SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) has always been at the forefront of sustainability in the Philippines, blending eco-friendly practices with smart construction. From water recycling and renewable energy projects to waste management and energy-efficient systems, the company is serious about protecting both the planet and its communities.

This commitment was on full display at the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, where Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee, highlighted how resilience, innovation, and teamwork are vital for sustainable urban development.
Given the Philippines’ vulnerability to typhoons and flooding, SM Prime integrates disaster risk management into its building designs. Take SM City Marikina, for example—built on 246 concrete stilts near the flood-prone Marikina River, the mall allows water to flow safely underneath during heavy rains. It even stood firm during Typhoon Ondoy in 2009, providing a safe haven for affected locals.
Similarly, SM City Cabanatuan incorporates flood resilience with its lower parking level doubling as a catchment basin to temporarily hold floodwaters, reducing the risk for surrounding areas.
SM Prime’s innovations don’t stop there. The company has installed massive underground rainwater catchment basins in 29 of its malls, with a combined capacity of 85,400 cubic meters—enough to fill 34 Olympic-sized swimming pools!
These basins have proven crucial in minimizing flood impacts. For instance, SM City Masinag, which is in a historically flood-prone area, collected over 8,652 cubic meters of rainwater during Super Typhoon Carina in 2024.
Local residents, like Gareth Aboy from Antipolo, have expressed their gratitude:
“SM City Masinag has been a lifeline for us, from offering elevated parking to managing rainwater effectively. It’s a true treasure for our community.”
At its core, SM Prime’s flood mitigation strategies are about creating safer, more resilient spaces for everyone. The company sees these investments as more than just infrastructure; they’re commitments to a sustainable and secure future for the communities they serve.
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