cruz - occupational and skills needs in the green buildin

8/7/2019 Cruz - Occupational and Skills Needs in the Green Buildin

1/38

1

BERDE WORKING PAPER SERIES

OCCUPATIONAL AND SKILLS NEEDS IN THE

GREEN BUILDING SECTOR IN THE PHILIPPINES

Christopher Cruz de la Cruz

Working Paper 2011-003

PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL

BERDE TECHNICAL WORKING GROUPThe Net One Center, 26th Street corner 3rd Avenue, Crescent Park West,

Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City

March 2011

The BERDE Working Paper Series (BERDE-WPS) are preliminary findings on ongoing researchrelated to the development of the BERDE Green Building Rating System. BERDE-WPS is released bythe Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC) to stimulate discussion, elicit feedback and promotecollaborative research among the members of the PHILGBC.

Comments, suggestions and/or inquiries regarding this paper may be sent directly to the author. Tocontribute articles to the working paper series please send your inquiries to [email protected]. The

views expressed in this paper are those of the authors and not necessarily reflect the views of thePhilippine Green Building Council.

The Author 2011. Published by the Philippine Green Building Council. All rights reserved. Forpermissions, please email:[email protected].

Short sections of text may be quoted without explicit permission provided that full credit, including notice, is given to the source.
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


2/38

2

OCCUPATIONAL AND SKILLS NEEDS IN THE

GREEN BUILDING SECTOR IN THE PHILIPPINES

Christopher Cruz de la Cruz*

March 2011

1 Executive SummaryThe worlds rapid transition into a global economy has resulted into a remarkable

increase on construction activities. The worlds finite natural resources are fast depleting and

leading scientists worldwide are sounding a plethora of environmental issues largely related to

climate change. This condition is largely felt in a highly vulnerable developing country like the

Philippines. Air, land and water pollution, rapid population growth, along with climate change

remains a challenge. There is a mounting solid waste management problem in the countrys city

centers, an impending national energy crisis, and rapid depletion of water resources. Further,

significant economic loss is experienced, (Calonzo 2009; Evangelista 2009; GMA News 2009)

brought about by typhoons Ondoy (Ketsana) and Pepeng (Pharma). Furthermore, virtually all of

Philippine reefs are vulnerable to destructive fishing techniques, reef mining, sedimentation and

marine pollution (IPCC 2001).

Striking a balance between economic growth and environmental protection and

conservation is a difficult issue that developing economies like the Philippines is facing. Among

provinces and districts in Southeast Asia, Metro Manila is the 7 th most vulnerable to the negative

impacts of climate change (Andraneda, 2009).

There is a clear and present funding triage experienced by government - a dilemma of

prioritizing among a list of concerns such as: (1) funding basic needs (healthcare, education,

*Christopher Cruz de la Cruz is the Chairman and President of the Philippine Green Building Council. Author may be contactedby email [email protected] . The Case Study on Occupational and Skill Needs in the Green Building Sector was fundedby the International Labour Organization under External Collaboration Contract No. 40070714/0. The author would like toacknowledge the invaluable assistance of Chester de la Cruz and Anna Tungol of the Philippine Green Building Council in thegeneral coordination and administration of the study and the respondents representing the academe, employers and associationsfor their expertise and insight shared during the conduct of the study.
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


3/38

3

public housing, poverty alleviation); (2) funding activities that promote economic growth and an

environment that will stimulate job creation to support a growing population; and (3) providing

funds that will allow the country to adapt to the negative impacts of climate change. Further, as

urban centers expand, the demand for more energy, waste and water facilities continuously

confront the public sectors decision makers with the challenge of raising funds for more

infrastructure projects.

Green building1 has the highest potential to address the above-mentioned issues (Huovila

2009). Energy technologies are now available that are appropriate and economically viable.

However, the uptake of green building is continually challenged by (1) high up-front costs for

more efficient equipment, (2) lack of access to financing, (3) absence of energy subsidies, and(4) lack of full understanding of the environmental, health and other external costs (Koeppel and

rge-Vorsatz 2007).

A green building industry supported by a strong public energy efficiency program

facilitates the creation of additional negawatts2 that effectively delay the need to construct a

new power plant. Efficient solid waste management in buildings, during both construction and

operation, will delay, if not lessen, the demand for the creation of new landfills. Governments

support to widespread promotion of green building has the potential to free up public funds thatallow the creation of financial mechanisms that may support other national priorities such as

public education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation that will facilitate and hasten economic

growth.

It is understood that the private and public sectors around the world are realizing that

ensuring a sustained economic growth largely depends on producing less carbon and more jobs

(Asia Business Council n.d.). The Philippine Institute of Labor Studies (ILS) (Cruz 2009, cited

in Finkel 2010) defines green jobs as jobs that contribute to a climate solution. Green

building has the most potential to aid in the creation of green jobs. The construction industry

1 Green building is the act of designing, constructing, and operating buildings, ensuring that it will be environmentallyresponsible by utilizing the least amount of resources, and ensure occupant health and safety throughout its lifecycle.2 Negawatts simply refer to the creation of additional power via energy conservation.


4/38

4

presently plays host to wide array of jobs such as (1) unskilled labor, (2) skilled labor (e.g.

carpenters, electrician, plumbers, etc.), (3) building professionals (e.g. architects, engineers,

project managers, building managers), (4) manufacturing professionals (e.g. material specialists,

fabricators, etc.) (6) business-oriented professionals (e.g. finance, banking, etc.), (7) certification

specialists (e.g. certification consultants, assessors).

The International Labour Organization (ILO) is undertaking this study, specific to the

green building sector to facilitate knowledge sharing in the early identification of skill needs.

Further, this case study seeks to identify jobs required and trainings to be developed to support

and sustain the current shift to green building.

2 Green Building in the PhilippinesSeveral sectoral organizations are now addressing the need to respond to the negative

impacts of climate change by developing advocacy and education efforts specifically designed to

increase awareness in the property sector. The government regularly consults with these sectors

to identify priority needs. Partnerships are created to facilitate the development of policy that

supports industry based climate solutions. Joint programs are developed by environmental

organizations to ensure coordinated efforts in solving the climate crisis. High energy cost,

climate change and global warming are seen as the primary drivers that will increase the uptake

of green building in the Philippines.

According to the Smart Market Report by the World Green Building Council (n.d.) The

fastest growing regional green building market is Asia, where the population of firms largely

dedicated to green building is expected to jump from 36% today to 73% in 2013. In the

Philippines, there is strong indication that green building will be the standard way of doing

business in the property sector. There will be continuous demand for more green buildingproducts and services and skills to support positive growth.

In the Philippines, building owners gets to improve their bottom-line by looking at green

buildings as part of their core strategy. Green buildings may have higher initial costs; however,

building owners recoup their investments due to efficient operations. According to Rigoberto


5/38

5

Santos (2011), Vice President of Megaworld Corporation, "The green initiative, in whatever

form or fashion it takes does have a direct impact in the operations."

With the positive growth in green building present in the country, there will be increased

need for training in the following areas: (1) utilization of green building technologies for

building professionals; (2) effective environmental communication for marketing professionals;

(3) crafting of effective green building policy for legislators; (4) skills upgrade for construction

workers; (5) green building certification (particularly BERDE).

Lack of appropriate training response may however, lead to displacement of workers due

to lack of skills for green building. This scenario has the potential to hinder economic

development.

2.1 Professional Organizations

The Guidelines on Energy Conserving Design on Buildings (2007) and the Manual of

Practice on Efficient Lighting (2007) was developed by the Department of Energy (DOE) with

major contributions from the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers (IIEE), the government-

accredited professional organization of electrical practitioners. The aforementioned publications

seek to facilitate the dissemination of information on proper design that promotes energyconservation on buildings.

The Philippine Constructors Association of the Philippines Metropolitan Chapter

(PCA-Metro) is now pushing forward with their advocacy campaign on contractor licensing.

There is a high percentage of unlicensed contractors in the market, according to Atty. Bertie

Squire (2011), board adviser of PCA-Metro. Recent events (Aning 2011) have highlighted the

need to ensure that contractors are licensed. Atty. Squire personally believes that occupational

health and safety is ensured if contractors are licensed.


