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Showing posts from February, 2025

#ColorsInBloomAtSM: A Burst of Color, Culture, and Celebration

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This year’s Panagbenga has been nothing short of a color spectacle showcasing Baguio’s arts and culture.  A key highlight of the event, The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit, brings the spirit of the Cordilleras to life through its artistry. This display features works by Kabunyan de Guia, Guiller Lagac, and Oliver Olivete—collectively known as The Mighty Bhutens. Their pieces, inspired by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, reflect a spontaneous, playful approach that remains true to the rich heritage of the region. The Food and Crafts Fair, running from February 17 – March 03, features local MSMEs presenting a variety of products, including souvenirs, foods, and delicacies. The Food Truck Fest at The Drive offers a unique mix of tastes and flavors from local culinary entrepreneurs. The Arts and Crafts activity sparks creativity among students from various schools as they repurposed past Panagbenga decors into sustainable art. Families enjoyed bonding at Family Art Day, while friends found i...

SM Strengthens Pivot to Solar PVs in Support of DOE’s Renewable Energy Goals

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As the world continues to grapple with depleting resources, the need for renewable energy has never been more urgent. Malls, as significant energy consumers, have a unique opportunity to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future by adopting renewable energy solutions that can significantly reduce their environmental impact. Understanding this, SM has been continuously ramping up its renewable energy initiatives by adopting solutions that lower its carbon footprint. One such solution is the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which provide clean and renewable energy by converting sunlight directly into electricity. This allows SM to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and contribute to a greener environment. Expanding solar power across SM malls As of February 2025, SM is nearing full operations for the solar PV systems installed in 45 of its properties across the country, with more slated for retrofitting soon. SM’s use of solar PV systems...

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Discover the Freshest Finds, Tastes, and Trends at the #HomeOfFirsts!

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Discover what’s next and what’s new at SM Supermalls—your ultimate destination for the freshest flavors, trendiest lifestyle finds, and exclusive collectibles. With exciting new openings and upcoming must-visit spots, there’s always something to look forward to! SM North EDSA Flavors to Savor Already satisfying cravings, Tonkotsu Kazan serves rich broth, tender pork, and premium noodles in every bowl of Japanese ramen. Bebang Halo-Halo delights with a fresh and creamy twist on the classic Filipino dessert, while Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu excites meat lovers with its iconic gyukatsu, a perfect mix of tradition and innovation. Marking a milestone in its expansion, Milksha debuts its first-ever in the Philippines concept store at SM North EDSA. Bringing its signature premium bubble tea experience to an even bigger audience, offering refreshing bubble tea made with premium milk and tea leaves.  Trendsetting Styles & Lifestyle Must-Haves Dr. Martens is already making bold style statem...

SM Viyline MSME Caravan: Strengthening Community Ties at SM City Baguio

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The much-anticipated second leg of the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan is set to take place at SM City Baguio from February 19-25, 2025, bringing together an exciting array of MSMEs and community members for a dynamic shopping experience. This collaboration between Viyline and SM aims to boost local businesses while promoting community engagement, and the event is poised to be a game-changer for MSMEs in the region.  A highlight of the event will be the presence of Viy Cortez, renowned influencer and wife of popular YouTuber CONG TV. Known for her strong online following and influence, Viy Cortez will grace the opening ceremony, adding a touch of excitement and star power to the event. Her involvement in this initiative underscores the significance of the MSME Caravan as an opportunity to elevate the community.  The Viyline MSME Caravan is more than just a bazaar—it’s a collaborative effort to strengthen the local economy, support budding entreprene...

SM Prime and DENR Bolster Manila Bay Cleanup Efforts with High-Tech Trash Boat

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In a joint effort for Manila Bay, SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime), together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), was present for the handover of a state-of-the-art catamaran trash boat to complement the ongoing battle against water pollution. DENR received the boat last January 31, along with essential navigation and safety equipment as well as cleaning tools. The 30-foot catamaran will be operated by the DENR Metropolitan Environmental Office - South Zone and will contribute to the agency's capacity to combat water pollution and preserve the vital marine ecosystem. This donation strengthens the DENR's arsenal in its multifaceted approach to cleaning Manila Bay. The catamaran will enable more efficient removal of floating debris and waste, contributing to the broader effort to improve water quality and restore the bay's ecological health. The partnership with SM Prime exemplifies the power of public-private collaborations in tackling complex environ...

