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.      

At SM Supermalls, going green is easy! Whether you’re shopping, dining, or simply strolling around, there are many ways to make eco-friendly choices. Here are seven simple habits to help reduce waste, conserve resources, and support sustainability during your next visit: Bring Your Own Reusable Bags Say no to plastic! Bring your own tote or cloth bag when shopping to reduce waste and keep plastic out of landfills. The best part? At SM Store and SM Supermarket, you won’t have to pay extra for a bag if you bring your own—saving money while saving the planet! Refill Your Water Bottle Stay hydrated the sustainable way! Instead of buying bottled water, bring your own tumbler and use the water refill stations at SM Foodcourt. This small switch helps cut down on plastic waste and is a cost-effective way to stay refreshed. Recycle at Designated Bins SM Supermalls provide recycling stations throughout the mall for paper, plastic, and even electronic waste. Disposing of items responsibly helps reduce landfill waste and supports a cleaner environment. Every small effort counts! Dispose of Old Electronic Devices Responsibly Have an old phone, charger, or other electronic accessories lying around? Look for the Electronic Devices and Accessories Disposal Bins at SM Cyberzone. These special bins ensure that e-waste is properly collected and recycled instead of ending up in landfills. Turn Trash into Cash SM Supermalls run a “Trash to Cash” recycling market where you can bring recyclable materials like paper, plastic, and metal in exchange for cash! This initiative promotes responsible waste disposal and gives recyclables a second life while rewarding your eco-friendly habits. Use E-Vehicle Charging Stations Driving an electric vehicle (EV)? SM Supermalls have E-Vehicle Charging Stations available for eco-conscious shoppers. Reduce your carbon footprint by switching to clean energy while you shop, dine, or run errands. Support Local and Sustainable Brands Check out pop-up markets and kiosks at SM Store that feature handmade, fair-trade, and upcycled products. Supporting local artisans and sustainable businesses helps reduce environmental impact and promotes ethical shopping practices. Which of these sustainable habits will you try on your next visit to SM Supermalls? Every small action contributes to a greener future—let’s shop smarter and greener together!

  BONGABON, Nueva Ecija—The Central Luzon Media-Citizen Council (CLMCC) and the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) launched on Saturday here the “Save Sierra Madre, Save Lives, Save the Future” photo exhibit competition that aims to raise public awareness on the need for a concerted effort to help protect the Sierra Madre mountain ranges from devastation. Mel Ciriaco, from Nueva Ecija and one of the Immediate Past Presidents of the CLMA-Region 3 led a tree planting activity at the foot of the Sierra Madre mountain in Barangay Labi in this town before the official kick-off of the project. Central Luzon and adjacent regions have been very blessed because of the protection endowed by the Sierra Madre mountain ranges, the CLMCC and the CLMA said in a statement. In the most recent typhoons in 2024 and in the previous years, the bulk and the peaks of the pristine Sierra Madre that spans the whole Luzon Island had protected and saved residents from the whips of catastrophes. Ironically, this very own nature everyone in the region nest as sanctuary, particularly the indigenous people is preyed on by forces, and now faces high risk of devastation. Its forest while shielding the regions from calamities is being denuded and which has been the cause of flash floods and major flooding in the downstream provinces, towns and cities scoring lives, destroying properties and leaving us with an overall economic turmoil due primarily to agricultural and infrastructural damages, the statement also said. “As Central Luzon journalists, not only through the might of our pen that we can advocate on the plight to save and protect Sierra Madre. Through “Save Sierra Madre, Save Lives, Save the Future” Photo Exhibit/Competition, we, the Central Luzon Media-Citizen Council (CLMCC) and the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) reinforce a strong campaign for public’s awareness of the needed protection and preservation of our sacred nature, God’s constant reminder of His love to mankind,” the statement further stated. The project, according to Carmela Reyes-Estrope, also aims to generate funds for the much-needed upliftment of the professional and accountability capabilities, including the social welfare needs of the media members of the CLMCC and the CLMA including other media people in the region. CLMCC together with other media-citizen councils in different regions and provinces in the country were established in 2022 through the Philippine Press Institute (PPI) and the International Media Support (IMS). The Media-Citizen Council is aimed to serve as a mediation and conciliation table between media members who are subjects of libel and cyberlibel complaints and the complaining aggrieved parties against their news articles and reports. Led by Atty. Jo Clemente of Tarlac Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) as CLMCC Chairman of the Board, other key officers of the councils have underwent a one week training for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) by the Office of the ADR of the Department of Justice in July last year. The council has as staple members other than the media the legal, who are members of the IBP, business, academe, youth and church and as primary partners, the local government units, the police and the military and other key sectors. Deng Pangilinan, current president of CLMA Region 3 said the photo competition runs from March 1-June 30, 2025 and is open to all amateur and professional, media and non-media members including students using DSLR, manual or mirrorless camera. Submission of entries is on July 16-30. The pre-selected winning entries will be displayed in a two-week exhibit from August 16-31 at SM San Fernando. Awarding will be on August 31 at SAM SSAN Fernando. First prize winner will receive P50,000, second prize P40,000, third prize P30,000, fourth prize P20,000 and fifth prize P10,000 and trophy. All media members except the organizing committees are disqualified from joining the competition. Caesar “Bong” Lacson, founding proponent of CLMA said the winning entries will also be featured in similar exhibits in other SM malls in Central and Northern Luzon where Sierra Madre mountain ranges also span. All interested parties are required to like and follow the social media pages of CLMA and CLMCC to also see the regular updates about the photo exhibit and competition and other activities of the groups.      