6/38

6

The Philippine Green Building Initiative (PGBI)3 was formed in the first quarter of 2010

as a professional group that promotes sustainability in the built environment. It is composed of

professional associations accredited by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). Among

its member organizations are the United Architects of the Philippines, Philippine Society of

Ventilating, Air-Conditioning and Refrigerating Engineers (PSVARE), Philippine Chapter of the

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE),

Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines (IIEE), Geological Society of the Philippines,

Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), Heritage Conservation Society (HCS), and the

International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). The PGBI aims to (1) To provide an

objective non-partisan approach to the study and assessment of buildings and communities

incorporating internationally recognized best practices in building design, construction,

performance and energy efficiency; (2) To promote environmental responsibility and cultural

responsiveness in order to be locally responsible and globally relevant; (3) To write and adopt

design and construction standards to guide the built environment in its efforts to promote

sustainability.

There are presently two organizations focusing on the promotion of green architecture in

the Philippines. The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) initiated the Green Architecture

Committee under the term of UAP National President Prosperidad Luis, FUAP in 2000.

Presently called the Green Architecture Movement (UAP-GAM), it continues to be one of the

major committees of the UAP whose mission is to educate architects in the Philippines on

facilitating the application of green design principles in the practice of architecture. Similarly,

and expanding on the call to green the built environment through various education and

advocacy efforts, the Green Architecture Advocacy Philippines (GreenAP) was incorporated in

August 2009 and is presently led by its co-founder and chairman Arch. Ega Reformado.

GreenAP represents various building professionals advocating green architecture and presently

3 The PGBI is in the initial stages of organization. Literature regarding this organization is lacking. For more information pleaserefer to International Institute for Energy Conservation - Asia, 2010. Comparison Among Two Green Building Movements in thePhilippines, A Report on Side-by-Side Developments of Green Building Rating Systems by the Philippine Green BuildingInitiative (PGBCI) and the Philippine Green Council (PHILGBC).


7/38

7

has about 80 members (Reformado, E. 2011, pers. comm. January). GreenAP is a self-governing

organization, independent of the UAP.

The Solid Waste Management Association of the Philippines (SWAPP) is a non-profit

membership organization composed of solid waste practitioners from local government units,

national government agencies, non-government organizations, and the academe. Recognizing

the role of proper solid waste management in the promotion of greener buildings, SWAPP was

very instrumental in convening the Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC).

2.2 Industry-based Organizations

The PHILGBC is an industry-led coalition of more than 250 leading companies in theproperty sector and 11 alliance partnerships with government, trade associations, academe and

government (Tungol, M.A. 2010, pers. comm. December). The PHILGBC seeks to transform

the way the property sector design, builds and operates buildings in the Philippines. The

organization is under the auspices of the WGBC, an international organization of more than 80

green building councils.

The Philippine Business for the Environment (2008) has, as part of its Corporate Training

Series, a training/seminar on Environment Leadership and Workforce Motivation. Its topicsinclude sustainable development, environmental leadership and stewardship, mainstreaming of

sustainable development in enterprises and linking corporate environmental strategies with

business functions. Highlighting managements role in communicating environmental issues

within the organization, this training has the potential to facilitate the transition of white-collar

jobs to green-collar jobs.

2.3 Current Green Building Activities in Industry

Current green building activities are focused on existing commercial and office

buildings. Most of the technologies are being implemented on a pilot basis to experience

firsthand the efficiency and performance of various green building strategies. Energy

consumption associated with building cooling is considered a priority that needs to be addressed


8/38

8

in most building retrofits. According to Calupe (2011), the Ayala Corporation is presently

utilizing in Serendra, Glorietta, and Greenbelt Ayala Malls ice thermal airconditioning systems.

Santos (2011) shared that the Megaworld Corporation has now in place solar collection facilities

on some of their buildings, allowing them to benchmark their data and/or gather empirical data

that will allow them to have more informed decision in succeeding projects. Megaworld is now

developing a green building program for McKinley Hill to take advantage of the benefits of

green. Arabejo (2011), expressed that A green building, if properly designed, will not cost

more. Believing that going for passive strategies is key in new buildings he added that

designing with the elements maximizes the potential of passive green strategies that will not

add cost to a project yet save more money in operation cost." Ecotektonika, Inc. at present is

designing the Nuvali Eco Center. It will incorporate passive design strategies that include: (1)

proper building orientation, (2) study of solar orientation, and (3) analysis of rainfall and wind

data, to maximize its potential to be harnessed for use in building design, to increase human

comfort and maximize economic returns.

Water efficiency strategies are starting to become popular in buildings. There projects

that are starting to utilize rainwater collection, and double/triple piping systems are also

becoming popular. Better effluent management is also currently undertaken with reed bed

systems.

Net Lima, a green building project by the NET Group is scheduled to be finished by the

end of 2011. It features double glazed curtain walls, utilizing low-e glass (Rufino 2011, pers.

comm. January). Sun shielding systems are also being employed to reduce glare and to further

manage solar gain. Net Lima shall be utilizing the BERDE Green Building Rating System for

New Construction.


9/38

9

Green Building Feature Description

Cooling Replacement of CFC based refrigerants; Use of several compressors to reduce peak demand charges and lower energy

consumption associated with cooling; Variable speed drives; Variable refrigerant flow system; Ice thermal airconditioning systems; Shadow effect orienting buildings to take advantage of shadows to reduce

heat gain in buildings.Elevators Optimized operation by zoningPumps Better regulation of speedLighting Motion detection,

LED Lighting, Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL), Soft starters.

Building Envelope Sun Shields; Low-e glazing.

Renewable energy Solar collectionPassive strategies used indesign

Study of solar path; Study of wind and rainfall data; Proper building orientation; Natural lighting; Natural ventilation.

Water Double/triple Piping; Reed bed systems.

Table 2-1 Common green building features in commercial buildings. (Calupe 2011, pers. comm. March) (Santos 2011)

(Arabejo 2011, pers. comm. March)(Rufino 2011, pers. comm. January).

2.4 Green Building Related Programs

The BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence) Program was

established by the PHILGBC to develop market-based tools that will facilitate green building in

the property sector. The first green building rating system in the Philippines, BERDE for New

Construction (BERDE-NC) was released last November 17, 2010 to support local projects

seeking green building certification. Currently, the council is developing a program for the

certification of BERDE consultants and assessors to ensure that the certification process will be

delivered with the highest standards of quality. Further, to strengthen this program the council is

establishing the BERDE National Research Agenda on Green Building (BERDE-NRA), aprogram that will provide the property industry insight and informed choices on green building

services, technology, knowledge and tools. Furthermore, specific research will be conducted

under this program to support the development of BERDE. These programs were undertaken to

allow industry to move forward with the Philippines growing interest in the green agenda.


10/38

10

In the past five (5) years, the absence of a green building certification system in the

Philippines has led industry players to utilize LEED, a green building rating system developed

by the US Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED is a third-party verification and

measurement system that certifies a projects green credentials (GBCI 2011). At present, the

Philippines have 20 projects registered and 4 certified under the LEED rating system.

Project Location Type Rating

Nuvali One Evotech Sta. Rosa City, Laguna LEED CS 2.0 SilverShell Shared Services Centre Manila Manila LEED CI 2.0 SilverTexas Instruments Philippines Baguio Baguio City LEED NC 2.2 SilverTexas Instruments Philippines Clark Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga LEED NC 2.2 Gold

Table 2-2 List of LEED Certified Projects in the Philippines. (USGBC 2011)

LEED has been used for the past five years in the Philippines. Its adaption in the

Philippines has been remarkably slow moving compared to other countries. According to

BERDE Technical Editor, Pablo Suarez, LEED AP (2011), there are several issues and

challenges faced by project owners regarding LEED Certification. He took special note of the

following: (1)Most laws referred to in LEED refer to US laws and regulations. (2)Product

certification recognized by LEED refers to US Standards. For example paints, cleaning

products, and equipment. (3)Alternative products which are possibly compliant need proof,

which local manufacturers have difficulty providing. (4)Technical support for LEED is costly

and due to time zone differences, is a challenge. (5) No on-site assessment conducted and

depends largely on project documentation submitted. (6) For international projects

(Philippines), documents submitted have to undergo more stringent scrutiny.


