Sunday, May 11, 2025

SM Prime prepares for a resilient future

The effects of the 7.7 magnitude earthquakes in Myanmar and the aftershocks in Thailand continue to be seen months after the events. The ultimate question is asked: Are we prepared for “The Big One”?

As one of the most vulnerable countries to disaster and climate risk, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), the leading integrated property developer in Southeast Asia, continues to reinforce its commitment to disaster resiliency and heightened climate action. 

The role of education

To increase the capacity of readiness within the institution and its communities, SM Prime continues to advocate for emergency preparedness and the general public’s continued education. 

SM Cares, SM Prime’s foundation arm, facilitates the annual Emergency Preparedness Forum to help mallgoers learn about emergency procedures, putting importance on staying calm to reduce panic and anxiety, basic first aid, life-saving techniques, and preparing senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWD) in an actual emergency. 

Collaborations for the climate

In a Climate Fresk Workshop with The Transmutation Principle, SM Prime, together with host SM Hotels, gathered friends from the corporate and non-profit sustainability space to learn more about the science behind climate change–its drivers, mechanisms, and consequences–including mitigation, adaptation, and circular economy principles.

“It was an exciting and valuable experience for us, given our advocacy for climate change resilience. The workshop succeeded in making it more accessible and relatable, particularly for individuals who are already aware of its effects on their respective industries,” says Oscar M. Lopez (OML) Center participant Charmaine Vitan. 

The gamified workshop originated from a French non-profit organization and is based on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports. Facilitated by local Philippine Freskers, it teaches the fundamentals of climate science – mapping key interdependencies between nature, biodiversity and human activities to ‘solve’ the complex narrative of climate change. The workshop was held at the SMX Convention Center Aura. 

“It invited everyone–not just one sector–to collaborate and participate in fields of knowledge that are seemingly not connected at all. To quote a groupmate, the immediate causes and effects of market actions are clear, but the bigger picture is clear when we collaborate with one another,” says World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines participant Joaquin Campos. 

Building a resilient tomorrow 

Always ahead of the curve, SM Prime strategically looks beyond the current industry needs and focuses on what can reduce risk and build long-term value. 

For SM Prime, an Environmental, Social, Governance, and Resilience (ESG + R) strategy ensures that the company is building for the security of future generations. SM Prime continues to focus its efforts on infrastructure resilience, disaster risk management strategies, readiness and swift response, and capacity building to create institutional readiness and help educate and shape public awareness. 

“Resilience is a way of life. It is a commitment to ensure that we act on our responsibility to care for others so that no one is left behind,” said Mr. Hans Sy, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman. 

7 Ways SM Supermalls is Making Earth Day, Every Day

SM Supermalls continues to champion the mindset that sustainability isn’t just a one-day commitment—it’s a lifestyle. In celebration of Earth Day 2025, SM invites everyone to be part of simple, everyday actions that make a big difference for the planet. Through innovative programs, eco-friendly infrastructure, and community engagement, SM’s malls have become leading platforms for greener living.

“Our malls are more than shopping destinations—they’re spaces where people and the planet can thrive together,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. “Through programs that are easy to join, SM makes it possible for every visitor to take part in a more sustainable future.”

Here are 7 sustainable ways SM is turning its pledge into everyday impact—and how you can take part:

1. Plug in Your EV—for Free

With 123 EV charging stations across 69 malls, SM has disbursed over 14,500 kWh of clean electricity to electric vehicle users, with 50 more chargers planned in 2025. It’s free, easy to access, and part of SM’s commitment to low-emission mobility.

2. Walk into Solar-Powered Spaces

SM currently operates 47 malls and properties with solar installations, generating 27.6 GWh of clean energy in 2024 alone—the equivalent of removing over 4,100 cars off the road. With a goal of 100MWp rooftop solar capacity by 2027, more solar rollouts are planned for 2025.

