As the first ever developer from Southeast Asia to take part on the WAF stage, SM Prime underscored its commitment towards developing a sustainable and world-class urban development in the Philippines by ushering a new era of smart cities that prioritize urban connectivity and environmental responsibility through innovative design and community-centric spaces.

Central Park Design Competition: A Global Showcase

A standout feature of SM Prime’s participation was its rollout of the Central Park Design Competition, launched in partnership with Buildner and the WAF. Launched in June, this conceptual competition sought visionary proposals from top global architectural and design firms to reimagine urban green spaces situated in the iconic Manila Bay – positioned as a centerpiece for future growth and envisioned as both an urban sanctuary and a commercial hub for international and local visitors. To date, this is one of SM Prime’s most ambitious development projects and a landmark undertaking in Philippine real estate.

The competition culminated with the presentation of five shortlisted entries, each highlighting forward-thinking approaches to urban living, with the winning concept entry officially announced on the first day of the WAF.

Re-imagining Manila Bay. SM Prime presented the concept proposals from shortlisted landscape architecture firms who participated in its Central Park Design Competition. SM Prime Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Sy shared the integrated property developer’s vision for the competition at the WAF.

“This competition reflects SM Prime's mission to create spaces where communities can thrive while embracing sustainability and innovation,” said Jessica Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy at SM Prime Holdings Inc., during her keynote address.

Interactive Booth Experience: A Glimpse into Manila’s Smart City

SM Prime Chairman of the Board Henry Sy, Jr. led SM Prime's participation at the WAF, a first for any private sector developer in the prestigious architecture forum.

The SM Prime interactive exhibit, featuring The Manila of Tomorrow, was a main fixture at the WAF 2024.

At the WAF, SM Prime offered visitors a firsthand look at its Smart City initiatives through an interactive scale model and engaging visual displays. Attendees explored the defining features of the project’s two primary islands:

Bay Living: Focused on green and open spaces, sustainable waterfront living, and health-centered design.
Destination Hub: Showcasing retail and entertainment hubs, international business districts, and cultural attractions.

WAF participants try out SM Prime’s interactive scale model display showcasing the project’s features and master plan.

Additionally, visitors were invited to experience a dedicated exhibition space showcasing the competition’s entry videos and design boards of the five shortlisted entries from BAU (Brearley Architects and Urbanists), Sasaki, SWA Group, Snohetta and Turenscape.

Strengthening SM Prime’s Global Presence
SM Prime made history as the first developer from Southeast Asia to showcase its initiatives at the WAF, marking a milestone in the company’s journey toward global recognition. This participation signals SM’s dedication to fostering architectural excellence in all its developments.

A Vision for the Future
SM Prime’s presence at WAF 2024 reflects its broader focus on championing sustainable urban design and resilient urban spaces. Through bold new initiatives like the Central Park Design Competition, and a commitment to future-forward strategies, the company continues to position itself as a trailblazer in smart city development across the region.

For more information about SM Prime Holdings Inc. and its projects, please visit www.smprime.com

Media Contact: Kirk Maurice R. Campos Senior PR Manager kirk.campos@smsmartcity.com SM Prime Holdings Inc.