Blockchain aficionados, business pioneers, and inventors from all over the world attended the recently finished Crypto Expo Dubai, which took place on September 20–21, 2023, at the spectacular Festival Arena in Dubai Festival City. The conspicuous appearance of Doric Network, a platinum sponsor and the winner of the Best Blockchain Project award, was one of the event’s highlights.
Doric Network’s involvement in this occasion demonstrated its dedication to supporting innovation and excellence in the blockchain industry. The business received well-deserved distinction as the Best Blockchain Project at Crypto Expo Dubai 2023 for its powerful platform, which was created to offer a straightforward, safe, and user-friendly option for producing tokens.
“Doric Network is proud to have been a part of Crypto Expo Dubai 2023, and we are truly honored to receive the Best Blockchain Project award. This recognition reaffirms our dedication to empowering individuals and businesses in the blockchain ecosystem,” according to a team member of Doric Network. Doric Network’s platform is tailored to meet the demands of both novices and seasoned blockchain enthusiasts. Whether you’re a first-time token creator or a blockchain expert, Doric provides the tools you need to confidently manage your blockchain assets. The platform’s user-friendly interface simplifies the token creation process, ensuring that it is accessible to all.
What sets Doric Network apart is its foundation on its blockchain, employing the PoA (Proof of Authority) consensus algorithm. This architecture enables faster transactions and enhanced scalability within the network, addressing the critical challenges faced by many other blockchain platforms.
Doric Network demonstrated the revolutionary potential of its platform at Crypto Expo Dubai 2023, giving attendees a peek into the near future of blockchain technology. The startup was named the Best Blockchain Project after its creative approach to token production caught the attention of both event attendees and business experts.
Doric Network is committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions and helping the global blockchain community flourish at the forefront of the blockchain industry’s ongoing evolution. Their accomplishments at Crypto Expo Dubai 2023 are witness to their steadfast dedication to excellence.
Visit www.doric.network to learn more about Doric Network and its ground-breaking blockchain solutions.
The agreement was signed by officers of PRSP Education Committee & The Pod Network (seated L-R): PRSP Trustee Joe Zaldarriaga of Meralco, PRSP Trustee & Education Committee Chair Aye Ubaldo, PRSP President Harold Geronimo of Megaworld, The Pod Network CEO & Co-Founder Alan Fontanilla and TPN CFO John Philip Co. Also present were committee members (standing L-R): Abigail Mendoza of Meralco, Judy Villaroman-Aguilar of Evident Communications, Rudy Villar of TOG Integrated, Riza Myfel Del Rosario, Podcast Manager of TPN and Joselle Jamison, Head of Data of TPN.
The Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) signs partnership with The Pod Network (TPN) for the PRSP Education Committee Breaking Down the Buzz, a 12-episode PR Students and Young Professionals Congress Podcast Series. Previously a students’ congress, it has evolved into a podcast for academe and young professionals for this year. The partnership includes the development of evergreen and topic-based content for students and young practitioners to have access to continuous and experience-based learnings via easy access to a platform favored by its target audience. This is a pioneer event in the PR industry and for allied industries in using craft and technology for innovative and sustainable activations.
The Hotel and Foodservice Suppliers Show, formerly known as the Hotel Suppliers Show, will be held at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City on September 21–23 after a successful run of its Visayas and Mindanao editions last July in Cebu.
The main objective of the program is to act as a top venue for bringing together individuals and organizations from the hospitality and foodservice sectors. It will promote networking, provide a wide range of goods and services pertinent to various industries, and offer a venue for business executives in the field to learn about emerging trends, innovations, and possibilities. The ultimate objective is to encourage expansion, cooperation, and quality within the hotel and food service sectors.
Alongside its major rebrand is the expansion of its value architecture by partnering with Mayani, the country’s leading agri-fisheries platform working with farmers and fisherfolks, to underscore the event’s championing of the local agri-food sector and its large part in the supply chains of the hotel and foodservice industries.
