Women in Fire: How Female Leaders Shape Fire Prevention
SM Cares launched Women in Fire Prevention, a campaign celebrating the strength and leadership of women in fire safety, disaster response, and community protection. This initiative, held during National Women’s Month and Fire Prevention Month, educated and empowered over 25,000 participants nationwide in partnership with government agencies and private organizations.
A Powerful Start with the Purple Illumination Ceremony
On February 28, 2025, SM Cares, in collaboration with the United Nations Philippines and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), kicked off National Women’s Month with the Purple Illumination Ceremony at SM Mall of Asia. Furthermore, mall façades across the country are lit up in purple, symbolizing justice, dignity, and gender equality. This event reinforced SM’s commitment to empowering women in all sectors.
Recognizing Women in Fire Prevention and Safety
A key highlight of the campaign was the Women in Fire Prevention event on March 4, 2025. SM Cares and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) conducted the 4th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill at SM Mall of Asia, engaging hundreds of participants in hands-on fire safety training. Additionally, the Fire Square Roadshow featured interactive demonstrations, ensuring communities learned vital fire prevention techniques.
“Women lead resilience efforts in times of crisis. Through ‘Women in Fire Prevention,’ we celebrate their contributions and strengthen our commitment to inclusive safety programs,” said Atty. Pearly Joan Turley, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President and SM Cares Program Director for Women.
Empowering Women in Disaster Preparedness
Next, on March 5, 2025, SM Cares and PCW launched the National Women’s Month Celebration at SM Mall of Asia under the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas.” This event aimed to uplift women from all walks of life, particularly those from marginalized communities. Discussions on gender equality, leadership, and women’s rights took center stage. Moreover, a trade fair showcased products from women-led MSMEs, while free medical check-ups, legal consultations, and livelihood support services were provided.
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Meanwhile, the Women LEAD Forum, co-hosted with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), emphasized the vital role of women in grassroots disaster resilience. It highlighted how women-led initiatives strengthen community preparedness and serve as models for national safety programs.
Creating Safe and Inclusive Spaces
To further reinforce its commitment to safe environments, SM Cares hosted the 3rd Nationwide Safe Spaces Act Orientation on March 4 and 6, 2025. This initiative educated over 12,000 participants across 86 SM malls on maintaining harassment-free spaces in malls and workplaces.
Through Women in Fire Prevention, SM Cares honored the resilience and leadership of women in fire safety and disaster response. Moreover, the campaign empowered thousands by promoting fire prevention, disaster preparedness, and inclusive community programs. As SM Cares continues to champion safety and equality, women remain at the forefront of building a stronger, more resilient society.
