In celebration of World Water Day, SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, organized coastal cleanup activities across six locations with seven participating malls nationwide, reinforcing its long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable waste management in its most-loved malls.

This year’s coastal cleanup emphasized enhanced waste segregation education to deepen understanding among volunteers and communities on proper sorting, recycling, and disposal of collected waste. 

It also underscored that everyday actions—from responsible waste disposal to recycling—play a critical role in protecting marine ecosystems. 

United in the common goal of protecting the environment and diverting waste away from the oceans,  Coastal Cleanups were organized across SM City La Union, SM City Urdaneta Central, SM City Tanza, SM City Daet, SM City Consolacion, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall

The coastal cleanup activities took SM Coastal Cleanups Go Beyond Trash, Teach Communities to Careplace across SM City La Union, SM City Urdaneta Central, SM City Tanza, SM City Daet, SM City Consolacion, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall, bringing together communities in a shared effort to protect local coastal environments and divert waste away from the ocean. 

During the cleanups, collected waste was carefully sorted and categorized, allowing participants to see firsthand the types of materials commonly found in coastal areas—from plastic packaging and beverage containers to other discarded items that threaten marine life and coastal habitats. 

By focusing on waste analysis and segregation, it raised awareness on the impact of improperly managed waste and encouraged Filipinos to adopt more responsible environmental practices in their daily lives.

These coastal cleanup activities form part of SM Supermalls’ broader environmental sustainability programs, aligned with the SM Green Movement and the company’s Waste-Free Future campaign. 

“Protecting our coastal and marine environments requires a more proactive, end-to-end approach with the cleanups starting with education, deepening awareness, and sustaining collective action,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director for Environment and Sustainability of SM Supermalls. 

“By helping communities understand the importance of proper waste segregation and responsible waste management, we hope to inspire long-term behavioral change that benefits both people and the planet.”

The initiative also highlights the spirit of bayanihan, bringing together mall communities, environmental partners, and local stakeholders in a shared effort to care for the environment.

As SM Cares continues to strengthen its sustainability programs throughout the year, the public is encouraged to participate in upcoming environmental initiatives, including World Oceans Day Cleanup Drives in June, International Coastal Cleanup activities in September, and National Environmental Awareness Month initiatives in November.

Through sustained efforts like these, SM Cares continues to empower communities to take part in protecting the environment—all for Filipinos, and all for the planet. 

To learn more about SM Cares’ environmental initiatives and how you can take part in upcoming programs, visit https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

SM Supermalls and Sparklo executives formalize their partnership during the official launch of Sparklo’s reverse vending machines in the Philippines, expanding the SM Green Recycling Machine program under the SM Green Movement.

SM Supermalls is strengthening its commitment to environmental sustainability through a new partnership with global cleantech company Sparklo.

SM Supermalls and Sparklo executives formalize their partnership during the official launch of Sparklo’s reverse vending machines in the Philippines, expanding the SM Green Recycling Machine program under the SM Green Movement.

Expanding the reach of the SM Green Movement and the SM Green Recycling Machine (GRM) program, the partnership aims to make recycling more accessible, convenient, and rewarding for participating customers through SM malls nationwide.

The collaboration introduces Sparklo’s reverse vending machine technology in the Philippines for the first time, providing an innovative way for customers to recycle plastic bottles and cans while visiting SM malls.

“This initiative further elevates the role our malls play in ensuring a greener future, all for Filipinos. When we help make recycling accessible and rewarding, taking steps to protect the environment for a more sustainable tomorrow becomes as easy as stepping into your most-loved SM Supermall,” said Steven Tan, SM Supermalls President.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan tests the Sparklo reverse vending machine, underscoring SM’s commitment to empowering communities to build everyday recycling habits

Technology for the Environment

The SM Green Recycling Machine program empowers communities by transforming everyday mall visits into meaningful acts of environmental responsibility. By providing easily accessible avenues for customers to build the practice of recycling, the initiative helps divert plastic away from landfills while encouraging long-term sustainable habits among mallgoers.

