Lifestyle

Reference photo for the driven piles methodology, which protects against soil liquefaction and provides strength against earthquakes.

In all of its projects, SM Prime Holdings has demonstrated its dedication to using innovation and technology to improve community safety and disaster resilience through the 67-hectare SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, a landmark along Manila Bay.

Originally planned as a groundbreaking mixed-use project on reclaimed land by the Philippine government, it has grown to become a symbol of security and safety, realizing the goal of its founder, Henry Sy, Sr., who wanted to build “a destination that brings joy and opportunities to millions.”

Building resilient, sustainable spaces that put safety and community well-being first is crucial, according to Hans Sy, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman and co-chair of ARISE Philippines under the United Nations Office of Disaster Risk Resilience (UNDRR), who is carrying on his father’s vision.

“We believe that safety is the cornerstone of thriving communities,” Mr. Sy states. In affirmation of this belief, he stands as the first Filipino elected to the UNDRR ARISE Global Board.

Launched in 2015, ARISE Philippines is the country’s 157-member-strong premier private sector alliance united by a shared vision of a resilient and prosperous future. The organization, the first country network established by the UNDRR, aims to minimize disaster-related loss of life, ensure investments and assets are risk-informed, and build infrastructure capable of withstanding both natural and man-made hazards.

SM Prime’s commitment to resilience is evident in the very design of the MOA Complex, which incorporates cutting-edge disaster resilience features to protect against the unique challenges posed by its coastal location.

Before construction began, SM Prime engaged the expertise of Jan de Nul, a renowned Belgian coastal development company. Their extensive research and studies ensured the viability of the project, taking into account the complex interplay of land and sea. To create a resilient structure, the company conducted risk reviews in which the following components are incorporated: Identify, analyze, plan, mitigate, and monitor. This meticulous pre-engineering phase laid the groundwork for a structure, completed in 2006, that was capable of withstanding the test of time and nature.

One of the key challenges addressed was soil erosion. To combat this, the team implemented a sophisticated system of wick drains. These drains act as pathways for pore water in soft, compressible soil, effectively preventing erosion and ensuring the stability of the land. This technology, while more costly than traditional methods, provides a significantly higher degree of protection, particularly against liquefaction during seismic events.

The threat of ground liquefaction, a phenomenon where soil loses its strength and behaves like a liquid during earthquakes, was also mitigated through innovative foundation design. Driven and bored piles, combined with precise excavation methods, provide the complex with robust resistance against liquefaction and seismic activity.

To protect against storm surges, a common threat in coastal areas, the complex boasts a robust seawall. This seawall, standing 4.5 meters higher than the Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) mark, is further reinforced by a wave return feature. This inverted structure deflects high waves back towards the sea, minimizing their impact on the complex. A network of drainage channels further enhances flood prevention during storm surges.

These features were instrumental in protecting the complex during Typhoon Pedring (international name Nesat) in 2011, as well as in all succeeding severe weather disturbances this year, where the MOA Complex emerged largely unscathed while helping nearby areas avoid being inundated by prolonged deep flooding.

The wave return feature redirects water back into the bay, providing protection from high waves.

The Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex higher seawall and elevation prevent damage to the structure from rising sea levels. (Inset) In addition, the drainage channels along the MOA Complex are wide and deep enough to fit two buses side by side, helping prevent flooding from storm surges.

The complex’s resilience extends beyond its foundation. The main road and all structures are elevated significantly above the National Building Code requirements, further minimizing the risk of flooding. Buildings are equipped with Earthquake Recording Instruments (ERI) that monitor seismic activity and provide valuable data for disaster preparedness.

The structural integrity of the buildings themselves is also paramount. The roof deck, for instance, is designed to withstand substantial loads, ensuring it can serve as a safe refuge during emergencies. The exterior façade is concrete masonry walls with Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS), designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 270 kph and provide excellent insulation. This commitment to safety transforms SM Supermalls like the SM MOA into havens for the community during times of crisis.

Disaster resilience is a proactive approach that is ingrained in every aspect of SM Prime’s business operations, not just a reaction to possible threats. The business understands that investing in safety is an investment in the future, so it automatically devotes a sizable amount of its capital expenditure to disaster resilience research and development.

Its contributions to the nation’s economic development and the establishment of vibrant lifestyle destinations, as well as its steadfast dedication to safeguarding the lives and means of subsistence of the communities it serves, have contributed to SM Prime’s long standing reputation as a responsible real estate developer. The MOA Complex is a potent representation of this dedication and a ray of hope amidst the harshness of nature.

FUELING HOPE, ONE MEAL AT A TIME. SOLANE and Rise Against Hunger Philippines team up to bring warm, nutritious meals to communities in need.

SOLANE, the country’s leading LPG brand, is proud to announce its recent partnership with Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP). This collaboration is part of the company’s CSR initiatives, where they aim to provide nutritious lunch meals to underserved communities across the country.

FIGHT AGAINST HUNGER. Through this partnership, SOLANE provided 500 nutritious lunch meals to individuals in need within the Barangays 101,105,106,128 & 129 Zone 8 District 1 in Tondo, Manila, demonstrating their commitment to alleviating hunger.

