Category: Uncategorized

SM Prime: Shaping a Decarbonized Future for Malls 

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With the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) taking place in Belem, Brazil, this November, the momentum to focus on lasting solutions for the planet’s climate crises comes at its most critical time. 

For SM Prime Holdings, Inc., this means that the journey to Net Zero by 2040 becomes more than a unifying force across its portfolio; it is the goal for strengthened implementation, sound partnerships, and collective resilience. 

The 2MWp rooftop solar photovoltaic system installed at MOA Square—developed with TotalEnergies—generates approximately 3,000 MWh of clean energy annually, reducing an estimated 1,430 tons of CO₂emissions each year. 

Empowered partnerships 

Security, affordability, and sustainability – these are known as the “energy trilemma” – challenges presently faced by businesses. It’s especially relevant for the future of property development and urban resilience. 

SM Prime continues forging strategic partnerships with leaders in renewable energy to expand its clean energy capacity, drive innovation, and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future.

For SM Prime, a comprehensive and diversified energy mix is an approach that benefits renewable energy producers and transforms the industry, and is the broader strategy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

SM Supermalls has already achieved more than 50% of renewable energy use across its malls by leveraging partnerships with key renewable energy players and direct procurement

This energy infrastructure reflects SM Prime’s significant investment in emerging technologies. In 2022, SM Prime’s partnership with Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. (ARI) activated its strategic plans, and in 2024, it further broadened its renewable-energy footprint by partnering with TotalEnergies. The addition of Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation in 2025, along with the steady increase of leading solar rooftop suppliers for SM Supermalls, helps meet the demands for renewables through on-site generation. 

SM Sta. Rosa. SM Supermalls continues to scale its use of renewable energy across its nationwide portfolio. By increasing its solar rooftop capacity, SM helps make its malls cleaner, more energy-efficient, and more resilient for surrounding communities.

This commitment to sustainable energy drives positive change and contributes to SM Prime’s broader mitigation and adaptation strategies, supporting the country’s national framework in achieving its emission reduction targets. 

Energy for the people

Resilient communities and enduring partnerships for climate-smart urban centers are part of these system shifts toward energy independence. It confirms that renewables are a strategic asset, especially as they become affordable and community-serving, empowering businesses nationwide. 

It also supports a sustainable lifestyle. For the SM Green Movement, this balance is achieved by re-energizing neighborhoods to contribute to the climate crisis and offering more options to become energy and fuel-efficient, while improving quality of life. 

The festive Christmas Holidays at SM Supermalls.  Powered increasingly by renewable sources, SM malls continue to serve as vibrant community hubs—bright, welcoming spaces that reflect SM Prime’s commitment to sustainable and resilient development.

“We started the journey with our energy efficiency programs in the 90s,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “This lets us enjoy our mall spaces now because we maximize our energy use, lower operational costs, while hopefully, reducing our emissions,” 

“Of course, we still have a long way to go. But we are trying to make renewable energy accessible at scale to our malls – not just to create decarbonization value for the communities we touch and work with – but to provide flexible, adaptive, and sustainable mall experiences. Most importantly, a safer future for all,” said Tan.

SM Supermalls and DICT launched Digital Corners in SM Job Fairs

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Empowering job seekers and SHS learners through digital upskilling

Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda and SM Supermalls VP for Mall Operations Junias Eusebio formalize their partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish digital corners in SM Job Fairs. The two leaders also reaffirm their shared commitment through the Pledge of Commitment Wall, championing real-world opportunities that empower young Filipinos to develop future-ready digital skills.

Quezon City, Philippines — November 6, 2025. SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), has officially introduced Digital Corners to SM Job Fairs—an initiative launched during the J.O.B.S. Immersion for SHS 2025 held at the Skydome, SM City North EDSA.

An innovative learning solution, the Digital Corner is designed as a free, open-access upskilling hub within SM job fair venues. It offers job seekers training opportunities on digital literacy, Python programming, Google Career Certificate courses, basic networking, coding, cybersecurity, and online entrepreneurship.

