Showing posts with label SM Supermalls. Show all posts
Showing posts with label SM Supermalls. Show all posts

Friday, September 20, 2024

SM Prime joins global conversation on building sustainable cities for the future

11:22:00 PM



SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable urban development by hosting the 7th annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes (APRU-SCL) 2024 Conference and 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) at SMX Convention Center Aura. This prestigious event, organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), brought together over 300 experts to discuss innovative solutions for building greener and more resilient cities. Focused on the theme "Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation," the conference highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing urban challenges.


(L-R): Moderator Efraim Roxas, Environmental, Land Use and Urban Planning and Development Bureau (ELUPDB) Director Mylene Rivera, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, and Tohoku University Professor Jeongsoo Yu 

 

SM’s commitment to sustainability was evident through the participation of its top executives. SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan showcased SM Supermalls’ eco-friendly practices and community-focused programs.

“Our malls are more than just shopping centers; they are dynamic public spaces, woven into the daily lives of millions of Filipinos. Our comprehensive environmental sustainability programs are deeply inspired by the vision of our Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. Hans Sy, a tireless advocate for environmental sustainability and disaster resilience,” Mr. Tan said.


SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan highlights the malls’ sustainability initiatives.

 
He added, “At SM Supermalls, we leverage science and technology to develop innovative solutions that are seamlessly integrated into the design and operation of our malls. We remain committed to leveraging innovation and collaboration to build a greener, more resilient, and more sustainable future for the Philippines.”

SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, shared the company’s vision of creating sustainable integrated properties that foster lively communities.


(L-R): University of the Philippines Los Baños’ (UPLB) Dean Jennifer Marie Amparo, UPLB Chancellor Jose Camacho Jr., Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Chief Executive Thomas Schneider, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay, SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) Conference Director Edgar Reyes Jr., and APRU-Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Director Yekang Ko

 
National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr. highlighted SM’s role in disaster preparedness. He presented “From Risk to Resilience: The Work of the National Resilience Council in Risk Governance” where he introduced the Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP), NRC’s approaches and tools and how risk governance is supported by the sciences.

 
National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr. showcases SM Supermalls’ resilient infrastructure.


SM Prime’s commitment to sustainability was further emphasized during a breakout session on creating connections and partnerships, hosted by Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch. Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF)-Philippines, underscored the significance of collaboration: “Any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors.” SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon on integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future. 

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

Urban Development Sparks Job Growth

6:00:00 PM

Photo credit to Anamul Rezwan. Construction jobs are generated from new urban developments.



Cities globally, despite their differences in people and culture, are united in their quest for advancement through fresh urban initiatives. These endeavors don't just streamline life in bustling urban centers but also fuel local economies and societies through activities like job opportunities.

From modern transit systems to state-of-the-art commercial hubs and towering residential complexes, every new development demands a multitude of roles from inception to finish. This encompasses everything from real estate visionaries and urban planners to construction crews and material providers, necessitating tight teamwork for project fruition.

Hudson Yards: Direct and indirect employment opportunities

Photo credit to Following NYC. Featuring ‘Vessel’, a honeycomb-like structure and visitor attraction in the Hudson Yards Development in Manhattan, New York City.


The cycle of job creation doesn’t stop after completion. A new development also drives indirect employment opportunities generated from industries attracted or related to the development.

Such is the case for Hudson Yards, New York City’s 28-acre mixed-use development and considerably the United States’ biggest megadevelopment in history. It had created thousands of construction jobs that resulted in transforming Manhattan’s iconic skyline and becoming home to diverse shops, offices, cultural institutions, and hotels and residences. Ongoing operations and management of these facilities are expected to contribute to its large-scale economy, such as hosting over 55,752 workers daily and about $19 billion annually to the city’s GDP.

Dubai and Songdo IBD: Creating economic opportunities afresh

Meanwhile, cities like Dubai and Songdo International Business District (IBD) generate jobs by creating economic opportunities from the ground up. They used land reclamation as an urban development strategy to address land scarcity and high population density challenges.

