This article was published on: August 26th, 2021

Tags: announcement, company news, featured employee, T1, team heads

Discovering new frontiers is not unknown territory to Gabriela Merino. After completing her studies in Spain, she brought her architectural expertise to Southeast Asia in search of exciting projects and opportunities.

“I love traveling and I enjoy working and living in multicultural environments and facing new challenges every day,” she shared.

Gabriela made her way around the world by collecting inspiration from different cultures and creating her professional portfolio. A certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and already greatly experienced in high-end Hospitality, Residential, and large-scale Retail projects, Gabriela is now widening her skillset to Commercial, Corporate and Industrial requirements also.

Taking the Big Step

Gabriela later joined T1 Project Management after finding its diverse project portfolio and variety of services offered as a new learning opportunity and a challenge. She liked that the individuals she works with get to take on different roles and they all learn through their collaboration.

“I am inspired by the leadership of the company formed by a group of talented entrepreneurs that are full of motivation and knowledge,” she added when asked about the company’s leaders. While Gabriela loved their passion for always seeking new ways to develop themselves and their business, she finds greater satisfaction in the sense of belongingness from being surrounded by a supportive and encouraging team.

Pre-Construction as the bigger challenge

Now stepping into the role of being the T1 Project Management Head of Pre-Construction, she wanted to put much emphasis on its crucial role in the industry. “Pre-Construction is the time to thoroughly assess and plan to identify and mitigate risks associated with constructing a project.” Gabriela stated. “They say you finish a project the way you start it, so we want to start each and every project well.”

Programme and Budget are the two most important areas in the Pre-Construction planning stage. Gabriela noted that planning the timeline and pining down the cost of each project component should be accurately addressed for successful project delivery.

Gabriela’s overarching vision is to keep the team growing and to build on each other’s strengths. Gabriela wants to ensure that the team “reaches its full potential by providing a complete range of premium project management services and innovative solutions to our valued clients.”

This article was published on: June 2nd, 2021
Tags: banking, Client Spotlight, collaboration, digital, finance, groundbreaking,
innovation, launch, partnership, project management, quantity surveying, T1,
UnionBank

The UnionBank of the Philippines strengthens its position as a leader in technology
and banking in the country. Inspired by their commitment to bringing excellence
and honing talent, the Aboitiz-led company has successfully inaugurated The
UnionBank Innovation Campus, the first in the Philippines.
Designed to be the organization’s bedrock for the creation and incubation of
solutions for banking, financial technology, and other industries, the one-hectare
facility held its digital groundbreaking ceremony last May 26, Wednesday.
“We’re excited for the campus because it’s a dream come true for the entire
organization and it’s also a testament to the commitment of management and the
board of directors to innovation as a major strategic thrust,” UnionBank president
Edwin Bautista said during the virtual groundbreaking ceremony. “This is also
consistent with the Aboitiz group’s focus on innovation as a pillar for growth moving
forward,” he added.
T1 was tapped to collaborate and partner with UnionBank as the official project
management and quantity surveying firm. With the shared vision of pushing
forward development, sustainability, and innovation, the Philippines’ leading project
services company was successful in delivering excellent results in time for the
groundbreaking ceremony.
According to UnionBank, this innovation campus is expected to be completed by
the middle or third quarter of next year. It will also operate as a hub for blockchain,
artificial intelligence and other new technologies that will revolutionize the Filipino’s
way of life.
“Working with UnionBank was a pleasure and a boost for T1. “We are very proud to
be a part of this milestone. T1 aims to collaborate with companies who stand for
positive change and innovation in development in all sectors, not just construction.
Working with UnionBank is inspiring,” Ivan Deinla, Senior Project Manager
expressed.

Bautista added that this innovation campus is a testament and affirmation for the
Filipinos who are going through a hard time because of the pandemic. He expressed
that companies like UnionBank continue to invest and vet for a brighter future for
the Philippines. Despite the current lockdown restrictions, Bautista said the bank
was starting to build the campus for the future when it would be safe again to
interact with more people in the new normal.

