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SM Foundation Scholarship Program
The SM College Scholarship program was created by SM patriarch Henry Sy, Sr. with the aim of providing college education to a single child from a disadvantaged home. Upon completion of undergraduate studies and subsequent work, the scholar has the opportunity to send one of their siblings to school, therefore contributing to a more promising future for the family.
To date, the SM Scholarship Program has successfully generated more than 1,900 graduates At now, it provides assistance to 1,500 scholars in its 82 affiliated institutions and universities throughout the entire country
In 2014, SM Foundation officially recognized its 18th cohort of SM Scholar-graduates, resulting in a total of 220 graduates, out of whom 69 were awarded honors SM Foundation admitted 326 new students to its program for the academic year 2014-2015, with 100 of them being survivors from regions affected by Haiyan.
SM Foundation is actively advancing its education advocacy by providing donations and engaging in the renovation of public school buildings in communities that are most in need of such facilities.
In 2014, the School Building Program of SM Foundation contributed a grand total of 11 school buildings and 56 classrooms The majority of its recent donations were made as part of its Haiyan Rehabilitation Program By the conclusion of 2014, it had already contributed 67 school buildings inclusive of 196 classrooms to communities around the country
Since its inception 12 years ago, SM Foundation has formed partnerships with numerous corporations and organizations to enhance the scale of the program The sources of funding include SM Prime Holdings, Deutsche Bank, BDO Foundation, GfK Consulting, Monolith Construction and Development Corporation, and Mr. Stephen CuUnjieng, an individual donor.
The SM Foundation's scholarship programs have made significant achievements in providing educational opportunities to thousands of underprivileged students across the Philippines.
1. Thousands of Graduates
Since its inception in 1993, the SM Foundation Scholarship Program has produced over 8,000 college and technical-vocational graduates These scholars have gone on to contribute to various industries in the country, helping to uplift their communities
2. Nationwide Reach
The scholarship program is offered in various regions across the Philippines, ensuring that even students from remote and underserved areas have access to higher education. This widespread reach has allowed the program to support students from diverse backgrounds.
3. Holistic Support
The scholarship does not only cover tuition fees but also provides allowances for books, school supplies, and transportation This comprehensive support ensures that scholars can focus on their studies without the burden of financial constraints
4. Continuing Education Amid the Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, SM Foundation continued to support its scholars by providing the necessary tools for online learning, such as gadgets and internet allowances, ensuring that their education would not be disrupted
5. Scholarship Expansion
The program has expanded over the years to include technical-vocational education scholarships, responding to the growing demand for skilled workers in various industries.
McKinley, BGC, Taguig
Situated in Metro Manila, SM Aura Premier ranks as the 13th SM Supermall and the 47th SM Prime mall in the Philippines. The name SM Aura is borrowed from the elements gold (represented by the chemical symbol Au) and radium. As per SM Prime, the combination of these elements embodies "opulence and refinement that emanates from within."
SM Aura Premier is a high-end shopping mall and mixed-use development located in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines Opened in May 2013, it is part of the portfolio of SM Prime Holdings, one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia The mall is known for its luxurious design, extensive retail offerings, and innovative environmental features
The idea for SM Aura Premier was conceived as part of SM Prime's strategy to expand its portfolio of malls into the upscale market Unlike other SM malls, which are typically more mass-market, SM Aura was designed to cater to a more affluent demographic, aligning with the upscale vibe of Bonifacio Global City.
Design and Architecture
SM Aura Premier was designed by Arquitectonica, a renowned architectural firm known for its avantgarde style The mall features a sleek, futuristic design with a distinct curvilinear form It incorporates green architecture principles, making it one of the first LEED-certified malls in the Philippines. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a globally recognized certification for green building practices.
According to LEED Consultant Raymond Andrew Sih, SM Aura achieved LEED Gold by meeting and exceeding international standards in indoor air quality, thermal comfort, then energy and water efficiency. He cited the mall's very own waste water treatment plant that recycles water for nonpotable use, the energy efficient LED lighting system, the centralized air conditioning system cooled with recycled water, and double low emissivity insulated glass panels, to name a few. In addition, the entire operation is run optimally with regular measurement and verification.
