Pasay City, Philippines — Readers and supporters of inspiring leadership are invited to a special magazine signing event featuring George Erwin Mojica Garcia, Chairman of the Commission on Elections, and Glenda V. Hufano, Past District Governor of Kiwanis International, Philippine Luzon District.
The event will take place today, March 10, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at National Book Store, located at SM Mall of Asia.
Organized by TopNewsAsia and Rising Tigers Magazine, the gathering offers readers a rare opportunity to meet two distinguished leaders featured in the publications. The magazine signing will be led by Editor-in-Chief Grace Bondad Nicolas, who continues to champion stories of leadership, governance, and community service through the magazine’s platforms.
During the event, guests will have the opportunity to interact with the featured personalities through a question-and-answer segment, providing insights into Chairman Garcia’s leadership in the country’s electoral system and Hufano’s work in community development through Kiwanis.
The magazine signing aims to bring readers closer to the individuals shaping governance and civic service in the Philippines while celebrating the power of storytelling in print media.
Supporters, readers, and members of the public are encouraged to attend and take part in this engaging afternoon of dialogue, inspiration, and exclusive magazine signing.
Event Details: Date: March 10, 2026 Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Venue: National Book Store, SM Mall of Asia
For media inquiries and event details, please contact the organizers of TopNewsAsia and Rising Tigers Magazine at +63 977 897 8877 or president@tagmedia.asia
New Year calls for a bigger, bolder start and blazing-hot adventures. Saying goodbye to 2025 and stepping into a clean slate—while bittersweet- is undeniably exciting, and SM Supermalls is here to ensure you begin the year in the most elevated and exhilarating way possible.
Let’s welcome 2026 together with a show-stopping tour of the latest crown jewel in Cebuano shopping: SM J Mall. From flash-worthy finds to lifestyle upgrades that make noise, this carefully curated lineup of must-haves is guaranteed to satisfy your bold, ever-evolving taste. Let’s all set the New Year ablaze with fiery new energy and explosive possibilities!
Trendy Finds and Explosive Surprises
With its vibrant interiors and shelves bursting with everything your heart desires, the newly opened KKV is not just a lifestyle hub—it’s a full-on treasure hunt waiting to happen. Bring your friends and wander through endless aisles of trendy must-haves, from makeup and skincare to delicious snacks and tech accessories. Who knows? You might just score the perfect little gem to kick off the New Year with a bang!
Megawatt Glam For The New Year
Step into the new year with an ultra-glamorous pair of shoes from Clube Melissa. Strut with newfound confidence and flair in jelly flats, heels, and sandals that combine cosmopolitan style with unmatched durability. With shoes this fierce and sturdy, you’re sure to treasure them for many years to come.
Full Charge Into The Year
Charge up the hype with WIWU! From power banks to cables, to hundreds of quirky, eye-catching mobile accessories—you can flex your own unique style while keeping your tech last longer than a New Year’s Eve party.
Cue The Sweet Explosion
Make every handaan boom-worthy with a mind-blowingly delicious cake from Conti’s. Featuring their signature Pistachio Crunch, Mango Bravo, and other irresistible pasalubong favorites, it’s no wonder Conti’s is every Filipino’s go-to for a show-stopping celebration centerpiece.
Carmen’s Best
Something sweet is finally here. Carmen’s Best is now open, bringing its signature handcrafted ice cream made with rich, high-quality ingredients. From timeless favorites to indulgent flavors, this new spot promises to add a delicious twist to your mall visits.
New Stores For Amped-up Fun
Aside from our all-time favorites, we’ve got even more in store for you this 2026! In just a few months, these much-awaited shops will open their doors to the public, giving you and your family even more jaw-droppingly fun spots to explore, shop, and enjoy.
UGreen
Juice up your 2026 with UGreen, your soon-to-open top tech spot designed to keep all your celebratory moments on all your gadgets. From fast chargers to hubs and power banks, their reliable accessories will make sure every device never falters all year long.
WATCHprofile
Countdown’s on! Unlock WATCHprofile in just a few months and customize watches and digital timepieces—because the moments don’t stop when New Year’s Eve ends.
