FORMER Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez’s camp rejected attempts to pin plunder and other serious crimes on him, underscoring that the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) itself made clear its referral to the Ombudsman was “issued without finding or conclusion of guilt or liability.”
In a statement, Atty. Ade Fajardo, lawyer and spokesperson of Romualdez, said recent statements attributed to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) should not be misconstrued as proof of wrongdoing.
“We take note of the DPWH Secretary’s statement. However, it is important to clarify that a DPWH ‘recommendation’ is not a finding, much less a determination of guilt,” Fajardo said.
Fajardo categorically denied reports suggesting that the ICI had recommended the filing of plunder or other serious charges against the former Speaker.
“It is not true that the ICI has recommended to the Ombudsman that former Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez be charged with plunder or other serious crimes related to the flood control or 2025 budget issue,” Fajardo said.
On the contrary, he pointed out that the ICI itself underscored the absence of any adverse conclusion against Romualdez in its referral to the Office of the Ombudsman.
“In fact, the ICI made it clear in their referral report that it was ‘issued without finding or conclusion of guilt or liability on the part of former Speaker Romualdez,’” he added.
Fajardo said Romualdez respects institutional processes and is confident that the Ombudsman will assess the matter independently and fairly.
“We respect due process and will await the Ombudsman to independently evaluate the submissions based on evidence, not press conference soundbites,” he said.
Globe Coop brought its compassion-driven spirit to the DSWD Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) in Lubao, Pampanga, through Hearts in Hands, an initiative that empowers employees to support orphaned children with both practical essentials and heartfelt care. This is part of the Globe Coop CAREavan, an employee-led outreach effort with Globe’s regional teams, delivering tailored initiatives across the country to create sustainable, localized impact for vulnerable groups, including special children, teen mothers, fisherfolk, out-of-school youth, students, and indigenous communities like the Mangyan and Aetas.
The project encouraged employee volunteers across North Luzon to take an active role in preparing more than 100 carefully curated items that were assembled into personalized gift bundles. Each bundle combines everyday necessities and comfort items, including age-appropriate toys, school and art supplies, clothing essentials, hygiene kits, uplifting books, and soft toys or blankets that offer warmth and security. Volunteers also wrote personal letters to accompany each package, giving every child a message of encouragement from someone who genuinely cares.
This year’s activation highlighted how Globe Coop’s employee-led efforts can build meaningful connections with vulnerable communities. The initiative focused not only on providing for physical needs but also on supporting children’s emotional well-being by creating small moments that help them feel valued and supported.
“For many of these children, small gestures can have a big emotional impact,” said Business Head Racquel Marcelo. “Through Hearts in Hands, we want each child to feel the care and warmth of a community that believes in them. Our volunteers poured genuine love into every gift, and we hope these simple acts spark joy and remind them that they matter.”
Globe Coop volunteers worked alongside RSCC staff to deliver the bundles and spend quality time with the children. Through play, shared activities, and simple conversations, the volunteers helped create an environment where the children felt welcomed and reassured.
Hearts in Hands reflects Globe Coop’s commitment to strengthening communities through compassion and collective effort. By empowering employees to uplift the lives of children in need, Globe Coop continues to help build a future where every child feels seen, cared for, and supported.
TP in the Philippines continues to strengthen its role in supporting national growth by providing opportunities and livelihood to Filipinos as one of the country’s largest private employers, currently with over 60,000 employees. The photo shows Rahul Jolly, the company’s Chief Executive Officer (standing 4th from right, back row); and Jeffrey Johnson, Chief People Officer (first from right, back row), with TP employees.
Manila, Philippines — TP(formerly Teleperformance) in the Philippines, a leader in digital business services, today announced it was named one of the top 10 World’s Best Workplaces™ in 2025 by Great Place To Work® and Fortune magazine. This is the fifth consecutive year that TP has been named to the world’s top employer list.
TP in the Philippines has approximately 60,000 employees who are part of the company’s large network of nearly 500,000 employees worldwide.
TP is among 25 global leaders in the 2025 Great Place To Work list and was selected based on rigorous analytics and confidential employee feedback. TP employees worldwide assessed the company on its efforts to create a great workplace, positively impact global communities, and how generously and thoughtfully they support employees with personalized support.
