Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Century Tuna Superbods 2024, Inspiring Fitness Journeys Unveiled

6:59:00 PM


The Century Tuna Superbods campaign has taken the fitness world by storm, bringing together individuals from all walks of life who are on a journey towards the healthiest and fittest versions of themselves. This year's Century Tuna Superbods Final Callback event announced and unveiled the Top 18 male and female finalists, Century Tuna continues to inspire Filipinos to embrace a lifestyle centered on wellness and self-improvement.

Held in one of the busiest place in BGC, the Market! Market! in Taguig City, the final callback event was a culmination of months of anticipation and hard work. From hundreds of hopefuls, a select group emerged, each with a compelling story to share about their pursuit of fitness and health. These finalists, hailing from various cities across the Philippines, range in age from 20 to 47 years old, showcasing the diverse and inclusive nature of the Century Tuna Superbods community.


 

What sets these finalists apart is not just their physical transformation, but the underlying motivations that drive them. Many cite personal struggles such as being bullied, dealing with health issues, or battling insecurities. Through their participation in the Superbods competition, they aim to not only overcome these challenges but also inspire others facing similar obstacles.

The Top 18 male finalists are like Nikko Nackaerts, Tony de Oteyza, and Jerico Ejercito, while the female finalists feature names such as Monique de los Santos, Mariah Nicole Valdez, and Justine Felizarta. Each finalist brings a unique blend of charisma, determination, and a genuine passion for fitness to the table.

The journey towards becoming a Century Tuna Superbod isn't just about physical appearance; it's about embodying a holistic approach to wellness. This year's theme, "Best You Ever," emphasizes self-love and personal growth, encouraging participants to embrace their individuality and strive for excellence in every aspect of their lives.


 

During the final callback event, the finalists had the opportunity to showcase their physiques, stage presence, and most importantly, their ability to articulate their fitness advocacies. Through a question-and-answer portion, they shared their stories of transformation, highlighting the importance of education, inspiration, and perseverance in achieving their goals.

The esteemed panel of judges, including industry experts and past Superbods winners, carefully evaluated each finalist, recognizing not only their physical achievements but also their commitment to promoting a culture of health and wellness in the Philippines.

As the competition gears up for its final night in July, all eyes are on these extraordinary individuals who represent the epitome of what it means to be a Century Tuna Superbod. Their stories serve as a reminder that true beauty and strength come from within, and that with dedication and determination, anyone can become the best version of themselves.

So, as we await the crowning of this year's #CenturyTunaSuperbodsBestYouEver winners, let us continue to be inspired by the incredible journeys of these finalists and strive towards our own personal bests. For more updates and information, visit the Century Tuna website or follow Century Tuna on social media.

Monday, May 6, 2024

Unveiling the excitement with Timezone's largest venue at U.P. Town Center

11:37:00 PM


I vividly recall the days when U.P. Town Center was still finding its shape, and Timezone was just in a small corner where kids and teens gather after school for a dose of fun. For someone who once a student, I understand the exhaustion that comes with school hours, and having a place like Timezone to unwind was a blessing.


 

Fast forward to April 26, 2024, Timezone unveiled its newest and largest venue at U.P. Town Center in Diliman, promising an enhanced entertainment experience for visitors of all ages. Spanning a spacious 1,535-square-meter area, this upgraded facility replaces its former location, boasting more games, larger spaces, and unique attractions.




The grand opening showcased a line up of new and innovative games and attractions, including the highly anticipated Minecraft Dungeon Arcade and state-of-the-art virtual reality experiences like Sailor Quest VR and HALO Fireteam Raven. Racing enthusiasts were thrilled with the addition of Asphalt 9DX Motion, while basketball lovers could indulge in the All-Star Basketball machine and NBA Hoops games.











Beyond arcade games, Timezone U.P. Town Center offers a range of activities, including bowling, bumper cars, billiards, and music zones. The Prize Shop adds an extra layer of excitement, allowing guests to redeem unique prizes with their game points. Additionally, the venue features two party rooms, perfect for hosting birthday parties and special events.