3. Experience Greener Malls with Natural Lighting

From Sky Gardens and skylights that allow natural light to brighten spaces and reduce electricity use, to LED lighting and motion sensor escalators, every corner of the mall is designed with energy efficiency in mind. SM also contributes 110 MW of capacity to the DOE’s Interruptible Load Program.

4. Support a Waste-Free Future

Launched in 2023, SM’s #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign enforces proper waste segregation across all mall tenants through RDC (Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable) bin systems. Internally, SM is also building a culture of sustainability among employees, proving that change starts from within.

5. Turn Trash into Treasure at Trash-to-Cash

Held every first Friday and Saturday of the month, this recycling market has helped exchange over 1 million kilograms of recyclables annually across SM malls nationwide. Visitors can bring paper, plastic, metal, or even old appliances—and exchange them for cash.

6. Recycle Smarter with Plastic and E-Waste Collection

Drop off used plastics at 15 participating SM malls and e-waste bins at Cyberzone areas nationwide. So far, these programs have diverted 63,874 kg of plastics and over 11,000 kg of e-waste from landfills—thanks to partnerships with Friends of Hope and Smart/PLDT.

7. Join Coastal Cleanups that Protect Our Seas

In 2024, over 27,000 volunteers across 15 SM malls helped collect more than 157,000 kg of trash from coastlines and waterways. SM also initiates weekly and quarterly coastal cleanups, proving that when communities work together, the ripple effect reaches far and wide.

How SM Prime’s environmental leadership and innovation are continuously powering a more sustainable future for all

For SM Prime, sustainability is not merely a statement, but a strategic imperative that is deeply embedded in the way the company operates. This is demonstrated in concrete outcomes that reflect the organization’s innovation and leadership when it comes to its environmental efforts, continuously delivering measurable progress in advancing sustainability across its developments.

Anchored in its Net Zero 2040 goals, SM continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental sustainability through the scaled deployment of renewable energy solutions in its properties, integrating solar energy to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and reduce reliance on grid-supplied fossil fuels, while aligning its operations with global climate goals.

As of early 2025, a total of 47 SM Supermalls nationwide are now outfitted with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, generating a combined peak capacity of 63 Megawatts. These systems comprise 118,313 solar panels installed across mall rooftops, contributing to a measurable reduction in carbon emissions and representing a significant benchmark in the advancement of renewable energy adoption within the Philippine commercial real estate sector.

SM Mall of Asia (MOA), one of the company’s flagship developments, exemplifies this commitment through its multi-use rooftop, MOA Sky. Among its features is a solar-covered walkway integrating 555 PV panels, contributing an additional 0.3-Megawatt peak capacity while offering shade to pedestrians. With a total of 11,355 panels now installed, SM MOA’s cumulative solar PV system delivers 3 Megawatts of peak power—enough to operate approximately 1,000 escalators for a day or provide electricity to 1,800 average households for a month.

SM’s renewable energy projects were prominently featured during the 2025 Energy Efficiency Day conference, where SM Engineering, Design, and Development Corporation Vice President Engr. Teodoro Bautista presented the group’s performance and ongoing efforts in operational energy efficiency. The initiative was also a key factor in SM MOA’s recognition as the recipient of the first Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution, organized by the Department of Energy, affirming the commercial viability and environmental value of large-scale solar adoption.

Taste Korea’s Finest: Paldo’s Casual Fine Dining Arrives at SM Podium

Manila just got a taste of royalty with the arrival of Paldo, the first Korean fine dining restaurant in the Philippines, now open at SM Podium. Known for its curated mix of premium dining and experimental concepts, SM Podium is the perfect setting for Paldo’s fresh yet traditional take on Korean cuisine. Owned and brought to life by Ryan Bang, the restaurant delivers a dining experience that’s both casual and refined.

Paldo, which means “eight provinces,” takes its patrons on a journey across South Korea through dishes that represent the country’s rich and diverse food culture. From bold southern flavors to delicate northern specialties, the restaurant brings the heart of Korea to Manila.

