SM Prime Joins Global Conversation on Building Sustainable Cities for the Future

(L-R): Moderator Efraim Roxas, Environmental, Land Use and Urban Planning and Development Bureau (ELUPDB) Director Mylene Rivera, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, and Tohoku University Professor Jeongsoo Yu

By organizing the 7th annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes (APRU-SCL) 2024 Conference and the 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) at the SMX Convention Center Aura, SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) significantly contributed to the advancement of sustainable urban development. Over 300 experts convened at this esteemed event, which was organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), to deliberate on inventive approaches to constructing more resilient and environmentally friendly cities. The conference, which had as its main focus "Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation," emphasized the value of teamwork in solving urban problems.

The involvement of SM's top executives demonstrated the company's dedication to sustainability. Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, highlighted the company's community-serving initiatives and environmentally friendly policies. 

“Our malls are more than just shopping centers; they are dynamic public spaces, woven into the daily lives of millions of Filipinos. Our comprehensive environmental sustainability programs are deeply inspired by the vision of our Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. Hans Sy, a tireless advocate for environmental sustainability and disaster resilience. At SM Supermalls, we leverage science and technology to develop innovative solutions that are seamlessly integrated into the design and operation of our malls. We remain committed to leveraging innovation and collaboration to build a greener, more resilient, and more sustainable future for the Philippines.” ~Mr. Steven Tan, SM Supermalls’ President

Mr. Steven Tan, SM Supermalls’ President

SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan highlights the malls’ sustainability initiatives.

Jessica Bianca Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy at SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC), discussed the company's goal of developing sustainable integrated properties that promote vibrant communities. 

(L-R): University of the Philippines Los Baños’ (UPLB) Dean Jennifer Marie Amparo, UPLB Chancellor Jose Camacho Jr., Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Chief Executive Thomas Schneider, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay, SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) Conference Director Edgar Reyes Jr., and APRU-Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Director Yekang Ko

Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC), emphasized the significance of social media in disaster readiness. Here, he discussed the NRC's methods and resources, the Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP), and the ways in which the sciences assist risk governance.

“From Risk to Resilience: The Work of the National Resilience Council in Risk Governance.” ~Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC)

Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC)

A breakout session on forming relationships and partnerships, led by Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch, highlighted SM Prime's dedication to sustainability even more. The importance of cooperation was emphasized by Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF)-Philippines.

“Any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors.”

As it continues to create creative and sustainable lifestyle cities, SM Prime is dedicated to its role 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.