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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/SM Prime Holdings Inc.) |
SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) Executive Committee Chairman Hans Sy reaffirmed the vital role of the private sector in disaster risk reduction (DRR) during the 2025 Global Platform of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), held in Geneva, Switzerland. Representing the Philippine private sector at the Ministerial Roundtable on “Accelerating Financing And Resilience”, Sy underscored how businesses can help drive scalable, science-based resilience solutions.
Sy stated, “Resilience strengthens businesses while safeguarding lives and communities. We know the government cannot do it alone. The private sector is ready to do more.” He cited SM Prime’s integrated approach to DRR which includes allocating a significant portion of project costs to disaster-resilient infrastructure and applying science-driven planning frameworks. Sy also pointed to cross-sector initiatives such as the Adopt-A-City Program with the National Resilience Council and joint capacity-building programs with ARISE Philippines and the Department of Trade and Industry as examples of effective public-private partnerships. In a High-Level Dialogue on scaling DRR financing, Sy outlined SM Prime’s approach to mainstreaming resilience across its developments. He highlighted features such as elevated mall structures, built-in rainwater catchment systems, and earthquake-resistant designs — solutions that have minimized disruption and enabled rapid recovery in the face of disaster. He said, “Disasters may be unpredictable, but their impacts don’t have to be. We can — and must — prepare, mitigate, and adapt.”
To expand DRR financing, Sy called for enabling mechanisms that combine policy support, institutional cooperation, and targeted incentives. He noted, “From the standpoint of the private sector, financial, non-financial and regulatory incentives are among the most effective ways to accelerate investment in resilience.” His remarks underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and long-term thinking in building resilient communities. SM Prime’s leadership in DRR continues to set a benchmark for sustainable development in disaster-prone regions. He concluded, “Together, we can embed resilience to build a sustainable and secure future for all.”
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Art Takes Over SM Supermalls With “Art For Everyone”
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| (Image Source: Pilipinas Daily/SM Supermalls) |
SM Supermalls continues its unwavering support for Filipino artistry with the nationwide launch of Art for Everyone — a month-long celebration of creativity, culture, and community across 18 malls this July. Building on the remarkable success of the 2024 Art Market which earned the prestigious Gold Stevie® Award for Innovation in the Use of Events, SM Supermalls continues to elevate its commitment to championing the local art scene. Last year’s Art Market featured over 1,200 Filipino artists and showcased more than 4,000 artworks, providing a platform that not only celebrated local creativity but also offered meaningful support to emerging and established artists alike. The overwhelming success of the event sparked renewed enthusiasm within the community, with many of last year’s participating artists eager to return, a testament to the event’s impact and SM’s growing role as a catalyst for Filipino creative expression.
Now, Art For Everyone expands that vision. This year’s initiative transforms participating malls into vibrant art destinations, where both well-known and budding local artists can exhibit to sell their works, engage with new audiences, and contribute to a flourishing creative community. Throughout July, guests can immerse themselves in a rich artistic expression — from paintings, photography, and prints to digital art, mixed media, and sculpture — all proudly created by homegrown talent. The program invites art enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds to explore and celebrate Filipino creativity. Art For Everyone is more than just an art fair — it’s a celebration of the imagination, passion, and skill of local artists. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a budding artist, or someone looking to discover a new favorite artist, there’s something here for you. Visit these participating SM malls on the following dates, browse the incredible works on display, and discover your new favorite artist. Spark inspiration, ignite your own creativity, and share the experience with family and friends.
• SM City Clark – July 1-14
• SM J Mall – July 1-14
• SM Lanang – July 7-16
• SM City Baguio – July 13-26
• SM Seaside City Cebu – July 14-31
• SM City Sorsogon – July 15-28
• SM City Iloilo – July 15-31
• SM City Bacolod – July 15-31
• SM Center Dagupan – July 16-30
• SM City Baliwag – July 18-31
• SM City Dasmariñas – July 20-27
• SM CDO Downtown – July 20-30
• SM City Santa Rosa – July 21-27
• SM Center Angono – July 21-31
• The Podium – July 22-27
• SM City North EDSA – July 25-31
• SM Aura – August 15-24
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Waves Of Change: Thousands Join SM Cares’ Coastal Cleanup In Celebration Of World Oceans Day 2025
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/SM Supermalls) |
In celebration of World Oceans Day 2025, over 5,000 volunteers from all walks of life united last June 7, 2025 for a massive nationwide coastal cleanup led by SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls. Collectively, they removed an astounding 30,000 kilograms of trash from shorelines across the Philippines — proving that when a community comes together, real impact happens. This year’s theme, “WONDER: Sustaining What Sustains Us”, resonated deeply as volunteers took to coastlines in Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, armed with gloves, sacks, and a shared mission: to protect the oceans that give us life.
