Potato Corner Introduces Poco: A Fun & Friendly Mascot and the Face of Exciting New Merchandise Line

Potato Corner, the beloved provider of flavorful fries, is delighted to introduce Poco, the vibrant and playful new mascot poised to capture hearts around the globe. After over 30 years of spreading joy through its iconic snacks, Potato Corner is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the introduction of Poco.

Poco embodies the spirit of fun, friendliness, and youthful exuberance that Potato Corner stands for. The brand aimed to create a mascot that not only captivates its audience but also forges a deeper emotional connection with them, enriching their experience.

“We want our guests to associate Poco with traits like fun, friendliness, and youthful exuberance. Poco is the life of the party, always ready to bring a smile to your face and make every moment a memorable one,” says Kitty Silayan, Brand Manager of Potato Corner. “Poco is more than just a mascot; it's a symbol of the joyful moments shared over flavorful snacks at Potato Corner. With its playful demeanor and infectious energy, Poco embodies the essence of our brand, adding an extra layer of fun to every Potato Corner encounter,” Silayan emphasizes during an interview.

Inspired by the playful essence of Poco, Potato Corner also proudly introduces an array of merchandise that mirrors the infectious energy and colorful personality of their beloved mascot. From stylish apparel to playful accessories, each item is crafted with attention to detail to evoke the same sense of excitement and delight that Poco brings to every Potato Corner encounter. Potato Corner’s latest merchandise lineup includes Graphic Tees adorned with Poco designs, stylish Bucket Hats perfect for sunny days, trendy Tote Bags for carrying your essentials in style, adorable stickers that captures Poco’s charm, and a cute magnetic Poco Plushie that you can place on your shoulder, allowing you to share flavorful moments with Poco anytime, anywhere.

“The inspiration behind the Poco Merchandise stems from our desire to encapsulate Poco's personality - playful, friendly, energetic, and outgoing - in merchandise items that are trendy and attractive to our guests. With vibrant colors and cheerful designs featuring Poco, our merchandise collection aims to bring delight and good times to those who will wear/use it.,” shares Dea Santos, Marketing Head. “And this is just the beginning – as we see the overwhelming enthusiasm for Poco and our merchandise line, we're eager to explore new opportunities for expansion and innovation,” Santos adds.

With Poco leading the way, Potato Corner invites fans old and new to join them on this exciting journey filled with laughter, friendship, and fond memories.

To learn more about Poco and explore the exciting merchandise line, visit Potato Corner. 

Pancake House x Coca-Cola: Where Classics Come Together

In celebration of Pancake House's golden year, we are happy to introduce an exciting nostalgic addition to the menu. As part of their 50th anniversary celebration, in collaboration with Coca-Cola, Pancake House offers a classic and nostalgic beverage – Coke in a glass bottle.

A Toast to Tradition: Coke in a Glass Bottle

For many, the sight of a Coca-Cola bottle evokes a sense of timeless charm and fond memories. It's a symbol of shared moments and joyful celebrations, and now, it's making a special appearance at Pancake House as part of the golden year festivities.

As the House Of The Classics, Pancake House has always been committed to preserving the essence of tradition while embracing the spirit of innovation. The addition of Coke in a glass bottle circles back to this – a nod to the past that seamlessly integrates with the present. It's a reminder of simpler times, when a refreshing sip of Coke could turn an ordinary day into something extraordinary.

A Classic Collaboration: Pancake House x Coca-Cola

The partnership between Pancake House and Coca-Cola is more than just a collaboration; it's a celebration of shared values and a commitment to delivering excellence in every sip. 

Selected 12 stores have been chosen as the exclusive venues for this special offering, welcoming diners to experience the nostalgia of Coke in a glass bottle in a cozy and familiar setting. Listed below are the Pancake House branches where you can avail the special treat:

• Petron Marilao North Luzon Tollway (Northbound)

• Shell Balagtas North Luzon Tollway (Northbound)

• UST

• White Plains

• Medical City

• Shell South Luzon Expressway (Southbound)

• DLSU Dasmarinas

• Paseo de Magallanes

• Makati Medical Center

• Bonifacio High Street

• Rockwell

• Burgos Circle

From Petron Marilao to Burgos Circle, these stores become nostalgic Pancake House spots where patrons can indulge in the simple pleasure of a classic Coke, served just the way it was meant to be. And with prices set at only P50, it's an opportunity for everyone to relive cherished memories and create new ones in the company of loved ones.

