Feed Your Empty PET Bottles into SM’s New Green Recycling Machines

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Your empty PET bottles have somewhere better to go than landfills—and SM is taking them there.

Through the newly-deployed Green Recycling Machines (GR Machines), SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) uses the nationwide reach of SM Supermalls to make sustainable action easy, accessible, and rewarding for mallgoers all over the country.

“The GR Machines enrich the SM Group’s existing waste management efforts under the SM Green Movement,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “Through the deployment of these machines, we hope to collaborate with our customers in caring for the environment by helping recycle PET bottles whenever they enter their most loved SM Supermalls.”

Each GR Machine can be operated with ease by any user and can accept PET bottles up to two liters. Together, the GR Machines nationwide can collectively hold up to 5,000 bottles in one collection cycle, which are compressed in-machine. The compressed PET blocks are then collected and given a second life by SM’s hauling partner, Sentinel, which transforms the blocks into reusable items such as food trays.

Little makes much: Preserving the environment one diverted bottle at a time

According to the World Bank, the Philippines leaks more than 300 million metric tons of plastic waste into the sea annually—equivalent to around 9 percent of its improperly handled plastic waste. The Philippines was also noted as one of East Asia and the Pacific region’s top contributors to ocean plastic pollution.

Recognizing that sustainability and protecting the environment are beyond the efforts of one entity, SM has leveraged its presence nationwide through its properties to engage its customers and surrounding communities in maximizing the collection of recyclables, especially plastics. Through SM Cares, its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM empowers communities to adopt sustainable practices through simple and accessible ways to take part in protecting the environment. Arresting the growing issue of pollution, the SM Group has enhanced waste segregation efforts to increase its collection and diversion of plastics from the environment since 2007 with its pioneer program, the Trash to Cash recycling market. 

SM Group’s Trash to Cash initiative was organized by SM Cares as the pilot community program that encouraged customers to segregate recyclables like metal, paper, and plastic and exchange these for cash every month. SM Supermalls also followed up this effort with the launch of two Reverse Vending Machines in SM Mall of Asia and SM Megamall, which empowered customers to segregate aluminum cans and empty PETs in exchange for discounts on sports and leisure attractions. On top of these, SM also hosts nationwide coastal clean-up drives annually through the strength and effort of its workforce volunteers.

With the latest in mobile recycling technology, SM’s GR Machines encourage customers to turn good intentions into daily environmentally-conscious actions in three easy steps:

  1. Feed any PET bottle up to 2 liters into the machine
  2. Confirm your deposit by pressing the prompt on the screen
  3. Await your reward

“This is just a glimpse into how SM aims to enrich the Circular Economy through the elevated role we play in integrating seamless waste management efforts, all for Filipinos. We are hopeful that with the addition of the SM GR Machines, our continued partnership with our customers in protecting the environment yields a more sustainable future,” said Tan. Customers can start depositing their plastic bottles in SM GR Machines across the following malls: SM North EDSA, SM City San Lazaro, SM Megamall, SM The Podium, SM Aura, SM Southmall, SM Mall of Asia, S’Maison, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM Lanang.

SM Supermalls Brings February Job Fairs Nationwide, Making Job Search Easier for Filipinos

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In celebration of the Banatu Festival, celebrating the 76th founding anniversary of Cabanatuan City, SM Supermalls kicked off February with a highly successful job fair at SM City Cabanatuan, demonstrating how career opportunities can be meaningfully woven into local festivities. Held last February 3, the job fair brought together 32 employers and a thousand jobseekers, with 90 applicants hired on the spot— underscoring the impact of aligning employment initiatives with community celebrations. By integrating career opportunities into high-traffic events such as local holidays and festivals, SM Supermalls enhances the malling experience by offering purposeful activities that customers can conveniently engage with in their most-loved SM destinations. Beyond serving as venues for celebration, SM malls evolve into community platforms that create pathways to livelihood, growth, and long-term opportunity for Filipinos nationwide.

Flagship SM Group Job Fair set for February 26 at SM North EDSA

Culminating the month’s activities is the highly anticipatedSM Group Job Fair led by SM Retail on February 26 at SM City North EDSA—one of the strongest and most sought-after hiring events in the SM Job Fair calendar. Employers from across the SM Group—including retail, real estate, food, logistics, and banking—will be offering a wide range of opportunities, reinforcing why so many Filipinos aspire to join the SM family.

