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Representatives from the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives, Vietnam, and the Solomon Islands — from government, academe, and NGOs — gathered in Iloilo City for the Asia Regional Large-Scale MPA Workshop, organized by ZSL Philippines with the Blue Nature Alliance and Big Ocean, to share insights and advance science-based, community-driven marine conservation. Photo from ZSL Philippines.

The Zoological Society of London-Philippines (ZSL), in collaboration with the Blue Nature Alliance (Alliance), and regional partners from the government, academia, and non-governmental organizations recently convened in Iloilo City for the Asia Regional Large-Scale Marine Protected Area (LSMPA) Workshop, which was held as the world races to protect 30% of its oceans by 2030. The purpose of the workshop was to discuss community-driven, science-based approaches to large-scale marine protection.

The two-day workshop brought together representatives from the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives, Vietnam, and the Solomon Islands to discuss opportunities and challenges in ocean protection at scale, from policy gaps and governance issues to climate impacts, illegal fishing, and transboundary protection. It was co-hosted by Big Ocean, a peer-learning network created by and for managers of large-scale marine areas, with technical and financial support from the Alliance, a global partnership aiming to conserve 18 million square kilometers of ocean.

“With the highest nearshore marine biodiversity in the world, Asia has long been at the forefront of coastal protection,” said Laure Katz, Executive Director of the Alliance. Building on this leadership, the workshop addressed the urgency to extend marine protection to areas beyond 12 nautical miles through advancing science-policy-community interrelationships, preparing the foundations for an Asia Regional LSMPA Community of Practice, and developing a roadmap for large-scale marine protection.

Advancing Regional Collaboration in Conservation

The workshop underscores  ZSL Philippines’ leadership in science-based conservation and demonstrates how multi-sector, multi-country collaboration, supported by BNA, can accelerate progress toward the 30×30 target.

The Alliance believes that partnership is key to advancing ocean conservation. “The Blue Nature Alliance is working with over 130 partners globally to advance ocean conservation in 5% of the world’s ocean as a significant contribution to the global 30×30 goal,” said Katz.

Representatives from the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives, Vietnam, and the Solomon Islands, including government officials, academics, and NGO members, gathered during the Asia Regional Large-Scale MPA Workshop at Courtyard by Marriott in Iloilo City to share insights and discuss science-based, community-driven strategies for large-scale marine conservation. Photo from ZSL Philippines.

Participants collectively agreed that the main pressures on Asia’s marine ecosystems are pollution and climate change, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, sea-level rise, and habitat destruction.

They also emphasized key recommendations, including aligning marine conservation with food security objectives, developing long-term and equitable financing mechanisms with government support, harmonizing ocean-related policies for easier adoption, and enhancing public participation in conservation. These efforts showcase Asia’s ingenuity in building a strong foundation for marine protection.

“The potential for Asia is huge. It can be a trailblazer, creating a ‘Big Ocean 2.0,’ leading the second wave of large-scale protection, and showing the world that fisheries, food security, and conservation can be addressed together,” said Naiʻa Lewis, Director of Big Ocean.

Philippine Rise: One of Asia’s Most Ambitious Conservation Efforts

The proposed Philippine Rise Ocean Conservation Area, implemented by ZSL, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Fisheries Management Area 1, and the Alliance, would span approximately 150,000 square kilometers or 7.5% of the Philippine waters, potentially making it Asia’s largest single marine protected area  protecting biodiversity while supporting long-term food security.

During the Asia Regional Large-Scale MPA Workshop held at Courtyard by Marriott in Iloilo City, Edwina Garchitorena, Country Director of ZSL Philippines, emphasized the shift toward large-scale marine protected areas, acknowledging the challenges from community understanding to governance alignment while committing to achieving meaningful impact. Photo from ZSL Philippines.

“The thinking around marine protected areas has long been at a much smaller scale,” said Edwina Garchitorena, Country Director of ZSL Philippines. “We know the challenges remain—from community understanding to governance alignment—but we also know the impact will be there. We are committed to helping make this shift happen.”

“The movement for large-scale protection with comprehensive solutions both nearshore and offshore has started in Asia with governments, particularly in the Philippines and Indonesia, taking bold steps in turning commitments into action,” added Katz.

Toward a Collective Path for Ocean Protection

The workshop demonstrated that, when based on science, policy, community involvement, and international cooperation, large-scale marine protection is becoming more and more possible. According to Katz, “the Asia Regional LSMPA Workshop is the beginning of a meaningful journey to inspire bold action for marine protection for the benefit of people and nature.”

