Through AuroraPH, Aboitiz Foundation and GivePower Foundation are bringing clean, reliable electricity to the Philippines’ most remote schools. These last-mile schools, identified by the Department of Education as lacking basic resources, now have access to essential power, transforming classrooms and enhancing the learning experience for students, teachers, and their communities. “We are thrilled to partner with the Aboitiz Foundation to bring clean, reliable energy to last-mile schools in the Philippines. Together, our organizations are deeply committed to creating sustainable and transformative change, ensuring that every community, no matter how remote, has access to the tools and resources they need to thrive,” said Michele Magee, President of GivePower Foundation. AuroraPH is a flagship project under Aboitiz Foundation’s Future Leaders program, aimed at closing educational gaps in remote areas by providing sustainable power and internet connectivity. By equipping these schools with renewable energy, AuroraPH is unlocking new opportunities for learning, economic growth, and a brighter future for underserved communities. “Our mission is to empower communities and nurture future leaders,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, President of Aboitiz Foundation and Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer of Aboitiz Equity Ventures. “With AuroraPH, we’re not just bringing solar energy to classrooms; we’re creating a supportive and inspiring learning environment. This project would not be possible without the dedication of GivePower, whose support has been instrumental in making these meaningful changes in our communities.” This project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), demonstrating Aboitiz Foundation’s commitment to sustainable development and providing equal access to resources in underserved areas across the Philippines. Hontiveros-Malvar emphasized the impact of the partnership, saying, “Aboitiz Foundation, together with GivePower and DepEd, is committed to helping remote schools by advancing education and community development. We are proud to support DepEd’s 5-point agenda under Secretary Sonny Angara, which prioritizes digital education, infrastructure, and teacher support. By reducing barriers to education, we are building a foundation for sustainable growth and better opportunities for Filipino youth.” This initiative marks an important step toward accessible education and sustainable growth for last-mile schools across the country. With Aboitiz Foundation and GivePower leading the way, these schools are now empowered with the energy needed to transform lives and build a better tomorrow.  

SM Supermalls, a leading Philippine mall operator, reinforces its commitment to sustainability by significantly expanding its Electric Vehicle Charging Station (EVCS) network. With the completion of stations at SM City Lucena, SM City Rosales, and SM City Sucat, the mall giant now operates a total of 111 EVCS across 62 malls nationwide. Additional EVCS include SM City Novaliches, SM City Batangas, and SM Center Las Piña. This expansion underscores SM Supermalls’ strategic focus on supporting the growing EV market in the Philippines. By providing convenient and accessible charging infrastructure, the company aims to encourage more Filipinos to adopt EVs as a sustainable transportation option. SM Supermalls is making EV ownership more attractive by offering complimentary charging services at all EVCS locations, significantly reducing operating costs for EV owners. This cost-effective approach is expected to drive increased adoption of EVs, which in turn contributes to the national government’s Republic Act 11697 (Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act or EVIDA) for EV industry development. With a target of 75 malls with EVCS by the end of the year, SM Supermalls has the largest rollout of EVCS, demonstrating an active contribution to a cleaner and healthier environment by reducing the country’s carbon emissions. EVs utilize lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of at least 100 kilowatt-hours of electricity, proving to be cost-effective in the long term and eco-friendly as they emit no carbon dioxide. Since the project began in 2022, more than 10,123 unique users have visited across 62 malls, and a total of 357,874kWh of electricity has been provided for free. The company’s investment in EVCS infrastructure demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and its role in promoting a greener future for the Philippines. This aligns with the SM group’s goal of achieving lower carbon emissions through the transition to environmentally friendly transport alternatives. SM Supermalls’ dedication to sustainability extends beyond EV charging. The company is actively exploring and implementing various eco-friendly initiatives across its malls to create a more sustainable future for all. By providing a robust EVCS network and embracing sustainable practices, SM Supermalls is positioning itself as a leader in corporate social responsibility and a catalyst for positive change in the Philippines.      

