Monthly Archives

March 2025

Entertainment

Ame’s latest track, “Ipagpatawad Mo,” brings back the rockabilly of the 1960s with a contemporary twist

The track will be part of the band’s upcoming debut album, Kwentong Barbero

With their new track,“Ipagpatawad Mo” which is currently accessible on all digital streaming platforms through Evosound Philippines, Ame revitalizes 1960s rock ‘n’ roll with a modern twist.

“Ipagpatawad Mo,” a denim-clad anthem of passion and resistance, combines raw, visceral energy, electric rhythms, and guitar riffs mixed with blues. The song offers a high-octane listening experience that blends the band’s distinctive DIY attitude with a more refined musical approach, channeling the spirit of rockabilly while infusing it with a new, dynamic sound.

“We wanted a song that people can dance to,” Ame shares in an official press statement. “We’ve dabbled with the bluesy side of rockabilly, but we made sure to stay true to our creative vision. This track is special because it showcases our individual and collaborative strengths. Zarviel’s commanding vocal presence, the explosive guitar-drum interplay of Silas and Seuss, and Regit’s dynamic basslines  all come together to create a sound that balances madness and order.”

Produced by Max Cinco and Paulo Agudelo with Sam Marquez handling mixing and mastering duties, “Ipagpatawad Mo” doesn’t adhere to a specific era. Instead, it moves fluidly through time, weaving nostalgia with a modern edge.

Lyrically, “Ipagpatawad Mo” draws inspiration from a real-life story that bassist Regit encountered during his time as a barber.

“This is based on a story of a client of mine back when I was working in a barbershop during college,” Regit reveals. “He was a humble guy competing against a wealthy suitor for the heart of a woman he adored. Though her family favored the other man, he won her over through perseverance, humor and his talent for dancing. That became the heart of the song.”

“Ipagpatawad Mo” marks the first official single off Ame’s highly anticipated debut album, Kwentong Barbero—a collection of eight tracks, each inspired by stories Regit has heard over the years while cutting hair. The album promises a gritty yet heartfelt narrative that captures tales of love, struggle, and triumph through the lens of rock n’ roll.

On April 12, 2025, Ame will perform “Ipagpatawad Mo,” together with new songs and fan favorites, live on the second floor of Kowloon House on Matalino Street, Quezon City, to commemorate this new chapter.

“Ipagpatawad Mo” by Ame is currently available for streaming on all digital music platforms across the globe. Raise the volume, get on the dance floor, and allow Ame to take you on a unique rock ‘n’ roll experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 21, 2025 by
Automotive

Toyota Motor Philippines’ TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy encourages racers to push boundaries for improvement

Leading mobility company brings motorsports closer to Filipinos through racing school

Aspiring racers had the opportunity to experience the excitement of racetracks firsthand at the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy Philippines (TGRA), which was recently hosted at the Clark International Speedway by Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP).

Participants received instruction on the fundamentals of racing, appropriate racing etiquette, automobile handling strategies, and track braking points throughout the first half of the session.

In the second half of the program, students got to apply what they had learned during the orientation through guided track activities. The slalom activity tested the participants’ agility, while the ‘follow the leader’ activity allowed them to get a feel of the racetrack’s straights and corners by following the racing line.

The TGRA was met with enthusiasm by first timers, who composed a majority of the participants:

“I race go karts, so I wanted to try driving a car – to see kung anong pinagkaiba. It’s almost the same, but also different because the car is bigger. For me, I feel like mas masaya ito,” shared Karis Alexandra Santos.

“Since bata pa ako mahilig ako sa kotse and manood ng racing. I’m also fascinated by the mechanical aspects of cars. Kaya I took the opportunity to sign up nung nakita ko na may slot sa TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy,” shared Nemuel Obas.

“The TGRA makes it more accessible to get into this sport. It was beyond my expectations. Akala ko yung first few exercises lang gagawin namin – yung avoiding the cones and braking. Yun pala we also get to go around the track a few times and at a good speed,” shared Miguel Corrales.