Wilson
Serve up explosive gameplay at the soon-to-open Wilson. With high-performance tennis, basketball, and baseball gear, you’ll be setting serious sports standards with their must-have athletic essentials.
Repeat after us: 2026 is YOUR year to thrive! As your taste continues to evolve, leave the past behind and step into a bolder, brighter “new you” era—powered by SM Supermalls’ handpicked finds. With SM as your guide, we’re bringing all the spark, style, and excitement you need to own the year.
And with even more hotly anticipated stores opening at SM J Mall, there are more reasons than ever to shop. Go ahead—let SM Supermalls elevate and ignite your New Year… and beyond!
The locals of the Queen City of the South know how to have a good time—it’s practically in their DNA. Cebuanos are known for their energetic, passionate, yet irresistibly sweet disposition, and this is never more evident than in their loud, lively, and unapologetically fun New Year celebrations—and in festivities all throughout the calendar year.
With 2026 officially here, SM Seaside City Cebu and SM City Cebu are cranking the party all the way up with not-to-be-missed experiences perfect for explosive feasts and wildly entertaining gatherings. Bring out that fiery Bisaya spirit in you, and dare to live an elevated lifestyle with these must-try, Cebufied activities.
Must-Do #1: Go Full Kikay This 2026!
Upgrading your outfit is sure to be a doozy with these kikay-cute finds from these fabulous stores. With a stunning collection of accessories and trend-driven bags, you’ll feel absolutely gwapa from the very start of the year all the way to the end!
Bagel Girl
Step into the New Year with Cebuano flair at Bagel Girl, on the 2nd Level of the Seaview Wing at SM Seaside City Cebu. Pile on the sparkle, play with the shine, and finish every look with jewelry and hair accessories made for celebrating loud, proud, and in style. From street parties to family gatherings, bring that unmistakable Cebuano energy wherever the night takes you.
House of Little Bunny Pop-up Store
Start 2026 the Cebuano way by looking effortless, put-together, and ready for anything by hopping on to the House of Little Bunny Pop-up Store in SM City Cebu’s North Wing. Whether you’re out for celebrations or on the go all year long, these are pieces made to carry you through 2026 in style.
Must-Do #2: Trimmed For Tiny Perfection
Cebuanos like to start things light, easy, and with plenty of smiles. That’s exactly what your little one gets at Cuts 4 Tots on the 2nd Level, City Wing of SM Seaside City Cebu—the first in VisMin. This kid-friendly salon guarantees a stress-free haircut that can keep your kids comfy, confident, and camera-ready all year long.
Must Do #3: Family Fun Awaits
Once your tot has had the perfect little snip, it’s time for some much-needed family bonding. Nothing says ‘fun!’ quite like a fun-filled day at Fantasy World, at SM Seaside City Cebu, located at the Lower Ground Level, Cube Wing. The biggest one yet to open in VisMin, it features a wide array of attractions—from unique games to interactive activities like Simulated Golf and Double Fun Arcade.
Must-Do #4: Upgrade Every Feast and Festivity
Craving for something besides the usual Talisay lechon? Head over to these awesome restaurants instead to shake things up. Serving some of the most mouthwatering meals this side of Cebu, you and your family will be screaming kalami all the way home!
Herbs & Cellar
Cebuanos like their food bold, familiar, and worth coming back for. Ease into the year with a flavor-packed meal at Herbs & Cellar in the North Wing of SM City Cebu. With a fusion-forward menu that gives comfort favorites like sisig and fish and chips a clever twist, it’s the kind of place that keeps things exciting while still feeling just right for local tastes.
Samgyupsalamat
The best way to welcome what’s next is around a table full of food. Say daghang salamat to satisfying, savory favorites at Samgyupsalamat in the North Wing of SM City Cebu. With Korean-style grilling, Filipino flavors, and unlimited marinated meats and sides, it’s the kind of feast made for sharing, celebrating, and lingering a little longer.
Tavolàta
In Cebu, starting strong means sitting down and enjoying great food. That’s why Tavolàta in SM City Cebu’s North Wing offers a feast that shouldn’t be missed. From handmade pastas to hearth-baked pizzas, its warm, inviting Italian fare sets just the right tone for a year meant to be enjoyed.
