Browsing Category

News

Lifestyle, News

Alcantara Group Celebrates 70 Years of Influence, Leadership, and Legacy

The Alcantara Group’s second and third generations standing side by side, symbolizing the continuity of leadership and the shared commitment to carrying the company’s mission forward.

The Alcantara Group commemorated its 70th anniversary with a historic event that looked to the future while paying tribute to its rich history. Held on December 4, 2025, at the Dusit Thani Residence in Davao, the event honored the founder’s enduring vision and the Group’s legacy of service, innovation, and nation-building by bringing together generations of leaders, employees, partners, and friends under the theme “Seventy Years Strong: Forward Together.”

Conrado Alcantara and Sons, Inc. (CASI), a Davao-based business in the mid-1950s, evolved into one of the nation’s most diverse Filipino-owned conglomerates. The celebration, which took place in Davao, where the company’s history started, included a well planned display and program. The event honored Conrado Alcantara, the organization’s founder, as well as the leadership of the second-generation principals who grew the company’s presence in important industries, such as real estate development through Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), energy through the Alsons Power Unit, and aquaculture and agriculture through the Alsons Agribusiness Unit.

Guests were welcomed by a specially curated anniversary exhibit that paid tribute to the founders and the leaders of the Alcantara group, showcasing the Group’s seven-decade journey—from its beginnings in Davao to its growth into one of the country’s most diversified Filipino-owned conglomerates

The anniversary program also paid tribute to the collective efforts of employees, partners, and communities that have shaped the enterprise’s growth. Stories of collaboration and service underscore how shared values across the Alcantara Group’s business units have enabled their continued relevance and resilience amid changing landscapes and milestones across decades.

“We owe this milestone to the men and women across generations who helped shape the Alcantara Group into what it is today. What has kept us strong is not just strategy alone, but the spirit of unity and service that has guided us since the beginning—growth that uplifts both people and communities,” said Nicasio I. Alcantara, Chairman of Alcantara Group.

Alcantara Group Chairman Nicasio I. Alcantara led the commemorative toast, while Vice Chair Editha I. Alcantara delivered a heartfelt message that honored the generations of employees, partners, and communities who helped shape the Alcantara Group’s 70-year legacy.

Continuing the Group’s 70-year Legacy

With the third generation of Alcantaras poised to take the lead, the Alcantara Group’s subsidiaries, including Alsons Dev, are carrying forward its mission with renewed purpose.

As the Group’s real estate arm, Alsons Dev plays a central role in shaping communities that reflect the founder’s foresight for Mindanao, translating the company’s values of stewardship into meaningful developments on the ground.

“As we look to the future, we do so with renewed purpose—to sustain what has been built and to keep growing it with the same vision, integrity, and care that defined the generations before us,” said Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, President and CEO of Alsons Dev. “We will continue to build responsibly, create long-term value, and drive progress for generations to come.”

Third-generation leader Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, Alsons Dev President & CEO, shared reflections on the Group’s legacy and renewed direction as the company enters its next chapter.

The corporation is dedicated to growing its diverse companies and promoting industries that support long-term development, building on seven decades of achievement. The Alcantara Group looks to the future with determination, focusing on creating possibilities, supporting sustainable growth, and having a lasting impact on future generations. It is guided by the ideas that formed its early years and inspired by the generations that have carried its purpose forward.

Please visit http://www.alcantaragroup.com for further details.

Lifestyle, News

Amid Questions Over Governance, Country Club Members Demand Greater Transparency

While I was quietly sipping my morning coffee in a cozy place somewhere in Ortigas, someone leaned over and mentioned the latest news from the country club in Metro Manila—and I was stunned as I listened to what she had to say.

A growing number of members at a prominent country club are now backing a formal petition demanding greater openness and accountability from the club’s leadership.

Documents currently circulating among members show that a concerned group is urging the board to hold an extraordinary general meeting before the end of the year. The proposed agenda outlines several governance and operational matters that, according to the petition, need urgent explanation.

