Next-generation advanced emergency response provider NGA 911 LLC is among companies offering cutting-edge solutions
MANILA – NGA 911 LLC, the mother company of NGA 911 Philippines/NGCS – the provider of next-generation advanced emergency response in the country — is in town for a trade mission tasked to introduce innovative products, services, and solutions that will contribute to economic growth and sustainable urban development in the Philippines.
Organized by the U.S. Department of Commerce and facilitated by the U.S. Embassy, the Mission aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange between mission delegates and local stakeholders.
Twelve companies offering advanced cutting-edge U.S. solutions for sustainable smart city and infrastructure development met with government representatives to present and discuss innovative infrastructure technologies for local industrial, business, and lifestyle applications.
The businesses include graph-based AI technologies, progressive and comprehensive rail industry solutions, cyber security services, energy services, automotive and manufacturing industries with advanced AI solutions, privacy preserving data-sharing, advanced engineering, construction and project management solutions, mobile app data management and privacy behaviors, and next generation, advanced emergency response.
The trade mission is a follow-up to the highly successful Presidential Trade and Investment Mission to Manila led by Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo on behalf of President Joe Biden last March and will explore local governance practices and urban development strategies in the two countries. It made two stops in the Philippines, one in Manila and the other in Clark City.
NGA 911 LLC, which came into the country in 2018 to explore the introduction of cutting edge public safety solutions that is the standard in the US and Europe, already has its NGA 911 technology in place in next-generation advanced command centers put up in Morong, Rizal; Alaminos City, Pangasinan and Cagayan de Oro City.
Other LGUs like Cebu City and others in key cities are following soon, as more LGUs heed the mandate of the Executive Order 56 to institutionalize 911 as the nationwide emergency hotline and create a unified national emergency system using next generation, advanced technology.
The vision of a unified and integrated 911 emergency response system across the country is swiftly moving towards realization.
Advanced technology from Smart Telecommunications and the Philippine Long-Distance Telephone (PLDT) Company began to enable the seamless routing of 911 calls to the activated Local Command Centers in Morong, Rizal; Alaminos City, Pangasinan; and Cagayan De Oro City in October.
For Smart and PLDT subscribers in these areas, emergency calls are now routed directly to the respective local government unit’s (LGU) Local Emergency Response Centers. The streamlined process eliminates the previous step of routing calls through the Emergency 911 (E911) National Office and results in faster, more direct responses to emergencies.
“The primary mandate of the E911 National Office under the 911 National Program is to provide and ensure improved public safety services to the general public by providing a clear command structure for responsibility and accessibility. We should also facilitate the prompt deployment of a seamless nationwide communication infrastructure for emergency services through the joint efforts of the government, the private sector, and civil society,” said Executive Director Fajardo.
The Executive Director thanked PLDT and Smart for their commitment to ensure that their subscribers have quick and direct access to emergency assistance. Fajardo urged other telecommunications providers to join this life-saving initiative for the greater public’s good, safety, and survival.
NGA 911 Philippines Country Head Rob Llaguno echoed these sentiments, commending PLDT and Smart for facilitating the early routing of their subscribers’ 911 calls to the LGU Command Centers. This significant advancement further speeds up emergency response, enhancing the LGUs’ ability to protect lives and property, Llaguno said.
“We are integration-ready for any telco and eager to work with all concerned to equip our local government units with our NextGen emergency response system that is faster, more responsive, and resilient,” Llaguno added.
Llaguno emphasized the comprehensive support provided to the LGUs they serve, including the Philippine National Police Public Safety Command Center (PNP PCC). “Our services include fully recorded 911 environments, seamless conference and transfer facilities for responders, and advanced mapping and location detection capabilities. Recent statistics indicate that approximately 90% of 911 calls received by the PNP PCC in NCR are met with response times of five minutes or less as a result.”
Do you still remember the lullaby your mother or caregiver sang as they cradled you to sleep? Those cherished melodies hold the essence of childhood memories within their gentle strains, embodying the timeless bond between a nurturer and their child.