This article was published on: April 6th, 2021

Tags: construction, expertise, mistakes, pitfalls, T1, T1 Project Management

By: Luz Arceo – Project Manager

While every project has its unique aspects, many functions and requirements remain consistent and are made by default. Managing a project brings the need to identify which activities are to be subjected to certain standards to ensure quality work and to provide uniformity. The demand for foresight is perhaps one of the most important aspects of project management to minimize mistakes and the waste of resources.

However, there can still be a lot of circumstances where things could go wrong. While pitfalls are common in construction, there are ways and risk mitigating strategies to avoid them:

1. If You Can’t Explain It, The Team Won’t Understand It

A key component to a successful project is starting the project well. Though it may sound like a lot of hard work in the beginning, defining the goal of the project and being clear with the requirements reduces confusion, limits the probability of redesign, and create a launch platform around which your project team can gather. In T1, we create a Design Brief that covers all aspects of a project. This is done in collaboration with the client’s team, taking consideration their specific requirements. Having a Design Brief is a great starting point for a great working experience and a smooth sailing project management.

2. Get your Ducks in a Row (Perform Due Diligence)

It might surprise you to learn that many projects start well in the beginning, but only to be stalled by the discovery of land ownership issues or zoning problems, or boundary issues, or access issues. We recommend clients to invest in performing a Due Diligence per project to know the scope and limitations, as well as prepare for all the needed documents prior to construction.

Get a reputable geodetic engineer and survey correctly. Make sure you have a trusted engineer with the surveyors to ensure that they cover everything, especially the hard-to-reach areas. Measure surveys against your Title. Check your title certificate: Verify who owns the land; Are they the same entity that is conducting the project? Will this be a signatory issue later? Get a reputable topographic survey and geotechnical survey and make sure all of these are done properly. Make sure survey points tie back to a formal survey reference point and make sure future surveys use the same point of reference. In essence, the Due Diligence should verify that your project can deliver what you need it to deliver without inhibitors. In case there are, due diligence allows you the chance to take necessary measures before it’s too late.

3. Resource Your Project

When we think about project delivery, we often think about what can be delivered in house and what needs to done external to the organization. In our experience, we often find clients relying on the staff who are very able but perhaps don’t necessarily have the exact skill set required. This is because of various reasons; maybe they have been employed for a different purpose, or there was a mismatch when it comes to expectations of the job.

T1 recommends taking a frank look at your team and deciding whether they can fulfil roles and satisfy the requirements while also carrying out their existing duties. The cost of overburdening or misassigning your in-house team is only likely to appear somewhere around the mid-point of construction. By this time, you may be hearing about cost overruns and delays and wondering why you didn’t bring in a professional team in the first place.

4. Set your Budget & Program

Set your project budget early and make sure your team understands what the budget is for. Consultants design to price brackets: they know what to put in to meet the rough order of cost. Give them guidance to avoid redesigning but don’t give them all your budget. Keep a bit back for inevitable overruns.

5. Prepare Your Contracts

If possible, use a standard form of contract for all engagements. A supplier provided contract will be written to protect the supplier, whether that is an engineer, a contractor, or even the project manager. Try to avoid using a different form of agreement with each supplier as it will become very difficult to manage in the long run.

6. Make Coordination a Priority

If you aren’t using a BIM, then coordination can be a major issue. Consider how the design is released and know if the architect and engineer are releasing their design on the same day, it probably isn’t coordinated and may cause design lapses in the project.

7. Anyone can Start a Project but not Everyone can Finish it

It seems obvious, but finishing a project isn’t really straightforward. Start thinking about what a finished project means to you and your team. Make sure this is discussed with your team early, to ensure expectations are aligned.

Learn more about how you can manage a construction project better. Contact Lana Kier at lana.kier@kmcmaggroup.com or call us at 0917-860-6400 for a consultation.

Luz Arceo is one of T1’s most trusted project managers. She has been successfully delivering construction projects for over 23 years with various projects throughout the Philippine archipelago.

