In response to the growing Filipino homebuyers’ demand for convenience, energy efficiency, and security, real estate developers are now building smart homes that fit a modern lifestyle. These home units are provided with a setup where appliances and devices are controlled remotely via smartphones or voice assistants, provide enhanced security, help reduce energy consumption, and improve the overall living experience.
Fitted with an intelligent home network, smart homes are equipped with connected and remote-control devices such as smart speakers, communication units, programmable control buttons, and smart plugs for the control of non-smart devices. There are surveillance devices such as security cameras, motion sensors, and remote control door locks connected to a network for access control and management. In the same manner, there is also the adoption of lights, sensors, and household appliances to the internet or local network.
While smart home automation comes with extra costs, the purchasing power of the growing middle class allows the investment into smart home devices. According to statista.com, there is an “increase in availability and affordability of smart home devices” due to the entry of manufacturers, driving competition and pulling prices down to an expanding market.
Recognized for lifestyle-oriented and innovative developments, RLC Residences stands at the forefront of offering smart homes from their future-ready property portfolio. Their developments, such as The Sapphire Bloc, feature the energy-efficient Smart Light that can be easily controlled remotely. Its Smart power outlets automatically turn on and off according to schedule, lowering energy costs and the risk of power-related accidents. For added security, smart homes are also equipped with a Smart Lock that utilizes a fingerprint, numeric passcode, an encrypted physical keycard, and a special app. In addition, the audio-video intercom allows unit owners to screen visitors in the lobby area.
From smart homes being built in urban centers, the development of smart cities in the country isn’t too far behind. A recent survey conducted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the World Bank showed that out of the 115 urban local government units (LGUs), 70 percent are planning for such development, with 61 percent smart city projects in operation, and 56 percent have development policies already in place. Statistica.com reports that the country is “experiencing a surge in the adoption of smart city technologies, with a focus on enhancing transportation infrastructure and improving public safety.” However, the road to building smart cities is not without challenges. A study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) identified key elements such as operational costs and lack of interoperability. LGUs are required to build the necessary ICT infrastructure and systems, while the majority of LGUs have to upgrade their systems. Aside from significant financial costs, these requirements seek support from various stakeholders.
Owned and managed by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), New Clark City is the government’s centerpiece, with current developments designed to build a sustainable and smart city. From the private sector, the Filinvest City township takes the lead as the country’s prime example of a sustainable and smart city.
With three decades of development, the fully integrated and self-contained township in Muntinlupa hosts residences, leisure hubs, top educational institutions, and medical and wellness facilities with
enhanced security, connectivity, and accessibility. To ensure security in the 244-hectare prime property, CCTVs are installed in strategic locations and common areas of the city. With the infrastructure for connectivity already installed in the city, the public can access free WIFI and the FC App that features a cashless and environment-friendly commuter transport system. Pedestrians are afforded accessible pathways for easy walkability and safety, while motorists are provided with e-vehicle charging stations.
The Filinvest City development is also a showcase of its commitment to sustainability. To manage energy consumption, its District Cooling System, the largest cooling facility in the country, enables 16 of the city’s buildings to utilize chilled water to efficiently cool the interiors of the Northgate Cyberzone. The Festival Mall, one of the city’s commercial developments, has solar panels that supply 28 percent of the mall’s energy requirement. The township also has an upgraded sewage treatment plant and a new water treatment plant for recycling water for landscaping.
For the steps taken and strides achieved in sustainability, Filinvest City earned the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold in Neighborhood Development Certification by the US Green Building Council, as well as a BERDE-Certification with a 3-star rating under the Philippine Green Building Council, making the township the first and only green-certified central business district in the country.