11/38

11

Project Location Type

ADGT Building 3 Cavite LEED-NC v2009Aegis People Support CenterCebu Cebu City LEED NC 2.2Alphaland Makati Place Makati City LEED-NC v2009Alphaland Makati Tower Makati City LEED-CS v2009Arya Residences Taguig LEED NC 2.2Asian Development Bank Headquarters Mandaluyong LEED-EB:OM v2009Centennial Hotel Baguio Baguio City LEED-NC v2009Emerson Manila Taguig City LEED-NC v2009Green Power Nueva Ecija Philippines Inc. Nueva Ecija LEED CI 2.0Green Power Panay Philippines Inc Iloilo LEED NC 2.2MCC Office Building Quezon City LEED-CS v2009MPOC Expansion Project Gen Trias, Cavite LEED-NC v2009NUVALI Visitors Center Sta. Rosa City LEED NC 2.2One Campus Place Fort Bonifacio Taguig City LEED NC 2.2Shangri-La at the Fort, Manila Mandaluyong LEED NC 2.2

Sun Life Financial Philippine HQ Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City LEED CS 2.0Sun Life Philippines Interiors Taguig City LEED-CI v2009The Mind Museum Taguig City LEED NC 2.2The Office Pasay City LEED-CS v2009United Doctors of St Camillus Hospital Batangas City LEED-HC v2009

Table 2-3 List of LEED Registered Projects in the Philippines. (USGBC 2011)

The absence of credible third party green building certification programs in the past has

led to confusion in the marketplace. Recognizing that the Philippines is steadily maturing into a

greener market, technology and service providers and building projects are beginning to claim

green credentials. The public is challenged in identifying projects that are accurately green and

its level of environmental performance. The development of a specific metric that allow industry

to measure environmental performance that is harmonized with local practices and addresses

local environmental priorities also is lacking.

The BERDE Program of the PHILGBC was developed to specifically address this. The

PHILGBC, as an industry-led organization, considers market development for green buildings a

major priority. The council believes that a locally developed green building rating system will

facilitate market development.

To support this undertaking, BERDE was developed as the Philippines green building

rating system, to address environmental issues and challenges in the property sector, in line with

national priorities and context. This program was developed as part of the outcomes of a


12/38

12

roundtable discussion conducted last November 28, 2007. A multi-stakeholder base was

assembled representing the academe, professional associations, government, civil society groups

and trade groups. They were consulted by the council to find ways on how to collaborate and

facilitate green building in industry via BERDE. The initial uptake of BERDE will be driven by

large developers. It is expected that small and medium sized industry players will soon follow.

Government will soon pursue green building by developing more stringent standards, policy and

hopefully provide tax breaks according to Michael Reyes (2011), former President of

CECOPHIL and Chairman of the BERDE Management Committee.

In a local government effort, it must be noted that Item B.2.3, Annex B of the

Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Quezon City Green Building Rating System,building projects procuring the services of BERDE Professionals are entitled to receive

additional points that will help the project owner get green building tax credits.

TUV Rheinland Philippines has been appointed by the PHILGBC to be the certification

body that will facilitate the BERDE Certification Process. TUV Rheinland is an organization

accredited by the Philippine Accreditation Office (PAO) operating under the Department of

Trade and Industry (DTI-PAO). The BERDE Certification Process is delivered in line with

ISO/IEC 17021. The challenge in the near term is to ensure the viability of the BERDECertification Process is the assurance that there will be enough qualified and competent BERDE

Professionals and Assessors in the market, according to Mr. Tristan Loveres (2011), COO of

TUV Rheinland Philippines. The development of BERDE requires a new breed of building

professionals trained in the areas of energy management, water management, pollution control,

quality assurance, and certification. There is a positive outlook in terms of increased public

awareness for the need to build responsibly. Filling the skill gap to deliver the needed services is

critical to ensure delivery of BERDE in the property sector.4

4 According to Luna (2011), "In terms of opportunities, what's good about it is there is an increasing public awareness about thenecessity to build responsibly and to develop with a sustainable mindset. So there is that public push. You see that global ly andin many facets of our Philippine society now."


13/38

13

The Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development,

Inc. (PCEPSDI) is an affiliate organization of the Development Academy of the Philippines

(DAP) and operates under the auspices of the Department of Trade and Industry and the

Department of Environment and Natural Resources. PCEPSDI, is the official administrator of the

National Ecolabelling Programme Green Choice Philippines (NELP-GCP). GCP is based on

ISO 14024 and is voluntary, multiple criteria-based third party program. The program promotes

clean manufacturing and sustainable consumption, and designed to be harmonized with

applicable Philippine laws and standards. Construction materials are a priority in the

development of standards. Primarily, the program (Green Choice) believes that there is a huge

gain in the industry the moment it aligns with sustainable development, according to June

Alvarez (2011), executive director, PCEPSDI. Recognizing the potential synergies that may be

created between PHILGBC-BERDE and Green Choice, the two organizations signed a

Memorandum of Mutual Cooperation that signifies its commitment to work together to promote

sustainability in the property sector.

The PHILGBC and PBE - two of the largest corporate environmental organizations - are

engaged in a partnership under the Climate Initiative to promote urban greening. The strategy

undertaken in this collaboration was to provide a platform for dialogue for industry and

consumers to facilitate the uptake of cool roofs. A cool roof reflects the suns heat and emits

absorbed radiation back into the atmosphere. This allows the roof to stay cooler and this

significantly reduces the amount of heat transferred/radiated into the adjacent space below.

These results to a lesser cooling load, thereby allowing the building owner save on energy

(CRRC 2011). The core idea of this project is to enable the consumers understand the benefits of

installing cool roofs. Engaged in this program are technology providers, real estate developers,

homeowner associations, and building professionals. In a tropical country like the Philippines,

increased consumer education on the benefits of cool roofs will increase demand for thistechnology. This program ensures that buyers are informed on the availability of cool roof

technologies in the market. (Antonio, L. 2010, pers. comm. December)


14/38

14

2.5 Policy Development

2.5.1 National Building Code

According to Hong and Chiang (n.d.) 20-30 percent of Asias energy consumption is

attributed to the building sector. Flourishing economic and social activity coupled with increased

population and urbanization drives Asias vibrant construction market. The demand for more

energy for cooling, heating, lighting and energizing appliances continues to climb. To abate this

demand, more rigid building codes are deemed essential.

Chart 2-1 Energy use in the ASEAN (kg of oil equivalent per capita) 5 (World Bank 2011)

The Philippines has enacted the National Building Code in 1972 and amended it via

Presidential Decree in 1977 in recognition to the need to safeguard life, health, property, and

public welfare, consistent with the principles of sound environmental management and control .6 Presently, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is responsible in

formulating policies, plans, standards and guidelines on building design, construction, use

occupancy and maintenance in accordance with the code. Several government agencies and

departments7 are contributing to the upgrade of the building codes by regularly issuing

5 Energy figures for LAO PDR not available.6 As stipulated in Presidential Decree 1096 Adopting a National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP) thereby revisingRepublic Act 6541, An Act to Ordain and Institute a National Building Code of the Philippines.7 The offices regularly contributing to the development of regulations for building are (1) Department of Public Works andHighways, (2) Department of Energy, (3) Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

9000

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Brunei Darussalam

Cambodia

Indonesia

Malaysia

Myanmar

Philippines

Singapore

Thailand

Vietnam


15/38

15

administrative orders, based on need and demand. Professional codes as approved by the DPWH

Secretary serves as referral codes.

In 2004, the DPWH has upgraded the building code, via the issuance of the 2004 Revised

Implementing Rules and Regulations of the National Building Code of the Philippines (P.D.

1096). The revision focuses largely on the regulation and control of (1) location; (2) site; (3)

design; (4) quality of materials; (5) construction; (6) use; (7) occupancy; and (8) maintenance.

However, the government is yet to enact a national green building code that will holistically

regulate by specifying environmental performance.

Currently, to promote and support environmental and energy efficiency best practices in

the property sector, the government has published, through the Department of Energy, the

Guidelines on Energy Conserving Design on Buildings and the Manual of Practice on Efficient

Lighting. Further, the Philippines having one of the most favorable regulatory environments

(ReEx Capital Asia Pte Ltd 2010) for Energy Service Companies (ESCOs), the government is

establishing the Super ESCO, to overcome barriers to the implementation of energy efficiency

projects in the private and public sectors(DOE 2010). ESCOs facilitates energy efficiency by

providing services that ensures energy savings through: (1) technical design assistance; (2)

technology verification, supply and monitoring; (3) financial and risk management.