This article was published on: March 25th, 2021

Tags: design tips, downsizing, office, relocation, remote, renovation, space allocations, T1, T1 Project Management, virtual, workplace, workspaces

By: Kat Sarayba – Assistant Design Manager

The new normal workplace is constantly evolving. This is why upgrading or revamping your office becomes pivotal in your business adapting to the changing times. Before designing a space, it is important to determine the overall goal, purpose assigned to respective areas, and the occupants’ workflow. Whether it is a renovation, relocation or downsizing, maximizing your space will help make your business operations more efficient and keep workers productive.

Here are some important considerations to remember:

• Migrate to a virtual/remote workspace.

One thing this pandemic has taught us is the importance of virtual databases and digital communication platforms. Initiatives pre-pandemic on going paperless and being open to having employees working remotely greatly helped some companies in adapting to on-and-off lockdowns and office restrictions.

Converting paper files to computer file formats and uploading them all to the Cloud. Using web-based programs such as GSuite or Office 365 allow all employees ease of access to company files as well as collaborate on one file together without needing to be physically in the same space.

• Maximize what you already have.

Save costs and the environment by reusing existing office furniture, material finishes that are still intact, and lighting fixtures. Reupholstering wearing accent chairs and sofas, repainting/re-application of laminate for tables, and even repurposing finishes, can maximize existing items already available in the office.

Get creative with design professionals to help think of ways to make your office look modern while using existing furniture. Having a collaborative session will definitely shell out a fresh look for the space.

• Consider open concept layouts with some enclosed multi-purpose rooms.

The open office layout is the latest office design trend for its flexiblility and how easy it is to create double or multi-purpose spaces in offices in this design. The traditional cubicle has been replaced with hot desks/shared desks, personal computers exchanged for portable devices like laptops.

Going virtual eases file-sharing and transfer of information while also allowing for flexible work arrangements. This reduces the need for a designated space for every employee, and allows your business to operate no matter the circumstances.

• Prioritize utilities and storage spaces.

Auxiliary spaces, such as, utility rooms, data centers/IT rooms and storage space are often overlooked and is one of the major changes needed in the office. Data centers are essentially the backbones of a workplace as they contain the most critical assets of a company Movable furniture, using operable walls to subdivide large rooms, and breakout spaces for large gatherings are becoming the norm in several newly renovated offices. Open spaces like these allow for essentially smaller offices and could also help adjust to changes in employees’ work shifts if need be.

However, it is important to be mindful of noise levels in this kind of layout as it might impede concentration and productivity. Apart from adding acoustic fixtures on high noise level areas, a hybrid model that pairs open layouts with some enclosed focus rooms and meeting rooms can make your workspace foster high performance and productivity.

An appropriately designed workplace does not happen overnight. It takes collaboration, clearly set out goals, and trusted experts that will ensure that you have a cost-effective, beautiful, and functional space to occupy.

Interested to refresh your space? Contact us Lana Kier at lana.kier@kmcmaggroup.com or call us at 0917-860-6400 for a consultation.

Katrina Sarayba is one of T1’s creative minds. As an assistant design manager, she is at the helm of creating spaces that embody the culture and identity of each client.

This article was published on: March 3rd, 2021

Tags: construction, construction safety, COVID, new normal, pandemic, Philippines, site safety, tips, workplace

Susceptibility to COVID-19 transmission increases as more business and industries resume their operations after the Philippines is placed under more lenient quarantine restrictions. In a recent survey, 90% of respondents who are immunologists, infectious-disease researchers, and virologists believe that the virus will become endemic in the long run.

For the construction industry, this only rationalizes the reality of accepting -a “new normal” by enforcing key measures that will guarantee safety and limit the transmission for smoother operations.

Here is a brief rundown on important measures to be implemented:

• Limiting Exposure

Observance of good hygiene plays a big role in controlling viral transmission, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The placement of proper handwashing, sanitizing, and disinfecting stations around the site is required.

Tool sharing should also be limited unless necessary. For tools and equipment that need to be shared, disinfection must be done before and after use. Cleaning and sanitation of common and shared areas should be done regularly to ensure public health safety.

Crowd management must be done efficiently to limit face-to-face interactions. This can be done by communicating remotely via mobile or radio devices. To remove further exposure while commuting or travel, providing barracks to house workers on site is seen as an effective alternative. If the space does not allow this, contractors are encouraged to provide shuttle services to the workers.