A Refreshing Addition: A&W Root Beer Float

The celebration doesn't stop there. In addition to Coke in a glass bottle, Pancake House is also introducing another classic favorite – A&W Root Beer Float. Available in all stores at only P159, this timeless beverage adds yet another feature to the nostalgic charm of Pancake House.

Celebrating Tradition, Embracing Innovation

As Pancake House marks its 50th year, it does so with a sense of pride and gratitude for the journey that has brought it to this moment. The introduction of Coke in a glass bottle and A&W Root Beer Float reflects Pancake House's commitment of honoring tradition and embracing the future at the same time. It's a celebration of the past, the present, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. 

On that note, cheers to Pancake House – where classics come together. 

First-ever Parenting Platform by Wyeth and Nestlé Launches to Support Today’s Parents

Embarking on the grand adventure of parenting isn’t always smooth sailing, and today, it’s not quite what it used to be. That’s why Wyeth Nutrition® and Nestlé® Nutrition, two trusted and beloved nutrition giants, have ‘teamed up’ and combined their hundred-plus years of expertise in nutrition science to introduce and launch ParenTeam® – a modern digital platform available via its official website and on social media, filled with helpful resources and tools designed with the needs of today’s moms and dads in mind.

Because navigating the turns and twists of raising happy, healthy kids in today’s world can, on many occasions, feel like a daunting task, with new challenges and opportunities, parents will surely need a capable ally who understands their unique needs and experiences – someone who can help and support them.

In pursuing this support, data shows that parents don’t rely on just one information source to get what they need or want to find out. They seek helpful validation from others to confirm what they know or want to achieve. These primarily include trained experts like their doctors or healthcare professionals, as well as other experienced parents from their circle of family and friends. Furthermore, the data also shows that in today’s world, they heavily consult online sources for their much-needed validation and information.

Mindful of the intent of providing meaningful support where parents look for it, ParenTeam® offers what they need in one welcoming, integrated digital platform with well-organized resources and features that are always on, imparting essential information on children’s nutrition and providing support for parents’ overall wellbeing – laid out thoughtfully so parents can easily find what they’re looking for and navigate to what’s relevant for them and their family.

Whether they’re trying to get pregnant, planning to start and grow a family, taking care of a new little one, or navigating the exciting toddler years, ParenTeam®’s offerings have got them covered.

These include expert articles encompassing various parenting stages and topics—for instance, one that talks about when to take a pregnancy test, which is one of the essentials when attempting to conceive. For parents well into their pregnancy, ParenTeam®’s article on understanding cravings or “paglilihi” could prove helpful, especially during the first trimester.

Parents will find that ParenTeam®’s content is relevant and practical. For example, those looking for help and advice regarding healthcare after giving birth will discover that the platform’s feature piece about mommy on recovery comes packed with thoughtful and insightful ideas. It also has sensible articles on what to do if one’s baby always says “no” and how to read a child’s hunger and fullness cues.

For parents with active young ones, ParenTeam® has an intriguing piece about handling a picky toddler. For those with kids starting preschool, ParenTeam® has informative articles on the three growth nutrients parents must know and the difference between probiotics and prebiotics when it comes to tummy health.

Moreover, the ParenTeam® platform also provides helpful tools that aid parents across their parenting milestones.

For parents trying to conceive, ParenTeam®’s online Ovulation Calendar tool can help determine which days are most likely to have the desired result based on menstrual periods.

In another scenario, mothers looking to enjoy their fantastic journey to motherhood can use ParenTeam®’s Pregnancy Weekly Calendar, which enables them to discover what changes they can expect as they anticipate welcoming the new love of their lives.

Those who want to predict their baby’s birthday can likewise use ParenTeam®’s Due Date Calculator to stay up to date on their delivery and plan for their baby-to-be.

ParenTeam® also has a convenient, child-stage-appropriate Recipe Finder to help parents discover new ideas to try with their kids, intending to help their little ones become healthier and happier.