All collected plastics are properly processed and recycled, supporting SM Prime Holdings’ commitment to a waste-free future.

Customers simply place empty PET plastic bottles into the recycling machine, which collects and sorts the bottles for proper recycling while encouraging responsible waste disposal.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan tests the Sparklo reverse vending machine, underscoring SM’s commitment to empowering communities to build everyday recycling habits.

A Green Movement That Cares

The program is part of the SM Green Movement, the environmental sustainability platform of SM Supermalls that inspires communities to adopt greener lifestyles.

Under the program’s initial phase, 10 SM Green Recycling Machines have been deployed across selected SM malls nationwide, allowing customers to conveniently recycle PET plastic beverage bottles during their visits.

Participating locations include SM Mall of Asia, S Maison, SM Southmall, SM Aura, SM North Edsa, SM Megamall, The Podium, SM City San Lazaro, SM Seaside City Cebu and SM Lanang.

The partnership with Sparklo will further scale this effort through the planned rollout of 30 additional recycling machines in more SM Supermalls across the Philippines.

“By combining innovative recycling technology with community participation, the SM - Sparklo partnership aims to strengthen the country’s recycling ecosystem while promoting responsible waste management practices,” said Ellen Quilas, Sparklo Country Manager.

A recycled‑plastic bin demonstrates how discarded bottles can be transformed into useful community assets—turning waste into purpose and supporting more sustainable habits for all.

A customer uses the SM Green Recycling Machine Powered by Sparklo—symbolizing how simple everyday actions can help build a waste‑free future, one recycled bottle at a time.            

A recycled‑plastic bin demonstrates how discarded bottles can be transformed into useful community assets—turning waste into purpose and supporting more sustainable habits for all.

Partnership for a Waste-Free Tomorrow

The expanded program also supports SM’s Waste-Free Future campaign, reinforcing the company’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship, plastic waste diversion, and sustainable community engagement.

Through partnerships, technology, and everyday participation from mall visitors, SM continues to make recycling easier and more accessible—empowering communities to take small actions that contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

What if one day could shape both how you work and how you earn? Trabaho at Negosyo brings employment and entrepreneurship together—redefining the job fair as a career launchpad that connects Filipinos to jobs, mentoring, and skills for what comes next.

Leaders from public and private sectors come together to launch Trabaho O Negosyo at SM Mall of Asia, with President Ferdinand Marcos gracing the event, strengthening collaboration for jobs and MSMEs

Fully supported by SM Job Fairs and SM for MSMEs, this comprehensive event created vital community opportunities by matching job seekers with employers and providing aspiring entrepreneurs with expert mentorship and clear pathways to success.

“MSMEs like us contribute to the economy because as we expand, so do our requirements – like manpower, so we can contribute through creating jobs.” - JORGE WIENEKE of Tokyo Tempura

At the heart of the event was a large-scale job fair connecting applicants with employers from key sectors including BPO and IT, manufacturing, construction, real estate, healthcare and medical services, retail, financial services, tourism, hotels and restaurants, and the academe.

Just steps away, aspiring entrepreneurs received practical mentoring on how to turn business ideas, side hustles, and small enterprises into sustainable ventures—demonstrating how trabaho and negosyo can grow side by side.

Thousands of Filipinos turn up for opportunities as Trabaho O Negosyo transforms SM Mall of Asia into a vibrant career crossroads.

With SM Job Fairs providing the platform and reach, employment opportunities were brought closer to communities—making job access more immediate, practical, and inclusive.

Meanwhile, SM for MSMEs highlighted the vital role of micro, small, and medium enterprises not only as businesses, but as job generators and engines of inclusive growth. While many participants were hired on the spot, others left inspired to build enterprises that could create jobs for others.

