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In furtherance of its goal to improve farmers’ agricultural and entrepreneurial abilities, SM Foundation, Inc. The Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP) was recently introduced by the organization in several Calabarzon locales.

The initiative was first introduced on April 13, 2023, in Padre Garcia, Batangas, and has since been expanded to Silang, Cavite, Batangas City, San Pablo, Laguna, and Calamba City. In order to assist other recipients in improving their families and communities, SMFI is also planning to offer free agri-skills training to local farmers in other areas of the region.

Empowering local farmers

 
The local farmer-beneficiaries will undergo a two-phased program, spearheaded by its partner school Moca Family Farm RLearning Center, Inc.  

 
The said program kicked off with an immersive 14-week training program, designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in agriculture. The modular training curriculum covers topics on the latest agri-technology updates, capacity building, financial literacy, product development, and market opportunities. Through these comprehensive modules, KSK-SAP aims to empower and enhance farmers’ agricultural practices and explore avenues for sustainable growth.

As a highlight of the program’s first phase, KSK-SAP farmers will join the SM Sunday Market, a collaborative initiative between SM Foundation and SM Supermalls. This platform offers trainees a valuable opportunity to showcase their agricultural produce and gain firsthand experience in institutional selling. Through this market opportunity, participants can not only generate income but also cultivate their expertise and experience in the sales and marketing aspects of their agri-businesses.

To prepare for the second phase of the program, SMFI will also assist the farmers in formalizing their respective groups. To boost their earning capactiy and contribution to economic growth, the foundation will support them in creating a sustainable and profitable farming community through the assistance of its partner agencies.

Henry “Tatang” Sy Sr., the creator of SMFI, had a goal for KSK-SAP to be a sustainable effort that would improve the farming abilities, food security, and livelihood knowledge of low-income Filipino farmers. The program has grown over time into a thorough training program that creates chances for skill development, employment, and subsistence.

More than 28,000 marginalized farmers from rural and urban areas around the nation have benefited from KSK-SAP since its founding in 2007, enhancing their capacity for farming and entrepreneurship. Some program graduates have consequently evolved into seasonal vendors for the SM group and other neighborhood markets.

KSK-SAP is carried out by the SM Foundation in collaboration with partner agricultural schools, SM Supermalls, TESDA, DA, DSWD, DOST, DTI, and DOT.

Three international award-giving organizations have recognized SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the top integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, for excellence in transparent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting for its 2021 Annual Integrated Report titled “Together, We Rise.”

Even before the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the Philippines made sustainability reporting mandatory, SM began publishing its sustainability reports in 2013. By alerting investors and other stakeholders on its ESG performance and impacts, decision-making procedures, and competitive positioning value in the industry, SM Prime further encourages transparency and accountability.

“We are honored to receive these awards as a recognition of our commitment to provide transparent reporting in our sustainable practices. We value all our stakeholders, and we strive to enrich the quality of life of the Filipino people,” SM Prime President Mr. Jeffrey Lim said.

At the summit of international recognitions, SM Prime bagged accolades from the biggest and most coveted awards competition in the business world called Stevie® Awards. The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards recognizes business innovation across the entire Asia-Pacific region, whereas IBAs is one of the first and most highly anticipated awards programs of the Stevie Awards that features a wide variety of categories relevant to every facet of the workplace that is open to all kinds and sizes of organizations globally. SM Prime was awarded the Bronze Stevie® Winner at the 2023 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards program and Silver Stevie® Winner in the 2022 International Business Awards (IBAs).

Additionally, the business received a Silver Rank in the National Center for Sustainability Reporting’s (NCSR) 2022 Asia Sustainability Reporting Rating (ASRRAT), a ranking system for sustainability reports. The GRI Standards compliance, GHG disclosure transparency, alignment with and support of the UN SDGs are just a few of the criteria used in the ASRRAT rating system.

The awards and recognition from other countries are proof of SM Prime’s active engagement in promoting sustainability throughout its activities. SM Prime continues to be a driving force behind economic growth by creating sustainable lifestyle cities that improve the quality of life for millions of people.

SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI), in collaboration with SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPHI), and the Department of Education (DepEd), has recently worked to construct two new school buildings in Laguna and Batangas, as part of its commitment to helping upgrade the country’s education system.

Two two-story four-classroom school buildings will be donated to the Laguna Resettlement Community School in San Pedro City, Laguna, and the San Antonio Elementary School in Sto. Tomas City is located in Batangas.

To ensure that children, particularly from low-income neighborhoods, have access to contemporary, secure, and conducive learning environments, each of the school buildings is planned to be furnished with instructional materials, chairs, handwashing facilities, emergency equipment, and PWD-friendly amenities.

At the signing of the memorandum of understanding on April 28, 2023, at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) in Malvar, Batangas, representatives from the SMFI, DepEd, and the local government units of the aforementioned provinces formalized the collaboration.

SM Foundation, through its School Building Program, is an active partner of DepEd in various educational programs. This social good initiative aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms nationwide. To date, it has turned over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities.

NegoSentro Media has named veteran automotive industry specialist Mark Saberola as the new Editor-in-Chief for its Auto & Tech website, which is an exciting move for the Auto & Tech sector. Additionally, they are launching a brand-new video podcast series in which Saberola will play the role of “Kuya Mark”

Mark Saberola, widely known as “The Talyer Mentor,” brings a remarkable depth of knowledge in the automobile industry to his new position at NegoSentro Media’s Auto & Tech platform. Saberola’s professional history displays a distinctive blend of practical expertise and leadership skills, starting with his early years at Ford Motor Company and ending with the establishment of the lucrative ValuePlus Auto Service franchise. His technological business, AutoServed, which showcases his extensive understanding of innovation and technology within the automotive industry, serves to further support his credentials. The different perspectives and experiences of Saberola are expected to significantly enhance the Auto & Tech platform of NegoSentro Media.

The podcast will include insightful discussions with figures from the auto and IT industries as well as other relevant fields. The mission of Saberola is to build a platform for many viewpoints while fostering innovation, business knowledge, and motivational success stories.

The Kuya Mark video podcast will be a highlight of Saberola’s role at NegoSentro. The twice-monthly podcast will cover a broad spectrum of topics, from insider insights into the auto industry to discussions on tech innovations and beyond. Each episode, lasting approximately 8-10 minutes, will feature Saberola’s engaging style and in-depth knowledge, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Homer Nievera, NegoSentro’s Chief Digipreneur, said, “Mark is the perfect choice for me. Besides being a co-alumnus at the Asian Institute of Management, his years of balanced experience in the motoring industry are commendable. We are thrilled to have Mark spearhead this new initiative. His knack for engaging storytelling, will make ‘Kuya Mark’ a standout addition to our lineup of digital content.”

Saberola expressed his excitement about this new venture: “I’m thrilled to join NegoSentro Media and launch the Kuya Mark podcast. It’s a fantastic platform to share insights, engage with our audience, and discuss anything and everything about cars and the tech space.”

“We have been searching for a year now for an EIC for our motoring niche, and Mark is a perfect fit. As someone who’s well-versed in both motoring and tech, he will drive the publication to new heights,” adds Nievera.

The selection of Saberola by NegoSentro Media and the debut of the Kuya Mark podcast are smart moves to improve their Auto & Tech content, providing a novel and interesting viewpoint to their audience. Keep an eye out for Kuya Mark’s video podcast, which promises a special mix of knowledge, inspiration, and entertainment in its debut episode.

Negosentro Media is a leading digital platform dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and providing resources for business growth and development. With a strong commitment to fostering innovation, Negosentro Media offers relevant news, articles, and insights across various industries, including automotive and technology. Visit www.negosentro.com for more details.

