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Lifestyle, News

Philippine Book Festival 2025: BIGGER, BETTER, IN A NEW LOCATION

The Philippine Book Festival (PBF), the country’s biggest all-Filipino book festival is back – this time in a new location that is accessible to many. This year’s PBF will be happening at the Megatrade Hall in SMM Megamall, Mandaluyong, City, from March 13 – 16, 2025.

Registration is FREE for the four-day book festival, organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB). Every year, this project puts Philippine Books at the center if a fiesta brimming with events, performances, and meet-and-greet sessions with your favorite authors.

“In just over a month, we are bringing back the Philippine Book Festival. Now in its third year, the PBF started in 2023 as an attempt to create the largest marketplace for Philippine books that the country has yet to see. Now, it has become an important annual gathering for families, educators, creatives, and avid readers – all in the name of Philippine books.” said Charisse Aquino – Tugade, NBDB Executive Director.

The PBF’s third edition promises to be more exciting, putting the spotlight on the country’s famnous festivals, each one designed by some of the best and brightest Filipino artists working today.

THE CREATIVE MINDS BEHIND THE PBF 2025 REALMS. NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade with National Artist and Scriptwriter Ricky Lee together with the artists of PBF 2025 Realms, Paul Eric Roca, Danielle Florendo, Joffrey “Pepot”Atienza and Juno Abreau.

The first is the glorious Dinagyang Festival for Kid Lit (the PBF’s section dedicated to children’s literature), designed by Juno Abreau, and the Komiks realm inspired by the famous Tuna Festival in General Santos City, with design by illustrator and painter Paul Eric Roca. Aral Aklat, the section dedicated to text \books, draws inspiration from the colorful Pahiyas Festival in Quezon courtesy of Joffrey “Pepot” Atienza, himself a native of the province, and finally, Panagbenga or the Baguio Flower Festival for Booktopia (the section for fiction, non-fiction and poetry), with design by Danielle Florendo.

The festive atmosphere is made all the more exciting as the PBF 12025 moves to a new venue – at the Megatrade Hall in SM Megamall. The NBDB believes this fresh location will bring new energy to the festival and draw and even larger audience.

“The decision to move the PBF to a different and smaller venue is definitely a bold one. We hope to offset that with the venue’s accessibility and generate higher foot traffic, as well as provide convenience for more visitors from other areas” shared Tugade.

The PBF is the largest all-Filipino book fair in the country and is one of the NBDB’s flagship programs. NBDB, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this June has amped its readership efforts in the past four years, shifting to solutions-based programming to improve trade and distribution. Concerned with the lack of quality Philippine-authored books in libraries and bookstores across the country, Aguino-Tugade spearheaded the PBF in 2023, a retail activation space that celebrates Philippine books while bringing in revenue for publishing professionals.

The fair also showcases the creme dela creme of Philippine literature, culture, and content – all situated in an engaging, experienced-based setting that fuses entertainment, education, and learning. Positioning PBF as a favorite pastime (reading) among Filipinos, all for a good cause.

For complete details, visit the official FaceBook page of the National Book Development Board (NBDB) https://www.facebook.com/NBDBPhilippines     

Food, News

Braveheart excellence is promoted by the PCPPI Quality Assurance Manager

Showcasing True Braveheart Excellence. PCPPI Quality Control Manager Jackielou De Guzman (center) was joined by PepsiCo executives (from left to right) Senior Vice President and Head of Supply Chain & Operations (Asia Pacific and Greater China) Fred Li, Global Chief Commercial Officer Wern-Yuen Tan,  Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Ramon Laguarta, and  Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer Gregg Roden on stage as she receives her award for PepsiCo’s 2024 Chairman’s Circle of Champions.

For Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI), the year 2024 was a significant one. One of its emerging leaders, the Tomas production facility, was named a member of PepsiCo’s 2024 Chairman’s Circle of Champions. One of the top worldwide operations associates who has shown exceptional success in the areas of safety, quality, service, and cost management is Quality management Manager Jackielou De Guzman. De Guzman attended the award ceremonies in New York last October 2024 along with other prominent workers from throughout the world.