“Partnering with Mayani and supporting the farm-to-table movement can yield several significant advantages for the event. It makes us more relevant to today’s industry trends and consumer preferences by showcasing products and services that cater to the growing demand for local, sustainable, and fresh food options,” says Patrick Lawrence Tan, Chief Executive Officer of Global Link MP, the event’s chief proponent and organizer.
Initially founded as an agri-ecommerce player with a supply base in Calabarzon focusing on lowland produce, Mayani now carries a multitude of agri-food categories linked to the broad supply chain requirements of hotel brands and restaurant chains: highland and lowland vegetables, grains, eggs, dairy, poultry, seasonal fruits, and sustainably-caught seafood.
It boosts crop and catch marketability of smallholder farmers and fisherfolks coming from different regions in Luzon, including communities in the fishing province of Palawan and highland crop growers of Northern Mindanao.
Tan points out that the involvement of Mayani can encourage networking and collaboration between suppliers, chefs, and restaurant owners – potentially leading to partnerships and new business opportunities within the farm-to-table ecosystem.
The tourist and hospitality industries are currently exhibiting remarkable recovery as a result of the removal of pandemic-related travel restrictions. The Philippine Statistics Authority estimates that the contribution of tourism direct gross value added to the nation’s gross domestic product will be 6.2%, or P1.38 trillion, in 2022, indicating the revival of the local economies in the vicinity of popular tourist destinations and the return of rising hotel occupancy rates.
According to Statista, the food service sector is seeing a growth trend, with revenues expected to reach $8.37 billion in 2021. These advances will be discussed in technical seminars and industry overview lectures at the Hotel and Foodservice Suppliers Show. Visitors can sign up without cost at event.hotelandfoodservicesuppliersshow.com
What they sowed, they reaped. Eight corporate foundations were recently honored for creating excellent CSR projects that had a beneficial effect on the communities they serve as part of the League of Corporate Foundations’ (4th) CSR Guild Awards.
Eight awards were presented in two major categories following a rigorous nomination, screening, and judging process by a panel of judges: seven Program Awards (Arts & Culture, Enterprise Development, Environment, Education, Health, Financial Inclusion, and Disaster Resilience) and one Collaboration Award, which recognized projects that involved two or more LCF members or partnerships.
The winners are Telus International Philippines Foundation for Oustanding CSR Project in Arts and Culture for their Art Weave: Artistic Textile Manipulation through Traditional Weaving Techniques program; Aboitiz Foundation for Outstanding CSR Project in Disaster Resilience for their Project Banca; Energy Development Corporation for Outstanding CSR Project in Education for their Honing nation-builders through KEITECHS’s values-based technical-vocational education program; Knowledge Channel Foundation for Outstanding CSR Project in Environment for their EcoProject: Kilos Kabataan para sa Kapaligiran; Pilipinas Shell Foundation for Outstanding CSR Project in Enterprise Development for their Palawan Eco Agro Park (PEAP) El Nido Food Terminal Project; BDO Foundation for Outstanding CSR Project in Financial Inclusion for their Fish N’ Learn: Securing the financial future of the Filipino Fishers program; Pfizer Philippines Foundation and Outstanding CSR Project in Health for their Pfizer Medical Drone Project: Last mile health service delivery; and Manila Water Foundation and One Meralco Foundation for Outstanding CSR Collaboration Project for their Light Up to WASHup! Beaming Forces for Good in the IPO Watershed.
The CSR Guild Awards is an annual recognition of outstanding CSR programs, collaborations, and other initiatives that have achieved sustainable impact upon the communities and institutions served.
The contribution of Honorable was also highlighted at the 4th CSR Guild Awards. The keynote presentation was given by Rex Gatchalian, Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and H.E. Finland’s ambassador to the Philippines, Juha Markus Pyykkö, addressed during the ceremony’s culmination.