“Being recognized for the fifth consecutive year as one of the World’s Best Workplaces is a testament to the incredible people who make up TP,” said Rahul Jolly, CEO of TP in the Philippines. “This award reflects the passion, resilience, and excellence our employees bring every day, creating an environment where innovation, empathy, and personal growth thrive. As we embrace the future of work, it’s their dedication and spirit that truly define who we are and drive our success.”
TP in the Philippines Chief People Officer Jeffrey Johnson emphasizes how the organization continues to build a thriving community workforce, having been operating in the Philippines for nearly three decades. “We are deeply grateful to all our employees for making TP once again a Great Place to Work. The trust our employees place in us reinforces our commitment to nurturing a workplace where people feel valued, included, supported, and empowered to grow,” adds Johnson.
TP fosters an award-winning, people-first culture where talent and technology work together. TP’s experts are powered by emotional intelligence (EI) and enabled by artificial intelligence (AI), working in orchestration to deliver results that are faster, more personalized, and safer for clients and their customers. This is made possible through ongoing training at TP, which empowers team members to deliver superior experiences, combining human warmth with technological precision. The company also offers global leadership development programs for employees and activities to cultivate team bonding, like sports clubs and the For Fun Festival, an annual talent competition that unites thousands of employees worldwide to celebrate creativity and connection.
“The powerful impact of these great companies on our planet is a sacred trust,” said Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place To Work. “Of the more than 9 million employees surveyed, more workers at these remarkable companies say their company trusts them and wants them to grow as people and professionals. These economic powerhouses also strengthen the communities where they operate and are leaving behind a better world than the one they inherited.”
“The World’s Best Workplaces list casts an important spotlight on what employees believe are today’s exceptional workplaces, companies and organizations where they feel trusted, empowered, and energized to do their best work,” says Alyson Shontell, editor-in-chief of Fortune.
The World’s Best Workplaces™ 2025 list is just the latest accolade TP has received for its award-winning workplace culture. Earlier this year, TP received Great Place to Work® certifications in 69 countries and was recognized among the top Best Workplaces in Asia, Europe and Latin America.
Employees actively participate in company-wide advocacies that promote a culture of belonging and inclusion. Seen in the photo are TP in the Philippines employees joining this year’s Pride March organized in Quezon City.
Employees freely contribute and volunteer to TP’s community partner programs during their free time, giving them the chance to participate and give back through meaningful causes. In the photo, employees join the nationwide Brigada Eskwela campaign, which readies public school classrooms for students before the start of the school year.
ABOUT TP IN THE PHILIPPINES
Teleperformance in the Philippines is part of the TP Group, a global leader in digital business services that consistently seeks to blend the best of advanced technology with human empathy to deliver enhanced customer care that is simpler, faster, and safer for the world’s biggest brands and their customers. The Group’s comprehensive, AI-powered service portfolio ranges from front office customer care to back-office functions, including operations consulting and high-value digital transformation services. It also offers a range of specialized services such as collections, interpreting and localization, visa and consular services, and recruitment process outsourcing services. The teams of multilingual, inspired, and passionate experts and advisors, spread in close to 100 countries, as well as the Group’s local presence, allow it to be a force of good in supporting communities, clients, and the environment.
Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions company in the Asia-Pacific region, was recently recognized at the prestigious AmCham Philippines 2025 Corporate Social Impact (CSI) Awards. The company, through its entity, Helios Solar Energy Corp. (HSEC), was honored with the Bronze Award in the highly competitive Community Impact & Civic Engagement category for its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Program.
Presented by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines in partnership with the U.S. Embassy, this award underscores Vena Energy’s strong belief that its role extends beyond clean energy production to encompass holistic sustainable development within its host communities.
The Impact of Clean Water and Sanitation in Cadiz City
Implemented in partnership with the Cadiz City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the City Health Office (CHO), the WASH Program directly addresses the pressing public health issue of insufficient hygiene and sanitation infrastructure in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental.
