SM Prime Invests in Future Sustainability Leaders with Scholarship Program

Future sustainability leaders. Strengthening its commitment to both educational access and sustainability stewardship, SM Prime welcomes ten scholars from UPLB, who are taking up degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry.

Inspired by the late Henry Sy Sr.'s belief in the power of education and driven by their commitment to sustainability, leading integrated property developer SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) has launched a scholarship program in partnership with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).

Aptly called the & "SM Sustainability Scholarship" the initiative reflects SM Prime's commitment to both educational access and sustainability stewardship.

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The program will fully support ten deserving students through their undergraduate studies at UPLB, providing them with the opportunity to pursue degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry. These fields align with SM Prime's focus on building resilient communities and fostering a sustainable future.

The scholarship recipients, meticulously chosen for their academic excellence and dedication to sustainability, were formally recognized during a meet-and-greet gathering at UPLB, marking the start of their journey as SM Sustainability Scholars. 

SM Sustainability Scholarship. In the photo are the SM sustainability scholars with the University of the Philippines Los Baños’ Office of Scholarships and Grants Director Assoc. Prof. Ariel L. Babierra, Ph.D., College of Forestry and Natural Resources’s Prof. Marilyn Combalicer, College of Human Ecology Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr, Janette Malata-Silva, Scholarship Affairs Officer Ivy Salarde and SM Prime AVP Rida Reyes-Castillo with the rest of the SM team.

Each scholar will receive a full scholarship covering tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and a book allowance, ensuring they can focus on their studies without financial worries.

During the gathering, College of Human Ecology (CHE) Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo expressed that the pursuit of sustainability is most effectively undertaken collaboratively.

“CHE is one of the colleges that puts a premium on interdisciplinarity and trans-disciplinarity because we believe that in sustainability, you don’t work in silos. We need to work together and build each other’s skills, know-how, and also our programs together to ensure sustainability,” she said.

“I would also like to thank SM Prime for putting emphasis on this scholarship. SM Prime did not just provide the finances or scholarship. They invested the time to really meet our scholars and provided other support mechanisms to ensure that our scholars thrive in their academic lives. This is also a manifestation of SM’s commitment to sustainability by really developing our future sustainability leaders,” she added.

College of Forestry and Natural Resources’ Prof. Marilyn Combalicer also extended the college’s support to the scholars on behalf of the college’s dean, Dr. Marlo Mendoza: “We hope to continue nurturing such meaningful collaboration and initiatives that enhance our educational experience and initiatives for our students. Rest assured that we will continue providing support to our students in ensuring their growth and success in both academia and beyond.”

SM Prime’s AVP Rida Reyes-Castillo meets the SM sustainability scholars.

Meanwhile, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Corporate Communications, Rida Reyes-Castillo, echoed that the fundamental values of the company are intricately interwoven with both education and sustainability.

“SM Group’s founder, Mr. Henry “Tatang” Sy, Sr. believed that education is a great equalizer, and he envisioned that sending one child to college would create ripples of social good not just for families but for an entire community,” she said. “The improvement of the well-being of the youth and the partner communities is something that we at SM invest in.”

For decades, the SM group has embraced the responsibility to contribute to nation building through social good programs that are geared towards quality education, sustainable agriculture, healthcare, and disaster response. By helping improve the quality of life of the people in these host communities, social development and investment go hand in hand with business growth to achieve a better future for all.

Henry Sy Foundation Promotes Inclusive Education (Revitalizing the Philippine School for the Deaf)

Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) hand signs a gratitude message to Henry Sy Foundation (HSF), Department of Education, and Pasay Local Government after they collaborated for the revitalization of the 12-room laboratory building of Senior High School students.

The Philippines’ Magna Carta for Disabled Persons ensures the rehabilitation, self-development, and self-reliance of persons with disabilities. The country provides educational assistance to people with disabilities from primary to tertiary education, including vocational or technical training.

One such school is the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) in Pasay City. For over a century, the school had demonstrated the transformative power of education in empowering and unlocking the capabilities of those with diverse disabilities to live fulfilling lives.

Though standing as a testament to the Philippines' long-standing commitment to differently-abled education, the school, one of Southeast Asia's oldest institutions for the deaf, suffers from the effects of time and wear, compromising its ability to fulfill its mission.