Kuya Mark, also known as Mark Saberola, is a seasoned automotive industry professional who recently joined Negosentro Media as the Editor-in-Chief for their Auto & Tech website. Beyond his editorial role, Mark also serves as the General Manager and Franchisor at ValuePlus Auto Services, the founder of AutoServed, and the inspirational figure behind Talyer Mentor. Known for his unique blend of practical experience and leadership skills, Kuya Mark shares his knowledge and passion for cars and technology through engaging content, including his innovative video podcast series. As a mentor and subject matter expert, Kuya Mark is dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs and businesses succeed in the dynamic world of automotive and technology. Visit www.talyermentor.com and www.autoandtech.com for more details.

In the Philippines, SATO, the social business arm of the LIXIL Group, has just begun operations. SATO offers consumers and institutions in rural and peri-urban regions who require off-grid solutions innovative, aspirational, and cost-effective sanitation and hygiene products. SATO presented its product range to decision-makers, corporate executives, and potential partners in the nation on May 17, 2023 at the Okada Manila. As we witness the meaningful event, we are delighted to know more about SATO and how beneficial the product they have for the people. I’m also excited to try and get to know more about them as I trust their efficiency. As we strive to better our lives, SATO is here to help us and give us the choices that would make our lives safe and healthy.

The launch is in line with SATO’s mission to inspire people to live a better life, every day, and enjoy a brighter future through innovative sanitation and hygiene solutions, which also happens to be the brand’s 10th anniversary. The launch in Southeast Asia is a further step in LIXIL’s mission to enhance 100 million lives by 2025.

SATO’s sanitation and hygiene products offer a practical and affordable solution to around 7 million Filipinos who still open defecate or use unimproved toilets. In addition, more than 20 million people have inadequate hand washing facilities at home, according to WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (JMP).

The new range of products will also be instrumental in supporting the country as the Philippine government works to attain Zero Open Defecation (ZOD) status and achieve universal access to safe and adequate sanitary facilities by 2028.  

The SATO series is produced in the Philippines by Manly Plastics, the largest supplier of end-to-end plastic solutions and a company that has been active there for more than 59 years. It is reliable, economical, water-saving, and easily accessible. Manly is a reputable and trusted brand with capabilities ranging from mold engineering to fabrication, mass production, and more. Manly has cooperated with businesses across the globe to produce and supply plastic components and products.

The SATO pan, stool, I-trap, and a hand washing station called the SATO Tap that enables handwashing with as little as 100 ml of water are just a few of the toilet solutions that Manly will produce for SATO. The SATO-developed trap door technology is used in the toilet solutions to minimize odor, keep insects at bay, and conserve water, providing freshness, comfort, and safety to homes and establishments without access to running water and sewage systems. Customers who want to build their first toilet or upgrade an existing one can utilize the goods in off-set settings or direct pits.

“The launch in the Philippines is a proud moment for SATO and LIXIL as we serve more consumers and institutions and expand our reach and impact into a new region. SATO solutions are already making a difference in the life of millions across the world as the brand works with partners who believe in our mission of sustainable and safely managed sanitation and hygiene” – Says Suguru Sakata, Leader, Asia, SATO

Jonathan Co from Manly  elaborated about the partnership, saying: “Simple solutions can create a large impact. We are thankful to LIXIL for bringing SATO Toilet; this is a much needed hygiene solution for the country, and at the same time, it will help the economy by choosing to manufacture locally, creating jobs for our citizens. We are committed to helping LIXIL make SATO toilet solutions a success in the Philippines. SATO is a great example and that’s why we are proud to add this innovative and affordable range of sanitation and hygiene solutions to Manly’s portfolio of offerings to its many customers.”

With the construction of its dealership in Barangay Langlangca II, Candon City, Ilocos Sur, Toyota Ilocos Sur will soon be able to meet the mobility demands of clients in the Ilocos Region. This will be the 74th dealership for Toyota Motor Philippines.

A “3S” facility, Toyota Ilocos Sur will offer sales, service, and replacement components. The dealership will have a total floor size of 5,868 square meters and be situated on a 2-hectare property. A workshop with 37 General Service & Body Repair Bays and a showroom with four vehicles on display are both included.

