Tuesday, December 9, 2025

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.

One of the world’s largest shopping malls, the SM Mall of Asia remains a sustainable marvel thanks to its water-saving solutions.


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. 

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Managing water through innovation. SM City Laoag achieves everyday water responsible practices by recycling non-potable water for landscaping and garden irrigation, cleaning, air conditioning systems, and toilet-flushing. 


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. 

SM Supermalls was ahead of the Clean Water Act in 2004. SM City North Edsa lessens its dependence on freshwater sources for non-potable uses, optimizing resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The mall’s Sky Garden’s 400-meter green roof development is a green space in the dense urban jungle. 


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. 


Water efficiency is nationwide for SM Supermalls. SM Seaside Cebu, the fourth-largest mall in the Philippines, uses recycled water for toilets, cleaning, and landscaping needs.


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.


About SM Green Movement:


SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, committed to creating sustainable, innovative, and inclusive spaces for Filipinos. Guided by its vision of building a better future, SM Prime develops malls, residences, offices, hotels, and leisure properties that support the growth of communities across the Philippines.

Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come.

Sunday, November 30, 2025

PLDT Enterprise’s Tech Week PH Wins at the 2025 International Business Awards Award-winning roadshow champions tech accessibility for businesses nationwide


PLDT Enterprise, the corporate arm of PLDT, has been recognized at the prestigious 2025 International Business Awards (IBA) for its successful launch of Tech Week PH, the telco group’s first multi-city technology roadshow designed to advance digital inclusion, ecosystem collaboration, and technology adoption in high-growth regions across the Philippines.

The Stevie® Awards, organizers of the IBAs, are the world’s premier business awards, honoring the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and professionals worldwide since 2002. The International Business Awards® are open to all organizations across the globe and celebrate accomplishments in all aspects of work life.

Tech Week PH 2025, which won Bronze in the Art, Entertainment & Public – Roadshow category, brought together startups, developers, government stakeholders, enterprise leaders, and other regional ecosystem players in an education and business platform that connected them with global technology partners. Each stop was tailored to local contexts and sector-specific needs to make enterprise technology more relatable, actionable, and inclusive.

The roadshow was held in Davao and Cebu featuring panel forums, technical workshops, and solution showcases on cloud, AI, cybersecurity, and infrastructure. The event welcomed over 1,500 attendees from more than 500 companies across diverse industries nationwide, all eager to explore emerging trends in the regions and technologies to power their growth.

Mitch Locsin, First Vice President and Head of Enterprise Core Business at PLDT and Smart, emphasized that the recognition reflects the company’s mission to put customers at the center of everything it does.

“We wanted Tech Week PH to be a lasting, impactful experience for all participants—it really is a show of our commitment to our customers. By bringing relevant technologies and solutions directly to where our partners and clients operate, we ensure that no one is left behind in the country’s fast-paced digital transformation. This award is the fruit of our dedication to enabling businesses to grow, innovate, and thrive, wherever they are in the Philippines.”

Tech Week builds on the success of PLDT Enterprise’s PH Digicon, expanding its reach to key provincial growth centers and ensuring that businesses nationwide can access cutting-edge solutions and insights. The program aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

To learn more about the digital solutions fit for your business, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-intl-business-awards-2025

Sunday, November 16, 2025

Riding Get-Up That Matters When Riding Two Wheels

 Because safety and fashion should go hand in hand

Whether it is seeing the most spectacular places or being seen riding the motorcycle model of your choice, it really comes down to the lifestyle you lead. It does not matter if you’re cruising through the city on a weekend or taking a quick escape from the daily grind to some exotic location, what you wear when you go for a spin on your bike says as much about you as your ride does. And when your two-wheel companion is the Winner X, every trip becomes an expression of style and confidence.

Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), the No.1 motorcycle manufacturer in the country, understands that the modern rider looks for more than just performance. Today’s riders want comfort, safety, and personality on the road, and that starts with both the right outfit and the right ride.

Safety and style start at the top

Every rider knows the helmet is non-negotiable. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) mandates that all motorcycle riders and passengers wear a standard protective helmet that bears either the Philippine Standard (PS) mark or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker.

Beyond compliance, helmets define your riding personality. Whether it’s the sleek modular type for convenience or a full-face helmet for maximum coverage, choose one that offers ventilation, clear visibility, and fits well. After all, your helmet isn’t just gear, it’s your first line of defense and your signature style on the road.