The school lacked basic facilities and accessibility features: converted classrooms, timeworn corridors, limited space for vocational training, inadequate furniture, dilapidated walls and ceilings, broken tiles and faucets, and dim lighting. It was also prone to flooding due to drainage problems, and it had only one functional toilet with a broken door infested by termites.

Revitalizing a legacy

In a transformative partnership, the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI), and the Department of Education's Schools Division Office of Pasay City joined forces to breathe new life into the Senior High School building and a four-story, 12-classroom structure. This initiative, executed under the DepEd's adopt-a-school program, stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in revitalizing educational infrastructure for the benefit of the community.

Teachers conduct lectures on electronics in a more conducive laboratory after the rehabilitation of the school building

Previously hindered by infrastructural limitations, the century-old school now features enhanced learning spaces dedicated to various subjects, including dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending, food & beverage preparation, ICT, and dance. A dance studio with a dressing room and a conference room were also refurbished.

Through the social good collaboration, the laboratory for baking and cookery has been equipped with new tools and furniture, helping conduct more hands-on classes.

To enhance safety and accessibility, ramps and railings were installed throughout the campus, ensuring ease of movement for all students. Aside from revitalizing 10 classrooms, the SM group also refurbished the conference rooms, and the lobby with a reception area to provide a comfortable environment.

Differently abled students from PSD focus as they attend their beauty and cosmetology class in their new building.

Helping instill good hygiene and encourage healthy habits, a handwashing station, and separate male and female toilets were rehabilitated with clean, functional cubicles, urinals, and PWD-friendly facilities.

The covered court was restored with a spacious stage, creating a conducive space for outdoor learning and recreation.

The rehabilitation of the facilities at the PSD was undertaken, not just to address the physical challenges but also to cultivate an environment where every student can thrive. The project stands as a testament to the SM and Henry Sy Foundations’ continued pursuit of inclusivity and its commitment to empowering differently-abled individuals through education.

SM Foundation school building program head Juris Soliman and SMFI Project Supervisor Ar. Caren Lopez (fourth and fifth from left) with PSD Principal Shery Funcion and SDO Pasay City SGOD Sylwyn Tenorio (sixth and seventh from left) with the team behind the school’s refurbishment.

A Moment that Changed Lives (SM scholars recall the beginning of their SM scholar journey)

Some moments fade with time, certain experiences leave an indelible mark, shaping not just our paths but our very identities. For Atty. Marmie Deniega and Amanda Hora, the SM scholarship application wasn't just a gateway to education; it was the moment that shaped the life they live today. 

The first to obtain a degree in the family

A family legacy, SM scholar Amanda Hora becomes the first in her family to earn a degree.

Amanda’s unforgettable story as an SM scholar began when she stumbled upon a Facebook post about the SM scholarship application.

“It has always been my dream to pursue a quality education without the burden of tuition expenses. I enrolled in a university in Senior High School because of a scholarship, and I know that the only way to continue my college years at the same university is to obtain another full scholarship. That is why I never hesitated to apply for the SM scholarship, hoping to be accepted,” she said. 

In the quiet hours of the night several years back, an email from the SM Foundation lit up her phone’s screen, informing her that she had been selected for their scholarship program.

The acceptance was a mark that she was a few steps away from fulfilling another goal: “I pursued college because I wanted to become the first in our family to get a college degree.”

“My parents did not finish their studies due to financial difficulties, but they’ve always been supportive of my dreams and aspirations. Also, I believe in the importance of quality education. It is something that nobody can take away,” she added.

Amanda snaps a photo with her family as she graduated cum laude with a degree in BS accountancy in 2023.

The scholarship opened doors throughout her college years. Beyond the academic realm, she had the opportunities to join competitions, intern at prestigious firms, and build a network that extended far beyond the classroom.

She shared: “As a scholar, the foundation’s programs and webinars allowed me to hear inspiring stories from other scholars, mentoring and motivating us to pursue our goals. When COVID-19 affected the country and whenever there were calamities, the SM Foundation looked after us. They provided us with tools that are essential for remote learning. It made me feel that I am part of a bigger family and that I am not alone in this journey.”

These experiences paved academic and personal growth. As she graduated cum laude with a degree in BS accountancy in 2023, she aims to contribute to the community by creating a ripple effect of kindness.

“I would use my knowledge to find ways to provide livelihood programs, especially in areas or communities where it is much needed. I would also advocate for financial literacy to help people effectively manage their finances and build resilience, especially during unpredictable life events. I would also use my story to inspire the youth, especially the current and future scholars, and remind them to never give up on their dreams,” she shared.

