SM Offices Bets on Renewables to Power Growth and Attract Tenants

SM Offices, a business unit of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), is scaling up its renewable energy (RE) use as part of a broader push to make sustainability a driver of growth and tenant value.

From rooftop solar grids to LEED-certified towers, SM Offices proves that clean energy drives resilient growth.

The SM Prime business unit now sources more than half of its operational power from certified renewable energy, reflecting how clean energy adoption is reshaping the country’s commercial property landscape.

As of mid-2025, SM Prime has installed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across 48 malls and offices with a combined capacity of 73 megawatts peak (MWp).

“SM Offices not only supports but also goes beyond the Philippine government’s target of having 50 percent of the country’s power generation come from renewable sources by 2040,” Vice President and Head of SM Offices Alexis L. Ortiga said.

Under the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) 2020–2040 of the Department of Energy, the Philippines aims to increase the share of renewables in its power generation mix to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040, supporting the country’s goals for energy security, sustainability, and climate resilience.

Across its expanding portfolio, SM Offices is integrating solar grids, sensor-enabled fixtures, and energy-efficient cooling systems into building design and operations—stabilizing energy costs, improving comfort and reliability, and enabling tenants to meet their sustainability commitments.

Several of its flagship developments—ThreeE-Com and FourE-Com Centers in the Mall of Asia Complex, Aura Tower beside SM Aura Premier in Bonifacio Global City, Mega Tower in Ortigas, and North Towers in Quezon City—have all achieved LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, underscoring its focus on performance and sustainability.

Currently, One E-Com, Two E-Com, and Five E-Com are undergoing LEED O+M certification, which recognizes excellence in the sustainable operation and maintenance of existing buildings. The certification focuses on energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality and other measures that promote the health and well-being of both people and the environment.

Ortiga explained that their approach is both strategic and adaptive. “SM Offices remains resilient by integrating sustainability initiatives into its core strategies,” he said. “Our offices are located closer to where people live, helping reduce travel time and emissions, and we are expanding renewable energy use and EV charging infrastructure to support a lower-carbon economy.”

The model is proving commercially sound. Renewable energy reduces exposure to power price volatility, supports tenant ESG goals, and strengthens investor confidence. For companies under increasing pressure to meet sustainability metrics, leasing from a renewable-powered portfolio offers both stability and reputational upside. (SM PRIME)

SM Prime Earns Third Consecutive Five Golden Arrows for Corporate Governance Excellence

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) has once again earned the prestigious Five Golden Arrow Award from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) for the third consecutive year. The recognition affirms the company’s continued commitment to transparency, accountability and responsible management practices.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. received the Five Golden Arrow Award from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) at the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) Golden Arrow Recognition held last October 23, 2025 at the Okada Manila Hotel. From Left to Right: ICD Chairperson Atty. Benedicta Du-Baladad; SM Prime Independent Director J. Carlitos G. Cruz; SEC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Francis Lim; and ICD Vice Chairperson Ida Ceniza-Tiongson.

“This Five Golden Arrow Award is a testament to the collective efforts of everyone at SM Prime. It reflects the company’s strong commitment to nurturing a culture of good governance built on integrity, fairness, accountability and transparency,” said J. Carlitos G. Cruz, SM Prime Independent Director, during the awarding ceremony.

“With the revised ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard placing stronger emphasis on sustainability, SM Prime has demonstrated its dedication to promoting social inclusion, environmental stewardship and economic advancement, ensuring sustainable and resilient growth for the communities it serves,” he added.

The ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) assesses publicly listed companies based on shareholder rights, sustainability and resilience, stakeholder relations, transparency through timely disclosures, and the effectiveness of the Board in guiding corporate strategy. The scorecard consists of 193 metrics based on publicly available information and aims to raise corporate governance standards in the Philippines while positioning local companies as attractive investment opportunities.

A Golden Arrow is awarded to companies that achieve a minimum score of 75 points in the ACGS assessment, signifying strong adherence to the Philippine Code of Corporate Governance and alignment with globally recognized best practices. Companies are rated across five levels of governance performance.

