SM Mall of Asia Complex: Resilience and Innovation in Action

SM Mall of Asia Complex: Resilience and Innovation in Action

The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, a sprawling 67-hectare landmark along Manila Bay, stands as a testament to SM Prime Holdings’ dedication to innovation and disaster resilience. This iconic development not only fulfills the vision of its founder, Henry Sy, Sr., but also sets a benchmark for safety and stability.

Safety and Vision

Henry Sy, Sr., envisioned a destination that would bring joy and opportunities to millions. His son, Hans Sy, the SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman and co-chair of ARISE Philippines under the UN Office of Disaster Risk Resilience (UNDRR), has taken this vision further. He underscores the importance of creating resilient, sustainable spaces that prioritize both safety and community well-being. “Safety is the cornerstone of thriving communities,” he says, and his leadership reflects this belief.

ARISE Philippines and Resilient Development

Launched in 2015, ARISE Philippines is a premier private sector alliance committed to a resilient and prosperous future. The organization aims to reduce disaster-related losses, ensure risk-informed investments, and build infrastructure that can withstand natural and man-made hazards. SM Prime’s involvement with ARISE showcases its commitment to resilience, evident in the design of the MOA Complex.

Engineering a Resilient Structure

Before the MOA Complex was built, SM Prime enlisted Jan de Nul, a Belgian coastal development company, to conduct extensive research and studies. This pre-engineering phase laid the groundwork for a structure capable of withstanding the test of time and nature. One major challenge was soil erosion. To combat this, the team implemented wick drains, which act as pathways for pore water in soft soil, preventing erosion and ensuring stability. This technology, while costly, offers significant protection, especially against liquefaction during seismic events.

Innovative Foundation Design

Ground liquefaction, where soil loses strength and behaves like a liquid during earthquakes, was addressed through innovative foundation design. Driven and bored piles, combined with precise excavation methods, provide robust resistance against seismic activity. These measures ensure the complex’s stability and safety.

Storm Surge Protection

Coastal areas face the constant threat of storm surges. The MOA Complex features a robust seawall standing 4.5 meters above the Mean Lower Low Water mark, reinforced by a wave return feature that deflects high waves back to the sea. A network of drainage channels further enhances flood prevention. These features proved instrumental during Typhoon Pedring in 2011, as well as during subsequent severe weather events, protecting the complex and nearby areas from prolonged flooding.

Elevated Structures and Safety Features

The complex’s main road and structures are elevated above the National Building Code requirements, minimizing flood risk. Buildings are equipped with Earthquake Recording Instruments (ERI) that monitor seismic activity, providing valuable data for disaster preparedness. The roof deck is designed to withstand substantial loads, ensuring it serves as a safe refuge during emergencies. The exterior façade features concrete masonry walls with Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS), designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 270 kph.

Proactive Disaster Resilience Strategy

SM Prime’s dedication to disaster resilience is a proactive strategy integrated into all its business operations. A significant portion of its capital expenditure is automatically allocated to disaster resilience research and construction. This investment in safety is seen as an investment in the future.

A Responsible Property Developer

SM Prime’s longstanding reputation as a responsible property developer is built not only on its contributions to economic growth and dynamic lifestyle destinations but also on its unwavering commitment to community protection. The MOA Complex stands as a powerful symbol of this commitment, a beacon of resilience in the face of natural adversity.

In summary, the SM Mall of Asia Complex is more than just a commercial and entertainment hub. It’s a model of resilience and innovation, demonstrating how advanced engineering and a proactive approach to disaster preparedness can create safer, more sustainable communities.

For more information on the SM Mall of Asia Complex and its cutting-edge features, visit the official SM Prime Holdings website.