The petition outlines more than 20 specific questions directed at senior leadership. Many of these focus on governance practices, including whether certain decisions—particularly those involving senior management—were properly authorized by the board. One issue drawing heightened attention is the reported suspension of the club’s operations head, which has sparked calls for clarity on due process and executive authority.

The members leading the effort maintain that their actions are procedural, aimed at protecting the club’s integrity and strengthening proper governance. They reaffirm a core belief that the club “belongs to its members,” and that transparency is “non-negotiable.”

While the board has yet to issue an official response, a meeting has been set for December 20 to address the situation. Members hope the discussion will bring clarity and help restore trust within the community.

 

 

Lifestyle, News

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

From left to right: Rona May Cadelino (Associate, CSR) Sharlene Mae Tabañar (Manager, Administration) Jackson Digno (Senior Manager, Human Resources) Marivic Acuyong (Manager, CSR) Francis Miel Dilig (Associate, CSR)

Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions company in the Asia-Pacific region, was recently recognized at the prestigious AmCham Philippines 2025 Corporate Social Impact (CSI) Awards. The company, through its entity, Helios Solar Energy Corp. (HSEC), was honored with the Bronze Award in the highly competitive Community Impact & Civic Engagement category for its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Program.

Presented by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines in partnership with the U.S. Embassy, this award underscores Vena Energy’s strong belief that its role extends beyond clean energy production to encompass holistic sustainable development within its host communities.

The Impact of Clean Water and Sanitation in Cadiz City

Implemented in partnership with the Cadiz City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the City Health Office (CHO), the WASH Program directly addresses the pressing public health issue of insufficient hygiene and sanitation infrastructure in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental.

The WASH Program highlights Vena Energy’s strategic focus on investing in essential community welfare and infrastructure and is aligned with the company’s CSR focus on Community Well-being and Infrastructure Development, directly supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

By addressing fundamental needs such as clean water and hygiene, Vena Energy shows its firm commitment to ensuring a healthy and resilient environment where its projects operate.

Cadiz City Municipal Mayor Salvador Escalante, Jr., applauded the efforts, stating, “HSEC’s generosity and commitment to creating a better future for children through the City’s Early Childhood Care Development Program are deeply appreciated, and our CSR partnership is making a significant difference and positive impact in our municipality”.

A Legacy of Local Partnership in the Philippines

This recognition reflects Vena Energy’s long-standing dedication to accelerating the energy transition and advancing green solutions in the Philippines. Its success is anchored by strong, collaborative relationships with Local Government Units (LGUs) and host communities across the country.

“Vena Energy is deeply honored to receive this award, which validates our team’s hard work and commitment to our Filipino host communities,” said Samrinder Nehria, Head of The Philippines. “As we continue to develop clean energy infrastructure to meet the national goal of 35% renewable energy share by 2030, we remain focused on our shared responsibility: building a workplace where our people feel empowered and investing in meaningful programs that advance the well-being of our community partners.”

Vena Energy’s staunch commitment to integrating internationally recognized Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards into its strategy, ensures that it will continue to grow alongside the Philippines toward a cleaner and more prosperous future.

For more information, please visit www.venagroup.com.

For more information, please visit www.venaenergy.com, or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram.

 

Lifestyle, News

Leading insurer partners with LRT-1

 

To provide “The Gift of Protection” to thousands of daily commuters throughout December Malayan Insurance Co., Inc. (MICO), one of the country’s leading non-life insurance providers, has partnered with LRT-1 to power a month-long holiday campaign.

This initiative offers complimentary Personal Accident (PA) insurance coverage to LRT-1 commuters throughout the entire month of December. The initiative, dubbed “The Gift of Protection,” aims to provide peace of mind to thousands of Filipino commuters during the busiest travel season of the year, when millions rush through Metro Manila’s railways for holiday shopping, year-end gatherings, and trips to provincial bus terminals for the Christmas break.