 
Timezone's legacy of innovation and quality spans over two decades, with the brand becoming a staple in family entertainment across the Philippines. The new U.P. Town Center location continues this tradition, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors.





 
General Manager Ydonna Alvendia highlights Timezone's role in enhancing the mall experience, providing an engaging alternative to shopping and dining. Regular guests eagerly anticipate the grand opening promotions, including special Powerload packages and exclusive prizes.




 

During the event, attendees were treated to an on-the-spot cheering squad competition, adding to the festive atmosphere. Present at that time were celebreties from Viva and GMA Sparkle. Placed under the red team, the group shared the stage with Ms. Andrea Del Rosario of Viva. This brought back nostalgic memories, particularly of my cheering squad days.



 

The sheer size of the venue ensures that there's always a game to play, regardless of the crowd. Personally, I enjoy basketball, billiards, ticket-dispensing games, and the excitement of clawing stuffed toys.

 

Timezone U.P. Town Center offers an unmatched entertainment experience, catering to families and friends seeking quality leisure activities. Whether it's a casual outing or a special celebration, Timezone promises fun and excitement for all. Join us at the grand opening and embark on a journey into a world of endless fun and entertainment.

Sunday, May 5, 2024

ML Express Unlock Opportunities, start your journey today!

9:37:00 AM



In the heart of every Filipino community lies a network of individuals committed to fostering financial inclusion and accessibility. ML Express, an extension of the trusted M Lhuillier brand, embodies this ethos, offering a seamless platform for money transfer services across the Philippines. As someone keen on making a tangible difference in your locality while delving into the world of entrepreneurship, venturing into the ML Express business could be your next step towards empowering your community and yourself.

ML Express prides itself on its expansive network, comprising not only over 3,000 M Lhuillier branches but also accredited ML Express Business Partners strategically located nationwide. These partners serve as beacons of financial assistance, particularly in remote areas where access to traditional banking services may be limited. With ML Express, sending and receiving money becomes a hassle-free experience, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in the journey towards financial security.

Becoming an ML Express Business Partner is not just about entrepreneurship; it's about joining a movement towards greater financial inclusivity. With the ML Kwarta Padala system at your fingertips, all you need is a tablet and an ML Wallet to kickstart your journey. Gone are the days of long commutes to the nearest bank branch – as an ML Express Business Partner, you bring essential financial services right to your community's doorstep.


 
The allure of entrepreneurship often comes with daunting financial barriers, but ML Express seeks to change that narrative. The ML Express Package offers a comprehensive set of tools to jumpstart your venture, including an initial fund of P25,000 loaded into your ML Wallet, essential equipment like a tablet with a keyboard and mouse, a Wi-Fi printer, and robust marketing collateral. What's more, there are no franchising, royalty, or annual fees, making this opportunity even more accessible to aspiring entrepreneurs.

The process of becoming an accredited ML Express Business Partner is straightforward yet empowering. Begin by filling out the inquiry form on the ML Express website, providing essential details about your business aspirations. Once your inquiry is received, an ML Express Officer will guide you through the accreditation process, ensuring that you have all the necessary documents in place, from your company profile to valid identification cards.

Upon accreditation, it's time to make your investment – a testament to your commitment to fostering financial inclusion in your community. Remit the investment amount of P99,000 to M Lhuillier and collect your start-up package, complete with the essentials to kickstart your ML Express venture. With your ML Wallet loaded with P25,000 as a start-up operating fund, you're ready to embark on your journey as an ML Express Business Partner.

Dressing up your site with ML Express marketing items is the final touch, signaling to your community that you're open for business and ready to serve their financial needs. From here on, the possibilities are endless – whether you're assisting customers with send-out transactions or facilitating seamless money transfers, every interaction is an opportunity to make a positive impact in your community.