Scholar makes an impact on the community

Atty. Marmie Deniega (fifth from left) with her colleagues from IBP-Cebu Chapter.

Much like Amanda is CPA-lawyer Marmie Dyan Deniega.

Raised by a single mother amid financial struggles, the pursuit of a college degree seemed like an unattainable dream until she chanced upon a TV commercial that introduced her to the SM College Scholarship.

Recalling vividly the moment, she shares: “My mother and I were watching the television. The commercial for SM Foundation came in, and the application deadline was flashed through the screen. Coincidentally, it was on that day itself, so I rushed and submitted my application at the nearest SM Mall."

The scholarship became the cornerstone of Marmie's academic success. She graduated with cum laude honors in Accountancy from the University of San Jose-Recoletos, crediting the scholarship for providing not only financial support but also the freedom to focus on her studies.

The scholarship not only shaped her academic journey but also fueled a sense of responsibility, which proved valuable when she pursued a law degree with the help of her aunt and part-time jobs.

Now successful in her field, Atty. Marmie travels and enjoys various leisure activities. Beyond this, she is thankful to have the capability to support her family.

Now, she proudly serves as an Attorney III at the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) of Mandaue City, actively contributing to her community's development. She is one of the people who played a pivotal role in streamlining business permit processing in their city, making it more accessible to constituents.

As a firm believer in spreading social good, she finances the education of her siblings while actively engaging in community-based projects. She also stands as a resource speaker in schools for several crucial topics, such as the Anti-Bullying Law.

Apart from legal aid work in far-flung areas in Cebu, through the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Cebu Chapter, she also volunteers with Law Inc., an organization helping victims of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC). She conducts seminars across various locations in Cebu, shedding light on the intricacies of VAWC.

In the confines of her office, clients naturally turn to her for legal advice, seeking guidance on various matters: “It cannot be helped that clients will also seek legal advice from me, hence I also make it a point to help them, to the best of my ability, and within the boundaries set by law."

Amanda and Marmie's stories are not just individual triumphs but testaments to the impact of education. Each year, countless dreamers like them are empowered to pursue their academic aspirations and chart their paths to success through the SM College Scholarship Program.

As the application for the SM College Scholarship Program opens from Feb. 1 to March 31, 2024, countless more lives stand to be touched.

SM Prime Explores Potential Partnership with Japanese Firm for Waste-to-Fuel Solutions

Leading real estate developer in Southeast Asia, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Japan’s GUUN Co. Ltd. to explore a potential partnership to implement waste management solutions by recycling waste paper and plastics as an alternative source of energy called ‘fluff fuel’.

Fluff Fuels are one type of RDF (Refuse Derived Fuel) which are produced from shredded and compressed plastics, papers, and fibers. These are used as fuels in cement manufacturing, paper mill companies, or power companies in Japan.

SM Prime Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans T. Sy is positive that a partnership with GUUN will contribute to the waste reduction goals of the country. “Today, Japan’s waste management and recycling technology is among the most advanced in the world,” he said. “There is no better partner for SM because we do not just talk about being big, we make sure we do it; we do not talk about being environment friendly but we do take bold steps to save the environment. I am looking forward to growing with GUUN as among leaders in solving environmental issues in the Philippines.”

GUUN Co., Ltd., founded in March 2001 and headquartered in Yokohama City, Japan, piloted the production of fluff fuel from plastic waste in Inayawan, Cebu in 2014 and recently inaugurated its P200-million, 2,400-square meter waste recycling plant in Tayud, Consolacion, Cebu. 

Since then, Japan’s Ministry of the Environment has adopted GUUN’s waste-to-fuel technology as a model for advanced low-carbon technology innovation for further deployment in developing countries.

“This will be a milestone partnership for us,” GUNN Chief Executive Officer Shinji Fujieda said after the signing ceremony. "I understand very much how important waste management is for SM and for the Philippines and we look forward to more projects we can do with the properties of SM Prime.”

SM Prime’s initiatives for waste management include waste reduction and effective waste collection and segregation. Over the years, it has implemented programs such as Trash to Cash, Plastic Waste Collection, and E-Waste Collection that have contributed to reducing the total solid waste generation across its real estate portfolio. 