To further streamline the journey from application to employment, SM Government Service Express enabled participants to process key requirements on-site. 

Participating agencies included the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Social Security System (SSS), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth), and the Pag-IBIG Fund—making essential services more accessible in one convenient location.

Trabaho at Negosyo tells a bigger story—today’s job seeker can become tomorrow’s employer. By combining job matching, MSME mentoring, and government services in one space, the initiative reflects a forward-thinking approach to workforce development where employment and entrepreneurship reinforce each other.

Through collaborations like this, SM Supermalls continues to strengthen its commitment to empowering Filipinos—championing both livelihoods and local enterprises, and proving that when trabaho and negosyo move together, communities move forward.

We all want the best for ourselves, and we’ll do whatever it takes to get it. We wanna look good, feel good, and be our absolute best, all the time. We want every experience that takes us to the MAX!

Good news: SM Supermalls has you covered. From fashion fits to foodie spots that hit different, here are all the new ways you can max-out your malling experience with your most-loved mall in Cebu!

STEP 1:  Stylemaxxing – Get in your best fit

It all starts with what you wear. Does it fit? Is it swag? More importantly, does it make you appreciate yourself more?

Anothersole 

A first in Cebu, this Singaporean footwear brand is where fashion meets sustainability. 

Known for its eco‑conscious, leather-laced-up flats and sandals, Anothersole in SM Seaside City Cebu’s Upper Ground Level, City Wing, is a globally renowned brand that’s sure to bring casual comfort and everyday wearability to your fits, while keeping conscious fashion at its maximum.

Charles & Keith

Max‑out your everyday wardrobe at the new, soon-to-open Charles & Keith, where contemporary fashion feels more elegant at the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu. 

From casual fits to going‑out goals, it’s a style destination that serves bold, chic energy every time you go out.

Victoria’s Secret

Get your angel wings ready, and be prepared to max out your runway‑ready figure at the first-in-Cebu Victoria’s Secret at the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu. 

Famous for its lingerie, loungewear, and beauty essentials, this lifestyle favorite offers pieces that level up your confidence and feel‑good energy.

STEP 2: Looksmaxxing – Look good, feel sexier

Looking good is not enough! To feel better, you gotta be healthier.

Bath & Body Works

Look good, feel fresh, and feel confident in yourself. Indulge with the first-in-Cebu Bath & Body Works at the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu, with body care essentials and seasonal fragrance collections that not only max out how you look good, but how you feel as well. 

Looking good feels better when you feel amazing.

STEP 3: Foodmaxxing – Taste only what’s best!

Lastly, no feel-good guide is complete without the best reward for that complete, maxed-out vibe—great food!

Mr. & Mrs. Thai

Take your sawasdee to Visayas and satisfy your Thai food cravings to the max at the new, soon-to-open Mr. & Mrs. Thai in SM City Cebu, Main mall. With a menu rooted in classic Thai favorites, it’s the perfect stop for foodies looking for vibrant, spice-packed eats in Cebu.

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Grill

Premium steak, you ask? Let’s take that up a notch at the first Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Grill in Cebu. 

From ribeyes and filet to elevated comfort sides and crafty bar bites, it’s a steakhouse experience that serves next-level satisfaction, where world-renowned USDA Prime Black Angus beef takes center stage here at the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu.

Yakiniku Like

For hands-on grilling that's sure to maximize all the space inside your stomach, opening soon in Cebu, the all-new Yakiniku Like is here to deliver Japan’s solo yakiniku concept to the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu, with quick service, premium slices, and an interactive BBQ experience perfect for fueling up solo or with your crew.

Mallmaxxed so hard, you’re sure to come back for more! That’s SM Supermalls for you—giving you all you need to feel your best and take your everyday experiences to the MAX!

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

MANILA, Philippines - Becoming part of the solution toward better waste management practices has been made easier by SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) with The SM Waste-Free Future (WFF) Manual. 

