News

Strengthening Cybersecurity Awareness
The partnership between SM Supermalls and the PNP-ACG highlights their shared mission to raise public awareness on cybercrime prevention. L-R: Karen C. Zabaljauregui, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Lifestyle, Inc., Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Operations Vice President for SM Supermalls, PBGen. Matthew P. Baccay, PNP Acting Director for Investigation and Detention Management, PBGen. Bernard R. Yang, PNP Acting Director for Anti-Cybercrime Group.

Through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today at the SM Supermalls Headquarters Boardroom in MOA Square, Pasay City, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) and SM Supermalls have formally established their collaboration.

The agreement demonstrates SM Supermalls’ dedication to promoting security and public safety by aiding the PNP-ACG in its endeavors to increase awareness regarding the prevention of cybercrime. PNP’s educational and awareness programs will receive free airtime from SM Supermalls and SM Cinemas under the deal, with their video ads being shown on cinema and LED screens in shopping centers across the country. These programs aim to raise awareness of the dangers of cybercrime, encourage responsible online conduct, and motivate proactive community participation in maintaining online safety.

Cinema Screens for Cyber Safety
Attendees watch as the PNP-ACG unveils its new video, set to be aired across SM Cinema screens nationwide. The campaign seeks to educate millions of mallgoers on the risks of cybercrime, promote responsible digital practices, and inspire proactive online safety.

The PNP-ACG, the national law enforcement unit mandated to prevent and combat cybercrime, emphasized the importance of public engagement in maintaining peace, order, and security in both digital and physical spaces. The MOA signing marks a strengthened collaboration between government and the private sector to safeguard Filipinos against online threats.

Championing Cyber Safety | PBGen. Matthew P. Baccay, PNP Acting Director for Investigation and Detention Management, delivers his message of support for the nationwide advocacy campaign against cybercrime, reinforcing the call for safer and more responsible digital communities.

Sealed with a Signature | PBGen. Bernard R. Yang, Philippine National Police Acting Director for Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) formalize their partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement signing at the SM Supermalls Headquarters Boardroom, MOA Square, Pasay City.

Safety Beyond Shopping | Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Operations of SM Supermalls, affirms the company’s commitment to providing safe spaces both offline and online during the MOA signing with the PNP-ACG.

“SM Supermalls is more than just a hub for shopping, leisure, and community gatherings. We are also a partner in ensuring the safety and well-being of millions of Filipinos who visit our malls and live their lives online. This partnership with the PNP-ACG is an extension of our mission to provide a secure environment both offline and online,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Operations of SM Supermalls.

A United Front Against Cybercrime | SM Supermalls executives and PNP-ACG officials come together to champion online safety through nationwide awareness campaigns.

This program is a component of SM’s larger campaigns to uphold public welfare, support government services, and create a community that is safer and more informed.

“I am happy that they came up with a job fair for government agencies. Many still want to serve and work for our government,” said Ken Gonzaga, who applied for several positions during the Job Fair event held at SM North EDSA.

This September, SM Supermalls will launch a statewide series of Job Fairs in collaboration with the Civil Service Commission (CSC), continuing to promote career prospects for Filipinos.

Every September, the program is a part of the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA), which honors the long history of public service. State universities and colleges, government-owned and controlled businesses, local government entities, and national government organizations will all offer employment chances to job seekers. Job seekers have the rare chance to discover their calling in public service at these job fairs.

Opening the doors to public service | The Civil Service Commission (CSC) together with SM Supermalls officially opened the Civil Service Anniversary Job Fair at SM City North EDSA in celebration of CSC’s 125th year.

Beyond Employment: Building a Nation of Servants

These job fairs go beyond recruitment. They highlight the critical role of civil service in nation-building, inspiring Filipinos to pursue careers that directly impact communities and transform lives.

Accessible and inclusive | Jobseekers of all ages line up for opportunities at the Job Fair of the Civil Service Commission in partnership with SM Supermalls at SM North EDSA.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan emphasized the importance of the collaboration: “SM is honored to celebrate 125 years of Philippine Civil Service by opening our malls as venues where Filipinos can discover not just jobs, but meaningful careers in public service. By working hand-in-hand with CSC and our government partners, we continue to support an empowered citizenry and sustainable nation-building.”

A Legacy of Service, A Future of Opportunities

The Civil Service Anniversary Job Fairs reaffirmed SM Supermalls’ role as a trusted partner of the government—helping agencies source their talents, empowering jobseekers to find stable and impactful careers, and bringing essential services closer to communities.

