Her four-track release blends jazz pop sensibilities with soulful vocals and lush arrangements
Photo credits: Franco Maigue
Muri of The Ransom Collective has finally released her first EP, 11ème!
11ème, molded by her move and reconstruction experience, is a confessional artifact of Muri as a traveling person navigating personal development, grief, and revelation. The soulful pop EP transports listeners to her vibrant world, where she meets new people, travels to other cities, and embraces different cultures. However, songs created especially to express her thoughts of accepting things that aren’t meant to be and finding home in odd places are at the center of this exquisitely intricate undertaking.
“I’m excited to just share a little bit of my world with everyone,” the Paris-based artist admits. “It’s a concoction of stories, feelings, and languages. I want the music to simply be an exchange, a conversation. One of giving— letting people hear what the world has shown me; and receiving—connecting to people as they experience the music.”
Sonically speaking, Muri’s first EP brims with balmy and soulful tunes that are delivered with newfound ease and confidence. Here, both the storytelling and the musical backdrop take the center stage, allowing Muri to deliver prophetic notes that are subtle and tender, yet never calculated in its pursuit for attention or conversation.
Muri explains, “With my EP, I felt I really went off-track with what I thought I knew as my music style. I feel like this stage of mixed identity, living in multiple countries, gave me this gray area to try new things, challenge my assumptions about songwriting, and inject elements of my multiple worlds. It’s an indie-soul-pop album, infused with dreamy synths, spoken word, and snippets of multiple languages.”
Check out the track list:
1. Afternoon
2. Anywhere but here
3. Story
4. Rêve-toi
EP launch and AXEAN Festival 2024
On Sunday, September 22, Muri will release her new record, 11ème, at Sari-Sari Cocktails in Makati City. Her band The Ransom Collective will also reconvene for a special session, along with performances by some of her music colleagues, including Leanne & Naara, Kai del Rio, Jerms, and Billz. In contrast, Muri will perform the EP’s songs live with her backing band.
On September 28 and 29, 2024, Muri will also be the main attraction at the AXEAN Festival 2024 in Bali, Indonesia. The internationally recognized showcase festival has expanded to become a platform that showcases musical talents from Southeast Asia and beyond. It also offers a genuine face-to-face networking opportunity for artists and music industry professionals worldwide to connect.
The award-winning Filipino band will also be staging their 25th anniversary concert next month, featuring rarities and hits from their four-album catalog
The iconic music video for “La Bulaqueña,” which features Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo and compatriot Bulakenya, has finally been released by Filipino alternative pop group Orange & Lemons.
The music video, conceptualized and helmed by reliable partners Everywhere We Shoot, highlights the concurrent narratives of O&L and Manalo, demonstrating the profound ties and influence of a photograph from the turn of the century known as Una Bulaqueña on their shared geography.
The aforementioned masterwork, directed by Juan Luna y Novicio, features a subtle naturalness that portrays a Filipina from a privileged rural background—possibly from Bulacan. It is a great delight to be able to watch their newly released music video featuring our Ms. Universe Philippines Chelsea Manalo. It greatly portrays the missing piece of the puzzle, and everything from the visual up to the song really syncs to its right place. It was indeed a great production and a must-watch from them.
“The symbolic repetition of the painting deepens the narrative and signifies the theme,” Clem Castro, the lead vocalist and guitarist of seminal alternative rock outfit, Orange & Lemons, explains.
An unexpected collaboration
During her Miss Universe Philippines campaign, Chelsea Manalo’s team used “La Bulaqueña” as the background music for one of her concept photography, which mimics the subject of the Juan Luna painting. The posts from her team and fans eventually went viral on TikTok and other social media platforms, prompting the band to revive the idea of filming the song’s visual narrative, with Chelsea completing the missing piece of the puzzle.
Castro shares, “Working with Chelsea was a breeze. She was a natural behind the lens and a jolly individual. A true beauty queen, both inside and out.”
