SM Prime widens the landscape in renewable energy

As part of its net-zero commitment by 2040, one of Asia’s leading real estate and property developers, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), partnered with global integrated energy company TotalEnergies for the installation of a 2 Megawatt-peak (MWp) Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System Rooftop project in Pasay City.

The partnership venture aligns with SM Prime’s efforts in expanding its renewable energy portfolio and affirms TotalEnergies’ commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions in various urban settings.

Designed with a power yield of 3,000 Megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity annually, the solar partnership project has over 3,672 PV panels installed and is expected to provide huge cost savings for SM Prime. Located at the MOA Square in the Mall of Asia Complex, the solar installations are expected to reduce the building’s carbon footprint by about 1,430 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions annually.

"SM Prime is proud to work alongside TotalEnergies on this project. This partnership is our commitment to sustainability and achieving Net Zero by 2040. We are also taking a proactive stance in supporting the Department of Energy’s (DOE) target of reaching 35% renewable energy by 2030. Together, we’re driving meaningful change towards a more environmentally conscious future," said John Nai Peng Ong, SM Prime Chief Finance Officer.

“We are thrilled to announce the successful deployment of solar rooftop installations at the Mall of Asia in the Philippines, marking a significant achievement in both environmental and economic sustainability for SM Prime,” said Elodie Renaud, Managing Director of TotalEnergies Renewables Distributed Generation Asia.

For the past few years, SM Prime continues to grow its partnerships with key clean energy players, leveraging its relationships and earned experiences to drive its environmental stewardship campaign. Capitalizing on these partnerships has provided for SM Prime huge economic, environmental, and social dividends.

In 2022, SM Prime secured a long-term deal with AboitizPower for its clean energy supply. Under the agreement, AboitizPower will provide reliable and responsibly-sourced energy from Tiwi-MakBan Geothermal Power Plants, and PV Sinag’s Power Plants, operated and managed by AboitizPower subsidiary, Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. (ARI).

The following year, SM Prime signed a memorandum of agreement with Citicore Renewable Energy Company (CREC), wherein SM Prime will source 90 megawatts (MWac) from CREC’s upcoming Lumbangan Solar Power Plant in Tuy, Batangas.

Apart from contributing to the DOE’s 35% renewable energy goal by 2030, all these partnerships are aligned with the energy department and Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) policy of expanding the adoption of Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA) in the energy industry.

To date, SM Prime currently sources at least 50% of its electricity utilization from clean, renewable energy.

 
SM Prime supports the Philippine government’s aim to increase the country's renewable energy supply component to 50% by the year 2040. It remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon on integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future.

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Kublai Millan’s "Land of Premise" Unveiled at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery

Acclaimed artist Kublai Millan’s latest exhibit, Land of Premise, was officially inaugurated at The Manila Hotel’s Art Gallery on August 1, 2024. This solo exhibit, featuring a compelling collection of 14 paintings, invites guests to explore the untapped potential of Mindanao and envision a future where its promises are fulfilled.

Kublai Millan

In his remarks, Kublai emphasized that Land of Premise is more than just an artistic showcase; it is a bridge to understanding Mindanao’s rich heritage and future possibilities. “Words cannot build a future, only actions and resources can. Know the premise so we can conceive a fulfillable promise,” he stated.

The opening reception featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Kublai Millan, along with Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing, Jeremy Barns, Director-General of the National Museum of the Philippines, Cecile Guidote Alvarez, founder of Philippine Educational Theater Association, Nancy dela Rosa, wife of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, and Flora Chua, member of the Board of Philippine Cancer Society. The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests including Dr. Jaime Laya, president of Philtrust Bank, Atty. Elba Cruz, CEO and chief curator of Manila Clock Tower Museum, as well as representatives from the office of the Vice Mayor, City of Manila, and the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila. Guests enjoyed an afternoon of cocktails and conversation amid the vibrant display of Kublai’s artistry.