“Pangarap ko makapag-drive sa speedway, sa track – yung ma-experience yung ganitong driving environment at ma-enhance yung skills ko, so inencourage ako ng mga anak ko mag enroll [sa TGRA]” shared Javi Rios.

“As a woman in motorsports, I’m excited to promote diversity and break down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. I think the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy is the perfect place to bring this passion of mine to life,” shared Ella Nicole Bornilla.

“The TGRA is our way of making motorsports more accessible to racing fans,” shared TMP Assistant Vice President for Marketing Services Andy Ty. “We’ll have more batches of the TGRA this year, so we invite those who missed this first batch to join us in the next ones.”

The TGRA was launched in 2014 as a training ground for hopefuls looking to kick start their racing career. Some graduates of the program have gone on to pursue professional racing careers, with some participating in the TGR Philippine Cup, TMP’s premier racing series.

Racing fans can continue to join in the fun at Race Weekend 1 of the TGR Philippine Cup, which will be happening this Saturday, March 22, 2025 at the Clark International Speedway. Admission is free.

The Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) has recognized the Toyota Gazoo Racing Academy Philippines, which is presented by Official Tire Partner GT Radial and Official Fuel & Lubricants Partner Petron. Toyota Financial Services Philippines, myTOYOTA Wallet, Denso, AVT, 3M, ROTA, Tuason Racing, OMP, and Kinto One are also supporting this event.

Go to https://toyota.com.ph/tgrphilippines for additional details about the TGRA and other TGRA events. For the latest information, follow TOYOTA GAZOO Racing on Facebook and Instagram, as well as the official accounts of Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, ToyotaMotorPH on Twitter, and the Toyota PH Viber community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 20, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Haier has been named the top major appliance brand in the world of 2024

Officially, Haier has been named the top major appliance brand in the world for 2024. Based on 2024 volume sales data across important appliance categories, Euromonitor International Limited has awarded this honor. The brand’s dominant position in the worldwide market has been cemented by its unwavering dedication to innovation, quality, and customer happiness.

Haier has continuously fulfilled the demands of contemporary homes with an emphasis on energy efficiency, technology-driven solutions, and user-friendly designs. Customers all across the world have responded favorably to its innovative appliances and leadership in smart home integration, which has helped the brand keep its top spot in the market.

The claim, “Haier is the number one brand globally in major appliances in 2024,” is backed by extensive research conducted by Euromonitor International Limited. This certification highlights Haier’s dominance in home laundry appliances, large cooking appliances, microwaves, and refrigeration appliances. The ranking is based on unit share and 2024 volume sales data across retail channels, builder merchants, and the construction sector. This recognition reinforces the trust that millions of consumers place in Haier’s products every day.

Adding to its credibility, this claim has been reviewed and approved by the Ad Standards Council (ASC), ensuring transparency and accuracy in its communication. The ASC REFERENCE CODE: H0232P031325H further validates this recognition, providing consumers with confidence in Haier’s industry leadership.

Haier’s rise to the top has been driven by its commitment to continuous innovation and customer-centric solutions. From smart refrigerators with AI-powered features to high-efficiency washing machines, the brand continues to introduce groundbreaking technology that enhances everyday living. Sustainability and energy efficiency also remain key priorities, as Haier focuses on creating appliances that contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

Haier continues to set industry standards, and this recognition as the top worldwide brand for major appliances is another significant milestone. Haier continues to lead the way in contemporary home solutions thanks to its continuous commitment to innovation and quality.

More Creation, More Possibilities.

 

March 20, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Collaboration fosters resilience, as demonstrated by the National Resilience Council’s colloquium

National Resilience Council (NRC) Co-Chairman for the Private Sector Hans Sy, in his message of
support, reiterates that resilience is a continuous journey and is a collective responsibility to build on
progress, promote innovation, and ensure lasting impact.