For many participants, these job fairs also meant finding purpose in serving the nation. Joanne Moriel, a fresh graduate has her eye on government employment: “Especially with what’s happening now in the country, I want to be part of the public sector to be able to help make a difference.”

In collaboration with the Civil Service Commission, SM Supermalls organized a number of job fairs across the country as part of the unique commemoration of the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary. SM City Tuguegarao hosted these on September 3, SM CDO Downtown Premier and SM City Butuan hosted them on September 3–4, SM City North EDSA hosted them on September 4, SM City Iloilo hosted them on September 4–5, and SM City Legazpi hosted them on September 5. The last stage of the festival will take place in SM City Baguio on September 9.

“Our partnership with SM Supermalls make it easier for Filipinos to explore careers in public service—opportunities that go beyond personal growth and contribute to the progress of our communities and the nation, the place is well-organized, convenient and very accessible for jobseekers” said Mary Grace Dugay, Director III, Civil Service Commission.

By converting malls into entry points where regular Filipinos may create remarkable futures, SM Supermalls is reaffirming its commitment to making opportunities in the public and private sectors accessible, convenient, and inclusive through its #SMJobFair campaign.

With a 3.785-Megawatt peak (MWp) solar power capacity, the SM City Fairview solar photovoltaic (PV) system has 6,882 solar modules over a total area of 4.3 hectares, currently making it the largest rooftop solar PV system on a commercial building in the country.

The path to a brighter future, according to SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is based on the thoughtful decisions we make every day and the stronger communities we create when we work together, especially as environmental issues continue to escalate.

At SM City Baguio, water is given a second life. Its water treatment facility helps conserve this vital resource while supporting a greener, more resilient future.

This is at the core of SM Prime’s environmental project, the SM Green Movement, and a call to action for communities across. The Green Movement started as a result of employee anecdotes about their decision to utilize energy wisely, reduce trash, and conserve water during the pandemic’s peak. In pursuit of shared prosperity and a more climate-resilient future, these little actions laid the groundwork for a larger movement that unites the nation, communities, and the company.

Focusing on waste, water, and energy, the SM Green Movement translates ambitious sustainability goals into everyday practices.

At the Mall of Asia Complex, water trucks carrying 100% recycled water help keep the property’s greenery thriving while promoting responsible water use.

It inspires suppliers, partner-tenants, residents, guests, and mallgoers alike to play their part in shaping greener, more livable cities. Each initiative is anchored on SM Prime’s mission: to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, advance water stewardship, and work towards a waste-free future.

“The SM Green Movement is our way of showing care—care for our planet, and care for the people who live in it,” said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin. “We’re not just building malls, homes, or offices—we’re building opportunities for everyone to be part of the solution. And the best part is, it starts with what we do every day.”

Collaboration That Drives Real Change

At the core of the Green Movement is a belief in the power of partnership. Lasting change is not a solo endeavor—it thrives through collaboration.

Bin it right! SM Cares promotes proper waste segregation with clearly marked bins for recyclables, disposables, and compostables—helping communities take part in building a waste-free

SM Prime continues to work hand-in-hand with local government units, NGOs, schools, community groups, and individuals to co-create solutions that meet both environmental needs and everyday realities.

“Our strength as a company comes from our ability to mobilize people around a common cause,” said San Agustin. “The SM Green Movement is all about collective impact. Every bottle recycled, every drop of water saved, every watt conserved adds up.”

A Movement for Generations to Come

The SM Green Movement is now a burgeoning advocacy and action platform. SM Prime is contributing to the reinterpretation of sustainability as something that every Filipino can achieve with each new story, new backer, and green initiative.

Pru Life UK President and CEO Sanjay Chakrabarty delivering his talk at the Manila Tech Summit.

Savings alone won’t be sufficient to protect Filipinos in their later years, according to Sanjay Chakrabarty, president and CEO of Pru Life UK, who has encouraged the Philippines to reconsider its retirement planning system.

During his speech at the Manila Tech Summit 2025, Chakrabarty praised the Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA) as a “bold and necessary initiative” to assist Filipinos in saving and investing, but cautioned that without insurance coverage, financial security might quickly crumble. He stated, “If financial protection is not ring-fenced against the uncertainties of life and health, it is fragile.”