At Paldo, the goal is simple: to show Filipinos how kings and queens of Korea once dined, without making it feel intimidating or out of reach. Here, fine dining is made casual and affordable, while still holding on to the elegance and authenticity of royal Korean meals.

Complementing the food is Paldo’s warm and elegant interior, with wood accents and earth tones that transport diners straight to the heart of a traditional Korean setting—perfect for both casual lunches and special dinners. It’s a great fit for SM Podium, offering a unique and elevated dining experience in one of the city’s top lifestyle destinations.

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Find Fresh Favorites in Metro Manila

 In life, there is always more to be had. New possibilities to explore, new experiences to enjoy, new discoveries to love!—the best of living is always right around the corner.

With SM Supermalls, you no longer have to go far and wide to seek out those experiences. From brands you’ve been itching to try to those you’re yet to discover, SM Supermalls connects you to an excitingly fresh new era of firsts—right here in Metro Manila.

Comforting Treats & Game-day Gears at SM Mall of Asia (MOA)

Power up your active lifestyle with these hot new finds:

  • Salomon—legacy outdoor gear and performance footwear perfect for your active hobbies. Enjoy shopping for premium, high-performance equipment at Salomon’s biggest store yet, here in the Philippines.
  • Wilson—bring your A-game to tennis with their first-in-PH store for professional-grade gear and sportswear. 

Soon, experience quality comfort with some tea and locally made bread and pastries with Kiji Bakehouse and Chicha San Chen:

  • Kiji Bakehouse—experience their first-in-SM homegrown bakery goodness, offering a variety of pastries inspired by European and Japanese flavors.
  • Chicha San Chen—take a sip of freshly brewed, authentic Taiwanese tea crafted using specialized techniques through a patented Teapresso machine.

Feel-good Indulgences at SM North EDSA

Enjoy a guilt-free cheat day with this freshly opened sweet treat spot. TangFruits offers a Korean take on the popular tanghulu fruit snack featuring 80% less sugar, perfect for health-conscious foodies with a sweet tooth.

Check out these upcoming stores perfect for your coffee cravings, culinary adventure and skin-care goals:

  • Craft Coffee Revolution—specialty café serving artisanal brews in a cozy ambiance, perfect for both coffee lovers and casual drinkers. 
  • Lan Hot Pot—space-themed hot pot buffet experience culinary adventurers can look forward to.
  • SkinGoals—looking for some rejuvenation? Experience their multi-awarded beauty and wellness services.

Health & All-rounded Wellness at S Maison

Have a taste of these upcoming firsts in SM—top-tier flavors to satisfy your cravings, anytime of the day: 

  • Lartizan—enjoy an exquisite taste of Europe with these French-inspired premium meals, crafted using the finest ingredients and traditional techniques.
  • Brunch Bureau—late for breakfast and too early for lunch? Brunch Bureau has your back with hearty servings of comforting food favorites, perfect for mid-day enjoyment.

Level up your A-game for a healthier, more vibrant you with BioVitalis and its first-in-PH store, offering curated selections of wellness essentials for your health and lifestyle agenda.

You’ll never run out of things to appreciate and love here at SM Supermalls—delivering store after store, each offering limitless possibilities.

What’s new at SM Supermalls? Rediscover every day with the ultimate home to many firsts

Home is comfortable. But with nothing new to try and experience, home can feel ordinary. With SM Supermalls, your everyday life never gets dull! From first-in-the-Philippines dining experiences to new and excitingly fresh shopping destinations, SM Supermalls elevates your everyday adventure by bringing local excellence and world-class sensations closer to you. Whether you’re craving to try out international flavors, aiming to discover rising local gems, or wanting to immerse yourself in cutting-edge lifestyle trends—SM Supermalls is your ultimate home to many exciting firsts.

Home to Authentic Italian Flavors

The finest flavors of Italy are now closer than ever! Rossopomodoro debuts its renowned Neapolitan pizza with its signature charred crust, creamy mozzarella, and San Marzano tomatoes as it opens its first-ever home in Asia at SM Mall of Asia (MOA). Meanwhile, Osteria Antica opens its doors at Level 6, Podium Social – SM Podium, serving authentic Italian dishes crafted with time-honored techniques, set against an equally breathtaking backdrop of interiors. 