By Lloyd Revilla The Aboitiz Foundation is enhancing its commitment to sustainable power and internet connectivity for remote schools across the Philippines through the installation of solar panels. The project aligns with the Department of Education’s 5-point agenda under Sec. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, focusing on digital education, infrastructure, and teacher training. By ensuring access to modern educational tools and digital learning resources, this program aims to transform the educational landscape for underserved communities. A generous $100,000 contribution has been secured to kickstart the implementation of this crucial initiative. “The AuroraPH Project is not just about solar panels—it’s about empowering schools and communities to thrive in ways that have never been possible before,” said Sabin Aboitiz, Chairman of Aboitiz Foundation. “For many remote schools, access to electricity means finally lighting up classrooms, powering computers, and connecting with the world—providing essential resources that have long been out of reach.” The pilot phase will be launched in select schools, including Iram II Elementary School in Sitio Mampweng, Old Cabalan, Olongapo City, Zambales, and various schools in Benguet, such as Awing Elementary School, Bakian Guiniawan Elementary School, Naswak Elementary School, Piminggan Elementary School, Marcelo Marques National High School, Daynet Elementary School, and Labney Primary School. “By bringing solar power to last mile schools, we’re not only providing energy but also creating pathways for students and teachers to benefit from technology, ensuring they have the tools to thrive in today’s world,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, President of Aboitiz Foundation. “This initiative is key to our mission of fostering inclusive progress and uplifting communities by partnering with our strategic global technology providers.” For many schools in the Philippines’ most remote areas, the absence of electricity has hindered learning and limited access to essential technology. Aboitiz Foundation’s initiative addresses these challenges by unlocking opportunities for communities that have long been overlooked. The solar-powered systems will not only provide electricity but also enable internet connectivity through services like Starlink, empowering both teachers and students. Through the AuroraPH Project, the Aboitiz Foundation continues to bridge the gap between technology and education, ensuring that even the most isolated communities have access to vital resources.        

Led by its President Steven Tan, SM Supermalls is in an era of reinvention, transforming its malls into sustainable, innovative, community-centric spaces. “The history of SM Supermalls is one that has been built on innovation and change to serve the needs of millions of Filipinos,” says Mr. Tan. In this new era, SM Supermalls is reimagining customer experience by creating more spaces for leisure and interaction, and celebrating local communities.   “Our goal is to create spaces that not only meet the needs of our customers but also anticipate and evolve with them. This new era is about forging deeper connections with our community and ensuring that every visit to our malls is meaningful and enriching,” adds Mr. Tan. 3 ways SM Supermalls is transforming its malls for the Filipino community Greener spaces SM City Baguio Sky Terrace is a vibrant sustainable area designed for relaxation and social interaction, offering an inviting open space that functions as a mini park. This picturesque venue features charming coffee shops, providing visitors with the perfect spot to unwind while enjoying a delightful beverage. Surrounded by greenery and offering great views of the city, the Sky Terrace combines modern convenience with a focus on environmental sustainability, creating a perfect balance between urban development and nature. A key feature of the bold redevelopments of SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM City Bacolod, SM City Cebu, and SM City Iloilo is the integration of lush indoor gardens and the development of more outdoor greeneries. Optimized sustainability features SM’s proven sustainable solutions, such as water recycling and treatment, solar energy, natural lighting, and deck landscaping – which are already present in almost all SM malls – are continually improved. Community-centric designs In its new generation of malls, designs are influenced by the communities they serve. In the soon-to-open SM City Laoag, the inabel weave, a traditional Ilocano handwoven fabric, is reflected in its sky roof. The upcoming SM City La Union embodies the province’s youthful beach vibe. Additionally, spaces are created exclusively for local brands, celebrating and supporting the communities’ entrepreneurs. Stay tuned: Be the first to know about our grand openings and exclusive previews. Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media to get the latest news and exclusive sneak peeks. There’s #MoreForYouAtSM SM is continually pushing the boundaries of retail, redefining and reimagining the mall experience for Filipinos. More than just shopping spaces, SM is evolving to build and nurture communities where both Filipinos and businesses thrive.        

SM City Baguio’s innovative rainwater treatment facility (RTF) has been recognized by esteemed award-giving bodies, highlighting the mall’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The RTF recently earned the Gold Award under the Brand Effectiveness through Corporate Sustainability and Brand Trust at the Philippine Association of National Advisers (PANA)’s PANAta Brand Effective Awards Night 2024. The RTF was recognized for its focus on community impact, transformative consumer behaviors, and brand-driven community upliftment. PANA, a leading professional organization for marketing and communications professionals in the Philippines, established the PANAta Awards to recognize outstanding achievements in the industry. The Gold Award is the highest honor bestowed by PANA, recognizing excellence in branding, marketing, and communications. In addition to the PANAta Award, the RTF also received a Bronze Award in the Care for the Environment category at the 2024 Asia Pacific Tambuli Awards in June 2024. The RTF won the award for its innovative approach to sustainability, demonstrating the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its positive impact on the community. The Tambuli Awards, established in 2005, celebrate excellence in marketing communications and recognize successful marketing campaigns and sustainability initiatives that positively impact the world. The groundbreaking rainwater treatment facility (RTF), launched in July 2023, has made significant strides in water stewardship. Since its inception, the RTF has processed over 17,111.80 cubic meters of rainwater—equivalent to 7 Olympic-size swimming pools—into potable water for the mall’s operations and lessees’ use.  Strategically located at the mall’s basement level, the RTF provides 30% of the mall’s total monthly average requirement for clean, consumable water. The RTF employs a rigorous six-step treatment process, with equipment constantly monitored and parameters checked in real time to guarantee optimal performance. The treated water undergoes regular testing and consistently meets all water quality standards. “We at SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) are proud to present this rainwater treatment facility as a symbol of our commitment to sustainability and community well-being,” said SM Supermalls’ Vice President and Sustainability and Resilience Head Engr. Liza Silerio. “By harnessing rainwater, we’re conserving water resources and promoting a healthier Baguio City.” 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.      

