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Jobseekers explore career opportunities and connect with recruiters during one of SM Job Fair’s nationwide hiring events, bringing employment closer to communities across the country.

As the workplace continues to change, securing a job is only one part of building a successful career. Staying competitive also requires continuously developing new skills and having convenient access to resources that support professional growth. This August, SM Supermalls continues to expand opportunities for Filipinos through its nationwide SM Job Fair program, connecting jobseekers with employment opportunities, free upskilling programs, and accessible government services to help them prepare for the evolving demands of the workplace. More than just a recruitment event, SM Job Fair has grown into a platform that empowers Filipinos throughout their career journey. By bringing together employers, learning opportunities, and essential government services, the program provides jobseekers with the tools and support they need at every stage of employment.

Reputable and prestigious employers from PMAP’s network like BDO and Coca-Cola, open doors to jobseekers during the two-day career event at SM City North EDSA last year.

PMAP Mega Job Fair headlines August lineup

Leading this month’s activities is the PMAP Mega Job Fair, happening on August 10–11 at the SM City North EDSA Skydome in partnership with the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP). Held in celebration of PMAP’s 70th Anniversary, this year’s event carries the theme “HumanITy Forward 2026: Empowering Talent in a Digital World,” bringing together top employers, HR professionals, graduating students, alumni, fresh graduates, career shifters, and jobseekers under one roof. The event builds on the Memorandum of Understanding between SM Supermalls and PMAP, reflecting their shared commitment to developing a future-ready Filipino workforce through employment, career development, and continuous learning.

Thousands of jobseekers filled SM City Fairview during a previous SM Group Job Fair, where applicants explored career opportunities and connected with recruiters under one roof. This year’s SM Retail Job Fair continues SM Supermalls’ commitment to bringing employment opportunities closer to communities.

SM Retail Job Fair offers careers within the SM Group

Jobseekers can also explore exciting opportunities at the SM Group Job Fair on August 18 at the Mall Atrium of SM City Fairview. In partnership with SM Retail, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Quezon City Public Employment Service Office (PESO), PSAC Jobs, PCCI, ECOP, and PHILEXPORT, the one-day hiring event offers applicants the opportunity to pursue careers across the country’s largest retail network—from department stores and supermarkets to fashion, home, and specialty retail brands. Applicants will have the chance to meet recruiters, submit applications, and participate in on-the-spot interviews.

Each event provides jobseekers with direct access to employers from various industries while allowing them to explore multiple career opportunities in one convenient location.

More job opportunities across the country

SM Supermalls continues to bring career opportunities closer to communities through its nationwide Job Fair program in partnership with DOLE and local PESO. Upcoming August Job Fair schedules include:

• August 10–11–SM City North EDSA Skydome
• August 12– SM City Daet
• August 13 – SM City Trece Martires
• August 13– SM City Tuguegarao
• August 18– SM City Fairview
• August 22– SM Seaside City Cebu
• August 24– SM Mall of Asia
• August 25– SM City Davao
• August 27– SM City Trece Martires

Building future-ready skills beyond the job fair

Recognizing that employability goes beyond getting hired, SM Supermalls continues to expand its free upskilling initiatives in partnership with government agencies, educational institutions, and industry organizations. These learning sessions equip participants with practical competencies in areas such as digital literacy, cybersecurity, career readiness, artificial intelligence, and other emerging workplace skills that help prepare Filipinos for today’s rapidly evolving job market.

Upcoming free upskilling sessions include:

• August 1 – SM City North EDSA
• August 1 – SM Mall of Asia
• August 8 – SM City North EDSA
• August 8 – SM Mall of Asia
• August 15 – SM City North EDSA
• August 22 –SM City North EDSA
• August 22 – SM Mall of Asia
• August 29 –SM City North EDSA

Schedules and participating malls may change without prior notice. For updates and the latest list of participating malls, scan the QR Code, visit SM Supermalls Job Fair Page and follow SM Supermalls’ official social media pages.

Who says learning can’t be fun? Participants enjoyed hands-on activities in AI-powered design, robotics, and cybersecurity during DICT’s free digital upskilling session at the SM Government Service Express (GSE) in SM North EDSA, helping build future-ready skills through the SM Job Fair initiative.

