First Balfour Adopts AI-Powered System to Streamline Construction Management

Oct 2025

First Balfour Inc., the construction and engineering arm of the Lopez Group, has launched an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered construction management system (CMS) to integrate project planning, execution, and monitoring into a single digital platform. The system, powered by Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC), makes First Balfour the first construction firm in the Philippines to utilize AI-driven cost management and analytics dashboards.

The platform enables real-time project coordination and data access, significantly reducing reporting time from days to minutes. Rey Villar, managing director for construction operations, noted that the innovation enhances efficiency, collaboration, and decision-making across all project stages.

The initiative forms part of Project UNLAD (Unleashing Next-Level Automation and Digitalization), First Balfour’s broader digital transformation strategy launched in 2024. CEO Anthony Fernandez described the CMS as a milestone in adopting cutting-edge technologies to improve operational excellence and project outcomes.

Developed in partnership with CIM Technologies Inc., the authorized Philippine distributor of Autodesk, the CMS connects all project components—from tendering and scheduling to cost tracking and document management—within one platform.

(Sources: Philippine Daily Inquirer; Insider PH)

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