SM Supermalls champions inclusivity and opportunity, helping create pathways for every Filipino student to succeed.

“This is the next step in our collective efforts to not only match jobs with job seekers but to equip them with future-ready digital skills,” said Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations, SM Supermalls. “By housing this initiative in SM malls, we’re turning job fairs into job-and-learning fairs—places where opportunity and capability meet.” The Digital Corner is expected to benefit thousands of Filipinos annually, especially graduating SHS students preparing to enter the workforce or pursue further training in tech-enabled fields.

DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT STARTS WITH SHS STUDENTS

Nearly 1,000 SHS students, accompanied by parents and teachers from over 40 schools, participated in the J.O.B.S. Immersion for SHS 2025 launch. The event marks the rollout of the Enhanced Work Immersion Pilot (EWIP), a collaboration between the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), with SM Supermalls serving as a key venue and industry partner, alongside SM Retail.

The Skydome at SM City North EDSA buzzed with energy as a thousand of Senior High School Students took their first step from classroom to career during the launch of the J.O.B.S. Immersion for SHS students, a program bridging education and employment opportunities for young learners

The EWIP is transforming the SHS experience by increasing work immersion hours from the current 80–320 hours to 420–640 hours. This expanded, hands-on training is supported by industry partners who co-develop training plans to align classroom learning with real-world skills in sectors such as retail, hospitality, and technology.

Interactive booths from DICT and private partners let students explore future career paths and digital upskilling opportunities

At the launch, companies including SM Retail and Newport World Resorts provided students with insights into job expectations and workplace values. Throughout the day, students also attended career readiness sessions with experts and explored opportunities presented by industry and government partners in a special Digital Economy Showcase.

Industry leaders from SM Retail VP for Human Resources Ms. Maria Teresa P. Portillo, Newport World Resorts Marketing and Administrative Head Mr. Mark Ross Rubio and Department of Science and Technology- Information and Communications Office (DOST-ICT Office) Deputy Executive Director Ms. Beatrice Quimson share career insights and mentorship during the SHS Immersion Talks.

SM MALLS: THE FUTURE OF OPPORTUNITY CENTERS

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers—remains a steadfast partner in nation-building by opening doors to employment through accessible job fairs in its 88 malls nationwide. For four decades, SM has evolved into more than just a retail destination—it has become a platform for empowering Filipinos with livelihood opportunities, bridging job seekers with employers, and uplifting lives through strategic partnerships that foster workforce development and inclusive economic growth.

BEST NEW FIRSTS IN METRO MANILA: Flavors You’ll Come Back For

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Great meals don’t just fill you up—they keep you coming back for more.

This season, SM Supermalls invites you to discover a bold new era full of evolving finds with a delicious lineup of food destinations made to spark cravings and create lasting favorites. From Japan’s rich culinary traditions to the artistry of coffee and chocolate, each first is thoughtfully made to raise the bar for flavor and bring fresh dining experiences to every table.

And as we continue to serve these dishes out hot, one thing remains constant: at SM Supermalls, we’re always growing and evolving with you to truly show that we’ve got it all for you.

A Journey Through Japan 

Nothing compares to the depth and comfort of authentic Japanese flavors. These handpicked spots serve everything from rich, hearty ramen to delicate, traditional sweets—each one made to bring a true taste of Japan to the Metro.

  • Ramen Nagi – Craving comfort in a bowl? Ramen Nagi at the Ground Level, South Wing of SM Mall of Asia serves up rich, soul-warming ramen that’s as bold as it is satisfying. From creamy tonkotsu broth to perfectly chewy noodles and your choice of toppings, every bowl is made to hit just the right spot. Whether you’re a spice chaser or a flavor purist, this is your go-to for ramen that delivers on every slurp.
  • Warabimochi – Soft, silky, and oh-so-satisfying—Warabimochi is now here at the Lower Ground Level of SM Aura to give dessert a whole new texture. This Japanese favorite melts in your mouth with every bite, whether dusted in nutty kinako or topped with a luscious syrup. Light enough for an afternoon treat yet special enough to end a meal, it’s the kind of sweetness you’ll want to linger over.