The government has taken a mandatory-voluntary policy mix approach in promoting

energy efficiency and green building. This policy approach allows government to manage

energy consumption and at the same time allowing industry to grow. Compared with the rest of

the ASEAN region, the Philippines energy use per capita has been consistently declining from

2000-2008 (International Energy Agency cited in World Bank 2011).


16/38

16

Chart 2-2 Philippines - Energy use (kg of oil equivalent per capita) (World Bank 2011)

However, the presence of both mandatory and voluntary environmental measures and

programs for buildings, poses an implementation challenge. The presence of a robust national

green building code will accelerate the push for greener buildings. It establishes clear mandatory

minimums for green that help in enforcement, allowing the property industry grow in a level

playing field.

2.5.2 Environment Laws and Regulations

The Philippine Government has enacted environmental laws in the past decade that has

indirectly affected the building industry, but none of these laws were crafted to specifically

address the need for environmental standards for the building industry.

Title Year

Republic Act 8749 Clean Air Act 1999Republic Act 9003 Ecological Solid Waste Management Act 2000Republic Act 9275 Clean Water Act 2004

Republic Act 9367 Biofuels Act 2006

Republic Act 9512 Environmental Awareness and Education Act 2008

Republic Act 9513 Renewable Energy Act 2008Republic Act 9729 Climate Change Act 2009

Table 2-4 Laws related to green building and climate change enacted in the past decade.8

8 Source: Authors compilation from various sources,http://senate.gov.ph and http://congress.gov.ph.

400

420

440460

480

500

520

540

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
http://senate.gov.ph/http://senate.gov.ph/http://congress.gov.ph/http://congress.gov.ph/http://senate.gov.ph/


17/38

17

In response, Senator Miriam Defensor -Santiago during the 14 th and 15th Congress to

author three (3) green building related bills to address the lack of policy support in the areas of

standards, energy efficiency and education.

In the House of Representatives, the need to develop environmental standards for

government buildings has led Representative Anna YorkBondoc to author House Bill 6397, an

act to establish a green building standard for planning, design, construction, operation or

maintenance practices, renovation, expansion and retrofitting of government building projects in

the Philippines. Further, House Resolution 704 was authored by Rep. Bondoc to urge the House

of Representatives to have its building retrofitted to be the first government building in the

Philippines. This is to signify governments intention to take the lead in developing greenbuildings in the Philippines.

Recognizing green jobs satisfy the demand for green development, Senator Manny Villar

has authored Senate Bill 3144 Promoting Green Collar Jobs in the Philippines Act of 2009.

The proposed bill identified the following areas as priorities in green job development: (1)

Coastal clean-up and bay watch projects; (2) Reforestation efforts and tree planting; (3)

Construction and designation of bike lanes and installation of solar powered street lights and

other clean energy initiatives; (4) Planting and replanting of coconut trees to ensure bio-fuelfeed stock; (5) Opportunities in refitting public utility vehicles with liquefied petroleum gas and;

(6) Re-electrification of barangays using solar panels and hydro-electric grids.

Title Year

Senate Bill 3377 - An Act Authorizing Higher Education Curriculum Development andGraduate Training in Advanced Energy and Green Building Technologies

2009

Senate Bill 1799 - An Act Establishing a Green Energy for Homes and Buildings Program inthe Department of Energy to Provide Financial Assistance to Promote Residential,Commercial, and Industrial Scale Energy Efficiency and On-Site Renewable Technologies.

2010

Senate Bill 2574 - An Act to Create the Green Building Code Commission to Draft theNational Green Building Code

2010

Table 2-5 Green Building related bills filed by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago. (Authors compilation)

Most of these priorities are part of the green building agenda. This bill, if passed, is seen

as a way to stimulate job creation in key areas of concern for green building.


18/38

18

Local governments are beginning to make green building a part of their key strategy for

the environment. Under the leadership of former mayor, Hon. Feliciano Belmonte, Quezon City

(QC) was able to pass the first local government ordinance focused on the promotion of greener

buildings. The Green Building Ordinance (Herrera-Dy et.al. 2009) was authored by Councilor

Bernadette Herrera - Dy to enable the city to efficiently promote a green building incentives

program for the property sector. The Green Building Ordinance also requires that malls,

hospitals, subdivisions and government buildings to install sewage facilities to ensure cleaner

effluent before it is released back to the environment (Philippine Star 2009).

Further, to reduce the heat island effect9, currently experienced in QC, Councilor

Franz Pumaren authored the Green Rooftops Ordinance. The ordinance aims to reinvitebiodiversity in the city, improve the citys aesthetics and improve overall quality of life.

The City of Makati, the Philippines business capital, has been a recognized leader in

delivering environmental programs. Under the leadership of former mayor Hon. Jejomar Binay,

the city has been receiving awards in environmental governance. In 2009, the citys solid waste

diversion and reduction program was named one of the Outstanding Local Governance Programs

in the 2009 Galing Pook Awards (Balita 2009). With strong linkages with the civic

organizations and the private sector, the city has been active in developing education andawareness programs that promote the reduction of green house gas emissions, development

urban greening strategies and establishment of disaster management strategies (World Bank

2009).

The Development Bank of the Philippines is set to build a green building at the Bonifacio

Global City in Taguig City. The project unveiling rites were led by former President Gloria

Macapagal Arroyo last January 2010. The project will highlight several green building features

including solar power harvesting, modern roof for reduced heat gain, a storm drainage system for

9 Heat island effect refers to heat generated in heavily built up areas. It increases the cooling load for buildings, therebyincreasing the amount of energy utilized. For more information please see USEPA, n.d. Heat Island Effect | U.S. EPA. USEPAwebsite. Available at: http://www.epa.gov/heatisld/ [Accessed March 7, 2011].


19/38

19

additional water supply, natural light, insulated walls for heat buffers, and water conservation

features (Development Bank of the Philippines 2010).

The increasing number of bills filed in congress, and programs and policies developed by

local government units indicates public sectors recognition that green building is a viable

solution to address the negative impacts of climate change and other environmental issues.

Further, it must be acknowledged that government legislation has the potential to stimulate the

market. Tax incentives, may increase market demand, hasten industry to respond, resulting to

lower prices of green building goods and services. Furthermore, it may bring about a

competitive environment that may result to better access to sustainable products and innovation

paving the way for green jobs.

2.5.3 Other Government Programs

The Philippine Efficient Lighting Market Transformation Project (PELMATP) is a five-

year project led by the Department of Energy (DOE) with support from the Global Environment

Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It aims to reduce

green house gas emissions associated with the use of inefficient lighting. The project highlights

the utilization of energy efficient lighting systems through the development of standards,

policies, guidelines and programs on energy efficient lighting.

In 2008, the Philippine Energy Summit was held to serve as a venue for the private and

public sector to exchange opinions regarding issues and concerns with respect to the oil price

spike, its negative impacts on the economy and its effects on vulnerable sectors. The summit

seeks to build consensus on pathways to addressing this problem. This was the one of the first

engagements between government and the private sector were green building was promoted to

the public to promote energy efficiency.10

10The authors presentation during the Philippine Energy Summit may be downloaded athttp://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdf .
http://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdfhttp://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdfhttp://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdf


20/38

20

In May 2009, the Department of Energy (DOE) implemented the Philippines Energy

Efficiency Project (PEEP), supported by a loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The

program endeavors to highlight the societal benefits of energy efficiency in the commercial,

residential and public sectors. One of the key initiatives of the project involves the establishment

of an efficient building rating system for new and existing building. There is an ongoing

discussion between the PHILGBC and the DOE to work together on the Efficient Building

Initiative component of PEEP. This component will develop a green building rating system, and

will be utilizing BERDE as the basis for the development of the government-led green building

rating system (DOE 2010).

To signify governments support to promote green trade The Center for InternationalTrade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) an attached agency of the Department of Trade and

Industry (DTI) invited the PHILGBC to be a partner in the 1 st Philippine International Eco-Show

(PINES) to promote eco-products and services. Green building was also highlighted in the

exposition through a seminar conducted by the PHILGBC. The successful delivery of the

exposition in 2010 led to a renewed partnership between the PHILGBC and CITEM to deliver

again the said exposition in 2011.

2.6 Challenges Faced by Green Building Programs

Despite the presence of multi-sectoral green building programs, the adaption of green

building has been lagging due to lack of awareness on the benefits of green building. More

information, education and communication (IEC) programs for the public has to be developed to

enable the public internalize the societal benefits of green building, thus building demand.