By Dante Salvana The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has formalized its partnership with Danfoss Philippines Inc. for the formulation of a decarbonization framework in New Clark City, pushing forward the adoption of energy-efficient and carbon-neutral solutions in the development of the rising metropolis. BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and Danfoss Philippines General Manager Allan Alfredo Almendrala on Monday, September 16, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the conduct of a study on the implementation of a decarbonization program for New Clark City. Ambassador Franz-Michael Mellbin of the Royal Danish Embassy in Manila was present to witness the signing. This will give way for the rollout of innovative and sustainable solutions to enhance urban development and improve the quality of life, while preserving the natural ecosystem in New Clark City. “The signing of this MOU is a significant milestone in our endeavors to transform New Clark City into a smart, sustainable, and resilient metropolis. With this decarbonization program, we aim to position New Clark City as a model and benchmark for other cities in the Philippines—and even around the globe—that are striving to achieve a net-zero transition,” PCEO Bingcang said. Danfoss is a Danish multinational company that helps its customers decarbonize through energy-efficient solutions. It offers the best-in-class technology and solutions to drive the green transition through energy efficiency, machine productivity, lower emissions, and electrification. “By offering a roadmap for green urban transition, it shows how cities can act as ambitious, inspirational, front-runners that showcase green technology and create attractive places to live and work… We, in Danfoss, together with the Danish embassy are happy to share our new technology in relation to energy efficiency to fulfill the New Clark City vision,” General Manager Almendrala said. Under the MOU, Danfoss will share its technical expertise and knowledge on cost-effective decarbonization programs, as well as the latest carbon-neutral technologies. Danfoss will also lead the technical assessments, feasibility studies, and business case preparation for the program. More specifically, the study will focus on the potential of adopting smart store systems, embedding district cooling systems, and establishing a Sustainability Technology Center in New Clark City. Ambassador Melbin said the decarbonization efforts in New Clark City will not only usher sustainable development in the city, but also improve the quality of life of its residents and locators. “This partnership between New Clark City and Danfoss will accelerate sustainable solutions and [foster] a better life for Filipinos,” he said. Earlier, the Royal Danish Embassy in Manila brought a delegation to New Clark City, prompting BCDA and Danfoss to start talks on energy efficiency and decarbonization strategies. During the event, Ambassador Mellbin said the Danish government will help BCDA “optimize New Clark City for energy efficiency” by sharing their expertise in green solutions and innovations.          

By Dante Salvana FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija – The troops of the91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion, Philippine Army, and the members of the One Fort Mag Media (OFMM) conducted a Tree Planting Activity at Ermita Hill, Barangay Zabali, Baler Aurora on September 15.  The Narra seedlings planted at the Arboretum of Ermita Hill were sponsored by Forestry School in Aurora State College of Technology. Lieutenant Colonel Aries Quinto, Commanding Officer, 91IB, participated in the activity along with the officers and members of the OFMM and personnel from the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Civili-Military Operations, G7, 7ID, and Division Public Affairs Office. After the activity, a Press Conference was held at ASCOT with Lt. Col. Quinto; OFMM President, Jason De Asis; ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes; and 307th CDC Director, Major Ron Michael Soriao. In his message, Lt. Col. Quinto recognized the communication efforts to bridge the gap between the community and the Army as he believes that transparency and collaboration are essential in fostering a deep understanding of the unit’s mission. He then assured the media and the ASCOT community that their concerns would be addressed, at the same time. “Makaaasa ang ASCOT at media na lahat ng concerns ay gagawan paraan. Nandito ang inyong kasundaluhan para masustain ang peace and security sa Aurora,” Lt. Col. Quinto said. Meanwhile, among the future collaborative projects of the ASCOT and 91IB is the conduct of Information Awareness Drive on CTG Youth Infiltration by having a Memorandum of Partnership Agreement.                        