The CSR Guild Awards were presented at the recent 2023 CSR Expo, which took place in conjunction with National CSR Week, which LCF is the lead organization for.
Pilipinas Shell Foundation and LCF both co-presented the Expo. Additionally supporting it are the Henry Sy Foundation, Felicidad T. Sy Foundation, SM Foundation, Aboitiz Foundation, BPI Foundation, Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, and Vivant Foundation.
Ribbon cutting ceremony at the opening of BEXCS West Quezon City branch
The opening of BEXCS Logistics Solutions Inc.’s newest flagship branch in Quezon City is announced with pride. This tactical choice represents an important milestone in the company’s ambitious plan to open 278 offices throughout the Philippines. I am also very delighted to know more about BEXCS, and how the business works and its relevance. Additionally, it is also near to my place so I can just easily inquire and I know a lot of people can have access to jobs because of BEXCS.
BEXCS Logistics Solutions Inc. founders Rodel Rubio and Marjorey Rubio Contract signing of Marjorey Rubio and Anna Magkawas, owner of the new BEXCS West Quezon City branch
BEXCS Logistics, which was established in 2019 and primarily serves the requirements of online sellers and suppliers, has quickly established itself as a major player in the logistics sector. The business is currently establishing itself as a pioneer in fifth party logistics in the Philippine market. Since its founding by the visionaries Rodel and Marjorey Rubio, the business has never wavered in its dedication to quality and client satisfaction, propelling it to the forefront of the industry. On September 13, 2023, the business debuted the newest member of its expanding family, the Anna Magkawas-owned West Quezon City branch.
BEXCS franchisee Anna Magkawas and BEXCS founder Marjorey Rubio
In addition to the expansion of its branch network, BEXCS Logistics is set to unveil major hubs in key regions across the country. With plans to introduce 3 Central Exchanges Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao along with 37 sorting facilities strategically positioned throughout the Philippines, the company envisions a network of over 1,300 branches that will blanket the entire archipelago.
Presently, BEXCS Logistics boasts an impressive portfolio of over 10 branches serving Luzon and Cebu, ensuring efficient logistical solutions for its valued clients. The company’s global reach has recently expanded further with the opening of offices in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Anna Magkawas at the new BEXCS West Quezon City branch
The BEXCS Ecosystem operates under three distinct business lines: BEXCS Franchise, BEXCS Logistics, and BEXCS Worldwide. These divisions offer a wide array of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses, including market research, digital marketing, sales channel management, and comprehensive legal and business compliance solutions and Franchise.
Moreover, BEXCS Logistics takes pride in offering world-class logistics solutions, including Express Delivery, Door-To-Door Delivery, International Shipping, Land/Air/Sea Cargo services, Warehouse Inventory and Management, and Dropshipping services. These offerings are a testament to the company’s commitment to providing holistic and efficient logistics support.
The Franchise Super Hub, is a multi-revenue stream business which aims to provide sustainability and scalability for the Filipino communities and aspiring business owners. The Super Hub is BEXCS’ frontstore which provides a wide array of services from Retail, Shipping to Warehousing. The BEXCS Franchise Super Hub is the first and only “Hybrid Social Commerce combined with Logistic Solutions” providing a seamless flow of transactions for live sellers. It is designed to provide employment and support to SMEs who are in need of a warehouse, live selling studio and supplies in order to provide for their families. Payment and money remittance is another source of income for the BEXCS’ franchisees as BEXCS partners with DA5 for the said ad hoc services.
She Bolisay of Absha Construction & Dev’t Inc., Anna Magkawas, Michelle Garcia-Arce of Storytellers, and Pinky Fabro of BEXCS Logistics Solutions Inc.
Even as BEXCS grows its business, it stays committed to its key principles of dependability, innovation, and client-centered service. The company’s journey has reached a turning point with the establishment of the new branch in West Quezon City, reflecting its dedication to assisting companies throughout the Philippines and abroad.