Launched at SM’s first Sustainability Expo, the 17-page visual guide offers a simple and easy-to-follow resource on how everyone can engage with waste management touchpoints available in their most-loved SM Supermalls. 

"The easiest way to adopt sustainable practices is a two-pronged approach," said SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Sustainability, Liza Silerio. "The first is building the avenues that make waste management accessible and easy to do. The second is ensuring that these are easy habits to build and practice in our daily lives.” 

The manual combines text and visuals to enhance the "Learn - Practice - Champion" workflow, a three-step approach to make these practices easy to adapt and eventually pass on, with additional green tips and trivia.  Understanding how even small, thoughtful steps can make a huge difference is key to helping reduce waste sent to landfills. 

Back to Basics

To further understand the composition of our waste, SM Prime led a Waste Analysis Characterization Study (WACS) in its largest development, the SM Mall of Asia Complex. The top 10 most common waste items were identified:  

1.     PET Bottles

2.     Plastic Cutlery

3.     Single-use plastic

4.     Plastic cups from coffee or milk tea

5.     Soiled coffee paper cups

6.     Soiled food containers

7.     Food packaging and sachets

8.     Soiled tissue or napkins

9.     Soiled diapers/ sanitary products

10.  Food waste

The SM Waste Free Future manual encourages everyone to properly dispose of waste by using designated Recyclable-Disposable-Compostable (RDC) bins made accessible in all SM Malls.

Disposable items and containers such as plastic cutlery, single-use plastic, plastic cups from coffee or milk tea, soiled coffee paper cups and food containers, food packaging and sachets, and soiled tissue or napkins, diapers, and sanitary products are for tossing into the gray "Disposable" Bins. 

Finally, all food waste with no packaging and cutlery are guided to the green "Compostable" Bins.

As one of the fastest-growing solid waste streams in the world, Electronic Waste (E-Waste), ranging from batteries to broken gadgets and technological accessories, gets special mention. SM Supermalls promotes proper disposal of e-waste through special bins in SM Cyberzone areas as easy drop-off points for recycling or processing before disposal of small, used, and defective electronic devices. 

Take action, join the movement                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

Every first Friday and Saturday of the month from 10:00am to 2:00pm, mallgoers can bring their trash and convert it to cash. Trash-to-Cash encourages household segregation by bringing clean and dry recyclables in designated Trash-to-Cash areas in exchange for economic incentives. The program promotes sustainable systems and the advancement of the circular economy. 

To further divert plastics from the environment, SM implements its Plastic Waste Collection program across all of its properties. Since its integration in 2019, 70,000 kilograms of clean, empty, and dry consumer plastics have been collected.

Through SM Cares, SM Prime’s corporate social responsibility arm, regular coastal cleanups are organized for communities to mitigate the problem of marine pollution by removing waste before it spreads further in the seas. Last year, volunteers were able to divert 200,000 kilograms of marine litter from the ocean through three major coastal cleanups organized nationwide on top of weekly cleanups done by SM Estates.

Another Coastal Cleanup drive has been scheduled this year on March 22 across SM La Union, SM City Urdaneta Central, SM City Tanza, SM City J Mall, SM City Daet, and SM City Consolacion for World Water Day.

"Communicating waste management practices clearly and easily helps our stakeholders support our vision for a Waste Free Future. When we all come together and choose to help save our planet, even the smallest actions toward the right direction yield great results," said Silerio.

Let’s be honest, Mindanao–we’ve never been background characters. There’s a certain confidence in the way we move. We’re sharp, bold, and sure of what we want. We don’t need to be loud to show who’s the leading character.

And since we know what iconic-ness we bring to the table, the place we spend our time in? Well it has to keep up. The vibe, the energy, the experience. 

The good news is that across Mindanao, new firsts are arriving, firsts that can keep up and set the scene at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls–the mall of firsts.