As you contemplate embarking on this entrepreneurial journey, it's natural to harbor questions and uncertainties. Rest assured, ML Express is more than just a business opportunity – it's a supportive community committed to your success. With dedicated support channels for Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, help is always just a call or email away. Whether you're seeking guidance on technical matters or looking for marketing support, the ML Express team is here to assist you every step of the way.


 

The decision to become an ML Express Business Partner transcends mere entrepreneurship; it's a testament to your commitment to empowering your community and yourself. With ML Express, financial inclusivity is not just a lofty ideal – it's a tangible reality within your grasp. So, why wait? Seize the opportunity to make a difference and embark on a journey of empowerment with ML Express today.

For more information on how to become an ML Express Business Partner, contact ML Express through the following channels:

Luzon
 
v Email: mlx.luzon@mlhuillier.com
Smart: 0947-999-9353
Globe: 0917-805-1765 / 0917-800-3056

Visayas and Mindanao

Email: mlx.vismin@mlhuillier.com
Smart: 0947-999-9352
Globe: 0917-811-6304
Empower your community. Join ML Express today.

Saturday, May 4, 2024

Celebrate Mom with Easy Filipino Flavors from Purefoods Ready-to-Eat!

9:19:00 PM


As we get ready for Mother's Day, it's time to show our moms some extra love. Instead of stressing over cooking, why not make her a delicious homemade meal without all the fuss? Try Purefoods Heat & Eat Viands for easy-to-make dishes like Bistek Tagalog and Chicken Meatballs. It's a simple way to make your mom feel cherished and special this Mother's Day.

Remember those moments when your mom poured her love into every homecooked meal she served? Now, it's your turn to give back that same love through her favorite dishes. Imagine the joy of serving up slow-cooked, flavorful meals that require just minutes to prepare. Whether you're a busy parent juggling work and family responsibilities or simply want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying moments with loved ones, these convenient viands offer a solution that doesn't compromise on taste or quality.

Preparing a delicious meal with Purefoods H&E Viands is as easy as 1, 2, 3. Simply heat the dish over the stove or pop it in the microwave for 8-10 minutes, and you're ready to enjoy a hearty and wholesome feast. Add your favorite veggies to complement the flavors and elevate the dish to new heights of culinary delight. What's more, they offer a diverse range of ulam options, making meal planning a breeze. Whether your mom prefers traditional Filipino favorites or craves something a bit more adventurous, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Bring a delightful and surprising twist to classic Filipino dishes by following these recipes from the HomeFoodie website and create a Sweet and Sour Meatball or an elevated Bistek Stroganoff.

SWEET & SOUR MEATBALLS Ingredients:

2 packs (250 g each) PUREFOODS
HEAT & EAT CHICKEN MEATBALLS
2 cups cooking oil
Sauce:
1 pc (50 g) red onion, quartered
1 can (227 g) pineapple chunks, drained
1/2 cup cane vinegar
1 cup sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
1/4 cup banana ketchup
2 tbsp cornstarch, dissolved in 1 cup water
1/2 tsp iodized fine salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Procedure:
Fry meatballs in a deep pan with hot oil for 2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels and set aside.

In a saucepan, add 2 tbsp used oil. Sauté onion, then add remaining ingredients. Stir continuously until mixture simmers and thickens. Adjust seasonings as needed.

Add cooked meatballs and simmer once.

Makes 4-5 servings
(Yield: 20-24 pc/4 pc per serving)

This Mother's Day, instead of spending hours in the kitchen, take the opportunity to savor quality time with your mom and family. With Purefoods Heat & Eat, you can focus on creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Available in leading supermarkets, groceries nationwide, and online through San Miguel Mart, Lazada, or Shopee, bringing a taste of home to your Mother's Day celebration has never been easier.

Celebrate the special women in your life with Purefoods Ready-to-Eat and make this Mother's Day one to remember. After all, when quality time is made easy, every moment becomes an opportunity to show your love and appreciation.