Poured to Perfection

From the roast to the steep, every step is done with care. These coffee and tea destinations serve up expertly crafted cups that balance flavor, aroma, and artistry—perfect for slow mornings, midday pick-me-ups, and everything in between.

  • CHAGEE – Cool, creamy, and brewed just right—CHAGEE makes its Philippine debut by bringing a new kind of tea experience to SM City North EDSA at the 2nd Level, City Center. Every cup is steeped to perfection for flavor that hits just right. Whether you’re in need for a little escape or chilling with friends, it’s tea time with a little extra kick of fun.
  • Kenangan Coffee – Bold flavors, smooth pours, and the best Indonesian vibe—Kenangan Coffee is now brewing at SM Megamall. Known for its signature lattes and creative blends, every cup is made to keep your coffee moments anything but ordinary. Whether you’re grabbing a quick pick-me-up or savoring it slowly, this is coffee that will stay with you long after the last drop.
  • H Proper Coffee Roasters – Turn your coffee runs into something worth looking forward to at SM Podium. H Proper Coffee Roasters is here to brew up rich aromas with just-right caffeine kick that can turn your ordinary day into a great one.

The Art of Indulgence

Some chocolates are so good they become an experience all on their own—and that’s exactly what you get with Läderach. Switzerland’s world-famous chocolatier has finally arrived at SM Mall of Asia, marking its first store in the Philippines. Known for its silky pralines, crisp nut-studded slabs, and decadent truffles, each bite strikes the perfect balance of rich and refined. Whether you’re into bold, dark notes or creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness, this is Swiss chocolate done right. One visit and you’ll know—this is the gold standard of indulgence.

Brunch O’Clock

Who says brunch is only for weekends? With the first Brunch Bureau in SM now open at the 2nd Level of S Maison, we’ve made it easier to turn any time of day into an excuse for pancakes at 3 PM. From perfectly brewed coffee to savory plates that hit just the right spot, it’s your moment to slow down and enjoy a little extra me-time. No rush, no rules—just brunch done your way.

How far will your cravings take you? From rich, savory staples to next-level sweets, Metro Manila’s newest dining spots are here to tempt, surprise, and satisfy. These aren’t just meals—they’re flavor moments you’ll want to come back to. All thoughtfully picked to turn your everyday cravings into something worth obsessing over 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.

SM Prime: Smarter Water Management for a Resilient Future

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Manila, Philippines — Water is a limited resource, and many Philippine cities face pressure on their supply due to rapid urbanization and climate change. SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, prioritizes water efficiency as a core operational strategy to pave the way for a water-resilient future.  

One of the world’s largest shopping malls, the SM Mall of Asia remains a sustainable marvel thanks to its water-saving solutions.

The result is a portfolio-wide water intensity of 0.44 m³/m²/year, already surpassing water efficiency standards of some of the leading global benchmarks.

For SM Supermalls, every chance to collect and conserve water is explored. Simple low-flow fixtures and the adoption of water-saving technologies prevent unnecessary consumption at scale. Recycling air conditioning condensate and processed water minimizes dependence on fresh water, and innovative approaches that capture portions of floodwater for non-potable use support sustainable water management. 

Managing water through innovation. SM City Laoag achieves everyday water responsible practices by recycling non-potable water for landscaping and garden irrigation, cleaning, air conditioning systems, and toilet-flushing. 

This efficiency means that for every square meter of mall space, SM Supermalls’ water use translates into millions of liters saved annually. 

Beyond equipment and systems upgrades, culturally integrating sustainability values is part of the solution. Water education campaigns for tenant-partners, employees, and mallgoers promote the wider sustainability campaign of the SM Green Movement. 

