Ayala Land’s 752-hectare Vermosa estate has secured the highest green district rating in the Philippines. The Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC) awarded the development its BERDE 5-Star Certification under the BERDE Districts assessment scheme. Located across Imus and Dasmariñas in Cavite, the master-planned estate integrates commercial zones, housing developments, sports facilities and public recreation spaces.

The award recognises environmentally friendly planning measures designed into the overall layout. At the centre of the scheme lies the 143-hectare North Central Business District (NCBD), which dedicates 19 hectares strictly to green open space. Environmental features embedded across the site include cycle lanes, walkable pavements, greywater recycling networks, energy-efficient infrastructure and water conservation controls. The site infrastructure has also been constructed to withstand long-term climate pressures.

The BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence) standard evaluates projects on environmental performance beyond compulsory regulatory standards. Achieving the five-star district tier requires extensive verification of resource efficiency and sustainable design throughout the master plan.

John Estacio, Vermosa Senior Project Development Head, said: “Receiving the BERDE 5-Star Certification under BERDE Districts reflects our commitment to building sustainable, future-ready communities that create long-term value for residents, businesses, and stakeholders. By grounding our master planning in verified environmental standards, we provide homebuyers with a healthier, active environment and offer commercial locators a competitive, eco-efficient platform to grow.”

The certification highlights Ayala Land Estates’ strategy of combining economic growth with environmental design across large-scale developments. The estate continues its expansion as a key regional hub south of Metro Manila, providing pedestrian-friendly streets and sustainable infrastructure for residents and commercial occupiers.