Super Bowl of China
When the celebration slows down but appetites are still big, Super Bowl of China is the perfect pick. Enjoy comforting Chinese favorites paired with warm, personal service—something that truly resonates with Filipinos who love gathering, dining, and celebrating with friends and family. Find the first VisMin branch at SM City Cebu, North Wing.
Must-Do #5: End on a Sweet Note with Bisaya Brews And Bites
Once the entrée is done, it’s time to treat yourself to dessert and refreshments. A typical Cebuano celebration isn’t complete without a premium brew and a sugary delight that hits just the right spot. For an high-end coffee-and-confectionery experience that’s as sweet as your palangga, make your way to these stellar cafés and pastry shops.
Good Habits Coffee
When the celebrations wind down but the night isn’t over, there’s always time for one more cup. Drop by Good Habits Coffee at the North Wing of SM City Cebu and settle in. With a cozy, homey space and freshly brewed coffee, it’s an easy place to stay up a little longer—whether you’re catching up, getting work done, or just enjoying the quiet before the year fully kicks in.
Beard Papa’s
After all that celebration, there’s always room for something sweet. Swing by Beard Papa’s at the North Wing of SM City Cebu and treat yourself to their famous cream puffs—filled with rich chocolate, ube, honey butter, and other seasonal flavors. They’re light, indulgent, and tempting enough to make even puto and tikoy wait their turn.
Family, food, and fun—that’s what Cebuanos do best! And this rings especially true during the advent of the year. Throttle in at SM Supermalls fully and elevate your lifestyle with our carefully curated lineup of explosive finds to lead you into a whole new era this 2026.
Let the craziness, color, and chaos of Cebu dazzle and wow the start of the year—and let’s keep the party going right till the very end. Malipayong Bag-ong Tuig!
As the new year opens, SM Supermalls reaffirms its commitment to Filipino job seekers by welcoming 2026 with renewed energy, bigger opportunities, and a proven track record of impact through its nationwide Job Fair program.
Building on a landmark 2025, SM Job Fairs have evolved beyond traditional recruitment events into a full-scale career ecosystem—bringing together employers, job seekers, skills training, and government services in one accessible, community-based platform.
Massive crowd of job seekers during Labor Day Job Fairs at SM City Bacolod (left photo) and SM Mall of Asia (right photo).
A Strong 2025 Performance, By the Numbers
In 2025 alone, SM Supermalls hosted 198 job fairs nationwide, connecting over 117,000 job seekers with more than 6,000 employers across industries. These efforts resulted in 15,000+ hired on the spot, proving that accessible, purpose-driven platforms can deliver real employment outcomes at scale.
Beyond hiring, SM Job Fairs expanded their impact through partnerships with key government agencies, embedding skills training, digital upskilling, and on-site services directly into job fair venues—helping future-proof Filipino workers while removing barriers to employment.
Reputable and prestigious employers from PMAP’s network, like BDO, Coca-Cola, and SM Supermalls, open doors to job seekers during the two-day career event at SM City North EDSA.
Zamboanga City Opens the Year with an Exclusive Job Fair
Leading SM’s 2026 kickoff is SM City Zamboanga, set to host an exclusive Job Fair on January 16–17, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Zamboanga City Coliseum.
Held in partnership with the Public Employment Service Office – Zamboanga City (PESO) and the Department of Labor and Employment Region IX (DOLE IX), the two-day event will feature over 400 job openings from more than 20 employers in retail, food and beverage, customer service, operations, and support services.
With the empowering call to action—“Start strong. Findwhat fits. Your future begins at SM”—the job fair invites applicants to explore career opportunities aligned with their skills, passions, and long-term goals.
To ensure a smoother experience, online pre-registration isnow open, with strong early interest already recorded. The upcoming job fair is expected to welcome over 5,000 applicants, with more than 4,000 registrants already signed up through PESO as of this week.