SM Supermalls was ahead of the Clean Water Act in 2004. SM City North Edsa lessens its dependence on freshwater sources for non-potable uses, optimizing resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The mall’s Sky Garden’s 400-meter green roof development is a green space in the dense urban jungle. 

Creating a sustainable mall experience like no other, SM Supermalls believes that investing in efficient and scalable water management systems also means bringing everyone together to ensure water for tomorrow. 

“Our mall water management systems are already at par with some of the best in the world. We do this because we understand that every liter saved eases the pressure on local water resources and secures our operations for the long term,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. 

Water efficiency is nationwide for SM Supermalls. SM Seaside Cebu, thefourth-largest mall in the Philippines, uses recycled water for toilets, cleaning, and landscaping needs.

Every drop makes a difference, and conserving the planet’s valuable resources is communicated through SM Cares’ large and unique community platform, whether in the malls or on social media. The interactive and visually rich content is especially appealing for the younger, digitally active millennial and Gen Z workforce. 

“Our work in the malls is to make sure that we give you the best experience without compromising the needs of tomorrow, but of course, we cannot do it alone. When we combine all our actions as a community, no matter how big or small these are, we can all enjoy a water-resilient future,” said Tan. ### 

About SM Green Movement:

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, committed to creating sustainable, innovative, and inclusive spaces for Filipinos. Guided by its vision of building a better future, SM Prime develops malls, residences, offices, hotels, and leisure properties that support the growth of communities across the Philippines.

Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come.

SM Supermalls Celebrates DOLE’s 92nd Anniversary and Marks 30,000th Hired-On-The-Spot Milestone

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Tuguegarao City, Philippines — December 10, 2025. SM Supermalls, in strong partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), commemorates the agency’s 92nd Founding Anniversary with a landmark achievement: celebrating the 30,000th hired-on-the-spot (HOTS) during a job fair at SM City Tuguegarao\

A Life-Changing Moment in Tuguegarao

The 30,000th HOTS, Ms. Rachelle Navalta, was hired on the spot as a Service Crew member at McDonald’s during the anniversary job fair. Overwhelmed by the news, she shared: “Hindi po ako makapaniwala… nag-try lang po akong mag-apply dito sa job fair dito sa SM. Hindi ko po akalain na hired on the spot ako.” She also encouraged other job seekers: “Wag po kayong matakot mag-try. Hindi natin alam kung ano ang nakatakdang mangyari sa ating buhay.” Her story embodies the heart of the SM–DOLE partnership: turning a simple decision to show up into opportunities that change lives.

The milestone highlights the continued success of the SM–DOLE Job Fair Program, which has mounted over 370 job fairs nationwide since November 2023, supporting more than 220,000 job seekers and resulting in over 30,000 HOTS to date. This collaborative effort reflects the shared mission of SM Supermalls and DOLE to widen access to meaningful employment and uplift Filipino communities.

SM hosts job fairs, and together with DOLE and other government agencies, officially opens the event to employ more Filipinos

A Partnership that Connects Dreams with Possibilities

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan described the significance of the partnership in opening real pathways to livelihood and growth: “Our partnership through the SM–DOLE Job Fairs has become more than just a program. It’s a bridge — connecting dreams with possibilities. As we celebrate DOLE’s 92 years of service, we at SM reaffirm our commitment to this partnership — to continue providing platforms that empower, connect, and uplift the Filipino workforce. Congratulations, DOLE! Thank you for being our partner in progress, our partner in nation-building.”

On-the-spot hiring– happy jobseekers walk away with job offers in hand, proving that SM Job Fairs are more than events — they’re gateways to livelihood.

SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin echoed this message, underscoring DOLE’s long-standing role in shaping the country’s workforce. “For many years, DOLE has been at the heart of nation-building — helping Filipinos find sustainable and meaningful work. And we at SM Supermalls are truly proud to be your partner in this mission.” He further added: “Thank you, DOLE, for your leadership and partnership in empowering the Filipino workforce. Together, we will continue to open doors that lead to growth, dignity, and hope for every Filipino.”