Complementing these finder tools is a Nutrition Checker, developed by experts to help parents calculate their child’s daily nutrient intake, identify any dietary needs, and provide recommendations on adjusting their daily diet if necessary.

Through these, parents and those who play active parent roles within their families will discover that ParenTeam® can be an ally. It will lend a capable helping hand every step of the way as a supportive space that offers expert-backed guidance and assurance – carefully providing them with the knowledge they require and the answers they seek for whichever parenting stage they’re in.

Beyond these possibilities, parents will find that ParenTeam® isn’t just about information and these valuable tools and features—it’s also about making great parenting connections. By registering to participate, they can learn from experts, share their findings, and grow in knowledge with other co-parents. Plus, they can enjoy exciting and exclusive benefits as members of the ParenTeam® family.

Parents looking to embark on a parenting journey filled with support, encouragement, and much care and love are invited to join ParenTeam®. Please visit the official website today at https://www.parenteam.com.ph/  to register and explore what ParenTeam® offers. 

Jollibee launches the ALL-NEW Iced Mocha!

Jollibee, the Philippines' most loved fast-food chain, is stirring up the coffee scene once again with its newest addition to Jollibee Coffee Blends – the new Iced Mocha. Their freshly brewed coffee, made with 100% Arabica beans, is now mixed with creamy chocolate to give you that perfect mood-boosting blend, perfect for coffee lovers looking for an indulgent pick-me-up!

The all-new Iced Mocha combines the richness of freshly brewed coffee with the smoothness of creamy chocolate, creating an irresistible blend that gives you that coffee kick and satisfies your sweet cravings.

“More than that kick of caffeine, we now usually drink coffee for that mood-boosting feeling, and Jollibee’s new Iced Mocha is all about giving you the 2 contrasting experiences of rich, freshly brewed coffee and creamy chocolate, blended perfectly for that much-needed coffee break vibe,” says Luis Berba, Marketing Director of Jollibee. "It's more than just a drink; it’s an experience, offering a deliciously rich blend of chocolate and coffee to elevate your mood."

A Deliciously Rich Blend Like No Other

The Iced Mocha is available in both regular and large sizes; the new Iced Mocha Float is also available for a sweeter and more indulgent option. Whether you’re taking a much-needed break from a busy day or just want to indulge in something special, the new Iced Mocha and Iced Mocha Float are designed to be your go-to pick-me-up and mood-booster.

Crafted to please Filipinos’ sweeter coffee preference, Iced Mocha is priced perfectly for your daily vibe starting at P60, and P75 for the Iced Mocha Float. This new addition to Jollibee Coffee Blends is available starting April 24.

Check out the New Vibe at Jollibee

"Get that vibe with our new Iced Mocha," invites Luis "Again, it’s not just a coffee, it’s a vibe—an experience to enjoy and share."

Don’t miss out on this deliciously rich choco-coffee blend—head to your nearest Jollibee and taste the vibe for yourself! Available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery via the Jollibee App, JollibeeDelivery.com, #87000, GrabFood, and Foodpanda.

For all the latest updates, like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. 

yoboo Unveils the All-in-One Solution for Baby’s Laundry Needs

Japanese-based brand yoboo recently introduced its latest innovations tailored for the delicate needs of babies in the Philippines. With the launch of its baby detergent and fabric conditioner, yoboo aims to provide comprehensive care for babies’ clothes, ensuring not only cleanliness but also utmost comfort for the little ones.

“As babies’ skin is more delicate than adults’, it’s essential that their laundry products provide the right care for both their clothing and their skin,” said Dr. Chinen Rina, founder of yoboo. “With this in mind, yoboo's new products are crafted to meet the key criteria for selecting the ideal laundry solutions for infants, also catering to parents who prioritize gentle, effective care and soothing comfort.”

Formulated to safeguard delicate skin, the yoboo Calendula Baby Laundry Detergent offers an anti-bacterial and anti-mite formula, ensuring thorough cleanliness without compromising on gentleness. It excels in tackling stubborn stains, breaking them down effectively and leaving behind no residue. Infused with natural essential oils, this detergent not only cleans but also provides a soothing touch to babies' clothes.

