SM Group said it continues to prioritize equal opportunity and meritocracy, emphasizing the empowerment of women in its workforce, during the Philippines’ Women’s Month.
The company said these principles are core to its business practices, fostering an inclusive environment that contributes to sustained growth and long-term success.
“Empowering women through equal opportunity and meritocracy drives performance and promotes growth of organizations,” said Elizabeth Anne Uychaco, SM Investments executive vice-president for corporate services, group diversity officer and chief risk and compliance officer.
SM said women comprise 64 percent of its workforce, with 58 percent holding senior leadership positions.
“Retail has a ratio of 60/40 [female versus male employees]. In terms of females in the senior manager and executive positions, females are twice as many as their male counterparts,” said Leny Hernandez, SM Retail Inc.’s senior vice-president for human resources.
SM Investments was recognized for its “evidence-based progress” on gender equality in Transparency and Reporting at the 2024 Philippines Women’s Empowerment Principles Awards by the United Nations.
The company also highlighted initiatives like SM Hotels’ Tela Tales campaign and SM Store’s Green Finds Tarp project, which it said support social and economic inclusion by partnering with women leaders and groups aligned with SM’s value of social entrepreneurship.
SM said it remains committed to creating an environment of equal opportunity to drive business success and contribute to positive societal impact.