What happens when you combine a madiskarte housewife with a komedyante father who enjoys dad jokes, a gifted gamer, and a romantic of the digital era yearning for kilig?
Pamilya Kaya will be there to introduce you to the limitless and fascinating world of Globe At Home GFiber Prepaid. Pamilya Kaya exemplifies the Filipino diskarte in all of the family members and how they can make the most of any circumstance by working with what they have to produce amazing results.
Meet ‘wais na misis’ Neri Miranda, an actress and businesswoman who plays Mommy Kaya, first. She’s a hip mother who excels at finding the best online bargains and providing for the whole family’s requirements. As someone who enjoys exploring additional income streams, Mommy Kaya is prepared to astound everyone with her challenge: live-sell 299 products in seven days. The bet is on with fiber-fast internet from GFiber Prepaid!
Then there’s Daddy Kaya, played by the hilarious Teddy Corpuz, a singer, host, actor, and comedian. Lovable and relatable Daddy Kaya stays close to his wife and kids by watching the latest TV shows of their choosing. With GFiber Prepaid as a trusted buddy, he’s on a mission to upload 299 videos on social media and become an online sensation in a week. Will he be the next content king, or will he end up being the family’s biggest meme? Watch out for it!
And then there’s Kuya Kaya, represented by actor, model, and digital creator Raymond Mabute. Kuya Kaya dreams of becoming an eSports competitor one day, so he hustles constantly to get the latest games and equipment. As the family’s resident gamer, he’s determined to win 299 online matches in seven days. Will he rise to eSports stardom? With GFiber Prepaid’s reliable connectivity for gaming, it’s game on!
Last but not least is satire queen and content creator Lottie Bie as Ate Kaya. Sweet and charming, she feels ready to find love but not quite sure how to do that. So Ate Kaya is now on a digital quest for love, aiming to find the best matches in seven days. Will she find “the one”, or will she end up swiping left? With GFiber Prepaid’s seamless connectivity, her heart’s desires are just a click away.
Watch out for Pamilya Kaya as they embark on these epic challenges soon. If you can’t be there in person, don’t fret! regional livestreams will be popping up in key cities, so you won’t miss a beat.
“More than providing fast and consistent internet, GFiber Prepaid is also about the adventures, the laughs, the connections, and the endless possibilities it brings to every Filipino family. With Pamilya Kaya, we’re showing you how fun and limitless life can be para angat ang buong pamilya!” said Raymond Policarpio, Vice President of Globe at Home Broadband Business.
With fiber-fast internet available from GFiber Prepaid for just P299 for seven days, the Filipino family’s potential is unbounded. With no application or lock-up time, it is instantly accessible and offers prepaid pricing for limitless internet.
Are you prepared to embark on new digital journeys with Globe At Home GFiber Prepaid? Join together with Pamilya Kaya to create online marvels! Utilize the GlobeOne app to register for GFiber Prepaid. Kaya Mo Now, Gaya ng Pamilya Kaya!
Eloisa Bautista-Flores, owner of Kea International, began her partnership with Conrad Manila by consistently producing quality results.
One of the hotels managed by SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. is the Conrad Manila.
With years of experience in the hotel sector as a handicraft supplier, Bautista-Flores knew what had to be done to provide goods to SM Hotels. It is done to highlight their crafts’ superiority.
She said, “We were directed to Conrad Manila by buyers of baskets because we have been a long-time supplier to SM. The decision led to increased success for Kea International as well as the rural handicraft communities. From there, we exhibited our production capability. “
Since its founding in 2010, Kea has produced a variety of handmade goods for the home, such as storage containers, gift boxes, furniture, and woodcrafts.
“I supply Conrad Manila with leather-made guest amenities. This includes holders of notepads, TV remotes, and directories. These are being produced in our main warehouse in Batangas. We have in-house production that creates 100% handmade accessories. Everything is hand-sewn, hand-wrapped by skilled box makers in our province,” Bautista-Flores further shared.