Complementing the detergent is the yoboo Lavender Fabric Softener, designed to enhance the softness and comfort of babies' garments. Its environmentally friendly, water-soluble formula ensures gentle care for both fabrics and hands. By smoothing out roughness in clothing and eliminating excess static, it leaves clothes feeling irresistibly soft and cozy, perfect for sensitive baby skin.

True to yoboo's commitment to quality and safety, both products are hypoallergenic, chemical-free, and dermatologist-approved. This reassures parents that they are choosing products that prioritize the well-being of their little ones. 

Forward Thinking Farmers

Jayson and Juanito proudly showcase a selection of produce at the SM City Clark’s Weekend Market.

While modern agricultural techniques boost yields for some, there remains a number of Filipino farmers who struggle to keep pace. These experienced hands find themselves falling behind in a market demanding higher production, clinging to familiar yet often inefficient methods passed down through generations.

One farmer from Pampanga, Jayson Garcia, sought to disrupt this prevailing narrative in his family. He knew that he had to chart a new course forward for his farm and innovate to remain competitive within the rapidly evolving landscape of modern agriculture.

“Noon, mahirap ang magtanim,” he recalled their life before joining SM Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan. “Para bang tsambahan, basta pag itinanim mo ‘yan, hintayin mo na lang mamunga. Mas mahirap pa lalo kapag nagkaroon ng kalamidad,” he added. 

SM Foundation’s training program focused on high-value crop cultivation was the breakthrough Garcia needed to revitalize his farming techniques. These included selecting the best seeds and caring for them as well as strategic planting schedules. 

Jayson attends the SM City Clark’s Weekend Market to observe best practices and gain insights into new agricultural techniques.

The livelihood program also gave way for him to discover alternative sales channels that enhanced his earning potential while extending fair prices to his customers. The knowledge and confidence he gained led him to expand his farm, and in effect, increased his monthly income to more than Php25,000.

Aside from directly selling his harvests, he is now planting a variety of vegetables–on his farm, including lemongrass, malunggay, and madre de cacao, which he sells online to small businesses that process the produce into other products. 

Embracing new techniques

Sharing the same story of hope is another KSK farmer from Pampanga, Juanito Dela Cruz. Despite his age, he actively pursued and adopted modern farming techniques. Building on his current success, he shared the importance of adaptability for farmers, calling for others to try and explore new practices. 

From a modest monthly income of Php10,000, Juanito experienced an upsurge in his earnings, notably through participation in the Weekend Market at SM City Clark, yielding around Php30,000 weekly. “Kailangan maging bukas tayo sa makabagong pamamaraan ng pagsasaka para makahabol tayo sa demands ng panahon ngayon—ito ang itinuo sa akin ng SM Foundation-KSK,” he said. 

Juanito, alongside his wife, actively participates in the SM City Clark Weekend Market. They credit the market with contributing to their increased profitability.

The SM Group’s KSK program has changed the lives of roughly 30,000 Filipino farmers, including Jayson and Juanito. Through its initiatives, farmers who once lost hope have been able to embrace modern farming techniques, leading to adaptability in the face of the evolving agricultural landscape. 

The SM Group, through SM Foundation, remains steadfast in its commitment to spreading social good. This dedication extends to SM’s forthcoming endeavors to be led by its future smart city property development – with focus on enhancing positive social impact in the communities where SM operates. 

Urban Planning Concept City to Rise in Pasay

For the modern urban dweller, 15 minutes is a lot of time. 

A lot of productive things can be done – a high-intensity, interval training (HITT) workout or run a 1.5-kilometer route, clearing your emails, meditating, catching up on the news, or preparing a quick smoothie – all within 15 minutes. 

But for the Metro Manila commuter, 15 minutes is barely enough to get from point A to point B. During rush hour, it is most likely that within this time, you still haven’t moved an inch.

 

Ever heard of the 15-minute city? It’s a modern urban planning concept that puts people and the planet first. The term was coined by Paris-based urbanist and Sorbonne University professor Carlos Moreno wherein he said that the ideal neighborhood or city is built in such a way where work, food, housing, education and cultural activities can be easily accessed within 15 minutes, whether by foot or by using a bike. 

An artist’s render of a 15-minute city, where work, food, housing, education and cultural activities are easily within reach.