Wear protection with every step

It’s tempting to hop on your motorcycle wearing slippers or sandals, especially during short rides, but the law says otherwise. The LTO strictly requires closed footwear, protecting riders from heat, debris, and road hazards.

Invest in ankle-high riding boots or sturdy sneakers made of leather or reinforced fabric. They’re not only functional but also fashionable, giving your overall riding look that confident edge, perfectly matching the Winner X’s sporty stance.

Function meets fashion on the road

Comfort and protection go hand in hand when you’re on two wheels. Riding gloves help maintain grip and reduce fatigue during long drives, while jackets and pants made of abrasion-resistant materials shield you from both the wind and the unexpected.

While not legally required, these gears are strongly recommended by the LTO and by seasoned riders who know the difference they make. Pick breathable fabrics for daily commutes or leather options for weekend highway runs. Style them your way, because safe can still look sleek.

Stay dry in style

Rain can strike anytime in the Philippines, and no rider wants to be caught off guard. A high-quality waterproof poncho or riding rain suit is essential. Go for ones with reflective strips to enhance visibility during downpours and low-light rides.

Aside from keeping you dry, the right rain gear keeps your movements unrestricted, allowing you to focus on the ride, not the weather.

Choose a ride that matches your style

Your look is only as good as your ride, and the Winner X makes sure both stand out. This underbone motorcycle combines sporty design with powerful performance, making it ideal for riders who live life on the move.

Available in Standard, ABS Premium, and ABS Racing Type variants, the Winner X is powered by a 150cc liquid-cooled DOHC engine that delivers smooth acceleration and efficiency. Its ABS technology ensures reliable braking, while the Smart Key System provides added convenience and security. With its comfortable seat, ample storage, and aerodynamic design, every ride feels seamless whether it’s a city cruise or a long drive across scenic routes. These are the advance features that will truly transform your riding experience and will elevate your style.

Winner X is designed for riders who see every journey as an opportunity to express their individuality responsibly, and in style. It’s a motorcycle built for confidence, comfort, and character.

Ride smart, ride stylish, ride like a champion

Being a responsible rider doesn’t mean compromising your style. With the right gear and the right motorcycle, you can conquer every road looking sharp and staying safe.

With the Winner X, you don’t just move, you ride like a champion.

For more information, visit www.hondaph.com. Stay updated on Honda’s newest products and promos by following Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook at facebook.com/hondaph, Instagram at instagram.com/hondaph_mc/, YouTube at Honda Philippines_Motorcycle, and TikTok at tiktok.com/@hondaphilippines. For inquiries, contact (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and 0917-884-6632.

Monday, September 8, 2025

SM Prime reinforces the SM Green Movement: Simple Acts, shared & lasting impact for a greener tomorrow

With a 3.785-Megawatt peak (MWp) solar power capacity, the SM City Fairview solar photovoltaic (PV) system has 6,882 solar modules over a total area of 4.3 hectares, currently making it the largest rooftop solar PV system on a commercial building in the country

As environmental challenges continue to grow, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. believes that the journey to a better future is built on the mindful choices we make each day and the stronger communities we form when we act together.

This is the heart of the SM Green Movement, SM Prime’s sustainability initiative and call to action for communities across the country. Born during the height of the pandemic, the Green Movement began with personal stories—employees choosing to reduce waste, conserve water, and use energy responsibly, even while under lockdown. These simple acts planted the seeds for something bigger: a movement that brings together the company, communities, and the country in pursuit of shared prosperity and a more climate-resilient future.

At SM City Baguio, water is given a second life. Its water treatment facility helps conserve this vital resource while supporting a greener, more resilient future.

Focusing on waste, water, and energy, the SM Green Movement translates ambitious sustainability goals into everyday practices.

It inspires suppliers, partner-tenants, residents, guests, and mallgoers alike to play their part in shaping greener, more livable cities. Each initiative is anchored on SM Prime’s mission: to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, advance water stewardship, and work towards a waste-free future.

"The SM Green Movement is our way of showing care—care for our planet, and care for the people who live in it," said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin. “We’re not just building malls, homes, or offices—we’re building opportunities for everyone to be part of the solution. And the best part is, it starts with what we do every day.”

At the Mall of Asia Complex, water trucks carrying 100% recycled water help keep the property’s greenery thriving while promoting responsible water use.

Collaboration That Drives Real Change

At the core of the Green Movement is a belief in the power of partnership. Lasting change is not a solo endeavor—it thrives through collaboration.

