SM Prime: Smarter Water Management for a Resilient Future

Manila, Philippines — Water is a limited resource, and many Philippine cities face pressure on their supply due to rapid urbanization and climate change. SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, prioritizes water efficiency as a core operational strategy to pave the way for a water-resilient future. 

The result is a portfolio-wide water intensity of 0.44 m³/m²/year, already surpassing water efficiency standards of some of the leading global benchmarks.

For SM Supermalls, every chance to collect and conserve water is explored. Simple low-flow fixtures and the adoption of water-saving technologies prevent unnecessary consumption at scale. Recycling air conditioning condensate and processed water minimizes dependence on fresh water, and innovative approaches that capture portions of floodwater for non-potable use support sustainable water management.

This efficiency means that for every square meter of mall space, SM Supermalls' water use translates into millions of liters saved annually. 

Beyond equipment and systems upgrades, culturally integrating sustainability values is part of the solution. Water education campaigns for tenant-partners, employees, and mallgoers promote the wider sustainability campaign of the SM Green Movement.

Creating a sustainable mall experience like no other, SM Supermalls believes that investing in efficient and scalable water management systems also means bringing everyone together to ensure water for tomorrow. 

“Our mall water management systems are already at par with some of the best in the world. We do this because we understand that every liter saved eases the pressure on local water resources and secures our operations for the long term,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.

Every drop makes a difference, and conserving the planet’s valuable resources is communicated through SM Cares’ large and unique community platform, whether in the malls or on social media. The interactive and visually rich content is especially appealing for the younger, digitally active millennial and Gen Z workforce. 

“Our work in the malls is to make sure that we give you the best experience without compromising the needs of tomorrow, but of course, we cannot do it alone. When we combine all our actions as a community, no matter how big or small these are, we can all enjoy a water-resilient future,” said Tan.

What I Learned from Tatang: Employees and Colleagues Share Stories about SM’s Henry Sy, Sr.

When the Mall of Asia opened in 2006, Henry Sy, Sr. was walking around the SM Store alongside Ma. Cecilia Abreu, who was then Assistant Vice President for Store Operations.

As is usually the case with Mr. Sy, he dropped by the Shoe section, checked the shoes and sandals, and then asked a few questions to the sales clerks. “Marami pa ba nito? Are these fast-moving?”

The questions did not stop there. Holding one sandal, he asked Abreu a question that stayed with her: “Can our customers still afford to buy our sandals at this price?”

“Ang iniisip niya talaga is kaya pa ba ‘to ng customer. Very consistent si Mr. Sy when understanding his customers, what they want, and what they need,” Abreu shared. 

That consistency in understanding the market has stayed with SM through the years. Providing customers with affordable and quality items goes way back to Tatang - the name Mr. Sy, Sr. was fondly called by those whose lives he touched. 

Once an Assistant Branch Manager of SM Makati, Abreu has a lot of stories about Tatang.

“Meron rin kaming isang customer. Nagdadala siya ng maraming bag. Hindi naman siya bumibili. Then she would always look for Mr. Sy. Uupo siya dun sa daanan ng lobby namin. Sasabihan namin si Tatang, Sir andyan na naman ho yung lady na palaging naghahanap sa inyo. Tatang would tell us with a smile on his face, ‘let her sit there.’”

Honoring commitments, respecting hard work

Continuing the story of the SM Makati customer, Chelo Monasterio, once an SM Makati Branch Manager, said, “Tatang feels that SM is for everyone. That’s why di ba kahit pag typhoon, we will open. It was because, for Mr. Sy, we are a shelter for people.”

Monasterio joined SM 41 years ago, back when there were only three stores: Quiapo, Cubao, and Ermita. Climbing the ladder from HR manager, SM Makati Branch Manager to becoming SM Store President, and now a Consultant for SM Retail, Monasterio shared with pride, “We were trained by Tatang. So what we think, what we impart came from him. He molded us to be what we are. He managed us but he did not make us scared of him. We could tell him how we felt and he would never take it against us. He listened to what people had to say.”


Shoemart Makati in the 1980s

According to Monasterio, Tatang was not flowery with his words. He was very direct to the point. These words, simple as they may seem, made their mark on her, “These are the words that I carry with me.” In one instance, Tatang told her. “Chelo, there are two traits that you should have that will make you successful. One, you have to have common sense. And the other one is you have to have industry.”

