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.
SM City Baguio is making significant strides in water stewardship with its innovative rainwater treatment facility (RTF), launched in July 2023. In the months since, the facility has already processed over 17,111.80 cubic meters of rainwater – equivalent to 7 Olympic-size swimming pools, or enough to fill over 6,800 standard water tankers – into potable water for the SM mall’s operations and for their lessees’ use.
This initiative supplements the mall’s water supply from the Baguio Water District and significantly contributes to the city’s water security and the safety of its residents. Located at the mall’s basement level, the RTF provides 30% of the mall’s total monthly average requirement for clean water that is safe for consumption and food preparation.
“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.
“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.
SM City Baguio’s rainwater treatment facility stands as a shining example of how businesses can play a vital role in addressing critical community needs through innovative and sustainable solutions.
SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon in integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future.
Enjoy peace of mind with round-the-clock security and gated entrances, ensuring a safe environment for you and your family in Camella Santa Rosa.
Maximizing your earnings involves purchasing products that offer significant long-term value. While it is not always ideal to keep all your money in a savings account, as current inflation rates often surpass most bank interest rates, investing might be the best option to make your money work more effectively for you.
A good way to invest your money is through real estate. Whether you are a first-time investor or someone looking to diversify your investment portfolio, buying a parcel of land is healthy to add to your list of assets because a property is tangible but can also be a liquid asset if you need it to be.
Like any investment, there are pros and cons to buying real estate such as the struggles of working as a land owner and an uncertain guarantee in cash flow. But buying a stand-alone lot helps mitigate those risks. Here are some reasons why a lot for sale may be the best investment you can make in 2024.
High Rewards, Low Cost Unlike forms of investment such as stocks, cryptocurrency, and mutual bonds that are volatile in nature, real estate steadily appreciates over time. For first-time investors, a stand-alone lot offers an excellent opportunity. Its value grows at a rate of three to five percent annually, and this appreciation is further fueled by the development of the surrounding area. Nueva Ecija, with its rapid urbanization, presents strong potential for real estate investment. Moreover, purchasing land is cost-effective compared to buying a house and lot, as the cost per square meter is reduced.
Flexibility and Potential Uses Owning a piece of land provides flexibility. You can explore various options based on your goals. Consider building a single-family home, a duplex, or a row house. Rent it out for passive income or use it as an asset for your future dream house. Regardless of the lot size, constructing a residential option for end-use or lease is always worth considering.
Camella Santa Rosa offers a variety of prime residential lots, allowing lot buyers to tailor residences that match their lifestyle and preferences.
Additionally, land value inflates over time. Some investors follow the ‘hold and sell’ strategy—buying land in rapidly developing areas, waiting a few years, and selling it based on the appreciated value. Others flip their lots, purchasing with flexible payment terms and selling outright with a significant markup. The versatility of land makes it a profitable investment.
Low Maintenance and Effort Stand-alone lots require minimal upkeep. Construct a fence and keep the grass trimmed for a presentable appearance. Unlike houses that demand constant maintenance, land remains relatively straightforward. As someone whose time is always occupied, you will appreciate the time and effort saved while still benefitting from yearly appreciation.
A L.O.T. to Discover in Camella Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija Nestled in the Rice Bowl of the Philippines, Camella Santa Rosa in Nueva Ecija offers a refreshing shift in scenery and lifestyle outside the buzz of Metro Manila. This 10-hectare residential development places a premium on open spaces and provides a refuge for those seeking a harmonious blend of nature and modern way of life.
Lifestyle Freedom Camella Santa Rosa presents a unique opportunity to create a personalized space in a lively, well-planned community. Imagine the freedom to design and build your dream home from the ground up. We offer a variety of prime residential lots, allowing you to tailor your residence to match your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you envision a contemporary abode, a cozy family home, or a luxurious retreat, our lots provide the perfect foundation for your dream.