“Representing PCPPI is a great honor. As I aspire to become a better leader, this recognition motivates me to continue being a good example to my colleagues and helping them become the best versions of themselves,” De Guzman said.

Leading the Sto was one of her most noteworthy accomplishments. internal food safety assessments at the Tomas factory and helping the group obtain its first FSSC 22000 Certification in 2019. The manufacturing sector uses this model for safety certification. With her direction, Sto. Throughout their recertification audit cycles and other safety checks and evaluations, Tomas continually delivered quality work.

PCPPI Quality Control Manager Jackielou De Guzman proudly receives her award from PepsiCo Chief Executive Officer Ramon Laguarta for PepsiCo’s 2024 Chairman’s Circle of Champions.

The Sto. Tomas manufacturing team also received high Quality Assurance Systems (QAS) ratings from 2020 to 2023. De Guzman also delivered over 1,300 hours for in-house training programs, such as those on Quality and Food Safety, Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Hygiene practices.

“Through constant knowledge transfer and people engagement, our team ensures all products being produced are within quality standards and comply with regulatory and food safety requirements while maintaining customer satisfaction,” she added.

Her expertise in regulatory compliance was a key factor in the plant’s mission to earn a Certificate of Authority to Operate (CATO) a Chemical Laboratory, which is in pursuant to Republic Act No. 10657 otherwise known as the “Chemistry Profession Act”. She also introduced a project to reduce product loss for PET products, allowing PCPPI to realize significant savings in 2023.

PepsiCo executives celebrate another year of excellence with the 2024 Chairman’s Circle of Champions awardees, including PCPPI’s Quality Control Manager Jackielou De Guzman (2nd row, 6th from left).

De Guzman was chosen as Food Safety Hero of the Sto. Tomas plant during the 2023 World Food Safety Month celebration, and was recognized as a Gold Crown Awardee at the 2024 PCPPI National Summit of Bravehearts. The Gold Crown Award is given to employees who best exemplify PCPPI’s core values of Integrity, Innovation, Care & Respect, Empowerment and Excellence (ICARE).

For PCPPI, the employees are its most valuable assets. “Our Bravehearts are pivotal to our commitment to product and service excellence,” said PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer Phyo Phyu Noe. “We are proud of Jackie’s achievements. Being recognized as part of the PepsiCo Chairman’s Circle of Champions serves as an inspiration for our team to create more opportunities that enable the growth and success of our employees,” he added.

With brands like Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum Soonhari, and Premier, PCPPI is the exclusive producer of PepsiCo beverages in the Philippines. You may find out more about PCPPI and its products at www.pepsiphilippines.com.

Lifestyle, News

In 2025, Eastern Communications Increases Revenue and Continues to Expand Mindanao

[From L to R:] Eastern Communications’ (EC) AVP and Head of Marketing & Customer Experience Jed Estanislao, EC Product Manager Edwin De Jesus, EC CAN Planning & Engineering Head Rachelle Roque, EC Brand Communications Head Hannah Lazatin, and Contributing Editor of Asian Business Review, Simon Hyatt.

The Philippines’ online economy grew at the quickest rate among six Southeast Asian countries in 2024, according to the most recent e-Conomy SEA report by Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company. The nation’s digital economy grew by 20%, with its gross merchandise value (GMV) increasing from $26 billion in 2023 to $31 billion in 2024, mostly due to the growing e-commerce industry.

Leading telecoms and managed ICT services provider Eastern Communications emphasizes its impressive performance over the past 12 months and is prepared to enable businesses with state-of-the-art ICT solutions and its strong, creative network architecture as the need for digitalization increases.

