjoy Cebu City’s views from their workstations provided by the large windows available in each unit. Larger windows are more ideal in a workplace environment as it allows maximum natural lighting for the employees’ comfort and health. Numerous studies have found that exposure to daylight and access to natural views improve employees’ moods and boost their morale.

More than its tourism and heritage, Cebu is also the Visayan Region’s economic center with its bustling central business districts: Cebu Business Park and Cebu IT Park. Located along the city’s main thoroughfare, JEG Tower captures the market from both business districts.

With its ideal location, world-class green features, and top-grade amenities, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the best option for companies looking for office and retail spaces in Cebu City.

Schedule a tour of our showroom today! Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 or send an email to lorenzo.rodriguez@kmcmaggroup.com.

October 14, 2020October 14, 2020

Beyond Green: Why you should expand to Cebu

Despite the severe impacts of the COVID-19 in the Philippines and subsequent lockdowns, Metro Cebu continues to prove its viability as the Visayan business center. Apart from its push for sustainability, the city’s holistic recovery picks up momentum as measures are put into place to contain the pandemic and ensure the health, safety, and business posterity.

Here are a few reasons why you should locate to Cebu:

Strengthened COVID-19 response
After a longer stay in Enhanced Community Quarantine, the Department of Health confirmed that Cebu has recently recorded its lowest number of cases last September 28, 2020, with only 3 confirmed patients. The local government through its Emergency Operations Center has been actively taking measures to contain the virus, contact tracing, and alleviate the number of active cases.

The EOC monitors areas or key locations with high foot traffic such as markets, supermarkets, construction, and government offices. Local officials have also actively implemented swabbing of locally stranded individuals and placed a testing station in Pier 1.

Safer Construction Practices
Workplace safety protocols are being applied across all sectors. Beyond offices, safer construction is also being pushed by the Cebu LGU. This action plan came after the high transmission observed among workers going on site.

Improved health measures are now being implemented such as swab testing shouldered by the DOH while food and isolation expenses will be carried by contractors or project owners. To further streamline the process of contact tracing, construction firms are tasked to assign a health and infection prevention officer.

Stricter implementation of physical distancing and monitoring of construction sites are also being done to protect employee welfare and guarantee safer spaces within the metro.
Push for Greener Cebu
Mobility has been a major point of concern as community quarantines have been implemented nationwide. There has been a rise in bikers in the city as an alternative for public transportation.

In support of energy-efficient and ecologically friendly initiatives, bike lanes have been marked and painted green to allocate space for two-wheeled, non-motorized vehicles depending on an area’s lane space. It will also encourage and ensure safer travel as it is separated by a white line from regular cars or transport.

Real estate developers have also actively pivoted their developments for more sustainable and resilient amenities or features. Commercial towers and offices such as JEG Tower are offering biophilic spaces and buildings to place the metro at the forefront of this green recovery that prioritizes the environment and the wellness of its occupants.
Healthier investment, business activity
Despite the challenges, future-proofing of investments has been a point of focus for local institutions and key stakeholders. In preparation for the post-pandemic landscape, new opportunities in infrastructure, water, and energy continue to move forward led by Vivant Corporation to better serve the Cebuano community.

According to reports, Vivant is looking for water supply solutions in parched areas in Cebu including other areas in the Philippines by looking at bulk water supply, distribution, wastewater treatment, and water engineering.

Cebu LGU also partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry in providing a support program for all enterprises including microentrepreneurs. Through the “SUGBO Negosyo” program, entrepreneurs can access seminars, and get assistance in business registration and other business development services.
Better workplaces
Cebu-based developments continue to produce premium spaces that foster a safe and productive working environment. Developers such as JEG Development Corporations are upgrading their building-based measures by adding touchless or contactless fixtures inside their high rise, JEG Tower @ One Acacia. Entryways are equipped with thermal scanners and automatic doors. Well-ventilated spaces such as pocket green spaces and unique green roofs are also made accessible.

They are also encouraging proper hygiene and sanitation to prevent transmission by leveraging smart technology. Its common areas with high foot traffic such as restrooms are equipped with sensor-prompted, state-of-the-art hand dryers with anti-bacterial additives. As a LEED-certified building, it has armed its offered spaces with MERV-13 filtration that will complement its top-of-the-line HVAC system.