Aside from Manalo, the Moonlane Gardens act also collaborated with the National Museum of Fine Arts to turn their vision into a reality. As the first band to film a music video inside the museum, O&L were able to fulfill a dream project: mixing music, culture, arts, architecture, and pageantry in a contemporary setting and theme.
“Our team and label did a couple of inquiries, and the stars aligned,” Castro reveals. “We are grateful that the National Museum of Fine Arts decided to partner with us with this project.”
25th anniversary concert
Aside from the release of “La Bulaqueña” MV, Orange & Lemons recently announced their upcoming heafline show, aptly titled “Now & Then: Orange & Lemons 25th Anniversary Concert, happening on October 18, 2024, from 7 p.m. onwards. at the Metrotent Convention Center in Pasig City.
The award-winning four-piece band is slated to perform a three-hour set featuring some of their most notable songs—crowd pleasers, critical favorites, and rarities—from their generation-defining, four-album catalog.
The highly anticipated event aims to celebrate the band’s incredible journey from their indie beginnings (Love in the Land of Rubber Shoes and Dirty Ice Cream) to their mainstream success (Strike Whilst the Iron Is Hot), from their psychedelic era (Moonlane Gardens) to their Tagalog-flavored pivot (La Bulaqueña), all leading up to a discography that exudes with daring intimacy and ambition.
In an open letter posted two weeks ago, O&L expressed utmost appreciation to the fan’s unwavering support and passion for their music.
“Reaching this quarter-century milestone feels like a dream come true, and it’s a testament to the incredible community that surrounds us,” shares Clem Castro, the lead vocalist and guitarist of seminal pop-rock outfit, Orange & Lemons. Each chord we strummed, each lyric we penned, and every note we sang has been made richer by your enthusiasm and love. You’ve been with us through the highs and lows. From our beginnings as truggling artists, to our rise to fame, the heartaches of disbanding and a decade of quiet moments, the reformation and new releases. We couldn’t have done it without you.”
For this game-changing concert, the Lihim act also promises a diverse selection of songs from their wide-spanning discography that define different eras and stages of their career. “We normally play short sets on the big stage all over the country, leaving out most of our catalog in favor of more popular ones. For this concert, we want to bring to the big stage and perform live, if not all, a majority of songs from our past 4 albums. Expect us to perform and tell our story for over 3 hours!”
Along with the main performance, concertgoers can attend the Meet & Greet section, which offers them the opportunity to meet and greet the band as well as a special set of songs and covers that were omitted from the three-hour set.
Produced in association with GNN Entertainment Productions, Orange & Lemons and Lilystars Records present the “NOW AND THEN” 25th Anniversary Concert. JB Music, Marco Polo Hotel, David’s Salon, Fisherman’s Friend, Suit It Up Manila, Unknown13 Pub, and Welcome Home Café are the sponsors of this event.
Win an Avida condo unit, BYD EV, Gogoro Jego smart scooters, GCash credits, grocery shopping spree, and exciting gadgets
In the first draw last September 10, lucky winners took home grocery shopping spree vouchers at SM worth Php 120,000, powered by Share Treats as well as HUAWEI Pura 70 Pro smartphones, and other Huawei devices.
The excitement continued in the second draw on September 17 where 5x P100,000 GCash or Samsung S24+ smartphones, and other Samsung devices were given away.
The stakes get even higher in the third draw on September 24, where one lucky winner will get to drive home a brand-new BYD Dolphin EV, while two others will win one of 2 Gogoro Jego smart scooters.
The final draw, set on October 4, offers the most coveted prize yet: a one-bedroom Avida Astrea condominium unit or a luxury vacation for four at El Nido, Palawan.
Winners will be announced on Globe’s social media channels after each draw after a callout validation. So always keep your lines open as you might be the next G Raffle Rush winner!
How to Join:
Simply download the GlobeOne app, join the Globe Rewards program, and redeem raffle entries using your Globe Rewards points. Each Rewards point equals five raffle entries, and the more points redeemed, the more chances to win— up to 250 entries for just 50 Rewards points. For every redemption, you will also get a free discount voucher from our partners – Yellow Cab, Jamba Juice, Krispy Kreme, Grab, and Move It!