The Opening Act: Serving Cravings And Lewks

Because once the plans are locked, it’s never just about the food. It’s about how you show up. The table becomes the backdrop, the look comes together, and suddenly, your first act is in full motion

• Soul Kitchen / Fast Fresh 

Some scenes call for comfort, and at the first soon-to-open Soul Kitchen/Fast Fresh in SM at the expansion wing, level 1 of SM City Davao, that comfort is about to come plated just right. 

The Banana Pecan Pancake will bring that sweet, indulgent moment, while the White Chicken Rice can keep it classic and satisfying. Ez great food down, so you can keep your main character on.

• King’s Feast 

Some scenes call for royal treatment–and at the first soon-to-open King’s Feast in VisMin at the level 2 expansion wing of SM City Davao, it will begin with an all-you-can-eat spread fit for main characters who don’t do small portions. 

This is where plates will stay full, and tables will feel like your own feasting hall. Because if you’re stepping out in full looks, the food should rise to the occasion.

The Second Take: Brewed and Booked

Every great story has an in-between moment, a pause before the climactic scenes–the kind where things slow down just enough for the main character to decide what happens next. 

At the 2nd level, expansion wing of SM City Davao, the first soon-to-open ZUS Coffee in Mindanao will offer exactly that kind of reset: good coffee, a solid spot to regroup, and just enough caffeine to cue the next scene.

The Turning Scene: Confidence In Center Frame

It’s time for your close-up with a glow up. At the lower ground level of SM Lanang, the first Idara Aesthetics in Davao will bring advanced aesthetic treatments closer so you can step into frame polished, confident, and fully in your main character energy.

The Final Shot: Go All Out, Icon

Every main character needs a great ending, and the first DJI in Northern Mindanao at the 3rd level of Cyberzone in SM CDO Downtown Premier–makes sure yours is nothing short of cinematic. 

Because in every story worth telling, it’s the final frame that can turn something good into a masterpiece.

From the opening act to the final shot, the scenes are set–and now it’s your move. Because when you know you’re the lead, you don’t wait for the spotlight. You step into it.

Main character energy? Fully secured–only at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

By bringing together employers, job seekers, and government agencies in one accessible space, SM Supermalls continues to max out experiences—turning malls into hubs where careers begin, requirements are completed, and futures move forward.

Led by SM Retail, the job fair gathered companies from across the SM Group’s diverse businesses—spanning malls and real estate, retail, food and beverage, logistics, education, and banking. More than just high foot traffic, the event delivered high intent, high engagement, and strong hiring outcomes.

From application to employment—on the same day

One of the strongest highlights of the job fair was the number of applicants hired on the spot (HOTS), showcasing the efficiency and accessibility of SM’s hiring ecosystem.

For many job seekers, the experience was nothing short of life-changing. Through on-site interviews and real-time assessments, applicants were able to move quickly from application to employment—removing the long waiting periods often associated with traditional recruitment.

A job fair that works for real people

For many first-time job seekers and breadwinners, the SM Job Fair offered not just jobs—but relief, speed, and hope. “Makakatulong yung ganitong pa-event sa mga pamilya,” shared Joshua Bulauitan, hired on the spot as a Sales Clerk. “Kung wala kang trabaho at nagigipit ka na, pumunta ka lang dito—may instant trabaho ka.”

This immediate hiring momentum reflects SM Retail’s consistently strong hiring demand and absorption rates, ensuring that SM Job Fairs translate into real jobs—not just applications.

Employers meet job-ready talent, faster

Employers likewise cited the effectiveness of SM Job Fairs in reaching the right candidates efficiently.

“Sumali po kami dito because we are looking to hire more employees,” said Lyka Sababan of SM Appliance Center. “Alam po namin na maraming jobseekers ang pumupunta dito, and effective po talaga ang job fairs para sa mga companies na naghahanap ng new employees.”

Meanwhile, financial services firms highlighted the long-term success of hires from SM Job Fairs.