Sih also pointed out SM Aura Premier’s Sky Park, which covers more than half of the building The roof garden, according to Sih, not only "provides visitors with a great place to dine, relax and enjoy views from up high; it also gives plants plenty of soil, recycled water, and room to grow while protecting the building from the heat of the sun"
Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO of USGBC, underscored the significance of SM Aura Premier's LEED Gold certification "Achieving LEED certification is more than implementing sustainable practices It represents a commitment to making the world a better place and influencing others to do better, " Ramanujam said. "Given the extraordinary importance of climate protection and the central role of the building industry in that effort, SM Aura Premier demonstrates their leadership through their LEED certification of Gold."
Opening and Reception
When SM Aura Premier opened its doors in 2013, it marked a significant milestone for SM Prime as it ventured into the luxury retail segment The mall quickly became a popular destination for both local and international brands, offering a range of high-end shops, fine dining restaurants, and entertainment options
Features
SM Aura Premier is not just a shopping destination but also a cultural and social hub It houses the Samsung Hall, an indoor events venue for concerts and conferences, and the Sky Park, a rooftop garden that provides a tranquil escape amidst the bustling city. The mall's design also features energyefficient systems and sustainable materials, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship.
SM Foundation Job Fair
The SM Job Fair is a collaborative effort of SM Supermalls, multinational corporations, and government organizations aimed at offering job prospects to Filipino citizens nationwide. Typically, these job fairs are conducted in SM malls, therefore ensuring accessibility to a substantial number of individuals seeking employment. The events align with SM's overarching dedication to social responsibility, with a specific emphasis on generating economic prospects and mitigating unemployment.
A longstanding endeavor, the SM Job Fair exemplifies SM's dedication to bolstering the Filipino labor force The initial job fairs were organized by SM Supermalls as a strategic initiative to offer career prospects, especially during prime recruitment periods such as the Christmas vacations Over time, the program has grown to encompass nationwide events conducted concurrently at several SM malls, serving thousands of job seekers from diverse areas
Indeed, SM Job Fairs have transformed into more than mere recruitment events. Frequently, these programs encompass career counseling seminars, instruction in résumé preparation, and even spontaneous interviews. Typically, the fairs are organized in collaboration with municipal government units, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and several private sector associations, therefore guaranteeing a diverse array of employment prospects throughout several sectors.
Achievements of SM Job Fair
1. Massive Employment Opportunities
Over the years, SM Job Fairs have connected thousands of job seekers with potential employers The fairs have played a significant role in reducing unemployment by facilitating direct hiring and providing immediate job placements
2. Nationwide
Reach
The job fairs are held across various SM malls nationwide, making them accessible to a diverse range of job seekers. This broad reach ensures that people from different provinces and regions can participate and find employment opportunities without having to travel far.
3. Collaboration with Government Agencies
SM has consistently partnered with government agencies like DOLE, which adds credibility and ensures that the job fairs comply with labor laws and standards This collaboration also provides job seekers with access to government programs and services related to employment
4. Support for Various Sectors
The job fairs cater to a wide range of industries, including retail, food service, IT, healthcare, and manufacturing. This diversity ensures that job seekers from different backgrounds and skill levels can find opportunities that match their qualifications.
The SM Job Fair is strongly focused on advancing Sustainable Development Goal 8, which aims to foster long-lasting, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, as well as ensure full and productive employment and decent work for everyone. Through the organization of job fairs throughout the Philippines, SM actively contributes to SDG 8 by generating work opportunities for Filipinos, therefore promoting economic development and enhancing quality of life The job fairs serve as a forum for job searchers to establish connections with a diverse group of companies across many sectors, therefore guaranteeing that opportunities are available to persons from all socioeconomic strata In addition, the partnership with government agencies guarantees that the employment opportunities offered adhere to labor regulations, therefore fostering appropriate working circumstances. By implementing these programs, social services (SM) plays a crucial role in mitigating unemployment and underemployment in the nation, therefore contributing to the overarching objective of promoting economic inclusiveness and growth.
SM by the BAY
Mall of Asia, Seaside Boulevard, Pasay
SM by the Bay is a popular leisure and entertainment complex located along the scenic Manila Bay within the Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines. It is known for its open spaces, waterfront views, and a variety of attractions that cater to families, tourists, and locals looking for recreation and relaxation. The area is part of SM Prime Holdings' extensive portfolio, designed to provide a unique outdoor experience within the bustling city.