SM Book Nook Reading Festival Brings Filipino Stories to Life at SM Aura

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The SM Book Nook Reading Festival, held on January 31, 2025, at the Book Nook in SM Aura, drew 500 book lovers of all ages for a dynamic celebration of Filipino literature and creativity. From engaging author meet-and-greets to lively performances and informative workshops, the festival offered a rich array of literary experiences. Interactive storytelling and inspiration One of the festival's highlights was the launch of SM Book Nook's innovative "Pass the Plot" board. This interactive activity encouraged participants to co-create a story, sentence by sentence, showcasing their collective creativity. A major highlight of the event was the presence of renowned literary personalities such as National Artist for Literature Virgilio Almario (Rio Alma), Dean Tony Laviña, Hans Pieter Arao, and Jayson Fajardo. Attendees had the unique opportunity to connect with these esteemed authors, get their books signed, and engage in insightful conversations. The festival also showcas...

ARISE Philippines Holds First Annual General Meeting, Setting the Stage for a Resilient 2030

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The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE) Philippines, a leading resilience network in the country, held its first annual general meeting for 2025 on January 27 at the ARISE Secretariat headquarters in MOA Square, Mall of Asia Complex. With a growing membership of 156 private sector companies, civil society groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic institutions, ARISE Philippines is poised to significantly impact disaster resilience efforts nationwide. Under the theme “Catalyzing Progress for a Resilient and Sustainable Future towards ARISE 2030,” the meeting was grounded in the words “Innovate, Integrate, and Elevate,” urging members to embrace new approaches, collaborate across sectors, and raise the bar for disaster resilience standards.  The Co-Chair representing the private sector, Engr. Liza Silerio, welcomed the collective and expressed her gratitude for the network’s role ...

Bringing Light and Hope: SM Cares Partners with Global Peace Foundation to Empower Sustainable Communities

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SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, has joined hands with the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Philippines to support the transformative All Lights Village project. This partnership was solidified with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on February 14, 2025, at the SM Prime Headquarters, marking another significant step forward in promoting sustainable development and empowering underprivileged communities in off-grid areas. The All Lights Village project, spearheaded by GPF Philippines, is an innovative initiative designed to improve the quality of life for families living in rural areas without access to electricity. By providing solar lighting, educational resources, and livelihood opportunities, the program is creating brighter futures for these communities while championing clean energy solutions and sustainable growth. A Shared Commitment to Uplifting Communities Through this partnership, SM Cares will provide spaces in SM Aura, SM Megamal...

Discover Milksha's First Concept Store at SM North EDSA – Your Ultimate Destination for Pure, Fresh, and Natural Milk Tea

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Milksha, Taiwan’s beloved milk tea brand, proudly opens its first-ever concept store in the Philippines!  Get ready for a delightful sip filled with pure, fresh, and natural milk tea creations made with the finest ingredients. Officially opening its doors at SM North EDSA, the Milksha concept store is inviting even more Filipinos to experience its fresh and most flavorful milk tea straight from Taiwan.  Milksha has become a global sensation, celebrated for its commitment to quality and its dedication to crafting pure, fresh, and natural beverages. Each drink is hand-made with care–from the finest tea leaves to freshly made chewy honey pearls–to create a symphony of textures and flavors. By using only real ingredients and no powders, Milksha delivers a velvety creaminess and the bold, full-bodied taste of authentic tea, satisfying cravings and delighting taste buds with every sip.  Fresh. Pure. Authentic. Milksha’s secret to success? It’s the flavors enhanced by special in...

Explore the New Wave of Shopping and Dining at SM North EDSA: New on The Block and Beyond

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SM North EDSA continues to redefine the shopping and dining scene with an exciting array of new tenants across its sprawling mall. Brimming with new experiences—from Milksha's first-ever concept store in the Philippines to exciting store openings—here’s what awaits you at The Block and beyond. The Block: A Hub of Exciting New Stores Step into The Block at SM North EDSA, where a fresh wave of stores and attractions awaits. From unique dining experiences to specialty shops and immersive adventures, The Block is your destination for exciting discoveries and memorable moments. Tonkotsu Kazan (The Block, Ground Floor) Indulge in the rich flavors of authentic Japanese ramen at Tonkotsu Kazan, now serving its signature dishes at SM North EDSA. Known for its perfectly crafted noodles, flavorful broth, and tender roasted pork, this ramen house brings a dining experience steeped in tradition. Every bowl is a celebration of Japanese precision and hospitality, or omotenashi, making it a must-t...