Emille Joson: Behind the Lens and the Label of Sex Symbolism

1:16:00 PM


There's a new sex symbol in town, and everyone can't stop googling her... The film industry has a new rising star, and her name is Emille Joson. From sweeping film awards to garnering international attention, Joson has captured the hearts and admiration of audiences worldwide. Her journey from acclaimed filmmaker to unexpected sex symbol has not only sparked curiosity but also raised questions about the intersection of talent, beauty, and public perception.

Joson's rise to prominence began with the streaming resurgence of her acclaimed campy horror short film "Adivino" during the #MeToo Movement. Critics and Hollywood celebrities alike praised her talent, catapulting her into the spotlight and attracting a flurry of attention on social media platforms.

While Joson's talent and credentials are undeniable, it's her charismatic sex appeal that has also garnered significant attention. From modeling invitations to inclusion on top sexiest lists, Joson has become a focal point of admiration for many. However, amidst the accolades and attention, Joson remains grounded, expressing gratitude for the recognition while emphasizing the importance of being valued for her contributions to the industry rather than her appearance alone.


 
In a recent interview, Joson shared her thoughts on being labeled as a sex symbol: "I'm very flattered, of course, but I prefer being seen through timeless stuff like things I contributed in the industry rather than how I look." Her humility and focus on her craft highlight her dedication to filmmaking and desire to leave a lasting impact on the industry.

Beyond her work in film, Joson is also known for her advocacy and involvement in her family's business, Alaga Producers Cooperative. Her commitment to social responsibility and charity work further exemplifies her multifaceted talents and character

Joson's journey as a filmmaker has not been without its challenges, but her resilience and passion have propelled her to success. From acclaimed projects like "Sakaling Hindi Makarating" to her award-winning screenplay for "Pagari: Mohammad Abdullah," Joson's body of work showcases her versatility and storytelling prowess.


 
As she continues to navigate her career, Joson remains focused on her passion for filmmaking and her desire to make a meaningful impact in the industry. Despite the label of sex symbol, Joson's true beauty lies in her dedication to her craft and her commitment to creating stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry, Emille Joson stands as a testament to the power of talent, determination, and authenticity. As she embarks on the next chapter of her career, one thing is certain: the world will be watching, googling, and eagerly awaiting her next cinematic masterpiece.

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

The Future of Farming

6:56:00 PM




While modern agricultural techniques boost yields for some, there remains a number of Filipino farmers who struggle to keep pace. These experienced hands find themselves falling behind in a market demanding higher production, clinging to familiar yet often inefficient methods passed down through generations.

One farmer from Pampanga, Jayson Garcia, sought to disrupt this prevailing narrative in his family. He knew that he had to chart a new course forward for his farm and innovate to remain competitive within the rapidly evolving landscape of modern agriculture.

Jayson and Juanito proudly showcase a selection of produce at the SM City Clark’s Weekend Market.

 

“Noon, mahirap ang magtanim,” he recalled their life before joining SM Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan. “Para bang tsambahan, basta pag itinanim mo ‘yan, hintayin mo na lang mamunga. Mas mahirap pa lalo kapag nagkaroon ng kalamidad,” he added. 

SM Foundation’s training program focused on high-value crop cultivation was the breakthrough Garcia needed to revitalize his farming techniques. These included selecting the best seeds and caring for them as well as strategic planting schedules.

Jayson attends the SM City Clark’s Weekend Market to observe best practices and gain insights into new agricultural techniques.

 



The livelihood program also gave way for him to discover alternative sales channels that enhanced his earning potential while extending fair prices to his customers. The knowledge and confidence he gained led him to expand his farm, and in effect, increased his monthly income to more than Php25,000.

Aside from directly selling his harvests, he is now planting a variety of vegetables–on his farm, including lemongrass, malunggay, and madre de cacao, which he sells online to small businesses that process the produce into other products.

Embracing new techniques

Sharing the same story of hope is another KSK farmer from Pampanga, Juanito Dela Cruz. Despite his age, he actively pursued and adopted modern farming techniques. Building on his current success, he shared the importance of adaptability for farmers, calling for others to try and explore new practices.