As Zamboanga City continues to grow as a regional economic hub, the SM City Zamboanga Job Fair serves as a vital platform for employment generation, workforce development, and public-private collaboration—supporting inclusive growth in the region.
More Opportunities This Year
With strong momentum from 2025, and a packed calendar ahead, SM Job Fairs begin 2026 ready to connect more Filipinos to meaningful work—one opportunity, one community, and one future at a time.
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) continues to lead the way in sustainable property development, delivering low-carbon office spaces and climate-smart retail environments through energy efficiency initiatives, on-site renewable solutions, and strategic long-term partnerships.
A sustainable future for all. The iconic SM Mall of Asia, the world’s 6th largest mall, has become a sustainable retail shopping destination. Its physical and economic resilience stands as a testament to SM Prime’s commitment to sustainable business strategies.
From efficiency to impact
SM Prime has implemented programs such as lighting upgrades, improved air conditioning and ventilation systems (ACVS), and optimized building management systems since the 1990s —significantly reducing emissions, proving that energy efficiency delivers environmental and economic benefits. In 2024, SM Supermalls reduced electricity use by 38%, avoiding 156,736 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and saving ₱2.3 billion.
In the recently concluded 5th Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards of the Department of Energy (DOE), SM Prime’s business units, namely, SM Supermalls, SM Offices, and SM Hotels, were awarded multiple Certificates of Excellence.
This success reflects collaboration among engineering teams, service providers, tenants, and customers, driven by the company’s leadership and commitment to the SM Green Movement.
Renewable energy milestones
Guided by its goal of Net Zero by 2040, SM Prime is making decarbonization practical, reliable, and scalable. At SM City North Edsa, it recently celebrated a milestone for clean energy in the country, with 59 properties generating a combined 100 megawatts (MW) of on-site renewable energy—one of the largest solar capacities among property developers in the Philippines.
A historic 100MW milestone. At SM North Edsa, Quezon City, the first Philippine mall to utilize clean energy with rooftop solar photovoltaic systems, continues to deliver SM Prime’s people-centric, sustainable retail spaces.
Today, more than 50% of energy use across SM Supermalls comes from renewable sources, supported by partnerships with Aboitiz Renewables, TotalEnergies, Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation, and leading solar providers. This collaborative approach empowers communities while building a safer and more sustainable future.
Working with WWF-Philippines, SM Prime has committed to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and is working towards its near and long-term targets.
Retail architecture working with nature
At the heart of SM Prime’s energy strategy is the creation of sustainable, resilient spaces that enrich experiences for the community. Across its malls, SM integrates passive design elements—high ceilings, large atriums, skylights, open spaces, and natural ventilation—reducing daytime energy consumption while offering brighter, breezier, and more welcoming spaces for relaxation, dining, and shopping.
Technology meets nature. In SM City East Ortigas, natural light brightens the food hall, and retrofitted lighting produces significant energy savings.
Smart solutions, such as motion-sensor escalators, solar-powered outdoor spaces, and energy-conscious cooling systems, make SM Supermalls a top retail destination for both tenant-partners and customers.
Shared climate benefits for all
“Customer expectations evolve quickly. When our leaders first initiated this project, it was in the early days of learning about the impact of our consumption on the planet. Now, brands – whether big luxury labels or small and medium enterprises – are looking for partners who invest in circularity and ESG impacts,” said SM Supermalls president Steven Tan.
As SM Prime continues to scale its energy programs, its SM Green Movement builds a resilient energy infrastructure to create a safe, comfortable, and welcoming space for its communities.
“We are committed to making our malls as energy efficient as possible by implementing advanced technologies and best practices. SM Supermalls will keep expanding its sustainability efforts to reduce environmental impact and improve the quality of life for both the planet and the communities we serve,” said Tan.
Celebrate love and luck this Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day
This February, SM Supermalls brings together two of the most joyful occasions of the season—Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day—for a month-long celebration that’s all about love, luck, and unforgettable experiences. Welcome the Year of the Horse with festive finds, romantic moments, and prosperity-filled activities designed to make every visit extra meaningful!
Discover love and luck at the Lucky Feels Bazaar (February 1–28)
Step into the heart of the celebration at the Lucky Feels Bazaar, a unified Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day pop-up bazaar that blends romance and prosperity in one exciting space.