Going beyond guest amenities, Kea also supplies Conrad Manila’s kitchen with pantry trays and wood boards. “For woodcraft like boards and trays, we have satellite factories in Tarlac where these are being produced,” she shared.
Her products’ presence at Conrad Manila also led to better and brighter things for her company: “While I was supplying Conrad Manila, I met one of the executives and he asked me to approach SM Store. We presented our Buri Hamper Set. This was the first item we sold to SM Store.”
Bautista-Flores further shared that from usually selling 100 sets, it grew to about 1,000 a year. In her journey with SM, she shared that there were a lot of learnings along the way.
“One thing I admire about SM is that they truly treasure the partnership, and I am proud to be one of their suppliers. They are with me every step of the way. I am just amazed at how systematic their operations are attending to thousands of suppliers. Being in the handicraft industry where low-income workers are thousands, orders from SM have brought good livelihood to the countryside,” she said.
The expansion of Bautista-Flores’ business coincides with the expansion of her team.
Amidst the elegance of Conrad Manila are wonderfully crafted handicrafts manufactured by employees that take joy in what they do. Forbes Travel Guide 2023 Star Awards, the world-renowned authority on quality in hospitality, has this year declared Conrad Manila a verified luxury hotel.
In areas where there is urban growth, coastal land reclamation is growing, will continue to increase, and is a common urban strategy.
According to a research titled “Mapping 21st Century Global Coastal Land Reclamation,” which examined landsat satellite pictures from 2000 to 2020 to quantify the spatial extent, magnitude, and land use of urban coastal reclamation in 135 cities throughout the world with populations greater than one million, the reclamation of urban coastal land has been occurring. Key data show that 253,000 hectares of new land, or the size of Luxembourg, have been created by reclamation in 78% of these cities in order to make more space.
The process of reclaiming land involves reclaiming seabed for new land. In areas with limited land and dense populations, it is frequently employed for a variety of purposes. Cities in these nations, ranging from Western Europe and West Africa to the Middle East, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, reclaim land for port extensions, residential and commercial development, and industrial use with the goal of generating tourist and green space. These towns want prominent place-making initiatives and improved international reputation for the next stage because key factors like global trade and growing urbanization are already pervasive.
“Coastal land reclamation is a forward-looking approach to urban development,” says Architect Ian Fulgar, the principal architect of Fulgar Architects. It allows cities to preserve valuable ecosystems and resources from urban sprawl by expanding spaces without encroaching on existing natural land. More importantly for architects, urban planners, and modern city dwellers, it presents an opportunity to have purpose-built urban environments specifically designed to meet their needs.
“Architects and urban planners can design sustainable and efficient infrastructure with a blank canvas, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices in urban planning. This approach can lead to more resilient and adaptive cities capable of mitigating the effects of climate change and other environmental challenges,” adds Architect Fulgar.
Cities that lead coastal land reclamation
Photo credit to Anastasia Yudin. An aerial shot of Flower Dome in Singapore.
Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong, says Architect Fulgar, are some of the world’s most notable cities with impressive urban reclamation projects. “Not only have they transformed their respective landscapes but also captured global attention,” he says.
Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are testaments to the city-state’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The former is a luxury integrated resort famed for transforming Singapore’s coastline and city skyline, whereas the latter is a spectacularly unique horticultural destination that combines art, science, and nature. These reclaimed land developments further boost the country’s international reputation and real estate value around the area.
For some parts of the United Arab Emirates, coastal land reclamation has significantly changed its geography. Dubai, which has completely transformed into an ultramodern city, features ambitious projects now known as some of the most recognizable developments in the world like Palm Jumeirah and The World. “They have reshaped the coastline and established the city as a leader in innovative development, significantly elevating Dubai’s real estate value and worldwide interest,” says Architect Fulgar.
Photo credit to Abid Bin Nazar. An aerial view of Palm Jumeirah.