In order to accomplish the worldwide 30×30 ocean preservation target, ZSL will continue to advance initiatives to enhance large-scale marine governance and organize collective action in collaboration with the Alliance, Big Ocean, and regional partners.

With a robust service pipeline and a renewed emphasis on innovation, integration, and nationwide connectivity, 2GO, the nation’s top logistics solutions provider, approaches 2026. In order to assist companies and customers in a market that is still growing, the company is stepping up its efforts in the areas of freight, rapid delivery, marine travel, and digital fulfillment.

Increased domestic consumption, improved infrastructure, and internet commerce have all contributed to the strong expansion of the Philippine logistics business. The logistics sector reached an estimated USD 55.65 billion in 2024, and as investments in digital services and transportation networks increase, it is expected to rise at a rate of almost 6% per year until 2030.

Online commerce is becoming a major force shaping logistics demand. The Philippines e-commerce sector is expected to surpass USD 28 billion in 2025 with strong double-digit annual growth as more consumers shop online and sellers scale digitally. These trends are driving significant need for reliable fulfilment, tracking, and delivery services across the country’s thousands of islands.

“Our outlook for 2026 is anchored on building smarter and more responsive logistics solutions that support economic activity where it matters most,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and CEO of 2GO Group Inc. “As the Philippine economy grows, logistics becomes even more essential. Our role is to ensure goods, services, and people move reliably and efficiently across the country.”

Strengthening logistics to support growth

E-commerce remains a key growth driver for logistics in the Philippines. In response, 2GO continues to expand its express and e-commerce fulfilment capabilities with nationwide pickup, sorting, and last-mile delivery supported by digital tracking and integrated platforms. These services help businesses of all sizes reach customers faster and with greater confidence.

Beyond last-mile delivery, 2GO’s freight forwarding and special container solutions support industries with secure, temperature-controlled, and customized cargo handling requirements. These services are vital for manufacturers, agribusinesses, and exporters navigating both inter-island and international trade flows.

2GO’s sea-based logistics and ROPAX operations further strengthen its multimodal capabilities. Through sea travel and rolling cargo services, the company connects major and secondary ports, enabling the movement of passengers alongside essential goods. Recent investments in port infrastructure, including expanded passenger terminals, support stronger connectivity between Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao and reflect the continued growth of inter-island mobility and commerce.

Integrated solutions for a dynamic market

As customer expectations evolve, 2GO continues to deliver integrated logistics solutions that unite land, air and sea into a connected and visible supply chain. Investments in operational efficiency, asset utilization, and customer-focused services are central to the company’s strategy for 2026.

“Growth today requires flexibility and integration,” DyBuncio added. “Our priority is to make logistics simpler for our customers by offering solutions that are reliable, scalable, and aligned with their specific needs, whether they are SMEs, large enterprises, or online sellers.”

Contributing to national development

Logistics remains a critical driver of economic resilience and inclusive growth in the Philippines. By improving seamless cargo movement, reducing handovers through point-to-point logistics solutions, and strengthening inter-island connectivity, 2GO helps keep trade costs reasonable and expands market access for businesses nationwide.

As the business approaches 2026, 2GO reiterates its dedication to bolstering the nation’s economic development through dependable logistics, ongoing service enhancement, and investments that promote commerce and mobility.

“With the right infrastructure, partnerships, and people, logistics becomes a catalyst for national progress,” DyBuncio said. “That is the role 2GO will continue to play in the years ahead.”

Go to www.2go.com.ph to find out more about 2GO and its offerings.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com.

The Alcantara Group’s second and third generations standing side by side, symbolizing the continuity of leadership and the shared commitment to carrying the company’s mission forward.

The Alcantara Group commemorated its 70th anniversary with a historic event that looked to the future while paying tribute to its rich history. Held on December 4, 2025, at the Dusit Thani Residence in Davao, the event honored the founder’s enduring vision and the Group’s legacy of service, innovation, and nation-building by bringing together generations of leaders, employees, partners, and friends under the theme “Seventy Years Strong: Forward Together.”

Conrado Alcantara and Sons, Inc. (CASI), a Davao-based business in the mid-1950s, evolved into one of the nation’s most diverse Filipino-owned conglomerates. The celebration, which took place in Davao, where the company’s history started, included a well planned display and program. The event honored Conrado Alcantara, the organization’s founder, as well as the leadership of the second-generation principals who grew the company’s presence in important industries, such as real estate development through Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), energy through the Alsons Power Unit, and aquaculture and agriculture through the Alsons Agribusiness Unit.

