SM Prime and DENR Join Forces with High-Tech Trash Boat to Revitalize Manila Bay

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a significant boost to ongoing Manila Bay cleanup efforts, SM Prime Holdings has donated a state-of-the-art catamaran trash boat to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The handover ceremony, which took place on January 31, marks a crucial advancement in the battle against water pollution in one of the Philippines' most important marine ecosystems.

Cutting-Edge Technology for Environmental Conservation

The 30-foot catamaran represents the latest in marine cleanup technology, designed to efficiently collect and transport up to one ton of waste per trip. Equipped with essential navigation and safety equipment as well as specialized cleaning tools, this vessel significantly enhances the DENR's capacity to combat water pollution.

Under the operation of the DENR Metropolitan Environmental Office - South Zone, the catamaran will serve as a vital tool in the ongoing efforts to restore Manila Bay's ecological health. The vessel's design allows for effective removal of floating debris and waste, directly addressing one of the bay's most visible pollution problems.

A Powerful Public-Private Partnership

The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from both organizations, underscoring the importance of this collaboration. DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga received the symbolic key to the catamaran, while other DENR officials including Undersecretary Jonas Leones, NCR Regional Executive Director Michael Drake Matias, and Assistant Secretary and Environmental Management Bureau Director Jacqueline Caancan were present to witness this significant contribution.

Representing SM Prime were SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio and SM Prime Estate Management and Development Senior Assistant Vice President Orliber Paule.

Speaking at the event, Engr. Silerio emphasized the company's dedication to environmental stewardship: "This catamaran represents our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and our belief in the power of collaboration to create a sustainable future for our communities."

Complementing Broader Environmental Initiatives

The donation strengthens the DENR's multifaceted approach to the Manila Bay cleanup, complementing existing initiatives such as the Paranaque Adopt-a-River project. By working together, SM Prime and DENR are demonstrating how public and private sectors can effectively collaborate to address complex environmental challenges.

This partnership is particularly significant given Manila Bay's importance as a natural resource and its ongoing struggle with pollution. The bay, which serves as a crucial marine ecosystem and economic resource for surrounding communities, has long faced challenges from urban waste and industrial pollution.

Setting a Model for Environmental Collaboration

The joint initiative between SM Prime and DENR serves as an exemplary model for how businesses and government agencies can combine resources and expertise to create meaningful environmental impact. By leveraging private sector innovation with public sector reach, this partnership demonstrates an effective approach to tackling pressing ecological concerns.

As the catamaran begins its operations in Manila Bay, it represents not just a new tool in the fight against pollution, but a symbol of how collaborative efforts can lead to sustainable solutions for our most precious natural resources.

Through this partnership, both organizations are steering toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for Manila Bay and establishing a precedent for similar collaborations in environmental conservation across the Philippines.

The Legacy of People Power: Mayor Sebastian Duterte's Call for Vigilance on the 39th Anniversary

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In a poignant statement marking the 39th anniversary of the historic People Power Revolution, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte has called upon Filipinos to remain vigilant against threats to democracy and to honor the legacy of those who fought to restore freedom to the Philippines.

Remembering the Revolution

The People Power Revolution of February 1986 stands as a watershed moment in Philippine history. For four days, from February 22 to 25, millions of Filipinos gathered along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) in Manila to peacefully protest against the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos Sr. This nonviolent uprising led to the fall of the Marcos regime after 21 years in power and the restoration of democratic rule.

In his statement, Mayor Duterte emphasized the significance of this historic event: "Today, we join the entire country in commemorating the 39th anniversary of the People Power Revolution, a historic moment when Filipinos stood together in unity to reclaim democracy."

The Dark Legacy of Martial Law

The mayor's statement directly addressed the painful period of Martial Law declared by Ferdinand Marcos Sr. in 1972, which lasted for nearly a decade but whose effects lingered until his overthrow. During this period, historical records document thousands of human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and enforced disappearances.

"Martial Law, declared by Ferdinand Marcos Sr. in 1972, left a dark legacy, countless lives were lost, freedoms were stripped away, and power was concentrated in the hands of a few," Mayor Duterte stated, acknowledging the suffering experienced during this period of authoritarian rule.

Contemporary Relevance

What makes Mayor Duterte's statement particularly notable is his warning about present dangers to Philippine democracy: "As we remember those who suffered and fought for our liberties, we must remain vigilant, especially now, when the threat of authoritarian rule once again looms over our nation."

This statement comes at a time of political polarization in the Philippines. Political analysts have noted growing concerns about democratic backsliding across Southeast Asia, including in the Philippines, with debates over press freedom, human rights, and the concentration of political power featuring prominently in national discourse.

The Duterte Family and Political Dynamics

Sebastian Duterte's statement carries particular weight given his family's political prominence. As the son of former President Rodrigo Duterte and brother to Vice President Sara Duterte, his perspectives on democracy and authoritarianism reflect the complex political landscape of the Philippines.