Whether you are looking for gift ideas perfect for expressing love or just exploring lucky charms, trinkets, and prosperity-themed finds to attract good fortune for the year ahead, this is where heartfelt gestures meet auspicious beginnings—all in one stroll!
Step into festive photo-worthy Lucky Feels installations (February 1-28)
Get into the celebration the moment you arrive as SM Supermalls transforms with vibrant Lucky Feels installations. Enjoy romantic Valentine’s spots (February 1–15) early in the month, then watch the mall shift into bold and joyful Chinese New Year themes (February 16–28) as the celebration continues. Walk through eye-catching entrance arches, spot playful entrance stickers, admire festive hanging decorations, and strike a pose at curated photo spots.
Shop, snack, and play at Bites and Buys (February 1–28)
Experience a marketplace that’s anything but ordinary at Bites and Buys. This lively space brings together artisanal crafts, cutesy collectibles, and yummy treats loved by Gen Zs and trend hunters alike. Join the fun by trying the claw machines and score a chance to win your zodiac bestie—because luck should always come with a little play.
Capture and Snap the Lucky Feels (February 1–28)
Don’t miss theSnap the Lucky Feels photo spot, featuring a vibrant money tree adorned with ang paos, beautifully paired with a Valentine’s Day-inspired setup! It’s the perfect backdrop to capture moments of love, luck, and festive joy—ready for sharing with friends and family.
Taste and trend with #CNYMustTry (February 16–28)
From tikoy to TikTok, celebrate Chinese New Year the modern way with#CNYMustTry. Indulge in classics such as dumplings, tanghulu, milktea, and more. It’s your go-to guide for celebrating traditions—on your table and on your feed!
Experience even more festive fun at select SM malls
At select SM malls, the celebration doesn’t stop at shopping and photo moments—it comes alive through a series of exciting activities designed to spark joy, luck, and shared experiences. Feel the festive energy as dragon and lion dance performances, led by a charming dragon and lion, bring movement and music to the mall on Feb 17 / 20-22.
Extend the fun online by trying the Fortune Filter on TikTok from February 1–28 and discover what kind of luck awaits you this season. Back at the mall, test your skills and your fortune at
The Unlock Lock games are happening on February 17–22, where exciting prizes await lucky winners.
For family-friendly moments and photo-worthy encounters, don’t miss the Chinese mascot meet and greet, perfect for creating cheerful memories with loved ones. Cap off the celebration with a spectacular finale as the sky lights up during theCNY 2026 fireworks, ending the season on a high and lucky note.
Feel the love. Chase the luck. Celebrate it all at SM Supermalls.
Make this season extra special by celebrating where love, luck, and community come together. Visit your most loved SM Mall, experience the Lucky Feels, and create memories worth sharing.
Leap into lucky vibes this Year of the Horse—only at SM Supermalls!
For the full schedule of activities and participating malls, visit www.smsupermalls.com. Or, you can follow @SMSupermalls on social media for the latest updates, must-try finds, and festive surprises.
Truly embodying the Cyberzone #TechWeLikeZoneWeLove promise, we’re continuing to make responsible tech disposal easy and accessible, right where people already are: inside SM Supermalls.
Cyberzone, in partnership with SM Cares, helps turn e-waste disposal into a simple, safer habit through dedicated drop-off points rolled out nationwide in partnership with Smart Communications and PLDT Home, beginning in June 2024.
Across participating SM Supermalls, these collection bins give mallgoers a clear, accessible place to drop off old gadgets and broken electronics that are in need of proper disposal. Instead of ending up in drawers or landfills, e-waste can be responsibly handled through a system designed for everyday convenience and better environmental discipline.
14,327 kg Properly Collected and Segregated
Since the partnership began, Cyberzone’s E-Waste Collection Drop Boxes have helped gather 14,327 kg of electronic waste across 89 SM Supermalls, 69 of which are located in the Cyberzone area. This ensures materials are properly collected and segregated for responsible handling. Serving as a reflection on the growing community habit made easier through clear drop-off points and a consistent, accessible mall experience.