In addition to the online raffle, Globe is also hosting an interactive G Raffle Rush on-ground activation at the GDAY Mega Weekend happening on September 20 and 21, 2024, at BGC C1 (in front of Shake Shack). It will feature fun activities where customers can win prizes such as Angkas vouchers, gadgets, and additional raffle entries for G Raffle Rush.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to test-drive Gogoro Jego units, making the experience both engaging and immersive.
“G Raffle Rush exemplifies Globe’s dedication to making everyday moments special. This initiative reflects our commitment to not only recognize our loyal customers and show them our appreciation but also enhance the wider community through memorable experiences and exclusive rewards,” said Jerome Patalud, Head of Globe Rewards.
Avida Land, Huawei, Samsung, Gogoro, ShareTreats, GCash, Yellow Cab, Jamba Juice, Krispy Kreme, Grab, and Move It have all partnered to make G Raffle Rush possible.
Download the GlobeOne app from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or Huawei App Gallery to redeem Globe Rewards points and unlock these amazing prizes.
Residents of Brgy. Molobolo, together with representatives of the Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation, Inc. (AIDFI) and The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF), stand in front of the Agos Water Tank
In Brgy, Molobolo in Negros Occidental’s Municipality of Cauayan collecting water was a shared community duty as well as a household issue. In their area, there was a water source that required parents and kids to walk for thirty minutes and wait for at least two hours to fill their containers. However, this source did not always supply all of their daily needs.
Residents were required to conserve water wherever possible due to the water crisis, but even that wasn’t always enough. They struggled to locate water on a regular basis, and every night they went to bed hoping to find enough for the next day.
This was the reality for Brgy. Molobolo residents until 2021, when the Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation, Inc. (AIDFI) implemented a clean water access project with a financial grant from The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF).
How water started flowing in Brgy. Molobolo
For Brgy. Molobolo, AIDFI used a gravity-fed water system to bring water closer to residents. The project connected a pipeline from the elevated water source, allowing the water to flow down to shared tapstands within the community and helping eliminate the need for a half-hour walk and two-hour wait at the stream. Additionally, water filters are provided to households to block debris and prevent bacteria from passing through.
Access to water has brought comfort to the residents. No longer burdened by the physically demanding task of water collection, they can enjoy the safety and security of having water at their doorstep.
The availability of safe water has also positively impacted community programs, including feeding programs that improve residents’ health and nutrition. Convenient access to safe water reduces the health risks associated with collecting and consuming water from distant and potentially contaminated sources. This improvement in water accessibility has enhanced their quality of life and fostered a sense of community well-being and progress.
“Ngayon, sa bahay na lang kami naghihintay. May schedule pero sufficient talaga yung tubig. Hindi na kami mahirapan na [pumila] at pumunta sa malayo para mag-igib [ng tubig],” Myren Edoria, a resident of Brgy. Molobolo, said. (Now, we only wait in our home. There is a schedule, but this time the supply of water is sufficient. We don’t need to fall in line and go to faraway places just to collect water.)
From project beneficiaries to water stewards
The barangay captain of Brgy. Molobolo has advocated for their community to gain access to safe water. His dedication to securing water access and security for the community led him to apply for the Agos Project with TCCF and AIDFI in the first place. This initiative, aligning with the community’s urgent need for clean water, garnered immediate and enthusiastic support from the residents.
Inspired by their barangay captain’s leadership, the residents have transformed that passion into proactive stewardship, taking responsibility for protecting and managing their water resources to ensure the sustainability of the project’s benefits for future generations.
Brgy. Molobolo residents with representatives of the AIDFI and TCCF at the successful handover of the Agos Project
They formed an association and created a schedule system for everyone in the barangay to access clean water. They also coordinate with local partners to test and ensure the water’s safety. To secure their water source, they implement policies protecting it from potential threats.
Clean and safe water for future generations
The Coca-Cola Foundation, The Coca-Cola Company’s main philanthropic arm, invests in innovative concepts and organizations that tackle some of the most important global issues in an effort to support local and international changemakers making a quantifiable and long-lasting difference in communities all over the world.