“We are confident that with the strong guidance of our next generation leaders and their team, along with the supervision and partnership with TMP, we can lead in offering the best possible customer experience in Ilocos Sur and further expand our market in the whole of Region 1,” said Rene So, President of Toyota Dagupan Inc. Group during the groundbreaking event.

“With the construction of Toyota Ilocos Sur, Toyota looks to maintain its position in the industry as the top-of-mind car brand. We are excited to welcome this new dealership as we create mobility and happiness for all our customers in the province of Ilocos Sur,” said TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Division Masando Hashimoto.

The Philippine government has awarded contracts to SunAsia Energy Inc. and Blueleaf Energy to construct and manage the largest floating solar project in the world, with a total capacity of more than 610.5 megawatts (MW).

The Department of Energy (DoE) has issued the first batch of Solar Energy Operating Contracts (SEOCs) for a total of 1.3 gigawatts (GW) in floating solar projects, marking a significant development in the nation’s energy sector.

During President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s state visit to Singapore in September 2022, Blueleaf Energy, a standalone portfolio company of Macquarie, signed a Letter of Intent (LOI). In the Philippines, the firm promised to considerably increase its investments in sustainable infrastructure.

In partnership with SunAsia Energy, Blueleaf Energy is jointly developing the large-scale floating solar facility on Laguna Lake, spanning the growing cities of Calamba, Sta. Rosa and Cabuyao, and the towns of Bay and Victoria.

During the contract turnover ceremonies, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla reiterated his promise to strengthen the renewable energy sector and declared the DoE’s strong support for the commercialization of floating solar facilities as an emerging technology.

Australian Ambassador HK Yu PSM and Singaporean Ambassador Gerard Ho Wei Hong were among those who attended the event at the DoE office in Makati City. The program echoed the need to accelerate the realization of the country’s decarbonization targets by 2040.

Raghuram Natarajan, CEO of Blueleaf Energy, said that “as an active investor in sustainable infrastructure in the Asia Pacific region, we believe the Philippines holds great potential to add significant renewable energy capacity to its energy mix and at the same time delivering green energy at an affordable cost compared to fossil fuels.”

The recent announcement of the removal of foreign ownership restrictions, Mr. Natarajan said, “is an important step in attracting the much-needed foreign direct investments in Philippine Renewable Energy (RE) sector to accelerate the energy transition for meeting the country’s decarbonization and net zero targets.”

After the signing of the SEOCs, Blueleaf Energy’s top executive said his company would push for cooperation among public and private stakeholders to ensure the successful development of the project.

This will “not only contribute to the country’s RE goals, but also spark green job growth locally during construction and the long-term operations of these floating solar projects, enable local supply chains through the manufacturing of critical components and bring about notable benefits to the local community,” Mr. Natarajan said.

The SEOC is a testament to the viability of this emerging technology. Tetchi Capellan, president and CEO of SunAsia Energy, noted that “land use is becoming a big issue for renewables.”

“People are worrying about competing uses of land, and in some markets, you might struggle to find land,” Capellan said. “There is a strong incentive to build on water as the Philippines gears up for an ambitious 46 GW solar energy installations in 2040 and at the same time, increase power supply in the country.”

She said that this first 610MW floating solar project “is our collective legacy, our immeasurable contribution to the body of knowledge in the renewable energy space and to the growing solar energy installations worldwide.”

“Once built, we are certain that it will stand as one of the engineering wonders of the world. It will capture the imagination of developers, it will be published in multiple journals, shared in social media, visited by hundreds of practitioners, and studied by academics,” Capellan added.

Since 2019, SunAsia Energy has been operating a testbed on Laguna Lake to study the behavior of waves, the movement of wind, the intensity of the sun, as well as the variability of the temperature in the locality. The wealth of experience has contributed to the growing knowledge of floating solar panels on the lake.

SunAsia Energy further explained that like land-based systems, floating solar panels generate electricity from the sun’s rays. But the bodies of water that these farms rest on also help to cool the panels, allowing them to be more efficient than terrestrial solar, according to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute.