• Personnel Protection

In line with standards and protocols implemented by the IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases), wearing a mask is required in addition to the personal protective equipment that includes fall protection, hard hats, hearing protection, and other necessary gear.

Depending on operational need and hazard assessment, wearing a face shield is an effective layer of protection that workers can opt to wear. Signages must also be stationed around the site to remind of proper hygiene, handwashing, appropriate physical distancing, and other pertinent safety reminders.

• Planning Ahead

Preparation is always key in the face of any crisis or challenge. Developing a COVID-19 Exposure plan is a proactive approach in ensuring that clients, managers, and workers are briefed and aware of their roles.

In dealing with the pandemic, having the right information can also save lives. Educating managers and workers to monitor and detect signs and symptoms of COVID-19 will stop outbreaks or a possible transmission.

It is also important to always have a Safety Officer present on the site. The number of safety officers needed at a time depends on the number of workers on the site at any given point.

Lastly, conducting regular health and safety audits on-site can help monitor possible issues and come up with solutions to resolve it. Coordination with local government units is also important as COVID-19 construction guidelines may vary depending on the location of the site.

Beyond the threats of the pandemic, the wellness and safety of workers on-site should be of utmost priority. The professional management and handling of operations will definitely help in assessing the risks and ensuring smoother conduct of projects.For excellent project management services, contact Lana Kier at lana.kier@kmcmaggroup.com or call us at (+63) 2-7971-0238.

This article was published on: February 9th, 2021
Tags: business, commercial contractor, company, contractor, office, Office fit out,
office renovation, T1, workplace

Having an office fit out may be overwhelming for many, especially to those who are
doing it for the first time. Business owners are often encouraged consider office fit
outs as an investment in their company’s growth and success. According to a recent
study, 88% of companies believe that office fit outs had a positive impact on
employees. Hence, you can say that a successful office fit out can boost the
productivity of your employees and improve business.
While many people confuse it with renovation, office fit out refers to the process of
making an interior space ready for occupation and use. As a common practice in
commercial establishments and real estate, the spaces inside a building are left bare
for the occupants to be able to modify it according to their needs and requirements.
In essence, office fit outs involve taking an empty space and transforming it to a
usable office set up depending on a company’s preference and goals.
Fit out Inclusions
Office fit outs usually include putting up architectural features like different kinds of
partitions, window placements, door fittings, plumbing, and ventilation. In contrast
to renovation which commonly focuses on the design aspect and revamping the
space for aesthetics, fit outs highlight the changes and customization of the space
for functionality. Generally, an office fit out takes longer than a simple renovation
process.
Different Types of Fit Outs:
Similar with other improvement projects, there are also two types of fit outs
depending on its inclusions.
Category A – Functional
Category A is the basic fit out and includes all the processes like electrical and
mechanical installations. It also covers suspended ceilings, fire systems and alarms,
lighting systems, and air conditioning systems. This produces is a basic functional

unit with some utilities such as electrical wirings and plumbing fixtures already in
place. This type of fit out also covers internal surface finishes, fitted lights, and blinds.
Usually, a Category A fit out will involve installing features such as:
 Electrical and Data
 Raised access floors
 HVAC systems
 Fire protection systems
 Toilets
Category B – Aesthetic
Category B covers the final changes and the modifications to help an office
transform into a company’s preferred look and design. This type of fit out involves
installing features and other systems that were not covered in Category A fit out.
Essentially, Category B fit outs cover the aesthetic design fit out phase where the
space is made to be more specific to the business’ branding and style.
This phase may involve window treatment, adding furniture, installing the lighting,
adding some flooring, partitioning, painting, and branding. Category B fit out
highlights the individuality and identity of businesses. Processes in this category
should be derived from the company’s culture, work ethics, and team size with the
goal of creating a compelling brand image.
Category B fit outs also modify the space further by adding and modifying spaces
into private workspaces, reception areas, common rooms, pantry, and meeting
rooms. Floor finishes, door installations, and adding of furniture is also included in a
category B fit out.