SM Supermalls Assistant Vice Present for Job Fairs and MSMEs Royston A. Cabunag said malls have evolved into community spaces where lives change through the SM–DOLE partnership, bringing companies and talents together through accessible, community-driven initiatives. He affirmed SM’s continued commitment to making every job fair a gateway to a better life, supporting DOLE’s long-standing role in shaping the nation’s workforce.

Together, SM and DOLE continue to expand job fair initiatives in key regions, hosting regular events that streamline hiring, empower job seekers, and uplift Filipino families. By transforming malls into opportunity centers where applicants can meet employers, receive guidance, and often secure positions in a single day, the partnership strengthens local communities and supports inclusive economic growth.

At SM Job Fairs, you don’t just apply — you get interviews, career guidance, and access to partner agencies all in one go. See you at the next one!

PLDT Enterprise Champions Collaboration on AI and Cybersecurity for Startups at Innovation Spotlight

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In line with its mission to enable enterprises of all sizes through meaningful technology, PLDT Enterprise led the next leg of the Innovation Spotlight, in partnership with the US Embassy, Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative, YSEALI AMPLIFY 9.0, Women’s Alliance for Security and Peace (WASP), Fibers Collective, and Pina Beauty PH. The themed “Harnessing AI and Cybersecurity for Startups” gathered innovators, founders, and advocates to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and digital security can work together to empower startups and strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem.

The Innovation Spotlight series was designed to ignite collaboration among industries, innovators, and changemakers — each event highlighting practical, scalable solutions for growth and human-centered ways to use technology for progress. By fostering dialogue and discovery, the series helps leaders transform ideas into action and potential into real impact on communities and people.

This latest session focused on one of today’s most urgent and promising intersections: the role of AI and cybersecurity in driving startup success. The event brought together thought leaders including WASP Founder Captain Caroline Nacional and Joie Cruz, CEO of Limitless Lab, who shared insights on inclusive innovation and responsible technology adoption.

Empowering Startups Through Innovation and Security

Mickey Ruiz, Head of Innovations and Product Development at PLDT Enterprise, underscored the dual importance of innovation and protection in the digital era.

“Cybercrime is no longer a distant threat—it’s here, it’s real, and it’s growing,” Ruiz said. “Startups are agile and fast-moving, but that agility must be matched with awareness and readiness. Security is not a luxury—it’s a foundation.”

Mickey Ruiz, Head of Innovations and Product Development at PLDT Enterprise, highlights the critical role of cybersecurity and collaboration in enabling secure innovation for startups.

Ruiz also highlighted how PLDT Enterprise is helping startups leverage AI securely and ethically, while building a culture of collaboration across industries and organizations to innovate and grow together.

“Cybersecurity isn’t a solo mission. It’s a team sport. And when startups collaborate with the right partners, they gain not just tools—but trust, knowledge, and resilience to innovate boldly in the digital world,” he added.

The event also showcased PLDT Enterprise’s latest technology solutions that are helping businesses strengthen their operations, including SmartSafe, Cybersecurity Infrastructure, and AI-driven tools that enable seamless, secure, and scalable growth

Driving Collaboration and Digital Resilience

Beyond technology, the event emphasized the power of collaboration — bringing together startups, advocates, and organizations that share the goal of turning ideas into reality.
PLDT Enterprise reinforced its commitment to co-innovate with partners who bring specialized expertise to help startups integrate technology safely and meaningfully into their growth journey.

The discussions also tackled emerging industry trends such as AI-driven fraud prevention, cloud-based cybersecurity frameworks, and digital ethics, underscoring how businesses can embrace innovation without compromising trust.

A Commitment to a Safer and Smarter Digital Future

As part of its brand promise, PLDT Enterprise reaffirmed its mission to support businesses — from startups to large-scale enterprises — in embracing innovation while ensuring operational security and continuity.

