Showing posts with label Innovation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Innovation. Show all posts

2025/02/28

SM strengthens pivot to solar PVs in support of DOE’s renewable energy goals

2/28/2025 01:15:00 AM



As the world continues to grapple with depleting resources, the need for renewable energy has never been more urgent. Malls, as significant energy consumers, have a unique opportunity to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future by adopting renewable energy solutions that can significantly reduce their environmental impact.

Understanding this, SM has been continuously ramping up its renewable energy initiatives by adopting solutions that lower its carbon footprint. One such solution is the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which provide clean and renewable energy by converting sunlight directly into electricity. This allows SM to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and contribute to a greener environment.

SM City Bataan and its 4,060-piece solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have a peak capacity of 2,376,000 kW.

 

Expanding solar power across SM malls

As of February 2025, SM is nearing full operations for the solar PV systems installed in 45 of its properties across the country, with more slated for retrofitting soon.

SM’s use of solar PV systems is just one of the many ways the company has been taking a more sustainable approach to energy use while supporting the country in achieving its sustainability goals. Its efforts continue to be recognized by reputable institutions both locally and internationally.  

Industry recognition for SM's sustainability efforts

For instance, SM’s flagship mall, SM Mall of Asia, was recognized at the 2024 Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards and Sustainable Energy Awards organized by the Department of Energy (DOE). It won the Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution for its solar PV system, which is capable of generating 2.7-megawatts (MW) of peak energy---enough to power 1,790 households for an entire year.

Meanwhile, SM City Butuan was recognized under the New and Existing Building category at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Energy Awards 2024 Best Practices Competition for Energy-Efficient Buildings. Endorsed by the DOE to represent the Philippines, the mall was honored for advancing energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) innovations in its design and operations.

Supporting the DOE's Renewable Energy Roadmap

Alongside its efforts to integrate renewable energy sources into its operations, SM is also committed to supporting the DOE in achieving its targets under the Renewable Energy Roadmap 2017-2040, particularly its goal to increase the country's renewable energy installed capacity to at least 20,000 MW by 2040. 


SM City Tanza is one of the 45 SM malls with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, numbering 2,286 units, which will produce 1,257.30 kW peak solar power.

Public-Private Partnerships for a sustainable future

SM collaborates with partner solar PV system providers under the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Distributed Energy Resources program. These service contracts define the conditions of the partnership, project timelines, and the assigned malls for each provider, aligning with SM's adoption of renewable energy.

"At SM, sustainability is a commitment. Our growing solar portfolio demonstrates our dedication to a greener future for the Philippines, in partnership with the DOE and our valued partners," shared SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group Engr. Liza Silerio. “Together, we’re not just generating cost savings – we’re shaping a more sustainable future by supporting long-term environmental goals of our partners while contributing to the Philippines’ green transition,” said Green Heat Corporation Director Glenn Tong. Green Heat is one of SM’s solar PV system providers. 


SM City Butuan with its solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.

A model for sustainable development

Beyond its environmental and economic benefits, SM’s implementation of solar PV systems serves as a progressive model for public-private partnerships (PPPs). By collaborating with the DOE, SM gains access to technical expertise and financial incentives while helping the country meet its sustainability goals. This approach promotes innovation, creates jobs, and sets a precedent for other commercial establishments to follow.

DOE's support for sustainable energy development

“The DOE has implemented sustainable energy development strategies and institutionalized national and local capabilities, and we are heartened by the strong support we have received from both the private and public sectors,” said DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara in her opening address at the Sustainable Energy Awards.

To learn more about SM’s various sustainability initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

SM Prime and DENR bolster Manila Bay cleanup efforts with high-tech trash boat

2/28/2025 12:16:00 AM


In a joint effort for Manila Bay, SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime), together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), was present for the handover of a state-of-the-art catamaran trash boat to complement the ongoing battle against water pollution. DENR received the boat last January 31, along with essential navigation and safety equipment as well as cleaning tools. The 30-foot catamaran will be operated by the DENR Metropolitan Environmental Office - South Zone and will contribute to the agency's capacity to combat water pollution and preserve the vital marine ecosystem. 


Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga (middle) receives the symbolic key to a catamaran donated by SM Prime, boosting Manila Bay cleanup efforts.


This donation strengthens the DENR's arsenal in its multifaceted approach to cleaning Manila Bay. The catamaran will enable more efficient removal of floating debris and waste, contributing to the broader effort to improve water quality and restore the bay's ecological health. The partnership with SM Prime exemplifies the power of public-private collaborations in tackling complex environmental challenges.

