SCPW, UAPSA join hands with SM Prime in promoting wetland conservation

"It is an honor and privilege on the part of SM to partner with the SCPW and UAPSA in realizing its common goal of protecting ecosystems, particularly wetlands, by inspiring the youth to engage and take action on the socio-civic and economic issues in their communities by finding workable solutions towards building a sustainable future." ~Rida Reyes Castillo, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications

SCPW president Arch. Celestino Ulep leads a discussion on nature-based architecture during the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium. Photo from SCPW

As the world celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity 2023, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) joined the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc. (SCPW) hosted the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium on May 29th at the MAAX Building in the Mall of Asia Complex.

Bannering the theme  "Build Back Biodiversity: Wetland Centers and Nature-Based Architecture," the hybrid symposium featured presentations centered on fostering knowledge and awareness about wetland conservation and innovative design approaches.

SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo

The symposium organized by SCPW (presumably referring to an organization or institution) appears to have been a significant event focused on wetland conservation, nature-based architecture, and sustainable design. The event was opened by SCPW president Ar. Celestino Ulep, who expressed optimism about the potential of collaboration and nature-based architecture to promote thriving wetlands and biodiversity.

Prominent figures in the field, including Chris Rostron from Wetland Link International and Alex Hughes from Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust in London, were present as guest speakers. They initiated discussions on the crucial role of Wetland Centers in wetland conservation efforts, emphasizing their functions in communication, capacity building, education, participation, and awareness (CEPA).

Architect Ulep, in his presentation, introduced the concept of nature-based architecture, highlighting the significance of sustainability and design harmony with the natural environment. This likely involves creating structures that blend seamlessly with the surroundings while prioritizing ecological balance.

Architect Aaron Lecciones, SCPW Special Projects Officer, provided a visual presentation focused on the experiences of the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP) Design Team. This presentation likely detailed the challenges and successes encountered during the design process of the wetland park, aiming to inspire aspiring designers and architects to undertake similar environmentally conscious projects.

Distinguished partners, including Rida Reyes Castillo from SM Prime, Dr. Arvin Diesmos from the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Laudemir Salac from DENR-Region 3, and Gleo Raymundo from UAPSA, participated in the event to demonstrate their support for the initiative. Their presence likely indicates a collaborative effort between governmental agencies, private companies, and academic institutions to promote wetland conservation and nature-based architecture.

Overall, the symposium appears to have fostered a platform for exchanging insights, experiences, and ideas related to wetland conservation, nature-based architecture, and sustainable design, with a focus on collaboration and ecological harmony.

SCPW President Ar. Celestino Ulep leads the opening of the Wetland Center Design Symposium

Castillo further emphasized that environmental protection and nature conservation are integral pillars of SM Prime's sustainability campaign and that they believe in the power of cultivating the younger generation’s devotion to building a sustainable future.

The symposium concluded with a comprehensive discussion on the rules and guidelines of the design competition, followed by an open forum and exchange of ideas among participants.

The symposium also marked the beginning of the highly anticipated 4th SCPW Wetland Center Design Competition, which aims to create a platform for talented students in the field of construction and design to showcase their skills and ingenuity and encourages them to address environmental challenges through sustainable solutions.