Ruiz concluded: “Innovation is exciting. AI is powerful. And startups are the lifeblood of our digital future. But without security, innovation is fragile. Our goal at PLDT Enterprise is to help businesses not only build, but build securely, ethically, and boldly.”

Learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s innovations, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-ai-and-cybersecurity-pr

The Plight of South East Asian Domestic Workers Through the Magic of Dance and Witchcraft

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The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), and the Goethe-Institut Philippinen, proudly present Magic Maids, a cultural ritual and dance performance interlacing the fear and oppression of women from centuries ago to today, at the CCP Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (CCP Black Box Theater) from November 7 to 9, 2025.

Conceptualized and choreographed by Eisa Jocson and Venuri Perera, Magic Maids is a dance performance that interweaves the complexities and similarities of maids to the trials and tribulations of witches. Through the lens of feminist resistance, the 80-minute performance is told through the perspective of both the witch and the maid, using the broom, not only as a metaphor for the shared experiences of prejudice and sacrifice, but also as a physical device that connects both archetypal figures.

The dance performance is a ritual, a collective retelling of the hushed stories of domestic workers in the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia, providing a broader perspective on the exploitation of labor in the Global South likened to the European witch hunts. 

With Jocson and Perera born and raised from the Global South, it adds an extra layer of cultural and personal touch in the show’s storytelling through its ritual in denouncing the oppression of women that continues to haunt the globe and uplifting feminist resistance.

On November 9 at 11:00 AM, Jocson and Perera will lead a workshop titled Broomology 101 at the TIG Lobby. In this session, the broom serves as a central axis linking the archetypes of the witch and the housemaid, becoming a tool for playful transformation and somatic exploration. Participants will explore what it means to extend themselves through the broom—merging, becoming wild, and engaging with the power of intention through movement and collective experience—while examining the spectrum between beauty and monstrosity. 

Jocson is an interdisciplinary artist based in La Union. With a background in ballet, she drifted towards the contemporary dance genre and pole dancing, which continues to amplify her work and exploration of body politics and exploitation of migrant work in her own country, the Philippines.

Perera is an independent creator from Colombo. She has curated and produced projects of the Colombo Dance Platform and is currently a member of the Dance Panel of the Arts Council in Sri Lanka. Her works focus on the patriarchy, colonialism and class struggle, a reflection of her own experiences and the collective experience of women in her nation.

Performances for ‘Magic Maids’ will be held on November 7 and 8, at 5pm, and November 9, at 8pm. 

Regular ticket price is Php600 and student discount ticket is priced at Php300 upon presentation of valid ID.

Interested workshop participants can register until November 4, 2025 through the registration link https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf3GUt_9AlzYuTEt31AiA-fhPT4A_FuctYhl1-Y4viMabAFjg/viewform. Selected participants will receive a confirmation from the Goethe-Institut.

To get the latest updates on CCP’s events, follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) for more news.

Fearless stories that will hoist the Balanghai sail in Cinemalaya 2026

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Building on the momentum of the recently concluded Cinemalaya 21: Layag sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos, the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. are raising the artistic bar high once again as they unveil the 10 new full-length finalists who will be competing in the country’s pioneering independent film festival in 2026.

For its 22nd edition, Cinemalaya will continue to uphold its vision to develop and support the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity, with new narratives that embody the ever-evolving landscape of Filipino cinema.

The 2026 finalists, culled from the 20 semi-finalists, are still undergoing training at the Cinemalaya Film Lab, a three-month-long film-laboratory mentorship program meant to prime the finalists in the different aspects of filmmaking such as scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, performance, editing, production design, sound, music, production management, and promotion strategies, among others.

The 10 finalists of the Cinemalaya Main Competition (Full-Length Category) are:

2 VALID IDs BY MA-AN ASUNCION-DAGÑALAN and ABET PADAGDAGAN RAZ

Sylvia, a poor farmer, is unable to claim the money sent to her because she lacks the required two valid IDS. In her struggle in securing the IDs, Sylvia finds herself in a situation that challenges her character, beliefs, and morality.