AI and Canva Training Participants explore Canva’s AI-powered design tools during DICT’s free digital skills training at the SM Government Service Express (GSE) in SM North EDSA, equipping learners with practical creative and workplace-ready digital skills.

Participants attend DICT-ILCDB’s free training on Introduction to Information Security Frameworks and Risk Management at the SM Government Service Express (GSE) in SM Mall of Asia. Conducted in partnership with SM Job Fair, the session equips IT professionals with practical cybersecurity skills for today’s digital workplace.

While many upskilling sessions are conducted in activity areas and learning venues across SM malls, selected SM Government Service Express (GSE) locations are also being activated as Upskilling Hubs, allowing communities to access free learning opportunities within these dedicated spaces.

Participants discover the power of artificial intelligence through the AI for ALL learning session at the SM Government Service Express (GSE) in SM City Manila. Through the SM Job Fair initiative and partnerships with APC and IBM SkillsBuild, SM Supermalls continues to make future-ready AI and digital skills more accessible to students, jobseekers, and professionals.

A one-stop hub for jobseekers

To make the employment journey even more convenient, many SM Job Fairs are complemented by the SM Government Service Express (GSE), available in select SM malls nationwide. Serving as a one-stop hub for government services, GSE enables jobseekers to conveniently process employment-related requirements and access essential services from partner government agencies—all within the convenience of an SM mall.

By bringing together job opportunities, government services, and free learning programs, SM continues to make the path from employment to career growth more accessible. According to Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls, the company believes that creating opportunities goes beyond the hiring process. Through its nationwide SM Job Fairs, free upskilling programs, and SM Government Service Express, SM aims to help communities find employment, build future-ready skills, and access essential government services conveniently within their communities.

More than a one-stop government service hub, the SM Government Service Express (GSE) at SM City Manila also hosts free upskilling initiatives through strategic partnerships, making learning and career development more accessible to communities.

Creating More Pathways to Opportunity

With the combined support of SM Job Fair, SM Government Service Express, and its expanding range of free upskilling programs, SM Supermalls continues to provide meaningful opportunities for Filipinos navigating an increasingly competitive and digital workplace. Whether looking for a first job, considering a career change, or gaining new skills for future opportunities, SM remains committed to creating accessible spaces where communities can work, learn, and grow. To learn more about upcoming SM Job Fairs, free upskilling sessions, and SM Government Service Express locations, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls on Facebook.

SM Cares’ multi-mall mental health caravan created safe spaces for young people to share, connect, and build resilience

When it comes to mental health, it is essential to create spaces where young people can express themselves, feel heard, and be reminded of their worth. Providing safe environments where they can openly share their thoughts and reach out for support is more important than ever.

As part of its commitment to empowering the next generation of Filipinos and building stronger communities through meaningful youth experiences, SM Cares launched Better Days: A Youth Mental Health Caravan. The initiative was organized in partnership with Mental Health Youth Hub PH, I AM MAD (Making A Difference), the National Youth Commission, and Global Peace Foundation Philippines.

The multi-mall initiative was geared toward creating safe, welcoming spaces where young people could speak openly about their experiences, learn practical ways to care for their mental well-being, and discover that they do not have to face difficult days alone.

Held at the SM North EDSA Skydome last July 3 to be followed by activations at SM Center Pulilan Atrium and SM City Molino Cinema 1  the caravan carried the theme, “A Space for Sharing of Hope, Creating Connections, and Building Better Communities.”

“At SM Cares, we believe a stronger nation begins with young people who know that their lives matter, that their voices have value, and that there are people and communities ready to stand beside them, said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls.  “And when young people feel heard, valued, and supported, they become better equipped to face challenges, care for others, and take part in building the communities they want to live in.”

Through conversations, panel discussions, activities, and messages from youth advocates and resource speakers, participants envisioned how days could get better and how they can help create them—for themselves and for others. The program encouraged young people to share their struggles, strengthen their resilience, and make every day self-care a routine.

Mental health advocates and friends of the cause such as broadcaster and television personality Kuya Kim Atienza joined the featured speakers at the SM North EDSA leg, helping inspire participants through conversations on well-being and resilience.