The national government and several key cities are already moving forward with the

passing of additional regulations to support green building. However, there is a need for further

understanding of the benefits of green building on a governance standpoint. Further, despite the

passage of several environmental regulations, there is a need to develop a green building

regulation that holistically covers the various aspects of green building (e.g. water, energy, land

use, indoor environment quality, emissions, heritage conservation, etc.). Furthermore, the


21/38

21

Bureau of Product Standards of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-BPS), the national

governments standards body has not developed nor adapted yet any green building standard.

Studies related to the benefits, market demand, and technologies of green building that may

support legislative action are also lacking, especially studies done in the local context. In the

absence of locally developed studies, legislators are referring to foreign standards, which has the

potential of actually doing more harm than good to the building industry. In green building,

local issues, including, but not limited to, climate, culture, and business practice has to be made

part of regulations, rating schemes, and standards.

In 2008, the PHILGBC, in partnership with the Professional Development Center of the

United Architects of the Philippines (UAP-PDC) has delivered a green building seminar forarchitects as a capability enhancement program. With the foreseen increased demand for green

architects, and the dynamic developments in the area of green architecture, new training modules

has to be designed and delivered to fill knowledge gaps in this area. It is recognized, that the

potential to harness the development of technologies, materials, and services for green buildings

is challenged, due to the lack of understanding and absence of cooperation among building

professionals. Currently, the PHILGBC has been delivering presentations to various building

professional organizations help in the capability enhancement efforts of its partners, especially in

the areas of water conservation and efficiency, solid waste management and energy efficiency11.

A large part of the costs associated to developing a green building is associated to energy

technologies. Lack of financing for green projects has led the International Finance Corporation

(IFC), the financing arm of the World Bank Group to establish the Sustainable Energy Finance

Program (SEFP). The project supports the creation of a commercial financing market for

sustainable energy (SE) projects in the Philippines (World Bank 2009). IFC has partnered with

the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) (Remo 2009) and Banco de Oro (BDO) (GMA News

2010) in developing a Sustainable Energy Finance Program (SEFP). The SEFP intends to

facilitate the shift from the use of energy from conventional sources to renewable sources,

11 Over 200 presentations have been delivered by the PHILGBC in the past four years to various professional organizations,universities, companies, and government offices and attached agencies.


22/38

22

promote energy efficiency and carbon emission reduction. This mechanism also intends to

provide support to small and medium sized enterprises the needed financing to enable them to be

competitive and allow them to go gradually green. The BPI is looking at funding at least 20

additional renewable energy projects worth at least Php 100 million each. IFC has forged

partnerships with the BDO since 2002 through the IFCs Sustainable Energy Finance Program

designed to guarantee up to 50% of the risk of loans taken by investors from BDO.

Majority of the employer-respondents are commenting that there are a growing number

of buyers of green building products and services. However, majority of the respondents

commented that lack of awareness in the benefits of green building is hindering its growth in the

country. It is also recognized that campaigns that will help identify green experts, materials, andtechnology is also lacking. There is a strong perception that green building is expensive due to

the high upfront costs. Further understanding of the lifecycle cost may help in promoting green

building uptake. Further, it is recognized that the larger issue is the lack of relevant laws that

support an investment climate required for green building.

2.7 Occupation and Skills for Green Building

2.7.1 Architecture and Engineering

There will be increased demand for architects and engineers with green building

knowledge. The property market is slowly transforming into a sophisticated market demanding

projects with green credentials. The public is gradually understanding the benefits of buying

green is now looking for it when deciding on where to live, work, play, and learn. Architects and

engineers are enablers in this space by developing solutions, particularly, designs and

technologies that are resource efficient.

2.7.2 Energy Managers

In looking for ways to address the need to move forward sustainably in the building

sector, a closer look at existing buildings has to be taken into consideration. There is larger

number of existing building stock, than new building projects on the drawing board, and most of


23/38

23

the existing buildings present still utilize old technology that is inefficient in terms of energy.

Energy managers are seen as a group of professionals that may help in facilitating the shift of

these buildings in to greener buildings. Commenting on the importance of energy conservation

and efficiency, Pacia (2011) remarked that, "the world has seen a number of energy crisis and

people are now aware how much this is going to affect the world economy in the future if we do

not do something about it." However, there is only a handful certified energy managers in the

country. ENPAP is developing a program that will facilitate the creation of a national roster of

certified energy managers in the country.

2.7.3 Marketing Professionals

Marketing professionals with knowledge on sustainability are seen as key in the

promotion of greener buildings. There is the challenge of hiring professionals who are able to

articulate the benefits of green building and increase awareness. "In terms of opportunities,

what's good about it is there is an increasing public awareness about the necessity to build

responsibly and to develop with a sustainable mindset. So there is that public push. You see that

globally and in many facets of our Philippine society now, according to Joel Luna (2011), of

Ayala Land, Inc.

For green building as an environmental solution to work, there should be enough

marketing professionals who are able to help in creating market demand that will push building

developers to sell more of this building type.

2.7.4 Green Building Trainors

The industry now slowly accepting green building as part of their corporate mandates,

there is a remarkable demand for green building trainers, speakers, and facilitators. Building

technologies, being very dynamic, a roster of professionals abreast with the latest in building

trends are very much in needed in industry. These professionals have to exhibit a high-level of

communication skills.


24/38

24

2.7.5 Certification Professionals

Third party certification and verification systems and standards are essential in

identifying green buildings. Green building rating schemes are also becoming popular to

building professionals in measuring environmental performance of building. These increase the

credibility for projects claiming green credentials. Building a national roster of green building

professionals and assessors with auditing skills is vital. Also crucial is the development of green

material specialists who has a very high understanding of standards and other specific skills and

knowledge that may be required include life cycle assessments, material science, and

construction workflow.

2.8 The Skills Response

As the building and construction sector is slowly transforming to green, industry is

starting to experience difficulty in filling positions due to skills mismatch. Training of existing

workers to upgrade skills is also urgently needed. Upgrading and realignment of existing

training systems is a priority for proper delivery of green building services.

Among occupations that are currently affected are workers with green building expertise,

professionals handling engineering works with green building expertise, quantity surveyors,safety engineers, energy designers and managers, sustainability officers, waste management

officers, and marketing personnel with significant knowledge in green building.

Though several of the organizations interviewed have in place trainings and seminars that

support green building, all of the respondents agree that present trainings are not sufficient due to

the following: (1) Most of the trainings are only available in Metro-Manila and not available in

other regions of the country, (2) Skilled and semi-skilled workers still lack technical know-how

on more complex green building related work (e.g. solar technology, HVAC, energy

management etc.), (3) lack of access to trainings due to costs associated with high quality

trainings, (4) lack of government support.


25/38

25

Further on the need to provide for appropriate skills trainings and development programs

are the occupations deemed to be most in demand in the next five years. These occupations as

identified by employers and associations interviewed are Architects, Engineers, BERDE

Assessors, Green Building Certifiers, Green Material, Supplier, Maintenance/Project Managers,

Electrical/Energy Managers, Sanitary Personnel, and Mechanical/Laborer with Green Building

Know-how.

The BERDE Program of the PHILGBC is currently undergoing the pilot stage. There are

several building projects nominated by several organizations to help out in the research and

development of BERDE. During discussions with stakeholders regarding the delivery of

BERDE buildings, it was noted that building owners are challenged in identifying and hiringnew employees for their green building projects. The lack of know-how on the specific skill-sets

required, particularly on green certification sometimes compel companies to hire foreign

consultants. This solves the problem in the short term, but the costs associated with hiring of

foreign consultants are seen to increase product costs and are perceived to be a significant barrier

to greening a building.

In February 2011, the PHILGBC trained the first set of BERDE Professionals and

Assessors to address this gap. There are thirty (30) new professionals now already fielded toassist in building projects. However, this is not enough to address the growing need for trained

green building professionals. The challenge is to match the growing demand with the expansion

of the BERDE Certification Program. The PHILGBC is now discussing with potential partners

who are interested to become BERDE-accredited training institutions. Training modules and

programs are now being designed to standardize the green building education materials. The

following courses are being developed: (1) Certified BERDE Professional Course; (2) Certified

BERDE Assessors Course; (3) Green Building Expert Training Course.12 This strategy is put in

place to rapidly expand the program across the country.

12 Various specific expert trainings (e.g. energy, water, solid waste management etc.) are currently developed by the PHILGBC.