‘A.NI.MAL BY DUSTIN CELESTINO

In a provincial Philippine town, the naïve daughter of the mayor comes home with a video of a powerful family friend abusing his dog.

DANGEOM BY PAUL STA. ANA

A gay Korean-Filipino dancer and his Korean aunt, bound by their patriarch’s dementia, clash over a missing heirloom dagger as they each struggle for acceptance – he in a foreign land; she, within a tradition that denies her.

GANGGANG BY JL BURGOS

At the first clash of their fighting spiders, Ilay and Ten-ten knew they would go home as losers. Anton, the winner of the fight, will once again lord over their school. At the sideline is Mel, a newcomer and a city boy, watching the rowdy play in awe, unaware that soon he will become an ally of Ilay and Ten-ten against the real neighborhood bully.

KAMAY NI BATHALA BY MARK DUANE ANGOS

In a remote village scarred by years of conflict, a young army lieutenant introduces football to children. As the game begins to heal wounds and rebuild trust, he forms a fragile bond with a child soldier — forcing both to choose between the innocence they’ve lost and the violent realities of war.

MAG-IINA BY GIANCARLO ABRAHAN & GUELAN LUARCA

A woman returns to her family’s ancestral home to mourn her estranged father, reuniting three generations of women who uncover that the grief, the madness, and the evil within the decaying mansion are thicker than blood.

MAY BUNTOT ANG MGA YAN BY ALPHA HABON

A coming-of-age story of two friends in Mindoro – Niko, a Manila boy, and Ayan, a Mangyan. Their unique bond spans a whole summer of being introduced to each other’s culture and lifestyle, with Niko teaching Ayan how to read, who in turn teaches Niko how to swim.

STATUS REJECTED BY VAHN LEINARD PASCUAL

Longing for love and the promise of a better life, a grandmother finds herself swept into an unexpected online romance that challenges her sense of worth, family, and the dreams she refuses to let go of.

TAYO LANG ANG NAKAKAALAM BY DAVID CORPUZ

Bound by a love kept in silence, a man struggles to remain seen within a family that once made him feel at home.

TIRIK BY MAY-I PADILLA

Paring Bert, a priest, and his parishioner, Santos, a taxi driver, goes on a gritty journey to make peace with their moral conflicts while they elude an assassination attempt.

For more information, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya Facebook pages and other social media accounts on X, Instagram, and TikTok.

Global Filipina tech leader says Philippines is now the ASEAN model for emergency response

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Now that the Philippines has in place a unified, nationwide 911 emergency response system, the Philippines is now the benchmark for NG911 (next generation 911) deployment in ASEAN.

Ishka Villacisneros, Chief Financial Officer of the NGA 911 LLC in the US and President of NGA 911 Philippines – known globally as the innovator of emergency calling technology and the leader in Next Generation (NG911) emergency communications worldwide – said the country has become the first country in the region to fully implement the US-grade emergency technology.

On September 11, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) launched the unified 911 system in partnership with NGA 911, together with PLDT Enterprise and ePLDT, that guarantees any call for help from any part of the country will be responded to swiftly and accurately.

NGA 911 Philippines provides the next-generation advanced technology that has revolutionized the speed and accuracy by which calls for help can be reported and responded to, while PLDT Enterprise and ePLDT, Inc. provides the network and infrastructure that link national agencies with local government units (LGUs) for faster, more coordinated response.

On its first day of operations, the DILG reported that the newly launched system already showed 94.42% efficiency. The call center located at the PLDT Sampaloc office has consistently handled around 61,000 calls per day and has been able to identify and weed out test, abandoned or prank calls.

