SM Prime: Creating infrastructure for plastic-free communities

According to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), the global production of plastics is forecasted to reach 1,100 million tonnes by 2050, with severe environmental, social, economic, and human health consequences.

 

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) remains committed to creating thriving, sustainable cities.

 

With a waste-free future as part of its environmental strategy, SM Prime encourages the observation of International Plastic-free Day on May 25 and its call to rethink single-use plastics (SUP) for one day. Moreover, SM Prime celebrates the group-wide strides made to support the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022.

The Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable-labeled bins support SM's waste-free future initiative and align with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022.

A group-wide movement for the EPR Law

 

The SM group, working with its Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS), is pursuing a group-wide strategy to comply with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)’s EPR Act of 2022.

 

Formally known as Republic Act 11898, the EPR law requires companies to take responsibility for the recovery of their plastic packaging products and to pursue waste management programs.

 

Acknowledging the challenges and realities for businesses and on-ground operations through its EPR working group committee, the SM group commits to a plan of action in reducing and recovering its plastic footprint within the given five-year period, sharing alternatives and new technologies to respond to the growing global crises, and establishing partnerships with government agencies and other private institutions.

 

As the property arm of the SM group, SM Prime’s commitment to a waste-free future aims to create the needed infrastructure that will help support and maintain plastic waste management strategies.

 

Crucial to waste recovery efforts, SM Prime equips its properties with a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), and standardized waste segregation and management practices to help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. A joint venture with a Japanese environmental solutions company, the SM GUUN Environmental Company, Inc. (SGECI), converts non-recyclable waste into cement fuel or “fluff fuel” for eco-conscious cement companies like APO Cement, Holcim, and Taiheiyo Cement, as part of its “co-processing” practice.

SM GUUN converts disposable waste into fluff fuel, which helps unload overfilled and over-capacity landfills.

Beyond compliance

SM Prime continues with its established programs such as the nationwide Trash to Cash recycling market. Since 2007, it has been one of SM Supermalls’ flagship programs that continues to be more relevant given the times.

Available in all 87 SM malls, the Trash to Cash program has since been recognized as a rewarding community-driven practice for surrounding residents and mall tenants.

Activating the SM malls to help their communities with sorted plastic waste, Trash to Cash incentivizes the exchange of recyclables to provide a venue for plastic recovery. Fifteen SM Plastic Waste Collection sites likewise serve as drop-off points for clean, empty, and dry plastics. In addition, the Solid Waste Action Program (SWAP) reverse vending machines at SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia enable the diversion of aluminum cans and polyethylene terephthalate bottles (PET), which are considered high-value plastic products.

The annual International Coastal Clean-up (ICC), supported by SM Cares, continues to empower volunteers to take part in this global effort for a record-breaking initiative. In 2024 alone, SM Cares helped mobilize 23,000 employees, students, and various communities that joined nationwide volunteer efforts to remove trash from the world’s beaches and waterways.

Volunteers participate in the International Coastal Clean-up (ICC) for a shared cause, with sign-ups increasing each year.

Aiming for a waste-free future

 

Reduction is always the best option. The SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has long since eliminated SUPs from all properties in support of the UNEP’s campaign to phase them out. Pico Sands Hotel was also one of the first hotels to sign with the World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF) in their Ayoko Na Sa Plastic Campaign in 2018. 

 

SMHCC has successfully replaced all single-use amenities, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) shampoo and shower gel bottles, and PET water bottles in all its hotel rooms.  Since 2019, as part of the SMX Convention Centers’ guidelines to promote sustainable events management practices, bamboo or starch-based environmentally friendly alternatives to replace plastic cutlery are encouraged to minimize waste generation.

 

Working collectively as a group to reduce the effects of the plastic waste crises creates a bigger impact at a greater scale. Through enhanced waste management systems, effective waste segregation practices, and proactive community effort, SM Prime aims to successfully divert a greater proportion of plastic waste away from landfills.

 

“Our work is never done. There are new technologies, innovative solutions, and more avenues for collaboration to look forward to in making the EPR Act work for our communities,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. “But we all have a role to play--it is every individual’s responsibility to create a waste-free future.” 