“December is the most hectic time for Filipino commuters—carrying gifts, rushing to catch buses home, navigating crowded stations,” said Eden Tesoro, Chief Operating Officer of Malayan Insurance. “We wanted to cut through the holiday chaos with a meaningful gesture that reminds Filipinos that protection isn’t an expense—it’s a gift, and one we’re honored to give this Christmas season.”

The campaign features a full station takeover at LRT-1’s Gil Puyat Station, a key transit point for commuters heading to Makati’s business districts and nearby provincial bus terminals. A fully-wrapped LRT-1 train will also traverse the line throughout December, spreading the message of safety and protection across the metro.

Commuters can avail of the complimentary PA insurance coverage by simply scanning QR codes displayed throughout Gil Puyat Station and on the branded train. The seamless digital process requires only basic information—name and mobile number—and issues a digital policy certificate instantly.

“This partnership with LRT-1 allows us to meet Filipinos where they are, literally,” Tesoro added. “We want to bring protection to the forefront during a time they need it most; that’s what future-proofing protection means to us.”

The campaign reflects Malayan Insurance’s broader commitment to making insurance more accessible and relevant to everyday Filipinos, shifting the perception of insurance from a burdensome expense to a caring investment in one’s safety and future.

The “Gift of Protection” campaign runs through the whol

Lifestyle, News

REX Champions a More Human Future at AECON 2025: Special Edition on Education 5.0

In a world where technology continuously influences how people live, learn, and connect, one question remains urgent: how do we keep education human?

Rex Education placed that question at the heart of this year’s Annual Educators’ Congress (AECON 2025): Special Edition on Education 5.0, held on October 23 and 24, at the Gallio Events Hall in Parañaque City. With the theme “Agentive, Ethical, Connected, Open, and Nurturing,” the congress gathered school leaders, teachers, and education advocates from across the country for 2 days of reflective conversations and practical exchanges focused on putting people at the center of learning.

Reclaiming the Heart of Education

While Education 4.0 was driven by innovation and digital transformation, Education 5.0 calls for balance. It seeks to place humanity back at the core of learning, embracing technology with care, empathy, and purpose.

In his opening remarks, Rex Education CEO Don Timothy Buhain shared a heartfelt reflection on AECON’s significance and the deeper meaning of Education 5.0, emphasizing that “education has always been, and will always be, about people.” He explained that Education 5.0 is to make sure that as we move forward, we never forget the human being at the center of it all. “Technology will always be a means and a tool, but people will always be the purpose,” he emphasized.

What Education 5.0 means for REX

This year’s theme—Agentive, Ethical, Connected, Open, and Nurturing—defines REX’s vision for Education 5.0. Each word carries a practical and moral commitment.

Being Agentive is about being self-directed and purposeful; also being involved and capable of taking action. Meanwhile, being Ethical concerns choices guided by our values, having integrity, compassion, and moral discernment. Being Connected points to the relationships that make learning possible—with schools, families, and communities. Moreover, being Open stands for inclusivity, accessibility, and transparency. Nurturing brings all these elements together. It calls for learning environments that support the whole person—intellect, emotion, and spirit—so learners can grow with confidence and succeed in life.

Highlights of AECON 2025

The first day of AECON featured an interactive Pre-Conference Session led by Dr. Edizon A. Fermin, Vice President for Academic Affairs at the National Teachers College. Through hands-on activities and reflective exercises, participants explored three key tenets: Institutionalizing Less is More, Opening Pathways and Doorways, and Investing in Immersion, gaining practical tools to help build a stronger, more future-ready Senior High School program.

The main conference on October 24 opened with the Learner Panel Spotlight, “Kami Naman Talaga Sana,” and the keynote address, “Reclaiming Humanity in Education 5.0,” by Rev. Fr. Jessel “JBoy” M. Gonzales, SJ of Ateneo de Davao University.