As the largest retail chain in the Philippines, SM Retail continues to champion a workplace where people truly belong, thrive, and grow. Job seekers can look forward to purposeful challenges, meaningful career opportunities, and a culture where efforts are recognized and celebrated—making it #SoMuchFun to build a career at SM Retail. Because at SM Retail, we’ve got it all for you—#OnlyAtSMRetail.

One-Stop Job Application Made Easy

SM Job Fairs go beyond job matching by offering on-site government services, allowing applicants to complete key employment requirements in one location. Participating agencies typically include the National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police, Social Security System, and PhilHealth, among others— saving jobseekers time, cost, and multiple trips.

The Art of Self-Luvin’ with SM Supermalls

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn press-releaseLeave a comment

Can you feel it? Love is in the air! But it’s not the kind that sweeps you off your feet, just the love that feels safe, warm, and homey. Self-love, of course!

Hey self-lovers, consider this a sign for you to slow down and to show yourself some well-deserved LUUUUV. Because this Heart’s Day, it’s no longer just about romance, it’s about keeping your heart happy, healthy, and glowing.

Through the melody of Olivia Dean, it really is so easy to fall in love—especially with the person who’s been with you through it all. And at your most loved mall, self-care comes as easy. Because from beauty essentials to wellness musts, we’re here to help you lean into the soft life, effortlessly unbothered. So mark your calendars, set the vibe, and celebrate love your way because #LuvIsYourVibeAtSM.

STEP 1: Cleanse Out Your Worries

Love needs breathin’, so let your self-LUV journey start with a clean base. Let go of the overthinking, the stress, and everything that’s been weighing you down. Reset the vibe, and give yourself a chance to clear space for a bolder, lighter version of you.

Aivee Clinic

Let Heart’s Day redefine what it’s like to destress and declutter. Revitalize your glow and go beyond skin deep with Aivee Clinic. Be prepared to welcome a brighter, new era of you. From tailored facials to advanced and doctor-led skin care treatments, your way to self-luvin’ is conveniently located here at the 5th Level, Mega Fashion Hall of SM Megamall. 

STEP 2: Treat Yourself To A Nail-Boosting Glow

Now, for the ba-ba-ba-baby steps. Because once the vibe is set, it’s time to step up the glow-up. The kind that instantly lifts your mood and reminds you that beauty has always been with you.

French Tips Organic Nail Lounge

Soft, natural, and oh-so-elegant… just like every nail art lover’s dream! Situated at SM Aura, French Tips Organic Nail Lounge gives your fingertips the glow up they deserve. Using organic-focused formulas and holistic approach to nail care, it’s the kind of self-care that looks good and feels even better.

Other Branches: SM Megamall, SM Podium 

Noon Talk Nail Lounge

Self-LUV should always feel like a celebration! Located at SM Mall of Asia, Noon Talk Nail Lounge can make every manicure feel like a milestone moment. With colors and finishes that frame your mood just right, this is where your nail glow-up gets personal and fun. 

Other Branches: SM Megamall

Ukiyo Beauty Bar

Make every look feel effortlessly put-together with minimalist hues and soft textures to match your vibe. At Ukiyo Beauty Bar, enjoy manicure and pedicure services you truly deserve. Its curated approach to nail care blends modern chic with timeless elegance, bringing in beauty with intention at S Maison. 

STEP 3: Moisturize Your Spirit, Protect Your Vibe

The final step? Lock it all in. Protect your peace, nourish your soul, and keep anything that disrupts your energy at bay. Let your freshly pampered self start anew. Softer, stronger, and glowing from the inside out.

Ayumi Elite

Extend the good vibrations and accessorize your look with intention. Experience the grooming techniques of Japan at SM Aura with Ayumi Elite, delivering an instant confidence boost through top-tier eyelash extension styling.

Other Branches: SM North Edsa, SM Mall of Asia, SM Podium 

The Spa Wellness

Seal in the softness through a deeply moisturizing treatment and wrap up your self-care journey at The Spa Wellness at the 5th Level of SM Podium, where peace meets pampering. From deeply relaxing massages to rich body treatments, this is your final moment to melt tension away, recharge your spirit, and walk out feeling all the LUUUV.