Palm Jumeirah is an awe-inspiring artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree when viewed from above. It houses some of Dubai’s luxury hotels, residences, and entertainment venues. Likewise, The World is a groundbreaking project composed of small artificial islands in the shape of a world map.
Lastly, Hong Kong’s commitment to preserved art, culture, and ongoing sustainable urban development is exemplified by its West Kowloon Cultural District. It is a 40-hectare reclaimed site along Victoria Harbour’s waterfront designated as the city’s vibrant cultural quarter where the local arts scene can interact, develop, and collaborate throughout its sustainability principles.
Architect Fulgar, who firmly believes in creating spaces that foster belonging and unity, highlights that Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong share common denominators in their successful urban reclamation projects. These are innovative design and planning, focus on sustainability and commitment to cultural and societal development, and the subsequent increase in real estate value.
“These projects have created iconic and visually striking landscapes by pushing the boundaries of engineering and urban design. Sustainability is often at the forefront, integrating practices and technologies that minimize environmental impact and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors,” says Architect Fulgar on these cities’ commitment to sustainability atop function and aesthetics.
Best practices of coastal land reclamation
Despite recognition of world-class reclamation projects, one of their primary challenges is facing criticism and potential issues over sustainability concerns. Architect Fulgar shares that the solution is through the responsibility of vital stakeholders to adopt a collaborative approach and adaptive strategies in implementing best practices, such as prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience goals in waterfront developments.
“The future of city development, especially in coastal areas, rests with stakeholders prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience. By adopting a comprehensive, collaborative, and adaptable strategy, they can transform the design, construction, and management of waterfront development – ultimately creating more sustainable, resilient, and prospering urban environments that benefit both people and the environment,” adds Architect Fulgar.
Additionally, Architect Fulgar emphasizes the importance of a carefully thought-out project that starts with the developers’ in-depth investigation and analysis of the chosen place in regards to potential environmental repercussions, disaster risks, and local community needs. To lessen the development’s environmental impact, architects and engineers must incorporate sustainable design concepts and green and blue areas.
“Trends and insights on global reclamation illustrate the potential of reclamation projects in addressing various urban development, environmental conservation, and community well-being needs – leading to more sustainable and resilient urban planning worldwide. By adopting these lessons and focusing on sustainable growth, the Philippines can capitalize on its potential and carve a path to a brighter future.”
SCPW president Arch. Celestino Ulep leads a discussion on nature-based architecture during the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium. Photo from SCPW
The Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc. (SCPW) and SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) collaborated to host the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium on May 29 at the MAAX Building in the Mall of Asia Complex as part of the world’s celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity 2023.
The hybrid symposium’s topic was “Build Back Biodiversity: Wetland Centers and Nature-Based Architecture,” and its talks were all focused on raising awareness of wetland conservation and cutting-edge design techniques.
SCPW president Ar. Celestino Ulep leads the opening of the Wetland Center Design Symposium
SCPW president Ar. Celestino Ulep opened the symposium by sharing his optimism on how collaboration and embracing nature-based architecture can pave the way towards creating a future where wetlands thrive and biodiversity flourishes.
Notable experts in the field also graced the event, sharing their insights and experiences including Chris Rostron, the global manager of Wetland Link International, and Alex Hughes of Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust in London, UK. The guest speakers kicked off the discussion by sharing about the pivotal role of Wetland Centers as a tool for Communication, Capacity Building, Education, Participation, and Awareness (CEPA) in wetland conservation efforts.
Arch. Ulep, meanwhile, engaged the audience by introducing the concept of nature-based architecture, highlighting the importance of prioritizing sustainability and harmony in design by creating structures that seamlessly integrate with the natural environment.
Meanwhile, Arch. Aaron Lecciones, SCPW Special Projects Officer, made a detailed visual presentation on the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP) Design Team’s experience. He highlighted the challenges and triumphs of designing a wetland park, serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and architects.