Solar-on-water will definitely boost clean power as the world races to cut carbon emissions. Massive solar farms can now be found atop bodies of water in South Korea, Japan, China, Thailand, Singapore, and Portugal.

Developing solar-on-water projects, in the country’s largest lake, will help achieve not only the government’s ambitious decarbonization target but also much needed power to run industries, light homes, and energize cities.

More importantly, it will be a legacy of the Philippines to the global renewable energy space, SunAsia Energy said.

In the last two decades, Blueleaf Energy has developed and built almost 2 GW of solar capacity across the globe, including 250 MW in the Philippines. It currently has over 7 GW of solar, wind and storage projects project pipeline across the Asia Pacific region.

Since its founding in 2013, SunAsia Energy, a national developer of renewable solar energy, has collaborated with numerous organizations to create solar projects, such as the 20 MWp Dagupan solar project in Pangasinan and the 60 MWp Toledo solar project in Cebu.

The Jollibee Group unveiled its Joy for Tomorrow Global Sustainability Agenda on March 16 of last year with the intention of reaffirming the organization’s dedication to ethical business practices.

Despite having made significant progress over the course of its 45-year history in a number of social and environmental projects, Jollibee Group is now deliberately integrating all of its sustainability initiatives into a more cohesive framework that unites the Jollibee Group community, including its employees, business partners, suppliers, vendors, and other stakeholders, toward a set of common sustainability goals.

With Joy for Tomorrow, Jollibee Group continues to uphold its commitment to its objective of giving the joy of eating to everyone, while also understanding that this mission extends beyond the current generation of customers and stakeholders. The business is aware that in order to contribute to a more sustainable future for people and the environment, it must make use of its worldwide scope, resources, and experience.  

“Our challenge in Jollibee Group is how to sustain our success while creating positive impact to our society and planet. As one of the fastest growing restaurant companies in the world, and with our vision to become one of top companies in our industry, we recognize that we have a significant role and responsibility in impacting positive change,” said Jollibee Group President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong.

The Joy for Tomorrow Sustainability Agenda centers on three pillars namely Food, People, and Planet. These pillars consist of 10 focus areas: Food Safety, Food Quality, Nutrition & Transparency, Employee Welfare, Farmers Livelihood, Community Support, Good Governance, Packaging & Recycling, Waste Reduction, and Energy & Water Efficiency. Each focus area sets goals and initiatives that contribute and align to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

According to Jollibee Group Chief Sustainability and Public Affairs Officer Pepot Miñana, Joy for Tomorrow serves as the company’s roadmap for achieving the triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit.

“It’s a call to action for everyone in Jollibee Group, amid the pursuit of our sustainability pillars of Food, People, and Planet. It is our commitment to future generations to preserve and improve natural resources from which they can benefit,” Miñana said.

Serving food that people trust

Jollibee Group prioritizes food safety and quality to maintain the trust of its customers worldwide.

In 2022, the company conducted over 15,000 Food, Service, and Cleanliness (FSC) Audits across its stores worldwide, while over 125,600 online training hours were devoted to Food, Service, Cleanliness & Condition. Moreover, 100% of its stores, commissaries, and logistics facilities have undergone rigorous Quality Management audits. The group also achieved a global Net Promoter Score of 82, exceeding industry benchmark of 50, showcasing customer satisfaction and loyalty for the various brands.

Helping make people’s lives better

Jollibee Group recognizes the invaluable role in fostering an inclusive work environment for its employees, partners, farmers, and communities.

In 2022, women made up 59% of management positions and 51% of the total workforce. Through training courses on Unconscious Bias, Inclusive Leadership, and Anti-Discrimination, the company educates its employees on the value and benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace. As a measure of high employee engagement, the group achieved the 70thpercentile of Gallup’s Q12 percentile ranking.

Outside of the organization, Jollibee Group Foundation’s Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) has enabled over 700 smallholder farmers across the Philippines to deliver their produce directly to Jollibee Group. Today, the white onions, green bell peppers, tomatoes, calamansi, ginger, and other vegetables that the company uses in Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Mang Inasal products come from FEP farmers.