“The candidates we hired from our last job fair here at SM North EDSA have good profiles,” shared Tia Macatlang of BDO Life, “and we see that they are now successful financial advisers.”

Strengthening employment through public-private collaboration

The job fair was held in partnership with key government agencies, including the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Public Employment Service Office (PESO)—underscoring the value of public-private collaboration in employment generation.

“Malaki ang tulong ng SM Supermalls sa PESO at DOLE,” said Jon Tito, Group Leader of QC PESO. “Kinakalat nila ang opportunities para sa mga naghahanap ng trabaho.”

Ava Michelle Estrella of SSS emphasized the importance of government services for job seekers, making hiring easier and faster

SM Government Service Express: making hiring easier, faster

To further simplify the employment journey, the job fair featured SM Government Service Express, a one-stop hub where applicants could process pre-employment requirements in one location.

Participating agencies included the Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG Fund, PhilHealth, and the Philippine National Police for police clearance.

“Pinapadali ng ganitong job fairs ang mga oportunidad para sa jobseekers,” explained Adolf Hernandez of PhilHealth QC. “May hired on the spot ka na, at nandito na rin ang mga government agencies para sa requirements.”

SSS echoed this, emphasizing accessibility: “Importante na sumasali ang mga government agencies sa job fairs,” said Ava Michelle Estrella of SSS, “kasi on the spot, natutulungan namin ang applicants sa pagkuha ng requirements.”

Bringing opportunities closer, nationwide

Following the strong turnout at SM City North EDSA, SM Supermalls continues to bring job opportunities closer to Filipinos with a series of job fairs nationwide this March:

●             March 4 – SM Center Antipolo

●             March 6 – SM Mall of Asia

●             March 11 – SM City Davao

●             March 13 – SM City Trece Martires

●             March 20 – SM City North EDSA

●             March 25 – SM City Urdaneta Central

●             March 26 - SM City Tuguegarao

●             March 27 – SM City Trece Martires

●             March 27 – SM City Cauayan

Job seekers are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resume, valid IDs, and other basic pre-employment requirements, and to arrive early to maximize interview opportunities. Admission to SM Job Fairs is free and open to the public, unless otherwise specified.

For updates on schedules and participating employers, applicants may visit SM Supermalls’ official social media pages or inquire at the customer service desk of participating malls.

Turning malls into platforms for opportunity

The continued success of the SM Job Fair highlights how the country’s most loved malls are evolving beyond retail, becoming platforms that deliver real-world solutions for Filipinos.

By bringing together employers, job seekers, and government agencies in one accessible space, SM Supermalls continues to max out experiences—turning malls into hubs where careers begin, requirements are completed, and futures move forward.

At SM Supermalls, opportunities don’t just exist—they feel possible.

MANILA, Philippines, 13th March 2026 - For three decades, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) has steadfastly advanced responsible water stewardship for a more resilient water future through its operating arm, SM Supermalls.

SM Prime invested in its first Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in the late 90’s with SM Southmall. STPs are essential for protecting public health and the environment and supporting community development. Since then, STPs have become a standard fixture in all 89 malls, reducing water waste and pollution, and safeguarding water resources.

SM Supermalls embeds water conservation practices across its operations. Recycled water is used in water closets for flushing, cleaning, and watering greens. Additionally, efficient low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies prevent unnecessary consumption at scale.

"SM had always been conscious of its environmental impact on shared social good. Our water journey is rooted in our commitment to maximize what we borrow from the environment, creating resiliency for future generations,” said Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President and Head of Sustainability and Resilience.

Today, SM is evaluating centralized STPs that can serve multiple developments and allow for inter-building treatment systems, lowering operational costs, and enhancing process efficiency. "Part of our water resilience framework is building long-term capacity for water disruptions. Since the standardization of STPs across our malls, SM took it a step further and scaled its water sustainability efforts," said Silerio.