In order to further the interrelated goals of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Sustainable Development Goals, Paris Climate Agreement, New Urban Agenda, and other international commitments, the Philippines’ National Resilience Council (NRC), a science and technology-driven public-private partnership, brought together national and local governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector for the event “From Surviving to Thriving: Transformative Strategies through Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships and Innovations.”

As part of the NRC’s Adopt a City (AAC) Initiative, the 2025 Resilient Local Government Unit Program (RGLUP) Colloquium featured updates and developments from participating cities and municipalities. Through preparedness funding, prevention, pre-disaster recovery planning, and long-term resilience programs, this strategy allows firms to participate in risk reduction rather than just catastrophe relief. AAC encourages teamwork to create safer, more resilient communities by giving local governments more authority.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr., NRC Vice Chair for the
academe Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin SJ, NRC Co-Chair Hans Sy, and NRC Vice Chair for civil service
organizations Austere Panadero listen as participants of the Adopt-a-City Initiative present their progress
towards disaster resilience.

The colloquium also welcomed NRC’s private and public sector partners, with notable participation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of National Defense, and the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network. The event opened with inspiring messages from NRC Co-Chairman for the private sector and SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, NRC Vice Chairman for civil service organizations and Zuellig Family Foundation President Austere Panadero, and NRC Vice Chairman for the scientific organizations and academe and Director of the Manila Observatory Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ.

At the National Resilience Council (NRC) Colloquium, local government units in the Adopt-a-City Initiative deliver a public narrative and take part in a panel discussion with leading resilience experts.

Public officials take the opportunity to proudly expound on the programs developed together with the
support of the National Resilience Council (NRC) and other partners.

Cities in the AAC’s Prepare phase—Baguio, Iligan, Mandaue, and Tiwi, Albay—presented their innovative disaster resilience strategies. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized, “Baguio’s resilience journey highlights the power of collaboration and national support.” Meanwhile, cities in the Adapt and Transform phase, the initiative’s next stages —Naga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Bataan, Manila, and Ormoc—highlighted their advanced strides. Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez shared, “I am very proud to say that because of Project Transform, together with our esteemed partners, Ormoc City is always on track in terms of environmental stewardship and resilience.”

The National Resilience Council (NRC) Board launches the Resilience Competency Assessment
(CompAss) at the colloquium together with representatives of the Department of Environment
and Natural Resources, Department of National Defense, the United Nations ARISE Private
Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network, and the City Mayor of
Baguio, Hon. Benjamin Magalong, and Mayor of the Municipality of Tiwi, Albay, Hon. Jaime
Villanueva.

More than 150 members, partners, supporters and participants of the National Resilience Council
(NRC)’s programs came together to celebrate the achievements of local government units in the
realm of disaster risk resilience.

The introduction of the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss), a tool intended to improve local government capacities in disaster resilience, was one of the event’s highlights. The colloquium emphasized the value of multi-stakeholder collaboration in bringing about transformative change, drawing on the NRC’s mandate. The NRC and its partners are creating a resilient Philippines by fostering innovation and linking sectors.

 

 

 

March 20, 2025 by
Travel

Explore Japan’s Late-Blooming Cherry Blossoms: An Extended Spring Season

Although the early spring cherry blossom show in Japan is well-known, some of the most spectacular displays occur later in the season. These locations provide breathtaking late-blooming sakura, where the splendor of spring lasts a little longer, for those who miss peak bloom or would rather have a more sedate experience.

The star-shaped fort at Goryokaku Park in Hakodate, Hokkaido, is framed in delicate pink by cherry blossoms in late April and early May. The encircling most reflects the petals of the more than 1,600 trees that line the park’s paths. The entire scope of the flowers is seen from Goryokaku Tower, transforming the historic place into a sea of color. Lanterns illuminate the branches with a warm glow as night sets, giving an already remarkable scene a surreal feel.

