HEADLINES

Check-in facility for CRK opens on March 1.

Starting March 1, Clark International Airport (CRK) passengers will have the extra convenience of checking in at SM City Clark before heading to the airport.

 (L-R): Luzon International Premier Airport Development (LIPAD) President Noel Manankil, Clark International Airport Corporation President Jojit Alcazar, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President Agnes Devandera, CDC Chairman Ed Pamintuan, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President for Mall Operations Johanna Rupisan, and Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 3 Director Richard Daenos inaugurate the Clark International Airport Check-in Facility at SM City Clark.

This new facility allows travelers to complete their check-in process before arriving at the airport, reducing stress and saving valuable time.

It offers seating for passengers waiting for the check-in process, along with a baggage repacking station and a weighing scale. It also has baggage storage, allowing travelers to securely store their luggage while they dine, shop, or relax before their flight.

From SM City Clark, travelers can easily reach CRK via the Clark Loop, a bus rapid transit system within Clark, as well as Grab. The mall is also highly accessible through point-to-point (P2P) bus services, with routes from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The check-in facility streamlines travel with comfortable seating, a baggage repacking station, and a convenient weighing scale.

Enjoy a smooth check-in experience at the new Clark International Airport (CRK) facility in SM City Clark.

Secure luggage storage enables travelers to freely enjoy dining, shopping, or relaxing within SM City Clark before their flight.

Travelers can find easy access to Clark International Airport (CRK) and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) from SM City Clark through efficient transit options like the Clark Loop, Grab, and direct Point-to-Point (P2P) bus routes from NAIA.

“This partnership demonstrates SM Supermalls’ commitment to supporting local communities and the travel industry. By providing this valuable service, we’re not only improving the passenger experience but also contributing to the growth and development of Clark,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.

For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

SM City Bataan and its 4,060-piece solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have a peak capacity of 2,376,000 kW.

As the world continues to grapple with depleting resources, the need for renewable energy has never been more urgent. Malls, as significant energy consumers, have a unique opportunity to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future by adopting renewable energy solutions that can significantly reduce their environmental impact.

Understanding this, SM has been continuously ramping up its renewable energy initiatives by adopting solutions that lower its carbon footprint. One such solution is the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which provide clean and renewable energy by converting sunlight directly into electricity. This allows SM to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and contribute to a greener environment.

Expanding solar power across SM malls

As of February 2025, SM is nearing full operations for the solar PV systems installed in 45 of its properties across the country, with more slated for retrofitting soon.

SM’s use of solar PV systems is just one of the many ways the company has been taking a more sustainable approach to energy use while supporting the country in achieving its sustainability goals. Its efforts continue to be recognized by reputable institutions both locally and internationally. 

Industry recognition for SM’s sustainability efforts

For instance, SM’s flagship mall, SM Mall of Asia, was recognized at the 2024 Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards and Sustainable Energy Awards organized by the Department of Energy (DOE). It won the Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution for its solar PV system, which is capable of generating 2.7-megawatts (MW) of peak energy—enough to power 1,790 households for an entire year. 

Meanwhile, SM City Butuan was recognized under the New and Existing Building category at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Energy Awards 2024 Best Practices Competition for Energy-Efficient Buildings. Endorsed by the DOE to represent the Philippines, the mall was honored for advancing energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) innovations in its design and operations.

Supporting the DOE’s Renewable Energy Roadmap

Alongside its efforts to integrate renewable energy sources into its operations, SM is also committed to supporting the DOE in achieving its targets under the Renewable Energy Roadmap 2017-2040, particularly its goal to increase the country’s renewable energy installed capacity to at least 20,000 MW by 2040.

SM City Tanza is one of the 45 SM malls with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, numbering 2,286 units, which will produce 1,257.30 kW peak solar power.

Public-Private Partnerships for a sustainable future

SM collaborates with partner solar PV system providers under the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Distributed Energy Resources program. These service contracts define the conditions of the partnership, project timelines, and the assigned malls for each provider, aligning with SM’s adoption of renewable energy.