SM Prime continues to work hand-in-hand with local government units, NGOs, schools, community groups, and individuals to co-create solutions that meet both environmental needs and everyday realities.

"Our strength as a company comes from our ability to mobilize people around a common cause,” said San Agustin. “The SM Green Movement is all about collective impact. Every bottle recycled, every drop of water saved, every watt conserved adds up.”

Bin it right! SM Cares promotes proper waste segregation with clearly marked bins for recyclables, disposables, and compostables—helping communities take part in building a waste-free 

A Movement for Generations to Come

Today, the SM Green Movement is a growing platform for advocacy and action. With every new story, every new supporter, and every green step taken, SM Prime is helping to reframe sustainability as something within reach of every Filipino.

About the SM Green Movement:

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, committed to creating sustainable, innovative, and inclusive spaces for Filipinos. Guided by its vision of building a better future, SM Prime develops malls, residences, offices, hotels, and leisure properties that support the growth of communities across the Philippines.

Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come. 

Saturday, August 2, 2025

Omega Healthcare Expands Collaboration with Microsoft to Accelerate Generative and Agentic AI Capabilities, Leading RCM Innovation

 


The AI solutions incorporate Microsoft Azure’s intelligent automation engines that are seamlessly integrated across the ODP, supporting the full revenue cycle: patient access, mid-cycle operations, and back-end processes 

BOCA RATON, Fla., July 24, 2025 – Omega Healthcare, a leading provider of technology-enabled RCM services, announced  an expanded collaboration with Microsoft to further enhance its advanced AI capabilities across the revenue cycle. 
Through the integration of Microsoft Azure cutting-edge AI models through Azure AI Foundry, and the company’s proprietary Omega Digital Platform (ODP), Omega Healthcare launched more than 20 generative and agentic AI solutions to help healthcare organizations enhance revenue cycle operations and improve financial performance.
Since establishing the relationship with Microsoft in 2023, Omega Healthcare has rapidly deployed these solutions leveraging intelligent automation within its ODP framework helping healthcare organizations automate complex workflows, such as correspondence processing, appeal filing, denial management, and call center support—while increasing accuracy, compliance, and profitability for its customers.
“By combining the strength of our RCM and healthcare expertise with Microsoft’s advanced large language models, we are unlocking new efficiencies, previously considered by the market as too complex to automate,” said Anurag Mehta, CEO and Co-Founder, Omega Healthcare. “We are bringing scalable, tech-enabled services without requiring healthcare leaders to take on large, risky technology investments, freeing them up to focus on what matters most – delivering exceptional patient care.”
“Omega Healthcare is one of the most innovative partners we’ve worked with in applying Microsoft Azure AI Foundry capabilities – including Azure OpenAI in Foundry Models – to revenue cycle management and other real-world healthcare challenges,” said Elena Bonfiglioli, General Manager, Worldwide Healthcare at Microsoft. “Their ability to translate AI innovation into practical, high-impact solutions across the entire revenue cycle and beyond, has positioned them as a clear leader in tech-enabled RCM transformation.”
The AI solutions incorporate Microsoft Azure’s intelligent automation engines that are seamlessly integrated across the ODP, supporting the full revenue cycle: patient access, mid-cycle operations, and back-end processes. These modules combine advanced AI models in Azure AI Foundry with Omega Healthcare’s deep domain expertise to automate routine processes, such as medical coding and integrate with ODP’s AI/ML models to support key services for customers, 
such as clinical documentation improvement (CDI), denials management and prevention. For example, ODP can automate routine tasks across the revenue cycle, including standard denial processes, evidence retrieval, and appeal submission. Key outcomes include up to 75% reductions in AR follow-up days, faster resolution times, and improved compliance.
Omega Healthcare has also launched additional solutions for payers unleashing new potential for retrospective HCC coding automation and has deployed solutions for areas like data curation for life sciences.

“The possibilities are endless as we continue building new AI-powered capabilities across the healthcare ecosystem in collaboration with Microsoft and our customers,” added Mehta.
Highlighting the additional promise for the future of AI innovation in healthcare, a recent Everest Group survey, concluded an overwhelming majority (85%) of senior healthcare executives surveyed believe AI will improve efficiencies in RCM operations over the next five years.
“We are thrilled to be a pioneer in driving RCM transformation,” emphasized Mehta. “Our customers are already experiencing the benefits of generative and agentic AI and are excited about future developments as we work together and continue to innovate.”
About Omega Healthcare
Founded in 2003, Omega Healthcare Management Services® (Omega Healthcare) empowers healthcare to thrive via intelligent solutions that optimize revenue cycle operations, administrative workflows, care coordination, and clinical research on a global scale. 
The company works with providers, payers, life science companies, medical device manufacturers, health technology firms, researchers, and industry partners to amplify teams with robust technology, specialty expertise, and operational support. 
Omega Healthcare serves 350+ healthcare organizations with 35,000 skilled workers in the United States, India, Colombia, and the Philippines. For more information, visit www.omegahms.com.