Through its pioneering Trash to Cash recycling market, SM Prime has collected and recycled 1.4M kg of plastics, paper, metals, and others in 2022. “We have saved 16,766 trees from the 986,222 kg of paper recycled,” SM Prime disclosed in its 2022 Integrated Report to shareholders. 

Meanwhile, SM’s Plastic Waste Collection program, a partnership with the Plastic Credit Exchange that was launched in February 2021, has accumulated 42,541kg of plastic waste from 14 mall sites. Also present in all its 83 SM Supermalls is the E-Waste Collection program for the responsible disposal of WEEE (Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment). This drive has helped process close to 7,000 kilograms of e-waste.

Water Sustainability: Leading the Change at SM Supermalls

The ripple effect of the water crisis has reached every part of the globe. According to the World Wildlife Fund, some 1.1 billion people worldwide lack access to water, and a total of 2.7 billion find water scarce for at least one month of the year. Worst, two-thirds of the global population may face water shortages by 2025 and ecosystems will suffer.

As the gravity of these issues becomes increasingly apparent, several countries have taken significant steps to forge a more sustainable future for the Earth. Noteworthy examples include Singapore's water management plan and The Netherlands' intricate conservation practices.

Singapore’s Desalination Plan

Source: https://www.pub.gov.sg/watersupply/fournationaltaps/desalinatedwater 

The Delta Works in The Netherlands was built by Rijkswaterstaat to protect the country against flooding from the North Sea. 

Source: https://www.water-technology.net/projects/delta-works-flood-netherlands/  

Inspiration for the Philippines

In the Philippines, a multifaceted approach has also been embraced by the public and private sectors in safeguarding and managing water resources. SM Supermalls are at the forefront of the conservation and management of water resources in its mall facilities. Its endeavors form the foundation of a more sustainable and water-secure future that the company has long been advocating.

SM's Vision: Greening the Future

SM has been recycling water since the 1990s, treating an average of 1 billion gallons of water annually in recent years, equvalent to 1,600 Olympic-sized swimming pools. In line with the SM Green Movement, SM has been continuously working towards responsible consumption and water conservation in its properties.

To illustrate, the SM Supermalls’ comfort rooms have smart fixtures to manage water flow. There are also signages in the mall that advocate wise water use. Wastewater is channeled to the malls’ sewage treatment plants that recycle an estimated total of 4 million cubic meters of water, lessening their dependence on freshwater sources for non-potable uses. SM did this even before the measure was required by way of the Clean Water Act in 2004.i

SM Mall of Asia has been involved in various sustainability and environmental initiatives, including water recycling among others.

SM Supermalls utilizes recycled wastewater from the mall for irrigating its gardens.

SM Malls have “Save Water” signages that typically aim to create awareness about water conservation and inspire people to take simple actions to reduce their water consumption

Recently, SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio. This facility can turn collected rainwater into potable water for mall tenant use such as washing and cooking as well as dishwashing and handwashing, allowing the mall to further lessen its dependence on the freshwater supply of the Baguio community.

SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio.

The Rainwater Treatment Facility at SM City Baguio Baguio City Mayor Benjamin

Magalong (right) samples the potable water from the SM Baguio rainwater

treatment facility with SM SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin (left) and SM

VP for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza Silerio (center).

SM's dedication aligns with the world’s environmental sustainability and climate action goals. Rainwater catchment basins in flood-prone areas and the rainwater filtration in SM Baguio further exemplify this commitment. These significant efforts underscore the ongoing need for sustainable practices and policies.

A Brighter Future Ahead

The journey towards sustainable water management is ongoing. SM Supermalls, through its initiatives, paves the way for a greener, more secure future. 

Learn more at SM Cares  or follow SM Supermalls on social media.

The Rainwater Treatment Facility at SM City Baguio, Baguio Mayor Benjamin Mangalong (right) samples the potable water from the SM Baguio rainwater treatment facility with SM SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin (left) and SM VP for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza Silerio (center).

SM Scholars Aspire to Share the Gift of Education

 

New SM scholars recently joined the contract signing event in Pasay.

 

"I desire to become an educator not just to fulfill a dream but also to be a blessing to the next generation." 

 

These inspiring words come from 18-year-old Princess Eunice Motel, an SM scholar currently pursuing her education at the Philippine Normal University. She is one of two children of Hildajane, an on-call factory re-packer, and Richard, a set man, hailing from Caloocan City. 

 

Princess' dream of becoming a teacher has been a lifelong aspiration, deeply rooted in her heart and mind since her childhood. This calling became even more pronounced when she embraced her Christian faith. 