Interested in locating to Cebu? Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 or email lorenzo.rodriguez@kmcmaggroup.com to discuss your options.

October 6, 2020January 11, 2021

How Green Roofs Help the Environment

Sustainable developments are growing increasingly in demand especially with the calls to act on Climate Change and the realization of the severe impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World Green Building Council, green buildings now go beyond the environment as it can also create resilient and thriving communities, and drive economic growth.

Advancement in climate-proof construction paves the way for more estates to adopt sustainable features. One of the widely considered amenities is the Green Roof. The US Environmental Protection Agency defined it as a layer of vegetation grown on the rooftop to provide shade, remove heat from the air, and reduce temperature on the surface.

More urbanized cities move to encourage green roofs on most buildings due to its main benefits: temperature and energy. US EPA reported that these roofs significantly lower the heat island effect during the day, and the city-wide ambient temperature. According to studies, it can drop temperatures by 30 – 40 degrees Fahrenheit lower than the conventional roofing.

Green roofs also prove to be more cost-efficient in terms of energy as developments record 0.7% less usage after it reduced electricity demand. This leads to annual savings of $ 0.23 per square foot of the roof’s surface, making it increasingly popular globally.

The shift to resilient and green buildings can also directly impact overall recovery. It can result in the creation of more job opportunities and boost economic growth further due to innovation to deliver appropriate technology and healthy manufacturing or construction activity.

The Co-Benefits of Green Roofs

The advantages of green roofs have a direct relationship to society and the environment. Apart from temperature and energy efficiency, it has a role to play in minimizing the risks of pollution and building better biodiversity in urban areas.

The plants in the green roof can help clean or purify the air that guarantees that communities within and outside the building breathe better. The reduction in ambient temperature makes the working environment cooler and produces a more comfortable indoor climate while lessening the demand on the air conditioning system. Building who use solar panels can also do well with a green roof as it maximizes its efficiency without the burden of high energy costs.

Green roofs can also act as a sound barrier. It can absorb sound that provides for quieter surroundings and less noise pollution inside and outside of the building. Enhanced property protection is also an observable selling point of a green roof as plants tend to create more moisture reducing the risk of fires, and it can also cover roofing material from external factors that can further extend its lifespan.

Increased biodiversity can also improve city environments as it becomes a habitat for birds, butterflies and insects, and plants. Such greenery also promotes healing and interactions. These spaces can help put people in better moods and trigger positive emotions while maintaining social interaction and movement in well-ventilated areas.

A Move Toward A Greener Philippines

The Philippines is at the forefront of installing green spaces or biophilic design in real estate. In Cebu, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is one of the few developments that take the responsibility of creating more sustainable spaces to protect the health and wellness of its community.

Developer, JEG Development Corporation is committed to bringing a greener approach to its high-rise tower. The addition of ground floor gardens, pocket green spaces for better ventilation, and a state-of-the-art green roof continues to herald its dedication to sustainability. Apart from a diverse curation of flora and fauna, a live tree will also be placed on the rooftop to further preserve the natural elements and biodiversity it carries.

Discuss your green building options today! Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443 or email him at mike.g@kmcmaggroup.com.

September 29, 2020September 29, 2020

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

As many industries move to expedite their recovery from the severe impacts of COVID-19, the inevitable return to the office has been a point of concern. Globally, sustainable developments have been recognized as a key contributor in helping more companies transition back to the post-lockdown world.

The World Economic Forum believes that a green recovery must be kickstarted. Apart from having access to healthier food or improved social mobility, sustainability is a much more resilient approach in planning infrastructure found in our cities and neighborhood. It is ideal to start constructing better structures or refurbishing existing ones for a greener space given its holistic benefits.

According to the World Green Building Council, green buildings could help in the fight against COVID-19 or any public health emergencies through two key elements: prevention and control. These estates go beyond the minimum health protocols of physical distancing and isolation through its building based measures.

Pushing for sustainable spaces cover the basics of community management, disinfection, environmental cleaning, access to medical assistance, and ventilation. Most green buildings feature natural ventilation, improved indoor air quality and filtration, and efficient waste management. It can also employ It Destination-oriented allocation system elevators and include biophilic design to their overall workplace design.