Saturday, May 24, 2025

DJI Launches Agriculture Drones in the Philippines to Enhance Precision Farming Practices

Manila, Philippines –DJI Agriculture is a specialized division of DJI, the global leader in drone technology. Established in 2015, DJI Agriculture focuses on developing advanced drone solutions tailored for the agricultural sector, aiming to enhance farming efficiency, sustainability, and productivity.


Innovative Drone Solutions

DJI Agriculture provides a diverse lineup of unmanned aerial systems, including the advanced Agras series, tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern farming. These drones are designed to perform key agricultural functions such as crop spraying, seeding, and aerial mapping with high precision and efficiency. 

Integrating technologies like intelligent flight planning, multispectral imaging, and automated obstacle sensing, DJI’s solutions help streamline field operations, minimize manual labor, and ensure accurate input distribution. By leveraging these innovations, farmers can achieve higher yields, reduce costs, and adopt more sustainable and data-driven agricultural practices.

Global Impact

By the end of 2024, approximately 400,000 DJI Agriculture drones were in operation worldwide, marking a 90% increase since 2020. This widespread adoption has contributed to significant resource savings, including approximately 222 million tons of water and a reduction of 30.87 tons of carbon emissions.

Commitment to Sustainability

DJI Agriculture is deeply committed to advancing sustainable farming practices by leveraging the power of precision agriculture and smart farming technologies. Through the integration of intelligent drone systems, data-driven analysis, and automated field management, the division empowers farmers to make informed decisions that lead to optimized resource use, reduced environmental impact, and increased productivity. 

By enabling targeted applications of water, fertilizers, and pesticides, DJI's solutions help minimize waste and prevent overuse of agricultural inputs, contributing to soil health and long-term ecological balance. Ultimately, DJI Agriculture aims to support the global effort to ensure food security while promoting environmentally responsible and economically viable farming methods.


The DJI Agras T50

The Agras T50 is a flagship of efficiency and stability, born from a deep understanding of the demands of large-scale farming. It inherits a coaxial dual-rotor design and 54-inch propellers for next-level stability when carrying 40 kg spraying or 50kg spreading payloads, which enables efficient spraying of up to 50 acres (21 hectares) per hour1. 

T50's dual atomization spraying system, with an increased flow rate of up to 16 liters per minute with two sprinklers and adjustable-sized spray droplets, is ideal for a variety of applications from fields to orchards. Easily converted to its spreading configuration, the T50 can carry 50 kg of dry granules and spread at a flow rate of up to 108 kg/min2 or 1.5 tonnes per hour2. This combination of power, precision, and versatility sets T50 apart as a top choice in agricultural drones, designed to meet the evolving needs of modern farming.

- The T50 features an upgraded four-antenna O3 Transmission system, extending the remote controller-drone connection up to 2 km3. For operations over mountains and other complex environments, users can deploy a DJI Relay to extend transmission range and stability for improved operation safety.

- The T50 features dual Active Phased Array Radars and binocular vision sensors. These work together to accurately reconstruct the T50's surroundings and detect nearby obstacles, for intelligent obstacle sensing and bypassing, and Terrain Following over slopes.

- Equipped with an additional pair of centrifugal sprinklers, increasing flow rate to 24 liters per minute. This benefits tasks like orchard spraying that require a higher flow rate to penetrate dense canopies and treat the fronts and backs of leaves

- Powered by a DB1560 Intelligent Flight Battery, with a capacity of up to 30 Ah and 1500 charge cycles4. The D12000iEP Multifunctional Inverter Generator paired with the Air-Cooled Heat Sink enables 9-minutes fast charging, allowing for continuous operations with a pair of batteries.

The DJI Agras T25

The Agras T25 packs all the advanced features of the T50 into a smaller, portable design. It can carry a 20kg spraying or 25kg spreading payload and includes the T50's top features like multidirectional obstacle avoidance, Terrain Following, ultra-fast battery charging, one-tap takeoffs, and automatic operations. This makes it perfect for solo use in small to medium-sized farms.