SM Scholar and aspiring educator Princess Eunice Motel

 

"My unwavering commitment to becoming a teacher is directly inspired by the Kidz Life Ministry, a cherished initiative of our church dedicated to teaching children about God's word. I aspire to be a vessel for sharing knowledge, instilling hope, and nurturing a brighter future for the next generation," she said.

 

To pursue her dreams, Princess has chosen to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education at the Philippine Normal University, her dream institution. "PNU is renowned for its ability to nurture exceptional teachers," she remarked. "As I aspire to become an educator, I also strive for greatness and excellence, and there's no better place to achieve that than at PNU."  

Following in her mother's footsteps, Jhona Bolinas is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Education with English as her major. Born in Baliuag, Bulacan, she passed entrance exams at other universities but opted to enroll at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela due to its proximity to her family.

 

Despite considering other career paths, Jhona opted education, drawing inspiration from her mother, who is also an educator. "Watching, observing, and listening to her, I learned the basics," she shared. Driven by her love for reading and writing, she also chose to specialize in English. 

 

When asked if she plans to work abroad after graduation, Jhona keeps her options open, recognizing it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. "But right now, I want to ensure that my mother enjoys a good life before making such a significant decision," she explained.  

 

Another aspiring educator is Krissa May Oquindo. Her father, a cable technician, is the family's sole breadwinner while her mother dedicates her time to caring for the family. Krissa completed her senior high school education at the Universidad de Manila. She applied to four State universities and ultimately chose to enroll at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), known for producing graduates highly sought after by employers, as per a recent survey. 

 

SM scholar Krissa May Oquindo (right) aspires to be a teacher for her family and community.

When asked about her motivation to become a teacher, Krissa responded, "Being an educator has always been my passion. From the moment I set foot on a school campus, the idea of standing in front of students and sharing knowledge excites me." She has selected Science as her major to deepen her understanding of the subject and to enlighten others about it. 

 

Krissa has no plans to teach abroad. She believes that while there is demand for teachers overseas, the same holds true in the Philippines: "My passion for teaching is rooted in caring for the next generation, especially for the youth of our country."

  

Through the years, the SM college scholarship program has empowered 3,791 graduates who have enrolled in over 120 partner colleges and universities across the nation. These scholars enjoy full tuition benefits, monthly allowances, part-time work opportunities during semestral and Christmas breaks, job offers from the SM Group upon graduation, and engaging activities and enrichment programs. 

 

Additionally, SM's tech-voc scholarship program has produced 4,669 graduates, further contributing to the development of skilled professionals in various fields. 

 

To learn more, please contact: 

Victor Persius F. Chan

SAVP for Corporate Affairs & Sustainability

(632) 8857-0100 local 0117

victor.chan@sminvestments.com

SM Group Turns Over 104th School Building

SM scholars from Roxas City volunteer to clean the new school building ahead of its turnover.

In time for the school year opening, SM Prime through SM Foundation turned over a fully furnished two-storey building to the President Manuel Roxas Memorial Integrated School-South in Roxas City, Western Visayas.

The 104th school building made through the collaboration is built in accordance with specifications set by the Department of Education (DepEd). It holds four classrooms, each furnished with desks, chairs for left-handed students, toilets per classroom, including a special toilet for PWDs on the ground floor.

It also includes concave blackboards, electric fans, and LED lighting. Emergency lights were installed in the stairways for emergency-preparedness.

Supporting DepEd’s commitment to ensure that learners have access to water for hygiene and sanitation, SM Foundation installed a handwashing facility along with liquid soap for the community’s use.

To further assist, the SM group will help with the maintenance and upkeep of the said school.

Social Good 

SMFI School Building head, Juris Soliman (center) leads the preparation if the school building turnover. 

It was earlier announced by DepEd that roughly 21 million students enrolled this school year 2023-2024. Amidst this, the agency reported that only over 100,000 out of the more than 300,000 school buildings are in good condition.

Believing in the power of education in uplifting communities, SM Foundation has been an active member of DepEd’s Adopt-a-School Program since 2002, turning over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities nationwide. The said program intends to address overcrowding in schools and provide an environment conducive for learning.

Victor Persius F. Chan  

SAVP for Corporate Affairs and Sustainability  

(632) 8857-0100 local 0117  

victor.chan@sminvestments.com