In the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila, clouds of smoke and a symphony of car sirens fill its highways and streets. One can only hope to get a breath of fresh air in the comfort of his home.

Small, collective actions can help in creating a better environment. This starts with choosing a house in the right location — somewhere near school or work, so you can lessen your carbon footprint.

DMCI Homes have more than 60 strategically placed properties in the country. According to a British study published in Iowa.com.uk, completing five trips of two kilometers a week on foot instead of on a vehicle can lessen the amount of carbon emissions by 86-kg a year.

Awarded one of the “Environmental Champions” this year by the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), the first Quadruple A real estate developer in the Philippines commits itself to successful ecological efforts through innovative solutions.

Their efforts could easily be seen just by looking at the building’s design. The vertical gardens in their properties serve as natural air purifiers, which absorb pollutants and help create a cleaner and fresher ambiance. They also provide a cooling effect, which means you can reduce the need for excessive air conditioning.

One of the notable properties that showcase the company’s green architecture is the Calinea Tower in Caloocan City, which is set to be completed in 2028.

Another key environmental initiative of DMCI Homes is the use of Lumiventt Design Technology, an energy-saving design that enhances natural airflow and lighting.

DMCI buildings also take water conservation and waste management seriously. Rainwater harvesting systems are incorporated into their projects. Through this, rainwater is collected and used to keep their lush green space beautiful and healthy. DMCI also encourages residents to take part in sustainable practices from the comfort of their own homes.

Gearing up for livable communities

Sta. Lucia Land Inc. (SLI), a leading developer of residential communities in the Philippines, brings these community-oriented environments to life as they build affordable houses and infrastructures across various regions.

The company is actively expanding into key cities nationwide, including the Calabarzon area, Dagupan, General Santos City, Iloilo, Palawan, Cebu and Davao, to lay a solid foundation for future mixed-use developments that integrate urban, residential and commercial spaces.

Bulacan’s 230-hectare Colinas Verdes is a testament to this, which has become more accessible due to the news thoroughfares, benefitting from the government’s Build, Build, Build program.

Another is the 26-hectare Yanarra Seaside Residence in Nasugbu, Batangas, which is now conveniently reachable via the South Luzon Expressway or Manila-Cavite Expressway (Cavitex).

Many developers, therefore, have anchored their projects on the P8-trillion infrastructure initiative, which aims to improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth in rural areas.

The property developer raised P4 billion of unsecured fixed-rate peso bonds, which have been used to secure strategic locations and actively sought new joint venture partners to meet this increasing market demand.

According to David Dela Cruz, SLI’s executive vice president and chief financial officer, the group’s rich history of over four decades has positioned it for more aggressive yet sustainable growth in coming years.