Guests were welcomed by a specially curated anniversary exhibit that paid tribute to the founders and the leaders of the Alcantara group, showcasing the Group’s seven-decade journey—from its beginnings in Davao to its growth into one of the country’s most diversified Filipino-owned conglomerates

The anniversary program also paid tribute to the collective efforts of employees, partners, and communities that have shaped the enterprise’s growth. Stories of collaboration and service underscore how shared values across the Alcantara Group’s business units have enabled their continued relevance and resilience amid changing landscapes and milestones across decades.

“We owe this milestone to the men and women across generations who helped shape the Alcantara Group into what it is today. What has kept us strong is not just strategy alone, but the spirit of unity and service that has guided us since the beginning—growth that uplifts both people and communities,” said Nicasio I. Alcantara, Chairman of Alcantara Group.

Alcantara Group Chairman Nicasio I. Alcantara led the commemorative toast, while Vice Chair Editha I. Alcantara delivered a heartfelt message that honored the generations of employees, partners, and communities who helped shape the Alcantara Group’s 70-year legacy.

Continuing the Group’s 70-year Legacy

With the third generation of Alcantaras poised to take the lead, the Alcantara Group’s subsidiaries, including Alsons Dev, are carrying forward its mission with renewed purpose.

As the Group’s real estate arm, Alsons Dev plays a central role in shaping communities that reflect the founder’s foresight for Mindanao, translating the company’s values of stewardship into meaningful developments on the ground.

“As we look to the future, we do so with renewed purpose—to sustain what has been built and to keep growing it with the same vision, integrity, and care that defined the generations before us,” said Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, President and CEO of Alsons Dev. “We will continue to build responsibly, create long-term value, and drive progress for generations to come.”

Third-generation leader Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, Alsons Dev President & CEO, shared reflections on the Group’s legacy and renewed direction as the company enters its next chapter.

The corporation is dedicated to growing its diverse companies and promoting industries that support long-term development, building on seven decades of achievement. The Alcantara Group looks to the future with determination, focusing on creating possibilities, supporting sustainable growth, and having a lasting impact on future generations. It is guided by the ideas that formed its early years and inspired by the generations that have carried its purpose forward.

Please visit http://www.alcantaragroup.com for further details.

While I was quietly sipping my morning coffee in a cozy place somewhere in Ortigas, someone leaned over and mentioned the latest news from the country club in Metro Manila—and I was stunned as I listened to what she had to say.

A growing number of members at a prominent country club are now backing a formal petition demanding greater openness and accountability from the club’s leadership.

Documents currently circulating among members show that a concerned group is urging the board to hold an extraordinary general meeting before the end of the year. The proposed agenda outlines several governance and operational matters that, according to the petition, need urgent explanation.

The petition outlines more than 20 specific questions directed at senior leadership. Many of these focus on governance practices, including whether certain decisions—particularly those involving senior management—were properly authorized by the board. One issue drawing heightened attention is the reported suspension of the club’s operations head, which has sparked calls for clarity on due process and executive authority.

The members leading the effort maintain that their actions are procedural, aimed at protecting the club’s integrity and strengthening proper governance. They reaffirm a core belief that the club “belongs to its members,” and that transparency is “non-negotiable.”

While the board has yet to issue an official response, a meeting has been set for December 20 to address the situation. Members hope the discussion will bring clarity and help restore trust within the community.

From left to right: Rona May Cadelino (Associate, CSR) Sharlene Mae Tabañar (Manager, Administration) Jackson Digno (Senior Manager, Human Resources) Marivic Acuyong (Manager, CSR) Francis Miel Dilig (Associate, CSR)

Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions company in the Asia-Pacific region, was recently recognized at the prestigious AmCham Philippines 2025 Corporate Social Impact (CSI) Awards. The company, through its entity, Helios Solar Energy Corp. (HSEC), was honored with the Bronze Award in the highly competitive Community Impact & Civic Engagement category for its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Program.

Presented by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines in partnership with the U.S. Embassy, this award underscores Vena Energy’s strong belief that its role extends beyond clean energy production to encompass holistic sustainable development within its host communities.

The Impact of Clean Water and Sanitation in Cadiz City

Implemented in partnership with the Cadiz City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the City Health Office (CHO), the WASH Program directly addresses the pressing public health issue of insufficient hygiene and sanitation infrastructure in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental.