Better Days was carried out by SM Cares in collaboration with Mental Health Youth Hub PH, I AM MAD (Making A Difference), the National Youth Commission, and Global Peace Foundation Philippines, with support from the Global Youth Summit.

The initiative came after SM Cares, the National Youth Commission, represented by Commissioner Undersecretary Joseph Francisco “Jeff” Ortega, and Mental Health Youth Hub PH signed a memorandum of understanding on June 24. The agreement formalized the organizations’ collective commitment to promoting youth mental health and well-being, laying the groundwork for the Better Days initiative.

Three award-winning campaigns showcase how SM Supermalls transforms insights into experiences that resonate with Filipino communities.

SM Supermalls’ two Gold Awards and one Silver Award at the Marketing Excellence Awards 2026 recognize the company’s commitment to cultural storytelling, consumer insights, and impactful launch marketing.

Effective marketing is more than simply gaining attention—it is about building authentic connections. At SM Supermalls, campaigns are rooted in a deep understanding of the communities they serve, from highlighting local culture and consumer insights to developing launches that capture the unique character of each location.

This community- and consumer-focused approach earned SM Supermalls recognition at the Marketing Excellence Awards 2026, where it took home two Gold Awards and one Silver Award, highlighting its commitment to delivering meaningful and memorable experiences for Filipino communities.

Recognized at the 2026 Marketing Excellence Awards, SM Supermalls’ winning campaigns celebrate local culture, deepen consumer understanding, and create meaningful experiences for communities nationwide.

One of the Gold Awards recognized SM Lanang’s Mindanao Art for Excellence in Cultural Storytelling. More than an art initiative, the campaign transformed the mall into a platform for Mindanao’s artists, showcasing local creativity while fostering a deeper appreciation for Mindanao’s rich artistic heritage. By bringing art closer to everyday audiences, SM Lanang created meaningful cultural experiences that resonated beyond the gallery walls.

Another Gold Award was given to the SM Supermalls Consumer Insights Program under Excellence in Consumer Insights/Market Research. Built on continuous listening and data-driven consumer understanding, the program enables SM Supermalls to create more relevant experiences, strengthen customer engagement, and respond to the evolving lifestyles of the communities it serves nationwide.

Completing the recognition was a Silver Award for the SM City La Union Grand Opening in the Excellence in Launch Marketing category. The campaign went beyond introducing a new mall—it celebrated La Union’s identity and growing community, welcoming residents and visitors with experiences that reflected the province’s vibrant culture while establishing SM City La Union as Northern Luzon’s newest lifestyle destination.

“At SM Supermalls, we believe meaningful marketing starts with understanding people,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing. “Whether we’re celebrating local culture, learning from our customers, or opening new spaces that serve communities, our goal has always been to create experiences that genuinely resonate. These recognitions inspire us to continue creating programs that are relevant, purposeful, and meaningful for every Filipino.”

The awards highlight SM Supermalls’ ongoing dedication to creating experiences driven by consumer insights, inspired by local communities, and built around authentic connections. As the country’s most-loved mall, SM Supermalls continues to deliver meaningful, maxed-out experiences that showcase the people, places, and stories that give each community its distinct character.

The iconic MOA Globe lights up during the launch of the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign, a nationwide initiative led by the DILG in partnership with SM Prime to promote emergency preparedness.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. has joined forces with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to introduce the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign. The nationwide initiative seeks to raise public awareness of emergency preparedness while fostering a more unified and efficient emergency response system throughout the country.

Launched at the SM Mall of Asia Globe as part of National Disaster Resilience Month, the campaign gathered over 2,000 representatives from the DILG, BFP, PNP, local government units, barangays, and other partner organizations. Together, they highlighted the importance of collective action in creating safer and more disaster-resilient communities.

“At SM, we believe that resilience is a shared responsibility. Building safer, more prepared communities requires the government, businesses, and citizens to work together toward a common purpose,” said SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations Junias M. Eusebio.

“It is an honor for SM to be the private sector partner and to stand alongside the DILG, the PNP, and the Bureau of Fire Protection in launching the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign,” he added.

SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations Junias M. Eusebio underscores the importance of public-private collaboration in building safer and more resilient communities during the launch of the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign.

One of the campaign’s highlights was the simultaneous activation of Unified 911 campaign materials across SM Prime’s nationwide digital network, including the iconic MOA Globe and nearly 400 cinema screens nationwide. The synchronized rollout amplified the campaign’s message, leveraging SM’s extensive footprint to reach millions of Filipinos and encourage greater awareness of the country’s emergency response initiatives.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla graced the launch of the Unified 911 for Resilience campaign.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla and Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano led the event alongside senior officials from the DILG, the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the Office of Civil Defense, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Emergency 911 National Office, and the City Government of Pasay.

Through its collaboration with the DILG and other government agencies, SM Prime continues to back programs focused on public safety, disaster preparedness, and strengthening community resilience. Leveraging its extensive network of malls and digital channels nationwide, the company helps amplify initiatives that provide Filipinos with essential information and foster greater awareness of emergency preparedness.

As a leading integrated property developer in the Philippines, SM Prime remains dedicated to partnering with both the public and private sectors in creating safer, stronger, and more resilient communities for Filipinos nationwide.

Discover women-led Filipino brands through WomenBizPH

Women-led enterprises proudly showcased their local products at the Women Strong Trade Fair held at the Fashion Hall of SM Megamall last year

Every thriving business starts with the courage to take that first step. For many women entrepreneurs, the journey begins with a simple idea fueled by passion, shaped by perseverance, and inspired by the goal of building a brighter future for their families and communities.

Yet despite building impressive products and growing their businesses, many entrepreneurs continue to face the challenge of gaining visibility and reaching more customers.

Recognizing the important contribution of women to entrepreneurship and local economic development, SM Supermalls, through SM for MSMEs, continues to empower women-owned businesses through its partnership with WomenBizPH. This August, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs will spotlight inspiring women entrepreneurs at SM Megamall and SM City Cebu, followed by activations at SM City Lucena and SM City Zamboanga.

From proudly local delicacies to globally competitive designs, the fair is a continuous celebration of women’s ingenuity, resilience, and contribution to nation-building through enterprise.

More than a marketplace, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs serve as a platform where women entrepreneurs can introduce their brands to new customers, exchange ideas with fellow business owners, build meaningful connections, and gain valuable opportunities to grow their enterprises.

Behind every booth is a woman with a dream, a purpose, and a story worth sharing. Through WomenBizPH and SM for MSMEs, women entrepreneurs are given greater opportunities to showcase their brands, reach new customers, and continue building businesses that inspire communities nationwide.

The initial lineup for the SM Megamall leg alone features entrepreneurs from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, showcasing the richness of Filipino craftsmanship and regional creativity.

Visitors can discover a curated selection of proudly Filipino brands featuring handcrafted fashion, woven textiles, artisanal food, wellness products, accessories, jewelry, home décor, and lifestyle essentials.

Beyond shopping, each three-day trade fair offers a dynamic lineup of activities designed to empower entrepreneurs through learning and collaboration. Business talks, keynote sessions from government and industry leaders, exhibitor sales pitches, networking opportunities, fashion showcases, and recognition programs provide participants with valuable insights while celebrating the achievements of women-led businesses.

President Rhoda Caliwara and Board Secretary Mylene Abiva of WomenbizPH pose for a group photo at the grand opening of the Women Strong Trade Fair in SM Lanang.

“Women entrepreneurs continue to drive innovation, create livelihoods, and strengthen communities across the country. Through our partnership with WomenBizPH, we hope to provide more opportunities for women-led businesses to gain greater visibility, connect with more customers, and continue growing,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls.

L-R: WomenBizPH Board Secretary Mylene Abiva, together with SM Supermalls Executives Pats Dy, SAVP and Head of Marketing for SM Communities and Royston Cabunag, AVP and Department Head for SM Communities during the grand opening at SM Megamall.

 “Empowered women empower women. And when women come together to support one another in business, innovation and impact follow.” Said Mylene Abiva, Board Secretary, WomenBizPH.

Empowered and united! DTI Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona proudly supporting local weavers from North Luzon.