With a smile, remembering those days at SM Makati as Branch Manager, Monasterio shared, “Mr. Sy mentored me on selling operations. He would help me in the morning and talk to me about merchandising, and shoes. He would talk about how to handle people including suppliers - that you have to be kind and that you have to honor your commitments to them because that will dictate your reputation.”

Tatang liked to spend time and talk and share his dreams and aspirations.

“When he shares it with you, you feel a certain affinity - that you belong and that you’re gonna help him with his vision,” Monasterio said.

Believing in your vision and your people

On Mr. Sy’s last visit touring SM Store’s Distribution Center in Paranaque, Rose Siaco still remembers what he told her, “This is a bonus, Rose, and it’s not part of my vision.”

The Distribution Center (DC) is where SM Store’s suppliers drop their products for transfer to SM Store branches and Retail affiliates across the Philippines.

In 1978, Siaco was a practicing Medical Technologist who dared to try something outside of her comfort zone. She started her journey as Shoemart Inc.’s Supplies Officer that year. This is where her organizational skills and attention to detail would come in handy.

Seeing that Siaco thrives on challenges, she was given the task by Mr. Sy of becoming an acting warehouse manager. “I told him that it’s a man’s world, but he told me to train as a warehouse manager. He said to me, ‘I need your talent. I don’t need your physical strength. That would be too taxing for you,’” Siaco shared.

This encouraged her and inspired her to enroll in management courses. “Talagang nag train ako. I attended seminars. Those were the days na pag nag attend ako ng seminar, I was the only female participant,” Siaco further added.

For her, Tatang is really a disciplinarian, like a strict teacher. “If you make a mistake, i-cocorrect ka na niya - on the spot. Ganun siya mag train.” She also said that he also informed the affected staff of the consequences of the mistake.

Other than thriving on new challenges, Siaco shared the reason why she stayed with SM for 45 years: “Kaya rin ako nagtagal, I don’t feel that they are other people. They treat their employees like family.”

Stories shared, vision realized

Abreu shared another anecdote. “Supermarket. After his usual ‘rounds,’ Tatang bade farewell to everyone. He got into his car but before the car even left, Mr. Sy got out of the car. Everyone was still outside, waving and thanking him for the visit. Mr. Sy said in a clear voice ‘I want to thank each and every one of you for your hard work.’”

Sharing his vision, telling stories, and words of gratitude are the ways in which Tatang showed he cared. Now, his employees and colleagues from the small stores of Quiapo and Makati continue to tell his stories and help the company realize his vision.

SM CENTER SANGANDAAN CELEBRATES WORLD ANIMAL DAY

SM Center Sangandaan is all set to host an event that promises a wagging good time for pets and their owners alike as the mall celebrates World Animal Day. On October 4, the mall will transform into a haven for furry friends, featuring a range of engaging activities and partnerships with notable pet enthusiasts and local pet businesses.

The festivities at SM Center Sangandaan will commence with a pet blessing ceremony, where pets and their owners can receive blessings for health and happiness. At the heart of this event is a Corgi Meet that will bring together corgi enthusiasts and their adorable companions. Biggie_thecorgi, a social media sensation, will be present to host the gathering, making it an unforgettable day for Corgi lovers and their four-legged companions. This delightful gathering of corgis promises to be a heartwarming spectacle, showcasing the charm and playfulness of these adorable furballs.

For the health and wellness of our furry companions, SM Center Sangandaan has teamed up with NCE Sangandaan Animal Clinic to offer pet anti-rabies vaccination, deworming, and check-up services. The experienced professionals from NCE Sangandaan Animal Clinic will be on-site to ensure that each pet receives the care they deserve.

To add a dash of culinary delight, the mall has partnered with The Little Paw Partissier to present an exclusive Pet Buffet. From scrumptious treats to specially crafted meals, this culinary experience will pamper pets with a delectable assortment of flavors, sure to have tails wagging in approval.

The celebration doesn't end there! Pet Games will also be the highlight of the event, providing entertainment for both pets and their owners. From fun agility courses to exciting challenges, there will be something for every pet to enjoy. Prizes and giveaways will make it even more thrilling for participants.