From a modest monthly income of Php10,000, Juanito experienced an upsurge in his earnings, notably through participation in the Weekend Market at SM City Clark, yielding around Php30,000 weekly. “Kailangan maging bukas tayo sa makabagong pamamaraan ng pagsasaka para makahabol tayo sa demands ng panahon ngayon—ito ang itinuo sa akin ng SM Foundation-KSK,” he said.



Juanito, alongside his wife, actively participates in the SM City Clark Weekend Market. They credit the market with contributing to their increased profitability.

 

The SM Group’s KSK program has changed the lives of roughly 30,000 Filipino farmers, including Jayson and Juanito. Through its initiatives, farmers who once lost hope have been able to embrace modern farming techniques, leading to adaptability in the face of the evolving agricultural landscape.

The SM Group, through SM Foundation, remains steadfast in its commitment to spreading social good. This dedication extends to SM’s forthcoming endeavors to be led by its future smart city property development – with focus on enhancing positive social impact in the communities where SM operates. ###

All within 15 minutes: Urban planning concept city to rise in Pasay

6:48:00 PM



For the modern urban dweller, 15 minutes is a lot of time.

A lot of productive things can be done – a high-intensity, interval training (HITT) workout or run a 1.5-kilometer route, clearing your emails, meditating, catching up on the news, or preparing a quick smoothie – all within 15 minutes.

But for the Metro Manila commuter, 15 minutes is barely enough to get from point A to point B. During rush hour, it is most likely that within this time, you still haven’t moved an inch.

Ever heard of the 15-minute city? It’s a modern urban planning concept that puts people and the planet first. The term was coined by Paris-based urbanist and Sorbonne University professor Carlos Moreno wherein he said that the ideal neighborhood or city is built in such a way where work, food, housing, education and cultural activities can be easily accessed within 15 minutes, whether by foot or by using a bike.


 

An artist’s render of a 15-minute city, where work, food, housing, education and cultural activities are easily within reach.

Pasay City, in its forward-looking 360-hectare smart city development, aims to create an innovative tropical 15-minute city for over 300,000 residents.
 
Situated at the edge of a densely-packed and overpopulated metropolis perpetually in a traffic gridlock, this city will provide respite to its residents and visitors with sustainable, inclusive, safe, and healthy living where all their needs can be accessed within reach.
 
Among its intended features, the project is envisioned to have low carbon and safe mobility networks with multimodal public transport services and enhanced infrastructure that prioritizes active mobility like walking and biking. There will be parking lots equipped with electric vehicle charging stations, dedicated bike lanes, easily accessible public transport hubs, and unimpeded pedestrian walkways.


 

An artist’s rendition of a soon-to-rise 15-minute city in Pasay

This assures lower transportation costs, less carbon emissions, and most importantly, healthier and happier people. No more long and tiring queues at the EDSA bus carousel or sitting hours on end in the middle of EDSA traffic.
 
The project has been thoughtfully planned and designed for many years, and finally it has received the green light by government to proceed. In fact, no less than Albay 2nd district Rep. Joey Salceda highlighted how the Pasay-led project is expected to earn billions in real estate assets for the government.
 
Revenues from the project will generate a massive multiplier effect on our gross domestic product (GDP) and an estimated 300,000 new jobs from 2027 to 2040. By 2035, it is projected to employ 4% of the National Capital Region’s (NCR) total work force.

The Pasay 360 Project will be a city that nurtures lives and livelihood, is expected to revitalize the economy, and hone the next generation of Filipino leaders. It can be a source of pride for Filipinos as we push towards the 22nd century.


Filipinos Face Concert Venue Challenges

6:38:00 PM


Countries with large and competitive concert venues are seeing economic boosts thanks to big-name international acts like Taylor Swift and Coldplay. These concerts draw huge crowds and spur spending, with fans traveling far and wide for the experience.

Take Southeast Asia, for example. When Taylor Swift brought her Eras Tour to Singapore's National Stadium, it wasn't just locals filling the seats. Fans from the Philippines and beyond made the journey, pumping money into the local economy. The same happened in Japan's Tokyo Dome and Australia's Accor Stadium when Coldplay took the stage.