26/38

26

Company/Organization Project BERDE Scheme Used

The Net Group Net Lima Project BERDE NC V1.0 (Pilot Project)Ayala Land, Inc. One Evotech Building BERDE EC V1.0 (Pilot Project)

Nuvali Evoliving Center BERDE EC V1.0 (Pilot Project)Tower One and Exchange Plaza BERDE EC V1.0 (Pilot Project)Solaris One Building BERDE EC V1.0 (Pilot Project)UP Ayala Land Techno Hub BERDE EC V1.0 (Pilot Project)Greenbelt Mall BERDE EC V1.0 (Pilot Project)BGC BPO Building BERDE EC V1.0 (Pilot Project)Marquee Mall BERDE EC V1.0 (Pilot Project)

De la Salle University Henry Sy Hall BERDE NC V1.0 (Pilot Project)BERDE for Education (underdevelopment)

Megaworld Corporation Developments in Global City BERDE CT (under development)

Table 2-6 Projects engaged in the Pilot Program of the BERDE Green Building Rating System. (PHILGBC 2011)

A complementing effort is being developed by the Energy Efficiency Practitioners

Association of the Philippines (ENPAP), a pioneering organization focusing on the promotion of

the highest standards in energy management. ENPAP (2011) provides technical consulting,

trainings and seminars that are designed to enhance the capability and competence of energy

managers in the Philippines. According to Bernard Pacia (2011), President of ENPAP, the

organization (ENPAP) is currently studying the proposal to make ENPAPs energy efficiency

programs and trainings a part of the BERDE Certification Process. ENPAPs trained energy

experts may be tapped to serve in the BERDE certification process as BERDE Professionals

(CBP) who may ably assist companies in getting certified or as BERDE Assessors (CBA) to helpensure that project proponents claims are assessed accurately13.

Environmental trainings, specifically for unskilled labor and skilled labor (tradesmen) is

almost not present. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) the

government institution that was formed to develop technical and vocational skills in the

Philippines, does not have a program specific to greening of skills.

13 "There are only a handful of Certified Energy Managers in the country, and all of them have been certified abroad. The field ofenergy is also not popular here. If the pending bill on Energy is passed into law, this should complement the BERDE project andI see big opportunities for people to go into the field of energy management.", According to Bernard Pacia, as he identifies futureemployment demand in the Green Building Sector. See: Pacia, B., 2011. Case Study on Occupational and Skills Needs in theGreen Building Sector: Philippines (Interview).


27/38

27

An appropriate soft skills training response for tradesmen are urgently needed,

particularly in the following areas: (1) development of strategic skills, (2) increase environmental

awareness and sustainable development, (3) coordination, management and business skills, and

(4) innovation. A significant number of skilled and semi-skilled workers are self-trained, with

knowledge on tasks learned largely from experience. Expanding the trained pool of skilled and

semi-skilled workers is needed. An increasing amount of the local workforce are now working

abroad and there is a need to continuously train new workers, especially with expertise in the

above mentioned soft/generic skills.

There is a need to train manufacturers in greener manufacturing practices and how to get

their companies get third party certification. BERDE for New Construction provides points forprojects that utilize materials that has a lesser carbon footprint, and has recycled content.

Developing the construction materials market is essential in expanding green building programs

in the country. Lack of understanding of material manufacturers on the need to engaged in

greener production will reduce competitiveness, and in the process making it more difficult for

building owners to specify greener materials.

In the past two (2) years, there have been constant inquiries and requests for internship

opportunities from universities to the PHILGBC, especially in the areas of research inarchitecture, engineering and environmental studies. The lack of focus for green building in the

present formal curriculum for architects and engineers has led to this demand. Lack of literature

on green building in the local setting has led university professors to inquire about hands-on

learning opportunities for the future architects and engineers. "There is still a need for

government to also look into incorporating the relevant science and engineering of green

building in the college curriculum," commented Mr. Bernard Pacia (2011), President of the

Energy Practitioners Association of the Philippines (ENPAP).

The PHILGBC will be welcoming interns through the BERDE-NRA. Interns will be

made to assist and contribute to the work of the BERDE Technical Working Group (BERDE-

TWG) on the following: (1) ongoing research activities; (2) facilitation of technical meetings; (3)

planning activities related to the development of BERDE; and (4) policy development work.


28/38

28

The PHILGBC will be coordinating with the countrys leading universities in pursuing this

endeavor.

Also included in this program are in-house trainings,14 and training from suppliers of

green building technologies.15 PHILGBC member companies and partners routinely share their

expertise to council members by providing trainings and seminars.

Organization Training

Autodesk Integrated Design DeliveryGreen Building DesignBuilding Information Modelling

Philips Lighting Dialux Lighting design softwareCECOPHIL Sustainable Project Management

Table 2-7 Partial list of trainings delivered with PHILGBC member companies and partners.

Lighting design is a rapidly growing field in the country. There is a need to equip new

lighting designers with the latest tools that will facilitate efficient lighting design. In the BERDE

rating system, Dialux, an open source tool, freely available from the web is one of the tools that

is suggested to be utilized by lighting designers, it must be noted however that, trainings for

lighting designers with regards to the use of the tool is still lacking.

Training modules in the area of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) is also needed. IPD isdefined by the AIA California Council (2007) as a project delivery approach that integrates

people, systems, business structures and practices into a process that collaboratively harnesses

the talents and insights of all participants to reduce waste and optimize efficiency through all

phases of design, fabrication and construction. To efficiently design and construct a green

building, it has been heavily promoted in recent years that IPD be the project delivery approach

to ensure that there is a tight collaboration between the owner and the various professionals

involved in the project. The Autodesk in partnership with the PHILGBC delivered in 2009 a

seminar dedicated to discussions on IPD.

14 In-house trainings are largely focused on green building certification.15 To be provided by PHILGBC-member companies.


29/38

29

While it is recognized that climate change and energy consciousness is a major driver for

green building, it is interesting to note that presently, skills available to respond appropriately to

green building is largely limited to architects and engineers. In the delivery of projects, a skilled

workforce with full understanding of green building will ensure smoother project delivery;

reduce wastage highlighting more efficient use of resources.Growing interest in the development of policy to support green building is already

present. There has been growing demand from local governments seeking assistance on how to

develop policy on green building. Training may be provided to local legislators highlighting the

need for government to be more resource efficient to lessen negative environmental impacts

associated with governance. Government is a creator of significant building stock, as theyprovide schools, medical facilities and other infrastructure to support the needs of their

constituents. Assisting government in the development of standards will be parallel action

between the private and public sector.

3 ConclusionAccording to the respondents, there is a remarkable indication that green jobs are beyond

the realm of industry decision makers. During the interview most respondents indicate that there

is a strong need to understand the role buildings play in the environment and the economy in

order to give significant attention to greening of new and existing buildings.

The BERDE Green Building Rating System as a tool to guide professionals in designing

buildings and as a key to measuring environmental performance will require significant skills

upgrade of professionals and of the skilled and semi-skilled workforce. Developing specialist

courses for both building professionals and the labor force will facilitate smoother transition to

green collar work. Another key strategy may be in the development of IT based solutions andthe creation of trainings for its competent and efficient use, to enable industry to rapidly learn

green building technology.

The rise of greener buildings would allow the country to grow economically and develop

sustainably as it creates new jobs that help solve the climate crisis. But it has to be recognized


30/38

30

that this will only work if greener buildings make business sense. Business professionals has to

learn how to factor in the environment as they develop new business models to respond to the

societal need for greener buildings. Current market conditions in an especially vulnerable

economy like the Philippines calls for creative solutions. Trainings for the business sector on the

development of new business models are key to solving this issue.

It is recommended that platforms for knowledge exchange exercises be established and

be conducted between foreign building professionals with experience in green building

certification and their local counterparts. This is deemed essential, especially in developing

countries like the Philippines. Through this benchmarking exercise, the level of knowledge on

green building in the Philippines will be raised, as it allows the local professionals learn from thegreen building experience of early takers from abroad and in the short term, facilitates trade, as it

opens to foreign consultants business opportunities in the Philippines.

Green buildings generate jobs not only in design, construction, retrofitting, and

operations, but also heavily on the supply side, particularly in manufacturing. The PHILGBC

and PBE partnership on urban greening has the potential to create jobs in the consulting,

manufacturing and labor contracting sectors. The project has huge potential and needs to be

expanded to reach a larger constituency-base.

