GMA Network, Inc., the country's leading broadcast media company, has been recognized as the No. 1 employer in the Media and Communications sector in Prosple Philippines’ Top 100 Graduate Employers for Fresh Graduates list. The Network also secured the 34th spot across all industry sectors.

Prosple Philippines is a resource platform that helps students discover the next step in their career journey. Launched in Australia in 2015, its prestigious Top 100 Employers for Fresh Graduates list has since expanded to the Asia-Pacific region (APAC), recognizing top employers in these countries based both on popularity and quality.

"As we celebrate our 75th year, we are more committed than ever in nurturing a culture of mentorship and development, ensuring that our people are given every opportunity to thrive and excel. We attribute this recognition to the selfless men and women of the Kapuso Network, who have always shown unwavering commitment and steadfast dedication in promoting the best in every Filipino,” says GMA Network First Vice President for Human Resources Gerrome Y. Apolona.

With its unwavering commitment to mentorship and professional growth, GMA Network continues to strengthen its position as a broadcast media company that builds not just careers but also the future of Philippine media.

For more news and updates, visit www.GMANetwork.com.

As Pascual Laboratories, Inc.’s (PascualLab) flagship brand, Poten-Cee, celebrates over five (5) decades of serving the vitamin C needs of Filipinos, it continues to carve milestones in the health industry. At the 60th Anvil Awards at the Manila Hotel, PascualLab received a Silver Anvil from the prestigious PR Society of the Philippines (PRSP) for Poten-Cee's 50th-anniversary campaign, #FiftyFortifiedandForgingForward.

#FiftyFortifiedandForgingForward celebrates 50 years of Poten-Cee which began as pedia brand Infan-Cee. Originally launched to offer vitamin C supplementation, the brand has since evolved to meet the health requirements of various individuals and has adapted to the Filipinos' diverse health and lifestyle needs, including immunity support as brought to the fore by the recent pandemic. The campaign for internal and external audiences highlighted these innovations across various media platforms, including digital and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

For successfully capturing the milestones and meaningfully engaging stakeholders who helped shape Poten-Cee into the well-loved brand that it is today, the campaign met the award-giving body’s strict criteria.  It was then shortlisted among a record-breaking 586 entries, with only 122 or 20% making the cut, earning PascualLab its first Anvil.   

According to Mickey de Quiros, Anvil Committee Chairman: “While the volume of entries is impressive, we must remember that the Anvil Awards have always stood for one core principle—integrity. The true value of an Anvil lies not in the number of awards given, but in the quality of the work. So, as we honored winners, we are reminded that the recognition is a reflection of the impact they have on the communities and industries they serve. It is about creating meaningful change through well-crafted, thoughtful, and strategic campaigns.”   

This 2025 and forging forward, Poten-Cee affirms its commitment to Filipinos.    

Valerie Anne T. Sison, Group Product Head shared: “Quality and care are at the heart of PascualLab’s service. With Filipinos’ health needs front and center, Poten-Cee, will continue to move forward with health innovations tailor-fit for customers’ needs, offering benefits beyond immunity.  We always go forward, true to our 50th-anniversary mantra.”   

Poten-Cee is available in all leading drugstores and supermarkets nationwide and at PascualLab’s official Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok stores.

https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/pascuallab/?path=index.htm  

https://shopee.ph/buyer/login?next=https%3A%2F%2Fshopee.ph%2Fpascuallabstore

https://www.tiktok.com/@officialpascuallab

Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc., together with Dialysis Philippines Support Group (Dialysis PH), Kidney Transplant Association of the Philippines (KITAP), and Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO), is bringing It Starts With U: Get CheCKD back in time for the holiday season. The awareness event will be on November 30, 2024, at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque City.

It Starts With U: Get CheCKD aims to raise awareness of chronic kidney disease (CKD) through activity zones that emphasize early detection and explain how the risk of Type 2 Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases like Heart Failure are amplified with the presence of one of these three diseases.