Himig Himbing: Mga Heleng Atin, an institutional project of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), invites Filipino people to reminisce and reconnect with the beloved heles that resonate with many, evoking nostalgia and fostering a deeper connection to their roots.
With its strong commitment to conserving and revitalizing Philippine cultures and traditions, CCP adopts a multifaceted approach to reintroducing indigenous lullabies to contemporary audiences and nurturing a deep appreciation for Philippine songs and hele.
First launched in 2022, Himig Himbing has emerged as a transformative force in the local music landscape, emphasizing both indigenous and contemporary Filipino music. The project aims to strengthen cultural identity, connect artists with audiences, and create a vibrant community centered on the nation’s rich musical heritage.
Moving beyond preservation, Himig Himbing encourages cultural innovation by blending traditional music with contemporary styles, producing music videos that resonate with modern audiences while maintaining the cultural context of the lullabies.
To foster a deeper understanding of Filipino folk music and hele, and to create a sense of national identity, pride, and connection to Filipino heritage – especially among younger generations – the CCP has toured the project to various parts of the country, starting with Pangasinan and Antique.
“Maaari nating ibalik ang mga hele na ito na maging bahagi ng ating pang-araw-araw na buhay nang sa gayon ay lalo pa nating makilala ang ating mga sarili bilang Pilipino,” said CCP artistic director Dennis N. Marasigan during the launch at the University of Antique located in the suburban Sibalom.
For its Visayas leg, the CCP, through its Arts Education Department, partnered with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Office of Congressman Antonio B. Legarda, Jr., and the University of Antique (UA) to launch “Himig Himbing: Ang Mga Ambahanun Natun.”
“Sama-sama nating pangalagaan ang yaman ng ating nakaraan at ng ating kultura bilang mga Pilipino,” said Senator Loren Legarda in a video message, emphasizing the responsibility of every Filipino to preserve and promote Philippine indigenous cultures.
The Antique launch featured a series of performances, including a joint rendition of the Bicolano lullaby Katurog Na Nonoy by award-winning guitarist Ivar Nicholas Fojas and dancer Sophia Ailsa Maunahan. Performing artist Arsela Labajo delivered a heartfelt rendition of Dandansoy, a lullaby rooted in Antique.
Homegrown talents from the University Dance Ensemble, Bachelor of Physical Education (BPED) Hublag Icons, and UA Chorale also performed, with soloists Kris Kyler Mission Esposo and Elizabeth Joy Santiago Guerra singing Hele.
UA Chief Administrative Officer Reiner Paul Teologo expressed gratitude for being part of the project, noting that this is the first time national institutions such as CCP and NCCA have collaborated with the state university to implement their mandate of preserving and promoting Philippine arts and culture.
The team behind Himig Himbing, including Marasigan, Arts Education Department head Eva Mari Salvador, project lead Lino Matalang Jr., ethnomusicologist Sol Trinidad, with Rep. AA Legarda provided copies of the Himig Himbing book to the UA Library, received by its librarian Armila Serato and chief administrative officer Reiner Paul P. Teologo.
The highlight of the launch was the special screening of selected Himig Himbing music videos featuring the Bicolano lullaby Katurog Na Nonoy, the traditional Kalinga lullaby Wiyawi, the Visayan lullaby Ili, Ili, Tulog Anay, Bata Alimahi, and Dandansoy, among others.
Filmmaker Arden Rod Condez, a native of Antique, remarked: “It is always special to bring my films to my hometown. Seeing my kasimanwas react to the films I’ve made is always rewarding. My music video for Himig Himbing’s Bata Alimahi is no exception. The song, despite its somewhat painful lyrics, is danceable. Seeing the audience bob their heads to it made me smile. I hope it sparks their interest in discovering more lullabies from other regions and unearthing additional songs from our place, aside from Ili-ili Tulog Anay and Dandansoy.”
Feedback from attendees indicated a strong appreciation for the project, with one audience member noting, “It is amazing to hear how traditional melodies can be reimagined in new ways. With music videos complementing the lullabies, they help us connect with the songs easily and appreciate our heritage more.”