Photo credit to Kadir AvÅŸar. A closer aerial view of the Palm Islands.

 
Dubai's ambitious projects, including the Palm Islands, the World Islands, and Burj Al Arab, have turned it into an ultramodern metropolis for commerce and tourism. In 2023, it drew over 30,000 new businesses, driving demand for talent in finance, legal, and digital technology sectors.

The Songdo IBD is an ongoing smart city built on reclaimed land in Incheon, South Korea. It’s designed to be an international business and residential hub with sustainable features. As of 2020, the 1,500-acre development hosts about 30,000 residents, 33,000 jobs, and 70% fewer emissions than any other development.

SM’s Integrated City Developments: Empowering local communities and residents

SM Prime contributed photo. An aerial view of SM Mall of Asia (MOA) featuring its iconic Globamaze and thriving network of retail, business, residential, and hotel developments.



The SM Group, a leading conglomerate in the Philippines, has an ecosystem of interests spanning retail, banking, property, and mall developments across the country, making it the largest employer with over 140,000 employees.

For every SM mall development by SM Prime Holdings, the integrated property developer of the Group, the local economy is invigorated because of the opportunities created by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that comprise about 68% of its mall tenants. For instance, SM City Bataan, SM Supermalls’ 83rd mall, employs about 96% of its mall administration staff who are residents called Bataeños, including two in leadership roles. It also proudly showcases local industries by partnering with homegrown businesses like family-owned brands and locally managed franchises.

Job security, stable income, and tax revenues contribute to the local workforce’s quality of life; and SM Prime ensures to manifest these waves of progress in its developments, especially in its future plans for smart cities in the Philippines to be spearheaded by its ongoing 360-hectare development in Pasay City.

New urban developments are catalysts for growth, innovation, and avenues for increased prosperity, shaping local economies through job creation and improved lives. The success of these city centers requires a network of opportunities – from its pre-construction supply chain to empowering businesses for individuals to thrive and contribute to the communities.

Empowering the Deaf: School Renovation Project Unlocks Opportunities

4:21:00 PM


Living with hearing impairment presents its own set of challenges, especially in a world where verbal communication reigns supreme. In the Philippines, these challenges are magnified, leading to limited opportunities for the deaf, especially in education and employment.

Secondary educational institutions that cater to the needs of the hearing-impaired are scarce in the Philippines. Those that do exist often face issues of affordability and inadequate facilities, making it even more difficult for deaf individuals to access the education they deserve.

A dedicated teacher from PSD provides a hands-on lecture inside their newly rehabilitated school building.

A personal advocacy 

Shery Funcion, the Principal of the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) in Pasay City, is no stranger to these challenges.    

Her dedication to the cause began with her college thesis, focusing on job opportunities for deaf learners. Since then, she has immersed herself in various organizations and volunteer activities, gaining firsthand insights into the limited opportunities available to deaf learners.    

She eventually became a SPED teacher, before taking on the role of principal in PSD.    

"The immersive experience really showed me how important these projects are for our students—kung gaano kahalaga ang pagbibigay ng mga pasilidad sa mga mag aaral lalo na sa mga bingi," she underscored the importance of providing facilities for students with hearing impairment.   

A facility that produces opportunities 

The collaborative project of the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI), and the Department of Education's Schools Division Office of Pasay City equips students with in-demand skills that will prepare them for employment upon graduation.



In the century-old PSD, their senior high school laboratory building serves as the training ground for students. Its classrooms and halls, no matter how old, have always played their role in honing and preparing deaf students to have solid career prospects after PSD.    

Amidst the competing priorities within the school and the broader Philippine educational system, the facility barely had enough funds for the rehabilitation and major repairs it needed. For years, students and teachers worked around issues ranging from dim lighting and leaking roofs to uneven floors. These not only presented structural concerns but also hindered the overall learning experience of students.    

"Our deaf learners need special accommodation to fulfill their special educational needs. They need to have a conducive learning environment so we can optimize the activities and learning programs," Funcion stressed.    