Beyond fostering community collaboration and promoting environmental responsibility, SM Cares’ coastal cleanup initiative played a vital role in cultivating healthier environment, enhancing the overall quality of life for local residents, and contributing to the long-term preservation of marine ecosystems. “The oceans sustain us every day, and now it’s our turn to give back. This coastal cleanup isn’t just a one-day event — it’s a symbol of our shared duty to preserve biodiversity and inspire action for a sustainable future, while bringing lasting positive impacts to the community by advancing healthier coastal spaces, and uniting people through shared environmental action,” said SM Cares Program Director for the Environment Engr. Liza Silerio. From students and teachers to LGUs, NGO partners, employees, and security and janitorial teams, the cleanup drew a diverse wave of ocean defenders. SM Cares worked closely with local government units, environmental organizations, youth groups, and coastal barangays to stage cleanups across several major sites nationwide. These collaborations not only ensured the success of the initiative but also highlighted the power of inclusive, community-driven action. Volunteers gathered to remove tons of waste from shorelines, raise awareness about marine conservation, and inspire long-term behavioral change toward environmental care.
The June 7, 2025 cleanup is part of SM Cares’ broader sustainability vision through its #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign, which also includes weekly cleanups at SM By The Bay. This May 2025, SM employee-led cleanups have mobilized a total of 279 volunteers, collecting over 4,493 kilograms of waste — highlighting their firm commitment to keeping our coasts clean on a weekly basis. These sustained efforts contributed to creating a safer, more enjoyable coastal spaces for customers, while encouraging a stronger culture of environmental volunteerism. SM Cares’ Coastal Cleanup also supports and aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), most notably SDG 14: Life Below Water, by directly reducing marine pollution and protecting ocean ecosystems. It also contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action, by raising environmental awareness and promoting community-led climate resilience, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through its collaboration with LGUs, NGOs, schools, and communities. With two more major cleanups planned for the year, SM Cares remains determined in its mission to inspire Filipinos to take action — one shoreline at a time.
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Community At Work: SM Cares Joins Brigada Eskwela 2025
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| (Image Source: The Curious Mom/SM Supermalls) |
In support of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) annual Brigada Eskwela initiative, SM Supermalls mobilized thousands of volunteers across its malls nationwide last June 9-13, 2025 to help prepare public schools for the upcoming academic year. This year’s Brigada Eskwela carried the theme “Nagkakaisa Para Sa Handa At Ligtas Na Pagbabalik Eskwela”. As a long-time DepEd partner, SM Supermalls once again participated in Brigada Eskwela 2025 as part of its broader commitment to youth empowerment, environmental stewardship, and inclusive community building.
The initiative was rolled out across 75 SM Supermalls with more than a thousand employee-volunteers working hand-in-hand with DepEd, local government units (LGUs), school representatives, and community members. It empowered community volunteers to make a tangible impact by helping schools prepare safe, clean, and inspiring learning environments. “We are proud to be part of Brigada Eskwela again this year. Education is the cornerstone of nation-building, and through volunteerism and shared responsibility, we aim to help create safe and welcoming learning spaces for students all across the country,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. SM employee-volunteers engaged in a wide range of preparatory activities including classroom cleaning and disinfection, repainting of walls and learning spaces, repairs of desks and chairs, and the turnover of essential learning materials. Through shared efforts, this annual initiative not only enhanced school facilities but also strengthened community ties and encouraged a culture of unity, pride, and collective responsibility for education.