Two pannel discussions followed. The first panel, “Beyond Lifelong Learning: Content, Methodology, & Assessment that Matter,” featured esteemed education leaders Dr. Marlene Ferido, Dr. Violeta Valladolid, and Dr. Brando “ER” C. Palomar, moderated by Ms. Rita Atienza of the Ateneo de Manila University.

The second panel, “Of Numbers and Narratives: Quality Schools that Promote IDEAS (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access, Sustainability) In Focus,” featured Dr. Malcolm S. Garma and Ms. Maria Louella M. Tampinco. The session was moderated by Mr. Narcy Ador Dionisio, Executive Director of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines.

The day’s sessions concluded with a synthesis led by Dr. Edizon A. Fermin, bringing together key insights and reflections from the discussions.

A Shared Hope for the Future

Across two inspiring days, AECON 2025 became a space where educators rediscovered the heart of their work. Through

meaningful discussions and heartfelt exchanges, participants were reminded that the future of learning begins not with technology, but with people—those who teach, those who learn, and those who dare to make education better for all.

As the conference came to a close, Rex Education reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing every Filipino learner and supporting teachers and school leaders through relevant, future-ready, and deeply human learning solutions.

Because in the end, Education 5.0 is not only about adapting to the future—it’s about creating one led by heart, humanity, and purpose.

 

Lifestyle, News

At the 2025 MSME Summit, SM and Jobstreet will represent Filipino MSMEs


Entrepreneurs and partners gather at the MSME Summit 2025 hosted by Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines in partnership with SM Supermalls at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia.

Entrepreneurs, business executives, and important stakeholders were invited to the MSME Summit 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall by Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines in collaboration with SM Supermalls. The occasion demonstrated Jobstreet and SM Supermalls’ joint dedication to empowering Filipino MSMEs and promoting sustainable growth for the country’s core industries. Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, underscored the summit’s goal: promoting MSMEs as a driving force of the Philippine economy.

“SM aims to be a partner in every MSME’s success story.” Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls, reinforces SM’s commitment to supporting Filipino entrepreneurs as he delivers the inspirational message and accepts a Plaque of Appreciation from Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK, during the MSME Summit held at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, on November 25, 2025.

Pasay City, November 12, 2025 — Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, in partnership with SM Supermalls, welcomed entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to the MSME Summit 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. The event showcased the shared commitment of Jobstreet and SM Supermalls to empower Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and foster sustainable growth for the nation’s backbone industries. Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, highlighted the summit’s goal: supporting MSMEs as a driving force of the Philippine economy.

“SM is not just a venue—it’s a partner in every MSME’s success story,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls. “When MSMEs grow, the nation grows. Every small business that thrives represents a dream realized, a livelihood sustained, and a community strengthened.” SM’s own growth story mirrors that of its MSME partners. From a small shoe store in Carriedo to 88 malls nationwide, SM understands the value of small beginnings. “Almost 70% of our tenants are MSMEs—their success is the foundation of SM’s continued growth,” San Agustin added. Through the SM for MSMEs program, the company provides high-foot-traffic spaces, market access, and visibility to help entrepreneurs scale sustainably.

Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College accepts her Plaque of Appreciation from Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet (right) by Seek Country Marketing head.

Key sessions addressed practical needs for MSMEs. Participants learned how to scale their first hire with Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet, explored AI applications for small businesses with Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College, and received insights on logistics and operations from Lalamove PH, 2GO Travel, and DITO BizBayan. Ms. Life Dawn Cervero of TikTok guided attendees on smart marketing on a budget, while a panel from BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo, and Asialink shared finance hacks for sustainable growth.

 

Industry experts Ms.Flor Tanay of Lalamove PH, Mr. Francis John Cha of 2GO Travel, and Mr. Gabriel Cui of DITO of BizBayan present logistics and digital solutions designed to help MSMEs scale.

MSME Summit 2025 partners BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo and Asialink host a panel learning session tackling finance hacks for MSMEs

Participants were motivated by real-life examples of growing Filipino enterprises, such as Kay & Karl Santos of 1919 Chocolate. The Partner Passport Challenge and partner demonstrations strengthened learning, networking, and hands-on involvement.