Land of Premise is on display at the Art Gallery through August 31, 2024. Admission is free, and the artworks are available for purchase at Php 440,000 each (shipping not included).

For further details or to inquire about purchasing, please call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email r.lo@themanilahotel.com.

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Harold and the Purple Crayon comes to life starring Zachary Levi

Lil Rel Howery, Benjamin Bottani, and Zachary Levi set off on an adventure in Harold and the Purple Crayon

Countless families have enjoyed Crockett Johnson’s Harold and the Purple Crayon since its publication in 1955. The book tells the story of an adventurous toddler who can create entire worlds with his purple crayon. The adaptation puts a twist on the story, as in the movie Harold has grown up in his fantastical world, and decides to draw a door into the real, modern world.

Producer John Davis talks about the adventure that Harold is thrust into in Harold and the Purple Crayon. “Harold and his friends are transformed from characters on the page to adventurers on a journey of self-discovery,” Davis says. “Their story is brimming with passion, imagination, and a sense of heart.” Watch the trailer:
Oscar-nominated director Carlos Saldanha had his children grow up to the tale of Harold and the Purple Crayon. “The original story is very simple and charming,” he says. “I really love the way that this movie takes it further. In the book, Harold is very sheltered, but coming into the real world exposes him to the harsh realities of everyday life. He discovers all these new emotions that allow him to become a more complete and fuller human character, all while retaining his innocence.”

Playing the role of the intrepid Harold is Zachary Levi, who feels that more than an adaptation, Harold and the Purple Crayon is a love letter to imagination itself. “There is no Harold without imagination,” Levi says. “The power of imagination is just as integral to the movie as it is to the book.” Asked what he’d draw if he had Harold’s purple crayon, Levi opted for convenience. “The airplane scene was a lot of fun,” he says. “Maybe I’d draw a plane.”

Zachary Levi lets his imagination literally take flight in Harold and the Purple Crayon

Levi’s co-star Zooey Deschanel also has a personal connection to the book as she also read Harold and the Purple Crayon to her kids. “I’ve been reading the book to my kids since they were really little,” says Deschanel. “It’s a much beloved book in my house, and I think this is the type of movie parents will want to go see with their kids.”

Director Saldanha finds magic in something as mundane as a crayon, and invites audiences to share that magic and rediscover the power of imagination. “Pick up a crayon, and the possibilities are endless,” he says. “With everything happening in our daily lives, we forget the power of the imagination, the power of believing, the power of dreaming, and the power of ‘drawing’ your way into a better place. This film invites audiences to rediscover that magic.”

Grab a friend and set off into a world of adventure as Harold and the Purple Crayon opens in PH cinemas on August 21.

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August 2024 movies

Don’t miss these movies, opening in cinemas in August!

August 7 - It Ends With Us (Columbia Pictures)
Cast: Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, Brandon Sklenar, Jenny Slate
Directed by: Justin Baldoni

“It Ends With Us”, the first Colleen Hoover novel adapted for the big screen, tells the compelling story of Lily Bloom (Blake Lively), a woman who overcomes a traumatic childhood to embark on a new life in Boston and chase a lifelong dream of opening her own business. A chance meeting with charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni) sparks an intense connection, but as the two fall deeply in love, Lily begins to see sides of Ryle that remind her of her parents’ relationship. When Lily’s first love, Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar), suddenly reenters her life, her relationship with Ryle is upended, and Lily realizes she must learn to rely on her own strength to make an impossible choice for her future.

August 21 - Harold and the Purple Crayon (Columbia Pictures)
Cast: Zachary Levi, Jemaine Clement, Alfred Molina, Zooey Deschanel
Directed by: Carlos Saldanha

Inside of his book, adventurous Harold (Zachary Levi) can make anything come to life simply by drawing it. After he grows up and draws himself off the book’s pages and into the physical world, Harold finds he has a lot to learn about real life – and that his trusty purple crayon may set off more hilarious hijinks than he thought possible. When the power of unlimited imagination falls into the wrong hands, it will take all of Harold and his friends’ creativity to save both the real world and his own. “Harold and the Purple Crayon” is the first film adaptation of the beloved children’s classic that has captivated young readers for decades.