He pointed out that as Filipino families shift from extended to nuclear households, the traditional safety net of family support is weakening. “This makes it imperative that we build new forms of protection—ones that are institutional, scalable and sustainable,” he added.

Chakrabarty called on the insurance industry to design products that are simple, affordable and accessible. Beyond addressing mortality, he said, the focus must also shift to morbidity risks such as long-term illness, disability and the need for care. “PERA offers a powerful bridge where insurance can become an embedded feature of the retirement journey,” he noted.

His remarks came during the panel “Open Finance x Insurance: The Future of Financial Empowerment and of Seamless Protection,” part of Day 1 of the two-day summit. The session, moderated by FinTech Alliance.PH Trustee and Pru Life UK Director Ida Tiongson, also featured ATRAM Trust Corporation Chief Experience Officer Deanno Basas, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Director for Fintech Innovation Jovelyn Hao, and Insurance Commission Deputy Commissioner for Technical Services Arturo Trinidad II.

Basas of ATRAM echoed Chakrabarty’s views, stressing how digitalisation and open finance are making retirement planning more accessible and transparent for Filipino savers. He said technology can expand access to PERA and bring retirement planning into everyday decision-making.

(Left to right) FinTech Alliance.PH Trustee and Pru Life UK Director Ida Tiongson; Insurance Commission Deputy Commissioner for Technical Services Arturo Trinidad II; Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Director for Fintech Innovation Jovelyn Hao; ATRAM Trust Corporation Chief Experience Officer Deanno Basas; and Pru Life UK President and CEO Sanjay Chakrabarty during the panel discussion tackling open finance and insurance

The Manila Tech Summit gathered policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders to explore the intersections of technology, policy, and financial inclusion. With over 80 percent of the Philippine population now online, the event highlighted the opportunities for digital finance to close the protection gap and strengthen financial security.

Pru Life UK reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and industry partners to support sustainable retirement planning. Chakrabarty came to the conclusion that insurance is a shield rather than just a financial instrument. “It is our duty to make sure Filipinos are resilient in the face of life’s uncertainties and financially prepared for retirement.”

Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph to find out more about the top life insurance in the Philippines.

MSMEs take the spotlight | Local entrepreneurs showcase coconut-based products proudly crafted by Filipino hands

Highlighting one of the nation’s most recognizable and potent agricultural resources—the coconut—the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Coconut Authority triumphantly opened the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair at SM Megamall from August 28 to September 2.

The fair, which was organized in accordance with Republic Act No. 11524’s Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), went beyond simply exhibiting goods; it evolved into a movement driven by coconuts that celebrated sustainability, creativity, and farmer empowerment.

Visitors found a wide range of culinary, wellness, and lifestyle items made by MSMEs and Filipino coconut farmers, demonstrating how the common coconut still opens doors and changes communities all over the country.

Sustainability Meets Innovation

From organic health supplements to biodegradable household items, the fair highlighted eco-friendly innovations that show how coconuts are shaping a more sustainable future.

Innovation with purpose | Eco-friendly coconut products highlight sustainability and green living.

“With support from DTI and SM, we’re able to reach more Filipino consumers and let more people discover our products. Kimes Foods today holds patents in 11 countries and distributes abroad.” – Dr. Priscilla Kimes, Kimes Foods (Cebu)

“Simula pa 2011, kasali na kami rito at full support talaga ang DTI sa amin. At kapag sa SM po ang trade fair, malakas talaga ang benta,” said Randy Pineda, President of the Association of Bamboo and Coco Crafts of Tiwi (Albay).

SM’s Strong Commitment to MSMEs

As a partner, SM Supermalls reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MSMEs by providing platforms that elevate local industries, create economic opportunities, and champion proudly Filipino-made products.

“By bringing together coconut farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs under one roof, the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair not only strengthens the coconut industry but also empowers the communities behind it. SM Supermalls is proud to be part of this mission,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

Crafted with care | Artisans present creative coconut handicrafts that blend tradition and modern design.

The 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair, which boasts more than 220 exhibitors countrywide, is a potent example of how public-private partnerships can promote equitable growth, support Filipino farmers, and forge a brighter future for MSMEs.

VIYLine CEO Viy Cortez–Velasquez joins merchants and influencers at the caravan, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to uplifting MSMEs.