Visit The Coca-Cola Foundation’s website and social media pages for additional details about its programs.
Early in the new year, Filipino singer-songwriter ACEL plans to establish her new life in the Netherlands.
In an official statement shared on social media, the former lead vocalist of Moonstar88 appreciated the endless opportunities that accompany embarking on a new path.
“I don’t intend this as a farewell, but rather as a fitting homage to the family, friends, and colleagues who have contributed to my journey over the years,” the pop-rock icon clarifies. “The baggage that comes with leaving reminds us of places, people, and memories that truly matter, even in the grand scheme of things. As I make space for new beginnings and experiences, part of my heart will surely long for the feeling of being completely home. This country has defined who I’ve become as a person and an artist.”
Following the announcement, ACEL extended an invitation to her friends, family, and fans to join her for a final performance in a major concert that GNN Entertainment Productions is co-producing.
Dubbed Being And Becoming, the farewell concert and album launch will serve as a gift to her friends, loved ones, fans, and colleagues who have become part of her life and career journey through ups and downs.
The One Love hitmaker explains, “The concert will present the new songs from my newest album release, Being And Becoming. For this concert, I’ll be very honest and vulnerable in sharing the things that I struggled with when I was younger, and the things I realized that helped me to be the person I am today.
This album is a result of the things I’ve processed from the past, coming to terms with how I see myself and knowing the truth of who I am and who I am meant to be.”
ACEL adds, “Now that my family and I have decided to move to the Netherlands, I want to take this opportunity to celebrate this gift of music that was entrusted to me, hoping that I would be able to encourage and empower those who will attend.”
In addition to the performances and unexpected visitors, ACEL’s next solo show will promote the causes of her non-profit organization, Right Start, which she founded with friends 14 years ago to give underprivileged children access to innovative child care.
The private performance will start at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 11, 2024, at the Teatrino Promenade in Greenhills, San Juan. You may purchase tickets for Being and Becoming at bit.ly/acelconcert.
Discover the latest local finds, immerse in digital innovations
Globe Business demonstrates its dedication to enabling entrepreneurs with the much-anticipated G Fair, a thrilling exhibition of the most recent local discoveries spanning a wide range of hobbies and passions. In addition to showcasing the best of Filipino craftsmanship, this lively pop-up market aims to increase B2B2C engagement by giving business owners a dynamic platform on which to build meaningful relationships with customers.
As part of Globe’s month-long G Day celebration, G Fair will be held at the BGC Amphitheater on September 20 and 21 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Here’s what is in store at the fair:
Art & Tech Fusion: Immerse yourself in a world where art and technology converge, as talented Filipino artists and entrepreneurs showcase their unique creations.
Curated Selection: From handcrafted fashion and accessories by Baybayin Bags, Habi Lifestyle, Sewn Sandals, X Label Store, HOF Plus, Trinkets, Yana’s Woven Textile, Veroni Star, MyMantra Jewelry, Love and Luna, and Gratia Manila to delectable treats from Batter & Bake, Baked By Morena, and W Bakehouse, G Fair offers something for everyone.
Home & Lifestyle: Enhance your living spaces with stylish and sustainable products from Lumi Candles.
Wellness & Beauty: Pamper yourself with natural and locally-sourced products from Arete Lifestyle, Russ & Rose and MAGWAI.
Coffee & Confections: Indulge in aromatic coffee blends from H Proper, Rustique Corners Coffee, 1C Coffee, SSPACE, and savor artisanal gelato from Araro Gelato.
“We’re holding this MSME bazaar as a gesture of appreciation for the continued trust our clients have placed in us. Through G Fair, we aim to give them an opportunity to present their products, expand their reach, and connect with new customers to grow their businesses. They will also get to immerse in the Globe Business Hub, where we feature digital solutions for their ever-evolving needs,” said KD Dizon, Head of Globe Business.