“At SM, sustainability is a commitment. Our growing solar portfolio demonstrates our dedication to a greener future for the Philippines, in partnership with the DOE and our valued partners,” shared SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group Engr. Liza Silerio.

 “Together, we’re not just generating cost savings – we’re shaping a more sustainable future by supporting long-term environmental goals of our partners while contributing to the Philippines’ green transition,” said Green Heat Corporation Director Glenn Tong. Green Heat is one of SM’s solar PV system providers.

SM City Butuan with its solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. 

A model for sustainable development

Beyond its environmental and economic benefits, SM’s implementation of solar PV systems serves as a progressive model for public-private partnerships (PPPs). By collaborating with the DOE, SM gains access to technical expertise and financial incentives while helping the country meet its sustainability goals. This approach promotes innovation, creates jobs, and sets a precedent for other commercial establishments to follow.

DOE’s support for sustainable energy development

“The DOE has implemented sustainable energy development strategies and institutionalized national and local capabilities, and we are heartened by the strong support we have received from both the private and public sectors,” said DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara in her opening address at the Sustainable Energy Awards. 

To learn more about SM’s various sustainability initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

A united commitment for brighter communities!  Jocelyn Remigio, Program Director for Community Development of Global Peace Foundation, Leonard Faustino, Executive Director of Global Peace Foundation Philippines, together with Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing and Engr. Junias Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls, join hands to formalize the partnership for the All Lights Village project. This collaboration brings sustainable energy solutions and community empowerment to underserved areas, illuminating lives one village at a time.

SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, has joined hands with the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Philippines to support the transformative All Lights Village project. This partnership was solidified with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on February 14, 2025, at the SM Prime Headquarters, marking another significant step forward in promoting sustainable development and empowering underprivileged communities in off-grid areas.

The All Lights Village project, spearheaded by GPF Philippines, is an innovative initiative designed to improve the quality of life for families living in rural areas without access to electricity. By providing solar lighting, educational resources, and livelihood opportunities, the program is creating brighter futures for these communities while championing clean energy solutions and sustainable growth.

A Shared Commitment to Uplifting Communities
Through this partnership, SM Cares will provide spaces in SM Aura, SM Megamall, and SM Mall of Asia for fundraising booths dedicated to the All Lights Village project. Funds raised through these booths will directly support the initiative, enabling more families to benefit from solar lighting, better education, and sustainable livelihoods.

During the MOA signing, Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. “SM Cares is proud to support the All Lights Village project and its mission of empowering communities through sustainable development. By providing these families with clean energy and opportunities, we are not just lighting homes but also paving the way for brighter, more hopeful futures.”

Leonard Faustino, Executive Director of GPF Philippines, shared similar sentiments. “This partnership with SM Cares reflects a shared vision of creating lasting change in communities that need it the most. Together, we are proving that even the smallest actions, like providing light, can spark transformative impact.”

Impacting Lives Through Clean Energy and Sustainability
The All Lights Village initiative has already made a significant difference in rural areas by reducing reliance on harmful kerosene lamps and offering children a safe and well-lit environment for studying. This partnership will enable even more families to access these benefits, creating ripple effects of progress across communities.

The fundraising booths at SM malls will serve as a platform for shoppers to participate in this cause, ensuring that the public becomes an integral part of this life-changing initiative. More details about the booth locations and schedules will be announced soon, inviting everyone to contribute to a brighter tomorrow.

Looking Forward: Building a Better Future Together
This partnership underscores SM Cares’ continued commitment to empowering communities and supporting impactful initiatives that improve lives. The All Lights Village project is not just about providing light—it’s about illuminating opportunities and fostering a sense of hope and unity among the most underserved populations.

For more information about the fundraising activities or how to support the All Lights Village project, follow SM Cares’ social media channels.

About SM Cares
SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, focusing on initiatives that promote sustainability, inclusivity, and community development. From environmental programs to projects that uplift marginalized groups, SM Cares strives to create meaningful and lasting impacts across the Philippines.