These concerts aren't just about the music—they're about the money. They give a boost to industries like entertainment, hospitality, retail, and transportation. So it's no wonder countries are vying to attract big-name acts and build venues to host them.

1. Location is key

The Philippines doesn’t lack in big venues. In fact, it boasts of venues that can rival Singapore’s National Stadium and Japan’s Tokyo Dome. Accessibility to the location as well as public transportation and nearby commercial establishments are key.

2. Concert Experience



Photo credit to Stanley Quek. An empty Singapore National Stadium, viewed from the front stage.

Singapore’s pride, the National Stadium, has innovative features such as the world’s largest free-spanning dome, a retractable roof and comfort cooling technology for spectators’ convenience. Its innovation, strategic location, and efficiency bring positive and immersive experiences for enthusiasts and concert fans, making it a magnet for entertainment acts from all over the world. A similar concert venue and experience is something that Filipino concertgoers are hoping the country can replicate.

3. World-class concert amenities and facilities

Accessing the venue's amenities and facilities should offer a premium music experience for concert enthusiasts or convenience in a sporting event.


 

Architectural “Eyecon” SM Mall of Asia Arena prides itself on having exceptional world-class amenities unique in the Southeast Asia region. –Photo from SM MOA Arena official website


 

FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 held in SM Mall of Asia Arena – Photo from SM MOA Arena official website

Take for example the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena – a flexible indoor arena developed in 2012 by leading integrated property developer SM Prime – that has been a top-of-mind venue for all sorts of events and offers a unique concert experience. With a full house seating capacity of 20,000, it has been a haven for thrilling sports events, remarkable OPM shows, and unforgettable international superstar performances.

Meanwhile, the SMDC Festival Grounds in Parañaque City is likewise an enormous outdoor venue that can accommodate at least 50,000 people. Ed Sheeran’s Mathematics Tour and Rivermaya The Reunion were among the performers that have graced the stage recently.

4. Achieving Filipinos’ concert dreams

One of the most forward-looking plans of SM Prime is its 360-hectare smart city development which is envisioned to bring in a centerpiece to the country’s entertainment and sporting events – larger in capacity and a more enhanced venue infrastructure that would attract legendary icons in the entertainment scene and compete against Southeast Asia and the world’s best. It will feature an estimated 70,000-capacity stadium and concert arena connected to one of the island’s main destination paradises called Central Park. The sizable arena is envisioned to be the Philippines’ biggest concert venue, with world-class facilities and sustainable features, comparable to other big concert venues worldwide. Once that’s built, Filipinos won’t have to fly overseas because they can watch top-tier performances right from the comfort of their home country.


 

An artist’s render, visual sketch of the proposed concert venue at Pasay 360 project.


Without a doubt, Pinoys live and breathe entertainment shows. In fact, Filipinos are the 4th top concert spenders in Asia-Pacific according to digital payments company Visa, proof of how passionate we are about concerts. By investing in the development of modern, smart, and accessible concert venues, Filipino concert enthusiasts can continue to embrace and celebrate live performances with the convenience, comfort, and enjoyment they deserve. Beyond entertainment, well-curated, smart, and innovative concert facilities can further drive economic benefits to the Philippines’ national and local economies, including ancillary local spending in retail, tourism, and hospitality.

SM Prime's #SMWasteFreeFuture: Unified Waste Management

6:20:00 PM



SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), a prominent property developer in Southeast Asia, is launching a comprehensive waste management and segregation campaign to tackle the escalating global waste issues. The initiative, tagged #SMWasteFreeFuture, aims to rally all its property groups and stakeholders towards a sustainable solution.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) highlights a staggering statistic: humanity churns out over 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste every year, with a troubling 45 percent being poorly managed. If left unchecked, this figure could balloon to nearly 4 billion tons annually by 2050. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the United Nations General Assembly designated March 30 as the International Day of Zero Waste on December 14, 2022.