DJI Agriculture Philippines Opens Doors for New Authorized Distributors

DJI Agriculture Philippines is actively seeking dynamic and growth-oriented distributor partners to join its expanding network and bring the latest in agricultural drone technology, the DJI Agras T50 and T25, to farms and agribusinesses across the country. This is a prime opportunity to partner with a global leader in drone innovation and help revolutionize Philippine agriculture through advanced, efficient, and sustainable farming solutions.

DJI’s distributor program presents an exciting opportunity for businesses and entrepreneurs operating in the agricultural technology sector. This program is ideal for forward-thinking companies looking to expand their product offerings, tap into new markets, and play a key role in transforming the future of farming through innovation and smart technology.

Approved partners will gain access to:

- Exclusive distribution rights in designated regions

- Comprehensive product and sales training

- Technical support and marketing resources

- Access to DJI’s growing agricultural customer base

Interested parties are invited to contact DJI Agriculture Philippines through apruebo.miguelcarlo@techdynamics.com.ph or +63 956 016 4792, or visit facebook.com/DJIAgriculturePH for more information about partnership opportunities.


Friday, May 9, 2025

How SM Prime’s environmental leadership and innovation are continuously powering a more sustainable future for all

For SM Prime, sustainability is not merely a statement, but a strategic imperative that is deeply embedded in the way the company operates. This is demonstrated in concrete outcomes that reflect the organization’s innovation and leadership when it comes to its environmental efforts, continuously delivering measurable progress in advancing sustainability across its developments.

Anchored in its Net Zero 2040 goals, SM continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental sustainability through the scaled deployment of renewable energy solutions in its properties, integrating solar energy to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and reduce reliance on grid-supplied fossil fuels, while aligning its operations with global climate goals.

As of early 2025, a total of 47 SM Supermalls nationwide are now outfitted with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, generating a combined peak capacity of 63 Megawatts. These systems comprise 118,313 solar panels installed across mall rooftops, contributing to a measurable reduction in carbon emissions and representing a significant benchmark in the advancement of renewable energy adoption within the Philippine commercial real estate sector.

With the MOA Sky walkway, SM Mall of Asia harnesses solar energy to deliver a combined 3MW of power —enough to run 1,000 escalators a day or power 1,800 homes for a month.

SM Mall of Asia's MOA Sky showcases a multi-use rooftop with a solar-covered walkway, contributing to their significant renewable energy capacity.

SM Mall of Asia (MOA), one of the company’s flagship developments, exemplifies this commitment through its multi-use rooftop, MOA Sky. Among its features is a solar-covered walkway integrating 555 PV panels, contributing an additional 0.3-Megawatt peak capacity while offering shade to pedestrians. With a total of 11,355 panels now installed, SM MOA’s cumulative solar PV system delivers 3 Megawatts of peak power---enough to operate approximately 1,000 escalators for a day or provide electricity to 1,800 average households for a month.

SM’s renewable energy projects were prominently featured during the 2025 Energy Efficiency Day conference, where SM Engineering, Design, and Development Corporation Vice President Engr. Teodoro Bautista presented the group’s performance and ongoing efforts in operational energy efficiency. The initiative was also a key factor in SM MOA’s recognition as the recipient of the first Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution, organized by the Department of Energy, affirming the commercial viability and environmental value of large-scale solar adoption.

 

Solar-powered parasols at SM City Bicutan’s Sky Garden provide 4–5 hours of nighttime lighting after just 3 hours of daytime charging.

Integrating sustainability, SM City Bicutan offers solar-powered parasols with nighttime illumination in its Sky Garden.

Meanwhile, another SM mall, SM City Bicutan, recently introduced solar-powered parasols within its Sky Garden. These structures, designed with both function and form in mind, utilize solar energy to provide 4 to 5 hours of nighttime lighting after a 3-hour daytime charge. Beyond their energy efficiency, these installations reinforce the importance of integrating environmental considerations into the customer experience.

“Through these initiatives, we are able to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and create long-term operational savings for our malls, while simultaneously introducing innovative solutions towards a greener and brighter future for everyone,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.

SM Prime’s transition to renewable energy is a key component of its climate action strategy under the Net Zero 2040 roadmap. Through systematic decarbonization across its portfolio, the company continues to play a leading role in supporting national and global climate targets while delivering measurable sustainability outcomes that leave a lasting positive impact on the environment.