SM’s Hans ‘Chico’ Sy Jr. inspires Iloilo students at eco-forum

MANILA, Philippines — The Iloilo City Government and SM City Iloilo successfully hosted the annual eco-forum, “People, Parks, Pavements and Palate,” recently at the mall’s Cinema 3.

Over 250 stakeholders, including environmental planners, government officials and students, gathered to discuss sustainable practices aligned with the city’s vision of becoming a top-tier urban center.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas opened the forum, followed by discussions on sustainable tourism led by Negros Occidental Heritage Council chairman Neil Solomon Locsin, sustainable transport, green sidewalks and active mobility presented by National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) supervising economic development specialist Roxanne Yap, and sustainable solutions and circular economy in the food industry by Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo hotel manager Gian Carlo Luna.

SM Supermalls VP for corporate compliance group and head of sustainability and resilience Engr. Liza Silerio showcased SM’s commitment to environment, social and governance (ESG) principles, with a particular focus on resiliency.

SM invests at least 10% of its capital in developing infrastructure that is both environmentally friendly and resilient to natural calamities.

“Imagine cities built to optimize resource allocation, reduce traffic congestion and improve disaster preparedness. Imagine communities designed with green infrastructure that promotes walkability, reduces the urban heat island effect and enhances biodiversity,” said Silerio.

“This is the future we can build if we fully embrace the idea of sustainable infrastructure and development.”

The highlight of the forum was SM Engineering and Design Development president Hans “Chico” Sy Jr., who took part in a fireside chat, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in achieving sustainability goals.

Reflecting SM’s core values and principles that guide everything they do, Sy amplified the importance of treating others with respect, echoing the golden rule.

He shared, “One of the things we really believe in is: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Sustainability at SM was never a fad or a trend. It was