“Solane has been very active in CSR activities since the start of our operations in the communities where we operate. From feeding programs that cater to our less fortunate brethren to imparting our expertise by providing safety trainings on the handling of LPG to the grassroot levels said Dennis Palomar, Public Affairs Officer, Isla Group Corporation.

ALL FOR ONE. Solane, Rise Against Hunger Philippines, ERDA Foundatio, Inc. and the local government of Barangay 106 in Tondo Manila collaborated to orient residents in the proper and safe use of LPG gas.

With regards to their partnership with RAHP, Solane has been a staunch supporter since the first quarter of 2024. The company has also donated free Solane LPG refill vouchers, and last November 15, Solane sponsored a mobile kitchen project that served as an extension of RAHP’s food banking program.

“Barangay 106 is located in Tondo, Manila, a very crowded community where fire incidents occur frequently, largely due to houses built with light materials. These factors make the community highly vulnerable to fire disasters. Through Solane’s CSR initiatives, residents participated in a learning session on the proper and safe use of LPG in their homes. This education equips them with the knowledge to prevent fire incidents caused by unsafe LPG usage, ultimately fostering a safer and more responsible community” said Arlene Castro, RAHP representative.

FOR THEIR PEACE OF MIND. A total of 250 parents attended Solane’s orientation on the safety of LPG.

Solane has been actively promoting the safety use of LPG, particularly by partnering with Local Government Units (LGU), because the company believes that beyond their quality products, there has to be a peace of mind to all their customers who are patronizing Solane LPG. And this is what it sets them apart from other brands in the industry.

“All of our CSR efforts are done hand in hand with LGUs. Local collaboration is key in coming up with relevant programs that is valued by the community similar to our Bgy 106 project also in collaboration with Rise Against Hunger” said Palomar. In the past, people approached LPG safety with indifference thinking all brands are the same. Thru the collective efforts of Solane, the communities, government agencies like BFP and DOE people now have increased awareness on LPG safety thru our product knowledge seminars in the barangays. It is a continuing education effort and has made Solane synonymous with safety, reliability and peace of mind”, added Palomar.

Aside from RAHP, the company’s recent CSR event in Tondo also included beneficiaries selected by Educational Research and Development Assistance (ERDA), Foundation, Inc.

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES. Solane will continue with their CSR efforts as they reach out to communities that will benefit from their orientation in learning the safe use of LPG.

“We are very fortunate that over 250 parents attended this worthwhile event where it teaches the members of our community on how to properly manage and use LPG gas to avoid accidents to happen” said Dolor Cardeno, Executive Director, ERDA Foundation, Inc. “Marami ang nakinabang sa ating event ngayon dahi lsa orientation na ibinigay ng Solane para sa utilization at taman gpaggamit ng LPG para sa kaligtasan ng bawat pamilya na gumagamit nito. Malaking bagay ito dahil ang mga magulang na kasama natin ngayon ay sila ang nagluluto ng pagkain. Ang mga bigay ninyongorientation ay magbibigay sa kanila ng sapat na kaalaman sa tamang paggamit ng LPG upang maiwasan ang mga aksidente tulad ng sunog”, added Cardeno

Safety, reliability and peace of mind are in our DNA and part of everything we do. We are strong advocates of safety and as such our CSRs are crafted around these principles. We do have regular CSR programs with partner communities/organizations to ensure sustainability and relevant social impact.

This partnership between SOLANE and Rise Against Hunger Philippines underscores the power of corporate social responsibility and the collective effort to address hunger and malnutrition in the country.

Rogie Royce Caradang was a college student with a dream and a global outlook prior to receiving the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship. After graduating, he was certain that he wanted to continue his education and learn as much as he could about science.

Making an impact in the scientific community was Rogie Royce’s greatest ambition. Additionally, he was looking for guidance before joining the Ajinomoto Foundation Scholarship Program. He applied and completed his postgraduate studies in Japan after realizing he was a good fit and a great achiever seeking to expand his horizons.

His time in Japan changed his life. However, Carandang was aware that his progress would only be as great as his willingness to put in the necessary effort. However, by studying overseas and obtaining a fresh perspective on his goals, he was able to make significant breakthroughs that could potentially result in the treatment of diseases like cancer.

Carandang started his Masteral Degree in Aquatic Natural Products Chemistry at the University of Tokyo in April 2013 and finished it in March 2016. He was able to publish his research in an international journal and parlayed his success into a position as a Postdoctoral Fellow at The University of Connecticut Health. His journey exemplifies the Ajinomoto Postgraduate Scholarship’s potential to create global impact while shaping professional and personal growth.

“This scholarship is not just financial support—it is a transformative opportunity to broaden your horizons, advance your career, and make a lasting impact in your field.” says the now world-renowned Research Fellow. Carandang attributes his success to hard-work, finding the right focus, and then taking that leap off a springboard into more than he had ever thought he could achieve.

Carandang’s international prominence was facilitated by the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship program. It is now his responsibility to demonstrate his abilities to the world. Those objectives now are far more ambitious than he could have ever dreamed of when he was a college student. As a scientist, all he could hope for was to see new problems, new answers, and new dreams throughout his post-graduate studies.

The Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship is a program designed to fund postgraduate studies at prestigious Japanese universities through cultural immersion. Deserving Filipino students wishing to pursue master’s degrees in engineering, chemistry, human nutrition, or food science and technology are supported by this scholarship. Applications for the 2026 cycle of grants are currently being accepted by the Program. To learn more, go to https://www.ajinomoto.com.ph/whats-new-archive/2026-ajinomoto-foundation-postgraduate-scholarship-grant/.

 Philippine Marketing Association, Asia Marketing Federation Highlight AI and Sustainability in Landmark Summit
 

The 4th World Marketing Forum and the 53rd National Marketing Conference, organized by the  Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) in partnership with the Asia Marketing Federation (AMF), brought together experts, innovators, and leaders in global marketing in Manila. The four-day summit, which took place from November 5 to 8, covered important subjects that will influence marketing in the future, such as sustainability, artificial intelligence, and next-generation consumer interaction tactics.

The gathering, which drew over 2,000 people, included representatives from 19 nations, including Bangladesh, Thailand, Indonesia, and Japan. It highlighted cooperation to address regional and global issues and highlighted Manila’s position as a center for regional thought leadership in marketing.

The summit began with an exclusive Ambassador’s Night at Casa Buenas, Newport World Resorts, where PMA President Kathy Mercado welcomed international delegates and set the stage for discussions on marketing’s evolving role in driving economic growth and innovation across Asia. The evening laid the groundwork for the insights and connections that would unfold over the next three days.

On November 6, the World Marketing Forum took center stage at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, capturing attention with a Star Wars-themed presentation. The forum featured global marketing luminaries, including Philip Kotler, who joined virtually to discuss strategies for resilience and adaptation in a rapidly changing business environment. AMF Founder Hermawan Kartajaya shared insights on emerging trends, while speakers from PwC , Nielsen, and StoryIQ explored the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and data-driven marketing in shaping consumer insights and engagement.

The National Marketing Conference,  held on November 7 under the theme “Marketing Wars 6.0 and Beyond,” brought the challenges of the modern marketing landscape into focus. Fine Hygienics CEO James Michael Lafferty stressed the importance of foundational marketing principles, urging marketers to prioritize storytelling and authenticity over fleeting digital trends. Entrepreneur RJ Ledesma shared strategies for building resilience in volatile markets, while a panel discussion led by executives from Chowking and CIBO Philippines examined strategies for connecting with Gen Z and Gen Alpha consumers.

Beyond the conference sessions, the summit also highlighted the Philippines’ cultural richness. Delegates participated in a Hop-On-Hop-Off tour of Manila organized by the Department of Tourism and capped the day with a gala night at Goldenberg Mansion. The event featured traditional Filipino performances and a tour of Malacañang Palace, offering international participants a glimpse into the country’s history and heritage.

The summit concluded on November 8 with the Asian Marketing Excellence Awards at the Hilton Grand Bar, recognizing outstanding achievements in marketing across the region. Thailand’s Minor Food Group was awarded the Marketing 3.0 Award, while Pyathai-Paolo Group was recognized as Marketing Company of the Year. Individual awards honored emerging talents and innovators, highlighting the diverse contributions shaping the future of marketing across Asia.

PMA Director Albet Buddahim underscored the relevance of the summit in addressing the challenges faced by marketers today. “This event tackled the wars marketers face—balancing generational shifts, navigating the explosion of digital platforms, and choosing which battles to prioritize. It provided tools and insights to navigate these complexities successfully,” he said.

PMA Executive Vice President Michelle Ballesteros emphasized the summit’s focus on sustainability and its role in fostering responsible marketing. “This gathering reinforces our commitment to marketing for good—advocating for strategies that not only drive business growth but also protect the planet and improve lives,” she said.

By addressing the most pressing issues in marketing, the 4th World Marketing Forum and the 53rd National Marketing Conference highlighted the growing influence of Asia in shaping the future of the industry. Through participation from marketing leaders, global companies, and cultural showcases, the event underscored Manila’s pivotal role as a hub for collaboration and innovation, providing actionable insights for marketers navigating rapidly shifting dynamics and setting a benchmark for industry events across the region.

The Asia Center for Small Business-Philippines (ACSB), the Chamber of Real Estate & Builders’ Associations, Inc. (CREBA), the Philippine Youth Entrepreneurs Association (PYEA), the AI Global Council, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – National Capital Region (PCCI-NCR), Global Compact Network Philippines (GCNP), the International Council for Small Business (ICSB), and the Malaysia Chamber of Commerce, Inc. are among the network of affiliated organizations that are supporting the event. (MCCI), Philippine Plastics Industry Association Inc. (PPIAI), Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP), and Out-of-Home Advertising Association of the Philippines (OHAAP).

The venue partner is Newport World Resorts, while the supporting partners are Katapult Digital, AQA Advertising, and Exlink Management & Marketing Services Corporation. The PR and communications partners included ZOE Broadcasting Network, Shoppertainment LIVE, Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, and Uniquecorn Strategies PR.