The subsequent year saw the inception of the inaugural International Day of Zero Waste by UNEP, designed to galvanize efforts in combating the global pollution crisis. This day serves as a platform to spur worldwide action and draw attention to the importance of striving for zero waste.

Strong foundations

SM Prime’s founding leader, Henry Sy, believed that “business growth and social development must go hand in hand.” The company follows this guiding principle and has formed a sustainability policy that commits to the following: Resource Conservation and Efficiency, Disaster Resilience, Climate Advocacy, Social Integration, and Transparent Reporting.

Anchored on these sustainability commitments are the SM Supermalls’ Environmental Programs on Waste Management. Through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, SM Supermalls has pioneered longstanding programs such as the Trash to Cash recycling market, and provided support to the annual International Coastal Clean Up, among other national events.


 
(Photo caption) The largest haul and biggest participation to-date: The 38th International Coastal Clean-up had 17,000 volunteers across 15 SM Malls in 12 locations nationwide. It is an annual community-driven partnership between SM Supermalls, SM Cares, the DENR, LGU’s and the volunteers from the SM community.


 

(Photo caption) Scaled to perfection: One of the first recycling markets the country, Trash-to-Cash’s valuable example that waste can have monetary benefits. The recycling market is held every first Friday and Saturday of the month in all SM Supermalls to encourage waste segregation and recycling among SM customers, tenants, and the community. The recycling market is open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

In the hotel and tourism sector, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has taken the lead in mitigating global food waste by implementing sustainable initiatives across its properties in the Philippines. Their key initiatives include the World Wide Fund for Nature’s Sustainable Diner Program, that aims to transform and help the food service sector minimize its impact on the environment thru resource efficiency, plastic refusal and food waste management and contribute to the world’s future food security.


 

(Photo caption) Closing the loop: SMHCC’s sustainability efforts are anchored on the 7Gs or Seven Green Goals, based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG). The overall thrust for sustainability is cascaded to the rest of properties, ensuring that it is embedded at every step of the hotel’s operations, ensured by property Sustainability Champions.

To support these programs, SM Prime also recently unveiled its waste-to-fuel partnership with GUUN Co. Ltd. (GUNN) to implement the Japanese technique of reducing landfill impact. The technology converts non-recyclable and hard-to-recycle packaging into alternative fuel.


 

(Photo caption) No time to waste: Sorting through the amount of trash at the GUUN Facility in Cebu. Unfit for recycling and reuse, the waste material recovered avoids the landfill and is then reconverted to fuel resource.

A Vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture

To mark the International Day of Zero Waste on March 30, 2024, SM Prime is releasing its vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture. “As a community, we strongly believe in our ability to contribute to solving today's waste issues,” said Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability champion.

SM Prime’s announcement of its vision of an #SMWasteFreeFuture demonstrates the company’s strong commitment and sustainability stewardship, by inviting its stakeholders to engage in activities that will help spread zero-waste awareness and work for a sustainable and environmentally responsible approach on waste management.

“We understand that this may seem like a daunting challenge to overcome However, by joining forces, we can create a world that our future generations truly deserve – if we have the courage to take on this journey together,” said Sy.

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.

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.



About Me

About me
Hi!, This is Marco a.k.a. Toto Blogger and Publisher. I created this blog to provide stories, personal experiences, entertainment, and insights on products I like. I'm here to share and inform you (readers) on things about music, movie, food, travel, and events.

You can also meet my wife on her blog www.mommysmaglife.com.


For project collaborations, product reviews, event invitations, or hotel and resort experience reviews, kindly email me at marcopolojdemo@yahoo.com.



Badges and Ranks

Food & Drink - Top Blogs Philippines Entertainment & Lifestyle - Top Blogs Philippines Music - Top Blogs Philippines
Blogmeter.Top BC_BLOGGERS

Gelo Malikha, EzineArticles.com Basic PLUS Author Marco Polo Demo is an Intellifluence Trusted Blogger

Recent

recentposts

Random

randomposts