Additionally, our furry friends will have a chance to enjoy a variety of pet treats provided by our generous pet brand sponsors. These treats are sure to delight your pets and add a touch of sweetness to their day.

In addition to these exciting activities, SM Center Sangandaan will be partnering with local shelter, Whelps, for a special Pet Adoption event. This event encourages prospective pet owners to consider adoption, offering them the opportunity to provide a loving home to a deserving lovable companion.

World Animal Day is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about animal welfare and celebrating the diverse and incredible array of creatures that share our planet. SM Center Sangandaan is proud to stand with this cause with spectacular events aimed at uniting animal lovers, fostering a deeper appreciation for our loyal companions, and advocating responsible pet ownership.

SM Supermalls Launches 100 Days of Christmas

The countdown to Christmas Day begins on September 16 as SM launches a host of fun activities, deals, and surprises for each member of the family. 

It starts with surprises each day! From September 16 to December 25, someone lucky will be surprised, one mall at a time, with toys, gifts, groceries and meals on us as SM begins 100 Days of Christmas Surprises. Which mall will delight someone today? Come to SM to find out! 

WHAT ELSE IS A-HAPPENIN’? 

Breathtaking Spectacles, to mark the festive season, will dazzle you at your favorite SM mall. Your favorite malls will all be dressed with a dazzling display of holiday magic and sparkling Christmas centerpieces await shoppers inside the malls for that IG-worthy moment. 

Start your holiday gift shopping early on with a trove of artisan products and services from local MSMEs at the Holiday Bazaars. Toys, games, and collectibles are waiting to make this holiday season unforgettable at the Christmas Toy Fairs, in partnership with Toy Kingdom and Toy Kingdom Express. 

Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s bringing his merry squad along! Captivating performances, musicales, ensure there’s something for everyone at every visit.

Pets are family too, and SM Supermalls knows it!  Bring your furry friends to select SM malls for a pawsome Christmas Pawty packed with games and prizes for furbabies in pet costumes. 

Welcome our Overseas Filipino Workers and Families! With the help of BDO Kabayan, SM Supermalls will be bringing holiday cheer to our modern-day heroes at the Pamaskong Handog by BDO Kabayan in SM City Cebu, SM City Fairview, and SM City General Santos with Superstars, prizes, and laughs galore. 

Let’s not forget that you can make a positive impact on the lives of those in need while enjoying your shopping. Buy one SM Cares’ Bears of Joy, and we will donate to one underprivileged child. 

And the fun never ends! On News Year’s Eve, welcome 2024 with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration at SM Mall of Asia, SM Seaside Cebu, SM Lanang, and SM CDO Uptown. 

To know more about SM Supermalls’ 100 Days of Surprises, visit https://gosm.link/100DaysOfChristmasSurprises for daily surprise videos, www.smsupermalls.com, and follow @SMSupermalls on social media for all the Christmas surprises!

Coastal Land Reclamation: A Glimpse into Today’s Urban Development Strategies

Photo credit to Anastasia Yudin. An aerial shot of Flower Dome in Singapore. 

Coastal land reclamation is increasing and will continue to grow and be a popular urban strategy in places that experience urban growth. 

This is according to a study, “Mapping 21st Century Global Coastal Land Reclamation,” that analyzed landsat satellite images from 2000 to 2020 to quantify spatial extent, scale, and land use of urban coastal reclamation of 135 cities globally with populations exceeding one million. Key findings indicate that 78% of these cities have turned to reclamation to create additional land, resulting in 253,000 hectares of new land, an area equivalent to Luxembourg.

Land reclamation is the process of creating new land from the sea. It’s often used in places with scarcity of land and high population density for many purposes. From Western Europe and West Africa to the Middle East, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, these countries’ cities reclaim lands for port extension, residential/commercial, and industrial purposes aimed at creating tourist and green spaces. Key drivers like global trade and rapid urbanization are already ubiquitous, so for the next step, these cities desire prestigious place-making efforts and enhanced international reputation. 

“Coastal land reclamation is a forward-looking approach to urban development,” says Architect Ian Fulgar, the principal architect of Fulgar Architects. It allows cities to preserve valuable ecosystems and resources from urban sprawl by expanding spaces without encroaching on existing natural land. More importantly for architects, urban planners, and modern city dwellers, it presents an opportunity to have purpose-built urban environments specifically designed to meet their needs.

