To mark National Disaster Resilience Month, SM Cares gathered communities, local government units, disaster experts, and volunteers for Emergency Preparedness Forum 2025, reinforcing its long-standing advocacy for inclusive disaster readiness.
Spanning five SM malls nationwide—SM Davao, Sorsogon, Legazpi, Seaside City Cebu, and North Edsa—the forum equipped more than 2,500 participants with essential survival skills tailored to regional risks such as earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions.
Since its inception in 2015, the forum has trained more than 12,000 elderly and differently-abled individuals with critical tools and knowledge to face emergencies with confidence.
This year’s program featured interactive sessions led by Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), and renowned survival expert Dr. Ted Esguerra, focusing on real-world tools such as assembling Go-Bags, creating disaster plans, and responding to early warning alerts.
SM employee volunteers were on hand to assist elderly and people with disabilities, ensuring no one was left behind in learning life-saving techniques.
“In any emergency, presence of mind and preparation can mean the difference between life and death. Forums like this empower the elderly and persons with disabilities by turning fear into readiness. It’s not about age or ability—it’s about knowing what to do, having the tools, and being mentally and emotionally prepared to act when it counts,” said Dr. Esguerra.
Each participant also received a free Emergency Go-Bag Starter Pack, which included a whistle, flashlight, hygiene items, and other essentials.
Conducted in collaboration with local government units oand government agencies, the Emergency Preparedness Forum exemplified a whole-of-community effort in disaster risk reduction.
“Preparedness is not just a responsibility—it’s a right that should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age or ability. Through this forum, we empower senior citizens and differently-abled members of our community with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe,” said Engr. Bien Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs and Senior Citizens.