The WASH Program highlights Vena Energy’s strategic focus on investing in essential community welfare and infrastructure and is aligned with the company’s CSR focus on Community Well-being and Infrastructure Development, directly supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

By addressing fundamental needs such as clean water and hygiene, Vena Energy shows its firm commitment to ensuring a healthy and resilient environment where its projects operate.

Cadiz City Municipal Mayor Salvador Escalante, Jr., applauded the efforts, stating, “HSEC’s generosity and commitment to creating a better future for children through the City’s Early Childhood Care Development Program are deeply appreciated, and our CSR partnership is making a significant difference and positive impact in our municipality”.

A Legacy of Local Partnership in the Philippines

This recognition reflects Vena Energy’s long-standing dedication to accelerating the energy transition and advancing green solutions in the Philippines. Its success is anchored by strong, collaborative relationships with Local Government Units (LGUs) and host communities across the country.

“Vena Energy is deeply honored to receive this award, which validates our team’s hard work and commitment to our Filipino host communities,” said Samrinder Nehria, Head of The Philippines. “As we continue to develop clean energy infrastructure to meet the national goal of 35% renewable energy share by 2030, we remain focused on our shared responsibility: building a workplace where our people feel empowered and investing in meaningful programs that advance the well-being of our community partners.”

Vena Energy’s staunch commitment to integrating internationally recognized Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards into its strategy, ensures that it will continue to grow alongside the Philippines toward a cleaner and more prosperous future.

For more information, please visit www.venagroup.com.

For more information, please visit www.venaenergy.com, or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram.

To provide “The Gift of Protection” to thousands of daily commuters throughout December Malayan Insurance Co., Inc. (MICO), one of the country’s leading non-life insurance providers, has partnered with LRT-1 to power a month-long holiday campaign.

This initiative offers complimentary Personal Accident (PA) insurance coverage to LRT-1 commuters throughout the entire month of December. The initiative, dubbed “The Gift of Protection,” aims to provide peace of mind to thousands of Filipino commuters during the busiest travel season of the year, when millions rush through Metro Manila’s railways for holiday shopping, year-end gatherings, and trips to provincial bus terminals for the Christmas break.

“December is the most hectic time for Filipino commuters—carrying gifts, rushing to catch buses home, navigating crowded stations,” said Eden Tesoro, Chief Operating Officer of Malayan Insurance. “We wanted to cut through the holiday chaos with a meaningful gesture that reminds Filipinos that protection isn’t an expense—it’s a gift, and one we’re honored to give this Christmas season.”

The campaign features a full station takeover at LRT-1’s Gil Puyat Station, a key transit point for commuters heading to Makati’s business districts and nearby provincial bus terminals. A fully-wrapped LRT-1 train will also traverse the line throughout December, spreading the message of safety and protection across the metro.

Commuters can avail of the complimentary PA insurance coverage by simply scanning QR codes displayed throughout Gil Puyat Station and on the branded train. The seamless digital process requires only basic information—name and mobile number—and issues a digital policy certificate instantly.

“This partnership with LRT-1 allows us to meet Filipinos where they are, literally,” Tesoro added. “We want to bring protection to the forefront during a time they need it most; that’s what future-proofing protection means to us.”

The campaign reflects Malayan Insurance’s broader commitment to making insurance more accessible and relevant to everyday Filipinos, shifting the perception of insurance from a burdensome expense to a caring investment in one’s safety and future.

The “Gift of Protection” campaign runs through the whol

In a world where technology continuously influences how people live, learn, and connect, one question remains urgent: how do we keep education human?

Rex Education placed that question at the heart of this year’s Annual Educators’ Congress (AECON 2025): Special Edition on Education 5.0, held on October 23 and 24, at the Gallio Events Hall in Parañaque City. With the theme “Agentive, Ethical, Connected, Open, and Nurturing,” the congress gathered school leaders, teachers, and education advocates from across the country for 2 days of reflective conversations and practical exchanges focused on putting people at the center of learning.

Reclaiming the Heart of Education

While Education 4.0 was driven by innovation and digital transformation, Education 5.0 calls for balance. It seeks to place humanity back at the core of learning, embracing technology with care, empathy, and purpose.

In his opening remarks, Rex Education CEO Don Timothy Buhain shared a heartfelt reflection on AECON’s significance and the deeper meaning of Education 5.0, emphasizing that “education has always been, and will always be, about people.” He explained that Education 5.0 is to make sure that as we move forward, we never forget the human being at the center of it all. “Technology will always be a means and a tool, but people will always be the purpose,” he emphasized.