In Aomori, Hirosaki Park transforms into a landscape of floating petals. In mid to late April, around 2,600 cherry trees bloom against the backdrop of Hirosaki Castle, and as the season progresses, fallen petals gather on the moat’s surface, creating the famous “sakura carpet.” Walking beneath the blossoms or rowing across pink-streaked waters makes for a hanami (flower viewing) experience unlike any other. Evening illuminations add to the charm, giving the park a quiet, almost ethereal glow.

In Miyagi’s Funaoka Castle Park, cherry trees cascade down the hillside, forming a tunnel of blossoms along the Shiroishi River. A short ropeway ride leads to a hilltop view where the pink canopy stretches out below, framing the distant mountains. From early to late April, the scene shifts with the light—soft pastels in the morning, golden hues at sunset, and glowing petals under evening lanterns.

In the historic streets of Kakunodate in Akita, weeping cherry trees drape over samurai-era homes, their branches swaying like flowing silk. Once a gift from Kyoto aristocrats, these trees now stand as a symbol of Kakunodate’s rich history. From middle to late April, visitors can walk beneath the blossoms, framed by the dark wooden houses that have stood for centuries. As dusk settles, the trees take on a softer glow, making the district feel even more timeless.

These places demonstrate that spring doesn’t end as soon as people think, even though Japan’s cherry blossoms are frequently thought of as a passing phenomenon. Hanami takes on a different pace in locations where the season persists, allowing visitors to slow down, appreciate the small nuances, and experience a slightly longer-lived aspect of Japan.

See the Cherry Blossom Forecast for more specific information on each region’s first bloom.

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 19, 2025 by
Lifestyle

Happy Walk 2025: A Step Toward Inclusion That Brings Communities Together Across the Nation

Two Happy Walkers take small, but meaningful steps with support and fanfare from the SM community.

A national effort to promote awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for people with Down syndrome, Happy Walk 2025 will bring together thousands of families, advocates, and supporters on March 30, 2025.

This year’s event, which is being hosted by SM Cares in collaboration with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), will be held at the SMX Convention Center in Manila. Simultaneous celebrations will be held at SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, and SM CDO Downtown Premier, ensuring that the event is a truly national endeavor to showcase the abilities and goals of people with Down syndrome.

More Than Just a Walk: A Movement for Inclusion

For more than two decades, Happy Walk has been more than an event—it is a powerful movement that highlights the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with Down Syndrome. It is a day of joy, unity, and acceptance, where communities come together to celebrate not just differences, but also shared dreams and aspirations.

“Happy Walk is not just about taking steps; it’s about making a difference. Every year, this event brings people together to reaffirm that individuals with Down Syndrome deserve the same opportunities, recognition, and support as everyone else. It is a celebration of abilities, not limitations,” said Nill Patrick Arroyo, DSAPI Board Member & Head, Happy Walk 2025.

With the involvement of thousands of volunteers, this event is now more than just a walk—it’s a movement for change.

Participants come together to show love and support for individuals with Down Syndrome.

A Nationwide Call for Participation

With the theme “321 & Beyond”, Happy Walk 2025 is expected to draw thousands of participants, from individuals with Down Syndrome and their families to volunteers, educators, corporate partners, and inclusivity advocates. The event will feature various activities, including performances, inspirational stories, and community-building initiatives that reinforce the importance of inclusivity in society.

“SM Cares has been a proud partner of Happy Walk for years because we believe in the importance of creating a society where everyone feels valued and included. This event is a reminder that inclusivity is not just an initiative—it is a responsibility we all share,” said Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs.

SM Prime Chairman Hans Sy, together with SM Cares and DSAPI members, is celebrating the success of last year’s Happy Walk event.

The Happy Walk community continues to grow in number and contribute to a broader movement of inclusivity and empowerment.

Join the Movement: How to Be Part of Happy Walk 2025

Everyone is welcome to participate in this motivational event, whether it be by volunteering, walking, or just lending a hand. Please go to https://portal.dsapi.ph/dsapi/Register/RegParticipant, the official Happy Walk 2025 registration page, to register. Visit the social media channels of SM Cares for additional information on how to participate.