Esteemed partners, including Ms. Rida Reyes Castillo of SM Prime, Dr. Arvin Diesmos of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Mr. Laudemir Salac of DENR-Region 3, and Arch. Gleo Raymundo of UAPSA graced the event to show their full support for this endeavor.
“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,” SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo said.
SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo
Castillo went on to say that SM Prime believes in the power of nurturing the younger generation’s passion to creating a sustainable future and that environmental protection and nature conservation are essential pillars of their sustainability strategy.
The symposium came to a close with an in-depth discussion of the regulations and requirements of the design competition, which was followed by an open forum and participant brainstorming. The symposium also signaled the start of the eagerly awaited 4th SCPW Wetland Center Design Competition, which aims to provide talented students in the building and design industries with a stage on which to demonstrate their abilities and creativity while inspiring them to address environmental problems with sustainable solutions.
DENR, SM Prime calls on cities to innovate and invest in water-saving technologies to avert water crisis
At the multi-stakeholder forum, “Towards a Greener Footprint”, in Iloilo City recently, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga shared solutions-focused guidelines to help the local government reduce carbon footprint, with emphasis on water conservation to address the looming water crisis and increase access to safe water and sanitation. From left to right: Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas, journalist Ces Drilon, Secretary Loyzaga, urban planning and landscape architect Paulo Alcazaren, United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) co-chair Michaela Rossette Santo-Tayag and SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Liza Silerio. Photo credits to Arnold Almacen/Iloilo City Office of the Mayor.
In an effort to mitigate the effects of climate change on the nation’s ecosystem, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the top developers of real estate in Southeast Asia, recently urged local public officials to invest in rainwater collection for recycling and impoundment as well as investigate new technologies like modular desalination and modular sewage treatment plants.
Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga recently shared solutions-focused guidelines to assist the local government reduce carbon footprint, with a focus on water conservation to address the impending water crisis and increase access to clean water and sanitation, at the multi-stakeholder forum “Towards a Greener Footprint” in Iloilo City.
“We need to invest in the appropriate engineering and infrastructure to deliver water from the source,” Secretary Loyzaga said. “We must avoid, if not reduce drastically, the extraction of groundwater which in low-lying coastal areas causes subsidence and increases flooding.”
“Rainwater catchments will not only provide additional supply for household use but will also help ensure the availability of surface water through the maintenance of watershed cover when impounded,” Secretary Loyzaga said.
Based on the latest report of the Philippine Statistics Authority, water abstracted for own use increased from 215.2 billion cubic meters (bcm) in 2020 to 217.8 bcm in 2021 countrywide. From 2010 to 2021, the largest amount of self-abstracted water is for the power sector (58.7%). This was followed by agriculture (33.5%); mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and construction (5.3%); and services sector and households (2.6%).
Earlier this month, the DENR said the country still has enough water supply, but proper management is needed to prevent a possible water crisis by the end of the year.
The call was met with a resounding response from the private sector, particularly, SM Prime. In the same forum, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza B. Silerio shared how SM Prime has stepped up the sustainability programs that it has been doing since SM Supermalls started recycling water in the 1990s.
In addition to developing a mall-based rainwater filtering technology that transforms collected rainwater into potable water fit for drinking, washing, and cleaning, SM Prime also pioneered the use of rainwater catchment to assist prevent floods in communities where its malls are situated. The facility, which was opened at SM City Baguio, would provide mall tenants with adequate drinkable water to assist decrease sourcing from the local water table.
“As an integrated property developer, we have seen the first-hand effects of natural hazards that are caused by the change in weather patterns in the Philippines,” Engr. Silerio explained. “El Nino and La Nina are two phenomena resulting from climate change. Our country ranks number one in the World Risk Index 2022 report as the most vulnerable among 193 nations.”
When faced with this difficulty, Engr. Silerio said that SM Prime will keep coming up with creative solutions to the environment problems. “We continue to evolve and adapt technology to improve our resource consumption as part of our climate action,” she said in conclusion.