Treating the planet responsibly

In terms of environmental sustainability, Jollibee Group focuses on the key areas of packaging and recycling, energy, water, and waste.

By the end of 2022, Jollibee Group manufacturing sites in the Philippines achieved 21% reduction in energy use ratio, 23% reduction in water use ratio, and 38% reduction of waste, with almost 50% of waste now being recycled versus the company’s 2020 benchmarks. On the store level, each solar panel installed reduces about 3-7% of consumption form the grid.

Progress over perfection

“We understand that assessing our impact is a continuous process of ambition and refinement. We will track the success of our strategies over the coming years, and periodically review our material topics and stakeholder engagement process. We will set agile goals and targets to help us significantly impact society and the environment in more meaningful ways,” Tanmantiong said.

To make sure that its business operations are in line with the sustainability goals, the Jollibee Group established an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Council in addition to creating a unit devoted to sustainability and adding a Chief Sustainability Officer to its Executive Team.

“Our Global Sustainability Agenda represents our belief system in conducting business more ethically. As a global food company, we are responsible and deliberate with our actions and their impact, and we are making our sustainability measures the way of the future,” added Miñana.

Visit https://jollibeegroup.com/sustainability/ to learn more about the sustainability agenda of the Jollibee Group.

The Jollibee Group continues to honor women by establishing a supportive workplace that enables its female employees to advance and grow all over the world.

Only one Philippine-based business, The Jollibee Group, made Forbes’ initial list of the World’s Top Female-Friendly Companies in 2021, highlighting the business’ commitment to empowering women and helping them reach their full potential. Women hold the majority of management roles at Jollibee Group in the Philippines.

Numerous female employees have climbed through the ranks and are now in leadership positions within their respective departments, including Cynthia Castro, as a testament to Jollibee Group’s consistent support for women.

As an accountant, Castro joined Jollibee in 1987. She received a promotion to accounting manager for the company’s new ventures after serving as accounting supervisor for the commissary of the company. Before being given the opportunity to advance to the post of Vice President and Finance Head, Castro oversaw the finances for the Jollibee Philippines branch in Northern Luzon.

“I can sum up my professional journey in two words: gratitude and pride,” she said. “Gratitude because they hired me as a fresh graduate in 1987 and they saw my potential to grow in the company, and pride because I work for one of the World’s Best Employers and get to work with the best leaders in the industry. All of this motivated me to do more, be more, and become more.”

In 2022, Castro was among the finalists for the WeQual Awards, which recognizes female leaders in business. She was the sole Filipina cited in the Award’s Asia Pacific-Finance Category.

Thriving in a male-dominated profession

Yoly Chua thrives as a leader in a traditionally male-dominated field: information technology. She is the Vice President and Head of Business Technology for the Jollibee Group’s business in the Philippines and Europe, Middle East and Asia (EMEAA).

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Chua was hired in 2016 to help stabilize SAP in the company and led the Information Management Enterprise Business Solutions team. After two years, she was promoted to Information Technology (IT) Head for the Philippine Region. In 2021, Chua was given the task of overseeing and governing EMEAA’s Business Technology function.

“I appreciate the growth opportunities I’ve had in my more than 6 years stay with the company. The values of the people I work with–their unwavering malasakitfor the company, the trust of the management and our teams, and the stewardship of doing what is best for the company inspire me to work harder and continue doing better,” she said.

Chua strongly believes women can shine in any industry or position given the right opportunity. “Women are empathetic and good listeners. Our instinct to protect, care and support our people makes it easier for us to lead effectively,” she said.

Driving culture and engagement

As the human resources manager for Jollibee Worldwide Services, Ruth Angeles started her employment with the Jollibee Group. Later, she was appointed the company’s Red Ribbon and Jollibee business units’ HR director.

Angeles, who is currently Vice President and in her 17th year with the organization, is in charge of the Regional HR Team in the Philippines. She oversees the Global Organization, Leadership and Culture Team at the same time.