 

 

 

March 19, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

SM Job Fairs: Expanding employment prospects around the country

SM Retail’s Job Fair at SM North EDSA bridges thousands of job seekers with leading employers.

Job searching is now quicker, simpler, and more fulfilling thanks to SM Supermalls! The SM Retail Job Fair at SM North EDSA successfully connected over a thousand job seekers with leading employers, setting the groundwork for 2025. A statewide series of job fairs in March will maintain the momentum and provide Filipinos with even more chances to advance their professions.

The March schedule includes:

  • March 21 (Friday) – SM City Trece Martires and SM City Naga
  • March 25 (Tuesday) – SM City Bacoor
  • March 27 (Thursday) – SM City Daet
  • March 28 (Friday) – SM City Sta. Mesa and SM City Trece Martires
  • March 29 (Saturday) – SM Seaside City Cebu

Success stories: Real people, real impact

SM Job Fairs continue to change lives by providing a fresh start, stable incomes, and career growth. Here’s what some of our hired-on-the-spot applicants had to say:

John Paul Arido begins his career journey as a Stock Clerk at SM Hypermarket.

“This is the best—I can finally stand on my own and support my family! Thank you, SM Job Fair, for this life-changing opportunity. I hope more job seekers take advantage of this chance to build a better future.” – John Paul Arido, a newly hired Stock Clerk at SM Hypermarket

SM Hypermarket welcomes Maria Patricia De Leon, a new Customer Assistance team member hired instantly.

“Getting hired on the spot was both exciting and overwhelming since this is my first job fair. Thank you, SM, for creating opportunities like this—your job fairs truly make a difference for job seekers like me!” – Maria Patricia De Leon, hired on the spot for Customer Assistance at SM Hypermarket

Joselito Oniza joins the Watsons team as a proud pharmacist assistant.

“I’m grateful to be hired on the spot after two months of job hunting. This opportunity means so much to me and my family. The SM Job Fair was well-organized, and the staff were very approachable, making the entire process smooth and comfortable.” – Joselito Oniza, hired pharmacist assistant at Watsons

Teresa Enriquez, Toy Kingdom’s newest cashier, is excited to start her journey in customer service.

“I’ve been following SM Supermalls’ job fair schedule, hoping for a chance to work for an SM-affiliated company. Being hired on the spot made the wait completely worth it! What sets SM Job Fairs apart is the quality of employers—established, reputable companies that offer real career opportunities. I’m truly grateful for this experience!” – Teresa Enriquez, Cashier at Toy Kingdom

Hassle-free job hunting with on-site government services

Having everything you need in one location makes finding a job easy! In order to ensure a seamless hiring process, SM Job Fairs include government agency booths to help applicants with necessary prerequisites like the Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Pag-IBIG Fund.

SM Retail and SM North EDSA unite to empower job seekers at a bustling job fair.

Driving growth, building the nation

SM Job Fairs are more than just hiring events; they also support community development and economic rehabilitation. The dedication of SM Supermalls to employment is helping more Filipinos secure better futures. Don’t pass up this opportunity to begin your next major professional move!

 

 

 

 

 

March 19, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Women on Fire 2025: Strengthening Women and Creating Resilient Societies

The iconic SM Mall of Asia Globe lights up in purple to celebrate gender equality, together with SM Cares, United Nations Philippines, and the Philippine Commission for Women.

Women on Fire, a celebration of the extraordinary leadership, bravery, strength, and tenacity of women in fire prevention, disaster response, and community safety, was introduced by SM Cares in honor of National Women’s Month and Fire Prevention Month. Across all programs, Women on Fire reached approximately 25,000 participants and provided a platform for empowerment, education, and awareness through partnerships with important public and private entities.

The Purple Illumination Ceremony, held on February 28 by SM Cares in collaboration with the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and the United Nations Philippines, illuminated the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Globe and mall façades across the country to mark the beginning of Women’s Month. In the Philippines, purple, a color often associated with justice, dignity, and women’s rights, signified the beginning of National Women’s Month, reaffirming SM’s dedication to gender equality and female empowerment.