The 30-foot catamaran is designed to efficiently collect and carry up to 1 ton of waste.
 

"This catamaran represents our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and our belief in the power of collaboration to create a sustainable future for our communities," said SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio, emphasizing the shared vision of both organizations. SM Prime's contribution complements the DENR's ongoing initiatives, including the Paranaque Adopt-a-River project, and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving lasting environmental improvements. 


From left: Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Jonas Leones, DENR National Capital Region (NCR) Regional Executive Director Michael Drake Matias, DENR Assistant Secretary and Environmental Management Bureau Director Jacqueline Caancan, SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, and SM Prime Estate Management and Development Senior Assistant Vice President Orliber Paule at the catamaran handover ceremony.


The presence of DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga and other DENR officials emphasized the agency's commitment to leveraging partnerships to achieve its environmental goals. The catamaran will play a crucial role in the DENR's continued efforts to protect Manila Bay from pollution and preserve its valuable resources for future generations. This collaboration serves as a model for how public and private sectors can work together to address pressing environmental concerns and create a healthier environment.

2024/08/09

Efficient Trash Disposal Technology Business Hailed Global Tech Innovator at the KPMG in the Philippines Innovation Summit 2024

8/09/2024 12:23:00 AM



Rezbin clinched the grand prize in the Philippine search for the local KPMG Global Tech Innovator (GTI) during the recently concluded 4th KPMG in the Philippines Innovation Summit at the Fort in Taguig City. Rezbin’s Chief Executive Officer Mari Martirez impressed the judges with how he turned a common dilemma into a strategic and profit-generating enterprise. He is bound for Lisbon in November to represent the Philippines at the KPMG GTI finals.

On its second year, the KPMG Global Tech Innovator 2024 in the Philippines was chosen by an impressive panel of judges including last year’s GTI winner Mr. Nel Laygo, Peddlr co-founder and CEO, along with Ms. Sharon G. Dayoan, KPMG in the Philippines Chairman and CEO; Mr. Ben Alderson, Head of Strategy, Investments and Partnerships, QBO Innovation Hub; Professor Philip Teow Huat Kwa, Clinical Professor and Academic Program Director at the Asian Institute of Management; and Mr. Gil Genio, of the Analytics and AI Association of the Philippines.



 

Tech Horizons: Unleashing the Future of Innovation

The responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, building digital trust, unlocking the value of digital evolution, and tech sustainability were the hot topics of discussion at the KPMG PH annual Innovation Summit tagged “Tech Horizons: Unleashing the Future of Innovation”.

With over a thousand live and online participants, the summit in its 4th year has become KPMG in the Philippines’ annual way to gather emerging tech and business leaders to harness the transformative power of technologies as catalysts of progress and instill the importance of responsibility and sustainability to its use.

KPMG in the Philippines Chairman and CEO Sharon Dayoan welcomed guests and participants comprising tech and business leaders from different industries by reiterating the company’s primary focus on technology and its role in promoting growth for businesses and consequent national development. She revealed that the driving force behind the annual Innovation Summit’s success since its inception in 2021 is KPMG in the Philippines’ commitment to harnessing technology to streamline operations, drive efficiencies and enhance stakeholder experiences, consequently contributing to economic advancements.

Delivering the keynote address, Peter Maquera, CEO of Microsoft Philippines remarked that the integration of AI can significantly enhance the principles of transparency, accountability, and fairness, ultimately improving performance and shareholder value of companies.

Noel Bonoan, Vice Chairman and COO, Head of Advisory of KPMG in the Philippines, in his speech about their digital transformation debunked the perception that people become irrelevant with Artificial Intelligence, saying new jobs will replace the ones that are lost. Bonoan said that technology and innovation, if done right and collaboratively, can catalyze business growth and help with economic development and nation building. This is why KPMG in the Philippines has invested time and resources to ensure a robust and responsive Technology Consulting practice working shoulder to shoulder with their clients in their own digital transformation journeys.

AI Unleashed: Shaping Tomorrow Responsibly

Dr. David R. Hardoon, CEO of Aboitiz Data Innovation and Sr. Advisor for Data and AI of the Union Bank of the Philippines treated the summit participants with a fascinating discussion on the responsible use of AI. He emphasized that if AI is used responsibly, it can augment human capacity by enhancing decision-making processes through data-driven insights. This capability can lead to more informed and accurate decisions ultimately improving shareholder value.

However, he said these advantages will not benefit users if they are not managed responsibly. Companies need to adopt good governance practices to ensure that their AI initiatives are safe and have a positive impact on society. This includes addressing the potential job displacement effects of AI and implementing strategies to support affected employees, such as retraining programs. 





