In disaster risk reduction, SM Prime sets the standard
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is dedicated to improving disaster readiness. Led by Chairman Hans Sy, the company is involved in two important networks: ARISE Philippines and the National Resilience Council (NRC). Their efforts will be showcased at the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR), which is focused on boosting disaster risk resilience in the region by 2030.
Recognition for Leadership in Resilience
Sy started his advocacy with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). Since then, he has improved safety at SM Supermalls by raising SM City Marikina on concrete stilts, building a higher seawall, and installing drainage systems at SM Mall of Asia. He also set up rainwater catchment basins in 25 malls, showing his commitment to sustainability and community safety.
In the end, his efforts led him to become the first person from the private sector to be honored in the Philippine Resilience Awards. Not only that, he is also the first Filipino member of the UNDRR ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Risk Reduction’s global network.
Collaborative Efforts in Disaster Preparedness
While working with ARISE Global, Sy helped create worldwide plans for getting businesses more involved in disaster preparedness. He still leads ARISE Philippines, working with companies to improve disaster readiness across the country.
He also co-leads the National Resilience Council (NRC) for the private sector, where he partners with schools, non-profits, and LGUs to strengthen communities. One of NRC’s key programs, Adopt-A-City, shows how public and private sectors can work together to help cities better prepare for climate and disaster risks.
Celebrating DRR Leadership
To show its dedication to disaster resilience, SM Prime hosted the Top Leaders Forum 2023 with ARISE Philippines. The event, held on the International Day for Disaster Reduction, gathered top officials from organizations like the UNDRR, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Department of National Defense (DND).
It also announced that Manila will host the APMCDRR 2024 and featured the Women International Network on Disaster Risk Reduction (WINDRR) Leadership awards. SM Prime sponsored the Excellence Award for outstanding work in disaster preparedness, along with other awards from the Climate Change Commission, Senator Loren Legarda’s office, and other partners.
READ: More Than Malls: How SM Prime is Leading in Sustainable Development
SM Prime’s unwavering commitment to disaster risk reduction continues to set a standard for both the private sector and national preparedness efforts. Through strong partnerships and innovative strategies, the company remains dedicated to building safer, more resilient communities across the Philippines.