SM Megamall’s Time Sculpture turns purple in support of women empowerment.

Shoppers at SM North Edsa walk through the display at the LED Tunnel, a striking tribute to gender equality and women’s resilience.

Strengthening Preparedness and Safety

A key highlight of the campaign was Women on Fire, which recognized female firefighters, emergency responders, and community leaders for their role in safety, fire prevention and disaster preparedness. On March 4, 2025, SM Cares and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) conducted the 4th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill across SM malls nationwide, with SM Mall of Asia as the main venue. Hundreds of registered participants took part in the Fire Square Roadshow, engaging in fire safety demonstrations and interactive training sessions to strengthen preparedness.

“Women are at the forefront of resilience. Through ‘Women on Fire,’ we celebrate and honor their contributions and reaffirm our commitment to gender-inclusive safety efforts,” said Atty. Pearly Joan Turley, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President of the Corporate Compliance Group and SM Cares Program Director for Women.

A female mall-goer tries the fire fighter’s protective uniform at the Fire Square Roadshow of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Students from the Philippine College of Criminology participate in the Fire Square Roadshow of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Women in Resilience: Empowering Women as Leaders in Disaster Preparedness and Community Building

On March 5, 2025, SM Cares and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) led the 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration Kickoff at SM Mall of Asia. The event, centered on the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas”, aimed to empower women across various sectors, particularly those from marginalized communities. Its activities included gender equality discussions on women’s rights and leadership, a trade fair showcasing products from women-led MSMEs and free services such as medical check-ups, legal consultations and livelihood support.

Meanwhile, the Women LEAD Forum, co-hosted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and SM Cares, emphasized the crucial role of women at the barangay and grassroots levels in disaster resilience. The discussion underscored how women-led initiatives strengthen community preparedness and serve as models for national climate and disaster resilience programs.

On Day 2 with PCW, SM Prime Vice President Jessica Bianca Sy emphasizes the significance of empowering women in our communities.

The celebration also highlights the launch of the 50th Anniversary coffee table book, entitled as “From HerStory and Beyond: Five Decades of the Philippine Commission on Women”.

On Day 3 with DILG, the panel discussion moderated by United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Specialist for the Urban Connect Project Crystal Eunice Dela Cruz, highlights the significance of women’s leadership.

Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano (center) receives the DILG Certificate of Appreciation for Advancing Women’s Leadership for Community Resilience.

SM Cares Champions Safe and Inclusive Spaces with Safe Spaces Act Orientation

Over 12,000 people attended SM Cares’ 3rd Nationwide Safe Spaces Act Orientation, which was hosted in 86 SM malls across the country on March 4 and 6, to reaffirm the company’s dedication to establishing safe spaces. Students, staff, renters, and security guards were all taught the value of preserving harassment-free environments in stores and businesses through this program.

SM Supermalls holds the 3rd Nationwide Orientation on the Safe Spaces Act with in the photo: Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Officer in Charge Executive Director Nharleen Santos-Millar, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President (VP) of the Corporate Compliance Group (CCG) Atty. Pearly Joan Turley, PCW former Executive Director Atty. Khay Ann Magundayao-Borlado, SM Supermalls VP for CCG Liza Silerio, together with SM Supermalls security and janitorial personnel.

Visit the official website or follow @SMCaresOfficial on social media for additional updates on SM Cares’ efforts

 

March 19, 2025 by
Lifestyle

The Ultimate Bucket List for Youniverse—Remembering #WomensMonthAtSM

March is all about YOU! At SM, we’re honoring strong women with joyous experiences, wellness, and beauty this Women’s Month. Experience enjoyable outings with friends, self-care, and confidence boosting. With glow-ups, indulgences, and life-changing experiences, enter your girlboss age. Only at SM Supermalls, begin crossing things off the ultimate Women’s Month bucket list!

