The demand for clean and safe drinking water continues to grow, as rapid urbanization and population increase put pressure on freshwater resources. According to UN-Water, efficient water management is essential to sustaining both society and the environment.

SM City Baguio’s rainwater treatment facility (RTF) utilizes a rigorous six-step treatment process with real-time monitoring to ensure processed water meets potability requirements, and its service to the community was recognized at the 2024 Asia Pacific Tambuli Awards.

 

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), a leading integrated property developer in Southeast Asia, has prioritized water conservation and management since the early 1990s—long before water stress and its link to climate change became widely recognized. 

Headquarters to some of the largest Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) brand names, the Three E-com Center at the Mall of Asia Complex efficiently operates its sewage treatment plant to collect, treat, and remove contaminants from wastewater, making it safe to discharge to the surrounding environment.

Through Water for Tomorrow, SM Prime’s water stewardship campaign, the company actively integrates climate resilience into its developments, ensuring responsible resource management while supporting the well-being of the communities it serves.

Sustainable water management

Water conservation measures and efficient management systems are embedded in SM Prime’s building operations. The company invests heavily in sustainable water management technologies to reduce freshwater use and the demand for municipal water supply. It has identified practical water usage and innovations to address the growing concern of water security.  

Pico Sands Hotel has reduced water consumption by advocating towel and linen reuse, inviting guests to join its sustainability journey and conserve water.

In 2023, SM Prime’s reported total water consumption amounted to 7.2 million cubic meters, with 61% of that consumed water being recycled.

On average, more than 1 billion gallons of recycled water is used for mall operations. SM Supermalls uses recycled water for cleaning and sanitation, caring for its plants and landscaping, and cooling its air conditioning towers. Efficient plumbing and innovative water-saving technologies with low-flow fixtures also regulate the mall’s water consumption.

These practices have been scaled throughout the group. The SM Offices’ E-Com Centers in the Mall of Asia Complex have sewage treatment plants that recycle greywater. Aside from rainwater harvesting systems that help maintain its urban gardens, SM Development Corporation (SMDC)’s Sea and Shore Residences donate its discharged treated water to the greening of the Estates in the MOA Complex.

As part of its water conservation program in Pico Sands Hotel, SM Hotels and Convention Corporation reduced its freshwater consumption by 36%, reaching 52% water reuse and 41% for Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club. Together with Hamilo Coast, SM Prime’s luxury and leisure estates in Nasugbu, Batangas, its water desalination plant has made significant impacts on water management and sustainable eco-tourism since 2010, ensuring that it services all developments that call Hamilo home.

Protecting water resources

SM Prime supports this year’s UN-Water World Water Day 2025 on March 22, which focuses on the theme “Glacier Preservation.”  

Hamilo Coast’s desalination plant provides sustainable water to its community, serving residences, hotels, staff housing, and offices since 2010.

Halfway around the globe, glaciers play a critical role in the global water cycle. Glacial ice is the largest reservoir of fresh water, holding about 69% of the world’s fresh water. With rapid glacial melting, altered rainfall patterns, droughts, and rising sea levels, the planet risks a water crisis that affects the most vulnerable.

Recognizing these challenges and the need for a reliable water supply, SM Prime continues to integrate water-efficient systems in its property developments. This helps create public awareness and encourages responsible water use among mallgoers, tenants, employees, and communities. In 2023, SM Supermalls’ SM City Baguio rainwater treatment facility (RTF) was launched to help reduce dependence on freshwater sources. It has treated 17,000 cubic meters of rainwater into potable water and continues to operate and serve its host community.  

SM Development Corporation (SMDC)’s Sea and Shore Residences donate their treated wastewater to green the landscape of the Estates in Mall of Asia Complex.

SM Prime’s Water for Tomorrow program plays a key role in SM Prime’s sustainability strategy, along with Net Zero by 2040 and a Waste-Free Future.

“As businesses face growing water challenges, we must take action to secure our Water for Tomorrow,” said Hans T. Sy, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman.

“Water stewardship is an investment in our future. We must move beyond conservation and prioritize resource protection, waste reduction and water security for future generations,” he added.

Celebrating the strength of 17,000+ thriving businesses

In a dynamic celebration of Filipino entrepreneurship, SM Supermalls proudly unveiled the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) Champions' Wall, a visual tribute to the resilience, dedication, and excellence of the country’s 17,000 MSMEs. Held at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA), the special event gathered distinguished guests to honor the 2024 Presidential Awardees for MSMEs, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the nation’s business landscape. 

In the photo: The 2024 Presidential Awardees for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Kawayan Collective, Hey Success PH, Ai-She Footwear Fashion, Nelly Coffee and Tablea, Malagos Chocolate, Tropical Palm Herb Manufacturing, and Jojie’s Bakeshop, with SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Jonjon San Agustin, Senior Assistant Vice President (SAVP) for Marketing – MSMEs Pats Dy, AVP for MSMEs Royston Cabunag, and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Division Chief Cynthia Dela Cruz

A symbol of innovation and perseverance

The MSME Champions' Wall stands as a symbol of innovation and perseverance, embodying the journey of Filipino entrepreneurs who continue to thrive despite challenges. Designed as a fusion of creativity and storytelling, the installation showcases the diverse industries and success stories that define the MSME sector.  

(L-R): Jam Puentespina from Malagos Chocolate (the Medium Enterprise Champion), Carmela Prado from Kawayan Collective (the Small Enterprise Champion), Teresa Santiano from Tropical Palm Herb Manufacturing, Arnold Labunog from Josie’s Bakeshop, Shelly Kane Coligado Ortiz from Ai-She Footwear, and Jeric Suazo from Nelly Coffee and Tablea

Honoring the 2024 Presidential Awardees

Gracing the occasion were key representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), SM Supermalls executives, and the private sector, along with the esteemed awardees. In his opening remarks, Jonjon San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls, emphasized the importance of providing platforms for MSMEs to grow, stating, “This wall is more than just an installation; it reflects the relentless spirit of Filipino entrepreneurs who drive economic growth and inspire innovation.” 

The Medium Enterprise Awardee, Malagos Chocolate, offers award-winning Philippine-grown cacao.

The highlight of the event was the formal recognition of the 2024 Presidential Awardees for MSMEs, individuals, and businesses that have demonstrated outstanding performance, innovation, and community impact. Each awardee shared their journey, underscoring the vital role that MSMEs play in job creation, industry growth, and national development. 

The small enterprise finalist, Aishe Fashion, crafts locally sourced espadrilles, empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWD) artisans.

SM Supermalls' commitment to MSME growth

SM Supermalls remains committed to championing local businesses through initiatives such as the SM for MSMEs Program, which provides entrepreneurs with greater market opportunities, business support, and nationwide visibility.

With this initiative, SM Supermalls continues to strengthen its support for MSMEs, reinforcing its commitment to being a true partner in their journey toward success. As the MSME Champions' Wall stands tall at SM MOA, it will serve as an enduring reminder of the resilience, passion, and excellence of Filipino entrepreneurs.

For MSMEs who wish to join the program, visit msme.smsupermalls.com.