The WASH Program highlights Vena Energy’s strategic focus on investing in essential community welfare and infrastructure and is aligned with the company’s CSR focus on Community Well-being and Infrastructure Development, directly supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
By addressing fundamental needs such as clean water and hygiene, Vena Energy shows its firm commitment to ensuring a healthy and resilient environment where its projects operate.
Cadiz City Municipal Mayor Salvador Escalante, Jr., applauded the efforts, stating, “HSEC’s generosity and commitment to creating a better future for children through the City’s Early Childhood Care Development Program are deeply appreciated, and our CSR partnership is making a significant difference and positive impact in our municipality”.
A Legacy of Local Partnership in the Philippines
This recognition reflects Vena Energy’s long-standing dedication to accelerating the energy transition and advancing green solutions in the Philippines. Its success is anchored by strong, collaborative relationships with Local Government Units (LGUs) and host communities across the country.
“Vena Energy is deeply honored to receive this award, which validates our team’s hard work and commitment to our Filipino host communities,” said Samrinder Nehria, Head of the Philippines. “As we continue to develop clean energy infrastructure to meet the national goal of 35% renewable energy share by 2030, we remain focused on our shared responsibility: building a workplace where our people feel empowered and investing in meaningful programs that advance the well-being of our community partners.”
Vena Energy’s staunch commitment to integrating internationally recognized Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards into its strategy ensures that it will continue to grow alongside the Philippines toward a cleaner and more prosperous future.
ABOUT VENA GROUP
Vena Global Group Pte Ltd (“Vena Group”) is a leading green solutions provider driving the energy and digital infrastructure transition across the Asia-Pacific region. Through its renewable energy and digital infrastructure arms, Vena Group delivers integrated, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions that enable the region’s transition to a low-carbon, AI-driven future.
Pasay City, November 12, 2025 — Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, in partnership with SM Supermalls, welcomed entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to the MSME Summit 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. The event showcased the shared commitment of Jobstreet and SM Supermalls to empower Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and foster sustainable growth for the nation’s backbone industries. Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, highlighted the summit’s goal: supporting MSMEs as a driving force of the Philippine economy.
“SM aims to be a partner in every MSME’s success story.” Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls, reinforces SM’s commitment to supporting Filipino entrepreneurs as he delivers the inspirational message and accepts a Plaque of Appreciation from Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK, during the MSME Summit held at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, on November 25, 2025.
“SM is not just a venue—it’s a partner in every MSME’s success story,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls. “When MSMEs grow, the nation grows. Every small business that thrives represents a dream realized, a livelihood sustained, and a community strengthened.” SM’s own growth story mirrors that of its MSME partners. From a small shoe store in Carriedo to 88 malls nationwide, SM understands the value of small beginnings. “Almost 70% of our tenants are MSMEs—their success is the foundation of SM’s continued growth,” San Agustin added. Through the SM for MSMEs program, the company provides high-foot-traffic spaces, market access, and visibility to help entrepreneurs scale sustainably.
Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College accepts her Plaque of Appreciation from Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet (right) by Seek Country Marketing head.
Key sessions addressed practical needs for MSMEs. Participants learned how to scale their first hire with Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet, explored AI applications for small businesses with Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College, and received insights on logistics and operations from Lalamove PH, 2GO Travel, and DITO BizBayan. Ms. Life Dawn Cervero of TikTok guided attendees on smart marketing on a budget, while a panel from BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo, and Asialink shared finance hacks for sustainable growth.
Industry experts Ms.Flor Tanay of Lalamove PH, Mr. Francis John Cha of 2GO Travel, and Mr. Gabriel Cui of DITO of BizBayan present logistics and digital solutions designed to help MSMEs scale.
MSME Summit 2025 partners BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo and Asialink host a panel learning session tackling finance hacks for MSMEs
Success stories, like Kay & Karl Santos of 1919 Chocolate, inspired participants with real-life examples of scaling Filipino businesses. Partner demos and the Partner Passport Challenge reinforced networking, learning, and practical engagement.
Attendees make their rounds at the Partner Passport Challenge, visiting different booths to learn about hiring solutions, business tools, digital platforms, and partner services that support MSME growth.
