SM Taps Gen Z Employees for Insights; Meralco Explores SMRs with US Firm

SM Supermalls, a prominent player in the Philippine retail landscape, is actively seeking to understand the evolving preferences of younger consumers by establishing an internal "Gen Z Council." This think tank, composed exclusively of Gen Z employees, aims to keep management informed about the fast-changing tastes of this demographic. SM Supermalls president Steven Tan acknowledged the value of insights from the younger generation, humorously noting his own inability to participate in the council. Council members first discuss emerging trends among themselves before presenting their ideas to management. The more experienced executives then apply their practical knowledge and experience to balance these proposals. Joaquin Agustin, SM Supermalls’ executive vice president for marketing, stated that the council plays a crucial role in shaping company strategies by offering direct insights from their generation. This approach signifies SM's commitment to integrating the perspectives of its youngest employees to maintain the relevance of its malls and broader business operations. In parallel, Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), a leading power utility in the Philippines, is exploring the potential deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by partnering with a US-based engineering firm. Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN), a subsidiary of Meralco, has inked a deal with Sargent & Lundy, in collaboration with local engineering firm AMH Philippines Inc., to launch a comprehensive feasibility study on SMRs. This initiative is part of a $2.8-million technical assistance program funded by the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), which Meralco secured in February. The study, expected to be completed by the end of 2027, will provide a rigorous, data-driven basis for determining the viability, timing, and methods for integrating SMRs into the country's electricity mix. SMRs typically range from 300 MW to 450 MW in capacity. Meralco has formed an SMR working group to collaborate closely with the engineering firms. MGEN president and CEO Emmanuel Rubio emphasized the significance of the partnership with Sargent & Lundy, calling it a "pivotal step in turning our nuclear roadmap into actionable, data-driven decisions under our NEST (nuclear energy strategic transition) program." He added, "As we advance this USTDA-funded study, MGEN remains committed to exploring safe, reliable, and low-carbon technologies such as SMRs as we work to secure the Philippines’ long-term energy future and support the country’s economic growth." Discussions on nuclear energy have gained momentum under President Marcos, seemingly continuing the vision of his father, the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., who initiated the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, though that facility was later plagued by safety concerns.