THE Manila Times (TMT) 500 and the Next 500 is now available starting today, June 30, sponsored by Nutri-Asia Inc.

The 2024 edition theme is "The era of sustainability," centering on how businesses navigated and thrived amid the impact of the pandemic.

In recent years, different industries have seen evolving market trends, including more businesses embracing sustainability and aligning their practices with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly on the environment, social and governance (ESG).

ESG has become integral as more companies see the value of sustainability and responsible business practices. Sustainability reporting is now standard practice and even a Securities and Exchange Commission requirement for publicly listed companies.

Sustainability reporting fosters greater transparency and accountability from corporations. It has become a strategic act for companies to measure and monitor their contributions in achieving sustainability targets, enhancing their reputation and managing risks effectively.

In the TMT 500 list, San Miguel Corp. secures the top spot again, leading in revenue growth and sustainability investments. One of these investments is its development of over 1,000 megawatts of battery energy storage systems in more than 30 sites across the Philippines. It is set to be the largest renewable energy development under a single company in the country thus far.

In the food manufacturing industry, Nutri-Asia Inc. is among the companies that support SDGs and practices ESG principles, advancing its commitment to responsible and sustainable production of its products and services.

It has received recognition for its sustainability efforts, including its Bring Your Own Bote initiative, for which it has received an Excellence Award at the 18th Philippine Quill Awards. The brand has long been joining the movement toward a zero-waste community and will continue to do so for the next generations to come.