SM and DOST Power Up Sustainability in the Philippines through SUSTEX 2025

 Innovation meets action at the first-ever SM Sustainability Expo, driving real change for a greener future

In a bold step toward creating a more sustainable Philippines, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through SM Supermalls, partnered with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and ARISE Philippines to launch the inaugural SM Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025) at the SMX Convention Center Aura in Taguig City.

Held over two dynamic days, SUSTEX 2025 carried the theme “Innovation for Environmental Stewardship”, drawing together over 50 exhibitors, leaders from government and private sectors, global sustainability advocates, and local innovators, all united in showcasing real-world solutions that promote environmental responsibility and national resilience.

A Meaningful Opening with the Beat of Sustainability

The Expo began with a powerful symbol of harmony and collective action: the Beat of Sustainability. SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy and DOST Secretary Renato Solidum led the ceremonial strike of the Solidrum, a bamboo drum created by the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI). Joined by other SM and DOST leaders, they also performed using the angklung, a traditional bamboo instrument recognized by UNESCO.

This inspiring opening performance captured the heart of the Expo’s message, progress through unity, and innovation rooted in cultural and environmental consciousness.

Thought Leadership with a Purpose

In his welcome remarks, Hans T. Sy underlined SM’s deep commitment to sustainability and the importance of science-business collaboration.

“Public-private partnerships like this prove how science and business can come together to solve the environmental challenges of our time. The private sector has the capacity to support homegrown solutions from our scientists,” said Sy.

Secretary Solidum echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for real, measurable progress.

“It’s time to move beyond talk. We’ve had enough summits and declarations. What we need now is proof, tangible results that communities and businesses can benefit from. That’s the kind of impact we aim for with programs like OneDOST4U and Agham na Ramdam,” he stated.

A Showcase of Filipino Innovation

The Innovation Marketplace was the heart of SUSTEX 2025, with more than 50 booths highlighting technologies and products designed to make sustainability accessible.

Some of the standout exhibits included:

• SM Prime and GUUN’s Waste-Free Future campaign, showcasing Japanese-inspired waste management technologies.
• DOST’s eco-friendly innovations, such as Lalang Pandan furniture, essential oils, and electric vehicle advancements.
• ARISE Philippines’ resilience initiatives, focusing on private sector-led disaster preparedness.
• DENR’s Loop Forward Program, which promotes circular economy strategies for waste reduction.
• Visitors also engaged with booths like FatHopes Energy, which turns used cooking oil into biofuel, and DOST-PNRI, which presented the role of nuclear science in sustainability.

Sparking Conversations That Matter

Throughout the Expo, the Ignite Stage became a platform for fireside chats, expert panels, and deep discussions on the future of sustainability. DOST leaders shared how science-driven solutions are already making a difference in Filipino communities, while private sector leaders offered roadmaps for businesses to embrace measurable, purpose-led change.

More Than an Event, A Movement Begins

Running from August 29 to 30, SUSTEX 2025 wasn’t just about talks and displays—it was about building a movement. Through interactive exhibits, knowledge-sharing, and collaborative opportunities, the Expo inspired real-world action aligned with SM’s broader sustainability commitments, including its Net Zero by 2040 target.

“May this Expo be a hub of practical solutions and proof that business, when guided by purpose, can truly be a force for good,” Sy concluded.

SM at the Forefront of Green Progress

As SM Supermalls celebrates 40 Super Years of Evolving with Every You, it remains one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers, and one of its most sustainable. Across 88 malls in the Philippines, SM continues to integrate green building, energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and environmental responsibility into every project.

With events like SUSTEX 2025, SM not only raises awareness but drives concrete action toward a future where people, planet, and profit thrive together.