Pasay City, in its forward-looking 360-hectare smart city development, aims to create an innovative tropical 15-minute city for over 300,000 residents. 

Situated at the edge of a densely-packed and overpopulated metropolis perpetually in a traffic gridlock, this city will provide respite to its residents and visitors with sustainable, inclusive, safe, and healthy living where all their needs can be accessed within reach. 

Among its intended features, the project is envisioned to have low carbon and safe mobility networks with multimodal public transport services and enhanced infrastructure that prioritizes active mobility like walking and biking. There will be parking lots equipped with electric vehicle charging stations, dedicated bike lanes, easily accessible public transport hubs, and unimpeded pedestrian walkways.

An artist’s rendition of a soon-to-rise 15-minute city in Pasay

This assures lower transportation costs, less carbon emissions, and most importantly, healthier and happier people. No more long and tiring queues at the EDSA bus carousel or sitting hours on end in the middle of EDSA traffic. 

The project has been thoughtfully planned and designed for many years, and finally it has received the green light by government to proceed. In fact, no less than Albay 2nd district Rep. Joey Salceda highlighted how the Pasay-led project is expected to earn billions in real estate assets for the government. 

Revenues from the project will generate a massive multiplier effect on our gross domestic product (GDP) and an estimated 300,000 new jobs from 2027 to 2040. By 2035, it is projected to employ 4% of the National Capital Region’s (NCR) total work force.

The Pasay 360 Project will be a city that nurtures lives and livelihood, is expected to revitalize the economy, and hone the next generation of Filipino leaders. It can be a source of pride for Filipinos as we push towards the 22nd century.  

Venue Infrastructure Gaps, a Threat to Filipino Concertgoers Experience

Countries with better, bigger, and more competitive concert venues have reaped economic benefits, especially with the massive and significant influence of popular international acts like pop superstar Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Coldplay’s World Tour in consumer behavior and spending. 

Driving tens of thousands of ‘Swifties’ and concert enthusiasts, the success of these concerts was an economic stimulus for countries worldwide, including Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore and Japan.  Filipino fans alike had to spend big and travel miles to watch the exclusive performance of superstar Swift in Singapore’s National Stadium while others went to Japan’s Tokyo Dome and Sydney’s Accor Stadium in Australia. The massive concert gigs boosted the respective country’s economies, benefitting entertainment, hospitality, retail, and transport industries significantly.

While Singapore’s strategy for a Southeast Asia exclusive Swift performance piqued interest and likewise piqued its neighboring countries, the strategic move sparked conversations and brought to light what the Philippines can improve on in terms of concert venues.

1. Location is key

The Philippines doesn’t lack in big venues. In fact, it boasts of venues that can rival Singapore’s National Stadium and Japan’s Tokyo Dome. Accessibility to the location as well as public transportation and nearby commercial establishments are key.

2. Concert Experience

Photo credit to Stanley Quek. An empty Singapore National Stadium, viewed from the front stage.

Singapore’s pride, the National Stadium, has innovative features such as the world’s largest free-spanning dome, a retractable roof and comfort cooling technology for spectators’ convenience. Its innovation, strategic location, and efficiency bring positive and immersive experiences for enthusiasts and concert fans, making it a magnet for entertainment acts from all over the world. A similar concert venue and experience is something that Filipino concertgoers are hoping the country can replicate. 

3. World-class concert amenities and facilities

Accessing the venue's amenities and facilities should offer a premium music experience for concert enthusiasts or convenience in a sporting event.

Architectural “Eyecon” SM Mall of Asia Arena prides itself on having exceptional world-class amenities unique in the Southeast Asia region. –Photo from SM MOA Arena official website

FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 held in SM Mall of Asia Arena – Photo from SM MOA Arena official website

Take for example the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena – a flexible indoor arena developed in 2012 by leading integrated property developer SM Prime – that has been a top-of-mind venue for all sorts of events and offers a unique concert experience. With a full house seating capacity of 20,000, it has been a haven for thrilling sports events, remarkable OPM shows, and unforgettable international superstar performances. 

Meanwhile, the SMDC Festival Grounds in Parañaque City is likewise an enormous outdoor venue that can accommodate at least 50,000 people. Ed Sheeran’s Mathematics Tour and Rivermaya The Reunion were among the performers that have graced the stage recently.