The partnership reflects SM Supermalls’ continuing commitment to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by creating accessible platforms where entrepreneurs can showcase their products, strengthen customer relationships, and expand their market reach through the country’s most loved mall network.

For shoppers, the experience goes beyond discovering unique local products. Every booth represents a personal journey—one built on courage, perseverance, and purpose. Behind every handcrafted item, locally made delicacy, or innovative creation is a woman who chose to pursue her dream despite the challenges of building a business.

Every purchase, every conversation, and every discovery becomes an opportunity to support women entrepreneurs who are creating livelihoods, preserving local craftsmanship, and contributing to stronger communities across the country.

Whether you’re looking for thoughtful gifts, proudly Filipino products, or your next favorite local brand, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs offer a chance to discover businesses with stories worth sharing—and the remarkable women behind them.

Visit the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs at participating SM malls:

• SM Megamall | August 10–12
• SM City Cebu | August 14–16

Explore inspiring Filipino brands led by women and support the entrepreneurs helping shape the future of local businesses through SM for MSMEs.

SM Cares, together with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), hosted The Blackout Zone at the CHED Central Office Auditorium inside the Higher Education Development Center Building in Diliman, Quezon City, from July 21 to 22, 2026.

Developed as part of SM’s Mall for All commitment to fostering inclusivity, the immersive exhibit gave students, educators, and members of the academic community an opportunity to experience navigating the world without sight in a safe and controlled setting. Through guided activities inspired by everyday experiences, participants were encouraged to move beyond perceived limitations and gain a deeper appreciation of the abilities, independence, and resilience of people with visual impairments.

“Sometimes, understanding begins when we are willing to step outside what is familiar,” said Richard V. Caluyo, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Cares. “By bringing The Blackout Zone closer to schools and the academic community, we hope to inspire young people and educators to help build learning environments where every person feels seen, respected, and included.”

For a few moments, participants stepped into complete darkness. Without relying on sight, they navigated familiar tasks through touch, sound, scent, and the reassuring guidance of others.

What emerged was something lasting: a deeper appreciation of how persons with visual impairments experience and move through the world each day.

Previously mounted in SM malls, The Blackout Zone has featured sensory and everyday activities such as tying a shoe, preparing coffee and sandwiches, identifying candy and scents, and experiencing Movies for the Blind. Its CHED installation marked a meaningful step beyond the mall setting, allowing the initiative to reach people who help shape classrooms, institutions, and future generations.

Through its partnership with CHED, SM Cares hopes to deepen conversations around accessibility and encourage higher education institutions to strengthen inclusive practices both inside and outside the classroom.

“Our united goal with SM for The Blackout Zone is for the program to serve as a catalyst for meaningful action,” said CHED Commissioner Michelle A. Ong. “Empathy allows us to dismantle the barriers that hamper inclusion and education of Filipinos with vision impairments. Through this shared effort, we hope to further guide policies tightly woven with real-life experiences to serve this sector better.  

The experience also served as a reminder that inclusion is not built through awareness alone. It grows through empathy translated into thoughtful actions—from offering clear assistance and respecting independence to creating spaces where people of all abilities can participate fully.

The Blackout Zone is part of SM Cares’ ongoing initiatives for persons with disabilities, supporting greater accessibility, awareness, inclusive employment opportunities, and active participation in the community.

Because although participants entered the exhibit without sight, many walked away with a clearer understanding of what inclusion truly means.

Metrobank is giving two of its well-loved credit cards a stylish refresh. The Metrobank M Free Mastercard® and Metrobank Cashback Visa now come with updated designs while keeping the benefits cardholders have come to enjoy.

The M Free Mastercard® continues to come with no annual fee for life, while the Metrobank Cashback Visa offers cardholders:

• 5% rebates on groceries and telco spend
• 2% rebate on all other retail purchases
• Up to ₱12,000 in rebates every year

Be one of the first to get your hands on Metrobank’s refreshed card designs by applying through the Metrobank credit card application page today.

Please note that some Metrobank pages may still feature the previous card designs. Once approved, applicants will receive the latest card designs.

Metrobank is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)

To know more and get the latest on Metrobank, visit our website, https://www.metrobank.com.ph/home and follow our official social media pages on Facebook, X, Instagram, and Tiktok.