A Year of Growth and Recognition

[From L to R:] Eastern Communications’ (EC) Brand Communications Head Hannah Lazatin, EC Product Manager Edwin De Jesus, EC AVP and Head of Marketing & Customer Experience Jed Estanislao, and EC CAN Planning & Engineering Head Rachelle Roque

Eastern Communications has experienced remarkable business growth and resilience over the past decade. In 2024, Eastern increased its revenue by 8.4%, marking its competitive presence in the telco industry. The company has fueled its success by continuously striving for innovation, operational sustainability, and customer-centric solutions. 

With a growing B2B market share, Eastern Communications has been able to make its innovative ICT solutions more widely accessible. This expansion has significantly impacted offerings like Eastern Cloud, a customizable public cloud platform powered by CloudSigma. Designed for flexibility, Eastern Cloud allows businesses to purchase only the computing resources they need, without being locked into fixed server sizes, offering greater control, cost efficiency, and scalability. 

It was recently named the Cloud Initiative of the Year – Philippines at the Asian Telecom Awards 2025, highlighting Eastern’s effort in redefining cloud computing in the Philippines. More than just a business success story, Eastern Cloud has also helped drive digital transformation across industries in the Philippines by enabling businesses to reduce IT infrastructure costs by up to 30%.

Further demonstrating its infrastructure excellence, Eastern Communications also received the Infrastructure Initiative of the Year – Philippines award for its participation in the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN),a joint venture between Eastern Communications, Globe Group, and InfiniVAN, designed to fortify the country’s communication infrastructure. 

Addressing the vulnerabilities of traditional networks, the PDSCN Express Route strategically ensures that at least 80% of cables are laid underwater, with less than 20% inland, significantly reducing the risks of network disruptions caused by cable cuts. Through this innovative approach, Eastern Communications delivers enhanced bandwidth and network resilience, empowering Filipinos—especially those in disaster-prone areas—with stronger, more reliable connectivity.

For Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications, this recognition marks an exciting start to the year. “We are truly grateful for these global recognitions. They highlight our continuous mission to drive digital transformation across the Philippines. They fuel our passion to push boundaries, to empower businesses with resilient connectivity and future-ready solutions, and to champion ICT education and accessibility for all Filipinos,” she said 

Expanding Reach and Elevating its Heart of Service

Eastern Communications’ management committee leads the pack through strategic growth in 2025

Eastern Communications is committed to expanding its network to more business hubs across the country. In 2025, the company will extend its services to key cities including: Cotabato City, in BARMM, General Santos City in South Cotabato, and Dipolog City in Zamboanga del Norte.

“Our continuous expansion across the country is more than just growing our footprint, but pushing for a digital-ready Philippines and driving economic progress. With the rising demand for digital solutions, we aim to bring our world-class connectivity to rising business centers across the country, strategically improving our network to provide world-class connectivity to Filipinos,” said Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

Strengthening Security and Connectivity with DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS

Eastern Communications enhances nationwide infrastructure through its submarine cable laying project.

As cyberthreats become more sophisticated, Eastern Communications continues to invest in next-level security solutions. One of its latest offerings, DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS (Internet Direct Service), provides a premium, dedicated, high-speed internet solution designed to meet the demands of modern businesses.

DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS uses fiber-powered leased line technology, coupled with robust DDoS (Distributed denial of service) protection, ensuring reliable 24/7 connectivity with speeds of up to 10 GBPS, symmetrical upload and download speeds, and resilient access to global internet backbones. This cutting-edge solution enhances workforce productivity while safeguarding businesses against cyber disruptions.

As Eastern Communications looks ahead, it remains dedicated to being more than just a telco and ICT provider—it aims to be a trusted managed services partner of choice for businesses. Eastern continues to highlight its Heart of Service, delivering personalized solutions that drive business success. In 2024, the company’s Customer Satisfaction Score rose to an above-industry standard of 96.1%, demonstrating its dedication to customer experience excellence. 

The company’s 2025 campaign, “Exceeding Expectations,” was inspired by its Heart of Service and intends to use Eastern’s high-tech and high-touch solutions to assist businesses surpass their objectives and improve their own customer experience.