That’s the art of luvin’, and anyone with a heart would agree. It’s so easy to make yourself feel the love with SM Supermalls. Valentine’s Day or not, there’s always room to make time for care, calm, and a little indulgence.

This Valentine’s Day, #LuvIsYourVibeAtSM, your most loved mall of firsts and evolving finds. Because we’re here to make your Saturday night—and the rest of your life—filled with love.

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

Pursuit of a more biker-inclusive SM yields Record-breaking 36 wins from DOTr, Mobility Awards

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When the pandemic put the country in a standstill, many of the everyday yet vital services Filipinos had access to were revoked—one of which was transportation.The absence of public transportation due to social distancing effectively limited every household’s capability to commute for essentials, and many relied on biking as their lifeline. 

Recognizing the urgency in supporting its customers and surrounding communities during the challenges of the pandemic, SM Supermalls strengthened the drive for Active Mobility across all of its malls nationwide. Since then, the mall leader has become a home and advocate for Active Mobility, remaining consistent in forging spaces that not only accommodate but also protect bikers. 

Because of this effort, SM has won the trust and confidence of its stakeholders in advocating for sustainable travel, culminating in a record-breaking 34-win citation at the 2025 Mobility Awards.

 “What began as a heartfelt initiative to support bikers during COVID has now become an integrated bike program spanning every single SM mall in the country,” said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing, Joaquin San Agustin. “Active Mobility plays a crucial role not just in preserving the environment but in the enrichment of every Filipino. Thus, SM aims to continually foster the culture of biking across its properties by creating beloved places where movement is safe, easy, and inclusive for everyone.”

Active Mobility Advances Through Coaction

Through a collaboration between its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares, its mall operations, and biking communities, SM continues to refine itself as a bike-friendly space championing maxed-out Active Mobility, cycling, and inclusive transport.

“It started with us setting up parking spots exclusive to bikes to ease access for cyclists picking up essentials in our malls. Then, when the volume of cyclists picked up even as the lockdown eased, we knew we had to do more for them,” said Mina Kahn, SM Division Head and Assistant Vice President for Transportation Management. For the mall leader, this meant improving transport access through sustainable means, which could easily be replicated across its properties nationwide. This involved carving out dedicated spaces equipped with essential tools to safeguard and repair bikes, protecting bikes from scratches with upcycled tires cushioning racks, the introduction of intuitive bike lanes for biker safety, and the promotion of the culture of cycling.

From there, bike-friendly features have become staples even in recent developments and renovations, with plans to implement more secure bike parking, install more racks, and clearer cycling lanes around the malls. Cycling groups also found a conducive haven for activities at SM properties. Biking events were regularly encouraged and hosted, with surrounding tenants adjusting operating hours to accommodate cyclists, further promoting biking not just as a mode of transportation but as a lifestyle and sport one could enjoy.

This, in turn, earned SM a total of 34 accolades at the recent Mobility Awards: One Gold, 11 Silver, and 22 bronze for nationwide mall efforts in promoting and protecting cycling as a culture across its properties.

Additionally, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) cited SM’s sustainable approach as a demonstration of its leadership, innovation, and long-term commitment to making active transport safer and more accessible to Filipinos. Its Pedal Power 2025 program was highlighted for this year’s Notable Advocacy Program, and the SM Supermalls Sustainable Mobility and Bike-Friendly program received a citation for Notable Development by the Private Sector.

No plunder case, no guilt: Romualdez camp rebukes claims over flood control

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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.

From Hearts to Hands: Globe Coop Volunteers Bring Care and Connection to Orphaned Children

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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.

For more information about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

Fortune ranks TP among the top 10 World’s Best Workplaces 2025

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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. 

For more information: www.tp.com.

Vena Energy Secures Bronze Recognition at the AmCham 2025 Corporate Social Impact Awards, Affirming its Dedication to Community Welfare in the Philippines

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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.

For more information, please visit http://www.venagroup.com.

SM and Jobstreet Champion Filipino MSMEs at 2025 MSME Summit

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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.

What’s New at SM Supermalls Cebu? 

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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!