About Global Peace Foundation Philippines
The Global Peace Foundation Philippines is dedicated to promoting innovative solutions for community development, education, and peacebuilding. Through initiatives like the All Lights Village project, the foundation empowers communities to thrive sustainably and collaboratively.

SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, and the Human Milk Bank Association of the Philippines (HMBAP), has officially launched the groundbreaking SM Human Milk Depot Initiative. The partnership was inaugurated on February 19, 2025, with special messages from key representatives at SM City San Lazaro.

A milestone for maternal and child health! SM Cares, in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, and the Human Milk Bank Association of the Philippines (HMBAP), officially launches the SM Human Milk Depot Initiative at SM City San Lazaro. This initiative empowers breastfeeding mothers and ensures infants in need receive life-saving donor milk.

Empowering Communities, Saving Lives
Breastfeeding is critical to maternal and child health, yet many mothers face challenges in providing sufficient milk for their infants due to medical or circumstantial limitations. The SM Human Milk Depot Initiative seeks to address this gap by ensuring the availability of safe, nutritious donor human milk, particularly during emergencies and disasters. The donated milk will be processed and distributed through accredited Human Milk Banks, reaching the infants who need it most.

“The Human Milk Depot initiative is a vital step towards achieving several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDGs 2 and 3 — eliminating hunger, improving nutrition, and promoting health and wellness. Our goal is to make breastfeeding more accessible, not only for current breastfeeding mothers but also for those considering breastfeeding. By establishing a milk depot inside our malls, we are taking a significant step toward this objective.” said Atty. Pearly Joan Jayagan Turley, Senior Assistant Vice President of the Corporate Compliance Group and SM Cares Program Director for Women & Breastfeeding Mothers. “This milestone initiative reflects SM’s continuing commitment to fostering safe spaces and advocating for maternal and child health, and we will ensure that it expands across the nation, serving mothers and children all around the country.”

Strengthening a Culture of Breastfeeding Advocacy
Aligned with the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009, the SM Human Milk Depot Initiative reinforces SM Supermalls’ mission of being “A Mall for All.” Through partnerships with health institutions, the program promotes breastfeeding awareness and supports mothers by offering facilities and programs that cater to their needs.

During the launch event, Usec. Mary Ann Palermo-Maestral of the Public Health Services Cluster and Dr. Estrella Jusi, President of the Human Milk Bank Association of the Philippines, commended SM Cares for its leadership in this critical advocacy. “This partnership exemplifies what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work together to support maternal and infant health,” said Usec. Maestral.

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Community Engagement
The initiative will initially roll out in two pilot locations, with plans for expansion to additional SM malls based on the program’s success. Beyond the depots, SM Cares will also strengthen its community engagement efforts, raising awareness about the importance of breast milk donation and fostering a culture of care and advocacy.

Impacting Lives One Drop at a Time
The launch of the SM Human Milk Depot Initiative marks another significant milestone in SM Cares’ Women and Breastfeeding Advocacy program. The initiative is expected to increase participation in breast milk donation, improve infant health outcomes, and promote breastfeeding-friendly communities across the Philippines.

“We envision a future where every child has the opportunity to grow and thrive, and every mother feels supported and empowered in her breastfeeding journey,” said Atty. Pearly Turley.

For more information about the SM Human Milk Depot Initiative and how you can contribute to this life-saving program, visit SM City San Lazaro and SM City Manila, and follow SM Cares’ social media channels for updates on when the program will be available soon.

About SM Cares
SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, focusing on initiatives that promote inclusivity, sustainability, and community development. Through programs supporting women, children, and marginalized groups, SM Cares strives to create meaningful and lasting impacts across the Philippines.

About the Human Milk Bank Association of the Philippines
The Human Milk Bank Association of the Philippines is a national organization dedicated to ensuring the safe collection, storage, and distribution of human milk. Partnering with health institutions and advocates, HMBAP champions maternal and infant health through innovative and sustainable solutions.