Please visit www.eastern.com.ph to find out more about Eastern Communications.

Lifestyle, News

This year, do you have a huge financial goal? Metrobank demonstrates the value of deliberate saving and the associated  threefold bonus

 Making saving easier, rewarding, and aligned with the Filipino consumers’ financial aspirations. Monj Del Rosario, Metrobank’s Consumer Business Head, reinforces the bank’s commitment to enabling Filipinos to unlock their life goals with offers that address their needs.

Let’s face it, with your daily bills stacking up, your concerns about unforeseen emergency expenses, and the general need for the proper savings habit, saving money can frequently feel overwhelming.

And you’re not the only one. According to data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), family spending is increasing while saving rates are down. From 29% in the third quarter of 2024 to 25.6% in the final quarter, the percentage of households with savings decreased. In the meantime, household expenditure has been rising for the upcoming quarter, especially when it comes to costs for dining out, clothes, and food. Life throws you curveballs, your costs go up, and all of a sudden your savings objectives seem farther away than ever. This is a frequent struggle.

At a recent event, Metrobank talked about the difficulties that can arise when saving money and how you can have a chance to change this by making saving a conscious habit and utilizing valuable deals like its newly announced Triple Bonus promotion. As we often find ourselves easily swayed into purchasing various things, I must admit that I am guilty of this. That’s why I truly appreciate the valuable insights Metrobank provides on effectively managing finances. They not only share essential data on saving rates and financial trends but also equip us with deeper knowledge about financial management and exclusive offers.

According to the bank, one simple but effective way to start saving money intentionally is through goal-based saving which entails having separate accounts for specific financial goals – a modern take on the classic envelope method. By having dedicated savings accounts for your goals, you create a clear boundary between what’s meant for spending on your essentials and what’s meant for saving for your dreams.

Say no to #FOMO and yes to #SWOMO. Cris Concepcion, Institutional Brand Marketing Head, introduces the concept of “saving without missing out” (SWOMO) – reiterating that saving money shouldn’t feel like a sacrifice. Filipino savers should be able to set aside funds for their dreams, big and small, on top of working towards financial security.

The bank also highlighted that saving shouldn’t feel like a sacrifice. While it’s important to save money to prepare for emergencies or retirement, Metrobank encourages savers like you to Save Without Missing Out or to #SWOMO. This entails setting aside money to fund your dreams, whether that’s a solo backpacking trip to Japan, a dream destination wedding, or buying a comfortable home. This helps strike a balance between striving to be financially secure and living the life you’ve aways dreamed of.

 Reach your life goals with Metrobank. Ina Pilares, Head of Retail Deposits and Payments, discusses how Metrobank’s Triple Bonus Promo, which runs from today until April 30, 2025, provides meaningful offers that help empower Filipinos to reach their savings goals.

Saving for these goals is made even more rewarding with Metrobank’s Triple Bonus Promo, that offers meaningful perks to help you reach your financial goals. After all, building your savings is the best gift you can give to your future self. When you open your first Metrobank savings or checking account from now until April 30, 2025, you get a triple bonus that will help set you up on your savings journey:

  1. PHP 1,500 Cash Gift: Consider this a head start, a boost to your savings, or a well-deserved reward for taking that first step in building your goals fund. Enjoy a cash gift equivalent to a 3% return on your savings, when you deposit and maintain PHP 50,000 in your account, for 6 consecutive months.
  • Rebates on InstaPay Fees for a year: Make your everyday transactions lighter on your wallet with up to 10 waived InstaPay fees per month, for 12 months. Just maintain at least PHP50,000 in your account monthly for a year to enjoy this exclusive benefit. This will definitely put more money back into your pocket – because every peso counts, especially for your everyday expenses.
  • AXA Personal Accident Insurance: Life happens, and unexpected expenses can derail your plans and deplete your savings. With this insurance coverage, you can focus on your goals, knowing that you have a safety net for unexpected events in your life. Keep at least PHP50,000 in your account every month for a year to enjoy this added protection.