SM by the Bay was developed as part of the larger SM Mall of Asia complex, which opened in 2006 The concept was to create a mixed-use development that included not just retail spaces but also areas dedicated to entertainment and leisure, capitalizing on the location's proximity to Manila Bay Over the years, SM by the Bay has evolved into a vibrant hub for dining, entertainment, and outdoor activities, becoming a significant landmark in Metro Manila
Features of SM by the Bay
1. Seaside Boulevard
This is a popular promenade where visitors can enjoy the cool breeze from the bay, take a leisurely stroll, or watch the iconic Manila Bay sunset. The boulevard is lined with restaurants, cafes, and food stalls, offering a wide variety of dining options
2. SM Mall of Asia Eye
One of the key attractions is the SM MOA (Mall of Asia) Eye, a 55-meter-high Ferris wheel that provides panoramic views of the city and the bay It is the tallest Ferris wheel in the Philippines, and it has become a symbol of SM by the Bay
3. Amusement Park
The area features a small amusement park with various rides and attractions suitable for families and children. This includes classic carnival rides like the carousel and bumper cars, as well as more thrilling rides for adventurous visitors.
4. Open Spaces and Parks
SM by the Bay is designed with open spaces that encourage outdoor activities There are green areas where visitors can relax, as well as spaces for events, concerts, and festivals, which are regularly held throughout the year
5. Dining and Entertainment
The complex is known for its wide range of dining options, from fast food to fine dining Many of the restaurants have al fresco seating, allowing diners to enjoy the view of the bay There are also bars and entertainment venues that offer live music and performances.
6. Fitness and Wellness Activities
SM by the Bay also promotes an active lifestyle, with spaces allocated for jogging, biking, and group exercise activities like Zumba sessions, often organized by the mall or fitness groups
SM by the Bay’s design and features align with this goal 11 by creating a public space that promotes social inclusion, provides safe recreational areas, and enhances the environmental sustainability of urban spaces
The open spaces and parks at SM by the Bay offer residents and visitors a safe and accessible environment for leisure and fitness activities, encouraging healthy lifestyles in an urban setting The integration of green areas and the promotion of outdoor activities contribute to the creation of a sustainable urban space that enhances the quality of life for people in the city. Moreover, the complex’s emphasis on maintaining a clean and green environment along the Manila Bay area supports the resilience and sustainability of the coastal ecosystem, aligning with the goals of SDG 11 to foster sustainable cities and communities.
SM Cares: Trash to Cash
The recycling project known as the SM Trash to Cash program was introduced by SM Supermalls in the Philippines. This initiative promotes the exchange of recyclable garbage, including paper, plastic, and metal, for monetary compensation among mall-goers and the local community The program's objective is to encourage conscientious waste management practices by offering a user-friendly platform for recycling and trash reduction
The SM Trash to Cash initiative was implemented in 2007 as a component of SM Prime Holdings' wider corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies aimed at promoting environmental sustainability. Initially, the concept was implemented in specific SM malls and subsequently extended to more sites based on its performance and favorable community response Since its inception, SM has regularly organized the Trash to Cash event on the first Friday and Saturday of every month, establishing it as a recurring event for the local communities surrounding their malls.
Features of SM Trash to Cash
1. Recycling for Cash
The program allows individuals to bring in various recyclable materials such as paper, plastic, aluminum, and metals. These materials are then weighed and exchanged for cash, providing a financial incentive for participants to engage in recycling
2. Regular Events
Trash to Cash events are held monthly, ensuring that the program is consistent and accessible This regularity encourages people to make recycling a habitual practice
3. Collaboration with Recycling Partners
SM collaborates with accredited recycling companies to ensure that the collected materials are properly processed and reused, contributing to the circular economy
4. Educational Component
The program also serves an educational purpose by raising awareness about the importance of recycling and proper waste disposal. SM often uses these events to disseminate information about environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
SM Trash to Cash is directly aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 12, which focuses on ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns. The program contributes to this goal by promoting the recycling of waste, reducing the amount of material that ends up in landfills, and encouraging the public to adopt more sustainable practices in their daily lives
By providing an incentive for recycling, SM Trash to Cash helps to reduce the environmental footprint of waste and supports the responsible management of resources, a key aspect of Sustainable Development Goal 12. Additionally, the program’s educational efforts foster a culture of sustainability among participants, encouraging them to rethink their consumption habits and engage in more environmentally friendly practices This ongoing initiative highlights SM’s commitment to integrating sustainability into its business operations and contributing to the global effort to achieve sustainable development.
