SMART-BUILDING technology could give office landlords an edge in attracting and retaining corporate tenants, as Makati’s Yuchengco Center becomes the first building in the Philippines to earn certifications for its technology and digital infrastructure, according to a prominent real estate advisory and brokerage firm in the Philippines.
Philip Añonuevo, Leechiu Property Consultants’ co-founder and executive director of commercial leasing, said office spaces today need more than a good address.
“They need proven connectivity, smart systems and the resilience to keep operating no matter what,” Añonuevo said, adding that these certifications assess building technology and digital infrastructure designed to improve tenant experience, operational efficiency and business continuity.
The Yuchengco Tower, developed by House of Investments Inc. (HI) and Japan’s Sojitz Corp., received a Gold rating under SmartScore and a Platinum rating under WiredScore, making it the first building in the country to hold both certifications, according to Leechiu.
The Yuchengco Center’s systems include mobile building access, digital visitor check-in, smart elevators, indoor air-quality monitoring and energy sub-metering.
Its infrastructure also includes fiber connectivity from four internet providers and mobile coverage from Globe Telecom Inc. and Smart Communications Inc.
These features are designed to help tenants monitor energy and water consumption, reduce waiting times and maintain connectivity during service disruptions. Fault detection systems can also identify equipment problems before they lead to failures.
WiredScore head of Southeast Asia Queenie Tang said the certification reflects the building owners’ focus on how occupants use office spaces and how technology can support their daily operations.
“From its digital infrastructure to the technology that shapes the occupier experience day-to-day, this is a building designed with the next twenty years in mind,” Tang said.
Tang said the achievement could set a benchmark for landlords in the Philippines as digital performance becomes more important in attracting and retaining tenants.
The building’s WiredScore Platinum rating is the highest level under the certification system. Its SmartScore Gold rating recognizes a high level of innovation in the use of technology and building processes.
The Yuchengco Center is located along Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenue in the Makati central business district, near Ayala Avenue and Paseo de Roxas.
WiredScore, which launched in the Philippines in November 2024, provides certifications assessing digital connectivity and smart-building technology in real estate.