Digital Trust: Building Confidence in the Digital Age

Significant security measures are needed to ensure digital trust. It was the bottom line during the first panel discussion tagged “Digital Trust: Building Confidence in the Digital Age” moderated by Mr. Frits Enriquez, KPMG in the Philippines Technology Consulting – Cybersecurity Principal.

According to Dr. Erik Capistrano of the University of the Philippines Diliman, people need to feel confident that their personal information is safe from cyber threats such as hacking, data breaches, and identity theft, and from negligence such as lax practices. Organizations must implement strong encryption, secure authentication methods, and regular security audits to protect user data.


Panelist Dennis Omila, Chief Transformation Officer of Union Bank of the Philippines said being transparent about how data is protected can reassure users that their information is secure. Clear and transparent privacy policies are also essential because users are often wary of how their data is collected, stored and used. Companies should also inform users on the details of data collection as well as provide an opt-out choice to help users gain the confidence to go the digital path.

The discussion also tackled education and collaboration among stakeholders to further reinforce trust and promote digital adoption enabling society to fully benefit from digital enhancements. Panelist Carlos Tengkiat, Chief Information and Security Officer RCBC said that breaches in security happens because even if a company is careful of its privacy measures, it becomes vulnerable if it works with third party contractors that don’t have the same level of care to one’s data. That is why companies should ensure security measures and protocols and extend its standards to its business partners. It is also vital to address the challenges of educating the consumers to do their part in exercising these data protection protocols.


 

Sustainability Meets Tech: ESQ and AI in Corporate Governance

Speaker Rafael Dionisio, Co-founder, MAD Travel, Circle Hostel and Director of Lighthouse Legacy Foundation said in his speech that the intersection of sustainability and technology, specifically the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors with Artificial Intelligence (AI) in corporate governance, represents a significant development in business practices. This convergence not only addresses global challenges but also improves organizational resilience, stakeholder trust, and long-term value creation.

Transformation to Profit: Unlocking the Value of Digital Evolution

The pandemic era enabled a lot of enterprises to adapt to the need of the market, using ecommerce and multiple channels to expose their products. According to panelist Dennis Velasco, the CEO of Prosperna, digital transformation goes beyond mere automation of tasks, encompassing a holistic rethinking of business models, customer experiences, and internal processes, it also refers to the integration of digital technology in all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how companies operate and deliver value to customers.

Esel Madrid, SVP and Head of Data Science and AI Center of Excellence, Security Bank Corporation, said that leadership makes a huge difference in embracing change like digital transformation. She said that while many organization initiate digital transformation with the goal of modernization, the true value of data and ai is unlocked when business embeds the learnings and translates it into action and measurable outcomes.

Mark Gersava, Executive Cabinet Member, National Innovation Council said that strategic alignment is key in turning digital transformation into profit. By setting clear and measurable goals, organizations can track the impact of digital initiatives. He said the objective of the council is to make sure that the environment is ripe for innovation enabling the improvement of innovation governance in the country and the adaptation of long-term vision. It is pertinent to remove the obstacles in innovation and adapt the regulatory frameworks to support the infusion of digital transformation.

Today, GCash remains a market leader in making financial services accessible & affordable to the masses. A key step to this is establishing a financial identity, which we have made easier with simple full verification within the GCash app. Tek Olano, Chief Financial Officer of GCash, cited the company's own example of problem-solving expertise in a market that is not well-equipped with financial tech capabilities. Olano stated that if the process is easy, people will adopt it, especially if it offers the advantages of having a financial identity. Dick Chiang, CEO of Dragonpay, emphasized the importance of studying the market when creating platforms for convenience. By addressing the market’s purchase needs, businesses can drive digital transformation. However, measuring digital success goes beyond transaction numbers; it involves metrics related to customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, revenue growth, and cost reduction. 

 KPMG in the Philippines and the Exciting Race to Digital Transformation

With another Innovation Summit concluded and a new Global Tech Innovator in the Philippines proclaimed, the firm celebrates the agility and optimization that innovation brings to businesses not just in the Philippines but worldwide. Its annual pursuit of a GTI continues to celebrate innovators for being a guiding light in the race for digital transformation where everyone is going at their own individual pace and merits. KPMG in the Philippines is always committed to provide insight and guidance tailored to meet organizations in whatever stage of their digital transformation. It remains to be one of the most trusted professional services firms in the country, providing audit and assurance, tax, advisory and tech consulting services. ###



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