The Ayala Corp. and the SM Group were at the forefront of ongoing sustainability projects and community-centered initiatives, frequently playing a significant role in disaster response efforts.

Their involvement underscores the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in enhancing resilience against disasters.

For the 2024 leg of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, representatives from the private sector joined government agencies in discussions about disaster preparedness.

During a panel discussion on the third day of the APMCDRR, SM Supermalls vice president Liza Silerio emphasized that all mall structures built by SM comply with the Philippines’ building code.

A member of the audience curiously asked, “Are SM Malls built to withstand a mega quake?”

Silerio highlighted that the mall’s structural designs incorporate a higher level of code standards to ensure the safety and comfort of mall-goers and employees.

“We have come up of resilient designs, especially when there is a hazard in a location. Before you even construct you need to look at that, the historical cycles. That is all considered in designing a mall,” Silerio stated.

By prioritizing safety and compliance with building codes, companies like SM Supermalls contribute to the overall preparedness of communities against potential disasters, reflecting a growing awareness in the private sector about the need for disaster-resilient infrastructure. SM, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and homegrown innovation projects like Project NOAH, helps safeguard lives and minimize damage during emergencies.

The Ayala Corporation echoed the significance of resilient mall structures during their presentation on Disaster Risk Reduction initiatives. Mr. Jaime Z. Urquijo, Chief Sustainability and Risk Officer, emphasized that Ayala malls are engineered to withstand natural disasters, placing safety at the forefront of their construction practices.

Furthermore, Urquijo underscored the critical role of data in enhancing disaster response planning. He pointed out that utilizing data-driven insights allows the Ayala Corporation to innovate and refine its strategies for disaster management. In addition, financial tools made available through BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) empower clients to prepare effectively for potential crises.

Since 2002, Ayala Corporation has implemented an enterprise risk management (ERM) framework that aims to provide reasonable assurance that the company’s assets are protected while assessing and mitigating the risks that the business faces. By adopting this structured approach to risk management, Ayala Corporation ensures that it remains resilient in the face of challenges and uncertainties.

With key players like Ayala Corporation and SM Group highlighting their commitment to sustainability and community-centered initiatives, significantly enhancing disaster response efforts, the collaboration between the private sector and government agencies in strengthening disaster preparedness is crucial. SM Supermalls' adherence to stringent building codes and the implementation of resilient designs were emphasized as essential strategies for ensuring the safety of mall-goers, particularly in earthquake-prone areas. Additionally, Ayala Corporation's focus on data-driven insights and a robust enterprise risk management framework illustrates their proactive approach to managing climate-related risks. With the combined efforts of both sectors, the Philippines is better positioned to address future disasters and protect its communities.