The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) has selected business tycoon Hans Sy, who chairs the executive committee of SM Prime Holdings, as the recipient of the group’s “Management Person of the Year.”

In a statement, the MAP announced that Sy is the 49th recipient of the prestigious award, following a stringent selection process.

The prominent business group confers the award for individuals in business or government who have attained “unquestioned distinction in the practice of management.”

Recipients of this award must have made “valuable contributions to the progress of the country and in re-shaping national values.”

This year, the MAP announced that it has selected Sy for the award in recognition of his lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship, social inclusion, good governance, and resilience.

In particular, he was recognized for establishing SM Prime as a benchmark for sustainable and resilient urban development.

The MAP noted that Sy’s leadership “deserves to be emulated by their peers and by the younger leaders and managers.”

“I have never seen myself as someone deserving of awards or recognition. I simply try to do my part. What matters most to me is using what we build to make a difference in our country,” said Sy.

He noted that, “At SM, it has long been our responsibility to create spaces that protect people, support communities, and help Filipinos stand stronger for the future.”

Sy was commended for championing people-centered leadership and diversity by fostering a corporate culture that promotes employee welfare, professional development, and work-life balance.

In this regard, Sy has been spearheading innovative and sustainable retail development, which provides growth opportunities for communities where SM malls operate.

He was also lauded for helping shape global and local guidance on integrating disaster risk reduction into core business strategies.

Sy founded ARISE Philippines, a network of private sector companies committed to pushing for disaster risk reduction. He also previously represented the Philippines in the United Nations (UN) International Strategy for Disaster Reduction.

Furthermore, he was recognized for expanding access to quality education and athletic excellence, as well as supporting vulnerable children by providing critical healthcare to indigent children with cancer.

The MAP also said Sy’s personal contributions to shaping national values and inspiring others were taken into consideration.

His exemplary leadership has “raised the Philippine flag with pride in other countries like China, and proved that Filipino companies can compete successfully with global big brands.”

MAP will officially confer the “Management Person of the Year” to Sy on Nov. 24.