Sustainability has long been a key consideration in responsible urban development, influencing how communities are planned, built, and managed. As cities continue to expand, features such as walkability, green open spaces, efficient infrastructure, and environmental stewardship remain essential to creating communities that can thrive over the long term. This commitment has been a defining part of Ayala Land Inc. (ALI)'s Nuvali, where environmental stewardship remains central to the estate's long-term development strategy.

Nuvali strengthened its sustainability credentials after its Lakeside and East Bloc districts were awarded BERDE 5-Stars Certification under BERDE Districts Version 1.0.0 by the Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC). The distinction marks the first BERDE 5-Star district certifications within an ALI estate and makes Nuvali the first commercial business district in the country to be recognized under the BERDE Districts framework.

Gilbert Ramos, senior project development manager of Ayala Land Estates Inc., said the recognition reflects the company's continued focus on creating communities designed for long-term growth and resilience. “Receiving the BERDE 5-Stars Certification under BERDE Districts for both Lakeside and East Bloc reflects our commitment to building sustainable and future-ready communities that create long-term value for residents, businesses, and stakeholders.”

Established by the Philippine Green Building Council, BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence) serves as the country's national green building rating system. It evaluates developments based on environmental performance, resource efficiency, and sustainability standards. Rowena Ramos, vice chair of the PHILGBC Board of Trustees, said the recognition awarded to Nuvali’s Lakeside Evozone and East Bloc districts highlights the estate’s efforts to integrate sustainable practices into its long-term development strategy.

The two award-winning districts play distinct roles within the estate. Lakeside serves as Nuvali’s lifestyle and leisure hub and is currently undergoing enhancements that include a direct connection to Ayala Malls Nuvali, aimed at creating a more integrated visitor experience. The project is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of the year. Meanwhile, East Bloc continues to take shape as a center for business and commercial activity, supporting the estate’s vision for a more connected and balanced urban environment in Southern Luzon.

The BERDE certification recognizes the planning principles integrated across both districts, including walkability, green open spaces, efficient land use, mobility connectivity, water management systems, and resilient infrastructure. Supporting Nuvali’s continued expansion are recent developments such as the establishment of the Nuvali Parish Church in partnership with the Archdiocese of San Pablo and the donation of land for a future LGU Satellite Office in collaboration with the City Government of Santa Rosa, further strengthening the estate’s role as a growing business and lifestyle destination in CALABARZON.

As sustainability becomes an increasingly important measure of successful urban development, Nuvali’s latest recognition underscores the value of long-term planning. Through continued investments in green infrastructure, mobility, open spaces, and responsible growth, the estate demonstrates how environmental stewardship can be integrated into community development while supporting the needs of residents, businesses, and future generations.