Home to Korean and Taiwanese Cuisines

Welcome the richness of East Asian culinary innovations with these exciting new dining destinations. Du Hsiao Yueh headlines its time-honored techniques with its heritage Tainan-style Dan Zai noodles, while Maple Tree House serves popular Korean meals featuring premium grilled BBQ, both located at SM MOA. At SM Podium, Paldo offers an authentic Korean fine dining experience, specially curated by a masterful chef from Korea. Lugang Café, renowned for its authentic Taiwanese cuisine and exceptional dining experience, is excited to announce the grand opening of its first-ever branch in SM Seaside City Cebu. Cebuano diners can now savor the celebrated flavors such as Three-Cup Chicken, Steamed Xiao Long Bao and Crispy Chicken that have made Lugang Café a beloved name. Meanwhile, Leo Pizza at SM City Fairview redefines comfort food with its unique K-style pizza rendition.

Home to Firsts Yet to Come

Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant, an exciting seafood destination, is set to make waves for the first time in SM Supermalls—coming soon to SM CDO Downtown! Nine Pot is set to bring its signature Taiwanese hot pot to SM City Clark, while ramen and sushi lovers can look forward to Yuki-Kun and Ramen Nagi, both opening their first-ever Cebu branches at SM J Mall. For dedicated café lovers, The Matcha Tokyo is coming to SM City Clark, serving authentic and high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha and matcha-infused desserts. Meanwhile, Salon de Thé, a refined café extension of French Baker, is set to open at SM J Mall, offering an elegant escape with a delightful serving of French patisserie. Beyond dining, SM Supermalls continues to introduce new activities to explore with iSwing Golf Arena—an indoor golf experience at SM J Mall.

With unlimited shopping destinations and endless first-time experiences to enjoy, SM Supermalls brings the world closer to you, making every visit fresh, exciting, and unforgettable. SM Supermalls—redefining what it means to experience the world for the first time as your ultimate home to many firsts!

ITALIAN ARTISTRY FROM APERITIVO TO DINING: Discover Osteria Antica, the First in the Philippines at SM Podium


The glow of a wood-fired oven, the scent of slow-cooked sauces, and the comfort of a well-prepared meal—Osteria Antica brings bold Italian flavors to Podium Social at SM Podium. With its warm ambiance, the restaurant stays true to traditional recipes, using fresh, high-quality ingredients with a modern flair.

Whether it’s a casual lunch or intimate dinner, Osteria Antica offers a refined yet comforting taste of Italy in the heart of the city.

The Art of Italian Dining

The Wildflour Hospitality Group brings in a new Italian dining concept with Osteria Antica that brings in the charm of traditional Italian osterias with a fresh take on Italian classics. 

With a Valoriani oven for perfectly baked pizzas and a curated selection of Italian wines and handcrafted cocktails, Osteria Antica stays true to tradition while adding a refined touch. Whether it’s a simple, flavorful pasta or a bold Italian classic, each plate delivers rich Italian flavors.

A New Culinary Destination at Podium Social

A seamless addition to SM Podium, Osteria Antica offers a fresh take on the classic Italian osteria. The restaurant blends tradition with modern touches, creating a space both welcoming and refined. Enjoy the flavors of Italy in an indoor setting adorned with exposed brick walls, wooden tables, leather seats, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, or on a charming veranda with a cityscape backdrop.

With its inviting atmosphere and commitment to personable service, Osteria Antica adds to the growing dining scene at Podium Social, a vibrant space on the 6th floor of SM Podium with the perfect ambiance for dining and socializing, offering a diverse mix of culinary experiences. As more restaurants open in the area, it continues to establish itself as the top spot for quality dining, offering a mix of familiar favorites and new flavors. This expansion highlights SM Supermalls’ commitment to bringing more dining options to Filipino diners in the heart of the city.