THE FIRST IN PAMPANGA—A New Era of Asian Flavors Served with a Twist

 If there’s one thing that binds Asian culture together, it's how our legacy and tradition are preserved through food. From the careful sourcing of ingredients to the creativity and innovation in preparation, Asian cuisines are truly made to be extraordinary.

 

SM Supermalls upholds this by delivering Taiwanese, Japanese, and Thai excellence to one of the centres of Filipino gastronomy—Pampanga. With the same sense of richness and attention to quality, Ninepot, The Matcha Tokyo, and Purple Rice establish themselves as must-try places at SM City Clark and SM City Pampanga!

Ninepot—Quality Taiwanese Hot Pot Experience

With the growing popularity of East Asian hot pot restaurants, Ninepot—its name reflecting the Taiwanese cultural belief that the number nine brings good fortune—sets itself apart by putting traditional Taiwanese flavors in the spotlight at the Tech Hub 2 of SM City Clark.

Unlike many hot pot restaurants that focus on unlimited servings, Ninepot prioritizes quality by offering carefully curated ingredients in each customizable set meal. Following a six-step process, Ninepot creates a well-rounded dining experience that highlights the richness of Taiwanese cuisine.

Each order includes a choice of protein, sides, broth, and vegetables, complemented by a dessert and a weekly special drink—completing a satisfying dining experience.

But what truly makes Ninepot stand out is its flavorful selection of soup bases, ranging from classic Taiwanese savory specials to hot and spicy picks. Among these are the signature Taiwan Stone Hot Pot, the aromatic Sesame Oil Hot Pot, the refreshingly sweet Dashi Broth Hot Pot, and the delectably spicy Szechuan Hot Pot.

The Matcha Tokyo—Haven for Premium-Grade Matcha

 Matcha-inspired drinks and desserts are popping up left and right. However, despite the growing accessibility, matcha has proved to be a difficult flavor to handle—especially since matcha lovers are even more difficult to please!

 But when it comes to perfecting that earthy, rich, and refined flavor, no one does it better than The Matcha Tokyo with its authentic, premium-grade selections at the Ground Level of SM City Clark.

Highlighting 100% organic matcha specials, The Matcha Tokyo is committed to promoting health and sustainability by bringing Japan’s finest matcha for daily and casual consumption.

For starters, their definite must-tries include the #1 best-selling Organic Matcha Latte—popular across all The Matcha Tokyo branches worldwide—and the Philippine-exclusive Ube Matcha Latte, which features a delightful blend of their high-quality matcha and the iconic sweet taste of purple yam (ube).

From a wide variety of matcha-infused beverages and pastries to chocolates, snacks, and conveniently available pure matcha powder—everything you can imagine to satisfy your matcha obsession is possible with The Matcha Tokyo.

Purple Rice—Thai Flavors with an Innovative Twist

 

Nothing is more delicious than sustainably crafted meals made rich with their culture of origin. This is exactly what Purple Rice brings to the table—introducing Thai flavors cooked through future-forward approaches to food at the Ground Level of SM City Pampanga.

Rooted in stories of heritage, environmentally conscious agricultural practices, and ultimately, a deep love and respect for Thai cuisine, Purple Rice offers a variety of creative Thai flavors fused with touches of Filipino warmth and food traditions.

Dedicated to serving authentic Thai cuisine with signature innovative twists, the uniquely colored Purple Rice takes center stage—often paired with popular Thai dishes and set against an inviting interior that enhances the experience.

Their menu features a variety of dishes, including soups like Tom Yum Talay, salads such as Purple Yam Woon Sen, and mains like Khao Soi and Pad Thai, with their best-selling meals including the Red Angus Beef Curry and Thai Halo-Halo, among other noteworthy selections.

Allow yourself to explore flavors that greatly satisfy your Kapampangan taste buds and visit Ninepot at Tech Hub 2 and The Matcha Tokyo at the Ground Level of SM City Clark, as well as Purple Rice at the Ground Level of SM City Pampanga."

Whether you see yourself as a connoisseur of particular dishes or a casual food enjoyer, SM Supermalls ensures you get the best from across different cuisines—serving flavors suited to our own taste and culture while introducing food innovations that integrate familiar practices with new experiences.