"The alarming rise in Chronic Kidney Disease cases in the Philippines calls for immediate action. Every hour, a Filipino faces the possibility of chronic renal failure, and over 2.3 million are already living with this silent disease. Events like this are crucial for raising awareness and encouraging early detection, which can save lives and improve health outcomes," says Dr. Greta Cortez, Head of Medicine at Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines.

CKD is connected to other health conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes. Kidney disease is one of the first complications to develop when the heart cannot pump blood efficiently to the body.[ Healthline. Why Congestive Heart Failure and Kidney Disease Often Occur Together. https://www.healthline.com/health/kidney-health/chf-and-kidney-failure. Accessed Oct 23, 2024.] Diabetes, meanwhile, may also cause CKD as high blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the kidneys and the heart.[ American Kidney Fund. Heart disease and chronic kidney disease (CKD). https://www.kidneyfund.org/all-about-kidneys/risk-factors/heart-disease-and-chronic-kidney-disease-ckd. Accessed Oct 23, 2024.]

It Starts With U: Get CheCKD will raise awareness of CKD and its connections to hypertension and diabetes through educational talks and new booths focused on the two diseases. There will also be a booth where Boehringer Ingelheim will feature their educational website which aims to empower individuals with information about chronic kidney disease (CKD) and related health conditions. It offers valuable insights on prevention, risk factors, and complications, encouraging patients to take proactive steps toward better health and seek professional care when needed.

It Starts With U: Get CheCKD will also bring back the activity zones that made the first awareness event successful.

The Movement CheCKD Zone will encourage guests to lead a healthier lifestyle through live Zumba and POUND® sessions. Visitors may complement their active lifestyle at the Nutrition CheCKD Zone, where healthy food stations will offer kidney-healthy snacks. The Health CheCKD Zone will feature health and lifestyle stations where guests can check their vitals, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature, and have one-on-one consultations with doctors. If determined to be at risk for CKD, patients can avail the free two-step screening process for kidney health.

Visitors may also play Check Your Choices, a life-sized board game that offers a fun learning experience on how kidneys work and how they may care for it.

Monitor your health

There is a simple 2-step screening process to check kidney health. First is the creatine test, a blood test that is able to measure the waste product of the body and from that the estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) rate can be computed. The second is the urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR) test that uses a urine sample to measure albumin, or protein level present in your urine.[ National Health Service. Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosis. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/diagnosis/. Accessed Mar 7, 2024]

Two primary conditions that often lead to CKD are diabetes and hypertension. Lifestyle factors such as age, smoking, family history of CKD, and obesity also put individuals at risk of CKD. Unhealthy lifestyles may also cause you to eat foods high in sugar and sodium, be exposed to constant stress, or keep you from moving your body.

This Christmas, give your loved ones the gift of health. Consult your doctor. For more information, please visit ItStartsWithYou.com.ph.

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.

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, guided by a focus 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.

“True leadership is marked by a solid dedication to collective success. 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

From left to right, top to bottom: World Vision team headed by Public Affairs Manager David Rioferio surprised team PascualLab headed by SVP and Chief Manufacturing Officer Higinio “Jun” Porte with a Certificate of Appreciation for the four-year partnership; Team PascualLab toured students from a World Vision-assisted community to an immersive tour of the government-certified facility in Bulacan; volunteers shared PascualLab’s history of innovation at the museum; and Team World Vision vouches for the #PascualLove, evident in the activity.

Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab) and international charitable institution World Vision’s partnership took an exciting turn on June 4 as one of the top pharmaceutical companies in the Philippines’ welcomed sponsored youth to an exclusive tour around the company’s manufacturing plant. PascualLab volunteers and sponsors took the students ranging from elementary to high school through an immersive trip at PascualLab’s Quality Assurance, Warehouse, and Production areas as well as a trip down memory lane to PascualLab’s rich history of innovation.

