Empowering the next generation
Sustainability Forum 2025 unites sectors for climate action
By Len Amadora
The Manila Bulletin, in partnership with top academic and major corporations, is set to host the Sustainability Forum 2025 with the theme "Empowering the Next Generation". Happening on Nov. 19 to 20, at the National University in Sampaloc, Manila, the two-day event aims to look more closely at how different Philippine industries are responding to global challenges by adopting practical and forward-looking sustainable practices.
The forum opens with a keynote from Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan, a lawyer and a dedicated public servant known for his strong advocacy on food security and agriculture.
Morning sessions on Day 1 will feature speakers from Arthaland, BPI, Aboitiz Power, and, Globe Telecom, highlighting how sustainability is being integrated into sectors ranging from real estate and finance to energy and communications. These talks will offer attendees practical insights into climate action and building resilient communities.
In the afternoon, representatives from SM Investments Corporation, Steel Asia, Megaworld, and PLDT Home will share how their industries are putting sustainability into action. Expect real world examples of how businesses are driving inclusive development and environmental responsibility.
Day 2 begins with an inspiring keynote address from Mr. Hans "Chico" Sy, president of SM Engineering Design and Development. He leads the design and construction of SM Prime Holdings' properties, integrating sustainability and disaster resilience in its developments.
Morning talks will come from Manila Bulletin, Ayala Land, The Medical City, and Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation (TLDC). Together, they will explore sustainable cities, healthcare systems and evolving practices in media, reflecting how sustainability intersects with nearly every field.
The afternoon lineup brings in NEO, SM Hotels & Conventions Corp., Filinvest and National University, covering topics like green hospitality, purposeful innovation and circular models for coastal resilience.
Across both days, the forum brings together leaders from real estate, energy, finance, healthcare, telecommunications, hospitality and education, all sharing how they're embedding sustainability into their operations, design and company culture.
Sustainability has never been a solo effort. It thrives on collaboration, which is why this forum matters. This year's forum is a reminder that meaningful progress comes when industries choose to move together. No single sector can tackle the complex challenges of climate change, resource depletion and inequality alone. This event shows how each industry plays a role, and how working together can lead to real, lasting change. And that is what sustainability is all about.