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 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.
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.
For the mall leader, this meant improving transport access through sustainable means it could easily replicate 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.
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.
What if one day could shape both how you work and how you earn? Trabaho at Negosyo brings employment and entrepreneurship together—redefining the job fair as a career launchpad that connects Filipinos to jobs, mentoring, and skills for what comes next.
Thousands participated as Go Negosyo, in partnership with SM Supermalls, mounted the March 6 Trabaho at Negosyo at SM Mall of Asia—transforming a single day into a career crossroads all for Filipinos. Fully supported by SM Job Fairs and SM for MSMEs, this comprehensive event created vital community opportunities by matching job seekers with employers and providing aspiring entrepreneurs with expert mentorship and clear pathways to success.
“MSMEs like us contribute to the economy because as we expand, so does our requirements – like manpower, so we are able to contribute through creating jobs.” – JORGE WIENEKE of Tokyo Tempura
At the heart of the event was a large-scale job fair connecting applicants with employers from key sectors including BPO and IT, manufacturing, construction, real estate, healthcare and medical services, retail, financial services, tourism, hotels and restaurants, and the academe. Just steps away, aspiring entrepreneurs received practical mentoring on how to turn business ideas, side hustles, and small enterprises into sustainable ventures—demonstrating how trabaho and negosyo can grow side by side.
“Nakakatuwa po, ang bilis. In-expect ko po babalik pa ako. Masaya po ako, hindi na ako tambay! Sa tingin ko po mago-grow po ako sa bago kong work.” – MA. FLOREBEL QUILILAN, Hired on the Spot by Hi Precision.
To further streamline the journey from application to employment, SM Government Service Express enabled participants to process key requirements on-site. Participating agencies included the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Social Security System (SSS), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth), and the Pag-IBIG Fund—making essential services more accessible in one convenient location.
“Maganda po na nandito sa ganitong event, kasi we’re not just hiring, but we’re also on the lookout for opportunities for our business with the other businesses here, para po to compliment each other.”- MELODY ADVIENTO of Clinica Manila
Trabaho at Negosyo tells a bigger story—today’s job seeker can become tomorrow’s employer. By combining job matching, MSME mentoring, and government services in one space, the initiative reflects a forward-thinking approach to workforce development where employment and entrepreneurship reinforce each other.
Through collaborations like this, SM Supermalls continues to strengthen its commitment to empowering Filipinos—championing both livelihoods and local enterprises, and proving that when trabaho and negosyo move together, communities move forward.
Major race events at SM malls in Cebu and SM Mall of Asia bring runners together through SM Active Hub lifestyle and sports programs
SM2SM run now on its 14th year where runners race from SM Seaside and SM City Cebu
SM Supermalls strengthened its position as one of the country’s premier running destinations as more than 32,000 runners filled two major race events in Cebu and SM Mall of Asia this weekend.
From large scale road races to women led running communities, SM spaces transformed into vibrant race venues where runners gathered to compete, celebrate milestones, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
As running continues to surge across the Philippines, many runners now look for venues that offer safe routes, accessible locations, and strong community support. Across its nationwide network, SM Supermalls has become a natural hub for runners, hosting major race events while providing everyday spaces where communities can train and grow. Today, this ecosystem spans 24 malls with dedicated running paths, supports 45 active running clubs, and has mounted 55 running events to date, reinforcing SM Supermalls’ position as a leading platform for the country’s growing running community.
SM2SM Run energizes Cebu’s running community
In Cebu, the SM2SM Run 2026 gathered 15,500 runners for its 14th year, marking historic highs for the event and reinforcing its place as one of the region’s biggest running events. Women made up 40% of participants, a record share that reflects the growing participation of women in the country’s running community.
The race connected two iconic landmarks, starting at SM Seaside City Cebu and finishing at SM City Cebu, turning the city into a high energy celebration of fitness and community.
The excitement extended beyond the finish line when one lucky participant won the grand raffle prize, a BYD Shark 6. The prize also reflects the growing shift toward electric mobility in the Philippines. Across more than 90 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls has built one of the country’s largest electric vehicle charging networks, allowing guests to conveniently charge their vehicles for free during mall hours while they dine, shop, or spend time with family. Through this integrated network, SM actively promotes the shift to cleaner mobility by making EV adoption more practical, accessible, and part of everyday consumer behavior.