“Architects and urban planners can design sustainable and efficient infrastructure with a blank canvas, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices in urban planning. This approach can lead to more resilient and adaptive cities capable of mitigating the effects of climate change and other environmental challenges,” adds Architect Fulgar. 

Cities that lead coastal land reclamation 

Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong, says Architect Fulgar, are some of the world’s most notable cities with impressive urban reclamation projects. “Not only have they transformed their respective landscapes but also captured global attention,” he says. 

Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are testaments to the city-state’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The former is a luxury integrated resort famed for transforming Singapore’s coastline and city skyline, whereas the latter is a spectacularly unique horticultural destination that combines art, science, and nature. These reclaimed land developments further boost the country’s international reputation and real estate value around the area. 

For some parts of the United Arab Emirates, coastal land reclamation has significantly changed its geography. Dubai, which has completely transformed into an ultramodern city, features ambitious projects now known as some of the most recognizable developments in the world like Palm Jumeirah and The World. “They have reshaped the coastline and established the city as a leader in innovative development, significantly elevating Dubai’s real estate value and worldwide interest,” says Architect Fulgar.

Photo credit to Abid Bin Nazar. An aerial view of Palm Jumeirah. 

Palm Jumeirah is an awe-inspiring artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree when viewed from above. It houses some of Dubai’s luxury hotels, residences, and entertainment venues. Likewise, The World is a groundbreaking project composed of small artificial islands in the shape of a world map.

Lastly, Hong Kong’s commitment to preserved art, culture, and ongoing sustainable urban development is exemplified by its West Kowloon Cultural District. It is a 40-hectare reclaimed site along Victoria Harbour’s waterfront designated as the city’s vibrant cultural quarter where the local arts scene can interact, develop, and collaborate throughout its sustainability principles. 

Architect Fulgar, who firmly believes in creating spaces that foster belonging and unity, highlights that Singapore, Dubai, and Hong Kong share common denominators in their successful urban reclamation projects. These are innovative design and planning, focus on sustainability and commitment to cultural and societal development, and the subsequent increase in real estate value.

“These projects have created iconic and visually striking landscapes by pushing the boundaries of engineering and urban design. Sustainability is often at the forefront, integrating practices and technologies that minimize environmental impact and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors,” says Architect Fulgar on these cities’ commitment to sustainability atop function and aesthetics.

Best practices of coastal land reclamation

Despite recognition of world-class reclamation projects, one of their primary challenges is facing criticism and potential issues over sustainability concerns. Architect Fulgar shares that the solution is through the responsibility of vital stakeholders to adopt a collaborative approach and adaptive strategies in implementing best practices, such as prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience goals in waterfront developments. 

“The future of city development, especially in coastal areas, rests with stakeholders prioritizing sustainability and disaster resilience. By adopting a comprehensive, collaborative, and adaptable strategy, they can transform the design, construction, and management of waterfront development – ultimately creating more sustainable, resilient, and prospering urban environments that benefit both people and the environment,” adds Architect Fulgar. 

Moreover, Architect Fulgar puts emphasis on a well-planned project that begins with the developers’ thorough research and analysis of the selected area about potential environmental impacts, disaster risks, and local community needs. Architects and engineers need to incorporate sustainable design principles and green and blue spaces to reduce the development's environmental footprint.

“Trends and insights on global reclamation illustrate the potential of reclamation projects in addressing various urban development, environmental conservation, and community well-being needs – leading to more sustainable and resilient urban planning worldwide. By adopting these lessons and focusing on sustainable growth, the Philippines can capitalize on its potential and carve a path to a brighter future.”

SM Foundation Introduces Rainwater Harvesting for Sustainable Impact

In line with the SM Green Movement, the SM group, through SM Foundation, recently established a rainwater harvesting system at the Brgy. Irawan Birthing Facility in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. The initiative aims to strengthen their goal of preserving the environment and ensuring the health and wellness of future generations.

To enhance water conservation and management in the facility, the system collects rainwater from the roof and gutter, passing it through vinyl-coated mesh filters to help ensure water quality. With an 800-liter storage capacity, the harvested water serves the facility’s non-potable needs like watering plants, cleaning, and toilet flushing.