Turnkey Office Fit Out
A turnkey office fit out sometimes also referred to as a design and build fit out is
where the developer or tenant of the workspace makes sure that the current build is
ready to be occupied. This involves a full and integrated line of service by a
contractor to deliver a space from being bare to fully completed. A turnkey office fit
out project involves the contractors from the design conceptualization to
construction and finally turning over the space to the client ready for use.
Some clients prefer a turnkey office fit out for them to coordinate with a single point
person, making the process more concise, efficient, and smoother. This is especially
appealing for clients who may not be knowledgeable about the construction
process.
Need assistance in your first office fit out? Contact us today and let us discuss your
options. T1 is one of the leading project services providers in the Philippines. It

specializes in office, hospitality, and commercial projects that deliver nothing but
excellent results.
Reach out to Lana Kier at lana.kier@kmcmaggroup.com or call us at (+63) 2-7971-
0238.

This article was published on: January 27th, 2021

Tags: fit out, improvement, new year, new year new office, office upgrade, renovation, workplace, workplace upgrade

The new year opens a new opportunity for businesses and companies to upgrade their office and work spaces. After recognizing the importance of workplace design, more companies and individuals are paying greater attention to how it impacts the performance, motivation, and morale of its employees.

Still thinking about doing an office upgrade this 2021? Here are some reasons on why you should do it now:

More efficient workplace

Many changes have happened during the pandemic, especially for businesses and companies across the globe. Some have unfortunately reduced workforce, while others need lesser office space after allowing remote work arrangements. In 2021, upgrade your office by making your space more efficient and beneficial for your employees by changing and its layout and maximizing its use for everyone.

Maximize productivity

Improving your office design will also mean maximizing the productivity of your workforce. Studies show that a new workplace design can significantly increase productivity levels, as your employees will feel happier in a more positive environment. It can also be a nice incentive for your employees as they start the new year.

Shifting to Sustainability

Sustainability became one of the trends in 2020 as more businesses learn how it can help in reducing annual energy costs and promote efficiency in the workplace. Experts also say that this trend will most likely continue as many prioritize their health, well-being, and the environment. Moreover, a green and sustainable workplace lead to happier and more productive employees as research show improved morale and mood inside the office.

Upgrading your office towards sustainability can be as simple as improving lighting, utilizing better air filters for improved indoor air quality, and allowing more natural light to enter the workspace.

Promote health and well–beingAfter the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way people live, many have become more aware and conscious of their important health and well-being, especially in the work setting. Improving your office can also benefit the physical and mental health of your employees, leading to other benefits for your business.

Planning to upgrade your office this year? Let us discuss your options. Contact Lana Kier at lana.kier@kmcmaggroup.com or call us at (+63) 2-7971-0238.

This article was published on: December 2nd, 2020

Tags: employees, management, new normal, office manager, people, post lockdown, post pandemic, project management, staff, T1, team, transactions, welfare, wellbeing

For years, Jen’s work routine has revolved around putting everything in place for T1 Project Management. Handling the day-to-day operations of a dynamic company like T1 is as exciting as it is challenging. Coming from a different walk of life, she admits that doing something you are not familiar with can be scary at first, but with the right people, motivation, and training, you’ll get there.

“It was not smooth at first,” Jen shared. “But T1 has become a home and learning institution for me. They train you how to think. They challenge you to be better. They provide a role model for you,” she added.

Being one of the pioneer employees when T1 started in 2016, Jen describes her relationship with the company as mutually beneficial – she watched the company grow and the company molded the person she is today in return. Being the “fixer” and the “go-to” person of everyone in the team made Jen realize how essential her role is in the company. However, she admits at times, the pressure can get to her.

“I had doubtsabout coming to the construction sector, as I came from a different industry, and I had heard construction can be fast paced and high pressure, but as I strived to learn and familiarized myself with how things work, I found my place within the company.”

For Jen, getting her work done is not only about completing operational tasks or overseeing processes, it is building a connection with each of her team members to gain their trust and confidence. “I have gotten to know each individual that comprises the team and learned how they would help in making a project successful. I have learned to adapt to all sorts of people. I try my very best to connect with each of them, thankfully, the management is supportive enough to provide us a good working atmosphere by having our team lunches, seminars, team building, and virtual parties.”

