Sun Life achieves gold rating for sustainable design

CEBU, Philippines - Sun Life Financial-Philippines (SLFP), the country’s first and longest-standing life insurance company, sealed yet another milestone when its new headquarters in the Philippines, the Sun Life Centre, achieved a LEED Gold certification for Core and Shell.

The Sun Life Centre is the first in the country to receive the LEED Gold certification in the said category.  LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally recognized green rating system for sustainable design and structures, and is given by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

Situated in the bustling Bonifacio Global City hub, The Sun Life Centre prides itself as one of the pioneers of green building design in the country.

“In the same way that we introduced life insurance to Filipinos, we are again investing in a brighter future by adopting a greener lifestyle. And the Sun Life Centre is one of our efforts towards this initiative,” espoused SLFP president and chief executive officer RizaMantaring.

The Sun Life Centre is a P2-billion investment that showcases the advantages of sustainable design.

“Features of the Sun Life Centre such as rainwater harvesting and motion-sensors to regulate electricity consumption lead to valuable energy savings,” says Armand Apuya, Head of Administration Services which spearheaded the building project.

“Double-glazed windows block heat but not sunlight, while the use of zero CFCs prevents further ozone depletion. CO2 sensors flush out pollutants inside the building, improving the distribution of fresh air. And its unique Green Roof provides relief and a refreshing view of the BGC skyline for cubicle-stuck employees,” Apuya added. 

At the heart of the Sun Life Centre is a culture of sustainability, which includes reducing carbon footprint while investing in clean and renewable energy. In fact, 61% of Sun Life’s global commercial real estate have been accredited by systems like LEED as being optimal for the environment. 

“Sun Life’s LEED Gold certification demonstrates tremendous green building leadership,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council.  “The urgency of USGBC’s mission has challenged the industry to move faster and reach further than ever before, and the Sun Life Centre serves as a prime example with just how much we can accomplish.”  (FREEMAN)