The project does not solely revolve around performances; it also serves as a platform for mentorship and arts education for art-track educators, student teachers, and community members. Over 150 workshop participants engaged in back-to-back workshops before the big launch.
During the Rumorolyong Himig: Film Workshop, Cinemalaya director Jonathan Jurilla shared his insights and creative processes with approximately 50 film enthusiasts, emphasizing that the visual voice should be based on truth and reality, with deep respect for cultures and traditions.
The Himig Himbing at Ako: Creative Expression Workshop, co-conducted by book illustrator Beth Parrocha, ethnomusicologist Trinidad, and medical practitioner-children’s book author Dr. Luis Gatmaitan, immersed participants in self-expression and creativity through arts and music.
The CCP elevated the arts education component to new heights with Himig Himbing extending its engagement beyond individual artists to include students in various aspects of the production.
“Students were actively involved in the production team, gaining valuable hands-on experience in technical theater and production assistance. Additionally, we integrated them into front-of-house duties, providing mentorship in ushering (including onstage escorting assignments) and audience management, further enriching their educational experience,” said CCP associate director Ariel S. Yonzon.
Through this launch, the CCP created a vibrant space for cultural exchanges and arts education. “This grassroots involvement not only helps preserve traditional music but also strengthens community ties. We engage universities, particularly mentors and teachers, because of its multiplier effect in educating our youth about our cultures. Through this outreach approach, we hope to contribute to a thriving cultural ecosystem that supports artistic expression and community engagement,” said Salvador.
With the positive reception of the project and a strong call for continuity in arts education initiatives, the CCP hopes to bring Himig Himbing to other regions in the country, illustrating how arts education can play a transformative role in personal and communal self-understanding.
The Cultural Center of the Philippines is well-positioned to continue its vital mission of promoting arts education, recognizing its profound role in cultural preservation and community empowerment. By building on the success of initiatives such as Himig Himbing, the CCP can help shape a vibrant and culturally rich future for the Philippines.
Camiguin Island — one of the country’s most desired tourist destinations – is taking big steps to make itself safe, resilient, and world-class in its emergency response and disaster preparedness.
Mambajao, the provincial capital, has launched its own next-generation advanced 911 emergency response center that will provide its citizens and tourists the advantages of modern, efficient emergency services related to public safety and disaster preparedness.
The Mambajao local government unit has partnered with NGA 911 the global leader in next-generation emergency response systems currently used in the United States to provide advanced solutions that integrate communication technologies to improve emergency services.
Friday, October 18, the third-class municipality, put up its cutting-edge, first-ever emergency response command center on the friendly island filled with natural wonders of volcanoes, lagoons, lakes, springs, waterfalls, beaches, and scenic seascapes.
Mambajao officials led by Mayor Yñigo Jesus (Yggy) Romualdo said they needed a centralized, advanced emergency response system that could provide real-time coordination and swift action during disasters to minimize the loss of life and property.
The bustling tourist destination faces a growing demand for responsive and reliable emergency services that will ensure the safety of residents and visitors. This became the key motivation to set up the 911 system capable of quickly addressing medical, fire, police, and rescue emergencies, similar to that used in the USA and Europe.
“The increasing availability of new technology and digital infrastructure inspired us to harness the power of that technology to modernize our emergency services characterized by a more efficient, tech-based system that could offer quicker response times, better resource allocation, and seamless coordination between different agencies,” said Mayor Romualdo.
He noted that existing emergency services were limited or fragmented, so local leaders invested in a next-generation 911 center that could centralize response efforts and
improve service delivery across multiple sectors like healthcare, fire response, and public safety.
“As a top tourist destination, the safety and well-being of visitors is paramount. Having an advanced emergency response center adds to Mambajao’s appeal as a safe and secure destination, thus contributing to its economic growth by boosting tourism and investor confidence,” the Mayor added.
He explained that tourism growth in Mambajao made them anticipate an uptick in emergencies – from accidents at popular destinations like beaches, diving spots, and hiking trails to health emergency responses brought about by new viruses and other public health crises. Fires and road accidents, especially those that involve public and tourist transportation, made officials consider an integrated response system that could dispatch emergency services more quickly and accurately.