In his welcome speech SVP and Chief Manufacturing Officer Higinio “Jun” Porte inspired the students to pursue their dreams whether small or big, be it in the health industry or outside of it. World Vision Interim National Director Jun Godornes through Public Affairs Manager David Rioferio shared: “Our long years of partnership with PascualLab has significantly helped improve the well-being of the most vulnerable children through programs in health and nutrition, education, including values formation and spiritual nurture, child protection and participation, savings and livelihood, disaster preparedness, and emergency response. Major Donor Engagement Specialist Monseratt Luna specified: "Thank you for not just allowing but providing the lens for these children to see the world in your perspective, enabling them to be educated in the field of pharmaceuticals and the impact it has on improving lives." Fellow Specialist Christine Penaojas, ended: “We truly felt the #PascualLove through this well-organized trip that enlightened us too on how we’re so aligned in values because of injections of faith all throughout.” PascualLab and World Vision encourage interested participants to sponsor children via https://www.worldvision.org.ph

What better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than with the gift of wellness? This is why PLDT mobile services arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has teamed up with digital healthcare platform mWell to enable subscribers to redeem a Smart Health Pass, which can be used for essential health services.

Exclusively available to all Smart Prepaid, Smart Postpaid, TNT, Smart Bro, and PLDT Home Wifi subscribers starting May 10 to May 16, 2024, the Smart Health Pass may be redeemed by users for only 199 GigaPoints on the Smart App.

Originally priced at Php399, the health pass may be used to avail of a doctor e-consultation, lab request, FREE medical e-certificate, and FREE accident insurance worth P20,000 valid for one month.

To enjoy this exclusive offer, subscribers may follow these steps:

1. Sign up or log in to the Smart App, which is downloadable on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery;

2. Go to the GigaPoints section and redeem the Smart Health Pass for only 199 GigaPoints.

3. Wait for your unique code on the Smart App upon successful redemption

4. Sign in to your mWell App account or download the mWell app and sign up for an mWell account to ENTER the code.

“Our partnership with mWell for this exclusive offer underscores our commitment to bridge technology and wellness so our customers are empowered to truly live more today. We encourage our subscribers to make the most of this opportunity to gift their mothers with peace of mind and wellness,” said Alex O. Caeg, Head of Consumer Wireless Business-Individual at Smart.

“At the heart of mWell lies our passion for making health and wellness accessible, available, and affordable to anyone, anytime, anywhere. With the Smart Health Pass, Smart subscribers can provide their mothers with all-in-one access to mWell’s health and wellness features, including the mWellness Score, Mind Health Score, and 24/7 Teleconsult. The Health Pass makes for a perfect gift for our mom heroes who deserve nothing but the best,” said Chaye A. Cabal–Revilla, Chief Executive Officer of mWell.

Smart subscribers nationwide can conveniently access and make the most of this mWell App’s services powered by Smart's award-winning mobile network, which was recently recognized by independent network analytics from Opensignal for delivering the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience.

Redeem the Smart Health Pass now on the Smart App at https://smrt.ph/GetSmartApp

The SM Mall of Asia Music Hall was the venue of the 21st-anniversary celebration of CHILD Haus, an institution founded by ‘Mader’ Ricky Reyes to be a bastion of hope for children stricken by cancer. Throughout its history, one consistent major supporter of the establishment has been the Sy family – in its early years, Henry ‘Tatang’ Sy, Sr., and over the last decade, SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy continuing the tradition established by his father.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes and SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy (center) celebrate the institution's 21st anniversary with the CHILD Haus beneficiaries.

Leading the event were Mr. Sy and ‘Mader’ Ricky, and several individuals and companies who, over the years, have contributed to the well-being of CHILD Haus were invited. Many children, who have been ‘adopted’ by CHILD Haus and now call it home, were also in attendance. The media was present as well, recognizing how establishments like CHILD Haus make a big difference and become the ‘answered prayers’ of so many children and their parents.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes

SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy

Three CHILD Haus stories, featuring Aya, Laura, and Jessa, were turned into video vignettes that highlighted the message of hope and the life-saving work of the organization. While it is easy to describe such events as heartwarming and tear-jerking, it was truly remarkable to witness even the most seasoned press photographers being moved to tears by these videos. This is a clear testament to the profound impact that these testimonials had on the audience at the event.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes, SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, and three inspiring CHILD Haus children, Aya, Laura, and Jessa.

