Recently, the Asia’s 2019 Heroes of Philanthropy on Forbes was announced. The list is carefully selected of dozens of candidates, reviewing their monetary contributions, the depth of their involvement and the reach of their philanthropic efforts. Its aim is to highlight those giving their own money, not their company’s (unless they are the majority owners of a privately-held firm). Among whom, there are Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee and Director of SM Prime，Azim Premji, President of Indian software importer-Wipro, Jack Ma, Founder of Alibaba, etc.  

Hans Sy was listed for his great work on Child Haus, which in July opened its newly renovated and expanded center in Quezon City to house 40 cancer-stricken children and their caregivers. Sy, previously CEO of property firm SM Prime, paid $400,000 in 2010 for the property, which now provides poor provincial families with temporary shelter, as well as programs and activities that promote healing.

On his 60th birthday in 2015, Sy bought the land for Child Haus’ first location in Manila for $600,000 and paid $1.4 million to build it. Opened in 2017, he still covers its operating expenses. He visits this facility regularly with his family and friends to give comfort to the children and find better ways to serve their needs. Sy’s associates have become cosponsors and provide Child Haus with additional financial support and in-kind contributions.

Mr. Hans Sy.

He also spearheaded that SM Cares Housing Project to fund the construction of 1,000 disaster-resilient homes for the displaced victims of typhoon Yolanda, complete with access to water and electricity, sports and community facilities, livelihood and values formation, and business opportunities to make these villages self-sufficient.

Hans is the driving force behind the incorporation of the risks of climate change and natural calamities in the design and construction of all SM structures. His advocacy caught the attention of the United Nations, which appointed him the first Filipino member of the board of directors of the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction.

  By listed on the heroes list, Mr. Hans Sy is again recognized his great work of committing to achieving a long-term vision.