First Balfour marked a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey with the launch of its Construction Management System (CMS) on 16 September 2025. In partnership with Autodesk Construction Cloud and CIM Technologies Inc., the CMS integrates planning, execution, monitoring, and collaboration into a single platform designed to streamline project delivery.
The system is the first in the Philippines to harness Autodesk Construction Cloud with AI-powered cost management and advanced analytics dashboards, enabling real-time insights and improved project management visibility. The launch of the CMS represents the company’s first major step in adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance project management and operational efficiency.
Leaders from First Balfour, Autodesk Construction Cloud, and CIM Technologies Inc. at the launch of the Construction Management System
First Balfour Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Anthony L. Fernandez (ALF) underscores the launch as the beginning of a bigger digital journey. ALF shares, “We are launching the first part of our digital transformation. There’s a lot of hope. There are a lot of big expectations. And I know we have a very strong team. We’ve carefully put this team together. We’ve got partners like CIM and Autodesk. So, I’m confident that about this time next year, we’ll be well on our way in our digital transformation. And maybe then, we can start thinking about what’s the next step.”
The overall CMS Project Champion and First Balfour Deputy Sector Head for Energy-Geothermal John F. Peralta (JFP) explains the value of the system, “CMS is a digital platform that brings all the aspects of our projects together in one place—from tender, planning, and scheduling, to cost tracking, document management, and collaboration.”
L-R: Autodesk Construction Account Executive Dennis Lim, First Balfour Managing Director for Construction Operations Rey Villar, CIM Technologies Inc. AVP for Corporate Sales Filipinas Martinez, and First Balfour Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Anthony Fernandez
Emphasizing how the system transforms day-to-day operations, JFP further highlights its benefits, “By having real-time access to accurate information, our team can now work more efficiently, reduce errors, and respond quickly to any issue or problem as they arise. They will not only improve coordination, but also significantly boost project productivity across all our projects. It’s a step forward, working smarter, making better decisions, and building a culture of accountability and excellence.”
Highlighting the impact of the collaboration, Autodesk Construction Account Executive Dennis Lim remarks, “Because of this collective effort, we’ll be seeing meaningful results: improved coordination across disciplines, data-driven cost control, higher quality and safety outcomes, and a future-ready foundation with open integrations.”
A ceremonial digital unlocking commemorates the CMS launch
Reflecting on the broader significance of the initiative, Dennis Lim emphasizes the human and strategic side of collaboration, “This journey has never been just about technology. It has always been about people, process, and partnership. And today, I am proud to say that this vision is no longer just a plan on paper—it will become part of your daily reality, shaping how projects will be designed, managed, and handed over for generations to come.”
At the conclusion of the program, First Balfour Managing Director for Construction Operations Rey G. Villar (RGV) exhorts the organization to take ownership of the initiative and ensure its success. “In the past, it took days or even weeks to gather project information. Now, with this platform, everyone can be online in just minutes. The responsibility is now ours—let’s make the CMS a success,” he concludes.
By consistently adapting to progress and harnessing the power of cutting-edge technologies, First Balfour envisions itself as an industry leader in digital transformation. The launch of the CMS stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to driving excellence, advancing innovation, and shaping the future of construction.