The municipality took cues from national and international cities that have successfully implemented 911 systems. The proven success of these systems in saving lives and managing emergencies more effectively became the driving force behind the decision to develop Mambajao’s own center, Mayor Romualdo added.
These motivations reflect a broader vision to position the municipality as a forward-thinking, resilient, and safe community that prioritizes the well-being of its people and visitors.
Mayor Romualdo said his big dream for Mambajao is for it to become “a model of excellence in disaster preparedness and emergency response, where every citizen feels safe and secure, knowing that the community is equipped to handle any crisis. We envision a Mambajao that is not only resilient in the face of natural disasters but also proactive, utilizing cutting-edge technology to predict, prepare for, and mitigate risks before they escalate. A state-of-the-art emergency response center would be the heart of this vision, seamlessly integrating services across medical, fire, police, and rescue departments to provide swift and coordinated action.”
“Every barangay would have trained volunteers, supported by a robust communication network that ensures rapid dissemination of information and resources. Whether it’s a typhoon, volcanic activity, a health crisis, or daily emergencies like accidents, Mambajao is known for its efficiency and readiness to respond. This dream encompasses not just survival but the protection of lives, livelihoods, and the continued growth of the municipality as a safe and thriving community,” Mayor Romualdo said.
Robert Llaguno, Country Head of NGA Philippines promised that when Mambajao’s next-generation advanced 911 system becomes operational, all 911 calls to the
Mambajao DRRM Command Center will be fully recorded, with call and call transfer facilities that are seamless. When someone calls 911 the location of that caller becomes immediately known and the search radius is pinpointed with 90% accuracy.
“We are proud and happy to partner with the Mambajao LGU in bringing Next Generation 911 technology of the United States to this island tourist destination. NGA’s unique emergency location features, coupled with our IoT capabilities, provide the CDRRMO with exceptional situational awareness information that will protect the lives of locals, tourists, and responders alike. We are happy to play a role in boosting tourism in this beautiful part of our country,” Llaguno said.
Cebu City, one of the country’s largest cities, is now the first city outside of Luzon equipped to revolutionize its Public Safety with advanced 911 emergency response technology, positioning itself as one of the leaders in emergency management innovations
The Cebu City Government led by Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Neri Garcia launched its next-generation advanced emergency response system on September 30 in the presence of Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Lord Villanueva, E911 National Office Executive Director Francis Fajardo and city officials at the Community Hall, Executive Bldg., Cebu City Hall, MC Briones St., Sto. Niño, Cebu City, Cebu.
Earlier this year the city government partnered with NGA 911 Philippines, the local subsidiary of NGA 911, LLC headquartered in California, USA to have the first comprehensive, integrable emergency response system in this part of the country. NGA 911 is known globally as the innovator of emergency calling technology, and the leader in Next Generation 911 (NG911) emergency communications worldwide.
Built on industry standards adopted by the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) in the United States and the European Emergency Number Association (EENA), the NGA 911 system and technology will revolutionize the way and speed with which Cebu City can handle emergencies.
Cebu City’s new Next-Gen 911 command center’s cutting-edge Call Handling technology, can now help provide quick and accurate caller location data to pinpoint emergency callers’ location within a small search radius of 18 Feet at 90% accuracy. The system also enables GPS of emergency responders so dispatch to the scene is almost simultaneous, ensuring quick arrival, and instilling confidence among residents.
The NGA 911 technology is now fully recorded with conference and transfer facilities seamlessly integrated to address the usual limitations of traditional emergency hotlines. Slow response time, no caller location information and difficulty handling large-scale emergencies with the help of GPS, GIS and advanced call routing is now a thing of the past for Cebu City constituents..
Last August, Secretary Abalos exhorted all LGUs to put up their own emergency response centers equipped with the latest technology to respond swiftly and accurately to emergencies, save lives and property and deliver quality public service.
Mayor Mike Rama and Acting Mayor Alvin Garcia expressed a shared vision for Cebu City, “a safe and secure city.” “Recognizing the critical role that emergency response plays in achieving this goal, we prioritized the implementation of advanced best-in-class 911 technology. This initiative enhances the city’s resilience to natural disasters, it will help lessen crime and other emergencies to foster a more secure environment for our people.”