“We take pride in being the go-to tech destination for shoppers,” said Patrick Pacla, Vice President for Cyberzone Operations and Marketing at SM Supermalls. “But as gadgets evolve, so does the need to dispose of old electronics responsibly. Everyone has a role to play, and Cyberzone is committed to making it simpler and safer to do the right thing, so tech does not end up harming the planet.”
Curious about what happens to your broken and old devices after dropping them in e-waste collection bins at Cyberzone and SM Supermalls? Watch this video: https://youtu.be/jSsJkP8rGMQ?si=6a4tu1LL2oQBFWBY
Sustainability Built to Grow Through Partnerships
Our dedication to responsible tech consumption is built for the long run. Cyberzone and SM Cares, together with Smart Communications and PLDT Home, will continue expanding e-waste collection bins as new malls open. Today, drop-off points are available in Cyberzone branches and SM Supermalls, helping move communities closer to an #SMWasteFreeFuture.
For updates, follow SM Cyberzone on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
And for immersive tech experiences and always something exciting to discover, Cyberzone #TechWeLikeZoneWeLove keeps you on the loop, in-store and online.
Since its launch, the SM Green Movement has demonstrated the power of strategic, collective action in effectively tackling environmental challenges to achieve one goal–the protection and preservation of the planet’s resources for present and future generations.
Even before the industry mandate on sustainability, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) recognized that meaningful sustainability can only be achieved through long-term, consistent, community-driven efforts. This understanding guided the development of programs designed to evolve alongside stakeholder priorities and shareholder responsibilities.
Leveraging the scale and reach of its nationwide network of supermalls, SM Prime embedded sustainability efforts within mall operations, actively engaging customers, tenants, and communities in its environmental journey.
This “micro to macro” approach strengthened the SM Green Movement, unifying efforts under a practical and scalable framework built on three core pillars of environmental action: waste management, water stewardship, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.
“What began as simple actions—reducing waste, conserving water, and adopting cleaner energy—has grown into an interconnected ecosystem involving partners, tenants, employees, and millions of mallgoers nationwide,” said Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing. “By turning everyday habits into systemic results, the SM Green Movement extends beyond corporate spaces and into the heart of Filipino communities.”
Focusing on three core pillars: Water, Waste, and Energy
At the core of the waste pillar, SM works closely with recycling partners and SM GUUN — the circularity platform of the SM Green Movement — to divert paper, plastics, multi-layer packaging, compostables, and other materials away from landfills and back into productive use.
SM Prime’s water stewardship is anchored in long-term water management systems and conservation practices that promote a water-resilient future. SM Supermalls pioneered water recycling in retail spaces, with early sewage treatment plants and low-flow fixtures that reduced consumption across properties.
Energy management is another cornerstone of the SM Green Movement, where efficiency and renewable generation converge to reduce environmental impact while enhancing comfort and reliability in SM properties. The 100MWp celebrations in SM City North Edsa are a milestone of the program’s expansion of solar generation capacity across malls nationwide — a visible demonstration of how clean energy supports both climate action and everyday mall experiences.
Shared Responsibility, Lasting Impact
What unites these three pillars is the belief that sustainability thrives when communities are invited into the conversation and, when scaled collectively, can reshape systems. For SM Prime, sustainability is not just a corporate mandate but a shared journey that requires awareness, participation, and collective action.
With measurable progress, growing partnerships, and visible results across waste, water, and energy portfolios, the SM Green Movement is laying the foundation for lasting change, one where sustainability becomes part of everyday life for Filipinos and communities across the archipelago.
“The SM Green Movement reflects our vision to scale simple, everyday acts into systemic impact,” said San Agustin. “By advancing energy, water, and waste initiatives together in our malls, we safeguard communities and build a more sustainable future.”
Pickleball continues to find its home in SM Supermalls.
Through the SM Sports and Lifestyle Center (SLC), SM expands its permanent pickleball court locations to SM Center Shaw and SM Center Muntinlupa, giving the all-inclusive sport, its athletes, and enthusiasts even more venues for their next friendly or competitive matches. Because of this, SM closed 2025 with 61 court locations across the Philippines with 37 total permanent courts—the largest among mall operators.
