San Fernando, La Union, Philippines — With climate change driving heavier rains and more frequent floods, proactive flood prevention has become a key part of building resilient communities.
Today, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) has expanded its network of climate-resilient infrastructure across the country with SM City La Union, its 30th mall with a rainwater harvesting facility. Large amounts of stormwater are collected and stored in catchment facilities for SM Supermalls, avoiding runoff that may otherwise overwhelm drainage networks.
During heavy rainfall, the catchment temporarily holds stormwater, allowing gradual discharge through proper channels. Collectively, SM City La Union’s underground rainwater catchment system can provide a total capacity of 760 cubic meters
(Photo caption) The newly opened SM City La Union becomes the 30th SM mall to install a rainwater catchment system, supporting thousands of residents in flood-prone areas and demonstrating how business innovation protects communities.
(Photo caption) A design for tomorrow. SM Supermalls focuses on sustainable water use by managing available resources to meet the needs of future generations.
Each drop contributes to a safer, more sustainable future for all. Mapping every opportunity to achieve Water for Tomorrow, treating and reusing water as a supplemental water source also significantly decreases freshwater consumption
In 2024, SM Prime achieved a 26.23% increase in recycled water volume, rising from 4.42 million cubic meters in 2023 to 5.59 million cubic meters.
Social resilience is equally important as the physical infrastructure. SM Cares raises awareness on water conservation and adopting sustainable practices in daily life, helping to empower community action and strengthening proper daily usage of water.
“Our rainwater catchment systems go beyond flood control — they help create safer spaces for our communities. We hope to show how climate-smart infrastructure and innovation can protect lives, livelihoods, and progress,” said SM Supermalls President Steven 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 future generations to come.