Cebu City’s NGA 911 command center will also be able to respond to emergency cases beyond the city limits. “While the primary focus will be on serving the residents of Cebu City, the system’s capabilities and the city’s commitment to regional cooperation will allow for assistance to nearby cities and towns in Cebu province,” Acting Mayor Garcia said.
“Other LGUs in Cebu should explore adopting NGA911. LGUs can significantly enhance their emergency response capabilities, leading to faster response times, improved coordination, and greater public safety. The benefits of a world-class emergency response system extend beyond individual LGUs, as it can contribute to the overall security and resilience of the entire province,” Acting Mayor Garcia added.
Rob Llaguno, Country Head of NGA911 Philippines thanked the current administration, through DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos and E911NO Executive Director Fajardo, that 911 is now an integral part of public safety for all Local Government Units.
“We’re a proud partner of Cebu City, bringing in Next Generation 911 technology of the United States to our country. This project marks the beginning of enhanced public safety for Cebuanos, initiated by the Cebu City government. Our unique emergency location services features, coupled with our integrated IoT capabilities, provide the CDRRMO exceptional situational awareness data that will save lives,” Llaguno said.
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.
SM City Baguio’s groundbreaking rainwater treatment facility has treated over 17,000 cubic meters of rainwater into drinkable water.
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.
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.
“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.
Sustainability has become a driving force across every industry. For SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of Asia’s leading integrated property developers, sustainability is elevated through a strategic framework that leverages the company’s extensive operations, significant economic impact, and cultural influence.
SM Prime’s sustainability journey began in the 1990s, focusing on resilience and practicality. The company has always valued substance over style, favoring strategies grounded on real-world application rather than flashy, short-term fixes. Its strategy is built on what truly matters to the business and the community it serves, ensuring that its sustainability efforts are both effective and enduring.
In its 2023 Annual Integrated Report, SM Prime introduced its Sustainability Ambition Roadmap with a clear and powerful message: Together for a sustainable future – aligned with its vision of creating and managing innovative, sustainable, and integrated property developments that enhance the quality of life for all.
SM Prime’s sustainability strategy is built on three main goals: (1) Environmental sustainability, (2) Prosperity for all, and (3) Climate resilience.
Building on its sustainability framework of Economy, People, Planet, and Community, SM Prime identified three major goals to pursue: Environmental sustainability, Prosperity for all, and Climate resilience – all aimed to create a future marked by sustainability, resilience, and widespread prosperity by 2030, 2040, and beyond.
Under its environmental sustainability strategy are two significant programs released by the company: Net Zero by 2040 and #SMWasteFreeFuture.
Net Zero by 2040
SM Prime is committed to enhancing people’s quality of life by intensifying climate action, reducing disaster risks, investing in resilient design, protecting biodiversity, and implementing strategic corporate social responsibility programs, with its main focus on climate action toward a net-zero business. The company has been collaborating with the World-Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature-Philippines to establish science-based targets in alignment with the global commitment of a net-zero ambition by 2050.
“We understand the magnitude of the challenges we face to achieve our Net-Zero commitment. SM Prime is determined to take action and meet its climate commitments. This is one of our top agendas in sustainability,” said Jeffrey C. Lim, SM Prime President and CEO.
SM City Santa Rosa’s solar photovoltaic (PV) system has 5,772 panels at 3.088 MWp capacity and has an annual solar energy production of up to 4.292GWh.
#SMWasteFreeFuture
SM Prime launched its vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture, in support of the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) International Day of Zero Waste. The program introduces a simple segregation scheme: Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC), all aimed at reducing overall waste generation and increasing the waste diversion rate from landfills through sustainable disposal methods. The initiative was launched nationwide for SM employees and across all SM property groups and stakeholders.
SM Prime continues to support existing programs and partnerships that promote better waste management solutions. Initiatives such as SM Supermalls’ Trash-to-Cash recycling market, Plastic Waste Collection and E-Waste Collection programs, and regular coastal and estero clean-up activities effectively engage the community in rethinking their relationship with waste.