The MSME Summit 2025 reaffirmed SM Supermalls’ commitment to Filipino entrepreneurship, providing programs, spaces, and partnerships that help MSMEs innovate, scale, and thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.
MSME Summit 2025 partners BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo and Asialink host a panel learning session tackling finance hacks for MSMEs
Success stories, like Kay & Karl Santos of 1919 Chocolate, inspired participants with real-life examples of scaling Filipino businesses. Partner demos and the Partner Passport Challenge reinforced networking, learning, and practical engagement.
Attendees make their rounds at the Partner Passport Challenge, visiting different booths to learn about hiring solutions, business tools, digital platforms, and partner services that support MSME growth.
The MSME Summit 2025 reaffirmed SM Supermalls’ commitment to Filipino entrepreneurship, providing programs, spaces, and partnerships that help MSMEs innovate, scale, and thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.
About SM Supermalls – MSMEs Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls nationwide—connects communities while redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. As the country’s biggest marketplace for MSMEs, SM champions Filipino entrepreneurship—empowering small businesses, driving local growth, showcasing homegrown talent, and fueling the Filipino spirit of enterprise. Visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today.
Life’s more fun when you have more access to discovering new things. From small errands to bigger adventures, you get to enjoy the best of living when you continue to expand the things you love!
SM Supermalls brings a new era of firsts to explore and discover, with exciting brands heading your way—now closer than ever, right here in Cebu. With SM Supermalls, you no longer have to travel across regions, because the best experiences are now within reach.
Sweet & Savory at SM City Cebu
Craving for some authentic Japanese food experience? Check out the newly opened YAYOI—savor the taste of traditional Japanese Teishoku, offering a completely satisfying set meal of main entrée, steamed rice, miso soup, and seasonal sides.
Lookout for these food spots heading your way this May, serving food items you’ll love closer to you:
Manam—a celebrated Filipino bistro offering both classic and modern interpretations of traditional dishes is opening its first-in-Cebu branch this May 26.
Ooma—a modern Japanese dining spot known for its bold flavors and creative dishes, blending traditional Japanese cuisine with contemporary twists. It is opening its first-in-Cebu store this May 28.
Café Laguna—a well-established Filipino restaurant chain, renowned for its authentic Tagalog-style dishes, bringing the comforting flavors of Luzon to the Visayas, is set to open this May 8.
Abaca Baking Company—beloved Cebu-based café and bakery chain serving artisan-crafted breads, all-day breakfast offerings, and premium coffee selections, opening this May 10.
Ramen Kuroda—a popular Japanese restaurant serving authentic, high-quality ramen, crafted with homemade noodles and rich, flavorful broths.
Indoor Sports & Japanese Favorite Meals at SM J Mall
The experience of Japan continues in Mandaue City, Cebu with Yuki-Kun—savor Japanese cuisines, featuring familiar flavors and beloved dishes available at the mall’s Food Hall area.
Expect more fun soon with even more First in Cebu experiences:
Ramen Nagi—authentic, customizable ramen bowls featuring rich, savory soup and handcrafted noodles, because your J Mall experience isn’t complete without a sizzling bowl of this Japanese favorite.
iSwing Golf Arena—enjoy a round of golf without the scorching heat of the sun, all thanks to their indoor, high-tech golf simulation experience.
Coffee & Treats at SM Seaside City Cebu
Satisfy your sweet cravings with these new dessert and dining destinations opening their first stores in Cebu:
Beard Papa’s—Japanese cream puff chain known for its freshly baked choux pastries, which opened last April 25.
Conti’s—the Filipino bakeshop beloved for its iconic cake specials and signature comforting savory dishes, opened its first-in-Cebu store last April 30.
Giving coffee lovers more to look forward to, the rapidly growing Pickup Coffee headlines their upcoming first-in-SM premium café concept, offering elevated brews perfect for a productive lifestyle.
Never run out of things to add to your itinerary. Explore beyond limits and discover exciting firsts here in Cebu with SM Supermalls.
Expand your horizons here in Cebu—only here at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.
Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!
This month marks a new chapter for Davao as SM Supermalls welcomes a bold new era with evolving finds just for you.