4. Achieving Filipinos’ concert dreams

One of the most forward-looking plans of SM Prime is its 360-hectare smart city development which is envisioned to bring in a centerpiece to the country’s entertainment and sporting events – larger in capacity and a more enhanced venue infrastructure that would attract legendary icons in the entertainment scene and compete against Southeast Asia and the world’s best. It will feature an estimated 70,000-capacity stadium and concert arena connected to one of the island’s main destination paradises called Central Park. The sizable arena is envisioned to be the Philippines’ biggest concert venue, with world-class facilities and sustainable features, comparable to other big concert venues worldwide. Once that’s built, Filipinos won’t have to fly overseas because they can watch top-tier performances right from the comfort of their home country.

An artist’s render, visual sketch of the proposed concert venue at Pasay 360 project.

https://www.pexels.com/photo/band-playing-on-stage-2747446/

Without a doubt, Pinoys live and breathe entertainment shows. In fact, Filipinos are the 4th top concert spenders in Asia-Pacific according to digital payments company Visa, proof of how passionate we are about concerts. By investing in the development of modern, smart, and accessible concert venues, Filipino concert enthusiasts can continue to embrace and celebrate live performances with the convenience, comfort, and enjoyment they deserve. Beyond entertainment, well-curated, smart, and innovative concert facilities can further drive economic benefits to the Philippines’ national and local economies, including ancillary local spending in retail, tourism, and hospitality. 

SM Prime Embarks on a Unified Waste Management Program for an #SMWasteFreeFuture

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, is embarking on a unified waste management and segregation campaign in response to the growing global crises on waste. SM Prime aims to bring all its property groups and stakeholders toward an #SMWasteFreeFuture. 

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), humanity generates more than 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste annually, of which 45 percent is mismanaged. Without urgent action, municipal solid waste will double to almost 4 billion tons each year by 2050. On December 14, 2022, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 30 as the International Day of Zero Waste.

The following year, UNEP inaugurated the First International Day of Zero Waste, to bolster actions to address the global pollution crisis. It aims to encourage global action and bring the world’s attention to zero waste. 

Strong foundations 

SM Prime’s founding leader, Henry Sy, believed that “business growth and social development must go hand in hand.” The company follows this guiding principle and has formed a sustainability policy that commits to the following: Resource Conservation and Efficiency, Disaster Resilience, Climate Advocacy, Social Integration, and Transparent Reporting. 

Anchored on these sustainability commitments are the SM Supermalls’ Environmental Programs on Waste Management. Through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, SM Supermalls has pioneered longstanding programs such as the Trash to Cash recycling market, and provided support to the annual International Coastal Clean Up, among other national events.

(Photo caption) The largest haul and biggest participation to-date: The 38th International Coastal Clean-up had 17,000 volunteers across 15 SM Malls in 12 locations nationwide. It is an annual community-driven partnership between SM Supermalls, SM Cares, the DENR, LGU’s and the volunteers from the SM community. 

In the hotel and tourism sector, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has taken the lead in mitigating global food waste by implementing sustainable initiatives across its properties in the Philippines. Their key initiatives include the World Wide Fund for Nature’s Sustainable Diner Program, that aims to transform and help the food service sector minimize its impact on the environment thru resource efficiency, plastic refusal and food waste management and contribute to the world’s future food security. 

(Photo caption) Closing the loop: SMHCC’s sustainability efforts are anchored on the 7Gs or Seven Green Goals, based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG). The overall thrust for sustainability is cascaded to the rest of properties, ensuring that it is embedded at every step of the hotel’s operations, ensured by property Sustainability Champions.

To support these programs, SM Prime also recently unveiled its waste-to-fuel partnership with GUUN Co. Ltd. (GUNN) to implement the Japanese technique of reducing landfill impact. The technology converts non-recyclable and hard-to-recycle packaging into alternative fuel. 

(Photo caption) No time to waste: Sorting through the amount of trash at the GUUN Facility in Cebu. Unfit for recycling and reuse, the waste material recovered avoids the landfill and is then reconverted to fuel resource. 

A Vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture 

To mark the International Day of Zero Waste on March 30, 2024, SM Prime is releasing its vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture. “As a community, we strongly believe in our ability to contribute to solving today's waste issues,” said Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability champion. 

SM Prime’s announcement of its vision of an #SMWasteFreeFuture demonstrates the company’s strong commitment and sustainability stewardship, by inviting its stakeholders to engage in activities that will help spread zero-waste awareness and work for a sustainable and environmentally responsible approach on waste management.

“We understand that this may seem like a daunting challenge to overcome However, by joining forces, we can create a world that our future generations truly deserve – if we have the courage to take on this journey together,” said Sy. 

SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon on integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future.  

Jobs on the Rise: New Urban Developments Are Driving Employment Growth

Photo credit to Anamul Rezwan. Construction jobs are generated from new urban developments.

Cities worldwide, while diverse in demographics and culture, share a common pursuit of progress through new urban developments. These projects not only enhance convenience amid urban congestion but also stimulate local economies and communities through various socio-economic activities like job creation.

Whether in the form of public transportation, cutting-edge business districts, or towering residential communities, a single new development requires a whole host of jobs from pre-construction, to construction, and completion. These range from real estate developers and planners to construction workers and suppliers – all requiring extensive collaboration for successful project development.

Hudson Yards: Direct and indirect employment opportunities

Photo credit to Following NYC. Featuring ‘Vessel’, a honeycomb-like structure and visitor attraction in the Hudson Yards Development in Manhattan, New York City. 

The cycle of job creation doesn’t stop after completion. A new development also drives indirect employment opportunities generated from industries attracted or related to the development. 

Such is the case for Hudson Yards, New York City’s 28-acre mixed-use development and considerably the United States’ biggest megadevelopment in history. It had created thousands of construction jobs that resulted in transforming Manhattan’s iconic skyline and becoming home to diverse shops, offices, cultural institutions, and hotels and residences. Ongoing operations and management of these facilities are expected to contribute to its large-scale economy, such as hosting over 55,752 workers daily and about $19 billion annually to the city’s GDP. 

Dubai and Songdo IBD: Creating economic opportunities afresh

Meanwhile, cities like Dubai and Songdo International Business District (IBD) generate jobs by creating economic opportunities from the ground up. They used land reclamation as an urban development strategy to address land scarcity and high population density challenges.

Photo credit to Kadir Avşar. A closer aerial view of the Palm Islands. 

Dubai's ambitious projects, including the Palm Islands, the World Islands, and Burj Al Arab, have turned it into an ultramodern metropolis for commerce and tourism. In 2023, it drew over 30,000 new businesses, driving demand for talent in finance, legal, and digital technology sectors.

The Songdo IBD is an ongoing smart city built on reclaimed land in Incheon, South Korea. It’s designed to be an international business and residential hub with sustainable features. As of 2020, the 1,500-acre development hosts about 30,000 residents, 33,000 jobs, and 70% fewer emissions than any other development.

SM’s Integrated City Developments: Empowering local communities and residents

SM Prime contributed photo. An aerial view of SM Mall of Asia (MOA) featuring its iconic Globamaze and thriving network of retail, business, residential, and hotel developments. 

The SM Group, a leading conglomerate in the Philippines, has an ecosystem of interests spanning retail, banking, property, and mall developments across the country, making it the largest employer with over 140,000 employees.

For every SM mall development by SM Prime Holdings, the integrated property developer of the Group, the local economy is invigorated because of the opportunities created by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that comprise about 68% of its mall tenants. For instance, SM City Bataan, SM Supermalls’ 83rd mall, employs about 96% of its mall administration staff who are residents called Bataeños, including two in leadership roles. It also proudly showcases local industries by partnering with homegrown businesses like family-owned brands and locally managed franchises. 

Job security, stable income, and tax revenues contribute to the local workforce’s quality of life; and SM Prime ensures to manifest these waves of progress in its developments, especially in its future plans for smart cities in the Philippines to be spearheaded by its ongoing 360-hectare development in Pasay City.

New urban developments are catalysts for growth, innovation, and avenues for increased prosperity, shaping local economies through job creation and improved lives. The success of these city centers requires a network of opportunities – from its pre-construction supply chain to empowering businesses for individuals to thrive and contribute to the communities.