The office building also happens to be the third project with an EDGE certification for its developer, Robinsons Land Corp. 

Robinsons Cybergate Galleria Cebu has received an EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification, making it the first and only green building thus far in Cebu to have one. It is also Robinsons Land Corporation’s third project to receive an EDGE certification. 

The Philippine Green Building Initiative is said to have considered several unique features of Robinsons Cybergate Galleria Cebu. This includes the reduced window to wall ratio, reflective paint and tiles for the roof, and air conditioning units that employ Variable Refrigerant Flow technology.

The green building also uses LED lighting, low flow faucets, water efficient urinals, and a rainwater harvesting system.

Robinsons Land Corporation’s Senior Vice President and General Manager for Offices and RL Commercial REIT, Inc. President, Jericho P. Go, released a statement on the latest EDGE certification the company’s projects have received. 

“We are committed to reduce our carbon footprint and this is very much aligned with the sustainability goals of our tenant partners as well,” he says in the statement. “As we build offices of the future, we need to ensure that future generations will get to experience and enjoy these too.”

What Is EDGE Certification?

Created by the International Finance Corp, a member of the World Bank Group, EDGE is meant to encourage “emerging markets to scale up resource-efficient buildings in a fast, easy, and affordable way,” according to its official website. 

“EDGE enables developers and builders to quickly identify the most cost-effective strategies to reduce energy use, water use and embodied energy in materials,” it explains. 

Companies who are interested in receiving EDGE certification can choose among three levels: EDGE Certified, EDGE Advanced, and Zero Carbon. Buildings with 20% or more savings in energy, water and embodied energy in materials can qualify for EDGE certification. On the other hand, EDGE Advanced buildings are those that are zero-carbon ready. 

Green Buildings in the Philippines with EDGE Certification

As of press time, there are more than 10 buildings in the country that have at least EDGE certification. Of these buildings, those that fall under the EDGE Advanced level include the Victoria Highlands Subdivision and the Menarco Tower, according to the EDGE Buildings website. 

Examples of buildings here in the country that have reached the EDGE Zero Carbon level are the ArthaLand Century Pacific Tower and the NEO Portfolio. 

With the effects of global warming and climate change becoming more and more apparent in recent years, different efforts geared towards taking better care of the environment have become critical. Developers who’ve built environmentally friendly structures show that development and caring for nature can go hand-in-hand in creating a more sustainable future for all.