Open Green Spaces Embrace a life connected to nature with our expansive green spaces. Camella Santa Rosa promotes a healthy, sustainable lifestyle, encouraging residents to enjoy morning walks in lush parks, family picnics in the pocket gardens, and various outdoor activities in the open areas. Our environment prioritizes your well-being, offering a peaceful sanctuary from the stresses of urban life.
Timeless Asset Investing in Camella Santa Rosa means securing more than just a piece of land, you are investing in an asset that remains steadfast over time. Our lots promise lasting value and desirability, making them a wise choice regardless of real estate market trends. Build your future in a community that will continue to thrive and be passed on for generations. Secure a prime residential lot and build your dream home exactly the way you envision it.
Camella Santa Rosa in the Land of Opportunities in Luzon Located along Santa Rosa-Fort Magsaysay Road in Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija, this development is the newest addition to the many Camella communities in the province. Offering easy access to schools, hospitals, shopping centers, and major transportation hubs, Camella Santa Rosa ensures convenience and connectivity and provides amenities such as a guarded entrance, a clubhouse with swimming pool, playground, and parks and pocket gardens. Create lasting memories in recreational avenues that mirror the natural beauty of the Land of Opportunities in Luzon.
Enjoy peace of mind with round-the-clock security and gated entrances, ensuring a safe environment for you and your family. Purchase a lot in a rapidly developing area of Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija, ensuring potential for future property value appreciation. Benefit from flexible payment options that fit your budget, making it easier to invest in your future home or property. Embrace a peaceful environment surrounded by lush landscapes and scenic views, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
A Lot of Offerings near Camella Santa Rosa Camella Santa Rosa is more than just a residential development, it is a community that provides convenience, accessibility, and a high quality of life. The development is in close proximity to retail malls and supermarkets, like S&R Cabanatuan, City Mall, AllHome, and Coffee Project, as well as recreation and entertainment spots like the Almon Waterpark Resort and Hotel and Fort Magsaysay.
Located nearby are healthcare facilities like the Nueva Ecija Doctors Hospital (NEDH), Immaculate Conception Medical Center (ICMC), and the Nueva Ecija Medical Center (NEMC), while a short ride away are educational institutions including Santa Rosa National High School, St. Rose of Lima Catholic School, Holy Cross Colleges, College of the Immaculate Conception, and the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), a state university offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
A Lot of Opportunities with Camella Santa Rosa Built by Camella, a trusted developer known for quality construction and commitment to customer satisfaction, Camella Santa Rosa is your gateway to a brighter future. Claim your space in this vibrant community today.
To know more about Camella Sta. Rosa and other Camella developments nationwide, visit www.Camella.com.ph or follow @CamellaOfficial.
Ms. Chal Lontoc, Philippine Travel Agencies Association Trustee, Mr. Jaison Yang, PRO, Head of Programs and Production, TTE 2024 VisMin Edition, Ms. Julie Maballo, Organizing Head – Airlines, Travel Agencies, and iTTE Sellers, Ms. Cleofe Albiso (Megaworld Hotels & Resorts), Ms. Angela “Rhea” Velez (Cebu Pacific Air), Ms. Mattel Luna (Union Bank of the Philippines), Ms. Evangeline Tankiang Manotok, CPA, MPA, Chairperson, TTE 2024 VisMin Edition, Mr. Tito Noel Mora, Co-chairperson, TTE 2024 VisMin Edition, Ms. Thesa Pangilinan (Discover Hong Kong Hong Kong Tourism Board), Mr. Leonard Bryan U. Sansolis (Philippine Airlines), Ms. Irene Tumaob (TIEZA – Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority), and Ms. Thermina Ann Akram (Go Negosyo)
Calling all travel enthusiasts!
The Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) is bringing the country’s biggest travel trade event to Cagayan de Oro City! The first edition of the TravelTour Expo VisMin (TTE VisMin) is set July 19 to 21, at the Limketkai Atrium, CDO, and it’s an event you won’t want to miss. Here’s why:
One-stop shop for travel deals Over 50 exhibitors including airline companies, hotels and travel agencies are pulling out all the stops by offering amazing discounts and exclusive offers on domestic and international flights, hotels, tours, resorts, cruise lines, travel agencies, and even local Yakan weavers.
Unveiling hidden gems Connect with travel experts from Visayas and Mindanao who can introduce you to unique destinations and hidden gems. From pristine beaches and vibrant cities to breathtaking mountains and historic sites, discover places you never knew existed and get expert advice on planning your perfect holiday.
Curated itineraries and expert advice Travel professionals can design itineraries according to budgets and travel goals. Talk to travel agents who can answer your questions, share local insights, and ensure a memorable journey.
Experience the best of VisMin hospitality TTE VisMin isn’t just about deals it’s about experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Visayas and Mindanao. Meet with tourism boards and local businesses, and learn about their regional cultures and captivating destinations.
Be part of something special TTE VisMin marks a milestone for travel and tourism in Visayas and Mindanao. Be a part of this exciting event and discover why the TravelTour Expo is the biggest and most highly anticipated travel trade event in the Philippines.
TTE VisMin is your gateway to unforgettable travel experiences, incredible deals, and expert advice-all under one roof! Mark your calendars and get ready to explore the world, one adventure at a time.
TTE VisMin is mounted in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), the Hong Kong Tourism Board, and UnionBank. It is also supported by the City of Cagayan de Oro, Cebu Pacific, Go Negosyo, Latitude, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the Philippine Airlines, and When in Manila.
TARA NA SA SARIAYA! Universal Robina Corporation (URC) Flour Division has partnered with the local government unit of Sariaya, Quezon for this year’s Agawan Festival. Aiming to make the festivities bigger and grander, URC will sponsor the “Pinagong” eating activity, “Agawan sa Bagakay,” and the Street Dancing Competition. URC Flour Division Operations Director Dario Arive Jr. and Sariaya Quezon Mayor Marcelo Gayeta led the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing. Witnessing the signing were (L-R) Graziella Mae Pons, URC HR Officer and HR Business Partner; Gemma Tacata, URC Senior Manager and EHSS; Lanie Mendoza, Sariaya Municipal Treasurer and Public Market Administrator; Marivic Gayeta, Organizer – Agawan Festival 2024; and Renaliz Miguel, Representative of Sariaya Tourism Culture and the Arts Office (STCAO).
(SARIAYA, QUEZON – PHILIPPINES)— Universal Robina Corporation, through its Flour Division, has partnered with the local government unit of Sariaya, Quezon and the Sariaya Tourism Culture and the Arts Office (STCAO) for a bigger and grander celebration of this year’s Agawan Festival.
The Agawan Festival is an annual harvest festival held in Sariaya, Quezon every May 15 in honor of Saint Isidore the Laborer, the patron saint of agriculture and good harvest. The celebration is known as the “Happy Pandemonium” and is one of the four harvest festivals celebrated in the province of Quezon.
During the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Sariaya Mayor Marcelo Gayeta and his wife, Marivic Gayeta, who is currently heading the organizing committee of this year’s Agawan Festival, welcomed the sponsorship of URC Flour Division.
“Masayang masaya ang bayan ng Sariaya dahil kasama namin ngayong taon ang Universal Robina Corporation Flour Division. Talagang masasabi naming sila ay kaagapay ng ating bayan sa pagpapaunlad dahil sa kanilang bagong bukas na planta na tiyak magbibigay ng trabaho sa ating mga kababayan dito sa Sariaya” Mayor Gayeta shared.
The URC Flour Division is one of the top flour millers in the Philippines. With plants located in Manila, Sariaya, and Davao, the division has a combined milling capacity of 2,150 metric tons per day. The state-of-the-art flour mills and blending facilities allow the division to manufacture customized products that fit the specific needs of its customers.