SM Prime continues to strengthen its governance framework as it expands its integrated property developments, fostering inclusive economic activity and community growth across the country. (SM PRIME)

SM City Mindpro turns over books to Zamboanga City Library as part of SM’s Nationwide “Book Nook” Campaign

Promoting the love for reading and lifelong learning, SM City Mindpro recently turned over the donated books to the Zamboanga City Library, one of the beneficiaries of SM’s nationwide literacy initiative, “Book Nook.”

 

The Book Nook campaign, part of SM Cares’ advocacy on education and literacy, aims to make books more accessible to communities by setting up reading nooks and collecting donated books for public libraries and schools across the country.

 

During the turnover ceremony, representatives from SM City Mindpro, led by Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, personally handed over more than 400 books to the Zamboanga City Library management team. The collection includes children’s storybooks, young adult novels, and educational materials designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a love for reading among all ages.

 

“Through this initiative, we hope to create meaningful spaces for learning and inspire more Zamboangueños, especially the youth, to discover the joy of reading,” said Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, SM City Mindpro Mall Manager. “SM’s Book Nook program reflects our ongoing commitment to education, literacy, and community development.”

 

The Zamboanga City Library, under the City Government of Zamboanga, expressed gratitude for the donation, noting how the additional books will enhance their collection and benefit students, educators, and local readers.

“These new reading materials will go a long way in encouraging our community to read and learn,” said City Librarian Dr. Madelyn Candido. “We thank SM City Mindpro and everyone who shared their books for helping us nurture a culture of learning in Zamboanga.”

 

SM City Mindpro also extended heartfelt appreciation to customers, partners, and employees who participated in the Book Nook Campaign by donating their pre-loved and new books. Their generosity and shared passion for literacy helped make the turnover possible.

“This success is a reflection of the community’s kindness,” Villa-Enriquez added. “Every book donated carries a story – and together, we are passing on the gift of knowledge to future generations.”

 

The Book Nook project is implemented nationwide across SM Supermalls in partnership with National Library of the Philippines. It supports SM’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and equitable learning opportunities for all.

Through this initiative, SM City Mindpro continues to uphold its mission of being more than just a shopping destination, but a partner in building a knowledgeable, inspired, and empowered community.

SM City Mindpro Unwraps “A Christmas Story”: A Whimsical Holiday Adventure Filled with Magic, Laughter, and Reindeer Surprises

 

The most wonderful time of the year has officially arrived at SM City Mindpro as the mall transforms into a whimsical wonderland for its Christmas launch – “A Christmas Story.” Inspired by the charm and nostalgia of classic storybook holidays, this year’s theme takes a playful twist with Reindeer Christmas Surprise, inviting everyone to experience the joy and wonder of Christmas through the eyes of a child.

From twinkling lights and giant gifts and books to dazzling Christmas trees and mischievous reindeer on the loose, “A Christmas Story” brings to life a world where fantasy meets festivity. As Santa’s reindeer lead the way through sparkling displays and hidden treats, mallgoers are welcomed into a heartwarming tale filled with laughter, surprises, and timeless holiday cheer.

The Christmas Launch was graced by City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso, represented by Kaiser Olaso, Philippine Information Agency 9 Regional Director Noemi Edaga, SM Supermalls Regional Operations Head for Mindanao 3 Lester Tantoco, SM City Mindpro Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, and special guests who joined the countdown to the grand lighting of the Christmas centerpiece. The event kicked off with dazzling performances that filled the mall atrium with music, color, and pure Christmas spirit.

 

“For many families, SM has become a place where holiday traditions come to life,” said Lester Tantoco. “It’s where children’s laughter fills the air, where friends gather to reconnect, and where families create lasting memories together – whether it’s through Christmas shopping, dining, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the season.”

 

The setup features Instagram-worthy decorations, magical lighting, and interactive displays perfect for kids and families to explore. From photo-worthy corners and reindeer-themed installations to surprise mall performances and exclusive holiday promos, every visit to SM City Mindpro promises something new to discover.

 

Adding even more sparkle to the celebration, SM City Mindpro has lined up a series of festive activities throughout the holiday season. Shoppers can join the SM Besties of Joy campaign, where every purchase becomes a way to share happiness with others; embark on an adventure at the SM Christmas Village Digital Game, an interactive experience that brings the spirit of play to life; witness the Grand Magical Parade featuring beloved Christmas characters; and celebrate friendship and fun with the SM Holi Squad, spreading colorful joy all around the mall.