Save for the future you dream of. Influencers and friends from the media pose with their creative vision-to-action boards– as they commit to saving more intentionally for their life goals with the help of Metrobank.
 

With these rewards, Metrobank aims to encourage more people to be able to save money, and ultimately, start building the financial habits that will allow you to reach your life goals. To enjoy these offers, head to your nearest Metrobank branch and open your first Metrobank account.

As you save for your life goals in 2025, give yourself a threefold bonus.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Metrobank-shares-the-power-of-intentional-saving-and-the-triple-bonus-pic-5.jpg

 Money-festing Friends from the media excitedly create colorful vision boards for their life goals, with Metrobank’s Triple Bonus promo being the enabler of their dreams.

Visit the Metrobank location that is closest to you or visit https://metrobank.com.ph to find out more.

Lifestyle, News

From March 2 (8 PM) until March 7, take advantage of coupons, LazFlash Deals, and free shipping during Lazada’s 3.3 Pasabog Sale!

The nation’s first e-commerce site, Lazada, is starting March with premium products at cheaper prices during its 3.3 Pasabog Sale, which runs from March 2 at 8 PM to March 7. Take advantage of up to 90% OFF LazFlash offers, 100% free shipping with no minimum buy, and up to P2000 Lazada coupons when you switch to the better 3.3 sale!

Customers can use Lazada’s array of GenAI services, such as AI Lazzie—Southeast Asia’s first eCommerce chatbot—for a more smart and tailored buying experience. Customers’ decision-making process is streamlined by this application, which offers virtual try-ons, image-based searches, customized recommendations, product review summaries, and a skin analyzer.

In order to provide more flexibility and satisfaction, Lazada has enhanced its return and refund policy. It now offers 30-day free returns, which is twice the industry standard, as well as a simple refund procedure with more categories for Change of Mind returns.

Shop Lazada’s 3.3 Pasabog Sale from March 2 at 8 PM to March 7 and follow Lazada Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for additional daily pasabog offers.

Food, News

AT THE 70TH CONVENTION OF NDAP, AJINOMOTO PHILIPPINES CORPORATION CELEBRATES NUTRITION INNOVATIONS

A former Ajinomoto Foundation scholar, Dr. Giselle Grace Lim-Co Yu Kang , led the discussion on Transforming Taste and Nutrition: Practical Innovations for Dietetic Practice at NDAP’s 70th Annual Convention in Manila Hotel.

From February 18–20, 2025, in the Manila Hotel, the Nutritionist-Dietitians’ Association of the Philippines (NDAP) celebrated its 70th Annual Convention, marking a significant milestone. Leading nutrition experts throughout the nation convened at the event to talk about the most recent developments in nutrition for health and wellness.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), a Platinum Sponsor of this historic occasion, proudly reaffirmed its dedication to public health, sustainable diets, and nutrition. With decades of experience in taste innovation and food science, APC is attending this year’s convention to highlight the value of nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Umami and its connection to healthier eating habits were the main points of interest.

A key highlight of APC’s participation is the symposium “Transforming Taste and Nutrition: Practical Innovations for Dietetic Practice,” featuring Dr. Giselle Grace Lim-Co Yu Kang, an esteemed expert in biochemistry and a proud former scholar of the Ajinomoto Foundation through APC. The session focused on how umami flavors can enhance vegetable consumption, addressing a crucial challenge in improving dietary habits by moving them towards a well-balanced, more sustainable lifestyle.

Beyond the symposium, APC also welcomed Ms. Andrea Wakita from Ajinomoto Co., Inc. or AJICO Global Communications Department, along with 15 members of the Asian Young Dietitians Network (AYDN), fostering international collaboration among nutrition professionals. The delegation collaborated with local experts to exchange knowledge and share best practices in sustainable nutrition.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation used the occasion to reaffirm its position as a reliable partner in health and wellness as NDAP commemorates 70 years of leadership in nutrition and dietetics. APC keeps up its goal of giving Filipinos wholesome, sustainable, and tasty dietary options by collaborating with nutritionists, medical professionals, and wellness advocates.

