EDITORS DESK
Discussions around climate change, sustainability initiatives, and energy transition have become central to modern discourse. Governments, private companies, and educational institutions worldwide are leading efforts to keep these topics at the forefront of our collective consciousness.
To further the conversation and highlight the roles of the real estate and power sectors in shaping a sustainable future, the Manila Bulletin will hold its inaugural MB Sustainability Focus Session. This new event, more industry-focused than the previous MB Sustainability Forum, continues Manila Bulletin's advocacy since 2022, calling on individuals and businesses to adopt sustainable practices.
The MB Sustainability Focus Session will bring together industry leaders, advocates, and experts for an informative and inspiring session that introduces fresh perspectives on sustainability. Taking place on Sept. 24, 2024, the event will be held at the Dr. Robert C. Sy Grand Ballroom, located in the Blessed Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila City. UST is the Manila Bulletin’s academic partner for this event.
Stephanie Anne Go of RLC Residences will discuss the future of urban living and how the real estate company integrates sustainability into its developments. Hans Lopez-Vito of Ayala Land will outline the company’s step-by-step approach to embedding sustainability in its business model.
Jessica Sy of SMDC will lead a session titled "A Living Framework for Sustainable and Smart City Initiatives," while Oliver Chan of ArthaLand will discuss efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C by 2030, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
Cleofe Albiso of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts will also present the group’s sustainability projects.
In the power sector, Ronald Suarez will share AboitizPower’s strategy for navigating the Philippines’ energy transition, while Stanley Jordan Siahetiong of Shell Philippines will speak on the company’s progress in sustainable energy initiatives.
The event will feature special sessions with Makati Mayor Abby Binay, who serves as the Cities Climate Finance Leadership Alliance’s City Ambassador for Asia and was the first mayor to commit to the global initiative Cities Race to Resilience (RtR) in 2021.
Keynote speaker William Ti Jr. of WTA Architecture and Design Studio will present his vision for thoughtfully designed communities that foster better interactions and enhance living environments.
Sheila Lobien of Lobien Realty Group will also provide insights into the evolving landscape of sustainability in real estate.
For more information about the event, follow Manila Bulletin on Facebook for updates.
(Rey Robes Ilagan is the editor of Manila Bulletin’s Environment and Sustainability section.)