Discover the investment innovators who are future-proofing the economy in the Philippines.
As the climate continues to shift and the effects of climate change become increasingly harmful, few countries experience the full impact of global warming quite like the Philippines. More open and vulnerable to extreme weather like typhoons than the rest of the world, the Philippines sits on the front line against the elements, and as such must invest heavily in businesses that offer solutions to the growing climate crisis.
With a history spanning over half a century, SM Investments has adopted sustainability as a core value when making investment decisions, primarily in banking, retail and property. As pioneers for environmental solutions, the company invested in disaster resilient engineering before regulations required it. With the Philippines being the third most vulnerable country in the world when it comes to the effects of climate change, SM Investments takes its national responsibilities very seriously.
“We take into account the entire impact on the environment, including providing sustainable energy, renewable solar power, water treatment facilities and waste recycling,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and CEO of SM Investments Corporation. “At the end of the day, it’s the sustainability of the community that continues to provide the growth for our business.”
Building national infrastructure, SM Investments ensures that community retail spaces such as shopping malls are large enough to accommodate those in need during a climate crisis, doubling up as relief support. The team also invests in spaces for education, training and healthcare to keep a robust and sustainable community across the country. Rebuilding and protecting its natural heritage, SM Investments has also worked closely with WWF to help with reforestation efforts in the country.
“There is this climate change that’s looming over our mother earth,” said Hans T. Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. and Co-Chairman of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) ARISE Philippines Network. “If we can contribute, no matter how little, and if I can get everybody to be aware of it. I think we will make an impact, it’s never too late.”
By investing from the ground floor and helping to grow businesses sustainably, not only does it encourage a more positive environmental attitude in the biggest and most influential businesses across the country, but it also ensures long-term growth. By investing now in companies that are future-proofed against unpredictable climate emergencies and made with a renewable, green future in mind, SM Investments is able to guarantee businesses will remain profitable and sustainable well into the future.
By creating sustainable businesses, SM Investments is supporting the wider community of the Philippines, and as the country’s economic power continues to grow, so too will SM Investments’ place at the forefront of industry.