After ‘Mader’ Ricky's heartwarming welcome, Mr. Sy himself took the stage to present plaques of appreciation to the many friends of CHILD Haus whose generous donations have made the organization's life-saving work possible.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes and SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy award plaques of appreciation to the generous friends of CHILD Haus whose contributions have enabled the organization's life-saving mission.

Those suffering from cancer and ‘adopted’ are provided food and shelter. There are presently two CHILD Haus locations - one in Manila, near the Philippine General Hospital, and one in Quezon City. Until the children are declared cancer-free and/or have completed their treatments and medical procedures, one child and one parent are allowed to live at CHILD Haus. If it’s an infant, both parents can stay.

A longtime supporter and regular visitor to CHILD Haus, Karylle, led the children in a rousing song composed by Karylle’s husband, Yael Yuzon. Then ‘Mader’ Ricky’s daughter sang a rendition of Florante’s ‘Handog’ that had been reworded to fit the sentiments of the children at CHILD Haus. These were two songs that the children had learnt and practiced as a “thank you” to the many guests who have helped make the ‘haus’ a reality.

Singer Karylle leads the CHILD Haus children in an uplifting song.

In the end, both ‘Mader’ Ricky and Mr. Sy acknowledged the significance of this event, which commemorates 21 years of compassion, fortitude, and the spirit of giving and sharing.

To know more about inspiring stories and events at SM, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.

Two fintech innovators – CIS Bayad Center, Inc. (Bayad), the country’s pioneer brand in the outsourced payment collection system, and Tala Financing Philippines, Inc. (Tala) - a global leading money app for the underbanked, has officially sealed its partnership, sharing the same goal of elevating the financial experience of Filipinos.

Since 2017, Tala has been providing financial tools that help its customers manage their household expenses and help them navigate opportunities to invest in small businesses. Tala has recently reached one million wallet users on its mobile application since its official launch earlier this year. Through its partnership with Bayad, Tala now enables Meralco bill payments in its mobile application, while also offering quick and easy ways to pay loans, allowing its customers to settle their bills on time.

Today, Tala customers can now pay their bills in real time using their credit of up to PHP25,000 all within the Tala app. With its flexible credit terms, customers have the freedom to choose when to repay within 61 days, aligning with their respective income cycles.

Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer shared, “We continue to strengthen our digital footprint by co-creating payment innovations with forward-thinking fintech institutions like Tala. We are one with Tala as we help boost the financial well-being of our kababayans. We are keen on expanding our biller ecosystem as we bring our one-stop bills payment solution in the Tala App. With this, Tala will also soon be able to accept payments for other electric and water utilities, telecommunications, cable, internet, insurance, online shopping, and many others.”

Tala’s Chief Business Officer Jori Pearsall added, “We believe everyone deserves access to financial services, regardless of their background or circumstances. As the Philippines is Tala’s innovation hub, and its largest market in Asia, we view this collaboration with Bayad as part of our ongoing commitment to financial inclusion as we step up to help revive our economy.”

For fintech institutions like Tala that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive channel network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

At the multi-stakeholder forum, "Towards a Greener Footprint", in Iloilo City recently, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga shared solutions-focused guidelines to help the local government reduce carbon footprint, with emphasis on water conservation to address the looming water crisis and increase access to safe water and sanitation. From left to right: Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas, journalist Ces Drilon, Secretary Loyzaga, urban planning and landscape architect Paulo Alcazaren, United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) co-chair Michaela Rossette Santo-Tayag and SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Liza Silerio. Photo credits to Arnold ALmacen/Iloilo city Office of the Mayor

 

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading real estate developers in Southeast Asia, recently called on local public officials to avoid the extraction of groundwater and, instead, invest in rainwater collection for recycling and impoundment, as well as explore new technologies such as modular desalination and modular sewage treatment plants, to manage the effects of climate change on the country’s water resources.

At the multi-stakeholder forum, “Towards a Greener Footprint”, in Iloilo City recently, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga shared solutions-focused guidelines to help the local government reduce carbon footprint, with emphasis on water conservation to address the looming water crisis and increase access to safe water and sanitation.