Other countries have future proofed their infrastructure and buildings by going green.

Significantly increased competitiveness of industry allowed their governments free up funds for

other necessary governance priorities. Shifting to green jobs is largely a matter of upgrading

existing skillsets and expanding on knowledge in industry to allow economies to move forward

sustainably. If the Philippines would give the same level of attention to green building, we

ensure that the ecology vs. economy issue is not a matter of choosing between two priorities

but a matter of understanding how to harmonize these priorities to ensure sustainable

development. Further, it must be understood that green building must be holistic in its approach,

governments action to addressing environmental concerns in the past are on a piece meal basis.

There is a need to develop a national standard for green building to ensure that clear baselines


31/38

31

are established that will allow stakeholders to easily understand key priorities as established by

government.

In the development of BERDE, much of the challenge lies in the fact that there is no clear

standard for greener buildings set forth by government. In the Management category of BERDE,

the declaration ofBasis of Design was required to be submitted by project proponents, due to

the various standards (foreign and local) utilized by industry. This special submission is

requested from project proponents during the certification process, specifically to ensure that

they will measured against a single standard.

As the market matures, there has to be clearer rules setup by the national government to

lessen risk associated with green building investment. Roundtable, trainings, and seminars may

be provided both the public sector decision makers and their legislative staff to facilitate this

process.

There is much needed support to leapfrog the BERDE National Research Agenda. This

agenda seeks to get inputs from industry to facilitate green building research in the country.

Special trainings may be conducted later based on research findings to ensure industry has the

latest information on green building.

Technology is very dynamic in the 21st century and governance both in the private and

public sector must be able to adapt. Innovation and market demand is seen as primary driving

forces behind green building. A well-informed pool of industry stakeholders is key in adapting

to this very rapid change.

Clearly, the public is able and ready to take on the challenge of climate change and other

environmental concerns. But a clearer path towards this must be provided to enable a smoother

transition to a greener economy.


32/38

32

References

Adraneda, K., 2009. Study: Metro Manila 7th most vulnerable to climate change | ABS-CBN

News | Latest Philippine Headlines, Breaking News, Video, Analysis, Features. ABS-CBNNews website. Available at: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/metro-manila/03/06/09/study-metro-manila-7th-most-vulnerable-climate-change [AccessedDecember 27, 2010].

Agoncillo, L., 2011. Case Study on Occupational and Skills Needs in the Green Building Sector:Philippines (Interview).

AIA California Council, 2007. A working Definition: Integrated Project Delivery 2nd ed.,McGraw Hill Construction.

Alvarez, J., 2011. Case Study on Occupational and Skills Needs in the Green Building Sector:Philippines (Interview).

Amy R. Remo, 2009. ADB to extend $1.5B loan for clean energy. Philippine Daily Inquirer

website. Available at: http://services.inquirer.net/print/print.php?article_id=20090802-218435 [Accessed February 25, 2011].Aning, J., 2011. DOLE sends team to probe Etons construction site hazards - INQUIRER.net,

Philippine News for Filipinos. Philippine Daily Inquirer website. Available at:http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20110127-316983/DOLE-sends-team-to-probe-Etons-construction-site-hazards[Accessed March 3, 2011].

Antonio, L., 2010. Personal Communication with Liza Antonio, Executive Director, PhilippineBusiness for the Environment.

Arabejo, N., 2011. Personal Communication with Nestor Arabejo.Asia Business Council, n.d. Addressing Asias New Green Jobs Challenge.Autodesk, 2011. Autodesk - 3D Design & Engineering Software for Architecture,

Manufacturing, and Entertainment. Autodesk website. Available at:http://usa.autodesk.com/[Accessed March 7, 2011].

Ayala Land, 2011. Ayala Land :: Enhancing Land, Enriching Lives for More People. Ayala Landwebsite. Available at:http://www.ayalaland.com.ph/[Accessed March 7, 2011].

Aykan, S., 2010. The Case of the Leadership in Equity and Environmental Design. In UGEC2010 Conference.

Balita, 2009. (Metro News) Makatis solid waste program wins 2009 Galing Pook award :balita.ph. Balita website. Available at: http://balita.ph/2009/11/29/metro-news-makatis-solid-waste-program-wins-2009-galing-pook-award/[Accessed March 7, 2011].

Bondoc, A.Y., Resolution Urging the House of Representatives to Become the First GreenGovernment Building in the Philippines,

Bondoc, A.Y.P., 2009. An Act Establishing a Green Building Standard for Planning, Design,Construction, Operation, or Maintenance Practices, Renovation, Expansion and

Retrofitting of Government Building Projects in the Country,Calonzo, A.C., 2009. NDCC: Ondoy damage reaches almost P5B; deaths now at 246 - Nation -

GMA News Online - The go-to site for Filipinos everywhere - Latest Philippine News.GMA News TV website. Available at: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/173406/ndcc-ondoy-damage-reaches-almost-p5b-deaths-now-at-246 [Accessed 2011].

Calupe, E., 2011. Personal Communication with Erickberth Calupe.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/metro-manila/03/06/09/study-metro-manila-7th-most-vulnerable-climate-changehttp://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/metro-manila/03/06/09/study-metro-manila-7th-most-vulnerable-climate-changehttp://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/metro-manila/03/06/09/study-metro-manila-7th-most-vulnerable-climate-changehttp://services.inquirer.net/print/print.php?article_id=20090802-218435http://services.inquirer.net/print/print.php?article_id=20090802-218435http://services.inquirer.net/print/print.php?article_id=20090802-218435http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20110127-316983/DOLE-sends-team-to-probe-Etons-construction-site-hazardshttp://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20110127-316983/DOLE-sends-team-to-probe-Etons-construction-site-hazardshttp://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20110127-316983/DOLE-sends-team-to-probe-Etons-construction-site-hazardshttp://usa.autodesk.com/http://usa.autodesk.com/http://usa.autodesk.com/http://www.ayalaland.com.ph/http://www.ayalaland.com.ph/http://www.ayalaland.com.ph/http://balita.ph/2009/11/29/metro-news-makatis-solid-waste-program-wins-2009-galing-pook-award/http://balita.ph/2009/11/29/metro-news-makatis-solid-waste-program-wins-2009-galing-pook-award/http://balita.ph/2009/11/29/metro-news-makatis-solid-waste-program-wins-2009-galing-pook-award/http://www.gmanews.tv/story/173406/ndcc-ondoy-damage-reaches-almost-p5b-deaths-now-at-246http://www.gmanews.tv/story/173406/ndcc-ondoy-damage-reaches-almost-p5b-deaths-now-at-246http://www.gmanews.tv/story/173406/ndcc-ondoy-damage-reaches-almost-p5b-deaths-now-at-246http://www.gmanews.tv/story/173406/ndcc-ondoy-damage-reaches-almost-p5b-deaths-now-at-246http://www.gmanews.tv/story/173406/ndcc-ondoy-damage-reaches-almost-p5b-deaths-now-at-246http://balita.ph/2009/11/29/metro-news-makatis-solid-waste-program-wins-2009-galing-pook-award/http://balita.ph/2009/11/29/metro-news-makatis-solid-waste-program-wins-2009-galing-pook-award/http://www.ayalaland.com.ph/http://usa.autodesk.com/http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20110127-316983/DOLE-sends-team-to-probe-Etons-construction-site-hazardshttp://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20110127-316983/DOLE-sends-team-to-probe-Etons-construction-site-hazardshttp://services.inquirer.net/print/print.php?article_id=20090802-218435http://services.inquirer.net/print/print.php?article_id=20090802-218435http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/metro-manila/03/06/09/study-metro-manila-7th-most-vulnerable-climate-changehttp://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/metro-manila/03/06/09/study-metro-manila-7th-most-vulnerable-climate-change


33/38

33

Cardenas, L., 2011. Case Study on Occupational and Skills Needs in the Green Building Sector:Philippines (Interview).

CECOPHIL, Council of Engineering Consultants of the Philippines. CEOPHIL website.Available at:http://www.cecophil.com/[Accessed March 3, 2011].

Chmutina, K., 2010. Building Energy Consumption and its Regulations in China. China PolicyInstitute, School of Contemporary Chinese Studies, International House, The University of

Nottingham, (Discussion Paper 67). Available at:http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/cpi/documents/discussion-papers/discussion-paper-67-building-energy-regulation.pdf.