The grand raffle winner, Desiree Villadolid, enjoyed a moment that perfectly matched the scale and excitement of the maxed-out SM2SM Run, adding another memorable highlight to race day.
Women’s Run celebrates strength and community
Meanwhile at SM Mall of Asia, 16,500 runners joined the 2026 Filipina CEO Circle (FCC) Women’s Run PH in celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s Month. Of the total participants, 90% were women runners, highlighting the strong and growing movement of women embracing running as a lifestyle.
Now on its third year with FCC as title sponsor and SM Supermalls as co presenter, the run continues to grow as a national platform that promotes women’s health, empowerment, and community through running.
Thousands of women ran along the scenic seaside roads of SM Mall of Asia under the theme Strength, Grace, and Honor, creating an inspiring atmosphere of encouragement and shared achievement.
SM Active Hub anchors running communities
Supporting these growing events is SM Active Hub, the sports and wellness platform of SM Supermalls that builds active communities across its malls.
From everyday training routes to major race weekends, SM Supermalls continues to create spaces where runners can move, connect, and experience life to the max.
Your most loved mall, SM Supermalls. Where lifestyle, community, and maxed out experiences come together. All for you.
“Apatnapu’t dalawa kaming kababaihan sa aming barangay na dati ay walang hanapbuhay. Sa tulong ng aming kooperatiba at ng DTI, nagkaroon kami ng pagkakataong kumita. Lalo na kapag nandito kami sa SM Supermalls—mas dumadami ang aming bulk orders.” — Elsie Balidiong, Salngan Livelihood Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Oton, Iloilo
MANILA, Philippines, 23th February 2026 – The 2026 DTI–Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair concluded at SM Megamall after five days of showcasing Filipino enterprise, creativity, and resilience—bringing together MSMEs, institutional buyers, and consumers in a highly accessible, high-engagement setting that turned commerce into a shared public experience.
DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque and DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Bautista together with Embassy Officials and stakeholders mark the opening of the DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair 2026, highlighting how accessible platforms like SM Supermalls help bring national initiatives closer to the public (Right photo)
DTI Key Officials mark the opening of the National Trade Fair 2026, highlighting how accessible platforms like SM Supermalls help bring national initiatives closer to the public.
SM executives (L-R) Mr. Royston Cabunag, AVP for SM Communities Program, Ms. Liza Silerio, VP for Corporate Compliance Group, Ms. Pats Dy, SAVP for SM Communities Marketing try on hand-embroidered, fashion-forward pieces by an indigenous artisan from Abra—bringing stories from the mountains to the heart of the city. Through DTI and SM, indigenous MSMEs gain wider market access, celebrating culture, craftsmanship, and inclusive growth in one shared space.
“It’s rare to find a place where you can get the chance to buy the best of the Philippines, and it’s good that it’s in a very accessible location.”
-Ezekiel Rosales and Michelle Milla – Trade Fair Customers
“Nakakatuwa po na naipapakita namin ang aming mga gawa sa ibang lugar. Kasabay po noon ay kumikita pa kami.”
– Jezriff Anni – Zambulu Artworks
“Ang galing po kasi noon, doon lang kami sa bayan namin sa Aklan nakakapagbenta. Ngayon po, two years na kami nakakasali sa trade fairs and lumawak na po ang market namin. May mga orders na po kami galing sa ibang lugar.”
-Jezethel Bandiola – Bandiola’s Piña Weaving
The staging of the National Trade Fair at SM Megamall highlighted how well-loved, high-traffic urban spaces can function as effective platforms for national programs—giving MSMEs the opportunity to reach new markets, test products in real time, and engage directly with partners and consumers.
“Our partnership with SM goes beyond providing space—it is about building a full ecosystem for MSMEs. Through SM Supermalls and its retail businesses like SM Department Store, SM Markets, and Kultura, MSMEs are given real market access, visibility, and opportunities to scale. This kind of private-sector commitment is exactly what enables Filipino entrepreneurs to grow, professionalize, and contribute meaningfully to inclusive national development,” said Cris Roque, Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry
By supporting nationally significant trade fairs, SM Supermalls broadens MSME reach through accessible, high-visibility locations, supports business growth through professional environments designed for market readiness, and contributes to nation-building by aligning its mall infrastructure with programs that generate livelihood and strengthen local industries.