 

More than just a visual spectacle, “A Christmas Story” captures the true essence of the holidays – togetherness, joy, and giving. As mallgoers stroll through the enchanting displays, they’ll find every corner telling its own tale of wonder, reminding everyone that the magic of Christmas lives in every smile, every laugh, and every shared moment.

 

So gather your loved ones, snap those festive photos, and experience the Christmas spirit only at SM City Mindpro, where every moment feels like a page from your favorite Christmas tale. 

SM J Mall Illuminates the Holidays with “The Heart of Hikari”

Magical chapters unfold across SM Supermalls in the Visayas with Unwrapping Magical Christmas Tales

 

SM J Mall joins SM Supermalls in the Visayas in Unwrapping Magical Christmas Tales with its first ever Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, held on October 23, 2025, at The Atrium. Bringing a unique cultural touch to the celebration, SM J Mall presents Find the Christmas Glow at the Heart of Hikari — a theme inspired by the mall’s distinct Japanese concept. Standing 35 feet tall, the dazzling Christmas tree shines with Hikari, a Kokeshi Doll whose name means “light,” serving as a radiant centerpiece that embodies warmth, harmony, and holiday joy.

 

The Atrium shimmered as guests and spectators witnessed a new tradition come to life at SM J Mall. Visitors can Find the Christmas glow at the Heart of Hikari through festive experiences that bring the season’s magic to life. Mallgoers can stroll through the Hikari Lightscape and capture picture-perfect moments at the Hikari Snap Station from October 23, 2025, to January 4, 2026.  Families can experience Snap with Santa every Saturday of November and December, while soulful Holiday Harmonies performances fill the mall every Sunday of November and December.  Shoppers can also enjoy Holiday Everyday Deals across participating stores until December 2025, making each visit a delightful celebration of light, music, and holiday cheer.

SM continues its cherished holiday tradition through the Besties of Joy, adorable bunny plushies that spread warmth and cheer. For every Bestie purchased, another is given to a child in need, inspiring shoppers to share in the joy of giving.

And the story doesn’t end here — watch out as more unwrapping surprises await in the coming days. (SM Supermalls)

SM City La Union Boosts Climate Resilience with Rainwater Catchment System

With climate change driving heavier rains and more frequent floods, proactive flood prevention has become a key part of building resilient communities.

The newly opened SM City La Union becomes the 30th SM mall to install a rainwater catchment system, supporting thousands of residents in flood-prone areas and demonstrating how business innovation protects communities.

SM City La Union, now the 30th mall of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) that features a rainwater catchment facility, expands its network of climate-resilient infrastructure nationwide. For SM Supermalls, catchment facilities are designed to collect and store large volumes of stormwater, preventing runoff that could otherwise overwhelm drainage networks.

During heavy rainfall, the catchment temporarily holds stormwater, allowing gradual discharge through proper channels. Collectively, SM City La Union’s underground rainwater catchment system can provide a total capacity of 760 cubic meters.

A design for tomorrow. SM Supermalls focuses on sustainable water use by managing available resources to meet the needs of future generations.

Each drop contributes to a safer, more sustainable future for all. Mapping every opportunity to achieve Water for Tomorrow, treating and reusing water as a supplemental water source also significantly decreases freshwater consumption. In 2024, SM Prime achieved a 26.23% increase in recycled water volume, rising from 4.42 million cubic meters in 2023 to 5.59 million cubic meters.

Social resilience is equally important as the physical infrastructure. SM Cares raises awareness on water conservation and adopting sustainable practices in daily life, helping to empower community action. 

“Our rainwater catchment systems go beyond flood control — they help create safer spaces for our communities. We hope to show how climate-smart infrastructure and innovation can protect lives, livelihoods, and progress,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.

About SM Green Movement

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, committed to creating sustainable, innovative, and inclusive spaces for Filipinos. Guided by its vision of building a better future, SM Prime develops malls, residences, offices, hotels, and leisure properties that support the growth of communities across the Philippines.

Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come. (SM PRIME)