A first in the industry, SM City Baguio's Rainwater Treatment Facility has already processed almost 20,000 cubic meters of rainwater into potable water since it was launched, providing 30% of the mall’s total monthly clean water requirement since 2023. This translates to saving the equivalent of 12.7 million, 1.5-liter mineral water bottles or almost eight Olympic-sized swimming pools of freshwater from the grid.

Leveraging the mall’s nationwide reach, SM further campaigns sustainable water use through consistent awareness and engagement, SM creates public awareness and education campaigns through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares to activate future water stewards in the community.

This proactive and efficient approach resulted in SM malls receiving multiple industry distinctions, such as the Bantayog ng Lawa Award from the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) and the first-ever Gawad Taga-Ilog Award bestowed upon a private entity by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

"We’ve come a long way since the 90’s. It’s heartwarming to be recognized by our community and peers, but we continue to work harder for future generations because water is a universal human right. By implementing these sustainability measures, SM aims to move forward with greater purpose and greater possibilities," said Silerio.

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — As SM City Zamboanga opened its doors on March 20, the vibrant spirit of local entrepreneurship and culture took center stage with the unveiling of Vinta Market, a colorful marketplace dedicated to supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the Zamboanga Peninsula.

The ceremonial opening marks the launch of Vinta Market, a vibrant marketplace dedicated to showcasing proudly local products from MSMEs across the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Launched in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 9 and the SM for MSMEs program, the Vinta Market brings together 20 local MSMEs, showcasing proudly regional products ranging from handcrafted items and artisanal goods to local delicacies, fashion pieces, and unique souvenirs.

Inspired by the iconic vinta, the traditional sailboat known for its vibrant sails and deep cultural roots in Mindanao, the Vinta Market reflects the same spirit of color, movement, and community. The marketplace brings together passionate entrepreneurs and skilled artisans, offering mallgoers a lively and meaningful shopping experience rooted in local culture. 

More than just a retail destination, the Vinta Market serves as a growth platform for MSMEs—and for many entrepreneurs, this opportunity translates into real business expansion and sustained livelihood.

“We are very happy for the opportunity given to us by SM City Zamboanga… because of that, I have a growing market and a lot of suki na at SM,” shared Maria Donna of Marya Soaps and Scents from Pagadian, highlighting how increased visibility at SM has helped strengthen her customer base.

For heritage artisans, the impact goes beyond business—it’s about preserving culture and passing traditions to future generations. 

“Maraming salamat sa mga opportunity na mga ganito na pwede kaming magbenta para makahanap lalo ng market… kayo na ‘yung kasangga namin sa pag-promote ng aming weave,” said Evelinda Otong, a 4th generation Yakan weaver, underscoring the importance of platforms like SM in sustaining local craftsmanship.

Through capacity-building programs and expanded market access, MSMEs are also able to scale their operations and reach wider audiences.

“With their trainings and seminars, we’ve learned a lot… we’re proud to say that we supply all over the Philippines—and with SM Supermalls, our products can reach around the country and are now in the mainstream market,” shared Shaun Alavar of Alavar Food Products, reflecting the broader growth opportunities enabled through the partnership.

Featured MSMEs proudly showcase their locally made products at the Vinta Market, highlighting the passion and dedication behind every creation.

During the launch event, SM Supermalls executives, DTI officials, and partner stakeholders joined entrepreneurs and guests in celebrating the opening of the marketplace—highlighting a shared commitment to empower local businesses and provide them with greater market opportunities.

Visitors explored booths filled with proudly local products—each representing stories of craftsmanship, passion, and perseverance. The marketplace quickly became a vibrant hub where mallgoers discovered unique regional goods while supporting local livelihoods.

Intricately crafted local products showcase the artistry and cultural heritage of Mindanao’s talented artisans.