Delegates from Asian Young Dietitians Network (AYDN), led by Ms. Andrea Wakita (right most) from Ajinomoto Co., Inc. Global Communications Department at Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation’s booth during NDAP’s 70th Convention
 

This initiative combines the power of innovation and nutrition to create a better future for the Philippines, embodying the “Eat Well, Live Well” motto of the Ajinomoto Group.

Lifestyle, News

Manila will host the largest international conference of image experts in April

AICI President Olen Juarez-Lim with AICI Punta Cana 2023 attendees

The AICI Global Conference 2025, which will take place in Manila from April 24 to 27, will bring together image consultants from around the world to discuss issues ranging from fashion choices and the power of communication to etiquette and protocol to personal image, visual branding and industry strength, networking and the necessity of presence, and more.

Olen Juarez-Lim

The first Asian president of the 35-year-old Association of Image Consultants International (AICI), Ms. Olen Juarez-Lim, founder and president of OJL Consulting Group, is hosting the 2025 global conference of the international professional association.

The largest and most prominent association of image consultants in the world is called AICI.

Members from 38 AICI chapters across 60 countries will be present at the event. The worldwide conference will take place in Asia, namely in the Philippines, for the first time in AICI’s history.

It will take place from April 24 to 27 at the Makati Shangri-La Manila, where delegates and conference participants will experience Philippine culture and fashion and visit tourist destinations.

“Image consultants from the USA, Latin America, China, Malaysia, India, Australia, the UK, and other regions will fly here to exchange ideas, share success stories, push the boundaries of image consulting, and strengthen global collaborations. The conference aims to propel our profession to new heights as we seek effective strategies to help our clients succeed in this challenging, constantly changing marketplace,” Ms. Juarez-Lim said.

The theme of the 2025 conference is “Elevating Excellence: Breakthrough Strategies for Image Consulting Mastery”. “It is a call to action for image consultants to hone their craft and find ways to push the boundaries of innovation,” she added.

AICI Punta Cana 2023

Image consultancy has been acknowledged as an important profession in the modern world. Celebrities, athletes, politicians, business leaders, and brands recognize the value of managing how markets and audiences perceive them.

“The AICI Global Conference offers an outstanding networking experience for ongoing professional development. The Manila conference will foster meaningful exchanges regarding trends, technology, and innovative practices in image consulting. This 2025 edition represents the most dynamic array of educational opportunities in our organization’s history, featuring keynotes and special guests alongside the full conference experience,” said Rosario Diz of Argentina, vice president of the global conference.

“AICI aims to provide an immersive experience that highlights Filipino hospitality, cuisine and the arts. This unique backdrop provides an excellent opportunity for attendees to experience the warmth and friendliness of the Filipino people, making the conference both educational and culturally entertaining. We are proud and delighted to welcome everyone to our country and showcase our rich culture,” Ms. Juarez-Lim said.

Lifestyle, News

Supporting DOE’s renewable energy objectives, SM fortifies its shift to solar PVs

SM City Bataan and its 4,060-piece solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have a peak capacity of 2,376,000 kW

There has never been a greater pressing demand for renewable energy as the globe struggles with diminishing resources. Since malls use a lot of energy, they have a special chance to take the lead in creating a more sustainable and greener future by implementing renewable energy solutions that can drastically lessen their environmental effect.

Recognizing this, SM has been implementing strategies to reduce its carbon impact and increasing its renewable energy efforts steadily. Adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which directly convert sunlight into electricity, is one such alternative. PV systems offer clean, sustainable energy. As a result, SM is able to lessen its dependency on fossil fuels, cut energy expenses, and promote environmental sustainability.

