GREEN property developer Arthaland is set to turn over the units of its Cebu Exchange tower this month, amid the global health and economic crises.
The company recently held the virtual structural topping-off of Cebu Exchange on Friday, Sept. 4, the first virtual topping-off ceremony by a real estate developer in the country.
Cebu Exchange is located along Salinas Drive across the Cebu IT Park. It is said to be the largest multi-certified green office tower in the Philippines with approximately 11 hectares of gross floor area.
The company said the handover of Phase 1 units will start in September 2020, as originally scheduled.
“In addition to our unwavering commitment to these sustainable features, we continue to deliver projects on time and with the highest standards for excellence in design and quality,” said Jaime González, vice chairman and president of Arthaland, in a statement.
Sustainable features
Cebu Exchange boasts of sustainable features that improve indoor air quality, building envelope optimization, and use of renewable energy as power source. It allotted 2,600 square meters of green open spaces through its terrace garden, sky park and penthouse that are spread across various zones.
Moreover, the tower will have its own independent greywater recycling system and materials recovery facility integrated into it. It will prioritize low emission building materials, low voltage lighting, water-saving plumbing systems and energy-saving air-conditioning systems.
“We look forward to becoming an integral part of the vibrant Cebu community. During these trying times, we hope Cebu Exchange makes a strong case for the need for more sustainable developments,” said González.
According to property research firm Colliers International Philippines, sustainable developments are becoming more popular as developers face the new demands of the new normal.
“Several developers in the Philippines have already recognized the significance of having a healthy work environment prior to the advance of Covid-19 and have invested in putting health and wellness certification systems in place such as the LEED Certification, and the WELL Building Standard. With the growing consciousness towards health and well-being increasing demand for ‘greener’ buildings, several upcoming office developments are now geared with sustainable and lifestyle-focused amenities,” Colliers said in its market report.
Arthaland said Cebu Exchange is on-track to be a multi-certified development, having already been pre-certified Gold for USGBC’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It is also registered under PhilGBC’s Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence, the IFC World Bank’s Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies and IWBI’s WELL™ Building Standard certifications.
While it is business as usual for Arthaland, the company said it is keeping in mind stringent health and safety protocol.
The company stressed that those involved in the construction activities are tested upon entry to the construction site and remain within the construction area under very strict protocol. They are provided onsite lodging accommodations during their entire scheduled work period. / KOC