URC’s sponsorship of the Agawan Festival 2024 is the company’s way of appreciating Sariaya’s support when the town welcomed the opening and operation of their flour mills and blending facilities located in Barangay Talaan, Aplaya Road in Sariaya, Quezon.
The company will sponsor some of the activities including: the “Pinagong” eating activity targeting 3,000 people; the “Agawan sa Bagakay” with special prizes to be won by participants; and the Street Dance contest where dancers will be using “upcycled” sacks as their costume. URC will be donating used flour sacks for the dancers to use in their presentation.
“We creatively developed the “Pinagong” eating activity. Since URC is a producer of quality and world-class flour, we will donate our products to our partner bakeries for them to produce 3,000 pieces of the town’s famous and delicious “Pinagong” breads. Aside from the procession and other fun activities, this unique eating event will be one of the highlights of this year’s Agawan Festival. Exciting is an understatement for this activity!” said Naida Ebora, Sales, Marketing and Distribution Director, URC Flour.
Marivic Gayeta, wife of Mayor Gayeta and lead organizer of this year’s Agawan Festival, is also thrilled with the collaboration. “Ikinalulugod ng bayan ng Sariaya na kami ay inisponsoran ng URC sa aming nalalapit na kapistahan. Sigurado kami na ang aming mga kababayang makikilahok sa pagdiriwang ng fiesta, pati na rin ang mga turista na dadayo at makikisali ay matutuwa sa mga programang aming hinanda kasama ng URC.”
The annual Agawan Festival features a fiesta procession where people playfully snatch goodies and other produce hanging from the houses (or “pabitin”) as the parade winds its way down the streets. Colorful buntal hats are festooned all over the façade of houses. String beans are draped on windows like curtains, and banana leaves are used to adorn fences. The most traditional elements in the decorations are the bagakay, or young bamboo branches from which junk food, native delicacies such as the kiping, fruits, candies and money, are hung for people to collect as they pass by.
The annual festivities will be celebrating its 25th year this 2024. The term “Agawan” was coined by the town’s former parish priest Rev. Fr. Raul Enriquez, who was also the former president of Sariaya Tourism Council, and the proponent of the town’s Quadricentennial celebration in 1999.
The history of Negros Occidental is replete with occasions to help fellowmen. What may have started as a logical act of a farm owner taking care of a farm worker has, in time, rooted itself to a psyche that leans to help wherever possible. This holiday month, the Negros Season of Culture brings to the center of celebrations the works of NGOs whose missions have become modern-day conduits of this heritage of giving.
O Senyor Tagbalay!
We welcome good tidings with a reenactment in song of the story of the birth of Christ. In Hiligaynon musical tradition, the daigon or caroling opens with the song, O Senyor Tagbalay!, echoing Joseph’s plea for a room for Mary. Against the majestic façade of the Provincial Capitol of Negros Occidental, the singers of the De La Salle Chorale lend their voices to beseech all to open their doors to love and the Christ child. Joining the chorale are singers from Kalipay Negrense Foundation and Suntown Camp Foundation. Suntown comforts children with cancer and serious illnesses. Kalipay is a home for abused and abandoned children. We hope you think of them this Christmas.
NEGROS ART OF HOPE
In recent years, our Christmas trees have been decked less with imported stuff and replaced with ornaments created by a group of homegrown handicraft artists. Their works are boldly artistic, intent on wooing shoppers and giving artists a chance at sustainable livelihood, while helping fund feeding and educational programs. Trained and encouraged by the Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation, these “artisans of hope” mirror our collective mission to give, in turn making all of us creators of hope for others who have none. See what Santa’s elves have been busy with in Making Artisans of Hope.