Attendees make their rounds at the Partner Passport Challenge, visiting different booths to learn about hiring solutions, business tools, digital platforms, and partner services that support MSME growth.

The MSME Summit 2025 reiterated SM Supermalls’ dedication to Filipino entrepreneurship by offering partnerships, initiatives, and venues that support MSMEs in their efforts to grow, innovate, and prosper in a quickly changing economy.

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News, Tech

Investing for Beginners: Metrobank Facilitates Easy and Secure Money Growth

If you’re a young professional or just starting out, you’ve undoubtedly heard the recommendation to “invest your money,” but the specifics are either unclear or seem difficult. In the past, it was also thought that starting your first investment required a substantial sum of money.

The good news is that institutions like Metrobank are making investing simpler, more accessible, and—above all—secure, especially for newcomers to investing.

The Bank recently introduced Unit Investment Trust Fund (UITF) Online, a feature in Metrobank Online–its internet banking platform– that enables clients to manage their accounts, make transactions, and explore investment options such as UITFs through a web browser on their computer or mobile device.

Metrobank UITF Online makes the intimidating process of investing into a simple, confidence-building experience available right at your fingertips.

Your Path to Investing Just Got Easier

Moving your hard-earned savings into a strategic investment is a sign of financial maturity. Metrobank developed this new platform to provide three powerful benefits designed specifically for beginners:

1. Expertise Takes the Lead

One of the biggest anxieties in investing is the fear of making a wrong move. With UITFs, that concern is handled for you. When you invest, your money is pooled with others and managed by multi-awarded and highly skilled Metrobank fund managers.

This means your portfolio is constantly monitored, strategically grown, and backed by professional expertise—giving you the peace of mind of knowing your money is in good hands without requiring you to become a full-time market analyst overnight.

2. Convenience, Wherever You Are

Your time is valuable. Metrobank UITF Online is built to give you the convenience of technology, allowing you to start your investment journey with your device whenever and wherever you are.

  • 24/7 Access:With Metrobank UITF Online, which you can access through your Metrobank Online account, you can start investing in UITFs, top up on your investments, and track your portfolio’s performance anytime, anywhere.
  • In good, secure hands:Metrobank’s digital platform is built with global security standards, ensuring your transactions are safe and giving you peace of mind as you grow your wealth.

3. A Practical Starting Point

Investing should feel accessible, not exclusive.

  • Affordable initial capital to invest:To help you take that crucial first step, you can begin your investment journey with a minimum amount of just PHP 10,000. This makes getting started in investing highly practical.
  • Plenty of options:You’ll have access to an extensive lineup of over 25 different UITF products through the platform, allowing you to choose an investment that best fits your comfort level and financial goals.

Metrobank is making sure that your transition from saving to investing is safe and simple by streamlining the entry point and combining digital convenience with expert management. It’s a big step to go beyond traditional savings, but with Metrobank UITF Online, you can do it with confidence.

Are you prepared to begin increasing your wealth? Visit https://www.metrobank.com.ph/investments/uitf to find out more about Metrobank UITFs.

Go to https://onlinebanking.metrobank.com.ph/ to begin investing with ease on Metrobank Online.

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Creating a Decarbonized Future for Malls with SM Prime

The 2MWp rooftop solar photovoltaic system installed at MOA Square—developed with TotalEnergies—generates approximately 3,000 MWh of clean energy annually, reducing an estimated 1,430 tons of CO₂ emissions each year.

The push to concentrate on long-term solutions for the planet’s climate issues comes at a crucial juncture, with the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) taking place in Belem, Brazil, in November.

This means that for SM Prime Holdings, Inc., achieving Net Zero by 2040 will become more than just a uniting force throughout its portfolio; it will also serve as a target for improved implementation, solid alliances, and group resilience.

Empowered partnerships

The “energy trilemma” refers to the difficulties that enterprises currently face: security, affordability, and sustainability. It is particularly pertinent to the future of urban resilience and real estate development.

