SM Prime Joins Global Talks on Building Sustainable Cities

SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) played a key role in promoting sustainable urban development by hosting the 7th annual APRU Sustainable Cities and Landscapes (SCL) 2024 Conference and the 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) at SMX Convention Center Aura. Organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), the event gathered over 300 experts to explore innovative solutions for creating greener, more resilient cities. With the theme "Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation," the conference emphasized the need for collaboration in tackling 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 dedication to sustainability was highlighted by the active involvement of its leadership. Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, presented the company’s eco-friendly initiatives and community-centered efforts.

“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 shared.

He further explained, “At SM Supermalls, we harness science and technology to create innovative solutions embedded in the design and operation of our malls. Our commitment is to drive innovation and collaboration, paving the way for a greener, more resilient, and sustainable future for the Philippines.”

Jessica Bianca Sy, SM Prime and SM Development Corporation's (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy, also shared the company’s vision of developing sustainable, integrated properties that cultivate 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 SM's significant contribution to disaster preparedness. In his presentation, "From Risk to Resilience: The Work of the National Resilience Council in Risk Governance," he introduced the Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP) and shared NRC’s strategies and tools, highlighting how science plays a key role in supporting risk governance efforts.

SM Prime’s dedication to sustainability was highlighted during a breakout session on building partnerships, led by Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead at Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila. Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of WWF-Philippines, emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “Building climate resilience requires strong partnerships and cooperation across all sectors.”

SM Prime continues to serve as a catalyst for economic growth by developing innovative, sustainable lifestyle cities that enhance the quality of life for millions. The company remains focused on advancing integrated property development and creating sustainable cities for the future.