SM City Davao, the first and largest SM mall in Mindanao, opens its Expansion Building bringing fresh urban experiences for every Davaoeño. From Insta-worthy dining scenes to stylish hangouts, every spot is designed to be pure feed goals.
With over 120,000 sqm of added space, this is more than an expansion—it’s an evolving destination made for shopping, style, and leisure to come together in ways you’ve never seen before. All to show that here at SM Supermalls, we truly got it all for you.
Dining Hotspots Ready to Serve You
Hungry? You’re in for a culinary treat as we bring you a lineup of handpicked restaurants serving everything from casual fine dining to comforting Filipino classics and bold Singaporean flavors.
Brique – If there’s one thing our bisaya brothers from Cebu know best, it’s good food! Bringing their distinctly Cebuano flavors for the first time in Davao, Brique—soon to open at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion—combines modern cuisine with a provincial touch that’ll fondly remind you of nanay’s home cooking.
Nanyang – For the first time in Davao, get the best of what Singapore has to offer. Serving some of Southeast Asia’s finest delicacies, Nanyang at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion, delivers hearty dishes that cater to the Filipino palate. From aromatic Laksa to savory Curry Chicken Rice, the possibilities are endless.
The Joy of Fluffiness
Making its first mark in Davao, Puffy’s is bringing its signature charm to the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion. Known for its cloud-like soufflé pancakes, this sweet spot is the newest must-try in SM Supermall’s irresistibly crave-worthy lineup. Whether you go for Original, Crème Brûlée, or Tiramisu, every bite is delightfully light and perfectly Instagrammable!
Your Unique Finds
Looking to add a little more everyday flair? From customizing your Aquaflask tumbler to finally grabbing that self-help book you’ve been eyeing—or even spotting that one item you didn’t know you needed—discover a specially chosen mix of finds to make your every visit more exciting.
Aquaflask – Find their newest designs at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion and drink in style! Now fully customizable, these vacuum-insulated bottles let you enjoy your cold or hot drinks anywhere without breaking the bank.
Gashapon Bandai – Collect high-quality gacha toys, keychains, and accessories while having a bit of thrill—or dismay—with the first Gashapon Bandai in Davao at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion. From Dragon Ball and Gundam to Demon Slayer and Pokémon, just pop a coin into these vending machines and score a surprise collectible.
Fully Booked – For the first time in Davao, a true bookworm’s haven awaits. Find your next great read as you experience a warm, cozy ambiance here at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion. Featuring a wide selection of books across various genres—including hard-to-find titles—Fully Booked is a true bibliophile haven.
Flying Tiger – In search of unique knick-knacks and quirky finds? For the first time in Davao, Flying Tiger at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion is the novelty store for you. Liven up your living space and personalize your room with their playful crafts, trinkets, and ornaments.
Level Up Your Style
Who says activewear has to be drab? For the first time in Davao, Anta at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion lets you turn the gym into your personal runway. Featuring a premium sports line of ready-to-wear apparel, trainers, and bags, it’s everything you need to break a sweat—in style!
From crave-worthy food hubs and fashion finds to accessories and quirky trinkets, every corner is made to make your feed more aesthetic. No matter how you spend your time, enjoy curated experiences not just to enjoy, but to share, only here in this #NewEraOfSMSupermalls.
Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit http://www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!
Manila, Philippines — At SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), water stewardship has come a long way since its early initiatives. As part of its environmental sustainability strategy, the programmatic Water for Tomorrow campaign looks beyond water recycling and efficient water management.
For SM Supermalls, this urgent call to action to protect and preserve a valuable resource makes any large-scale investment in water security a sound opportunity to do good for both people and planet.
SM Southmall in the late 90’s. Located in the water-challenged area of Las Pinas, the mall was the first to have a sewage treatment plant (STP) for water recycling. It opened to the public in 1995, followed by SM Bacoor in 1997, saving a significant volume of water otherwise used for flushing.
Amplified impact
With 89 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls’ high-impact yet practical water management systems and circularity practices build long-term capacity for future water disruptions and reflect the malls’ greater ecosystem.