Aside from driving culture and engagement in the company, Ruth has also been instrumental in enabling the successful pivot of the HR function and was key in the organization’s transformation, resulting in a much stronger and more resilient workforce post-pandemic. She has likewise been vital in developing and building leaders in boosting organizational capabilities.

“JFC has been helpful in my development as a people manager and HR leader. The company’s devotion to provide career advancement opportunities and inclusive leadership training allows women leaders and employees to excel in their development,” she said.

Castro, Chua, and Angeles are part of a thriving community of female leaders in the Jollibee Group who are helping drive the company’s mission and its journey towards its vision of becoming one of the top five restaurant companies in the world.

On April 22, 2023, SM Supermalls nationwide joined the rest of the world in celebrating Earth Day along with its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local government entities, partner schools, and organizations.

With the slogan “Invest In Our Planet, Invest In Our Youth,” SM Supermalls and SM Cares planned a number of events to educate kids and their families about the value of working together across different industries to protect the environment. 350 employee volunteers and 1700 kids participated in festivities that were timely and meaningful at SM malls across the country. Activities included sustainability tours, coloring, and children’s storytelling. The purpose of these activities was to inspire everyone in the family, especially the children, to appreciate and preserve Mother Earth.

Earth Day is an annual celebration led by the Earth Day Network that puts the spotlight on issues that are affecting the environment. First held in 1970, Earth Day was the result of a need for a unified response against various environmental problems like pollution and resource depletion. Today, the event is considered the biggest environmental movement in the world, with millions joining celebrations every year.

“At SM, every day is Earth Day. However, today we are reminded of our responsibility to protect the planet we live in. We believe that we must all come together and take the necessary steps against this climate crisis and accelerate a greener and more equitable future for everyone,” shared Ms. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and SM Cares Program Director for the Environment.

SM Supermalls featured the art of multi-awarded Filipino artist, sculptor and illustrator, Manuel Baldemor. His works depict the rich cultural aspects of the Philippines and can be found in multiple institutions worldwide. His drawings and Earth Day poem inspired the Earth Day program at SM, reflecting a long-time partnership on SM Cares programs for the environment, starting with his design of SM’s first eco bags in 2007. 

The storytelling activity featured a special Earth Day story based on Baldemor’s artworks. The story reflected simple ways children can participate in living sustainably on their own and with their families. Meanwhile, kids and kids-at-heart were welcomed at the coloring activity section. Participants were given art materials and a selection of Baldemor’s drawings to color in. Malls used recycled materials in designing the activity areas.

And to cap off the celebration, a sustainability tour was held wherein everyone participated in a guided tour to one or more of the mall’s eco-friendly facilities such as the EV charging stations, water recycling treatment plants, waste segregation bins, Plastic Waste Collection booths, E-waste Collection bins and various bicycle amenities.

To highlight the role of collaborating with the public sector in driving environmental programs forward, SM City Fairview hosted the DENR Gawad Taga-ilog Awards photo exhibit, which recognized winning local government units who are leading in protecting Metro Manila’s waterways. The agency also further provided 800 tree seedlings to participants and customers through a DENR Community Pan-TREE to encourage at SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM City Fairview, SM City Novaliches, SM City Marikina, SM City East Ortigas and SM Southmall.

The Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department also promoted the city’s Trash to Cashback program to encourage its citizens to be Eco Warriors and promote recycling.

The Earth Day celebration is just one of the numerous ways that SM is promoting sustainable living among Filipinos, and the company has other programs aimed at helping care for the environment. These are the Trash to Cash Recycling Market held every first Friday and Saturday of the month; daily water recycling systems, and environmental campaigns such as the Green Film Festival, Green Retail Agenda, and the International Coastal Cleanup Drive, just to name a few.

The corporate social responsibility division of SM Prime Holdings, known as SM Cares, is in charge of programs that advance sustainability and community growth. In addition to its activities on the environment, SM Cares also advocates for women and breastfeeding mothers, people with disabilities, senior citizens, children, and youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative.

Visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares for more details.