SM empowers the thriving local pickleball scene with maxed-out sports experiences for picklers and the active lifestyle community nationwide. Through its launch of SM Active Hub, the country’s largest sports playground, which partnered with SM SLC’s mission of revolutionizing fitness and sports engagement in the country, it encourages tournament play, friendly competition, and fun bonding moments.
“SM launched SM Active Hub in March last year with the strong intention of giving athletes, sports enthusiasts, and even casual players alike high-quality and easily accessible spaces that can house their best sports experiences—whether that’s lighthearted fun or high adrenaline competition,” said Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing. “Closing 2025 with our largest pickleball court locations while adding two new permanent courts in SM Center Shaw and SM Center Muntinlupa in Metro Manila is evidence that sports remains not just a strong interest, but a new way of life for our customers.”
Opened in partnership with Paloo, the pickleball court locations of SM Center Shaw and SM Center Muntinlupa boast three outdoor and four indoor permanent courts, respectively, both intuitively designed to accommodate experienced and novice players, with accessible rates.
The Home of Elevated Sports Experiences
Through Active Hub, SM gave local picklers the ultimate spot to maximize movement and active lifestyles, meeting the athletic appetite of customers through its modular court approach. With the integration of the SM Malls Online app, players can easily sign up to be part of the community, discover upcoming events, and gain exclusive access to the best deals that maximize experiences they’ll love.
“On top of the permanent courts, we also have 24 semi-permanent courts all over the country to accommodate the maximum amount of activity our customers seek,” said San Agustin.
This holistic approach has made SM the favorite go-to pickleball hangout place for customers, almost doubling the 44 courts initially constructed through the rise of interest in the sport. Also, following strong demand and fully booked courts until the end of 2025, SM’s upcoming thrust focuses on building more permanent courts to increase its inventory to close to 80 in 2026.
“The high volume of bookings across all our courts hints that pickleball isn’t an exclusive sport—anyone can play. And because it is inclusive and easy to learn, SM saw this as an opportunity to naturally drive active lifestyles for our customers,” said San Agustin.
A Favorite for Maxed-out pickleball gatherings
Active Hub caters to a wide group of picklers—from competitive enthusiasts to casual first-timers looking to play or find a new and fun bonding activity with their friends. Every kind of player can find an event that encourages them to keep playing.
Out-of-the-box creative concepts like the Glow Ball pickleball event, giving the game a fun and exciting glow-in-the-dark twist, while enrichment activities such as free coached Pickleball Clinics encouraged newbies and young players to try the sport out.
Active Hub is also home to the major competition SM Pickleball Super Series, in partnership with Toby’s Sports, running alongside local tournaments and events.
It initiated the Pickleball Power Tour with Filipino-American, world-ranked pro-athlete Lauren Mercado igniting passion for the sport among the next generation of players. The event was such a massive hit that SM will be hosting a second iteration within the first half of 2026.
“This is a testament to SM’s desire of hosting the most creative and commercially attuned sports events that our customers can always look forward to. As long as the Filipino desire for community and activity remains ablaze, SM is determined to continually give that passion for sports a home,” said San Agustin.
Nationwide malls drive MSME upskilling, growth, and sustainable enterprise
Under the SM for MSMEs program, MSME Hub owners Alamanga and Rainbow Scoops bring locally made flavors and proudly Filipino products closer to the community—proof that when small businesses are given the right platform, they grow and thrive.
MANILA, Philippines, 26 January 2026 — Building on strong MSME momentum in 2025, SM Supermalls is entering 2026 with a renewed and sharpened focus on empowering Filipino entrepreneurs, leveraging its nationwide mall network to create tangible growth opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Through its SM for MSMEs program, SM Supermalls empowered 920 new MSMEs and start-ups in 2025, with nearly 10% successfully transitioning into regular mall tenants through kiosks, counters, or in-line stores nationwide. Since its enhanced rollout in March 2024, the program has supported 2,288 unique MSMEs, providing real-world platforms where entrepreneurs can test, refine, and scale their businesses.
