Around 51 elevators and six escalators at RCBC Plaza, one of the landmark commercial complexes in the Makati Central Business District, is set to get a major upgrade through a modernization contract with Jardine Schindler Philippines.
The project, which began in March 2026, is among the largest modernization undertakings of the company in the Philippines. It aims to improve passenger mobility, energy efficiency, and building operations while minimizing disruptions to tenants and visitors.
A key component of the upgrade is the installation of the Schindler PORT Destination Control System, a technology designed to improve elevator traffic management by directing passengers to appropriate elevators based on their destinations.
The system integrates building access and elevator navigation through smartphones, access badges, and digital interfaces. It is designed to reduce waiting times, improve passenger flow, and optimize energy consumption through intelligent traffic management.
For building operators, the technology also provides real-time performance monitoring and maintenance management capabilities, supporting more efficient operations over the long term.
Jardine Schindler will also take over maintenance of the building’s elevators as part of the modernization program.
Rachel Thu, Managing Director of Jardine Schindler Philippines, said the partnership would support the modernization of RCBC Plaza, which serves as both a major corporate address and a cultural destination in Makati.
“We’re proud to be partnering with RCBC Plaza to help modernize its complex, which plays a unique role as a cultural hub within the Makati CBD,” Thu said.
The modernization presents operational challenges because RCBC Plaza is a Grade A office complex with high daily occupancy. Installation and replacement activities must therefore be carefully managed to maintain normal building operations.
To address these requirements, Jardine Schindler is introducing a specialized escalator installation solution designed for occupied buildings. The approach allows equipment to be transported and installed in smaller sections, helping overcome space limitations and reduce disruption during construction.
Yeow Seng Teo, Group Modernization Sales Director of Jardine Schindler Group, said the contract demonstrates the company’s capability to handle complex upgrades in high-traffic commercial properties.
“This project win reflects our strong capabilities in delivering large-scale modernization projects within complex, high-occupancy environments,” Teo noted.
The RCBC Plaza contract also highlights the growing importance of upgrading existing commercial buildings with smarter transportation systems rather than relying solely on new construction to improve building performance.
With the modernization underway, the project is expected to enhance the efficiency and reliability of vertical transportation at RCBC Plaza while supporting the long-term operational needs of one of Makati’s established business landmarks.