SM Prime continues forging strategic partnerships with leaders in renewable energy to expand its clean energy capacity, drive innovation, and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future.

A comprehensive and diverse energy mix, according to SM Prime, is a strategy that helps producers of renewable energy, revolutionizes the sector, and is the larger plan to lessen dependency on fossil fuels.

SM Supermalls has already achieved more than 50% of renewable energy use across its malls by leveraging partnerships with key renewable energy players and direct procurement

This energy infrastructure reflects SM Prime’s significant investment in emerging technologies. In 2022, SM Prime’s partnership with Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. (ARI) activated its strategic plans, and in 2024, it further broadened its renewable-energy footprint by partnering with TotalEnergies. The addition of Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation in 2025, along with the steady increase of leading solar rooftop suppliers for SM Supermalls, helps meet the demands for renewables through on-site generation.

SM Sta. Rosa. SM Supermalls continues to scale its use of renewable energy across its nationwide portfolio. By increasing its solar rooftop capacity, SM helps make its malls cleaner, more energy-efficient, and more resilient for surrounding communities.

This commitment to sustainable energy drives positive change and contributes to SM Prime’s broader mitigation and adaptation strategies, supporting the country’s national framework in achieving its emission reduction targets.

Energy for the people

Resilient communities and enduring partnerships for climate-smart urban centers are part of these system shifts toward energy independence. It confirms that renewables are a strategic asset, especially as they become affordable and community-serving, empowering businesses nationwide.

It also supports a sustainable lifestyle. For the SM Green Movement, this balance is achieved by re-energizing neighborhoods to contribute to the climate crisis and offering more options to become energy and fuel-efficient, while improving quality of life.

The festive Christmas Holidays at SM Supermalls. Powered increasingly by renewable sources, SM malls continue to serve as vibrant community hubs—bright, welcoming spaces that reflect SM Prime’s commitment to sustainable and resilient development.

“We started the journey with our energy efficiency programs in the 90s,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “This lets us enjoy our mall spaces now because we maximize our energy use, lower operational costs, while hopefully, reducing our emissions,”

“Of course, we still have a long way to go. But we are trying to make renewable energy accessible at scale to our malls – not just to create decarbonization value for the communities we touch and work with – but to provide flexible, adaptive, and sustainable mall experiences. Most importantly, a safer future for all,” said Tan. ###

 

 

Lifestyle, News

SM City Baguio Converts Rain into Resources to Secure Tomorrow’s Supply

Nestled in the highlands, SM City Baguio showcases how natural abundance can be harnessed sustainably through its rainwater treatment facility.

SM City Baguio is demonstrating how innovation and sustainability can coexist as communities throughout the Philippines continue to struggle with water security. The mall helps ensure the water supply for its operations tomorrow by treating rainwater through its rainwater treatment system.

Rainfall is common in Baguio City, but water supplies are few. Some communities receive water from the Baguio Water District only twice a week, which they use to replenish their water tanks. Residents rely on delivery from private water suppliers when this runs out.

Through advanced filtration and treatment systems, SM City Baguio converts collected rainwater into potable-grade water, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in commercial developments

SM City Baguio’s pioneering system captures, treats, and stores rainwater to potable standards, producing up to 150 cubic meters of safe drinking water per day, with the capacity to double production to 300 cubic meters daily.

The innovative system supports mall operations and contributes to SM Prime’s Water for Tomorrow campaign, demonstrating responsible and efficient water use.

This initiative reduces reliance on local water utilities while ensuring the mall can continue serving millions of visitors responsibly. More importantly, it demonstrates how rainwater, when managed smartly, can be harnessed to address urban water scarcity.

“We’ve always valued innovation and creativity in the malls – we take it a step further now to where it truly matters. SM City Baguio’s rainwater treatment facility shows how the right innovation can secure tomorrow’s water,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.