Office Manager and Home Maker

More than just a company, T1 serves as family for Jen. “We created a strong bond which was paramount for me. Through the years the management has made me feel that I am a trusted to represent the company and make decisions, and I am very much thankful for that.” To her, the whole team and the management is a whole support system that will always have her back.

Moreover, the company is Jen’s home – a happy place where she works, laughs, and learns. “It’s somewhere where you are valued, respected, and cared for. Most importantly, I believe that home means a secure, cheerful place where you are respected and loved.”

“I help fix almost all of the issues in the office from simple attendance glitch to basically project closing. I can say that I’m the go-to person of everyone who needs advice or directions on their current professional and sometimes personal matters.” She compares her role as the office manager and as a home maker and realize it’s essentially the same. “As a mom of 2 boys with different personalities and preferences, you can only imagine how I am able to handle dealing with lots of different persons in one go. It’s initially challenging but eventually satisfying seeing them overcome their problems.”

What makes her stay

It’s the little things that matter to Jen, and not surprisingly, with the company that has been her home for the past years. “They value the smallest view or opinion you contribute to the team. It breaks down the wall that makes people hesitate to share what they know because of fear of being judged,” she shared. What makes it more rewarding are the benefits and perks T1 offers its people – from wellness programs to activities that foster collaboration and team bond. “They will let you see that you must have a work-life balance by providing activities that would let us have fun and enjoy work at the same time. Who would not stay for that?

This article was published on: November 4th, 2020

Tags: employees, general manager, management, new normal, people, post lockdown, post pandemic, project management, staff, T1, team, transactions, welfare, wellbeing

John’s day typically starts with his teammates in mind. As the General Manager of T1, his role within the team is more crucial than ever as the world adapts to the far-reaching effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the main overseer of the tasks, projects, deliverables, and the overall day-to-day operations of the whole company, he admits that he makes it a point to manage each workday properly by touching base as much as he could.

“I’ve always made it a point to catch up with the team on the projects they are handling. Given the pandemic, my day typically starts with conference calls for each project, which goes throughout the day. In between, I go through my emails, check our financials, HR matters, and other project deliverables,” he shared.

T1’s General Manager believes that how a company treats its people reflects on the company’s reputation, and directly translated to the quality of its output. Aiming to always be on top of everything, John shares he always goes back to one of the main principles of the company. He focuses on prioritizing what to do first by keeping its employees in mind. “The welfare of our staff comes first. As we are a manpower-based company, we must make sure that our people have all the tools they need to perform their tasks,” he added.

More than keeping all the projects in line and successfully delivered, John said that the challenge is making sure T1 employees feel happy with their work. “I have been with T1 from the very beginning, and for the past several years I have witnessed how far we have come,” he shared. “The most challenging part of being a General Manager is keeping everyone in the company happy and keeping employee morale high especially during the pandemic.”

John noted that the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequent lockdowns and quarantines are something nobody has foreseen and prepared for, but he is grateful to have a team that is very supportive and thinks of the company’s benefit as a whole. “There have been some sacrifices that needed to be taken, and I am just glad that the team has been supportive and understanding. Thanks to them we have kept everyone and have avoided retrenchment of our employees. , ”

Transitioning into the new normal has been quite the adjustment to everyone, including the construction industry.. “We hold virtual meetings, implement adaptive ways of conducting inspections, ensure stricter implementation of safety protocols, and extend programs of work, among others,” John said. “We also had to modify some of our systems to make sure we are practicing the protocols set by the government for the safety of the project team while ensuring our client’s expectations are well managed. ” For John, the pandemic has opened other opportunities in the industry, and sees a bright future ahead for the business “We still have a long journey ahead of us, but I see T1 being one of the top construction consultancy firms in the country with the help of our dedicated staff and the values we live by as a company.”

On the subject of managing projects, John adds, “The most exciting part of the job is when we get through a major hurdle on the project. This is mainly because the team has come together, and each made every effort to resolve the issue. This boosts the morale of everyone and inspires us to be better.”

As a General Manager, he always ensures that the team members of T1 get the support that they need, especially given the current work set up. “The staff is our top priority. They are the reason T1 Project Management is where it is today.”