August 21 - Blink Twice (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Stars: Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, Adria Arjona, Christian Slater, Geena Davis
Directed by: Zoë Kravitz

When tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) meets cocktail waitress Frida (Naomi Ackie) at his fundraising gala, sparks fly. He invites her to join him and his friends on a dream vacation on his private island. It’s paradise. Wild nights blend into sun soaked days and everyone’s having a great time. No one wants this trip to end, but as strange things start to happen, Frida begins to question her reality. There is something wrong with this place. She’ll have to uncover the truth if she wants to make it out of this party alive.

August 28 - Look Back (Encore Films)
Voice cast: Yumi Kawai, Mizuki Yoshida
Directed by: Kiyotaka Oshiyama

Based on the award-winning manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto, creator of “Chainsaw Man.” “Look Back” is a heart-wrenching and impactful story of growing up, a story about the overly confident Fujino and the shut-in Kyomoto, who couldn’t be more different. Their love of drawing manga is the one thing connecting these contrary girls. One day, however, something happens to them that shatters everything…

*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.*

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SM’s Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) brings relief to Typhoon Carina victims

As Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon unleashed torrential rains and widespread flooding across Metro Manila and nearby provinces, SM opened their doors to thousands of displaced residents. Serving as vital lifelines during this crisis, not only shelter was provided but also essential relief and support through the efforts of SM Supermalls and SM Foundation’s Operation Tulong Express (OPTE).

Free coffee brings a moment of warmth to a typhoon victim at SM City Marilao.

More than 23,000 Kalinga Packs filled with essential supplies were delivered to hard-hit communities across Metro Manila, Bulacan, Bataan, Olongapo City, Pampanga, Rizal, and Cavite. SM Supermalls employees have been instrumental in packing and distributing these relief packs.

To provide immediate assistance to those affected, SM have opened their doors to evacuees, offering temporary shelter, comfort, and basic necessities such as free overnight parking, WiFi, and phone charging stations. Help desks have been set up to assist those in need, while ample supplies of water, food, and essential items have been made available. Beyond providing physical shelter, SM is committed to supporting the emotional well-being of evacuees. By creating a safe and comfortable environment, SM aims to alleviate the hardships faced by those affected by the floods.

Mallgoers find refuge at the Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) Command Post in SM City Masinag amid the heavy flooding

SM City East Ortigas becomes a haven for flood-stricken mallgoers, thanks to the Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) Command Post.

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and the elderly find solace and assistance at the Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) Command Post in SM City Marikina as heavy flooding inundates the area.

SM City Grand Central offers free meals to typhoon-affected mallgoers.

OPTE, a social good initiative of SM Foundation in partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Markets, is designed to quickly deliver essential supplies to communities affected by calamities and crises. With a focus on vulnerable populations, the program ensures critical aid reaches those who need it most.

SM is dedicated to expanding its relief efforts to reach more communities in need as the situation evolves.

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Community Creators Participate in the Annual Philippine Expo in Japan

Community Creators, Inc., owner and developer of Amiya Raya in San Mateo, Rizal, launched its condominium development, Shanti by Amiya Raya, during the annual Philippine Expo held on June 7 to 9, in Ueno Park, Tokyo, Japan.

Courtesy visit to the Phil.Embassy in Tokyo,Japan. In photo First Secretary and Consul Darell Artates, and Chay Garcia, President & CEO of Community Creators,Inc. developer of Amiya Raya in San Mateo Rizal

Shanti by Amiya Raya is Community Creators' 11-story condominium within the master-planned residential development. A mere 15-20 minutes away from the bustling cities of Quezon City and Marikina, Shanti offers an alternative way to condominium living with the advantages of living in or near a city. Due to this excellent convergence between nature and urban living, Shanti presents an incredible opportunity to earn passive income through a vacation rental business. Each Shanti unit offers generous living spaces in elegant finishes and has a wide balcony with expansive views. Each home has split-type aircon units in the living and bedroom areas, a refrigerator, an electric stovetop, a range hood, and Smart Home features. 