Funcion further shared that the 2023 collaborative project of the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI)—the social good arm of the SM Group, and the Department of Education's Schools Division Office of Pasay City could not have come at a better time.    

 "The rehabilitation of the Home Economics (HE) laboratories is crucial because students need to fulfill their performance tasks. These are vital components of our senior high school program to ensure that they acquire essential skills and competencies for employment post-graduation from PSD."    

Through the collaboration, PSD has been provided with the much-needed facilities in dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending, food and beverage preparation, ICT, and dance.   

For Funcion, their Henry Sy. Sr. building serves as a great beginning that will help pave equal opportunities and create a future where deaf students’ abilities will shine within and beyond the four walls of classrooms. 

Through the collaboration, PSD has been provided with the much-needed facilities in dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending, food & beverage preparation, ICT, and dance.




Sunday, April 7, 2024

From North To South, Timezone Brings the Fun to SM Southmall and SM North The Block

9:28:00 AM


From North to South, there's always a place for you to enjoy, relax, unwind, and have fun. For me, as a Gen X who have witnessed and enjoyed the fun in arcades, it has always been my sanctuary. A place where I'm happy at! 






For arcade goers in the North and the South, will definitely find their inner kid, as Timezone Philippines continues its legacy of fun and excitement with the opening of its latest venues at SM Southmall in Las Piñas and at The Block in SM North EDSA, Quezon City. For nearly three decades since 1998, Filipinos have associated Timezone with fun activities, exciting rides, and innovative entertainment experiences. This still rings true for many people who have grown up playing at Timezone and have enjoyed great times with family and friends in its numerous venues.










Indeed, the fun never stops as Timezone Philippines opened two more venues, providing denizens of the southern suburbs and residents of the northern urban scene a place to play, party, and relax to their hearts' content.






Got the opportunity to visit Timezone in SM Southmall and experience what they offer during their grand opening.  This is Timezone Philippines’ sixth venue with SM Supermalls. Timezone in SM Southmall, is in a prime position on the third floor of the mall, within close proximity to the cinemas and the Cyberzone for digital gadgets. At Timezone SM Southmall, guests can indulge in a 1,195 square meter playground filled with over 100 games spanning various genres. From the thrilling racing attraction Asphalt 9DX to VR Sailor Quest, there’s something for everyone. As for me, I love the games where I collect tickets for future prizes that I can redeem. Additionally, there is Social Bowling, Slam ‘N’ Jam Ultra, and the iconic Spinzone bumper car attraction, offering a diverse range of entertainment options. The venue also has a spacious party room for hosting gatherings of up to 50 participants. Don’t forget to visit the prize shop, where guests can trade their tickets in for different toys and other fun items! On March 22 until April 5, guests can purchase P500 and receive P1000 Powerload by using the code SOUTHM exclusively on the Timezone Fun App.

Meanwhile, guests on the northern end of the metropolis have a new entertainment option with the opening of Timezone’s seventh SM Supermalls venue - Timezone SM North EDSA The Block, which welcomed guests through its doors in December of last year.

 

Spanning approximately 900 square meters, Timezone SM North EDSA features popular games and unique attractions like Panther Revolution Photobooth system and NBA Hoops.




With venues across the metro, including SM Aura, SM Mall of Asia, and SM Megamall, as well as a provincial location at SM Rosales in Pangasinan, Timezone continues to be the go-to destination for fun and games. Stay tuned for more exciting developments as the fun never stops with Timezone!

Sunday, November 5, 2023

CHILD Haus celebrates 21 years, Tears from Heaven

11:28:00 AM


The SM Mall of Asia Music Hall hosted the 21st-anniversary party of CHILD Haus, a special place created by 'Mader' Ricky Reyes to give hope to kids with cancer. Over the years, the Sy family has been a big supporter of this place. In the beginning, it was Henry 'Tatang' Sy, Sr., and in recent years, Hans Sy, the Chairman of the Executive Committee at SM Prime Holdings Inc., has carried on the tradition started by his father.


CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes and SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy (center) celebrate the institution's 21st anniversary with the CHILD Haus beneficiaries.

 
At the forefront of the event were Mr. Sy and 'Mader' Ricky, and they invited several people and businesses who have supported CHILD Haus over the years. Many kids who have found a home at CHILD Haus were also there. The media covered the event, acknowledging the significant impact places like CHILD Haus have on children and their parents, often being their much-needed support.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes

 
SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy

During the event, they showcased three stories from CHILD Haus, featuring Aya, Laura, and Jessa in video clips. These videos were all about spreading hope and showing the life-saving efforts of the organization. Even the most experienced photographers in the press couldn't hold back tears, and it was truly amazing to see their emotional reactions. This shows just how deeply these stories touched everyone in the audience.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes, SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, and three inspiring CHILD Haus children, Aya, Laura, and Jessa.


After ‘Mader’ Ricky's heartwarming welcome, Mr. Sy himself took the stage to present plaques of appreciation to the many friends of CHILD Haus whose generous donations have made the organization's life-saving work possible.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes and SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy award plaques of appreciation to the generous friends of CHILD Haus whose contributions have enabled the organization's life-saving mission.

Those suffering from cancer and ‘adopted’ are provided food and shelter. There are presently two CHILD Haus locations - one in Manila, near the Philippine General Hospital, and one in Quezon City. Until the children are declared cancer-free and/or have completed their treatments and medical procedures, one child and one parent are allowed to live at CHILD Haus. If it’s an infant, both parents can stay.

A longtime supporter and regular visitor to CHILD Haus, Karylle, led the children in a rousing song composed by Karylle’s husband, Yael Yuzon. Then ‘Mader’ Ricky’s daughter sang a rendition of Florante’s ‘Handog’ that had been reworded to fit the sentiments of the children at CHILD Haus. These were two songs that the children had learnt and practiced as a “thank you” to the many guests who have helped make the ‘haus’ a reality.

Singer Karylle leads the CHILD Haus children in an uplifting song.

 

In the end, both ‘Mader’ Ricky and Mr. Sy acknowledged the significance of this event, which commemorates 21 years of compassion, fortitude, and the spirit of giving and sharing.

To know more about inspiring stories and events at SM, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.

SM Supermalls' Guard Gilren Bajado Recognized for Exemplary Action

11:06:00 AM


Gilren Bajado, lady security guard of RJC Security Solutions, was recognized as the Outstanding Security Guard of the Year at the 43rd Founding Anniversary of the Civil Security Group at Camp Crame. The recognition ceremony was presided over by PNP Chief PGen Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. SM Supermalls Customer Relations Services Senior Assistant Vice President Mr. Almus J. Alabe and Regional CRS Manager Harold James E. Herrera were also in attendance to witness the awarding ceremony.



LG Bajado's outstanding accomplishment stems from her remarkable act of honesty and integrity on August 3, 2023, at SM Cinema, SM City Marikina. During her clearing duties, she discovered a lost black pouch containing 64,800 pesos, along with ATM cards and assorted ID cards belonging to Mr. Starsky D. Paunan, a 44-year-old staff member of Palarong Pambansa.

L-R: SM City Marikina Customer Relations Services Manager Mr. Edward S. Masangcay, Regional CRS Manager Mr. Harold E. Herrera, Lady Guard Gilren Bajado of RJC Security, PNP Chief Bejamin Acorda Jr., SM Supermalls Senior Asst VP for CRS Mr. Almus J. Alabe, RJC HR Manager Mr. Wilmark Reyes

 

Without hesitation, she reported this to the CRS office, ensuring the safe return of the lost valuables to their rightful owner. Her integrity, honesty, and dedication have earned her this prestigious recognition and admiration from her peers and superiors.

 


SM Supermalls and RJC Security Solutions take immense pride in her achievement, as it reflects the company's core values of professionalism, honesty, and integrity. Her commitment to her duties, her sense of responsibility, and her exemplary character have brought honor not only to herself but also to RJC Security Solutions as a leading provider of comprehensive security services.