The National Trade Fair fostered a powerful sense of shared purpose where commerce, culture, and community converged reinforcing the belief that economic growth is most meaningful when it is inclusive, experiential, and deeply connected to the people it serves.
As demonstrated by the 2026 DTI–Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair, SM Supermalls continues to deliver on its commitment on Max Out Experiences, living out its promise of “All for You.” As your most loved mall, SM Supermalls transforms its spaces into dynamic platforms for entrepreneurship, cultural celebration, and meaningful public engagement going beyond retail to champion inclusive national growth and create experiences thoughtfully designed for every Filipino.
WomenBizPH Trade Fair successfully opened at SM Lanang Premier from March 12–14, celebrating the creativity, resilience, and growing impact of Filipina micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Organized by WomenBizPH in partnership with SM Supermalls, the three-day trade fair brought together inspiring women entrepreneurs showcasing a vibrant mix of proudly local products—from artisanal pastries and handcrafted accessories to healthy snacks, woven apparel, delicacies, and wellness products.
Women entrepreneurs take center stage at the WomenBizPH Trade Fair at SM Lanang Premier, where women-led MSMEs proudly showcased local products in celebration of Women’s Month.
Filipina entrepreneurs proudly present their brands at the WomenBizPH Trade Fair, highlighting the creativity, resilience, and innovation of women-led MSMEs.
MSMEs showcased a diverse array of Filipino creations at the WomenBizPH Trade Fair.
Sustainable fashion takes the spotlight as women-led brands present handcrafted apparel that celebrates Filipino craftsmanship and modern design.
Behind every product on display is a powerful story of determination, innovation, and purpose. Across the country, women entrepreneurs continue to transform challenges into opportunities, building businesses that uplift communities and preserve Filipino craftsmanship.
Empowering Artisans Through Creativity Sustainable and timeless—these two words define the aesthetic of Sassy’s Creation Enterprise, a brand where traditional Philippine craftsmanship meets modern innovation. By blending heritage weaving techniques with contemporary design, Sassy’s Creation produces ethically curated fashion staples designed for EveryBODY, using upcycled fabrics and locally sourced weaves that reflect both sustainability and style.
Behind every Sassy piece are the skilled hands of women artisans, including home-based mothers and women from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Antipolo, Rizal, who carefully craft each item with dedication and pride.
Through these collaborations, the brand provides meaningful livelihood opportunities while celebrating Filipino craftsmanship. By working closely with weaving communities and showcasing their handcrafted pieces through trade fairs and retail platforms, Sassy’s Creation continues to help preserve traditional Filipino crafts while bringing them into today’s lifestyle and fashion landscape. Discover their products on Instagram: @sassyscreationph
Carrying Forward a Legacy
For Cynthia M. Eusebio, owner of Magpoc’s Pastry Products Manufacturing in Bataan, entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in family heritage.
Now a third-generation leader of the brand, Eusebio continues to innovate by expanding Magpoc’s reach through digital platforms and new product offerings while preserving the traditional recipes that built the business. Discover their products on Facebook: MagpocsAraroCookies
From Survival to Strength
For Cebu-based entrepreneur Cuevas Planas, founder of Kirby’s Chicharon, her business journey represents resilience and the courage to start over.
Through perseverance and faith, Planas built her brand from humble beginnings, eventually gaining the confidence to showcase her products in larger markets and trade fairs. Discover their products on
Facebook: kirbyschicharonph
Turning Passion into Healthy Innovation
Meanwhile, Flaviano’s Health Food Products, based in Laguna, was born from a shared passion for creating innovative food products.
Today, the brand continues to develop healthier food options while exploring new opportunities to reach more customers through platforms like SM Supermalls. Discover their products on Facebook: FlavianosFood
SM Supermalls: A Launchpad for Future Filipino Brands
Through initiatives like the WomenBizPH Trade Fairs, SM Supermalls continues to serve as a marketplace where MSMEs can grow, gain visibility, and reach new markets.
“At SM Supermalls, we see MSMEs not just as exhibitors but as future brands in the making. By providing accessible platforms where entrepreneurs can showcase their products and connect with customers, we help nurture the next generation of Filipino brands,” said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls.
For many entrepreneurs, showcasing their products in SM malls represents a major milestone—opening doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and customers.