What Education 5.0 means for REX

This year’s theme—Agentive, Ethical, Connected, Open, and Nurturing—defines REX’s vision for Education 5.0. Each word carries a practical and moral commitment.

Being Agentive is about being self-directed and purposeful; also being involved and capable of taking action. Meanwhile, being Ethical concerns choices guided by our values, having integrity, compassion, and moral discernment. Being Connected points to the relationships that make learning possible—with schools, families, and communities. Moreover, being Open stands for inclusivity, accessibility, and transparency. Nurturing brings all these elements together. It calls for learning environments that support the whole person—intellect, emotion, and spirit—so learners can grow with confidence and succeed in life.

Highlights of AECON 2025

The first day of AECON featured an interactive Pre-Conference Session led by Dr. Edizon A. Fermin, Vice President for Academic Affairs at the National Teachers College. Through hands-on activities and reflective exercises, participants explored three key tenets: Institutionalizing Less is More, Opening Pathways and Doorways, and Investing in Immersion, gaining practical tools to help build a stronger, more future-ready Senior High School program.

The main conference on October 24 opened with the Learner Panel Spotlight, “Kami Naman Talaga Sana,” and the keynote address, “Reclaiming Humanity in Education 5.0,” by Rev. Fr. Jessel “JBoy” M. Gonzales, SJ of Ateneo de Davao University.

Two pannel discussions followed. The first panel, “Beyond Lifelong Learning: Content, Methodology, & Assessment that Matter,” featured esteemed education leaders Dr. Marlene Ferido, Dr. Violeta Valladolid, and Dr. Brando “ER” C. Palomar, moderated by Ms. Rita Atienza of the Ateneo de Manila University.

The second panel, “Of Numbers and Narratives: Quality Schools that Promote IDEAS (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access, Sustainability) In Focus,” featured Dr. Malcolm S. Garma and Ms. Maria Louella M. Tampinco. The session was moderated by Mr. Narcy Ador Dionisio, Executive Director of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines.

The day’s sessions concluded with a synthesis led by Dr. Edizon A. Fermin, bringing together key insights and reflections from the discussions.

A Shared Hope for the Future

Across two inspiring days, AECON 2025 became a space where educators rediscovered the heart of their work. Through

meaningful discussions and heartfelt exchanges, participants were reminded that the future of learning begins not with technology, but with people—those who teach, those who learn, and those who dare to make education better for all.

As the conference came to a close, Rex Education reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing every Filipino learner and supporting teachers and school leaders through relevant, future-ready, and deeply human learning solutions.

Because in the end, Education 5.0 is not only about adapting to the future—it’s about creating one led by heart, humanity, and purpose.

Entrepreneurs and partners gather at the MSME Summit 2025 hosted by Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines in partnership with SM Supermalls at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia.

Entrepreneurs, business executives, and important stakeholders were invited to the MSME Summit 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall by Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines in collaboration with SM Supermalls. The occasion demonstrated Jobstreet and SM Supermalls’ joint dedication to empowering Filipino MSMEs and promoting sustainable growth for the country’s core industries. Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, underscored the summit’s goal: promoting MSMEs as a driving force of the Philippine economy.

“SM aims to be a partner in every MSME’s success story.” Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls, reinforces SM’s commitment to supporting Filipino entrepreneurs as he delivers the inspirational message and accepts a Plaque of Appreciation from Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK, during the MSME Summit held at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, on November 25, 2025.

Pasay City, November 12, 2025 — Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, in partnership with SM Supermalls, welcomed entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to the MSME Summit 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. The event showcased the shared commitment of Jobstreet and SM Supermalls to empower Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and foster sustainable growth for the nation’s backbone industries. Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, highlighted the summit’s goal: supporting MSMEs as a driving force of the Philippine economy.

“SM is not just a venue—it’s a partner in every MSME’s success story,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls. “When MSMEs grow, the nation grows. Every small business that thrives represents a dream realized, a livelihood sustained, and a community strengthened.” SM’s own growth story mirrors that of its MSME partners. From a small shoe store in Carriedo to 88 malls nationwide, SM understands the value of small beginnings. “Almost 70% of our tenants are MSMEs—their success is the foundation of SM’s continued growth,” San Agustin added. Through the SM for MSMEs program, the company provides high-foot-traffic spaces, market access, and visibility to help entrepreneurs scale sustainably.

Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College accepts her Plaque of Appreciation from Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet (right) by Seek Country Marketing head.

Key sessions addressed practical needs for MSMEs. Participants learned how to scale their first hire with Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet, explored AI applications for small businesses with Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College, and received insights on logistics and operations from Lalamove PH, 2GO Travel, and DITO BizBayan. Ms. Life Dawn Cervero of TikTok guided attendees on smart marketing on a budget, while a panel from BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo, and Asialink shared finance hacks for sustainable growth.

Industry experts Ms.Flor Tanay of Lalamove PH, Mr. Francis John Cha of 2GO Travel, and Mr. Gabriel Cui of DITO of BizBayan present logistics and digital solutions designed to help MSMEs scale.

MSME Summit 2025 partners BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo and Asialink host a panel learning session tackling finance hacks for MSMEs

Participants were motivated by real-life examples of growing Filipino enterprises, such as Kay & Karl Santos of 1919 Chocolate. The Partner Passport Challenge and partner demonstrations strengthened learning, networking, and hands-on involvement.

Attendees make their rounds at the Partner Passport Challenge, visiting different booths to learn about hiring solutions, business tools, digital platforms, and partner services that support MSME growth.

The MSME Summit 2025 reiterated SM Supermalls’ dedication to Filipino entrepreneurship by offering partnerships, initiatives, and venues that support MSMEs in their efforts to grow, innovate, and prosper in a quickly changing economy.

The 2MWp rooftop solar photovoltaic system installed at MOA Square—developed with TotalEnergies—generates approximately 3,000 MWh of clean energy annually, reducing an estimated 1,430 tons of CO₂ emissions each year.

The push to concentrate on long-term solutions for the planet’s climate issues comes at a crucial juncture, with the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) taking place in Belem, Brazil, in November.

This means that for SM Prime Holdings, Inc., achieving Net Zero by 2040 will become more than just a uniting force throughout its portfolio; it will also serve as a target for improved implementation, solid alliances, and group resilience.

Empowered partnerships

The “energy trilemma” refers to the difficulties that enterprises currently face: security, affordability, and sustainability. It is particularly pertinent to the future of urban resilience and real estate development.

SM Prime continues forging strategic partnerships with leaders in renewable energy to expand its clean energy capacity, drive innovation, and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future.

A comprehensive and diverse energy mix, according to SM Prime, is a strategy that helps producers of renewable energy, revolutionizes the sector, and is the larger plan to lessen dependency on fossil fuels.

SM Supermalls has already achieved more than 50% of renewable energy use across its malls by leveraging partnerships with key renewable energy players and direct procurement

This energy infrastructure reflects SM Prime’s significant investment in emerging technologies. In 2022, SM Prime’s partnership with Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. (ARI) activated its strategic plans, and in 2024, it further broadened its renewable-energy footprint by partnering with TotalEnergies. The addition of Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation in 2025, along with the steady increase of leading solar rooftop suppliers for SM Supermalls, helps meet the demands for renewables through on-site generation.

SM Sta. Rosa. SM Supermalls continues to scale its use of renewable energy across its nationwide portfolio. By increasing its solar rooftop capacity, SM helps make its malls cleaner, more energy-efficient, and more resilient for surrounding communities.

This commitment to sustainable energy drives positive change and contributes to SM Prime’s broader mitigation and adaptation strategies, supporting the country’s national framework in achieving its emission reduction targets.

Energy for the people

Resilient communities and enduring partnerships for climate-smart urban centers are part of these system shifts toward energy independence. It confirms that renewables are a strategic asset, especially as they become affordable and community-serving, empowering businesses nationwide.

It also supports a sustainable lifestyle. For the SM Green Movement, this balance is achieved by re-energizing neighborhoods to contribute to the climate crisis and offering more options to become energy and fuel-efficient, while improving quality of life.

The festive Christmas Holidays at SM Supermalls. Powered increasingly by renewable sources, SM malls continue to serve as vibrant community hubs—bright, welcoming spaces that reflect SM Prime’s commitment to sustainable and resilient development.

“We started the journey with our energy efficiency programs in the 90s,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “This lets us enjoy our mall spaces now because we maximize our energy use, lower operational costs, while hopefully, reducing our emissions,”

“Of course, we still have a long way to go. But we are trying to make renewable energy accessible at scale to our malls – not just to create decarbonization value for the communities we touch and work with – but to provide flexible, adaptive, and sustainable mall experiences. Most importantly, a safer future for all,” said Tan. ###