Expanding solar power across SM malls

As of February 2025, SM is nearing full operations for the solar PV systems installed in 45 of its properties across the country, with more slated for retrofitting soon.

SM’s use of solar PV systems is just one of the many ways the company has been taking a more sustainable approach to energy use while supporting the country in achieving its sustainability goals. Its efforts continue to be recognized by reputable institutions both locally and internationally.

Industry recognition for SM’s sustainability efforts

For instance, SM’s flagship mall, SM Mall of Asia, was recognized at the 2024 Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards and Sustainable Energy Awards organized by the Department of Energy (DOE). It won the Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution for its solar PV system, which is capable of generating 2.7-megawatts (MW) of peak energy—enough to power 1,790 households for an entire year.

Meanwhile, SM City Butuan was recognized under the New and Existing Building category at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Energy Awards 2024 Best Practices Competition for Energy-Efficient Buildings. Endorsed by the DOE to represent the Philippines, the mall was honored for advancing energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) innovations in its design and operations.

Supporting the DOE’s Renewable Energy Roadmap

Alongside its efforts to integrate renewable energy sources into its operations, SM is also committed to supporting the DOE in achieving its targets under the Renewable Energy Roadmap 2017-2040, particularly its goal to increase the country’s renewable energy installed capacity to at least 20,000 MW by 2040.

SM City Tanza is one of the 45 SM malls with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, numbering 2,286 units, which will produce 1,257.30 kW peak solar power.

Public-Private Partnerships for a sustainable future

SM collaborates with partner solar PV system providers under the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Distributed Energy Resources program. These service contracts define the conditions of the partnership, project timelines, and the assigned malls for each provider, aligning with SM’s adoption of renewable energy.

“At SM, sustainability is a commitment. Our growing solar portfolio demonstrates our dedication to a greener future for the Philippines, in partnership with the DOE and our valued partners,” shared SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group Engr. Liza Silerio.

 “Together, we’re not just generating cost savings – we’re shaping a more sustainable future by supporting long-term environmental goals of our partners while contributing to the Philippines’ green transition,” said Green Heat Corporation Director Glenn Tong. Green Heat is one of SM’s solar PV system providers. 

SM City Butuan with its solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. 

A model for sustainable development

Beyond its environmental and economic benefits, SM’s implementation of solar PV systems serves as a progressive model for public-private partnerships (PPPs). By collaborating with the DOE, SM gains access to technical expertise and financial incentives while helping the country meet its sustainability goals. This approach promotes innovation, creates jobs, and sets a precedent for other commercial establishments to follow.

DOE’s support for sustainable energy development

“The DOE has implemented sustainable energy development strategies and institutionalized national and local capabilities, and we are heartened by the strong support we have received from both the private and public sectors,” said DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara in her opening address at the Sustainable Energy Awards.

For additional information about SM’s sustainability programs, go to www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

Lifestyle, News

With a state-of-the-art trash boat, SM Prime and DENR support cleanup activities in Manila Bay

The 30-foot catamaran is designed to efficiently collect and carry up to 1 ton of waste.

To support the continued fight against water pollution, SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) were present to give over a cutting-edge catamaran trash boat for Manila Bay. The boat, along with necessary safety and navigational gear and cleaning supplies, was delivered to DENR on January 31st. The DENR Metropolitan Environmental Office-South Zone will run the 30-foot catamaran, which will help the agency fight water pollution and protect the important maritime habitat.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-
Loyzaga (middle) receives the symbolic key to a catamaran donated by SM Prime, boosting Manila Bay cleanup efforts.

This contribution adds to the DENR’s arsenal of tools for cleaning Manila Bay. The catamaran will facilitate the more effective collection of rubbish and floating debris, supporting the larger endeavor to restore the biological health of the bay and enhance water quality. The work with SM Prime serves as an excellent example of how well public-private partnerships may address intricate environmental issues.

