The effects of the 7.7 magnitude earthquakes in Myanmar and the aftershocks in Thailand continue to be seen months after the events. The ultimate question is asked: Are we prepared for “The Big One”? As one of the most vulnerable countries to disaster and climate risk, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), the leading integrated property developer in Southeast Asia, continues to reinforce its commitment to disaster resiliency and heightened climate action. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 To increase the capacity of readiness within the institution and its communities, SM Prime continues to advocate for emergency preparedness and the general public’s continued education. SM Cares, SM Prime’s foundation arm, facilitates the annual Emergency Preparedness Forum to help mallgoers learn about emergency procedures, putting importance on staying calm to reduce panic and anxiety, basic first aid, life-saving techniques, and preparing senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWD) in an actual emergency. As the largest and fastest-growing residential sector developer, SM Development Corporation (SMDC)’s disaster preparedness training, Ready to Rescue, covers essential topics from fire and earthquake drills to water safety and first aid training programs to help residents face an emergency should it arise. Through SM Prime’s role within the Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies Philippines (ARISE-Philippines), training and education opportunities on disaster risk reduction and resilience are made more accessible within the local network. Together with ARISE Japan and India, two of the largest in the global community, knowledge sharing on the latest technologies in disaster risk reduction helps toward understanding large-scale disaster prevention and identifies opportunities for further improvement and response 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 In a Climate Fresk Workshop with The Transmutation Principle, SM Prime, together with host SM Hotels, gathered friends from the corporate and non-profit sustainability space to learn more about the science behind climate change–its drivers, mechanisms, and consequences–including mitigation, adaptation, and circular economy principles. “It was an exciting and valuable experience for us, given our advocacy for climate change resilience. The workshop succeeded in making it more accessible and relatable, particularly for individuals who are already aware of its effects on their respective industries,” says Oscar M. Lopez (OML) Center participant Charmaine Vitan. The gamified workshop originated from a French non-profit organization and is based on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports. Facilitated by local Philippine Freskers, it teaches the fundamentals of climate science – mapping key interdependencies between nature, biodiversity and human activities to ‘solve’ the complex narrative of climate change. The workshop was held at the SMX Convention Center Aura. “It invited everyone–not just one sector–to collaborate and participate in fields of knowledge that are seemingly not connected at all. To quote a groupmate, the immediate causes and effects of market actions are clear, but the bigger picture is clear when we collaborate with one another,” says World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines participant Joaquin Campos. 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗿𝗼𝘄 Always ahead of the curve, SM Prime strategically looks beyond the current industry needs and focuses on what can reduce risk and build long-term value. For SM Prime, an Environmental, Social, Governance, and Resilience (ESG + R) strategy ensures that the company is building for the security of future generations. SM Prime continues to focus its efforts on infrastructure resilience, disaster risk management strategies, readiness and swift response, and capacity building to create institutional readiness and help educate and shape public awareness. “Resilience is a way of life. It is a commitment to ensure that we act on our responsibility to care for others so that no one is left behind,” said Mr. Hans Sy, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman.              

Advancing New Clark City’s goal of fostering sustainable development, Sindicatum C-Solar Power Inc. (SCSPI), a subsidiary of Singapore-based renewable energy developer Gurīn Energy Pte Ltd, has started the construction of a USD33 million solar photovoltaic power plant within the rising metropolis, with completion targeted by next year. On 11 April 2025, SCSPI and Gurīn Energy, joined by the Department of Energy (DOE), Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and Union Bank of the Philippines, broke ground for the Capas Solar Power Project on a 40-hectare lot within New Clark City, marking the official start of the facility’s construction. “[T]he Philippines has one of the most exciting opportunities for renewable energy in the world. Here in Capas, Tarlac, with the support of the BCDA, the local government, and the stakeholders in our community, we wanted to show our commitment to our workplans by having this groundbreaking [ceremony],” said Jose Rafael R. Mendoza, president of SCSPI and country manager of Gurīn Energy. “Putting together a solar facility requires work not only from the developer, but cooperation with multiple stakeholders. It truly is a combination of multiple talents. And we’re very pleased to share this moment with you so that we continue to deliver a lasting impact for the progress of the Philippines,” he added. With a total investment commitment of USD33 million, the facility will have a total capacity of 38.81 megawatts peak (31.25 megawatts alternating current) upon its completion, which is targeted by January 2026. The power plant will be connected to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ substation in Concepcion, Tarlac via a 69-kilovolt transmission line. The project seeks to boost the renewable sector’s share in the Philippines’ total energy mix, and to address the power requirements of locators and residents in New Clark City and the Tarlac province. “This proposed solar project would definitely add to our target of achieving 35% of renewable energy share in the power generation mix by 2030…With this