“We need to invest in the appropriate engineering and infrastructure to deliver water from the source,” Secretary Loyzaga said. “We must avoid, if not reduce drastically, the extraction of groundwater which in low-lying coastal areas causes subsidence and increases flooding.”

“Rainwater catchments will not only provide additional supply for household use but will also help ensure the availability of surface water through the maintenance of watershed cover when impounded,” Secretary Loyzaga said.

Based on the latest report of the Philippine Statistics Authority, water abstracted for own use increased from 215.2 billion cubic meters (bcm) in 2020 to 217.8 bcm in 2021 countrywide. From 2010 to 2021, the largest amount of self-abstracted water is for the power sector (58.7%). This was followed by agriculture (33.5%); mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and construction (5.3%); and services sector and households (2.6%).

Earlier this month, the DENR said the country still has enough water supply, but proper management is needed to prevent a possible water crisis by the end of the year.

The call was met with a resounding response from the private sector, particularly, SM Prime. In the same forum, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza B. Silerio shared how SM Prime has stepped up the sustainability programs that it has been doing since SM Supermalls started recycling water in the 1990s.

From rainwater catchment to help deter flooding in communities where its malls are located, SM Prime also pioneered the mall-based rainwater filtration system that converts the collected rainwater to be potable enough for washing, cleaning and even drinking. Launched at SM City Baguio, the facility will supply mall tenants with enough potable water to help reduce sourcing from the communities’ water table.

“As an integrated property developer, we have seen the first-hand effects of natural hazards that are caused by the change in weather patterns in the Philippines,” Engr. Silerio explained. “El Nino and La Nina are two phenomena resulting from climate change. Our country ranks number one in the World Risk Index 2022 report as the most vulnerable among 193 nations.”

Faced with this challenge, Engr. Silerio shared that SM Prime will continue to find innovative ways to address the climate challenges. “We continue to evolve and adapt technology to improve our resource consumption as part of our climate action,” she concluded.

Early childhood development is an essential part of a child’s growth that starts at home and is further strengthened in schools and community centers. Since 2002, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines, Inc. (RMHC) has recognized that not all Filipino children have equal access to opportunities that support their development and have since remained committed to supporting early child development in local communities in need.

Laying Foundations for a Brighter, Happier Tomorrow

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), McDonald’s Philippines’ charity of choice, has been building learning centers known as the Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit across the country to support communities by providing safe spaces where children can learn and play. Every Bahay Bulilit is open to low-income families, offering a place where parents can entrust their children with accredited daycare workers, ensuring the children engage in age-appropriate learning activities and play.

“Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit is one of our flagship programs that bring to life RMHC’s mission of supporting Filipino children’s need for shelter, education, and happiness. We are grateful for the support of McDonald’s Philippines, our government, and community partners in forging a better, brighter, and happier tomorrow for the kids,” said Marie Angeles, Executive Director of RMHC.

Each Bahay Bulilit is a collaboration wherein RMHC through McDonald’s Philippines, constructs the learning center, the LGU donates the land where the learning center is built, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provides trained and capable social workers to ensure the quality of the children’s learning. This way, parents are assured that their children’s welfare and safety are prioritized.

A Cradle of Hope and Light

More than a daycare center, each Bahay Bulilit answers a community’s need for safe spaces where their children can learn and socialize. The learning centers are carefully built to incorporate facilities that contribute to the learning experience of around 90-100 children on average per learning center.

The primary feature of a Bahay Bulilit is the Learner’s Area where children are taught basic lectures on values and ethics. A Reading Corner is also placed inside the learning center to encourage early appreciation for reading where children get to read interesting stories with the help of the social workers.

While in the Play Corner, children are encouraged to have fun, express creativity, and learn to make friends among their peers. Basic hygiene is also taught among little ones through the help of the Handwash Area and separate comfort rooms for boys and girls.

Being a “house for the little ones”, the Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit enriches and cradles big dreams that grant underserved Filipino children the chance to receive quality childhood education that is critical in their formative years.