To address food waste, SM Hotels and Convention Corporation (SMHCC) has pioneered projects such as The Sustainable Diner with WWF-PH, diverting 198,640 kg of food waste through bokashi composting and 40,013 kg through biodigesters. SMHCC also launched Tela Tales, a program that recycles condemned linens.
SM Prime gathers the community for a #SMWasteFreeFuture.
SM Development Corporation (SMDC) recently partnered with Globe and Scholars of Sustenance Philippines for the Hapag Movement, aimed at targeting food waste and involuntary hunger affecting millions of Filipinos. “As a community, we strongly believe in our ability to contribute to solving today’s waste issues. We understand that this may seem like a daunting challenge to overcome. However, by joining forces, we can create a world that our future generations truly deserve – if we have the courage to take on this journey together,” said Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability champion.
Water Stewardship
SM Prime is committed to water stewardship by implementing innovative water conservation and management practices, ensuring that properties developed are more responsive and adaptable to the changing needs of communities.
Through its sewage water treatment plants, wastewater is processed, preventing contaminated water from polluting local waterways and for reuse. The recycled water is utilized in malls for water closet flushing, air conditioning operations and landscape greening.
SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Filtration Facility addresses water security and ensures a safe and sufficient water supply for the operations of the mall and its tenants.
SM Prime Holdings, Inc.’s Chairman Henry T. Sy, Jr. receives SM Prime’s 30th Listing Anniversary Plaque from the Philippine Stock Exchange’s President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon.
Prosperity for all
SM Prime’s developments serve as catalysts for socio-economic progress, delivering tangible benefits to all stakeholders. Founded by Henry Sy, the company remains committed to his vision of bringing world-class developments to the Philippines. A vision perfectly exemplified through the Mall of Asia Complex which offers a blueprint for future cities that go beyond commercial success to embrace a holistic approach to urban development.
SM Prime celebrated its 30th year as a publicly listed company last July 23, signifying three decades of service and transformative growth in the Philippine real estate industry.
“A solid dedication to collective success marks true leadership. Our journey at SM Prime demonstrates the power of dreaming big and the incredible achievements that follow when you pursue those dreams with determination and hard work.” – JEFFREY C. LIM, SM PRIME PRESIDENT AND CEO
The International Coastal Clean-Up (ICC) is back for another year and is shaping up to be the biggest one yet, taking place simultaneously on September 21 in 15 different SM Supermalls across the country: SM By the Bay at SM Mall of Asia Complex, SM Tuguegarao Downtown, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Bataan, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Olongapo Downtown, SM City Sorsogon, SM City Legazpi, SM Daet, SM City Puerto Princesa, SM City Roxas, SM City Cebu, SM City Seaside Cebu, SM City Mindpro, and SM City General Santos. Together, we can make a significant impact on our oceans and create a cleaner, healthier environment for all.
In 2023, SM Cares recorded more than 100,000 kg of trash collected with the help of an estimated 17,000 total volunteers from 15 SM Supermalls nationwide. This year, in celebration of its 20th year of supporting communities and creating a positive environmental impact, SM Cares aims to double the amount of solid waste collected to 200,000 kg, eyeing a volunteer count of 20,000.
If you’re interested in joining the global movement towards cleaner seas and oceans, SM Cares is inviting you to be part of this year’s ICC!
SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, responsible for initiatives promoting sustainability and community development. SM Cares’ advocacies include programs for Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative and its Programs on the Environment.
As we enter the typhoon season, recent extreme weather events have once again underscored the Philippines’ vulnerability to such conditions.
As the nation grapples with the potential aftermath, it is clear that being part of the global conversation on achieving net zero emissions is imperative. This typhoon has highlighted the urgency for the Philippines to be an active participant in the fight against climate change, not only to mitigate future impacts but to also contribute to global solutions.