This September 17–23, the VIYLine MSME Caravan will descend at SM City Masinag, bringing its colorful display of local entrepreneurship and proudly Filipino goods to the east. SM Supermalls and VIYLine Group of Companies organized the caravan, which has grown to be a popular venue for MSMEs to exhibit their businesses in some of the busiest shopping centers in the nation. From fashion treasures, home needs, and gourmet faves to beauty and wellness necessities, consumers can expect to learn about the creativity, tenacity, and grit of Filipino business owners.

Members of the dance group Mastermind—Jepoy Pelingo, David Inere, Ericson Apelado, Cedrick Mateo, Emil Kristian, Raymund Arago, and Kristian Vienn Gonzalez—energize the crowd with a special performance during the caravan’s opening program. Mastermind is known for their viral dance covers and creative collaborations with local brands.

Toni Fowler, owner of FAB, and Vince Flores make their grand entrance at SM City Muntinlupa to show support for the VIYLine MSME Caravan.

Host Tita Krissy Achino (middle) and Even PH co-owners Venice Velasquez and Eve Castro show their support for fellow MSMEs during the caravan’s opening week.

At its previous stops around Luzon, such as SM City Dasmariñas, Bacoor, San Pablo, Santa Rosa, Calamba, Fairview, Cabanatuan, and Muntinlupa, the caravan has already created a stir, attracting excited crowds ready to meet influencer-entrepreneurs and support local brands.

“At SM, we are proud to partner with VIYLine in championing MSMEs by giving them spaces where they can thrive, connect with customers, and grow,” said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President, SM Supermalls. “The caravan has proven that supporting local is not just a trend, but a movement.”

Expect a lively week at SM City Masinag, complete with interactive booths, meet-and-greets with influencer-entrepreneurs, and budol-worthy deals that celebrate the best of Filipino MSMEs.

All eyes were on stage as VIYLine’s roster of influencer-entrepreneurs gathered for a special meet-and-greet at SM City Muntinlupa. Students, fans, and young shoppers filled the venue with excitement, eager to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities while celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of the VIYLine MSME Caravan.

From September 17 to 23, you can catch the VIYLine MSME Caravan at SM City Masinag’s Upper Ground Level. Encourage local. Make purposeful purchases. Attend the VIYLine MSME Caravan to honor Filipino talent.

Bringing Innovation & Business through SUSTEX 2025

SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy and DOST Secretary Renato Solidum seal their commitment to environmental stewardship at the launch of the first-ever SM Sustainability Expo.

The first SM Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025) was formally held at the SMX Convention Center Aura in Taguig by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. through SM Supermalls, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies.

SM and DOST Leaders strike the Beat of Sustainability and lead the ceremonial Solidrum and angklung performance, symbolizing harmony and collective action at the inaugural Sustainability Expo 2025.

Over 50 exhibitors, representatives from government agencies, the commercial sector, the international community, and sustainability advocates gathered for the two-day event, which had as its theme “Innovation for Environmental Stewardship,” to present innovative solutions that promote a more resilient and environmentally friendly future.

Symbolic Opening: “Beat of Sustainability”

The Expo opened with the ceremonial “Beat of Sustainability,” led by DOST Secretary Renato Solidum and SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy, who together struck the Solidrum—a bamboo drum shell developed by the DOST – Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI).

They were joined by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, SM Prime Vice President Jessica Sy-Bell, SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio, and other dignitaries, who played the angklung, a UNESCO-recognized bamboo instrument. The performance symbolized harmony and collective action in advancing sustainability.

Leadership Perspectives

In his opening remarks, Hans T. Sy emphasized that sustainability lies at the heart of SM’s business and highlighted the importance of partnerships—“Public-private partnerships such as this show how science and business can unite to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. We encourage more of this as the private sector can provide support to projects by local scientists.”

Secretary Solidum echoed this view, noting that SUSTEX demonstrates how innovation and science can strengthen national resilience and drive a circular economy, as championed by similar DOST efforts.

“Through OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All, we ensure that the science, technologies and innovations we develop are not just theories in journals or prototypes in laboratories—they are real solutions, accessible to businesses, communities, and every Filipino. This is also what we mean by Agham na Ramdam—science that is not distant; science that is felt, lived, and experienced by people in their everyday lives,” Solidum shared.

“My call is simple: enough talk. We’ve had summits, forums, declarations that fill up shelves and inboxes. What we need now is proof. Businesses must set their sights on real, tangible goals—not pretty brochures, not slogans, but numbers you can measure, promises you can check.”