The rainwater harvesting facility also operates without electricity and features labeled faucets for intuitive recycled water use.

Midwife Narcisa Jagmis, who leads the said birthing facility, said that the facility will help them reduce their reliance on the city’s water supply systems.

“Mahalagang hindi kami nawawalan ng tubig sa center, lalo na po pag nagsimula kaming magoperate bilang birthing clinic. Ngunit minsan po, walang dumadaloy na tubig at wala kaming mapagkukunan,” Jagmis shared.  

“Kaya napaka laking tulog po ng natural na tubig mula sa rainwater catchment system na. Madali namin itong naaccess upang gamiting panglinis o pandilig dahil konektado ito sa mga gripo. Ang tubig naman mula sa main line ay maitatabi namin para sa aming sterile operations,” she said.

Faucets connected to the rainwater catchment are duly marked to help guide the community.

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SCPW, UAPSA Join Hands with SM Prime in Promoting Wetland Conservation

As the world celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity 2023, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) joined the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc. (SCPW) hosted the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium on May 29th at the MAAX Building in the Mall of Asia Complex.

Bannering the theme "Build Back Biodiversity: Wetland Centers and Nature-Based Architecture," the hybrid symposium featured presentations centered on fostering knowledge and awareness about wetland conservation and innovative design approaches. 

SCPW president Ar. Celestino Ulep leads the opening of the Wetland Center Design Symposium

SCPW president Ar. Celestino Ulep opened the symposium by sharing his optimism on how collaboration and embracing nature-based architecture can pave the way towards creating a future where wetlands thrive and biodiversity flourishes.

Notable experts in the field also graced the event, sharing their insights and experiences including Chris Rostron, the global manager of Wetland Link International, and Alex Hughes of Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust in London, UK. The guest speakers kicked off the discussion by sharing about the pivotal role of Wetland Centers as a tool for Communication, Capacity Building, Education, Participation, and Awareness (CEPA) in wetland conservation efforts.

Arch. Ulep, meanwhile, engaged the audience by introducing the concept of nature-based architecture, highlighting the importance of prioritizing sustainability and harmony in design by creating structures that seamlessly integrate with the natural environment.

Meanwhile, Arch. Aaron Lecciones, SCPW Special Projects Officer, made a detailed visual presentation on the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP) Design Team's experience. He highlighted the challenges and triumphs of designing a wetland park, serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and architects.

Esteemed partners, including Ms. Rida Reyes Castillo of SM Prime, Dr. Arvin Diesmos of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Mr. Laudemir Salac of DENR-Region 3, and Arch. Gleo Raymundo of UAPSA graced the event to show their full support for this endeavor.

"It is an honor and privilege on the part of SM to partner with the SCPW and UAPSA in realizing its common goal of protecting ecosystems, particularly wetlands, by inspiring the youth to engage and take action on the socio-civic and economic issues in their communities by finding workable solutions towards building a sustainable future," SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo said.

SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo

Castillo further emphasized that environmental protection and nature conservation are integral pillars of SM Prime's sustainability campaign and that they believe in the power of cultivating the younger generation’s devotion to building a sustainable future.

The symposium concluded with a comprehensive discussion on the rules and guidelines of the design competition, followed by an open forum and exchange of ideas among participants.

The symposium also marked the beginning of the highly anticipated 4th SCPW Wetland Center Design Competition, which aims to create a platform for talented students in the field of construction and design to showcase their skills and ingenuity and encourages them to address environmental challenges through sustainable solutions.

DENR, SM Prime Calls on Cities to Innovate and Invest in Water-Saving Technologies to Avert Water Crisis

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading real estate developers in Southeast Asia, recently called on local public officials to avoid the extraction of groundwater and, instead, invest in rainwater collection for recycling and impoundment, as well as explore new technologies such as modular desalination and modular sewage treatment plants, to manage the effects of climate change on the country’s water resources.

At the multi-stakeholder forum, “Towards a Greener Footprint”, in Iloilo City recently, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga shared solutions-focused guidelines to help the local government reduce carbon footprint, with emphasis on water conservation to address the looming water crisis and increase access to safe water and sanitation.

“We need to invest in the appropriate engineering and infrastructure to deliver water from the source,” Secretary Loyzaga said. “We must avoid, if not reduce drastically, the extraction of groundwater which in low-lying coastal areas causes subsidence and increases flooding.”