Globe Business Hub: Your Partner in Digital Transformation
Recognizing unique challenges faced by MSMEs, such as increasing customer reach and day-to-day manual processes, the hub will feature connectivity plans that cater to businesses of all sizes and needs for seamless business operations. Digital solutions will also be present on-ground. This includes Google AI, which enhances productivity; Prosperna, which is designed to help with merchants’ e-commerce site management; and various cybersecurity solutions, which aim to secure customer information and merchants’ data.
Exclusive Deals and Unforgettable Experiences
Merchant Hour: Enjoy special discounts and promotions throughout the day, making it the perfect time to shop for unique gifts or treat yourself.
Interactive Demonstrations: Witness firsthand the ingenuity behind the products and services on display, and gain valuable insights from passionate entrepreneurs.
Raffle: Participate in a raffle for a chance to win exciting prizes and take home a piece of the G Fair magic.
Prosperna Integration: Pre-order products from participating merchants for convenient pick-up at the fair, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience.
Visit G Fair to see the finest Filipino workmanship, and find out more by going to https://glbe.co/GFair2024.
SM City Baguio’s groundbreaking rainwater treatment facility has treated over 17,000 cubic meters of rainwater into drinkable water.
Through the July 2023 debut of its unique rainwater treatment plant (RTF), SM City Baguio is leading the way in water management. Since then, the plant has converted approximately 17,111.80 cubic meters of rainwater—enough to fill over 6,800 standard water tankers or seven Olympic-sized swimming pools—into drinkable water for the benefit of the SM mall’s tenants as well as for its own operations.
This project greatly improves the city’s water security and citizen safety by supplying the mall with additional water from the Baguio Water District. Situated in the mall’s lower floor, the RTF supplies thirty percent of the mall’s average monthly need for clean water for food preparation and consumption.
“There is a critical need for reliable and safe water sources,” said Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. “And SM City Baguio’s rainwater treatment facility is a commendable initiative that directly addresses this need. We hope that other private establishments can adopt similar projects for the efficient use of our water resources.”
The RTF utilizes a meticulous six-step treatment process, with equipment monitored and parameters checked in real time to ensure optimal performance. The processed water undergoes regular testing by the city’s accredited testing facility and consistently passes all water potability standards.
The rainwater treatment facility (RTF) of SM City Baguio utilizes a rigorous six-step treatment process with real-time monitoring, ensuring processed water always adheres to potability requirements.
“This facility is a testament to SM Prime Holdings’ commitment to sustainable operations and to the well-being of the communities we serve,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Supermalls’ Vice President and Sustainability and Resilience Head. “By maximizing rainwater harvesting and treatment, we are not only reducing our reliance on the city’s water supply but also contributing to a healthier and more resilient Baguio City.”
The impact of the RTF extends beyond the mall itself. With reduced reliance on the city’s water supply, water haulers have been able to service more households, particularly during periods of water scarcity experienced throughout the city.
The rainwater treatment plant of SM City Baguio is a prime example of how companies can contribute significantly to solving pressing community needs by using creative and sustainable solutions.
As it continues to create creative and sustainable lifestyle cities, SM Prime is dedicated to its position as an engine for economic growth, improving the lives of millions of people in the process. SM Prime is working to create sustainable cities of the future by exploring the next frontier in integrated property development.
SM Prime leads the way in sustainable development, integrating sustainability into its core business strategy.
Nowadays, sustainability is a key factor in all sectors of the economy. One of Asia’s top integrated property developers, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), elevates sustainability through a strategic framework that makes use of its broad operations, substantial economic impact, and cultural influence.
SM Prime embarked on its sustainability journey in the 1990s, driven by a determination to be resilient and pragmatic. The organization has always placed a higher importance on substance than style, choosing tactics based on practical application over glitzy, temporary solutions. Its approach is based on what matters most to the company and the community it serves, making sure that its sustainability initiatives are successful and long-lasting.
In its 2023 Annual Integrated Report, SM Prime introduced its Sustainability Ambition Roadmap with a clear and powerful message: Together for a sustainable future – aligned with its vision of creating and managing innovative, sustainable, and integrated property developments that enhance the quality of life for all.