Congress, 2011. House of Representatives - 15th Congress of the Philippines. Congress website.Available at:http://www.congress.gov.ph/index.php [Accessed March 4, 2011].

CRRC, 2011. Home and Building Owners Info: What is a cool roof? Cool Roof Rating Councilwebsite. Available at:http://coolroofs.org/HomeandBuildingOwnersInfo.html#Whatisacoolroof [AccessedMarch 3, 2011].

Cruz, C.C. de la, 2008. Green Buildings: A test Case in Advocacy. Available at:http://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdf [Accessed March 7, 2011].

Department of Energy, a. Implementing Rules and Regulations Directing the Institutionalizationof a Government Energy Management Program (GEMP) ,

Department of Energy, b. PELMATP - Philippine Efficient Lighting Market TransformationProject. PELMATP - Philippine Efficient Lighting Market Transformation Project website.Available at:http://pelmatp.doe.gov.ph/index.htm [Accessed February 25, 2011].

Department of Energy, c. Philippine Energy Efficiency Project (PEEP) - Project Background.Philippine Energy Efficiency Project (PEEP) website. Available at:http://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/background [Accessed February 25, 2011].

Department of Energy, d. Philippine Energy Efficiency Project (PEEP) - Project Components.Philippine Energy Efficiency Project (PEEP) website. Available at:http://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/project-components [Accessed February 25, 2011].

Department of Public Works and Highways, 2005. Revised Implementing Rules and Regulationsof the National Building Code of the Philippines. Manila Standard.

Development Bank of the Philippines, 2010. DBP to build green building in Taguig City.Development Bank of the Philippines website. Available at:http://www.dbp.ph/news.php?id=44 [Accessed March 7, 2011].

DIALux, 2011. DIALux Lighting Software. DIALux website. Available at: http://dialux.com/[Accessed February 25, 2011].

DLSU, DLSU website. De La Salle University : Manila : Home. Available at:

http://www.dlsu.edu.ph/[Accessed March 7, 2011].DOE, 2008. Energy Summit. Philippine Energy Summit 2008, Department of Energy website.

Available at:http://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/[Accessed March 7, 2011].DOE PEEP, 2010a. Efficient Building Initiative. Philippine Energy Efficiency Project website.

Available at:http://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/efficient-building-initiative[Accessed March7, 2011].
http://www.cecophil.com/http://www.cecophil.com/http://www.cecophil.com/http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/cpi/documents/discussion-papers/discussion-paper-67-building-energy-regulation.pdfhttp://www.nottingham.ac.uk/cpi/documents/discussion-papers/discussion-paper-67-building-energy-regulation.pdfhttp://www.nottingham.ac.uk/cpi/documents/discussion-papers/discussion-paper-67-building-energy-regulation.pdfhttp://www.congress.gov.ph/index.phphttp://www.congress.gov.ph/index.phphttp://www.congress.gov.ph/index.phphttp://coolroofs.org/HomeandBuildingOwnersInfo.html#Whatisacoolroofhttp://coolroofs.org/HomeandBuildingOwnersInfo.html#Whatisacoolroofhttp://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdfhttp://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdfhttp://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdfhttp://pelmatp.doe.gov.ph/index.htmhttp://pelmatp.doe.gov.ph/index.htmhttp://pelmatp.doe.gov.ph/index.htmhttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/backgroundhttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/backgroundhttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/project-componentshttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/project-componentshttp://www.dbp.ph/news.php?id=44http://www.dbp.ph/news.php?id=44http://dialux.com/http://dialux.com/http://www.dlsu.edu.ph/http://www.dlsu.edu.ph/http://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/http://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/http://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/http://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/efficient-building-initiativehttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/efficient-building-initiativehttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/efficient-building-initiativehttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/efficient-building-initiativehttp://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/http://www.dlsu.edu.ph/http://dialux.com/http://www.dbp.ph/news.php?id=44http://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/project-componentshttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/backgroundhttp://pelmatp.doe.gov.ph/index.htmhttp://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdfhttp://www.doe.gov.ph/e%20summit/presentation/Green%20Buildings%20-%20dela%20cruz.pdfhttp://coolroofs.org/HomeandBuildingOwnersInfo.html#Whatisacoolroofhttp://www.congress.gov.ph/index.phphttp://www.nottingham.ac.uk/cpi/documents/discussion-papers/discussion-paper-67-building-energy-regulation.pdfhttp://www.nottingham.ac.uk/cpi/documents/discussion-papers/discussion-paper-67-building-energy-regulation.pdfhttp://www.cecophil.com/


34/38

34

DOE PEEP, 2010b. Project Objectives. Philippine Energy Efficiency Project website. Availableat:http://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/objectives[Accessed March 7, 2011].

DOE PEEP, 2010c. Super ESCO. Philippine Energy Efficiency Project website. Available at:http://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/super-esco[Accessed March 12, 2011].

ENPAP, 2011. Energy Efficiency Practitioners Association of the Philippines. ENPAP website.Available at:http://www.enpap.org.ph/[Accessed March 7, 2011].

Espina, M.A., 2011. Case Study on Occupational and Skills Needs in the Green Building Sector:Philippines (Interview).

Evangelista, K., 2009. Pepeng damage to crops, infrastructure reaches P7.1B - INQUIRER.net,Philippine News for Filipinos. Philippine Daily Inquirer website. Available at:http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/regions/view/20091013-229856/Pepeng-damage-to-crops-infrastructure-reaches-P71B[Accessed March 2, 2011].

Finkel, T., Duhaylungsod, N. & Bauer, S., 2010. Climate Change and Private SectorDevelopment: Integrating green growth strategies into the MSME Development Plan 2010-

2016L. D. S. Steigerwald, ed., Private Sector Promotion Programme PSP SMEDSEP.

GBCI, 2011a. Building Certification. GBCI website. Available at: http://www.gbci.org/main-nav/building-certification/leed-certification.aspx [Accessed March 3, 2011].

GBCI, 2011b. Green Building Certification Institute. GBCI website. Available at:http://www.gbci.org/homepage.aspx[Accessed March 3, 2011].

GMA News, 2010. IFC signs risk-sharing facility with BDO | Pnoy sa Palasyo. GMA Newswebsite. Available at:http://www.gmanews.tv/100days/story/208987/ifc-signs-risk-sharing-facility-with-bdo[Accessed March 7, 2011].

GMA News, 2009. NDCC: Pepeng damage over P16B; P11B in agriculture - Nation - GMANews Online - The go-to site for Filipinos everywhere - Latest Philippine News. GMANews TV website. Available at: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/175021/ndcc-pepeng-damage-over-p16b-p11b-in-agriculture[Accessed 2011].

Herrera-Dy, B. et al., 2009. Ordinance Requiring the Design, Construction or Retrofitting ofBuildings, Other Structures and Movable Properties to Meet Minimum Standards of a

Green Infrastructure, Providing Incentives Thereof and for Other Purposes. , Available at:http://www.quezoncity.gov.ph/images/Downloadables/Announcements/sp-1917_s2009.pdf[Accessed March 5, 2011].

Hong, W. & Chiang, M.S., n.d. Trends in Asias Building Energy Efficiency Policies.Huang, J. & Deringer, J., 2007. Status of Energy Efficient Building Codes in Asia (China, Hong

Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, India) , HongKong SAR: Asia Business Council.

Huovila, P. et al., 2009. Buildings and Climate Change: Summary for Decision Makers J.Yamamoto & P. Graham, eds., United Nations Environment Programme. Available at:

http://globealliance.org/Libraries/Resources/UNEP_2009_Summary_for_Decision-Makers.sflb.ashx.

IFC-WB, Doing Business. Available at:http://www.doingbusiness.org/data/exploretopics/dealing-with-licenses.

IIEE, 2011. Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. IIEE website.Available at:http://www.iiee.org.ph/home/[Accessed March 3, 2011].
http://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/objectiveshttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/objectiveshttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/objectiveshttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/super-escohttp://peep.doe.gov.ph/index.php/super-escohttp://www.enpap.org.ph/http://www.enpap.org.ph/http://www.enpap.org.ph/http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/regions/view/20091013-229856/Pepeng-damage-to-crops-infrastructure-reaches-P71Bhttp://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/regions/view/20091013-229856/Pepeng-damage-to-crops-infrastructure-reaches-P71Bhttp://newsinfo.

cruz - occupational and skills needs in the green buildin

Documents