KUSINERA DIARIES
Often we forget who puts the “happy” to our New Year’s celebration. Not this time. As we approach 2023, we celebrate one particular person who has been part of our heritage, from the kitchens of our old hacienda homes to the kitchens of our modern subdivision dwellings. Kusinera Diaries is a three-part documentary giving tribute to one of the most influential characters in the traditional home of the Negrense, the cook. For sure, this story is also about favorite holiday family food. But more significantly, we recognize the contributions and the place of the kusinera in our kitchens. Many of them have given all of their productive years to us. Many more have foregone marriage to devote their time to our families. And so, meet Dhalia, Alicia, and Dominga. Let them take you to a Happy New Year.
Ten outstanding local governance programs were recognized in the 2022 Galing Pook Awards held at the Ceremonial Hall of Malacanang Palace last Tuesday, November 22, 2022.
Galing Pook Foundation with its co-presenters SM Prime Holdings Inc., and the DILG-Local Government Academy, and sponsors Cebu Pacific and Airspeed named local government units from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao that promote innovation and excellence.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. commended the Galing Pook Foundation for recognizing and incentivizing top performing LGUs. He stressed how strong collaboration between the public and private sector can lead to more meaningful and successful programs that truly benefit the Filipino people.
“The recognition that you give to cities and municipalities inspires them to accelerate their drive towards improvement and it encourages LGUs to adopt practices that make us paragons of excellence in public service. It is necessary for us to underscore the importance of strengthening partnerships between the government and private organizations, such as the Galing Pook Foundation, especially as we bring about meaningful progress in the country.”
Galing Pook Chairperson Mel Sarmiento expressed his gratitude to all the local executives and LGU teams that participated this year: “It’s truly inspiring to see the impact of the work that you do, and I’m sure you’ve brought value to many Filipinos all over the country. Our collaborations bring us closer to realizing our shared vision, na ang bawat pamilyang Pilipino, may simple pero kumportableng buhay.”
The winners of the 2022 Galing Pook Awards were: The Green Wall of Alcala (Alcala, Cagayan); Advancing and Sustaining Good Governance and Community Actions towards Resiliency and Empowerment (Basilan Province); Bataan Public-Private Partnership Programs (Bataan Province); Balik-Biñan Project: Tourism Development through Heritage Conservation (Biñan City, Laguna); From Black to Green: Fishponds, Eco-Tourism and Full Employment (Brgy. Cayabu, Tanay, Rizal); Trekking to Unlock Community Ailments and Difficulties (TUCAD) (Goa, Camarines Sur); “I-BIKE” A Program Promoting the Development of the Iloilo City Bike Culture (Iloilo City); Yaru: A Whole-of-Community Approach Towards Disaster Management (Itbayat, Batanes); Libertad Fish Forever Savings Club (Libertad, Antique); and Basta Piddigueño, AgriHenyo: Consolidated Farm Production System (Piddig, Ilocos Norte).
The 10 winners were chosen from 18 finalists and a record field of 196 applications from different LGUs in the country.
Launched on October 21, 1993, the Galing Pook Awards has recognized 329 LGU programs from 200 LGUs in the country that have been promoted for replication to benefit more communities.
Caption: President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. recognizes the 10 winners of the Galing Pook Foundation 2022 at the Ceremonial Hall of Malacanang Palace. He commended the Galing Pook Foundation for recognizing and incentivizing top performing LGUs. With them in the photo are: Galing Pook Foundation chairman Mel Sarmiento, Local Government secretary Benjamin Abalos, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri.
SM Prime Holdings, together with SM Cares and SM By the Bay once again took part in the annual International Coastal Cleanup (ICC), bringing together thousands of volunteers into an event that underscored the importance of protecting the world’s seas, oceans, and other bodies of water. The event was held last September 17 at the SM By the Bay Central Park, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.
A total of 2,438 volunteers joined this year’s ICC, composed of students, professionals, and others from different private and public organizations. At the end of the activity, an estimated 12,158 kgs of trash, equivalent to a total of 1,613 trash bags filled, was successfully collected.