This commitment reflects SM Supermalls’ long-standing advocacy of supporting MSMEs as drivers of inclusive economic growth and community development.
Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs
This Women’s Month, SM Supermalls invites shoppers to discover the inspiring women behind these brands and support their journeys toward growth and success.
Because when women entrepreneurs rise, they do more than grow businesses—they uplift families, empower communities, and inspire the next generation of leaders.
One of the strongest highlights of the job fair was the number of applicants hired on the spot (HOTS), showcasing the efficiency and accessibility of SM’s hiring ecosystem.
For many job seekers, the experience was nothing short of life-changing. Through on-site interviews and real-time assessments, applicants were able to move quickly from application to employment—removing the long waiting periods often associated with traditional recruitment.
A job fair that works for real people
This immediate hiring momentum reflects SM Retail’s consistently strong hiring demand and absorption rates, ensuring that SM Job Fairs translate into real jobs—not just applications.
Employers meet job-ready talent, faster
Employers likewise cited the effectiveness of SM Job Fairs in reaching the right candidates efficiently.
Meanwhile, financial services firms highlighted the long-term success of hires from SM Job Fairs.
Strengthening employment through public-private collaboration
“Malaki ang tulong ng SM Supermalls sa PESO at DOLE,” said Jon Tito, Group Leader of QC PESO. “Kinakalat nila ang opportunities para sa mga naghahanap ng trabaho.”
SM Government Service Express: making hiring easier, faster
To further simplify the employment journey, the job fair featured SM Government Service Express, a one-stop hub where applicants could process pre-employment requirements in one location.
“Pinapadali ng ganitong job fairs ang mga oportunidad para sa jobseekers,” explained Adolf Hernandez of PhilHealth QC. “May hired on the spot ka na, at nandito na rin ang mga government agencies para sa requirements.”
Bringing opportunities closer, nationwide
Following the strong turnout at SM City North EDSA, SM Supermalls continues to bring job opportunities closer to Filipinos with a series of job fairs nationwide this March:
March 4 – SM Center Antipolo
March 6 – SM Mall of Asia
March 11 – SM City Davao
March 13 – SM City Trece Martires
March 20 – SM City North EDSA
March 25 – SM City Urdaneta Central
March 26 – SM City Tuguegarao
March 27 – SM City Trece Martires
Job seekers are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resume, valid IDs, and other basic pre-employment requirements, and to arrive early to maximize interview opportunities. Admission to SM Job Fairs is free and open to the public, unless otherwise specified.
For updates on schedules and participating employers, applicants may visit SM Supermalls’ official social media pages or inquire at the customer service desk of participating malls.
Turning malls into platforms for opportunity
The continued success of the SM Job Fair highlights how the country’s most loved malls are evolving beyond retail becoming platforms that deliver real-world solutions for Filipinos.
By bringing together employers, job seekers, and government agencies in one accessible space, SM Supermalls continues to max out experiences—turning malls into hubs where careers begin, requirements are completed, and futures move forward.
At SM Supermalls, opportunities don’t just exist—they feel possible.
We are all about that stan life. A new album from a rising artist? Fanboy/fangirl mode activated. A freshly opened concept store? Consider us a fan. Entering your fitness era? Support. Whether it’s a personality we love or a lifestyle we aspire to, as long as it resonates with the life we want, we are stanning hard.
Here at SM Supermalls, you don’t need to look any further. Everything—and we mean everything—that will get you hyped up for months is right here. From the hottest new finds across Luzon to everyday essentials that hit different, these stores have us hooked, and we just cannot get enough. As your most-loved mall, SM continues to be an icon worthy of all our attention.
Pho Hoa A fan of Vietnamese classics? The soon-to-open, first-in-Cavite Pho Hoa at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Bacoor serves soulful bowls of pho, alongside staple sides like spring rolls, vermicelli bowls, and flavorful rice plates. With meals that’ll remind you of your last trip to Vietnam, Pho Hoa is the perfect spot to savor the familiar flavors of the country.
Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings For all our buffalo wings stans, the first-in-Bulacan Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings at the West Wing of SM City Marilao brings its iconic variations to the table, with flavors ranging from classic buffalo to garlic parmesan and honey sriracha. Craving wings? This is your chance to dig in until you drop.