Ms. Villacisneros says the new technology will allow Filipinos to rely on a safer, more connected and more accountable emergency response system. She cited the key benefits of the system as “a single 911 hotline for police, fire, medical, and disaster response; real-time communication via text, social media, bodycam and drone video; precise caller location, even without signal – because the technology is serviced by Starlink; faster response times—from 1.5 hours down to around 5 minutes; and more transparency and data for better local decision-making”.

“Whether you’re in the city, municipality or a remote barangay, this system ensures that when you need help, you’re not alone, someone will pick up your call and get help to you.”

NGA 911 is currently focused on rolling out Next Generation 911 across all LGUs, ensuring operational excellence, responder training, and public awareness,” Ms. Villacisneros said. Down the line, more upgrades like AI-powered alerts, predictive analytics and multimedia integration for smarter, faster response are to be expected.

“Regionally, we’ve begun conversations with Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico, Qatar, Maldives, and more who are eager to adopt the technology after seeing the Philippines lead the way. The success here has positioned us to export not just the system—but the roadmap and strategy for implementation throughout Southeast Asia.

Other ASEAN countries are now reaching out to NGA 911, hoping to follow the Philippine model. “It’s an incredible moment. The Philippines is no longer just adopting tech—we’re exporting solutions,” Ishka says proudly.
Ms Villacisneros began the journey to bring Next Generation 911 (NG911) to the Philippines in 2019 “not just as a business move, but as a mission to save lives”.

“Back then, emergency response in the country was fragmented and inefficient: over 30 local emergency hotlines, 200 fire numbers, 700 police lines, and more than 40,000 barangay numbers. Help was not only delayed—it often didn’t come at all.

“In the last four years, I navigated a volatile landscape—working through administration changes, pandemic lockdowns, natural disasters, all while pushing the initiative forward. Despite these challenges, I successfully secured millions of dollars in U.S. investment from NGA 911 LLC, and built high-level partnerships with PLDT, Google, AWS and Starlink to support nationwide deployment.”

“We’ve shown that with determination, partnerships, and people-first leadership, even a developing country can leap into the future. Now, the Philippines is not just catching up—we’re leading,” Ms. Villacisneros said.

Her vision? For the Philippines to become the ASEAN regional hub for life-saving public safety tech.

CDO’s Bold New Firsts Begin at SM Supermalls

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Discover new ways to dine – only at SM.

Craving for some mouthwatering seafood? How about freshly brewed coffee, ready to go? This month, it’s all about what you want—check out these newly opened food and beverage spots heading your way.

You have all the reasons to make life more rewarding with these new firsts. From indulgent  dining to quick coffee breaks, you deserve nothing but the best to satisfy your cravings. 

Have a truly fulfilling day and give yourself limitless possibilities to live the good life with SM Supermalls—right here in Cagayan de Oro City.

Fresh Eats Straight from the Sea at Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant

Experience a unique dining experience with Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant—a bold new take on Filipino culinary traditions perfect for every seafood lover.

This pork-free restaurant offers flavorful dishes with a modern twist, including their signature Balangay Seafood Boil: a hearty platter of fresh seafood served in a custom-built Balangay-style boat—honoring Filipino heritage in a festive spread. Each dish is carefully plated with built-in burners, keeping the food deliciously hot and freshly cooked right at your table.

Indulge in the sea’s bounty, and experience a burst of flavor with this beachside-inspired dining escape at Level 5, SM CDO Downtown.

Coffee On-the-Go with Starbucks Drive-thru

Starbucks, one of the country’s most popular cafés, has opened its first-ever drive-thru store here in Northern Mindanao—giving our busy coffee lovers the convenience of enjoying their favorite blends and brews while on the road.

Kickstart your day with your go-to Iced Latte. Feel adventurous and try one of their seasonal signature brews. Pair your handcrafted coffee or non-coffee drink with a delicious Doughssant. 

Whatever your mood or wherever you go, you can now take Starbucks with you. Whether you’re headed to work, running errands, or just exploring the city, your caffeine fix is always just a quick stop at the North Wing of SM City CDO Uptown.   

Discover new ways to dine—only 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!