SM Prime’s sustainability strategy is built on three main goals: (1) Environmental sustainability, (2) Prosperity for all, and (3) Climate resilience.
Building on its sustainability framework of Economy, People, Planet, and Community, SM Prime identified three major goals to pursue: Environmental sustainability, Prosperity for all, and Climate resilience – all aimed to create a future marked by sustainability, resilience, and widespread prosperity by 2030, 2040, and beyond.
Under its environmental sustainability strategy are two significant programs released by the company: Net Zero by 2040 and #SMWasteFreeFuture.
Net Zero by 2040
SM Prime is committed to enhancing people’s quality of life by intensifying climate action, reducing disaster risks, investing in resilient design, protecting biodiversity, and implementing strategic corporate social responsibility programs, with its main focus on climate action toward a net-zero business. The company has been collaborating with the World-Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature-Philippines to establish science-based targets in alignment with the global commitment of a net-zero ambition by 2050.
“We understand the magnitude of the challenges we face to achieve our Net-Zero commitment. SM Prime is determined to take action and meet its climate commitments. This is one of our top agendas in sustainability,” said Jeffrey C. Lim, SM Prime President and CEO.
SM City Santa Rosa’s solar photovoltaic (PV) system has 5,772 panels at 3.088 MWp capacity and has an annual solar energy production of up to 4.292GWh.
#SMWasteFreeFuture
SM Prime launched its vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture, in support of the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) International Day of Zero Waste. The program introduces a simple segregation scheme: Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC), all aimed at reducing overall waste generation and increasing the waste diversion rate from landfills through sustainable disposal methods. The initiative was launched nationwide for SM employees and across all SM property groups and stakeholders.
SM Prime continues to support existing programs and partnerships that promote better waste management solutions. Initiatives such as SM Supermalls’ Trash-to-Cash recycling market, Plastic Waste Collection and E-Waste Collection programs, and regular coastal and estero clean-up activities effectively engage the community in rethinking their relationship with waste.
To address food waste, SM Hotels and Convention Corporation (SMHCC) has pioneered projects such as The Sustainable Diner with WWF-PH, diverting 198,640 kg of food waste through bokashi composting and 40,013 kg through biodigesters. SMHCC also launched Tela Tales, a program that recycles condemned linens.
SM Prime gathers the community for a #SMWasteFreeFuture.
SM Development Corporation (SMDC) recently partnered with Globe and Scholars of Sustenance Philippines for the Hapag Movement, aimed at targeting food waste and involuntary hunger affecting millions of Filipinos. “As a community, we strongly believe in our ability tocontribute to solving today’s waste issues. We understand that this may seem like a daunting challenge to overcome. However, by joining forces, we can create a world that our future generations truly deserve – if we have the courage to take on this journey together,” said Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability champion.
Water stewardship
SM Prime is committed to water stewardship by implementing innovative water conservation and management practices, ensuring that properties developed are more responsive and adaptable to the changing needs of communities.
SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Filtration Facility addresses water security and ensures a safe and sufficient water supply for the operations of the mall and its tenants.
Through its sewage water treatment plants, wastewater is processed, preventing contaminated water from polluting local waterways and for reuse. The recycled water is utilized in malls for water closet flushing, air conditioning operations and landscape greening.
SM Prime Holdings, Inc.’s Chairman Henry T. Sy, Jr. receives SM Prime’s 30th Listing Anniversary Plaque from the Philippine Stock Exchange’s President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon.
Prosperity for all
The advancements of SM Prime drive socioeconomic growth and benefit all parties involved in a concrete way. Henry Sy founded the business, and it is still dedicated to realizing his goal of providing top-notch developments to the Philippines. A vision that is aptly demonstrated by the Mall of Asia Complex, which provides a model for future cities that adopt a comprehensive approach to urban development and go beyond commercial success.
On July 23, SM Prime commemorated the company’s 30 years of being publicly traded, marking three decades of dedication and revolutionary expansion in the Philippine real estate sector.