Manam And if you’re simply a fan of home, Manam in the Ground Level of SM City Marilao is your best pick! The first-in-Bulacan, Manam elevates Filipino comfort food with creative twists. Ever heard of their iconic Watermelon Beef Sinigang? Yep, that’s Manam for you!
ICONIC—SM Supermalls stan here! From the best in fitness and wellness to dining concepts you’re sure to love, whatever you’re stanning in life, your most-loved SM Supermalls has got it all for you.
Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.
MANILA, Philippines, 13th March 2026 – For three decades, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) has steadfastly advanced responsible water stewardship for a more resilient water future through SM Supermalls, its operating arm.
SM Prime invested in its first Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in the late 90’s with SM Southmall. STPs are essential for protecting public health and the environment, along with supporting community development. Since then, STPs have become a standard fixture in all 89 malls, reducing water waste and pollution, and safeguarding water resources.
SM Supermalls embeds water conservation practices across its operations. Recycled water is used in water closets for flushing, cleaning, and watering greens. Additionally, efficient low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies prevent unnecessary consumption at scale.
“SM had always been conscious of its environmental impact on shared social good. Our water journey is rooted in our commitment to maximize what we borrow from the environment, creating resiliency for future generations,” said Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President and Head of Sustainability and Resilience.
Today, SM is evaluating centralized STPs that can serve multiple developments and allow for inter-building treatment systems, lowering operational costs, and enhancing process efficiency. “Part of our water resilience framework is building long-term capacity for water disruptions. Since the standardization of STPs across our malls, SM took it a step further and scaled its water sustainability efforts,” said Silerio.
A first in the industry, SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility has already processed almost 20,000 cubic meters of rainwater into potable water since it was launched, providing 30% of the mall’s total monthly clean water requirement since 2023. This translates to saving the equivalent of 12.7 million, 1.5-liter mineral water bottles or almost eight Olympic-sized swimming pools of freshwater from the grid.
Leveraging the mall’s nationwide reach, SM further campaigns sustainable water use through consistent awareness and engagement, SM creates public awareness and education campaigns through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares to activate future water stewards in the community.
This proactive and efficient approach resulted in SM malls receiving multiple industry distinctions such as the Bantayog ng Lawa Award from the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) and the first ever Gawad Taga-Ilog Award bestowed upon a private entity by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
“We’ve come a long way since the 90’s. It’s heartwarming to be recognized by our community and peers, but we continue to work harder for future generations because water is a universal human right. By implementing these sustainability measures, SM aims to move forward with greater purpose and greater possibilities,” said Silerio.
The ceremonial opening marks the launch of Vinta Market, a vibrant marketplace dedicated to showcasing proudly local products from MSMEs across the Zamboanga Peninsula.
Launched in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 9 and the SM for MSMEs program, the Vinta Market brings together 20 local MSMEs, showcasing proudly regional products ranging from handcrafted items and artisanal goods to local delicacies, fashion pieces, and unique souvenirs.
SM Supermalls executives and DTI Region 9 officials lead the ceremonial opening of the Vinta Market at SM City Zamboanga, celebrating a new platform for local MSMEs. (L-R: DTI Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Director, Ma. Rovie Manzanares; DTI Zamboanga City Office Provincial Director, Grace Aduca; SM Supermalls AVP for SM Communities Program, Royston Cabunag; DTI Regional Director Al-Zamir Lipae; SM Supermalls SAVP for SM Communities Marketing, Pats Dy; DTI Assistant Regional Director, Maridel Dengal; and SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing, Joaquin San Agustin)
“With their trainings and seminars, we’ve learned a lot… we’re proud to say that we supply all over the Philippines—and with SM Supermalls, our products can reach around the country and are now in the mainstream market,” shared Shaun Alavar of Alavar Food Products, reflecting the broader growth opportunities enabled through the partnership.
Featured MSMEs proudly showcase their locally made products at the Vinta Market, highlighting the passion and dedication behind every creation.
During the launch event, SM Supermalls executives, DTI officials, and partner stakeholders joined entrepreneurs and guests in celebrating the opening of the marketplace—highlighting a shared commitment to empower local businesses and provide them with greater market opportunities.
Visitors explored booths filled with proudly local products—each representing stories of craftsmanship, passion, and perseverance. The marketplace quickly became a vibrant hub where mallgoers discovered unique regional goods while supporting local livelihoods.