  When it comes to proper segregation of waste, every small action count. This is what leading integrated property developer SM Prime Holdings, Inc. aims to promote through its #SMWasteFreeFuture program which it launched in June, in celebration of the World Environment Day. The program is designed to reduce overall waste generation through effective waste segregation, and enhance waste diversion rate by diverting waste away from landfills through recycling, composting, and other sustainable disposal methods. Bin it right Data from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) reveals that two billion tonnes of municipal solid waste is generated each year.  Unmanaged waste results in a blockage in major drainage and water systems and consequently contributes to massive urban flooding especially during the monsoon season in the country. Effective waste segregation starts with the ability to responsibly separate high-value recyclables from the disposables. SM Prime introduced a new segregation scheme with simple and easily remembered labels: Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable. Shortened as “RDC,” it is a straightforward scheme to understand that all high value recyclable waste goes to one bin to make segregation practical, fast, and easy. Recyclables that are considered high value are plastic bottles, aluminum cans, glass jars, cardboard, and paper. When properly segregated, they may be spared from ending in landfills. Single-use plastic water bottles made from PET, or polyethylene terephthalate, are easily recycled and are considered high value. With every thoughtful toss, reducing waste and conserving natural resources support a sustainable future. The power of collective effort “This is a learning process and it will not be perfect. Being open to new ways of doing things and of putting into action every little step is crucial in advancing waste management solutions. We highly encourage all of you to give us feedback. We are taking a small step towards a long journey,” said Sustainability Champion and SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation President Hans “Chico” T. Sy, Jr. during the launch held at the SM Mall of Asia last June. Sy further emphasized the power of collective effort and encouraged everyone to turn this initiative into a habit. “Now it’s up to you and every individual here in attendance, to embrace the cause of change. We are given the opportunity to work on the biggest problems of our community when the planet truly needs it. Let’s not waste this opportunity,” he added. About #SMWasteFreeFuture #SMWasteFreeFuture is one of SM Prime’s programs on environmental sustainability to encourage green practices in resource management, environmental impact, and the social well-being of the community for a waste-free world. 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 on integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future.      

SM Prime remains committed to ensuring the integration of climate adaptation and sustainability into its projects while expanding partnerships with government and other stakeholders to grow more resilient communities. SM Prime Holdings executive committee chairman Hans T. Sy believes the government and private sector must work together in finding solutions for greater resiliency so disaster risk reduction is one of its core business strategies. “Resilience is not just a word, it is a way of life. It is a commitment to ensure that we act on our responsibility to care for others and that no one is left behind,” Sy said. SM Prime Holdings recently marked its 30th year as a publicly-listed company highlighted by its exemplary track record of sustainable development. He said climate adaptation and resilience are keys to thriving despite damage and losses brought about by climate change, and SM has translated this to action with a significant portion of its capital expenditure allocated to incorporate resiliency and sustainability in its infrastructure designs As an engineer, Sy said he remains passionate about constructing well-designed structures that are not only efficient, but strong and resilient. Sy sits on the Philippine board of ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies of the United Nations, and he is co-chairman of the National Resilience Council, a private-public sector initiative whose goal is to strengthen the resilience of local government units. SM Prime’s mall arm, SM Supermalls, has been leading in climate adaptation through effective mitigation of flood risks in the communities where these malls serve. Liza Silerio, SM Supermalls head for corporate compliance and sustainability, said a prime example is the network of more than 25 rainwater catchment basins strategically positioned in SM malls across the country. These reservoirs act as crucial buffers during heavy downpours, collecting and holding excess rainwater to prevent flooding in surrounding communities. “We’ve seen firsthand how our catchment basins have spared communities around our malls from severe flooding during typhoons like Carina. This validates our commitment to investing in sustainable and resilient infrastructure,” Silerio said. She cited the SM Mall of Asia Complex, designed with a sturdy seawall to protect the surrounding communities from potential storm surges or rising sea levels. The property also uses specialized foundation systems to provide more robust protection against liquefaction and seismic events. The first of catchment basins, built at SM City Masinag in 2011, has a capacity of 17,681 cubic meters – equivalent to over seven Olympic-sized swimming pools. Located underneath the premises of these catchment basin malls, the combined rainwater reservoirs have a total capacity of 85,272 cubic meters, collecting floodwaters and protecting nearby communities. Also, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) recognized SM City Marikina for being a prepared facility during calamities. Its proximity to the Marikina River and the area’s flood history necessitated the mall’s elevation onto 246 concrete stilts, allowing flood water to enter and flow through the structure away from residential areas and avoid damage to the mall itself. SM Supermalls, together with its holding company SM Prime, remain 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 on integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future. Silerio assured that the SM malls have facilities and structures that take into account natural hazards, thus protecting communities around them.