Championing Water for Tomorrow

SM Prime’s Water for Tomorrow campaign advocates efficiency, innovation, resilience, and awareness in water resilience, and promotes the wider sustainability campaign of the SM Green Movement. Beyond Baguio, SM Prime’s water initiatives span the installation of advanced treatment facilities, recycling systems, and community engagement programs.

From 4.42 million cubic meters in 2023 to 5.59 million cubic meters in 2024, SM Prime reported a 26.23% increase in recycled water volume.

The Water for Tomorrow campaign from the SM Green Movement keeps showing how commonplace creativity can guarantee a sustainable future for communities, businesses, and the environment.

 

Lifestyle, News

For the 2026 Barangay & SK Elections, COMELEC and SM Supermalls have renewed their collaboration on voter registration and mall voting

COMELEC Commissioner Rey E. Bulay and COMELEC Chairman George Garcia, together with SM Supermalls Vice President for Mall Operations Junias Eusebio and Assistant Vice President Royston Cabunag, formally ink the renewed partnership for Voter Registration and Mall Voting for the upcoming 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

In a Memorandum of Agreement signed on December 2 at the COMELEC Office in Intramuros, Manila, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and SM Supermalls formally extended their collaboration for the Voter Registration Program and Mall Voting implementation for the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

The renewal is another significant step in both organizations’ joint efforts to improve voter services for Filipinos across the country in terms of accessibility, safety, and convenience.

In his message, SM Supermalls Vice President for Mall Operations, Mr. Junias Eusebio, highlighted the remarkable growth of the partnership over the years—from six participating malls during the 2023 BSKE, to 20 malls successfully joining the Mall Voting Program during the 2025 National and Local Elections. He also emphasized that, as of now, 23 SM malls are already scheduled to serve as voter registration sites—the most nationwide—with more locations to be added through May 2026. During the special registration in August 2025, 47 sites across the country opened their doors to voters, and over 2.8 million Filipinos have already registered in just the last 10 days.

Supermalls VP for Mall Operations Junias Eusebio spotlights how the Mall Voting Program is expanding to make voting more accessible for Filipinos nationwide.

“These numbers reflect not just steady expansion, but the public’s overwhelming preference for organized, secure, and accessible venues where they can register and exercise their right to vote,” he said. “This partnership proves that when the public and private sectors work hand in hand, we can modernize the voting experience and strengthen our democratic participation.”

SM Supermalls executives, led by VP Junias Eusebio, meet with COMELEC Chairman Mr. George Garcia to discuss expanded voter registration activities across SM Supermalls nationwide during the BSKE Mall Voting MOA Signing Ceremony at the COMELEC Office in Intramuros.

COMELEC officials expressed appreciation for SM Supermalls’ continued support, noting how mall-based voter services significantly benefit senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant voters, and first-time youth voters by offering an environment that is comfortable, well-lit, and highly accessible. The partnership comes at an opportune time where strong public participation early in the electoral cycle was evident through the 2.8 million Filipinos that have completed registration in the last 10 days alone.

COMELEC officials and SM Supermalls executives celebrate another milestone in modernizing and enhancing voter accessibility, with officials expressing their appreciation for SM Supermalls’ continued support.

Through this renewed agreement, selected SM malls across the country will continue to serve as venues for voter registration and mall voting, contributing to higher voter turnout and better overall election experience for communities.


Close-up of the MOA Signing. COMELEC and SM Supermalls officials formally sign the renewed partnership for Voter Registration and Mall Voting for the 2026 Barangay & SK Elections, marking another step in making voting more accessible nationwide.

COMELEC Chairman Mr. George Garcia, commissioners, important agency officials, and executives from SM Supermalls, represented by Vice President for Mall Operations Mr. Junias Eusebio, attended the ceremony.

Representatives from COMELEC and SM Supermalls pose for a ceremonial photo after the signing.

The collaboration highlights a common goal: enabling all Filipinos to fully engage in the nation’s democratic processes and bringing vital voter services closer to the general people.