The launch of Vinta Market stands as one of the highlights of the opening of SM City Zamboanga, the city’s newest lifestyle destination, bringing together shopping, dining, entertainment, and community experiences closer to Zamboangueños.
Locally made delicacies from MSMEs offer shoppers a taste of Zamboanga’s rich culinary heritage at the Vinta Market.
Through initiatives like the Vinta Market, SM Supermalls continues to champion Filipino entrepreneurship, providing MSMEs with accessible platforms to grow their businesses while celebrating the rich culture and creativity of local communities.
As shoppers explore the colorful stalls and meet the passionate makers behind the products, the Vinta Market stands as a vibrant symbol of Zamboanga’s thriving entrepreneurial spirit—where tradition, creativity, and opportunity sail forward together.
Readers and supporters of inspiring leadership will gather for a special magazine signing event featuring billionaire, philanthropist, and sportsman Mikee Romero, who graces the March cover of Rising Tigers Magazine.
The event will take place on March 12, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at National Book Store inside SM Mall of Asia.
Organized by Rising Tigers Magazine, the gathering offers readers a rare opportunity to personally meet the distinguished leader featured in the publication. The magazine signing will be led by Andrew Troy Nicolas, chairman of Tag Media Group, who continues to champion stories of leadership, governance, and community service through the organization’s media platforms.
Romero has been named “Man of the Year” by Rising Tigers Magazine, recognizing a lifetime of national impact defined by vision, execution, and service that reaches every corner of the Philippines—across business, public service, sports, military leadership, and humanitarian action.
He is recognized for repeatedly turning ideas into vision—and vision into action—building multimillion-dollar companies from the ground up and transforming them into industry-leading enterprises in port terminals across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, as well as in logistics, aviation, real estate, power generation, and renewable energy. These ventures have strengthened national connectivity, trade, job creation, and energy security. His entrepreneurial excellence was affirmed early when, at age 40, he became the youngest Filipino included in the 2013 Forbes Philippines 50 Richest list.
In public service, Romero stands out as one of the most productive lawmakers in Philippine history. As a three-term congressman and former Senior Deputy Speaker, he authored and co-authored more than 1,200 bills, with 148 enacted into Republic Acts during his tenure. These include landmark legislation such as Free College Tuition, Universal Healthcare, the Mental Health Act, the Eddie Garcia Law, and the strengthening of the 4Ps program, reshaping education, healthcare, and social protection for millions of Filipinos.
His national influence also extends strongly into sports development. Romero has played a key role in elevating and professionalizing national sports federations, strengthening governance, improving athlete support systems, and helping Filipino athletes compete successfully on the international stage—contributing to national pride and the long-term development of sports institutions.
Beyond enterprise, policy, and sports, his leadership is deeply anchored in humanitarian service. As a Full Colonel in the Philippine Air Force Reserve, he contributed to efforts supporting the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, including initiatives that helped enable the acquisition of three C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, vital for defense, disaster response, and humanitarian missions.
Romero has also led and supported relief operations during typhoons and floods in Central Luzon and earthquakes in Cebu and Davao. His humanitarian missions have reached some of the country’s most remote communities—from Mavulis and Itbayat in the north, Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea, to Mapun and Taganak in the far south, and even the mountainous areas of North Cotabato. He has also spent Christmas with Aeta communities in Pampanga and Zambales, bringing food, clothing, toys, and hope to indigenous families.
The Rising Tigers Magazine “Man of the Year” recognition honors Romero not for a single achievement, but for a sustained record of building industries, passing transformative legislation, elevating sports, strengthening national defense, and serving the most vulnerable—measured by lives touched, communities reached, and a nation strengthened.
During the event, guests will also have the opportunity to interact with Romero alongside special guests from the Capital1 Solar Spikers.
“We’re the only publication that can hold magazine signing events at National Book Stores nationwide, and it has become a meaningful platform for our leaders to connect with readers. We’re grateful to National Book Store for this partnership,” said Grace Bondad Nicolas (EIC and CEO of Rising Tigers Magazine)
Supporters, readers, and members of the public are expected to attend and take part in an engaging afternoon of dialogue, inspiration, and an exclusive magazine signing experience.
Event Details: Date: March 12, 2026 Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Venue: National Book Store
For media inquiries and event details, interested parties may contact the organizers of Rising Tigers Magazine at +63 977 897 8877 or president@rising-tigers.asia
Philippine Updates 