Own Beauty That Empowers: A Self-Love Glow-Up

Self-care is more than a treat—it’s a celebration of you! This Women’s Month, refresh, recharge, and embrace your glow-up with a makeup refresh, wardrobe upgrade, and an indulgent beauty experience at SM Supermalls!

Start with a beauty upgrade at Look at Me in its first branch in the Philippines, SM Aura, now also available at SM Mall of Asia (MOA), where you’ll find luxury brands perfect for high-end skincare and makeup essentials.

For timeless beauty must-haves, MAC at SM MOA, SM North EDSA, SM City Fairview, and SM Megamall is the go-to for professional-grade cosmetics to help you create your signature look. Meanwhile, for skin-loving makeup, Happy Skin at SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM City Fairview, SM North EDSA, and SM MOA offers skincare-infused beauty for effortless radiance.

A power statement completes any beauty routine, and Jo Malone at SM Megamall, SM Aura, SM MOA, and SM North EDSA, lets you create a signature scent that is uniquely yours.

Refresh your wardrobe with Patton at SM Aura—first in SM, a woman-owned brand for chic, modern fashion. Meanwhile, for timeless staples check out K&Company—first in SM at SM Podium, also available at SM Aura and S Maison.

To complete your glow-up, Atelier 818 at SM Aura, first in the Philippines, with its fine jewelry that blends sophistication with artisanal craftsmanship.

Wellness First: Because You Deserve to Feel Your Best

Now’s the perfect time to hit pause, refresh, and focus on yourself. Whether it’s a hair makeover or a well-deserved pampering session, check out these spots to get that glow from within!

Start with a professional hair treatment at Amave by Going Straight Salon at SM North EDSA and SM Megamall, where expert hair care solutions keep your locks healthy and beautiful. If you’re ready to take your skincare and beauty routine to the next level, Aivee Clinic at SM Megamall—their first in SM, offers advanced cosmetic dermatology and treatments, perfect for enhancing your natural glow.

For a well-deserved pampering session, Ukiyo Beauty Bar at S Maison provides a relaxing escape with premium nail and self-care treatments. If smooth, flawless skin is on your list, Maxwax at SM Aura, first in SM—offers expert waxing services to help you feel fresh and confident.

To enhance your everyday look with authentic Japanese lash extensions check out Ayumi at SM City Fairview, SM Aura, SM MOA, and SM North EDSA. And if prioritizing fitness is part of your self-care routine try Fitness First Platinum at SM Aura—first in SM, for an elevated workout experience.

Girls’ Day Out: Making More Moments Together

Now’s the perfect time to gather your girls and make unforgettable memories. Whether it’s brunch, coffee, or a cozy catch-up, check out these must-visit spots for the ultimate girls’ day out!

Start with an indulgent brunch at Panco Café at SM Podium, first in SM, where Melbourne meets Manila in an elevated take on Filipino food. For a taste of Parisian elegance with beautifully crafted pastries and an effortlessly chic ambiance check out Apéritif, first in the Philippines at SM Aura, also available at SM North EDSA, SM MOA, SM Megamall, and SM City Fairview.

For an afternoon pick-me-up, visit Paul Le Café, the first in SM at SM North EDSA—now also in SM Megamall and SM Aura, where French tradition and a passion for bread and pastries come together. If you’re looking for a laid-back neighborhood spot, Brewing Point at SM City Fairview serves up comfort food with a cozy atmosphere.

Coffee lovers can take their caffeine game to the next level with four unique brewing methods at UCC Mentore at S Maison, first in SM. For a specialty coffee experience, Yardstick at SM Aura, SM MOA, and SM Podium, ranked 18th in the World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops—proudly roasts world-class coffee, making it a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts.

This Women’s Month, It’s Your Time to Shine—Only at SM!

This Women’s Month is no exception to our mission at SM Supermalls to provide you with first-rate experiences.

SM offers everything you need to make it a memorable occasion, whether you’re celebrating with your best friends, giving yourself a well-earned glow-up, or taking a much-needed getaway for yourself.