For LEED-accredited buildings, the efficiency of water, air, and energy systems are prioritized and monitored beyond cost or responding to the concerns brought about by the pandemic. As a pre-certified Silver LEED building, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has made sure that its Heat, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system are sealed even during construction. It also installed the MERV-13 filter to further protect the health of the occupants and the environment they work in.

As more buildings move to highlight their health performance, other developments add UV-C sanitation measures to their office or commercial amenities and fixtures. In Cebu, JEG Tower also takes notes of key disinfection measures dedicated to common areas such as the bathrooms. The building is equipped with the most-hygienic hand dryers that have HEPA filters and anti-bacterial additives to avoid contamination in their spaces.

Countless smart technology can be used to offer premium green offices. According to the Singapore Green Building Council, taking advantage of innovative systems, buildings will be able to adjust to the post-COVID-19 environment with improved safety and sustainability. This can be seen in sensor-enabled entry through automatic doors, self-check thermal scanners, and foot handles that can be utilized for a touchless or contactless experience that adds inherent protection to these spaces.

Beyond the investment in physical health and better working environments, patronizing a green recovery will also help boost the economy. According to the World Bank, it can bring more jobs in the short term and consistent growth in the long run as investing in natural capital, resource efficiency, and sustainable and clean energy production have a higher economic multiplier.

The shift to sustainability will definitely provide better opportunities to transition better to the new normal and grow a healthier community, safer spaces, and a much more resilient economy globally.

Looking to expand or locate to a green building? Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at +63 917 825 6884 or send an email to lorenzo.rodriguez@kmcmaggroup.com to discuss your options.

September 22, 2020September 22, 2020

Well & Green: How JEG Tower @ One Acacia delivers the best workplace in Cebu

The inevitable anxiety of returning to the workplace amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic becomes more pressing recently. More companies are looking to locate in premium offices that are safe and conducive for working without losing sight of occupants’ health and wellness.

A more sustainable approach to building construction has paved the way for making this possible. Going green is typically tied to being environmentally friendly. According to the World Green Building, real estate and construction are the top industries responsible for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions.

With the Net Zero initiative aiming for decarbonization by 2025, JEG Tower @ One Acacia goes beyond sustainable as it seeks to pandemic-proof its spaces with building-based prevention and control measures that benefit both the environment and the workforce. As one of the LEED buildings in Cebu, the tower is built from recyclable construction materials from steel to cement made from coal-fire powerplant waste.

Beyond the green aspect, it takes on the responsibility of ensuring that its immediate community is safe by adhering to minimum public health standards, physical distancing, disinfection, and biophilic design.

JEG Tower has focused on pivoting the evolving needs of the workplace in the post-lockdown business landscape. Through the intelligent utilization of technology, automatic sliding doors have been installed in the main entrance for touchless access to the building.

Thermal scanners in the tower are wired and can automatically take your temperature through a sensor without assistance. In place of 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 where they will also be asked to register.

Understanding the risk of infection in common areas where most people often congregate, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has added anti-bacterial fixtures and above standards filtration to minimize risks. MERV-13 filtration has been installed to complement its energy-efficient Heat, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system to improve indoor air quality and sanitation.

Frequent handwashing is also encouraged as the building’s bathrooms are equipped with the best and fastest hand dryers to date. Accredited by the NSF and HACCP International, the Dyson Airblade is recognized as the fastest and most hygienic due to its built-in HEPA filters, anti-bacterial additive, and touch-free operation.

Employing Airblade technology is also low on energy consumption and is environmentally friendly as it records up to 79% less CO₂and up to 76% less in paper towel use. True to its commitment to being an iconic green estate, it also allocated ample space to its Material Recycling Facility and has amply situated 5 recycling bins for paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass.

Moreover, according to the Singapore Green Building Council’s in-depth research, biophilia and views are one of the top seven facets often associated to a green and healthy office. JEG Tower @ One Acacia uses this concept to upgrade the working environment by designing spaces that allow for maximum views and natural light. It also features a green roof that can help reduce stress and encourage sociability and movement.

Explore your premium office options in Cebu. Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443 or send an email to mike.g@kmcmaggroup.com.

Tag: post-pandemic