Mr. Hans Sy and Ms. Jessica Sy-Bell and visit the DOST-AKO Packaging booth at SUSTEX 2025, underscoring their support for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions.

Engaged discussions take place at the PARMS booth during SUSTEX 2025, aboutas visitors learn collaborative solutions for recycling and materials management.

Innovation Marketplace: Over 50 Exhibitors

SUSTEX 2025 featured more than 50 exhibitors showcasing technologies, initiatives, and products that reflect Filipino ingenuity and global collaboration. Notable exhibits included SM Prime and SM GUUN’s “Waste-Free Future” campaign, which highlighted their joint initiative with Japan’s GUUN Environmental Company on advanced waste management.

ARISE Philippines showcased efforts to advance disaster resilience through private sector collaboration. The DENR’s Loop Forward Program promoted circularity and large-scale waste reduction. The DOST-FPRDI centerpiece featured sustainable Lalang Pandan furniture, essential oils from Philippine plants, and bamboo musical instruments. Meanwhile, the DOST-CHRG presented innovations in electric vehicle technology.

A panel discussion at the Ignite Stage during SUSTEX 2025 gathers experts to share actionable insights on sustainability and innovation.

DOST leaders engage in a Fireside Chat at the Ignite Stage during SUSTEX 2025, sharing perspectives on science-led development and collaboration.

A Catalyst for Action

Running from August 29 to 30, the Expo featured interactive sessions, product showcases, and knowledge exchanges. The event reinforced SM’s continuing sustainability roadmap, including its Waste-Free Future campaign and commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040.

“May this Expo be more than an event. May it be a catalyst for collaboration, a hub for practical solutions, and a reminder that business can be a force for good—when guided by purpose, discipline and partnership,” Sy concluded.

By incorporating green design, energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and environmental stewardship into its 88 malls in the Philippines, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers—is celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving with Every You. This evolution aims to create inclusive spaces that enhance communities, support climate action, and guarantee a better, more sustainable future for generations of Filipino shoppers.

This September, the country’s biggest celebration of books is back—and REX is making it extra special!

The Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) returns this September, and Rex Education is set to mark the occasion with a milestone celebration. As the company commemorates its 75th anniversary, REX is bringing extra excitement to the country’s biggest book event through free admission tickets, exclusive promos, and a showcase of its journey in championing education.

Running from September 10 to 14 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, the celebration begins with a special treat from REX—free admission tickets. What’s great? Claiming a pass is quick and easy! Just scan the QR code below, download and print the ticket, and present it at the entrance. With this free ticket in hand, guests are in for a 5-day treat at the fair—filled with books, fun learning activities, and new offerings waiting to be explored.

Promos, discounts, and exclusive deals await you!

Along with free admission, visitors can look forward to special promos, exclusive discounts, and exciting surprises to be announced in the coming days. Expect budget-friendly deals on activity books, storybooks, and other educational resources, as well as discounts on some of REX’s bestselling titles in Basic Education, Higher Education, and Law.

Raffle prizes and fun activities for young children will also be part of the REX booth experience, making it a highlight for teachers and families, especially, their little explorers. With thousands expected to attend, visitors are encouraged to come early to catch the best offers before they run out.

A 75-Year Journey—A Celebration with Every Edukampyon

For Rex Education, MIBF is a tradition that supports its mission of nurturing every child for lifelong learning. This year, as REX celebrates seven and a half decades of standing alongside Filipino learners, its presence at the fair takes a deeper meaning. The booth will not only showcase books and learning solutions but also highlight the milestones, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped REX’s 75-year journey. From publishing trusted titles to creating innovative educational tools, REX has always walked hand in hand with teachers, parents, students, schools, and learning communities in championing quality education for all.

As MIBF 2025 opens its doors, REX invites every Edukampyon to join in this milestone celebration. Whether you are searching for affordable and high-quality books, exploring new resources for teaching and learning, or simply enjoying the love of reading with your family or friends, REX will always have something special for you.

The MIBF has long been the country’s biggest and longest-running book fair, bringing together over 200 local and international exhibitors and consistently drawing massive crowds each year. It has become a gathering where readers, teachers, students, parents, and professionals connect, share their love of reading, explore educational resources, and create memorable experiences together.

For updates on promos and activities at the fair, follow REX on Facebook and Instagram, or visit the official MIBF website at www.manilabookfair.com.

See you at MIBF 2025! We can’t wait to welcome you to REX’s booth!