The launch of Vinta Market stands as one of the highlights of the opening of SM City Zamboanga, the city’s newest lifestyle destination bringing together shopping, dining, entertainment, and community experiences closer to Zamboangueños.

Through initiatives like the Vinta Market, SM Supermalls continues to champion Filipino entrepreneurship, providing MSMEs with accessible platforms to grow their businesses while celebrating the rich culture and creativity of local communities.

As shoppers explore the colorful stalls and meet the passionate makers behind the products, the Vinta Market stands as a vibrant symbol of Zamboanga’s thriving entrepreneurial spirit—where tradition, creativity, and opportunity sail forward together.

Largest turnout and PH wins in three years signals growing pool of future skating champions.

MANILA, Philippines, 14 January 2026 - With the Southeast Asian (SEA) Open Short Track Speed Skating trophy's Philippine return, SM hopes the country's success at the international derby captures a crucial window of opportunity to further enrich local skating talent. 

Designed as an entry-level international competition, the SEA Trophy allows young and emerging skaters to compete, learn, and gain exposure on a friendly yet structured stage.

“We are thrilled with the results of the latest season of this international competition,” said Joseph Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Skating. 

“Since its inaugural run, we’ve seen steady growth in participation, and this year marks our highest turnout yet, along with the country’s strongest medal haul to date," Silva added.

"Coupled with the surge of interest in ice sports following the Philippines’ recent SEA Games successes, we see this as a pivotal moment to spotlight the potential of our young, emerging athletes and further strengthen support for the development of their talent.”

On its third local mounting, the SEA Trophy has registered its largest volume of participants at 90 athletes aged six to 24 years old representing the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, India, and Indonesia. 

The Philippines emerged with a total medal win of 12 gold, 11 silver, and 6 bronze medals.

"Most of the athletes who join are starting out on their skating journeys. With this international competition, they gain more than a chance of winning medals. 

They attain access to a professional arena, while competing against regional athletes, exposing them to different styles of athleticism," said Nikki Cheng, President of the Philippine Skating Union.

Giving young, emerging athletes a home and an arena to shine

A long-time advocate of ice sports in the Philippines, SM has been home to the SEA Trophy since 2023. Mounted by SM through its Sports and Leisure Center (SLC) and SM Skating, the competition was hosted at the Olympic-sized rink of SM Skating Mall of Asia—one of the country's most established ice sports venues.

Backed by the International Skating Union (ISU) Development Commission and the Philippine Sports Commission, the SEA Trophy also serves as a development platform that ensures global participation in ice sports while encouraging skills progression, coaching exchange, and cross-border collaboration.

“Beyond providing conducive spaces for athletes to train and compete, SM recognizes that true skill development comes from exposure to international competition,” said Silva. 

“Events like this put everything they’ve trained for to the test, while fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship, values that are honed only on the ice, alongside fellow athletes.”

Through this holistic approach, SM has given both emerging and competitive athletes a home that hones them into champions. 

SEA Games podium finisher Hans Buemio, started his skating journey at SM's skating rinks. He has gone on to qualify as the country’s first homegrown speed skater for the ISU Junior World Cup series and is preparing for the next competition in Utah. 

Meanwhile, emerging international skating athletes have also been honed through the SEA Trophy. 

Chinese skater Bingzhen Dai is also a product of the tournament and has been training in SM’s Skating Rinks for the last two years. Silva hopes that with holistic support, more emerging athletes like them can come to fulfill their potential.

"With SM Supermalls, our skating industry will always have a home, one that provides inclusive and accessible pathways for our talents to grow and succeed. Through the 2026 SEA Trophy, we look forward to discovering our future champions and showcasing their excellence to the world," Silva concluded.

SM J Mall, Upper Ground Level Atrium (February 1 to 15)

SM City Davao, Annex Event Center (February 1 to 10)

SM CDO Downtown, 5th Level (February 6 to 28)

SM Podium, 2nd Level Atrium  (February 5 to 8)