“This catamaran represents our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and our belief in the power of collaboration to create a sustainable future for our communities,” said SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio, emphasizing the shared vision of both organizations. SM Prime’s contribution complements the DENR’s ongoing initiatives, including the Paranaque Adopt-a-River project, and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving lasting environmental improvements.

From left: Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Jonas
Leones, DENR National Capital Region (NCR) Regional Executive Director Michael Drake
Matias, DENR Assistant Secretary and Environmental Management Bureau Director Jacqueline
Caancan, SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia
Yulo-Loyzaga, and SM Prime Estate Management and Development Senior Assistant Vice President Orliber Paule at the catamaran handover ceremony.

The agency’s dedication to using partnerships to further its environmental objectives was underscored by the attendance of DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga and other DENR officials. The DENR’s ongoing efforts to keep Manila Bay clean and safeguard its priceless resources for coming generations would be greatly aided by the catamaran. This partnership is an example of how the public and private sectors may cooperate to solve urgent environmental issues and make the environment healthier.

Lifestyle, News

The first Annual General Meeting of ARISE Philippines lays the groundwork for a resilient 2030

Multi-sector representatives attend ARISE Philippines’ first Annual General Assembly in 2025.

On January 27, the ARISE Secretariat headquarters in MOA Square, Mall of Asia Complex, hosted the first annual general meeting for 2025 of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE) Philippines, one of the nation’s premier resilience networks. ARISE Philippines, which now has 156 private sector enterprises, civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic institutions as members, is well-positioned to make a big difference in disaster resilience initiatives across the country.

The meeting’s subject, “Catalyzing Progress for a Resilient and Sustainable Future towards ARISE 2030,” was based on the statement, “Innovate, Integrate, Elevate,” which exhorted participants to adopt novel strategies, work together across industries, and raise the bar for disaster resilience standards.

ARISE Philippines Board Members (from left): Dr. Ma. Teresita Medado, Sylvestre Barrameda Jr., Austere Panadero, ARISE Philippines Co-Chair Engr. Liza Silerio, ARISE Global Board Member Vice Admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama, Raymond Rufino, and Michael Rellosa (not in photo: Rosemarie Rafael and Jessica Bianca Sy)

The Co-Chair representing the private sector, Engr. Liza Silerio, welcomed the collective and expressed her gratitude for the network’s role in promoting community resilience and sustainable progress. For the public sector, Office of Civil Defense Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of engineering solutions in disaster preparedness and highlighted the critical role of committed private sector leaders in building a more resilient nation.

Chief of Office UNDRR Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific Marco Toscano-Rivalta, in a video message, commended ARISE Philippines for its outstanding contributions to disaster risk reduction. “I extend my profound gratitude for ARISE Philippines’ exemplary leadership and contributions,” he stated. He referenced the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction held in Manila last October 2024, saying, “Your efforts were instrumental to the event’s success. ARISE has showcased the power of public-private partnerships and set the benchmark for other regions to follow.”

Member companies pledge their participation in ARISE Philippines’ seven new programs.

ARISE Global Board Member Vice Admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama, ret., was present to bolster the local network and guarantee its support to the international alliance. A highlight of the meeting was the unveiling of seven ARISE Philippines Materials and Knowledge products by the ARISE Board of Directors. These resources are designed to support members in implementing resilience-building initiatives. The meeting also included a call to action for members to actively participate in seven new programs to be initiated this year.

Mr. Hans Sy, ARISE Philippines Chairperson for the Private Sector, addresses members and observers.

Mr. Hans Sy, Chairperson for the Private Sector at ARISE Philippines, urged the members and observers in attendance to act, work together, and remain together in his closing remarks. In order to build a stronger and more resilient Philippines for future generations, he called on everyone to cooperate in order to “co-create bridges for resilience.”

The ARISE Philippines network’s secretariat office, SM Prime Holdings, promotes a corporate culture that is resilient to both natural and man-made hazards. Visit www.arise.ph or send an email to [email protected] for additional information.