  Bases Conversion and Development Authority officials, including President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang, Chairman Hilario B. Paredes, Director Gerard R. Seno, Director Anthony Marvin G. Ponce De Leon, and John Hay Management Corp. President and CEO Marlo Ignacio V. Quadra meet with officials of Korea Water Resources Corp., including its President Yoon Seok-dae and Vice President Seong Yong Han. Leveraging South Korea’s expertise in sustainable water management, a delegation from the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) recently visited Korea Water Resources Corp. (K-Water) in Hwaseong, South Korea, with the goal of replicating the company’s advanced water management systems in its properties in the Philippines. The delegation, led by BCDA Chairperson Atty. Hilario B. Paredes and President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang, toured K-Water’s state-of-the-art facilities for a benchmarking activity, gaining insights on the company’s smart water infrastructure, as well as best practices in water management and sewage monitoring. The visit is in line with the BCDA’s goal to establish a holistic active conservation approach in the water resource management of New Clark City in Tarlac, Camp John Hay in Baguio City, and Poro Point in La Union. This will give way to the adoption of smart and sustainable solutions to address the water supply demand of locators and residents in these areas while reducing water loss, preserving watersheds, and promoting the responsible use of water resources. “As a pioneer in innovative water management solutions, K-Water will play a vital role in shaping the future water infrastructure in the BCDA’s economic zones. This will allow us to integrate smart water technologies in our developments, enabling the BCDA to balance the need of our locators with our duty to preserve the environment,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang. During the visit, K-water President Yoon Seok-dae reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to assist the BCDA in addressing growing water supply demand through sustainable water management solutions. K-Water, a South Korean government agency specializing in national management of water source development, in July 2024 forged a partnership with the BCDA through the signing of two memoranda of understanding. The company is currently conducting feasibility studies for the development of comprehensive water resource plans in New Clark City, Camp John Hay and Poro Point. This will include proposals to reduce water loss and ensure stable water supply through smart water network management and artificial intelligence-driven water purification plants. Once realized, the project will benefit locators and residents of New Clark City, a modern metropolis envisioned to be the first smart, sustainable, and future-ready development in the country. The project will also provide the water requirements of businesses, tourists, and residents of Camp John Hay while preserving the integrity of the area’s forest watershed, which is known as the “last frontier” of Baguio’s vast forested area. The system will also be replicated in the Poro Point Special Economic and Freeport Zone, a major transport and logistics hub in La Union that has its own airport and international seaport. This initiative is in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, specifically No. 6 Clean Water and Sanitation, No. 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities, No. 12 Responsible Consumption and Production, and No. 13 Climate Action.