Every promise begins with love.

Whether it’s helping our children pursue their dreams, giving our parents a healthier and more financially secure future, or building a life of happiness and stability with our partners, every promise we make comes from our desire to give our loved ones a more comfortable and brighter future.

The road to fulfilling these promises may not always be easy. But through consistent effort, thoughtful planning, and the right support, we can turn these promises into meaningful realities.

This idea underpins Pru Life UK’s parent company, Prudential plc’s new regional marketing campaign, Promises, made real, rolled out in eight markets across Asia, including the Philippines.

As the world continues to evolve, so do our hopes and aspirations for the people who matter to us. Through this initiative, Pru Life UK underscores its commitment to bringing every Filipino’s promise to life, helping them fulfill their dreams and build the future they envision for the people they love.

“Promises, made real captures Pru Life UK’s commitment to supporting millions of Filipinos in fulfilling their promises to their loved ones. Backed by solutions that address evolving needs, this campaign solidifies our dedication to creating lasting value that help every Filipino achieve their goals through every stage of life,” said Kathryn Cajucom, Vice President and Head of Brand and Integrated Marketing Communications of Pru Life UK.

With a 30-year legacy in the Philippines, Pru Life UK has demonstrated its role as a trusted partner of Filipinos in navigating life’s unexpected turns and in building a brighter future.

Through its innovative and reliable insurance solutions, Pru Life UK has been providing the necessary support that allows Filipinos to take meaningful steps to turn their promises into reality.

A testament to this commitment, Pru Life UK fulfilled Php 2.86 billion in total claims and benefits across 13,599 approved claims in 2025.¹ These figures underscore not only the scale of financial protection it extended to Filipinos, but also the many promises made real and lives made more secure.

“With the launch of Promises, made real, Pru Life UK strengthens our commitment to empowering Filipinos to move ahead with confidence and peace of mind. It also amplifies our message that they can always Count on PRU as they navigate major life decisions,” said Cajucom.

Alongside the launch of Promises, made real, Pru Life UK also released a short film highlighting the meaningful promises people make to their loved ones and the journey of turning those promises into reality.

To learn more about Promises, made real, visit Pru Life UK’s official website and social media channels.

¹ Pru Life UK 2025 Claims Report

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer centre is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer centre contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: [email protected].

The PRU customer centre processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information.

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information.

Notes:

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year 

Please use “Pru Life UK” when referring to the company.

Global oral care brand usmile is redefining everyday dental hygiene for Filipinos by expanding its presence in the Philippines with smart, clinically backed devices that help prevent oral health issues before they develop. By putting preventive care at the center of its mission, the brand encourages consumers to adopt healthier habits and make informed choices for better oral health.

Recognized as a leading name in oral care across the region, usmile continues to advance dental wellness through innovative technologies that help minimize the risk of oral diseases while promoting healthier smiles for users worldwide.

Encouraging Proactive Dental Wellness in the Philippines

In a country widely recognized as a cheerful nation, smiling is a cultural gesture in the Philippines, serving as a universal language communicating warmth, trust, and community. However, despite the value placed on smiles, oral health remains a significant challenge across the country.

For many Filipino families, the dentist’s chair is often a last resort, waiting until a toothache becomes unbearable before seeking help. Data from the Department of Health (DOH) indicate that 92.4% of the population has tooth decay, and 78% have gum disease.

Aligned with its “prevention over treatment” philosophy, usmile is committed to building healthier dental wellness in the Philippines by encouraging Filipinos to take a proactive approach to their oral health. By making advanced oral care technology more accessible, the brand aims to help more users establish better dental habits and reduce the risk of oral health concerns before they require costly treatments.

Through these efforts, the brand empowers users to navigate their day-to-day lives with a healthy and confident smile.

More than a Decade of Clinical-Grade Prevention

Since its founding in 2015, usmile has spent more than a decade developing smart oral care technologies. Today, it is trusted by over 86 million users in 30 countries, supported by rigorous clinical tests.

Through ongoing collaboration with dentists, oral health experts, and research institutions, usmile turns complex dental science into safe, efficient, and practical solutions for everyday use.