The Duterte family has had a complicated relationship with the Marcos family. While former President Rodrigo Duterte allowed the burial of Ferdinand Marcos Sr. at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes' Cemetery) in 2016—a controversial decision that sparked protests—Mayor Sebastian's statement appears to take a firm stance against authoritarian governance.

A Call for Unity and Historical Truth

Mayor Duterte emphasized that the People Power Revolution represents more than just a political transition: "People Power was more than just a revolution, it was a testament to the collective strength of the Filipino people in demanding truth, justice, and accountability."

He also stressed the importance of historical accuracy and protecting democratic institutions: "Let us honor its legacy by ensuring that history is never distorted, our rights are never trampled upon, and our democracy remains intact for future generations."

This call for historical truth comes amid ongoing debates about historical revisionism in the Philippines, particularly regarding the Martial Law period. Educators and historians have expressed concern about attempts to downplay the human rights abuses that occurred during the Marcos regime.

The Way Forward

As the Philippines marks this significant anniversary, Mayor Duterte's closing words serve as both a reminder of past suffering and a call to action for the future: "May the darkest times in our history never happen again."

This sentiment echoes across Philippine society as the nation continues to navigate the challenges of strengthening democratic institutions, promoting human rights, and fostering national unity in a politically divided environment.

The 39th anniversary of the People Power Revolution serves as a moment for reflection on how far the Philippines has come since 1986, and the ongoing work needed to protect and strengthen its democratic foundations for generations to come.

Celebrating Filipino Literature: SM Book Nook Reading Festival Ignites Passion for Storytelling

 

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In a vibrant celebration of Filipino literature and creativity, the SM Book Nook Reading Festival welcomed 500 enthusiastic book lovers to SM Aura on January 31, 2025. The festival transformed the Book Nook into a dynamic hub of literary engagement, bringing together renowned authors, emerging writers, publishers, and readers of all ages for a day filled with inspiration, connection, and shared passion for storytelling.

A Convergence of Literary Giants and Rising Stars

The festival was graced by distinguished literary luminaries including National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario (Rio Alma), whose presence added gravitas to the event. Other notable personalities such as Dean Tony Laviña, Hans Pieter Arao, and Jayson Fajardo engaged with attendees, offering insights into their creative processes and literary journeys.

Beyond established authors, the festival created space for emerging voices in Philippine literature. Independent authors like Therese Villarante-Langit connected with readers, showcasing the vibrant diversity of contemporary Filipino storytelling.

These meaningful interactions between authors and readers highlighted the festival's role in bridging generations and perspectives through literature, creating memorable moments for attendees who seized the opportunity to have their books signed and engage in thoughtful conversations with their literary heroes.

Interactive Storytelling: Fostering Collective Creativity

One of the festival's most innovative features was the "Pass the Plot" board, which invited participants to collaboratively build a story, sentence by sentence. This interactive element transformed storytelling from a solitary endeavor into a community experience, demonstrating how narratives can evolve through collective imagination.

Throughout the venue, various activities catered to different interests and age groups. Participants engaged in lively quiz games testing their literary knowledge, while historical fiction readings transported attendees to different eras of Philippine history. The festival's inclusive approach ensured that everyone from seasoned book club members to young readers found something to capture their interest.

A Celebration of Filipino Literary Culture

The festival buzzed with creative energy as spoken word poetry performances by teens and young adults added contemporary artistic expression to the mix. A special session on zines conducted by BBZ introduced attendees to the world of independent publishing, highlighting alternative avenues for creative expression.

Publishers including Bookshelf PH (co-organizer of the event), Grana Books, and Aklat Alamid showcased their latest publications, offering festival-goers a glimpse into the current landscape of Philippine publishing. For aspiring authors, a valuable session on copyright law provided essential information about protecting their creative work.

Cultivating a Culture of Reading and Knowledge-Sharing

In a symbolic gesture embodying the festival's spirit, publishers and authors came together to donate books to the SM Book Nook. This meaningful act, witnessed by SM Book Nook pioneer Shereen Sy, underscored the collective commitment to promoting literacy and making literature accessible to more Filipinos.

The presence of SM Cares Assistant Vice President Richard A. Caluyo, festival co-organizer and BookShelfPH co-founder Monette Quiogue, and SM Aura Regional Operations Head Stephanie Co highlighted the institutional support behind initiatives that promote reading and literary engagement.

More Than Just a Book Event

The SM Book Nook Reading Festival transcended the conventional book fair format by creating an immersive experience that celebrated every aspect of literary culture. From the captivating reading by author Bambi Rodriguez that enthralled the audience to the energetic discussions that flowed throughout the venue, the festival exemplified how literature continues to unite and inspire Filipinos.

As participants departed with signed books, new connections, and fresh inspiration, the festival left an indelible mark on the Philippine literary community, reinforcing SM Book Nook's role as a vital space for nurturing Filipino storytelling and creativity.

For those interested in participating in future literary events and community programs, more information is available at the SM Supermalls website: https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares/

This article celebrates the SM Book Nook Reading Festival held on January 31, 2025, at SM Aura, which brought together 500 book enthusiasts to celebrate Filipino literature through author meet-and-greets, interactive storytelling, workshops, and performances.