Yolanda housing project gets award

MANILA, Philippines — A housing project of a local firm for survivors of Super Typhoon Yolanda recently won international recognition in the United States.

The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Foundation, a global association of shopping center industry, conferred the Albert Sussman International Community Support Award to the Yolanda housing project of SM Prime, one of the country’s largest shopping retail operators.

The award was conferred during the global retail real estate convention in Las Vegas, on May 20.

The Albert Sussman International Community Support Award is considered the highest honor in the community support award program of the ICSC Foundation.

The foundation recognizes the outstanding humanitarian work and most innovative and impactful initiatives of the retail industry in the community.

One of SM Cares’ partner NGOs, Couples for Christ-Answering the Cry of the Poor, will receive an additional financial grant from the ICSC Foundation.

SM Prime chairman Hans Sy said the award is a testament to the courage and resiliency of the Filipino spirit in the face of tragedy. 

“We have shown to the world how people could bounce back after a tragedy and how communities composed of strangers could thrive and grow together with the help of well-meaning groups and advocates,” Sy said.