The program benefited 66 public schools across the country, helping ensure that thousands of Filipino learners return to a clean, safe, and functional learning environment when classes resume. By supporting Brigada Eskwela 2025, SM Supermalls reinforces its continued support and alignment with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, reflecting its commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable development in every community it serves. This initiative also forms part of SM’s broader advocacy under SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, which champions programs for Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, the Environment, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth and Bike-Friendly initiatives.
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DTI, PRA, And SCMAP Launch “Job Blueprint” With SM Supermalls
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| At the media launch of the Section G: Job Blueprint for Wholesale and Retail Trade held last June 16, 2025 at SM North EDSA, L-R: Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP) President Dennis Llovido, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Engelbert Chua, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, and Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) President Roberto Claudio Sr. (Image Source: Remate/SM Supermalls) |
The future of employment in the Philippines’ wholesale and retail trade sector got a major boost last June 16, 2025 as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), together with the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) and the Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP), officially launched Section G: Job Blueprint for the Wholesale and Retail Trade Sector at SM City North EDSA. The initiative included a two-day job fair, offering immediate hiring opportunities to Filipino job seekers.
The Section G Job Blueprint, developed through extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, highlights the strong collaboration between government, the private sector, and mall leadership to address workforce gaps in retail and supply chain. Serving as a foundation for future reforms, it aims to boost employment growth by leveraging the sector’s vital contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and its role as a key employer of over 10 million Filipinos, according to the DTI. The job fair, which offered hundreds of career opportunities from leading retailers and logistics providers, drew a diverse crowd of job seekers eager to engage with PRA and SCMAP member companies recruiting for roles in merchandising, warehousing, logistics, and frontline retail. “This is more than just a job fair — it’s a call to action. We are proud to partner with DTI, PRA, and SCMAP in hosting this meaningful initiative that connects people to opportunity and promotes inclusive employment,” said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin.
SM Supermalls, as host venue and promotional partner, reinforced its commitment to national workforce development and economic recovery. This event is part of SM’s ongoing support for programs that empower micro-, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), job seekers, and industry players. With Section G now officially launched, stakeholders look forward to implementing its key recommendations and building a stronger, more resilient retail trade sector for all.
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CDA Empowers Cooperatives Through SM Supermalls’ Weekend Market
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| (L-R) SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President and Lead for MSME and Job Fairs Royston A. Cabunag and Vice President for Mall Operations Engr. Junias M. Eusebio formalized partnership through a MOA signing with CDA Chairperson Usec. Alexander B. Raquepo and CDA Administrator Asec. Santiago S. Lim, that aims to empower Filipino cooperatives through the SM Weekend Market initiative. (Image Source: Malaya Business Insight/SM Supermalls) |
Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and SM Supermalls have officially sealed a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held last July 1, 2025, at the SM Supermalls Headquarters in Pasay City. The agreement marks the beginning of a joint effort to empower Filipino cooperatives by giving them access to high-foot-traffic mall spaces through the SM Weekend Market — a platform dedicated to showcasing local products, homegrown talent, and Filipino entrepreneurship. The MOA was signed by CDA Chairperson Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo and SM Supermalls Vice President for Mall Operations Engr. Junias M. Eusebio in the presence of key officials from both institutions.
During his remarks, Usec. Raquepo said, “This is a historic partnership between the private and public sectors. We take great pride in this collaboration with SM Supermalls, which represents a powerful step forward in uplifting our micro, small and medium cooperative entrepreneurs. This model partnership will not only provide access to markets, but help elevate the economic well-being of our communities.” Under the agreement, CDA will endorse eligible cooperatives across the country to participate in the SM Weekend Market. In turn, SM Supermalls will make space available in key mall locations for a minimal fee — intended only to help cover maintenance costs.
“The SM Weekend Market was born out of a simple but powerful idea — to give farmers and local producers, especially those in cooperatives, the chance to bring their goods closer to the people, in places they wouldn’t normally have access to. With CDA as our partner, we are excited to open more doors and more mall spaces to co-ops across the country. This partnership will allow more communities to thrive, more stories to be told, and more Filipino-made products to be celebrated,” said Engr. Eusebio. The event marks the start of a nationwide collaboration between CDA and SM Supermalls with more updates and market rollouts expected in the coming months.
