Architects have a unique and important approach to sustainable development. In my own journey as an architect, I was an advocate of sustainability even before green development became trendy. I was aware of the consequences of unplanned development, pollution, waste management, and the permanent legacies of the built environment in cities, whether positive or negative.
Fortunately, that journey has led me to the Philippines, a progressive and dynamic country where I have been lucky to share my environmental vocation as a designer and developer. My company, Italpinas Development Corp (IDC), is proudly a design-forward developer of green buildings in the Philippines.
As important as architectural design is to IDC’s offerings, I feel that location and accessibility are equally important for design to truly make an impact. This is why IDC is focused on emerging cities in the Philippines. I believe that the Philippines is quickly becoming a highly developed, multi-faceted economy, with urban centers throughout (and not just in Metro Manila). At the cusp of this growth, emerging cities are truly the face of the future, where new modes of design and development can redefine Philippine urbanism.
With their innovative design and accessibility to the market, our first two projects were both located in Cagayan de Oro City. They were Primavera Residences, and Primavera City. Primavera Residences is a twin-tower, 10-storey mixed-use condominium complex. Primavera City is also a mixed-use development, featuring dining and shopping destinations, offices, and residences, and is designed for completion in four stages. Both have been warmly received by the market in Cagayan de Oro City for their innovative green features, high quality and affordability.
I am also excited to tell you we will be bringing our sustainable brand to the Southern Tagalog region through the Miramonti Green Residences in Santo Tomas, Batangas. IDC also achieved a milestone this year when we entered economic housing segment through the planned Verona Green Apartments, also in Cagayan De Oro City.
Just like our earlier products, these latest projects will be rated by EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies).
We are honored that our efforts have been recognized by reputable and prestigious organizations such as the International Property Awards, Asia Pacific. In 2015, IDC was awarded for Best Mixed-Use Development in Primavera Residences by the International Property Awards, Asia Pacific. In 2017, we emerged as winner in Best Mixed-Use Development for Primavera City by the International Property Awards, Asia Pacific.
As IDC, it is in our cultural DNA to care for the environment. The people working in IDC share the same values of promoting sustainable development.
I am glad that our message and advocacy of sustainability is resonating with younger people.
Applicants to our company tell me the reason they want to work with IDC is the fact that it supports and promotes sustainability in its work. In short, IDC walks the talk.
As we celebrate Earth Day this month, I agree that architects have a big responsibility together with engineers, planners and politicians to build a sustainable environment for the succeeding generations.
Everybody must be conscious and concerned about wasteful consumption, pollution, reducing carbon footprint and other major environmental concerns.
It is the responsibility of every individual to take care of our planet. There is no plan B because this Earth is our only home.
As Gandhi once said: If you want a change, be the change.
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