On to a brighter future

In a span of 2 decades, RMHC now has opened 38 active Bahay Bulilit learning centers nationwide and has supported over 78,500 Filipino children to date. Celebrating its most recent turnover last July 31, 2023, RMHC has opened its doors to another Bahay Bulilit at Brgy. Alapan 1-A, Imus, Cavite.

McDonald’s Philippines is always actively searching for ways to be a step ahead in helping the communities they serve. Through the quick service restaurant giant’s support, RMHC aims to open its third Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit within the year in San Fernando, Pampanga. The location of each learning center is strategically decided based on the needs of the community as well as the recommendation of the local government.

“As a company with a mission to create feel-good moments for all, McDonald’s Philippines recognizes its responsibility and ability to make a positive impact in communities. We are committed to support RMHC in building a brighter future for Filipino children through learning,” said Margot Torres, McDonald’s Philippines’ Managing Director.

To learn about Ronald McDonald House Charities or RMHC Philippines and how to help, visit www.rmhc.org.ph

To learn more about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, @McDo_PH on Twitter.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, has been recognized by three international award-giving bodies for excellence in transparent Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting for its 2021 Annual Integrated Report entitled "Together, We Rise".

SM published its sustainability reports since 2013 even before the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) mandated sustainability reporting in the Philippines. SM Prime further promotes transparency and accountability by informing investors and stakeholders of its ESG performance and impacts, decision-making processes, and competitive positioning value in the sector.

“We are honored to receive these awards as a recognition of our commitment to provide transparent reporting in our sustainable practices. We value all our stakeholders, and we strive to enrich the quality of life of the Filipino people,” SM Prime President Mr. Jeffrey Lim said.

At the summit of international recognitions, SM Prime bagged accolades from the biggest and most coveted awards competition in the business world called Stevie® Awards. The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards recognizes business innovation across the entire Asia-Pacific region, whereas IBAs is one of the first and most highly anticipated awards programs of the Stevie Awards that features a wide variety of categories relevant to every facet of the workplace that is open to all kinds and sizes of organizations globally. SM Prime was awarded the Bronze Stevie® Winner at the 2023 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards program and Silver Stevie® Winner in the 2022 International Business Awards (IBAs).

Also, in the regional scene, the company won a Silver Rank in the Asia Sustainability Reporting Rating (ASRRAT) 2022, a sustainability report ranking by the National Center for Sustainability Reporting (NCSR). ASRRAT’s rating system employs criteria based on GRI Standards compliance, GHG disclosures transparency, and alignment with and support of the UN SDGs, among other factors.

The international recognitions are a testament to SM Prime’s active role in championing sustainability across its operations as it continues to be a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people.

Three years since their partnership with World Vision started, PascualLab sponsors led by Vice President for Corporate HROD and Design Services & Corporate Affairs Mia Pascual Cenzon, finally met their sponsored children face to face, at a bonding activity during PascualLab’s anniversary month at the   World Vision grounds in Quezon City.

To spread the #PascualLove as part of its CSR program Sowing to Empower, Educate, and Develop (SEED), Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab) sponsor-employees spent a weekend of bonding over an art activity, talent showcase, group games, and basic health checks with children from World-Vision assisted communities in Malabon last May 6, 2023 at the World Vision grounds in Quezon City.  

PascualLab, a partner of international charitable institution World Vision since 2020, has been sponsoring children in less-fortunate communities in Malabon via the CHOSEN program. Through the program, these children were given the chance to pick their sponsors, essentially choosing people who can help them realize their wishes for education towards better lives amidst challenges including the current health crisis.  

Three years into the pandemic and during PascualLab’s anniversary month, the sponsors were finally able to be with the children who have CHOSEN them. Malabon plays a significant place in PascualLab’s history as the Pascual family traces its roots to this Northern part of Manila.  PascualLab VP and CHOSEN sponsor Mia Pascual Cenzon shared: “PascualLab has always had a passion for CSR and a heart for family so we take every chance to help others through our health products and in more ways such as the CHOSEN program”.