renewable energy plant, which will be operational by next year, it will add significant energy generation, especially to the Luzon grid,” said Ruby B. de Guzman, assistant director of DOE’s Renewable Energy Management Bureau. Erwin Kenneth R. Peralta, vice president for Investment Promotions and Marketing of the BCDA, added: “This solar power project will not only generate the energy for New Clark City, but will also bring skills, employment and economic prosperity to the local community, proving that progress can go hand in hand with innovation and sustainability.” On 10 September 2015, the BCDA and SCSPI entered into an agreement for the 25-year lease of  the property in New Clark City for the development of the solar photovoltaic power plant. In June 2023, SCSPI informed the BCDA of changes in its ownership structure after Gurīn Energy acquired its holding company, Capas Investment Pte. Ltd from Sindicatum Renewable Energy Company Pte. Ltd.,   Gurīn Energy, backed by New Zealand-based Infratil Ltd., is a renewable energy provider with investments in several wind and solar energy projects across Asia, including the Philippines. The company’s Capas Solar Power Project is seen to build up the renewable energy market in the Central Luzon, contributing to the national government’s goal of increasing renewable energy’s share in the country’s energy generation mix to 30% by year 2030 and 50% by 2040. It is also aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal No. 7, which is ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.        

In celebration of Earth Day 2025    Subic Bay Freeport–The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is holding the 16th Recyclables Collection Event (RCE) in time for the celebration of Earth Day 2025 from April 21 to 25, 2025. This year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” the celebration is highlighted by the Communication Education and Public Awareness (CEPA) caravan, which aims to empower stakeholders. The caravan happens on April 22 and 24 at the Function Hall B of the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC), and will also feature the Health and Environment discussion led by PCOM-Olongapo virtually via Google Meet.   “As for the main event, the 16th Recyclables Collection Event, will be held at the Mini Golf Course area of the Subic Bay Freeport, where stakeholders can bring hazardous waste materials and recyclable materials to ensure their proper disposal,” SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said. Also in line with the 16th RCE, sustainable products and technology exhibit, including the UBC Awareness and Collection Program led by GNS/ Tetra Pak Philippines, Bamboonihan and Green Foot Carbon Calculator by Banco Kalikasan, Wastewater/ Grease waste management by Soliman EcoWaste Management Corp., and PBC Waste Management by Innogy Solutions Inc., happens at the Promenade A of the Harbor Point Ayala Mall from April 21-23. The 16th RCE will have the Refill Revolution for a Cause at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall on April 21 and 23, and at the Ecology Center on April 24 and 25. “Our goal here is to reduce plastic pollution by reducing waste from single-use plastics. The proceeds from the donated recyclable materials collected will be doled out to the employees of Omniworx, the company tasked to clean and maintain SBMA buildings all over the Subic Bay Freeport,” Aliño said. He reiterated that these employees are “our partners in the segregation of wastes at source. They ensure that recyclables are properly segregated and turned over during the bi-annual RCE for proper disposal through our waste haulers.” Other activities include the Earth Day 2025 Community Cleanup, which will be held all over the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, and the Trash for Rice, a social development program of the Subic Bay Freeport Electronics Recycling Association. Earth Day 2025 is the Subic Bay Freeport Zone’s step towards its goal in the Race to Carbon Neutrality, making this premier Freeport into a carbon-neutral zone in the future,” Aliño said.

Globe reaffirms its leadership in environmental sustainability and corporate responsibility as it strengthens efforts to tackle climate change and preserve biodiversity across the country. In line with this year’s Earth Hour, Globe called on individuals, businesses, schools, and offices to participate in the global movement by switching off non-essential lights for one hour and adopting habits in everyday life that build a culture of sustainability. Beyond Earth Hour, Globe urges everyone to consider energy-saving habits, such as unplugging appliances when not in use, unplugging electrical appliances and devices when not in use or not charging, and using the stairs when possible. For its part, Globe continuously scales its climate initiatives, including a transition to renewable energy for high-consumption facilities, investments in energy-efficient network solutions, and the use of electric vehicle (EV) shuttles for employee transport. “Protecting the environment requires consistent action and collaboration. Through our climate and other environmental programs and partnerships, we are making sustainability more accessible to communities and empowering individuals to make a positive impact,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. In support of a climate-resilient future, Globe committed to support the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in its Forests for Life: 5M Trees by 2028 initiative. The program targets the rehabilitation of degraded forest areas in Ilocos Norte, Rizal, Leyte, Bataan, Bukidnon, and Lanao del Norte. Globe will contribute through reforestation, community engagement, and other forms of assistance to help ensure the program’s success. Globe’s efforts are anchored on its environmental sustainability priorities, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions within its value chain. The company also continues to welcome new partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and the public to accelerate progress towards environmental goals. Globe believes that protecting the planet is a shared responsibility. With sustained collaboration and active participation, a greener, more sustainable Philippines is within reach.      