 


The recognition of LG Gilren Bajado as the Outstanding Security Guard of the Year strengthens SM Supermalls’ commitment to maintaining the highest standards of excellence. The company consistently strives to provide security solutions while ensuring that its employees embody the highest ethical standards.


SM Supermalls extends its warmest congratulations to LG Gilren Bajado for her outstanding achievement and for being a shining example of integrity and professionalism. Her actions serve as an inspiration to all and remind us of the impact that a single individual can have on building a safer and more trustworthy society.

Saturday, September 30, 2023

Driving Change for Water Sustainability at SM Supermalls

12:17:00 PM

 

The far-reaching consequences of the global water shortage are now felt worldwide. As per the World Wildlife Fund, approximately 1.1 billion individuals across the planet lack access to clean water, while 2.7 billion people experience water scarcity for at least a month each year. What's even more concerning is that by 2025, it is predicted that two-thirds of the world's population may encounter water shortages, which will also harm ecosystems.

As the gravity of these issues becomes increasingly apparent, several countries have taken significant steps to forge a more sustainable future for the Earth. Noteworthy examples include Singapore's water management plan and The Netherlands' intricate conservation practices.

Singapore’s Desalination Plant

        Source: https://www.pub.gov.sg/watersupply/fournationaltaps/desalinatedwater 


The Delta Works in The Netherlands was built by Rijkswaterstaat to protect the country against flooding from the North Sea.

Source: https://www.water-technology.net/projects/delta-works-flood-netherlands/  



Inspiration for the Philippines

In the Philippines, a multifaceted approach has also been embraced by the public and private sectors in safeguarding and managing water resources. SM Supermalls are at the forefront of the conservation and management of water resources in its mall facilities. Its endeavors form the foundation of a more sustainable and water-secure future that the company has long been advocating.

SM's Vision: Greening the Future

SM has been recycling water since the 1990s, treating an average of 1 billion gallons of water annually in recent years, equvalent to 1,600 Olympic-sized swimming pools. In line with the SM Green Movement, SM has been continuously working towards responsible consumption and water conservation in its properties.

To illustrate, the SM Supermalls’ comfort rooms have smart fixtures to manage water flow. There are also signages in the mall that advocate wise water use. Wastewater is channeled to the malls’ sewage treatment plants that recycle an estimated total of 4 million cubic meters of water, lessening their dependence on freshwater sources for non-potable uses. SM did this even before the measure was required by way of the Clean Water Act in 2004.



SM Mall of Asia has been involved in various sustainability and environmental initiatives, including water recycling among others.




SM Supermalls utilizes recycled wastewater from the mall for irrigating its gardens.

 



SM Malls have “Save Water” signages that typically aim to create awareness about water conservation and inspire people to take simple actions to reduce their water consumption

Recently, SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio. This facility can turn collected rainwater into potable water for mall tenant use such as washing and cooking as well as dishwashing and handwashing, allowing the mall to further lessen its dependence on the freshwater supply of the Baguio community.



SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio.


 
The Rainwater Treatment Facility at SM City Baguio Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong (right) samples the potable water from the SM Baguio rainwater treatment facility with SM SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin (left) and SM VP for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza Silerio (center).

SM's dedication aligns with the world’s environmental sustainability and climate action goals. Rainwater catchment basins in flood-prone areas and the rainwater filtration in SM Baguio further exemplify this commitment. These significant efforts underscore the ongoing need for sustainable practices and policies.

A Brighter Future Ahead

The journey towards sustainable water management is ongoing. SM Supermalls, through its initiatives, paves the way for a greener, more secure future.

Learn more at SM Cares or follow SM Supermalls on social media.


 
The Rainwater Treatment Facility at SM City Baguio, Baguio Mayor Benjamin Mangalong (right) samples the potable water from the SM Baguio rainwater treatment facility with SM SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin (left) and SM VP for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza Silerio (center).



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