There’s always more to enjoy and more to share at SM Supermalls! For more exclusive dining experiences and first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

 

SM Supermalls #NewEraOfFirsts

At SM Supermalls, we’re proud to lead a New Era of Firsts—bringing you first-to-market brands, groundbreaking experiences, and culinary destinations you won’t find anywhere else. From world-class dining and retail exclusives to innovative spaces that connect and inspire communities, we’re redefining what it means to have it all.

As we continue to grow, we remain committed to sustainability, community empowerment, and creating memorable moments that make every visit more meaningful. There’s always something new and exciting waiting for you at SM.

SM Prime’s year one toward a waste-free future

 According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Philippines generates over 60,000 metric tons of waste daily, a figure expected to rise with urban growth and economic activity.

 

Together as one community, 2024 marks the launch of SM Waste-Free Future in SM Mall of Asia.

Recognizing the urgency, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) launched the SM Waste-Free Future program in 2024 as one of its flagship environmental sustainability programs to reduce overall waste generation through effective waste segregation and divert waste away from landfills through recycling, composting, and other sustainable disposal methods.

 

In its first year, it implemented a new waste management segregation system across its properties, including all malls, residences, offices, hotels and convention centers, and estates nationwide.

 

Beyond SM Prime, the campaign on waste has extended its reach to other SM groups and portfolio companies, making SM Waste-Free Future a group-wide endeavor.

 

A bigger picture of waste

The Recyclable, Disposable, Composable (RDC) bins are central to the program’s segregation practice.  RDC makes it simple and consistent, providing key visual cues to bin it right.

Together for an SM Waste-Free Future, the Recyclable, Disposable, Composable (RDC) bins at SM Store branches support the broader goals of environmental sustainability through clear and effective waste segregation practices.

Despite its infancy stage, the rapid and wide-scale integration underscores SM Prime’s ability to operationalize sustainability across diverse asset classes and ecosystems, reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovative waste diversion strategies.

SM Prime also celebrates the efforts of SM Retail in advancing a waste-free future. All SM Store branches have successfully deployed their RDC bins, while SM Markets continues to implement its reusable bag system. In support of waste management efforts, Goldilocks Bakeshop has also implemented the RDC system across its stores in all SM Supermalls.

 

Creating opportunities to expand

Partnerships with other organizations pave the way for the work ahead. SM Waste-Free Future strengthens tenant engagement for SM Supermalls and SM Offices, supporting businesses with similar goals on waste and helping them align with their global sustainability policies.

 

Similarly, it reinforces SM Hotels’ advanced Back of House operations, food waste policies, and textile recycling program. The SM Hotels’ Tela Tales program transforms discarded linen into sustainable products and provides livelihood for the women of partner communities, upcycling more than 2,000 yards of condemned linens. 

 

Recognizing that technology greatly contributes to the solutions, SM Waste-Free Future has also strengthened collaborations with other organizations. SM Development Corporation (SMDC) works with Globe’s Hapag Movement to rescue surplus food from residents and help make a difference in the lives of Filipino families experiencing involuntary hunger and divert household food waste away from landfills.

 

In the mall’s Cyberzone areas, SM Supermalls’ Electronic Waste Collection Program and their partnership with PLDT and Smart make it accessible to dispose of old mobile devices and other electronic gadgets responsibly.

 

Shoppers can conveniently drop off old gadgets for proper recycling through SM Supermalls’ E-Waste Collection in partnership with PLDT and Smart at Cyberzone.

Join the movement

SM Waste Free Future invites more communities and stakeholders to participate through proper waste segregation, joining local clean-ups and collection drives, or supporting eco-friendly products and practices.

Positive reinforcement and catchy social media campaigns from SM Cares target the youth by promoting better waste segregation habits and encouraging them to become more involved with the state of the planet they will inherit.

Recently, in celebration of World Oceans Day, SM Cares mobilized communities across 18 SM Supermalls nationwide, bringing together over 5,000 volunteers and collecting more than 30,000 kilograms of waste from shorelines. 