In a bold move towards sustainability, Globe is ramping up the use of eco-friendly SIMs, introducing the product to Globe Prepaid and TM customers. This innovation makes eco-friendly SIMs available to Globe’s entire mobile base, with over 96% of mobile customers composed of Globe Prepaid and TM users. Globe previously launched eco-SIMs in 2022 for Postpaid users, becoming the first Philippine telco company to use recycled plastic for its simbeds. By transitioning from virgin plastic SIMs to SIMs made from 100% recycled plastic, Globe Prepaid and TM are taking a proactive stance in environmental responsibility. This shift aims to support Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13 on Climate Action. “Sustainability is at the heart of what we do,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.  “We continue to look for areas in the business where our practice leads to greater impact.” Eric Tanbauco, Globe’s Head of Consumer Mobile Business said, “The launch of our ecoSIMs is just one of the many ways Globe is working towards a greener Philippines, and we invite our customers to be part of this journey.” As sustainability becomes a key priority for consumers, Globe continues to integrate eco-friendly initiatives into its services. This move resonates deeply with today’s customers—especially Gen Z, who demand real action from brands on climate change. At the same time, TM remains the top choice for value-conscious consumers, proving that sustainability and affordability can go hand in hand. With TM, users can contribute to sustainability in small but impactful ways, without added costs. This ensures that customers can enjoy a consistent connection while making a positive difference for the planet. Beyond eco SIMs, Globe is continuously integrating green initiatives into its operations. These efforts include green network solutions, use of renewable energy, shift to electric vehicles, and other climate action strategies that help minimize environmental impact. Globe Prepaid and TM’s eco SIMs will soon be available nationwide, making it easier for customers to participate in meaningful changes toward a more sustainable future. Through this initiative, Globe reaffirms its role as a leader in responsible and innovative telecom solutions—ensuring that every connection contributes to a greener tomorrow.        

Bringing Water, Bringing Life Beyond infrastructure, these water access projects are transforming lives, ensuring that families, farmers, and entire communities have the resources they need to thrive. Hedcor Vice President for Corporate Services Noreen Vicencio emphasized that clean water access is not a privilege, but a fundamental right. “By ensuring stable water access, we are helping our host communities become more resilient to climate challenges, improving health outcomes, and securing livelihoods. These initiatives create lasting solutions that empower people and support a sustainable future,”Vicencio said. For many Filipino communities, access to clean water remains a daily struggle. In remote villages, families wake before dawn to fetch water from distant sources, farmers rely on unpredictable weather to irrigate their crops, and schools and health centers face sanitation challenges due to limited water supply. Without reliable access to water, daily life, public health, and economic stability remain at risk. Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable water solutions, Hedcor, the run-of-river hydro power operator of AboitizPower, has partnered with local governments and communities to improve water infrastructure in several communities across the country. Through rainwater harvesting systems, water impounding structures, and upgraded pipelines, Hedcor is ensuring thousands of families have reliable access to water,  a resource critical for health, agriculture, and climate resilience. Easing the Burden of Water Collection For decades, households in Benguet’s remote areas struggled with limited water access. In Barangay Dalipey, Bakun, Benguet, residents once relied on a single water pump located far downhill, requiring them to carry heavy containers over rough terrain. The burden was especially difficult for the elderly and young children. Residents of Sablan, Benguet faced a similar challenge. For decades, families hiked nearly an hour uphill to collect water from a spring, making this not just a chore but a daily hardship. Today, their reality has changed. Through Hedcor’s Php 1.8 million worth of projects, these communities now have newly installed water pipelines and dedicated storage tanks, providing clean water to over 1,200 households. The projects are part of the community development initiatives of Hedcor in areas where its ROR plants are located. Dalipey Barangay Captain Domingo Marcelo considers these projects a transformative one for their community, “Before, we had to travel far just to collect water. Now, with a better system in place, families can spend more time on productive activities instead of struggling to meet a basic need,” Marcelo shared. In Sablan, Kamog Waterworks Association President Jun Tad-o shared that access to clean water has eased the daily hardships of many families. “Our children now have access to clean, safe water without the exhausting trips. It’s a great relief for the entire community, especially for the elderly,” Tad-o said. Securing Farmers’ Livelihoods Beyond households, water access can also determine the success or failure of an entire farming season.  