A community solution. At the launch of SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility (RTF), innovation meets sustainability, setting a benchmark for water efficiency.
Having introduced sewage treatment plants nearly three decades ago, well before any compliance requirements, SM Supermalls also made significant investments in efficient low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies to prevent unnecessary consumption at scale. In 2023, the first rainwater treatment facility by a mall opened in Baguio to convert rainwater into another potable resource, alleviating pressure on the local water grid.
At a cultural level, SM Supermalls becomes a living sustainability classroom where mallgoers, employees, and tenant-partners are made aware of its water, waste, and energy programs. Partnerships with NGOs, government agencies, and civic groups also sustain water conversations through the mall’s broad reach and are crucial to the sustainability agenda.
SM Cares engages communities, mallgoers, and tenants in water conservation initiatives that inspire mindful consumption and collective action.
Embedding the message of water sustainability, SM Cares champions UN SDG6 – using every mall touchpoint and social media to create content on water conservation, access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene for health and well-being
Water sustainability is a shared responsibility across all SM malls. SM Cares engages and promotes water conservation initiatives that inspire mindful consumption and collective action.
As a vital community hub, the malls promote the wider SM Green Movement campaign, empowering people to practice responsible water use.
The first mall to receive LEED Gold Certification in 2017, SM Aura’s wastewater treatment plant and smart water management technologies ensure responsible and efficient water use.
Building what matters, today
Water’s essential role supports human activity and economic growth. As climate concerns accelerate and affect water supply, SM Prime’s unified stance on water stewardship prepares for challenges ahead.
SM Supermalls not only assists larger partner-tenants with compliance and the bottom line. It similarly inspires smaller businesses and other stakeholders that depend on mall operations to adopt innovative solutions.
“The scale of what we are doing today for water is already proof that we are reaping the benefits of the innovative vision of our leadership,” says Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls.
“What makes our programs truly meaningful is how they bring people and purpose together. It creates a ripple effect of sustainability that reaches beyond our walls,” said Tan. ###
This month, Metro Cebu welcomes you with feel-good flavors, playful finds, and cozy new spots to enjoy. With the long weekends giving more time to unwind, it’s the perfect chance to explore something new—whether you’re craving a quick bite, refreshing your routine, or simply slowing down.
In this bold new era of SM Supermalls, evolving finds are waiting for you–where everything is thoughtfully chosen to match the way you live from hanging out with friends to relaxing solo. From dining to lifestyle, these new experiences are here to make everyday moments in the spaces you already love even more special, because we truly got it all for you here at SM Supermalls.
Where Delight Awaits You in SM City Cebu
In the heart of the city, SM City Cebu keeps things exciting with spaces and experiences that feel fresh. Its expanded mix features curated brands, exceptional dining, and premium finds—all handpicked to fit the way you shop, connect, and relax. From carefully selected lifestyle picks to specially chosen finds, here are a few worth checking out to make your next visit even more memorable.
Smart Home Innovations
Dyson – This first in Cebu is ready to turn your everyday chore into something you’ll actually look forward to! Step into a world of sleek design and smart technology here at SM City Cebu—where tasks, from cleaning to hairstyling, will feel less like a chore and more like a treat. From effortless hair styling to powerful home must-haves, we’re all about making your life smoother, smarter, and a little more stylish.
Italian Favorites
Cibo – Craving the kind of comfort only a perfectly twirled forkful of pasta can give? We’ve got you. At Cibo in SM City Cebu, you’ll find Italian classics made the way they should be—fresh, flavorful, and timeless. From hearty pastas and wood-fired pizzas to refreshing salads and signature desserts, consider your taste buds officially on a holiday—no passport required!
Bookworm Picks
Fully Booked x Kinokuniya – Open a new chapter at the Second Level of SM City Cebu with the first-ever Fully Booked x Kinokuniya in Cebu. Step into a world of stories and ideas—where Japanese-language titles, bestselling novels, and timeless classics meet creative journals, unique stationery, and lifestyle treasures. Every shelf invites you to discover something new, spark your imagination, and take inspiration home with you.