Mobilizing for World Oceans Day, SM Cares volunteers unite and act to remove waste that ends up in the oceans.

“Waste-Free Future is more than just a program—it’s a mindset shift. And we’re only getting started,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. “We call on our tenants, partners, and customers to continue the journey with us—because a truly sustainable future is one we build together.”

With the growing momentum for a waste-free future, SM Prime believes that a cleaner, more circular Philippines is well within reach.

 

About SM Prime:

SM Prime is steadfast in its commitment to shaping sustainable and innovative lifestyle cities that drive economic progress and elevate the quality of life for millions of Filipinos. As a catalyst for inclusive growth, the company champions responsible development that creates long-term value for communities.

DTI, PRA, and SCMAP launch “Job Blueprint” with SM Supermalls

The future of employment in the Philippines' wholesale and retail trade sector got a major boost on June 16, 2025. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), together with the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) and the Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP), officially launched Section G: Job Blueprint for the Wholesale and Retail Trade Sector at SM City North EDSA. The initiative included a two-day job fair, offering immediate hiring opportunities to Filipino job seekers.

(L-R): Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP) President Dennis Llovido, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Engelbert Chua, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, and Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) President Roberto Claudio Sr. attend the media launch of the Section G: Job Blueprint for Wholesale and Retail Trade on June 16, 2025, at SM North EDSA.

The Section G Job Blueprint, developed through extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, highlights the strong collaboration between government, the private sector, and mall leadership to address workforce gaps in retail and supply chain. Serving as a foundation for future reforms, it aims to boost employment growth by leveraging the sector’s vital contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and its role as a key employer of over 10 million Filipinos, according to the DTI.

Industry support and immediate impact

The job fair, which offered hundreds of career opportunities from leading retailers and logistics providers, drew a diverse crowd of job seekers eager to engage with PRA and SCMAP member companies recruiting for roles in merchandising, warehousing, logistics, and frontline retail.

The Section G Job Blueprint, developed through extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, highlights the strong collaboration between government, the private sector, and mall leadership to address workforce gaps in retail and supply chain. Serving as a foundation for future reforms, it aims to boost employment growth by leveraging the sector’s vital contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and its role as a key employer of over 10 million Filipinos, according to the DTI.

Industry support and immediate impact

The job fair, which offered hundreds of career opportunities from leading retailers and logistics providers, drew a diverse crowd of job seekers eager to engage with PRA and SCMAP member companies recruiting for roles in merchandising, warehousing, logistics, and frontline retail.

In the photo: SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Job Fairs Royce Cabunag, Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) President Roberto Claudio Sr., and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Engelbert Chua at the launch of the two-day Section G: Job Blueprint for the Wholesale and Retail Trade Sector job fair at SM North EDSA.

 “This is more than just a job fair—it’s a call to action,” said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President of Marketing at SM Supermalls. “We are proud to partner with DTI, PRA, and SCMAP in hosting this meaningful initiative that connects people to opportunity and promotes inclusive employment.”

SM Supermalls, as host venue and promotional partner, reinforced its commitment to national workforce development and economic recovery. This event is part of SM’s ongoing support for programs that empower micro-, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), job seekers, and industry players.

Job seekers connect with leading retailers and logistics providers offering roles in merchandising, warehousing, and frontline retail.

With Section G now officially launched, stakeholders look forward to implementing its key recommendations and building a stronger, more resilient retail trade sector for all.

SM Supermalls joins the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), and the Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP) in driving inclusive employment at the launch of the Section G Job Blueprint.

About SM Supermalls Job Fairs 

SM Supermalls, a division of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the Philippines' leading developer, operator, and owner of world-class malls. SM Supermalls is dedicated to fostering sustainable and community-centric developments. Through initiatives like job fairs, SM Supermalls continues to play a pivotal role in nation-building, offering opportunities that transform lives and contribute to the well-being of Filipino communities.   

Waves of Change: Thousands Join SM Cares’ Coastal Cleanup In celebration of World Oceans Day 2025

 In celebration of World Oceans Day 2025, over 5,000 volunteers from all walks of life united on June 7 for a massive nationwide coastal cleanup led by SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls. Collectively, they removed an astounding 30,000 kilograms of trash from shorelines across the Philippines—proving that when a community comes together, real impact happens.