Among those who graced the event were Climate Change Commission Vice Chairperson Sec. Robert Borje, Department of Environment and Natural Resources – National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) Regional Executive Director Jacqueline A. Caancan, DENR-NCR Regional Executive Director for Technical Services Engr. Ignacio R. Almira, DENR-NCR Regional Strategic Communication and Initiatives Group Head Chris Villarin, DENR-NCR Communication Development Officer II Ariz Abad, SM Investments President and CEO and 2GO Group President and CEO Frederic DyBuncio, SM Prime Holdings Inc. SVP Glenn Ang, SM Supermalls SAVP for Operations Perkin So, SM By the BAY Mall Manager Marie Charlene Claire K. Canoy-Narvasa and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Philippines’ Markets and Assurance Executive Director Allan Cao.
SM By The Bay and SM Cares’ ICC event for this year was done in collaboration with different private and government agencies
The ICC is a yearly global event that encourages individuals to be part of the movement for cleaner seas and oceans. Every year, thousands of Filipino volunteers from various sectors and communities join the efforts to help ensure the cleanliness of the shorelines and waterways in the country.
“The International Coastal Clean Up is part of the overall SM Green Movement. As a proven responsible property developer and community partner, SM Prime’s various Sustainability programs across its malls, residences, hotels and leisure properties promote resource conservation & environmental protection for an improved quality of life in the communities it serves,” said SM Supermalls SAVP for Operations Perkin So.
This year’s event was made possible by SM Offices, 2GO, PwC, Maynilad, and International Coastal Clean Up Philippines. DENR-NCR, the Climate Change Commission, and the Philippine Coast Guard were also present to provide their support.
Aside from the annual observance of ICC, other sustainability projects of SM Cares include the Trash-To-Cash Recycling Market where individuals can drop off their recyclable waste in exchange for cash; the Plastic Waste and Electronic Waste Collection Programs which promotes responsible plastic and electronic waste management affecting our seas, just to name a few.
SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community. SM Cares’ advocacies include programs on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on Environment.
Hamilo Coast, the premier beach resort town in Nasugbu, Batangas, may be the weekend haven of the country’s affluent set, yet it is on track as a thriving model of sustainable eco-tourism practices.
Touting 5,800 hectares of prime seaside development, Hamilo Coast is a project of SM Prime’s Costa Del Hamilo, Inc. (CDHI), which carefully integrates residential, resort, leisure, commercial, and institutional land uses in the sprawling estate. But beyond its vast scope and stunning vistas, Hamilo Coast embraces sustainable tourism at the core of its philosophy and shows how beautiful beachfront homes can harmonize with nature and the environment.
2022 marks Hamilo Coast’s 15th year of productive partnership with the conservation group World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF). Hamilo Coast and WWF have been working together on key areas for sustainability—coastal resource management, ridge-to-reef management, solid waste management, mangrove reforestation, the use of renewable energy sources, and environmental awareness.
This long-standing collaboration with WWF signifies Hamilo Coast’s determination to pursue eco-tourism and sustainability while upholding international standards for leisure property development.
Ms. Imee G. Francisco, Vice President and Head of CDHI Projects and Operations, takes pride in the partnership’s objectives. “More than building and maintaining a beautiful community, we seek to create and sustain a world that future generations can enjoy. To help serve this end, CDHI continues to develop Hamilo Coast without compromising the quality of wildlife living around it.”
This year, Hamilo Coast and WWF will focus on addressing the major components on waste management, which include assessment of solid waste, water and wastewater management practices, formulation of environmental management plan, and the promotion of food shed farming systems. Apart from these, Hamilo Coast and WWF will continuously work on programs that will help conserve, protect, and nurture the environment.
For one, Hamilo Coast and WWF’s Ridge to Reef program declared three of Hamilo Coast’s 13 coves–Pico de Loro, Etayo, and Santelmo–as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). These are coastal zones where human activities are strictly regulated to ensure their long-term conservation. Declaring more MPAs would also mean expanding Hamilo Coast’s scope in safeguarding more marine ecosystem and resources.
