SM Prime’s Flood Mitigation Strategy: Building Resilient Infrastructure for Safer Communities

SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime), a leader in sustainability in the Philippines, continues to prioritize environmental responsibility and resilient infrastructure.

With initiatives ranging from water recycling and energy management to renewable energy and waste reduction, SM Prime has long been committed to sustainability. This commitment was highlighted during its participation in the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, where Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee, discussed the importance of resilience and multi-sectoral collaboration for sustainable development.

Given the Philippines’ vulnerability to natural hazards such as tropical cyclones and typhoons, disaster risk management (DRM) and resilient infrastructure are critical. SM Prime employs hydrological surveys in its development projects to assess flood risks and incorporate flood mitigation strategies.

SM City Marikina: A Model for Flood Resilience

SM City Marikina, situated near the flood-prone Marikina River, is a prime example of SM Prime’s flood resilience. Elevated on 246 concrete stilts, the mall allows floodwaters to flow beneath, keeping the structure and its occupants safe during heavy rains. During Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) in 2009, when surrounding areas were devastated, SM City Marikina remained intact and provided refuge for those affected. Similarly, SM City Cabanatuan uses its lower ground parking area as a temporary flood catchment basin, contributing to flood mitigation efforts.

Rainwater Catchment Systems: Reducing Flooding in Surrounding Communities

Another key innovation in SM Prime’s flood mitigation strategy is the installation of rainwater catchment basins in its malls. These massive underground tanks collect rainwater from surrounding areas, preventing flooding in local communities. With 29 SM Supermalls across the Philippines equipped with these basins, the total storage capacity is an impressive 85,400 cubic meters – equivalent to over 34 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

SM City Masinag: A Key Example of Flood Mitigation Success

SM City Masinag, located in a historically flood-prone area of Antipolo, is equipped with a state-of-the-art rainwater catchment basin. This basin played a vital role during Super Typhoon Carina (Gaemi) in July 2024, managing over 8,600 cubic meters of rainwater, which helped mitigate flooding in the surrounding areas. Thanks to its innovative design, SM City Masinag serves as a crucial water catchment for runoff from upper Antipolo. In total, SM malls prevented an estimated 46,405 cubic meters of rainwater from flooding nearby areas in 2024.

Residents of Vermont Park Executive Village in Antipolo, including former officer Mr. Gareth Aboy, have expressed their gratitude for SM City Masinag’s support during flood events. “Thank you for keeping your doors open and for your rainwater catchment basin that helps drain water from our village,” said Mr. Aboy.

Commitment to Resilience and Sustainability

SM Prime’s dedication to building resilient infrastructure is evident in its investments in flood mitigation measures. By prioritizing safety, environmental sustainability, and business continuity, SM Prime is helping build safer communities while protecting the environment. As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, SM Prime will continue to innovate and lead the way in disaster risk management and resilient infrastructure development for a safer, more sustainable future.