You deserve this month, so make it all about you! Everything may be found at SM, the #HomeOfFirsts.

For the most recent information and activities, remember to check www.smsupermalls.com or like and follow @smsupermalls on social media!

 

 

 

March 19, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

How SM Moves From Bin it Right to #SMWasteFreeFuture reduces the impact on landfills

The SM Waste-Free Future initiative endeavors to reduce waste generation and increase the rate of diversion.

It is not “out of sight, out of mind”; landfills are not only unsightly places in isolated locations; they also provide a serious health danger to the local population and release a lot of greenhouse gases due to the decomposition of food waste.

The SM Supermalls’ Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC) containers are not merely decorative; they mark the beginning of the path to a landfill that is net-zero and beyond.

SM has recycled 130,250kg of its internal non-essential documents through its bulk paper recycling program.

SM’s environmental programs, such as the monthly Trash to Cash recycling market, continue to support communities towards sustainable living.

For recyclable waste, SM has initiatives like the “Trash to Cash” recycling market, which successfully gathers over 1 million kilograms annually of plastic, paper, and other materials for reuse or recycling. The program aims to reduce solid waste pollution and promote a circular economy within communities. SM understands the importance of segregating at the source, and the company does this through partnerships with various companies, such as Trust International Paper Corporation for internal bulk paper recycling. The program has avoided landfill waste equivalent to the annual waste of more than 3,000 households while ensuring recyclables are properly processed.

For disposable, non-recyclable waste, SM Prime formed a joint venture with the Japanese environmental solutions company GUUN to establish SM GUUN Environmental Company, Inc. (SGECI). This partnership enhances its waste-to-fuel factory to convert non-recyclable waste, like single-use plastics, non-recyclable paper, and used rags, into cement fuel called “fluff fuel” to reduce coal usage. The “fluff fuel” produced is then used by eco-conscious cement companies like APO Cement, Holcim, and Taiheiyo Cement in a practice they call “co-processing,” where the ash from the fuel is also used as a cement ingredient, making it an integral part of the waste reduction ecosystem.

In 2024, SM GUUN Environmental Company converted over 6,000 metric tons of non-recyclable waste into “fluff fuel,” avoiding the annual landfill burden for 12,000 households. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recently visited the facility and recognized its significance to various stakeholders, particularly in the reduction of their carbon footprints and the efficient management of solid waste.

In 2024, SM GUUN enabled the conversion of 6,000 metric tons of non-recyclable waste into fuel for cement companies.

SM GUUN’s Cebu plant is capable of processing 50-70 tons of waste daily.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) representatives, led by Assistant Secretary and concurrent Bureau Director Jaqueline Caancan were joined by the National Solid Waste Management Commission Head Engr. Vizminda Osorio and DENR Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Central Visayas Regional Director Ma. Victoria Abrera in a recent visit to SM GUUN Environmental Company in Consolacion, Cebu.

For compostable waste, SM GUUN is experimenting with a Singaporean system for its malls and hawker centers that transforms compostable food residues into landscape soil, achieving over 70% volume reduction within 48 hours. This helps create new soil for gardens, parks, and golf courses, thereby reducing the burden on landfills and contributing to soil health and urban greenery.

Other customer-facing solid waste management services offered by SM include the Plastic Waste Collection program, E-Waste Collection, clean water body awareness campaigns, and frequent cleanups of the coast and estero. Through RA 9004, RA 11898, and other similar laws, these activities are also carried out to assist the government in promoting appropriate solid waste management.

The path to SM’s #SMWasteFreeFuture becomes more feasible after solutions have been found. To establish an ecology of recovery and consumption where the term “waste” can become obsolete, we need everyone’s assistance, from properly “bin it right” to further developing waste solutions. Let’s contribute to the “waste-free future” movement.

Visit https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares/events/environmental-programs-on-solid-waste-management to find out more about SM’s solid waste management activities.

 

 

March 19, 2025 by