“True leadership is marked by a solid dedication to collective success. Our journey at SM Prime demonstrates the power of dreaming big and the incredible achievements that follow when you pursue those dreams with determination and hard work.” – JEFFREY C. LIM, SM PRIME PRESIDENT AND CEO
Taking place simultaneously on September 21 in 15 different SM Supermalls across the nation, including SM By the Bay at SM Mall of Asia Complex, SM Tuguegarao Downtown, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Bataan, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Olongapo Downtown, SM City Sorsogon, SM City Legazpi, SM Daet, SM City Puerto Princesa, SM City Roxas, SM City Cebu, SM City Seaside Cebu, SM City Mindpro, and SM City General Santos. The International Coastal Clean-Up (ICC) is back for another year, and it looks to be the biggest one yet. When we work together, we can significantly improve our seas and make the world a better, cleaner place for everyone.
In 2023, SM Cares recorded more than 100,000 kg of trash collected with the help of an estimated 17,000 total volunteers from 15 SM Supermalls nationwide. This year, in celebration of its 20th year of supporting communities and creating a positive impact on the environment, SM Cares aims to double the amount of solid waste collected to 200,000 kg, eyeing a volunteer count of 20,000.
If you’re interested in joining the global movement towards cleaner seas and oceans, SM Cares is inviting you to be part of this year’s ICC!
The corporate social responsibility division of SM Supermalls, SM Cares, is in charge of programs that advance community growth and sustainability. In addition to its environmental projects, SM Cares also advocates for women and breastfeeding mothers, people with disabilities, senior citizens, children and youth, and the Bike-Friendly SM initiative.
SM Supermalls have enhanced natural lighting and improved insulation, reducing energy needs for lighting, heating, and cooling, leading to more efficient and environmentally friendly operations.
The Philippines is prone to typhoons, as seen by recent catastrophic weather occurrences, especially as we approach typhoon season.
It is obvious that participating in the international discussion on reaching net zero emissions is essential as the country struggles with the possible fallout. The necessity for the Philippines to take a leading role in the battle against climate change has been brought to light by this storm, both to lessen its effects going forward and to help find global solutions.
The idea of “net zero” entails matching the quantity of greenhouse gases released into the environment with an equal amount extracted. Achieving net zero is a critical first step in improving climate resilience for the Philippines, a nation that is regularly targeted by extreme weather. The nation cannot afford to take a backseat in the international effort to tackle climate change, as demonstrated by the recent typhoon. Rather, it needs to take the lead in supporting and putting into practice policies that advance the global net zero goal.
One of the key areas where the Philippines can make a significant impact is by leveraging its abundant natural resources to transition to renewable energy sources. By increasing investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, the nation can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, thereby lowering its carbon footprint.
This transition is crucial for achieving net zero and offers the added benefit of creating a more resilient energy infrastructure less susceptible to disruptions caused by extreme weather.
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. recognizes the equal importance and urgency of both climate change adaptation and mitigation. As part of our strategy, we are investing 10% of our Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) in sustainability and disaster resilience design.
A significant initiative supporting this commitment is SM Prime’s pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. As the country’s leading integrated sustainable property developer, we have committed to the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), a recognized global standard for corporate decarbonization targets. This makes us one of the few corporations in the Philippines to do so. To ensure our near and long-term science-based targets for 2030 and 2040 align with the global commitment to achieve net zero by 2050, SM Prime collaborates with the World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF) through their Corporates for a Better Planet Initiative (CBPI) program.
Using solar panels or other renewable energy sources lowers the carbon footprint, leading to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and decreased reliance on non-renewable energy.
This ambitious target is supported by concrete actions, such as the installation of onsite solar panels across various properties and strategic partnerships for renewable energy sourcing.
These programs show that sustainable practices can be incorporated into regular business operations, not only lowering the company’s carbon footprint but also creating a model for other companies to follow.
This commitment puts climate action at the forefront as one of SM Prime’s sustainability agenda. It pledges to advance every person’s right to a better quality of life through increased climate action, disaster risk reduction, biodiversity protection, and our strategic corporate social responsibility programs.
