Jardine Schindler Philippines wins major modernization project at RCBC Plaza

"We’re proud to be partnering with RCBC Plaza to help modernize their complex which plays a unique role as a cultural hub within the Makati CBD," said Rachel Thu, Managing Director, Jardine Schindler Philippines.

This project involves a comprehensive modernization of the building’s vertical transportation system, including taking over the maintenance service of the elevators in the building and the installation of our Schindler PORT Destination Control System. Schindler PORT technology optimizes and enhances the way people move throughout the building. Offering a personalized service and access control to improve the overall building experience.

Our system seamlessly integrates building access and navigation, allowing users to move through complexes to their destinations using a badge, or IT interface and a system ready for integration with smartphone control. Schindler PORT enhances comfort by minimizing waiting times. Additionally, it improves energy efficiency through intelligent traffic management and provides building owners with tools for real-time performance tracking and adaptive maintenance.

As part of the modernization, we are also introducing a new escalator small split solution, specifically designed for existing, live buildings. This solution addresses site constraints, optimizes logistics, and minimizes operational disruption – demonstrating Schindler’s ability to deliver innovative solutions in complex environments.

"This project win reflects our strong capabilities in delivering large-scale modernization projects within complex, high-occupancy environments," says Yeow Seng Teo, Group Modernization Sales Director of Jardine Schindler Group. "By combining advanced technologies such as Schindler PORT with our deep modernization and maintenance expertise, we are proud to support RCBC Plaza in enhancing building performance user experience, and long-term operational efficiency."

RCBC Plaza, developed by RCBC Realty Corporation, is a joint venture between the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (GIC) and majority-owned by the Yuchengco Group of Companies (YGC). The building is a Grade A, high-occupancy corporate hub, so it’s important to manage the operations with minimal disruption. Built in 2001, RCBC Plaza is one of the most recognizable and prestigious office complexes in the Philippines and the complex was considered by its developers to be the largest and most modern office development in the country. Envisioned as a "city within a building," it brings together premium corporate offices with cultural and educational facilities, making it a home and premier address for several Asia Pacific and European regions’ diplomatic missions and consular services. Beyond diplomacy, RCBC Plaza is also in IT Hub with several business process outsourcing and tech companies and is considered one of the first buildings to take advantage of the BPO boom in the country wayback 2000s. In 2021, RCBC Plaza became one of the first buildings in the Philippines to feature smart building capabilities, with a fully integrated Building Automation System (BAS) covering security, fire protection, and air conditioning. Our team started work on the project in March this year.