 

Thousands of volunteers gather at SM by the BAY in Manila for SM Cares’ flagship coastal cleanup drive for World Oceans Day 2025, showing a united front in the fight against marine pollution.

This year’s theme, “WONDER: Sustaining What Sustains Us,” resonated deeply as volunteers took to coastlines in Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, armed with gloves, sacks, and a shared mission: to protect the oceans that give us life.

 

Beyond fostering community collaboration and promoting environmental responsibility, SM Cares’ coastal cleanup initiative played a vital role in cultivating healthier environment, enhancing the overall quality of life for local residents, and contributing to the long-term preservation of marine ecosystems.

Volunteers from SM City Manila assemble at the coastal cleanup site to remove marine waste and protect vital waterways in celebration of World Oceans Day 2025.

Stepping up for a cleaner tomorrow, volunteers from SM City San Lazaro join the coastal cleanup drive---picking up trash and protecting our shores, one piece at a time.

Showing the power of teamwork, volunteers from SM City Batangas and SM City Lipa come together to make waves of change for World Oceans Day 2025.

With gloves on and bags in hand, volunteers at SM City Lucena take part in SM Cares’ Coastal Cleanup drive, reaffirming their commitment to environmental stewardship and ocean conservation.

Employee volunteers from SM Center Dagupan take action for the environment during the coastal cleanup drive, shoveling sand and debris to help restore the shoreline.

SM City Iloilo volunteers join hands with the local community of Brgy. Sto. Niño Sur, Arevalo in a coastal cleanup drive, working together to preserve the shoreline and promote environmental sustainability.

SM City Davao volunteers are out on the shore, turning dedication into action as they clean up the coast and care for the planet.

Beaming with pride, volunteers at SM City CDO Uptown and Downtown hold up the coastal cleanup banner, standing united as ocean defenders in celebration of World Oceans Day 2025.

“The oceans sustain us every day, and now it's our turn to give back,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Cares Program Director for the Environment. “This coastal cleanup isn’t just a one-day event—it’s a symbol of our shared duty to preserve biodiversity and inspire action for a sustainable future, while bringing lasting positive impacts to the community by advancing healthier coastal spaces, and uniting people through shared environmental action.”

 

A National Movement for the Seas

From students and teachers to LGUs, NGO partners, employees, and security and janitorial teams, the cleanup drew a diverse wave of ocean defenders. SM Cares worked closely with local government units, environmental organizations, youth groups, and coastal barangays to stage cleanups across several major sites nationwide.

These collaborations not only ensured the success of the initiative but also highlighted the power of inclusive, community-driven action. Volunteers gathered to remove tons of waste from shorelines, raise awareness about marine conservation, and inspire long-term behavioral change toward environmental care.

Students, teachers, and partner organizations join forces with SM Cares during the Coastal Cleanup drive—demonstrating a shared commitment to environmental stewardship.

Demonstrating sustained commitment to protecting the environment, SM employee volunteers return to SM by the Bay to help protect the shoreline

Building an #SMWasteFreeFuture

The June 7 cleanup is part of SM Cares’ broader sustainability vision through its #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign, which also includes weekly cleanups at SM by the BAY.

 

This May 2025, SM employee-led cleanups have mobilized a total of 279 volunteers, collecting over 4,493 kilograms of waste—highlighting their firm commitment to keeping our coasts clean on a weekly basis. These sustained efforts contributed to creating a safer, more enjoyable coastal spaces for customers, while encouraging a stronger culture of environmental volunteerism.

 

SM Cares’ Coastal Cleanup also supports and aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), most notably SDG 14: Life Below Water, by directly reducing marine pollution and protecting ocean ecosystems. It also contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action, by raising environmental awareness and promoting community-led climate resilience, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through its collaboration with LGUs, NGOs, schools, and communities.

 

With two more major cleanups planned for the year, SM Cares remains determined in its mission to inspire Filipinos to take action—one shoreline at a time. For more stories and updates on how you can be part of the movement, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or follow @OfficialSMCares on social media.