In 2025 alone, 28,761 MSME booth activations were mounted nationwide, driven by a growing consumer demand for locally made, experience-led products across food and beverage, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle categories.
Honoring MSME Excellence
The annual SM for MSMEs Wall of Champions recognized outstanding MSME awardees and finalists whose businesses exemplified resilience, innovation, and community impact—serving as a tribute to Filipino entrepreneurship and its vital role in nation-building.
“The private sector has a role to play in enabling the future growth of the MSME sector,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Supporting the grassroots economy is a long-term commitment we intend to uphold.”
2025 MSME awardees and finalists gathered at the SM for MSMEs Wall of Champions with executives from SM Supermalls and the Department of Trade and Industry, celebrating excellence, resilience, and community impact.
“SM is like a big brother to smaller businesses like us,” said Euclid S. Cezar, President and CEO of Famous Belgian Waffle and a 2025 Medium Enterprise finalist. “Being recognized motivates us to expand, innovate, and bring our products to more communities.”
Nation-Building Through Partnerships
From learning summits and curated markets to large-scale trade fairs, SM Supermalls worked closely with key partners, including the Department of Trade and Industry, Go Negosyo, media organizations, trade fair organizers, and MSME exhibitor,s to deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for entrepreneurs nationwide.
DTI and SM Supermalls spotlight the Philippine coconut industry as MSMEs take centerstage—local entrepreneurs proudly showcasing coconut-based products crafted by Filipino hands.
LEFT PHOTO:(L–R) Cong TV, Viy Cortez, Ivy Cortez, and Rolly Cortez joined MSMEs and mallgoers during the VIYLine MSME Caravan at SM City Santa Rosa. MID PHOTO: During the VIYLine MSME Caravan opening at SM City Santa Rosa, Cong TV surprised the crowd by revealing himself onstage after posing as a cameraman. RIGHT PHOTO: Influencers and entrepreneur-creators met fans and shoppers during the VIYLine MSME Caravan at SM City Santa Rosa, bringing digital communities into real-world marketplaces.
According to the Department of Trade and Industry, MSMEs account for 99.63% of businesses and 66.58% of total employment in the Philippines, underscoring their critical role as the backbone of the national economy.
Major 2025 highlights included the DTI National Food Fair, Negros Trade Fair, Women Strong Trade Fair by WomenBizPH, VIYLine MSME Caravan, and the Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025, which energized the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall with mentorship sessions and business insights, highlighted by Francis Kong’s talk, “Now and Next: The Trends in Business for MSMEs.”
The Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025 energized the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall last July 19, bringing together entrepreneurs and mentors for inspiring talks, mentorship, and growth opportunities—highlighted by Francis Kong’s session, “Now and Next: The Trends in Business for MSMEs.”
Expanding Opportunities Beyond Metro Manila
Leveraging its nationwide footprint, SM Supermalls expanded regional trade fairs and themed marketplaces across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, bringing high-visibility platforms closer to local communities and advancing more inclusive, region-led growth.
The Negros Trade Fair opening day at SMX Aura drew crowds eager to experience Negrense delicacies, craftsmanship, and heritage products.
Kicking Off 2026 With Strong MSME Partnerships
To start 2026, SM Supermalls—together with government agencies, media partners, and trade fair organizers- will host and support a new slate of MSM-focused events.
DTI Region IV-A Coco Festival Food Fair
January 14–20, 2026 | SM City San Pablo
Featuring coconut-based products and local delicacies from MSMEs in Region IV-A.
Philstar Nakakalokal Bazaar
Showcasing homegrown food, fashion, crafts, and lifestyle brands from the Visayas and the Cordillera region, highlighting locally made MSME products.
The Silk Events Bazaar
January 28–February 10, 2026 | SM La Union
A curated lifestyle and artisan market offering MSMEs extended exposure in a tourism-driven destination.
As SM Supermalls moves into 2026, SM for MSMEs continues to evolve as a scalable growth platform—transforming participation into opportunity, and opportunity into sustainable enterprise for Filipino entrepreneurs nationwide.
Philippine Updates 