“Rainwater catchments will not only provide additional supply for household use but will also help ensure the availability of surface water through the maintenance of watershed cover when impounded,” Secretary Loyzaga said.

Based on the latest report of the Philippine Statistics Authority, water abstracted for own use increased from 215.2 billion cubic meters (bcm) in 2020 to 217.8 bcm in 2021 countrywide. From 2010 to 2021, the largest amount of self-abstracted water is for the power sector (58.7%). This was followed by agriculture (33.5%); mining and quarrying, manufacturing, and construction (5.3%); and services sector and households (2.6%).

Earlier this month, the DENR said the country still has enough water supply, but proper management is needed to prevent a possible water crisis by the end of the year.

The call was met with a resounding response from the private sector, particularly, SM Prime. In the same forum, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza B. Silerio shared how SM Prime has stepped up the sustainability programs that it has been doing since SM Supermalls started recycling water in the 1990s.

From rainwater catchment to help deter flooding in communities where its malls are located, SM Prime also pioneered the mall-based rainwater filtration system that converts the collected rainwater to be potable enough for washing, cleaning and even drinking. Launched at SM City Baguio, the facility will supply mall tenants with enough potable water to help reduce sourcing from the communities’ water table.

“As an integrated property developer, we have seen the first-hand effects of natural hazards that are caused by the change in weather patterns in the Philippines,” Engr. Silerio explained. “El Nino and La Nina are two phenomena resulting from climate change. Our country ranks number one in the World Risk Index 2022 report as the most vulnerable among 193 nations.”

Faced with this challenge, Engr. Silerio shared that SM Prime will continue to find innovative ways to address the climate challenges. “We continue to evolve and adapt technology to improve our resource consumption as part of our climate action,” she concluded.

Local Farmers in Calabarzon to Receive Training on Modern Farming Techniques

SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) has taken another step in its mission to enhance the agriculture and entrepreneurial skills of farmers. The organization recently launched the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP) across various locations in Calabarzon. 

Beginning with its launch in Padre Garcia, Batangas on April 13, 2023, the program has since been extended to Silang, Cavite, Batangas City, San Pablo, Laguna, and Calamba City. SMFI is also set to provide free agri-skills training to local farmers in other parts of the region to help other beneficiaries uplift their families and communities.

Empowering local farmers 

 
The local farmer-beneficiaries will undergo a two-phased program, spearheaded by its partner school Moca Family Farm RLearning Center, Inc.  

 
The said program kicked off with an immersive 14-week training program, designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in agriculture. The modular training curriculum covers topics on the latest agri-technology updates, capacity building, financial literacy, product development, and market opportunities. Through these comprehensive modules, KSK-SAP aims to empower and enhance farmers’ agricultural practices and explore avenues for sustainable growth. 

As a highlight of the program's first phase, KSK-SAP farmers will join the SM Sunday Market, a collaborative initiative between SM Foundation and SM Supermalls. This platform offers trainees a valuable opportunity to showcase their agricultural produce and gain firsthand experience in institutional selling. Through this market opportunity, participants can not only generate income but also cultivate their expertise and experience in the sales and marketing aspects of their agri-businesses.

KSK Trainees at Tabangao Ambulong, Batangas City, Batangas

To prepare for the second phase of the program, SMFI will also assist the farmers in formalizing their respective groups. To boost their earning capactiy and contribution to economic growth, the foundation will support them in creating a sustainable and profitable farming community through the assistance of its partner agencies. 

KSK-SAP originated from the vision of SMFI’s founder Henry "Tatang" Sy Sr. to establish a sustainable initiative that would uplift the farming skills, food security, and livelihood know-how of low-income Filipino farmers. Over the years, the program has evolved into a comprehensive training program that generates opportunities for skills development, employment, and livelihood.

Since its inception in 2007, KSK-SAP has helped more than 28,000 marginalized farmers from rural and urban areas across the country, fueling their entrepreneurial and farming capabilities. As a result, some of the program's graduates have turned into seasonal suppliers for the SM group and other local markets.

SM Foundation’s KSK-SAP is conducted in partnership with SM Supermalls, TESDA, DA, DSWD, DOST, DTI, DOT and partner farm schools.