The concept of net zero refers to balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere. For the Philippines, a country frequently in the crosshairs of severe weather, achieving net zero is a crucial step towards enhancing climate resilience. The recent typhoon has made it evident that the country cannot afford to be a bystander in the global efforts to combat climate change. Instead, it must be a proactive player, advocating for and implementing strategies that contribute to the global net zero target.
One of the key areas where the Philippines can make a significant impact is by leveraging its abundant natural resources to transition to renewable energy sources. By increasing investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, the nation can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, thereby lowering its carbon footprint.
This transition is crucial for achieving net zero and offers the added benefit of creating a more resilient energy infrastructure less susceptible to disruptions caused by extreme weather.
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. recognizes the equal importance and urgency of both climate change adaptation and mitigation. As part of our strategy, we are investing 10% of our Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) in sustainability and disaster resilience design.
A significant initiative supporting this commitment is SM Prime’s pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. As the country’s leading integrated sustainable property developer, we have committed to the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), a recognized global standard for corporate decarbonization targets. This makes us one of the few corporations in the Philippines to do so. To ensure our near and long-term science-based targets for 2030 and 2040 align with the global commitment to achieve net zero by 2050, SM Prime collaborates with the World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF) through their Corporates for a Better Planet Initiative (CBPI) program.
This ambitious target is supported by concrete actions, such as the installation of onsite solar panels across various properties and strategic partnerships for renewable energy sourcing. These initiatives not only reduce the company’s carbon footprint but also set a precedent for other businesses to follow, demonstrating that sustainable practices can be integrated into core business operations.
Pledging to advance every person’s right to a better quality of life through heightened climate action, disaster risk reduction, biodiversity protection, and our strategic corporate social responsibility programs, this commitment places climate action at the forefront as one of SM Prime’s sustainability agenda.
SM Supermalls have enhanced natural lighting and improved insulation, reducing energy needs for lighting, heating, and cooling, leading to more efficient and environmentally friendly operations.
Using solar panels or other renewable energy sources lowers the carbon footprint, leading to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and decreased reliance on non-renewable energy.
SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable urban development by hosting the 7th annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes (APRU-SCL) 2024 Conference and 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) at SMX Convention Center Aura. This prestigious event, organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), brought together over 300 experts to discuss innovative solutions for building greener and more resilient cities. Focused on the theme “Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation,” the conference highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing urban challenges.
(L-R): Moderator Efraim Roxas, Environmental, Land Use and Urban Planning and Development Bureau (ELUPDB) Director Mylene Rivera, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, and Tohoku University Professor Jeongsoo Yu
SM’s commitment to sustainability was evident through the participation of its top executives. SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan showcased SM Supermalls’ eco-friendly practices and community-focused programs.
“Our malls are more than just shopping centers; they are dynamic public spaces, woven into the daily lives of millions of Filipinos. Our comprehensive environmental sustainability programs are deeply inspired by the vision of our Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. Hans Sy, a tireless advocate for environmental sustainability and disaster resilience,” Mr. Tan said.
SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan highlights the malls’ sustainability initiatives.
He added, “At SM Supermalls, we leverage science and technology to develop innovative solutions that are seamlessly integrated into the design and operation of our malls. We remain committed to leveraging innovation and collaboration to build a greener, more resilient, and more sustainable future for the Philippines.”
SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, shared the company’s vision of creating sustainable integrated properties that foster lively communities.
(L-R): University of the Philippines Los Baños’ (UPLB) Dean Jennifer Marie Amparo, UPLB Chancellor Jose Camacho Jr., Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Chief Executive Thomas Schneider, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay, SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) Conference Director Edgar Reyes Jr., and APRU-Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Director Yekang Ko
National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr. highlighted SM’s role in disaster preparedness. He presented “From Risk to Resilience: The Work of the National Resilience Council in Risk Governance” where he introduced the Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP), NRC’s approaches and tools and how risk governance is supported by the sciences.
National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr. showcases SM Supermalls’ resilient infrastructure.
SM Prime’s commitment to sustainability was further emphasized during a breakout session on creating connections and partnerships, hosted by Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch. Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF)-Philippines, underscored the significance of collaboration: “Any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors.”
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.
Philippine Updates 