Hamilo Coast also continues to implement a mangrove reforestation program in its 24-hectare mangrove belt—one of the largest in Nasugbu. Here, Hamilo has planted 50,000 propagules hand-in-hand with World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines.
Mangroves are the first line of defense for coastal communities, stabilizing shorelines by averting erosion and providing natural barriers to storm surges, flooding, and hurricanes. As an effective carbon storage, mangroves absorb six times more carbon than mature tropical forests, making it all the more vital in slowing down the effects of climate change.
Finally, Hamilo Coast and WWF will further push for environmental awareness by celebrating occasions that show respect for biodiversity. One is the annually held Earth Hour, during which time people are urged to shut down electricity to make a substantial difference in energy consumption. Individuals, organizations, and establishments also come together on Coral Triangle Day to shed light on ocean conservation and the ways we can protect and preserve the world’s epicenter of marine biodiversity.
Likewise, the development boasts the largest volunteer effort for the ocean’s health, made possible with the International Coastal Cleanup, where people gather on the Pico and Santelmo beaches to collect trash and record information on the collected debris.
For all these sustained efforts, WWF has awarded Hamilo Coast with the Longest Sustainability Partner Award, recognizing the development’s commitment to sustainable tourism and its positive impact on the Philippine tourism industry.
Francisco affirms, “CDHI is proud of how far we have come at Hamilo Coast with the help of WWF. This inspires us to do even more, in the hopes that our efforts will make it possible for future generations to witness the beauty of nature as we see it today.”
SM Foundation (SMFI), the corporate social responsibility arm of the SM group, together with Maxeon Solar Technologies, recently powered up the Lemery Pilot Elementary School (LPES) in Batangas through the Sinag Schools program.
This social good collaboration between SMFI and Maxeon aims to provide clean and renewable energy to schools in grassroot communities by installing solar panels on an SM school building, especially to those that have low operating expenses.
In addition to the solar panel installation which intends to power positive change in the way energy is consumed in public schools, the program also aims to enhance the understanding of students in terms of energy management and the need to transition to cleaner energy alternatives with lower environmental impacts.
Through the Sinag Schools program, SMFI and Maxeon installed 21 solar panels— estimated to produce 6510 watt-p—on an SM school building in Batangas.
“Through this program, we want to power up the learning and development of young people. We want to help teach young people about solar energy, about renewable energy. We want to power up the next generation to help save our planet,” Maxeon Fab4 General Manager Glenn Everett said.
The SM school building at the LPES, which was donated by SMFI in partnership with SM Prime Holdings (SMPH) in 2017, now boasts 21 solar panels—estimated to produce 6510 watt-p. With the savings on electricity, the school may realign their budget to more efforts and other innovations that will give the students an environment more conducive to learning.
It takes a village to raise a child SMFI executive director Debbie Sy underscored the importance of collective efforts in advancing the learning experience of every student in the country: “We believe that collaboration can drive growth and become a force for good in addressing societal challenges. CSR partnerships can create solutions that improve society by fostering learning, promoting innovation and gaining access to new technologies, such as the Sinag schools program. CSR collaboration can pool resources, both financial and human resources – between multiple organizations which can amplify social good impact.”
“The establishment of an ever-evolving CSR strategy and partnerships will help companies and non-government organizations in developing and implementing crucial social good programs over decades while having procedures in place that integrate social and environmental priorities into CSR core strategy – all in close collaboration with stakeholders,” she further added.
Moreover, Everett mentioned how SMFI and Maxeon share the similar set of values and interest when it comes to helping Filipino learners: “We have this concept of powering positive change in the world. We are happy to be working together with SM Foundation to power up the Lemery Pilot Elementary School.”
“Individually, we can do so much. But together we can do actually more. For us to bring our solar technology and SMFI to bring in their schools, these things are much better together than they would be apart,” he concluded.
