SM Prime Joins Global Conversation on Building Sustainable Cities for the Future

“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. 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.” ~Mr. Steven Tan, SM Supermalls’ President

(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 Prime Holdings (SM Prime) played a critical 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 the 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) at the SMX Convention Center Aura. The University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) organized a prestigious event with over 300 experts to discuss innovative solutions for building greener and more resilient cities. The conference's theme, "Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation," emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing urban challenges.

SM's commitment to sustainability was demonstrated by the participation of its top executives. President Steven Tan of SM Supermalls showcased the company's eco-friendly practices and community-focused programs.

Mr. Steven Tan, SM Supermalls’ President

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

Jessica Bianca Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy at SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC), spoke about the company's vision of creating sustainable integrated properties that foster vibrant 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

Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC), emphasized the importance of social media in disaster preparedness. He discussed the Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP), NRC approaches and tools, and how risk governance is supported by science.

“From Risk to Resilience: The Work of the National Resilience Council in Risk Governance.” ~Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC)

Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC)

Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead at Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch, emphasized SM Prime's commitment to sustainability during a breakout session on connecting and forming partnerships. Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines, emphasized the importance 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 an economic growth catalyst, creating innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities that improve the quality of life for millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon in integrated property development and moving forward to build sustainable cities of the future.