US embassy annex cited as ‘green’ building

MANILA, Philippines - US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. and Rodelito Ocampo of Makati Development Corporation (MDC) unveiled a plaque certifying that the embassy’s new office annex (NOX) facility meets internationally-recognized LEED Gold standards for green buildings. 

Thomas and Ocampo, MDC’s Manila NOX project director, officiated at the ceremony recognizing MDC for demonstrating Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) in the construction of the NOX facility. 

The event also applauded MDC for maintaining an impressive safety record during the 3-year construction period and highlighted the dynamic US-Filipino synergy in construction and environmental issues.

Over the past three years, MDC workers have accrued 10-million plus safe hours of work without a single recordable lost-time accident per Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Thomas congratulated the 1,200-plus workers, staff, and engineers employed by MDC and subcontractors who have worked tirelessly to make the project a success.

The US Green Building Council (USGBC) awards four tiers of excellence in LEED certification – Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. The NOX 1 structure is a LEED Gold building, and the third building in the Philippines to receive LEED Gold certification. The more technically complex Veterans Affairs Out-Patient Clinic, known as NOX 3, is a LEED Certified building.

The US Department of State is committed to providing eco-friendly, secure and functional facilities that represent the US government to nations around the world.

The Manila NOX project represents not just American but international values and the best in international architecture, engineering, sustainability, and construction execution.