Defining Innovation in Real Estate

“The people of Cebu deserve so much more.”

This is the message that JEG Development Corp. (JDC)’s Chief Operating Officer, Marko Sarmiento wants to communicate when he and his family conceptualized JEG Tower @ One Acacia, Cebu’s first green building to join the growing number of Metro Cebu’s skyline.

“We have always wanted to do things differently. We want to pursue projects that are not only innovative but relevant as well. Our latest project, the JEG Tower, is a testament to that,” Marko told in an interview with Sustar.

Leading towards a Greener Cebu

JEG Tower @ One Acacia, the city’s first green building, is the Garcia-Sarmiento clan’s pledge to a better Cebu. Driven to push forward this initiative to become the new standard, JDC specifically designed this 22-floor tower towards sustainability which made use of environment-friendly materials and would operationalize as energy efficient as possible.

“We’re building a high-end, LEED pre-certified Silver, sustainable office retail building which we’re taking as both a huge risk and opportunity to do something different than anyone else in the game,” Marko said.

The 1,700-square meter tower, which will fully operate by 2020, is the corporation’s first step leading towards a greener Cebu. While the green movement is in full motion in Metro Manila, it remains to be tapped in Metro Cebu.

“Green developments aren't a standard yet in Cebu, but we want to take the initiative starting with this building,” Marko told the Freeman. “The green movement in the Real estate industry has so much potential, and I think the Cebuanos can benefit from it,” he said.

“I think we came in the right time,” Ayla Gomez, JDC’s Brand Manager adds. “The trend now is towards building offices and residences is geared towards sustainability.”

JDC’s long-standing presence in Cebu molded the family corporation’s vision to give back to the Cebuanos through their business.

“Constructing a green building is much more expensive compared to normal ones,” Marko admits, “but we’re doing this not with the cost in mind.”

“If they are building something, we are doing it the best way possible,” Ayla added.

Work-Life Balance Revolutionized

Hosting additional Grade A office spaces along Archbishop Reyes near the Cebu Business Park, JEG Tower is fit to house BPO companies and corporate offices in the South. The sustainable design of the building does not only benefit the environment but also takes care of the overall well-being of its occupiers.

Contributing not only to the productivity, but also the health and wellness of its tenants, JEG Tower @ One Acacia provides a lot of green spaces, bike racks, and shower rooms for them to use to their advantage. Its key location also prompts occupants of the building to have their dose of exercise needed by walking to work or to take some time off work and visit neighboring leisure establishments. The design also enhances interior space for maximum views and natural lighting to reduce energy costs.

“We’re going to locate our head office at JEG Tower too,” Marko shares, “We will also experience what our tenants will experience.”

By providing a working environment that improves the productivity and well-being of people, JDC continues to transform itself into a relevant and socially responsible real estate firm.

“It isn’t always about the bottom line but more about the greater good,” added Marko. “We just hope more developers do it. It would benefit the whole industry.”