These include targeted formulas for teeth whitening toothpastes, highlighted by Optical White, which recently sold over 100,000 units in a single month. The lineup is completed by three other specialized types: Strength White, Fresh White, and Repair White. It also includes twin-line dental floss picks and water flossers with precision pulse technology. These innovations are engineered to prevent common concerns like cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup.

Since officially entering the Philippine market in February, usmile has steadily built momentum, becoming one of the top-performing toothpaste brands on TikTok Shop. Its growing success reflects the brand’s strong performance in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, where it recently earned the leading position in the premium oral care category and received the 2026 EPIC Award for Breakthrough Brand in E-commerce.

Take a proactive approach to oral health with usmile’s range of smart dental care products, including water flossers, whitening toothpaste, and other everyday oral care essentials. The collection is available through TikTok Shop and Shopee. Stay updated on the latest product launches and news by following usmile onTikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, or visit its official website usmile.com to learn more.

Justine Nycole Abad, Metrobank Brand Development Officer, discusses financial mindfulness, scam awareness, and the influence of social media on money decisions as she introduces students to Earnest, Metrobank’s online financial guide, during the Moneygurado Campus Series at CEU Manila.

As social media algorithms continue to shape the way young Filipinos shop, save, and manage their finances, Metrobank is encouraging students to be more intentional not only with their spending but also with the digital content they engage with, recognizing its influence on everyday financial choices.

Metrobank recently brought the second leg of its Moneygurado Campus Series to Centro Escolar University (CEU) Manila, where more than 100 students participated in discussions on budgeting, building healthy financial habits, recognizing scams, and understanding how social media can affect spending behavior.

During the session, students openly shared how social media influences their purchases, often through personalized content and recommendations.

“Sometimes you’re just thinking about an item and it’s already there on your feed,” one student said, reflecting a common experience among her peers in navigating today’s highly personalized online environment.

Metrobank highlighted that financial challenges surrounding the highly digital lifestyle of Filipinos often stem from emotional and social influences before they become budgeting concerns.

“Money decisions are emotional before they are mathematical. They start with FOMO (fear of missing out), pakikisama, hiya, and utang na loob. Every scroll on your phone now comes with a suggestion to spend, but not every piece of content should end with a checkout button. Some should leave you financially mindful,” Metrobank shared during the session.

To help young Filipinos navigate these influences, Metrobank introduced Earnest (@earnestph), a trusted financial educator on TikTok and Instagram. Through relatable and easy-to-understand content, Earnest serves as a trusted financial guide that explains financial concepts, encourages critical thinking, and empowers users to make informed money decisions.

Earnest covers topics such as budgeting, saving, debt management, scam awareness, investing, and responsible spending, delivering practical financial lessons in formats designed for today’s social media generation.

The discussion also underscored the importance of credible financial voices in digital spaces, where financial advice is abundant but not always reliable.

“It’s important that banks are on social media because that’s where students like us are,” one participant shared, emphasizing the need for trusted institutions to meet young people where they already consume information.

Students likewise noted that financial education extends beyond the classroom, and that content from credible institutions can help them resist impulsive spending, build healthier financial habits, and make smarter long-term decisions.

As part of the program, Metrobank also introduced students to the broader Moneygurado campaign through the third episode of its Moneygurado docuseries, The Price of Hiya. Featuring historian Prof. Xiao Chua, the episode explores how cultural values and social expectations influence the way Filipinos talk about money, approach financial challenges, and make financial decisions.

The docuseries encourages more open conversations about money and reinforces that financial resilience begins with informed choices, healthy habits, and access to trustworthy financial guidance.

Through the Moneygurado Campus Series, Metrobank continues to strengthen its commitment to making financial education more accessible, practical, and relevant for today’s youth. By bringing financial learning directly to schools and reinforcing these efforts through digital platforms, the bank seeks to equip more young Filipinos with the knowledge, confidence, and habits needed to make sound financial decisions and achieve long-term financial well-being.

In today’s algorithm-driven digital landscape, developing financial awareness begins with being intentional about the content you consume—because the best way to stay in control of your finances is to train your feed before it shapes your financial behavior.