Spreading social good all the way SM Foundation made sure to truly touch the lives of the learners and teachers of LPES as it donated eight desktop computers, 200 bags with school supplies, and more than 160 pcs brand new kinder and elementary books to further promote the love for reading among the students. Clothing items for parents were also distributed.
For more information about this initiative, follow SM Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube: @SMFoundationInc.
Maxeon is headquartered in Singapore. The company designs, manufactures, and sells Maxeon® and SunPower® brand solar panels. Maxeon has sales operations in more than 100 countries, operating under the SunPower brand in certain countries outside the United States. Maxeon is a leader in solar innovation with products that span the global rooftop and solar power plant markets through a network of more than 1,700 trusted partners and distributors. A pioneer in sustainable solar manufacturing, Maxeon leverages a +35-year history in the solar industry and numerous awards for its technology.
SM Foundation, through its School Building Program, is an active partner of DepEd’s Adopt-a-School program. This social good initiative aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms nationwide. To date, it has turned over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities.
We all know that the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) is a popular destination for unforgettable gastronomic and recreational experiences, but did you know that the 67-hectare Mall of Asia Complex where MOA stands is engineered to withstand disasters caused by natural hazards?
The foundation of the Mall of Asia Complex was built to be safe and secure because SM Prime Holdings, Inc., one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers incorporates disaster resiliency measures in every project, with the MOA Complex as one of its biggest investments.
SM Prime collaborated with a team of local and international experts to ensure the feasibility of both water and land before the MOA complex was built and once finalized, Belgium’s renowned coastal development construction company, Jan de Nul, developed it from the ground up.
The reputable Jan de Nul made sure the terrain was stable and the complex’s roads were made resistant to earthquakes and erosion, in accordance with the National Structural Code of the Philippines and approved by both the Philippine Reclamation Authority and the National Government.
Three important disaster resiliency features were used in protecting the Complex and the coastal community of Pasay from tides and waves: One, a three-kilometer seawall built to stand against liquefaction; two, a meter-high inverted wave return to serve as defense against high waves; and three, a drainage channel to prevent floods during storm surges. This was put to test when Typhoon Pedring hit in 2011, and the Mall of Asia Complex was spared from destructive waves and flooding that submerged many other surrounding establishments.
As an added feature, both the Complex’s main road and all its structures are elevated 4 meters above the parameters set by the National Building Code. Pilings strengthened its foundation and greatly improved its soil bearing capacity.
Family fun, leisure and entertainment are the objectives behind the awe-inspiring grandeur of SM Mall of Asia, but this vision is founded on a commitment to safety and a secure foundation throughout the Complex. This is a firm philosophy of SM Prime Chairman of the Executive Committee Mr. Hans T. Sy, a champion for disaster resilience, who continuously invests in DRR and in allocating 10% of the company’s expenditure for DRR in all of SM’s infrastructures throughout the country.
“Today, disasters have become more frequent and severe. The government and the private sector must work together to find solutions for greater resiliency. SM prime as a responsible property developer places Disaster Risk Reduction as one of its core strategies. It simply makes good business sense.” emphasizes Mr Hans Sy. He believes that not only is DRR an effective way to grow the business but it protects the communities where SM is located amid the increasing risks of climate change.
Today, the MOA Complex is a bustling realization of Mr. Henry Sy Sr.’s grand vision for it to become both a premiere integrated leisure destination with a complimentary business and lifestyle district – one of the country’s truly revolutionary mixed-use developments, and a thriving example of disaster risk reduction at work.
The next time you visit the MOA Complex – whether it is to visit the world’s largest IKEA, or to view the sunset from the top of the MOA Eye, or to simply shop and dine with your loved ones – it will be good to know that SM Prime has ensured your safety and security from the time the development was conceptualized and opened in 2006.. to today and tomorrow.
PHL Travel Blog 