PV Sinag, AboitizPower’s solar power farm in Pangasinan managed by Hedcor, assisted in constructing a water impounding system to ensure continuous irrigation for farmlands, allowing farmers to withstand dry seasons and unpredictable weather patterns. The water  impounding system benefits over 200 farmers in addressing long-standing challenges that once put food production and livelihoods at risk. Labrador-Laguit Upland Farmers Association President Salvador Belingan emphasized the significance of the project,”Without this water system, all our hard work as farmers would be wasted. Now, we have the security to continue farming even during the hottest months.” Bringing Relief to Drought-Stricken Families Impasugong Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Head Joy Obsioma (left) receives water tanks from Hedcor, represented by External Relations Manager David Tacder (right). This effort is meant to help the local residents of the Municipality of Impasugong during the dry season. When El Niño’s drought hit Bukidnon in May 2024, thousands of families struggled with severe water shortages. To address this, Hedcor installed 13 rainwater harvesting tanks in affected barangays, providing both immediate relief and a sustainable water source to 9,000 households. “For us, these tanks don’t just store water—they bring hope,” said Barangay Impasugong resident Michael Mendoza. “Before, we had no choice but to endure long days without enough water. Now, we have a stable supply for cooking, cleaning, and sustaining small farms.” The water tanks also support local schools and healthcare facilities, ensuring proper hygiene and sanitation even during prolonged dry spells. Empowering Schools and Health Centers The handwashing station at Mag Amihan Elementary School ensures reliable access to water, helping improve hygiene, reduce the risk of disease, and support the health and well-being of students. In 2024, Sacasun, anAboitizPower’s solar power farm in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, installed handwashing stations in schools and health centers, ensuring that students and patients no longer haveto worry about water shortages affecting their daily routines. Reliable water access has transformed these schools and health centers, reducing the risk of disease and improving overall well-being. “This initiative not only protects our children’s health but also instills lifelong hygiene habits,” said Mag-amihan Elementary School Principal Maegen Limpio. “With a steady water supply, students can focus on their education instead of worrying about where their next drink of water will come from.” Building Resilient Communities From rural villages to drought-affected towns, Hedcor’s water projects are making a difference, proving that clean water is not just a necessity, but a foundation of healthier, stronger, and more resilient communities.     .                      

        BAGUIO CITY — Pinangunahan ni Mayor Benjamin Magalong ang ceremonial turnover ng anim na hydroponics greenhouses sa iba’t ibang barangay at lokasyon sa loob ng Baguio City, na ginanap sa Irisan Eco Park. Ang hydroponics greenhouses ay ipinamahagi sa Barangay Sto. Niño, Kabayanihan, Outlook Drive, at Imelda Marcos, na may dalawang karagdagang unit na inilaan para sa mismong Irisan Eco Park. Ang inisyatiba na ito ay naglalayong pahusayin ang produksyon ng agrikultura at itaguyod ang napapanatiling mga kasanayan sa pagsasaka sa komunidad. Ito ay isang taon ng pagsasakatuparan para sa Lungsod ng Baguio, dahil ang makabagong pagsulong na ito sa sektor ng agrikultura ay lumabas mula sa direktiba ni Mayor Magalong sa isang Management Committee Meeting noong nakaraang taon. Ayon kay Mayor Magalong,isa ito sa mga paraan ng lungsod para epektibong magamit ang pera ng mga nagbabayad ng buwis sa pamama gitan ng muling pag-invest nito sa komunidad sa pamamagitan ng mga proyekto tulad ng Hydroponics Greenhouses. Bilang karagdagan, ang proyekto ay nakatanggap ng suportang pinansyal na P10 milyon mula sa Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) upang higit na mapaunlad at mapalawak ang abot nito sa Baguio City. Ipinakikita nito ang pangako ng lungsod sa pagtataguyod ng matalinong pananaw sa lungsod habang inuuna ang pagpapanatili.  

