SM Supermalls Strengthens Water Conservation and Flood Resilience Through Rainwater Reuse

SM Supermalls is strengthening its water management initiatives through rainwater treatment, conservation, and reuse, linking its efforts to reduce water demand with measures that help manage stormwater.

The mall operator says its approach addresses both water scarcity and flooding—challenges that require different responses but share a need for better resource management.

Its initiatives include a rainwater treatment facility in Baguio City, catchment facilities across its properties, and plans to expand rainwater treatment efforts in Central Luzon.

Turning rainwater into an operational resource

At SM City Baguio, a Rainwater Treatment Facility processes collected rainwater through disinfection, filtration, and reverse osmosis, incorporating ozone technology from PureO3.

According to SM Supermalls, the facility can provide approximately 51,000 cubic meters of water annually, equivalent to about one-third of the mall’s annual water consumption.

That figure describes the facility’s stated annual supply capability. Actual output depends on factors such as rainfall, available supply, and treatment operations.

By treating collected rainwater for operational use, the facility helps the mall reduce its reliance on other water sources.

SM Supermalls also announced plans to expand its rainwater treatment initiatives in Central Luzon. The statement did not identify specific locations or an implementation schedule.

Catchment facilities support stormwater management

Across its properties, SM Supermalls reports having 32 rainwater catchment facilities with a combined holding capacity of 87,000 cubic meters, which it compares to approximately 35 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

The company says these facilities are strategically located in flood-prone areas to help manage excess stormwater while supporting water conservation and reuse.

Their role connects two operational needs: capturing runoff during rainy periods and making collected water available for appropriate uses.

The contribution of individual facilities depends on local conditions, rainfall, available capacity, and how the collected water is managed.

Conservation and resilience work together

Engr. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls vice president for corporate compliance, said resource conservation and risk mitigation have long been part of the company’s operations.

She said SM has broadened its efforts since the 1990s to reduce reliance on local water sources while addressing water scarcity and flooding.

The company describes its approach as a circular system in which water is conserved, captured, treated, and reused wherever appropriate.

During rainy periods, catchment facilities can help manage runoff and build reserves. During dry periods, available treated and stored water can support operations, subject to supply, treatment capacity, and intended use.

This approach places water management within a wider framework of operational preparedness.

Monitoring can improve efficiency

SM’s statement also identifies smart water monitoring as a way to strengthen conservation.

Tracking consumption and unusual water flows can help maintenance teams identify potential leaks earlier. Combined with efficient fixtures, monitoring can support better demand management while maintaining hygiene and normal mall operations.

The announcement presents these technologies as supporting measures without specifying a network-wide installation count.

Part of the SM Green Movement

Water stewardship is one of the focus areas of the SM Green Movement, alongside waste management and energy efficiency.

“Our initiatives and innovations are guided by the simple principle that every drop of water counts,” Silerio said.

Through conservation, rainwater treatment, and stormwater capture, SM Supermalls aims to strengthen the resilience of its properties while contributing to broader community sustainability efforts.

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