Your Gateway to the Unexpected at SM Seaside City Cebu
With its stunning seaside views, SM Seaside City Cebu sets the stage for experiences that feel a little out of the ordinary. From standout dining with breathtaking backdrops to unique stores and activities that will make your long weekend even more exciting, each stop is here to bring something unexpected to your day. Check out these picks worth discovering on your next day out.
Authentic Bites
Co. Limited – Craving a little thrill on your plate? The wait is over—Co. Limited is bringing the vibrant flavors and energy of Thai street food to Cebu for the very first time. Opening September 30 at SM City Cebu, get ready to savor bold bites and an experience you won’t forget. With a fresh pairing of elevated touches, every bite is chosen to keep your taste buds on their toes, from zesty salads to sizzling stir-fries! Peep this crave-worthy eat at the Upper Ground Level, Seaview Wing.
Style Stop
Issy – Effortless beauty makes its first mark in Cebu at the Second Level, Seaview Wing—bringing makeup and skincare essentials that are easy to use, versatile, and endlessly chic. From everyday staples to bold statement shades, each piece is chosen to let you play, experiment, and discover your own kind of glow.
From flavorful firsts to lifestyle picks, Cebu’s newest experiences are here to bring you more curated ways to enjoy your day. Whether it’s a day out with friends or a quick solo trip, there’s something new waiting for you here in this #NewEraOfSMSupermalls.
Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit http://www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!
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#NewEraOfSMSupermalls All For You At SM Supermalls, a bold New Era unfolds with Evolving Finds—bringing together the best in brands, dining, and experiences, all for you. From world-class cuisine and exclusive retail treasures to inspiring spaces that connect communities, SM continues to evolve to give you the very best of everything in one place.
As we grow, our commitment to sustainability, community empowerment, and creating memorable moments remains at the heart of everything we do. Because at SM, we’ve got it all for you.
Cebuana Lhuillier has officially named Zacarias Mansing Jr., a passionate literacy and disability inclusion advocate, as the 2025 Happiest Pinoy. His remarkable journey of transforming personal adversity into a nationwide mission for children’s literacy resonated deeply across the country. Selected from more than 500,000 entries, his win marks one of the most extraordinary achievements in the history of Cebuana Lhuillier’s pioneering advocacy.
The awarding ceremony, held last December 2 at Dusit Thani Manila, highlighted the depth and diversity of this year’s competition. Zacarias first emerged as one of the ten national category winners before advancing to the final round, where he stood alongside inspiring finalists representing youth and senior citizens, entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities, OFWs, members of the workforce, the LGBTQ+ community, creatives, indigenous peoples, and Cebuana Lhuillier clients.
A distinguished panel of judges—comprising public servants, media professionals, social innovators, athletes, and former Happiest Pinoy awardees—evaluated the finalists through a comprehensive process rooted in four criteria: Resilience; Optimism and Genuine Happiness; Champion of Hope and Impact; and an X-Factor reflecting authenticity.
Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier Inc., emphasized the significance of Zacarias’s win: “Zacarias reminds us that true strength is not the absence of hardship but the courage to lift others as we rise. His life—rooted in faith, grit, and service—captures exactly what the Happiest Pinoy seeks to celebrate: joy that transforms communities and inspires lasting change.”
Zacarias’s story is a testament to that strength. After an accident abroad in 2012 left him paralyzed, he returned home determined to turn his challenges into purpose. Guided by his DRISO values—Determination, Resilience, Inspiration, Service, and Optimism—he launched the Books for Kids Project in 2017. From his wheelchair, he has traveled to more than 300 remote public schools and reached over 50,000 students, championing literacy, disability inclusion, and hope across Negros Oriental. “Being a Happiest Pinoy is about having a spirit that trusts God in all circumstances, and hands that are always ready to reach out to those in need,” he shared.
Zacarias’s triumph is more than a personal victory—it is a powerful reminder that purpose can emerge from pain, and that one person’s resolve can ignite lasting change. His work continues to inspire communities, uplift young learners, and strengthen the movement that Cebuana Lhuillier began: a celebration of joy that endures, heals, and transforms.
Philippine Updates 