Baguio City – SM City Baguio continues to be a model for sustainable urban development as it recently hosted a Sustainability Tour for 82 students from the University of Northern Philippines (UNP). The students, who are taking up the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Planning under the College of Architecture, explored the mall’s sustainability efforts and applications of eco-friendly practices that can be implemented in communities nationwide. Among the key highlights of the tour was the Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station, which supports the shift to sustainable mobility by encouraging the use of electric-powered vehicles. The students also explored the Rainwater Catchment Facility, a vital infrastructure that collects and reuses rainwater, contributing to the city’s water conservation efforts and ensures a sustainable water supply within the mall premises. Another key stop on the tour was the Greening Area, where pine tree saplings are cultivated before being relocated to reforestation sites across Baguio. This initiative reflects SM City Baguio’s continued dedication to environmental sustainability and urban greening efforts. The tour highlighted SM City Baguio’s commitment to Waste Segregation and Management. The mall implements a strict waste segregation system to ensure proper disposal and recycling of waste materials. By promoting responsible waste management, SM aims to minimize its environmental footprint and encourage sustainable practices among tenants and shoppers. Students were also introduced to the mall’s Natural Lighting Design, which maximizes daylight to reduce the need for artificial lighting. As an open-air mall, SM City Baguio operates without traditional air conditioning, significantly reducing energy consumption while providing a naturally ventilated and comfortable shopping environment. Program Head Ludivina Lozano of UNP’s BS Environmental Planning program emphasized the importance of seeing these initiatives firsthand, noting that such ideas can be introduced in communities nationwide to promote energy efficiency and sustainability. Through this Sustainability Tour, SM City Baguio reinforced its commitment to eco-friendly mall operations, inspiring future environmental planners to adopt practical and innovative green solutions in their fields. This initiative is part of SM’s larger mission to integrate sustainability into urban spaces and cultivate environmental awareness among future leaders.          

Pursuing their shared goal of empowering local communities, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Hann Philippines Inc., (HPI) and Hann Foundation Inc. (HFI) have joined forces to establish a Php5 million multi-purpose pavilion within the upcoming Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC) in New Clark City, Tarlac. On March 21, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang, HFI Executive Director Ana Christi G. Galura, and HPI Director of Corporate Finance Sheila M. Rivera signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the construction of this vital structure inside the AEBC, providing the local community with a venue for training, meetings, assemblies, exhibits, and other activities to protect and preserve Ayta culture and heritage. “In New Clark City, our goal is to ensure that economic growth and development benefit all sectors of society, especially our local Aeta communities. We are committed to empowering our stakeholders and building this Ayta Ethno Botanical Center into a cornerstone for agricultural education, innovation, and environmental stewardship,” said Engr. Bingcang. “The AEBC is an example of how the collective action of the government and private sector can make a big impact on our communities. Everyone has a responsibility in nation building. Aside from promotion of cultural heritage, agriculture, and innovation, this project also promotes employment and entrepreneurship. Through the knowledge and skills that will be gained in the halls of the AEBC, our Aeta and Capampangan communities will be more future ready to become eventual colleagues or even business partners at Hann.” Galura said. The 10-hectare Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC), spearheaded by the BCDA in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office III and the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), aims to scale up the agricultural capabilities of local farmers and fisherfolk, especially the Aeta communities in Pampanga and Tarlac. This will also serve as a model for food forests to be established in other green areas of New Clark City. This will boost food security and provide livelihood opportunities for the community, while also maintaining a healthy ecosystem and improving climate resilience in Clark. The project will be rolled out in three phases. The first phase will feature the multi-purpose pavilion, a ceremonial ground, a market, a coffee shop, a tamarind orchard, a coffee farm, and a pond. Phase 2 will include a mango orchard, picnic areas, and natural trails, while Phase 3 will add rice terraces, a bamboo grove, a dormitory, and a viewing deck. Under the agreement, HFI shall finance and undertake the construction activities for the pavilion, in compliance with the conceptual plan drafted by the BCDA and PSAU for the AEBC. The BCDA  shall prepare the structural and architectural design of the pavilion. Moreover, the management and supervision of the entire AEBC will be handled by the BCDA in partnership with PSAU. The signing of this MOA marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between the BCDA and Hann to ensure the sustainability of the AEBC project. Hann has signified its commitment to provide other forms of assistance to AEBC beneficiaries, including sponsorship or provision of livelihood programs, and the curation of the Ayta Museum. The establishment of the AEBC aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal No. 2: Zero Hunger, Goal No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Goal No. 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.