Shanti team members of CCI L-R Paulo Borja, Cathy Antonio and Mary Grace dela Fuente

Helping Filipinos in Japan in growing their investment portfolios, Shanti team members Mary Grace dela Fuente and Paolo Borja

The Ueno Park Philippine Expo is an annual cultural event celebrating the country's independence and the friendship and goodwill between Japan and the Philippines. About eighty thousand people enjoyed the three-day gastronomic and vibrant event that featured a medley of food stalls showcasing local Filipino delicacies like halo-halo, balut, and street foods, a dance battle between Japan and the Philippines, the Nippon and Pinoy Karaoke Challenge, and various song and dance performances with some big names in Filipino and Japanese pop alike making an appearance. Jed Madela, a singer, songwriter, TV host, performing artist, and the first Filipino inducted into the Hall of Fame of the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), graced this year's event.

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Korea’s All-Time Favorite Crime Busters Return and Head to PH in The Roundup: Punishment

Opens August 14 exclusive at SM Cinemas

The latest installment of Korea’s most-loved action blockbuster The Roundup: Punishment starring Don Lee finally takes its action in the Philippines.

In the borderless action-comedy, The Roundup: Punishment timely touches on the controversies of online gambling, locally known as POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) as it sees the team of Ma Seok-Do (Don Lee) track down one of Korea’s dangerous criminals Baek Chang-gi (Kim Moo-yul) who now operates an online gambling business in the Philippines.

In the Philippines, ex-special forces mercenary Baek Chang-gi monopolizes Korea’s illegal online gambling business by means of abduction, confinement, assault, and even murder. Meanwhile back in Korea, IT genius CEO Chang Dong-cheol (LEE Dong-hwi) is hatching even bigger plans.

In a recent interview with Variety, Lee shared “I want the action to evolve (from film to film) and the story to keep up with current times. It’s important that the characters evolve further, becoming wiser with each sequel.”

Tracing the murder of a young Korean professional who escaped from Chang-gi’s gambling operations, beast cop Seok-do’s team takes on the streets in the Philippines riding jeepneys and forming alliances with the local police. Along with the team is returning character Jang I-su (Park Ji-hwan) disguised as a local who can also communicate in Filipino as he sets up an illegal online casino business to trap the gambling kingpins suspected in the abduction and murder of missing Korean citizens.

The shooting in the Philippines not only magnified the film’s scale but also perfectly captured the reality of borderless, turfless online crime by switching locations back and forth from Korea to the Philippines. While the location of the main villain Baek Chang-gi’s home turf in the film was in the Philippines, the Emperor Casino (the casino Baek runs) and his hideouts were filmed from the various cities of the Philippines such as Angeles and Tarlac City.

Hailed as Korea’s no. 1 action franchise, The Roundup: Punishment has dominated the Korean box- office for four consecutive weeks with a cumulative total of $75 million (source: Variety) since it opened and is now the fastest Korean film to surpass 11 million moviegoers in just 33 days (source: Times of India).

The Roundup series has become Korea’s most-loved crime and action blockbuster series. The action-packed and comedy-filled film created a syndrome for crime blockbusters, becoming the third most-watched rated-R movie in Korea. In the Philippines, The Roundup: Punishment is rated R16 by the MTRCB.

The Roundup franchise has left an unforgettable mark in Korean cinema and has proven that a Korean film series could be successful - with Don Lee’s portrayal of Detective Ma Seok-do known for his signature one-punch action, unique lines, countless parodies of scenes along with the irreplaceable allies and villains.

Distributed by Black Cap Pictures, “The Roundup: Punishment” opens August 14 exclusively at SM Cinemas.

Follow Black Cap Pictures on FB @BlackCapPictures, IG @blackcappictures, YT @BlackCapPictures and on TikTok @blackcappicturesinc.

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