Monthly Archives

July 2025

Food, Lifestyle

Through the Weekend Market at SM Supermalls, CDA Strengthens Cooperatives

On Monday, July 1, 2025, SM Supermalls and the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the SM Supermalls headquarters in Pasay City, thereby establishing a strategic alliance. Through the SM Weekend Market, a venue devoted to exhibiting regional goods, indigenous talent, and Filipino entrepreneurship, the partnership initiates a collaborative endeavor to strengthen Filipino cooperatives by providing them with access to busy mall areas.

L-R: Royston A. Cabunag, Assistant Vice President and Lead for MSME and Job Fairs, Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls formalized partnership through a MOA signing with CDA Chairperson Usec. Alexander B. Raquepo and CDA Administrator Asec. Santiago S. Lim, that aims to empower Filipino cooperatives through the SM Weekend Market initiative.

The MOA was signed by Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo, CDA Chairperson, and Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls, in the presence of key officials from both institutions. “This is a historic partnership between the private and public sectors,” said Usec. Raquepo during his remarks. “We take great pride in this collaboration with SM Supermalls, which represents a powerful step forward in uplifting our micro, small and medium cooperative entrepreneurs. This model partnership will not only provide access to markets, but help elevate the economic well-being of our communities.”

Fresh, proudly Filipino produce takes the spotlight supporting local farmers and cooperatives at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Calamba.

Shoppers enjoy direct access to farm-fresh produce at the SM Weekend Market where farmers are given dedicated selling spaces in select SM Supermalls.

Local farmers showcase and sell their fresh harvest to shoppers at the SM Weekend Market, a platform by SM Supermalls that connects producers directly to consumers in high-traffic mall locations.

Under the agreement, CDA will endorse eligible cooperatives across the country to participate in the SM Weekend Market. In turn, SM Supermalls will make space available in key mall locations for a minimal fee—intended only to help cover maintenance costs. “The SM Weekend Market was born out of a simple but powerful idea — to give farmers and local producers, especially those in cooperatives, the chance to bring their goods closer to the people, in places they wouldn’t normally have access to,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations at SM Supermalls. “With CDA as our partner, we are excited to open more doors and more mall spaces to co-ops across the country. This partnership will allow more communities to thrive, more stories to be told, and more Filipino-made products to be celebrated.”

Lively displays of locally grown vegetables welcome shoppers at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Southmall.

In the upcoming months, additional improvements and market rollouts are anticipated as the event launches a statewide partnership between CDA and SM Supermalls

July 3, 2025 by
Food

At SM Supermalls, CDO’s Audacious New Firsts Get Started

Discover new ways to dine – only at SM.

Have a craving for some delicious seafood? What about ready-to-go, freshly made coffee? It’s all about what you want this month; take a look at these recently opened dining and drinking establishments that are coming your way.

With these new firsts, you have every incentive to make life more fulfilling. You deserve the best to satiate your cravings, whether it’s decadent dining or short coffee breaks.

Give yourself endless opportunities to experience the good life at SM Supermalls—right here in Cagayan de Oro City—and have a genuinely fulfilling day.

Fresh Eats Straight from the Sea at Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant

Experience a unique dining experience with Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant—a bold new take on Filipino culinary traditions perfect for every seafood lover.

This pork-free restaurant offers flavorful dishes with a modern twist, including their signature Balangay Seafood Boil: a hearty platter of fresh seafood served in a custom-built Balangay-style boat—honoring Filipino heritage in a festive spread. Each dish is carefully plated with built-in burners, keeping the food deliciously hot and freshly cooked right at your table.

Indulge in the sea’s bounty, and experience a burst of flavor with this beachside-inspired dining escape at Level 5, SM CDO Downtown.

Coffee On-the-Go with Starbucks Drive-thru

Starbucks, one of the country’s most popular cafés, has opened its first-ever drive-thru store here in Northern Mindanao—giving our busy coffee lovers the convenience of enjoying their favorite blends and brews while on the road.

Kickstart your day with your go-to Iced Latte. Feel adventurous and try one of their seasonal signature brews. Pair your handcrafted coffee or non-coffee drink with a delicious Doughssant.

You can now bring Starbucks with you wherever you go or whatever your mood is. The North Wing of SM City CDO Uptown is always a quick stop for your caffeine fix, whether you’re going to work, running errands, or just enjoying the city.

Experience new dining options that are exclusive to SM Supermalls, ushering in a #NewEraOfFirsts.

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

July 3, 2025 by
Lifestyle

Urban air quality is improved by SM Supermalls

SM North EDSA houses the first Sky Garden in an SM mall, highlighting endemic plants and water features that bring nature onto a rooftop.

Nothing compares to basking in the stunning vistas, large arcades, and verdant mall surroundings. Shopping at SM Supermalls is about more than simply making purchases; it’s about taking advantage of areas created to be more comfortable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. More than before, SM’s dedication to green infrastructure is influencing urban air quality and making the city a more livable place for all.

Designing for people and the planet

SM Supermalls prioritizes people-centric design, creating welcoming spaces that balance nature with modern convenience. The SM Mall of Asia’s arcades and the MOA Sky, for example, offer open, breezy walkways, encouraging leisurely strolls and even outdoor dining and entertainment. Meanwhile, SM Aura and SM North EDSA’s Sky Garden—the first in an SM mall—integrates lush vegetation and water features to reduce indoor heat, improve air quality, and create cooling effects in dense urban areas.

The SM MOA Sky showcases greenery and open-air spaces that promote cleaner, cooler urban living.

Championing bike-friendly cities

Beyond providing open spaces, SM Supermalls is leading bike-friendly initiatives, with over 5,000 bike parking spaces across its properties. Studies show that replacing short car trips with biking can cut carbon emissions by up to 90%, significantly reducing air pollution and its long-term impact on climate change.

Cyclists gather at SM Seaside City Cebu, championing greener, healthier urban mobility.

Bikers enjoy the convenience of secure parking as SM Supermalls champions eco-friendly transport solutions.

Greening malls with native flora

Additionally, select SM malls feature endemic plant species that enhance air quality and support local biodiversity, filtering pollutants while creating a natural habitat for urban wildlife. These green spaces are designed not just for aesthetics but to actively contribute to a healthier environment.

Making public transport more convenient

To make sustainable transport more accessible, SM Supermalls operates transport terminals that support public transportation, providing seamless connections to buses, jeepneys, and other modes of transit. These terminals encourage commuters to opt for public transport, which can significantly reduce individual carbon footprints and traffic congestion, contributing to cleaner air and more efficient urban mobility.

Powering the shift to EVs

Recognizing the need for cleaner transportation, SM Supermalls has also installed Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) in 69 malls nationwide. By providing essential infrastructure for electric vehicles, SM is helping to lower carbon emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels—a crucial step in improving urban air quality. Studies indicate that EVs produce up to 60% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles, making them a key solution for reducing pollution in crowded city centers.

Monitoring air, empowering communities

SM’s commitment to sustainability extends to air quality monitoring, ensuring that urban pollution levels are tracked and addressed. Under SM Prime Holdings, the company partnered with Quezon City to establish an air quality monitoring system that records environmental data and provides updates through a publicly accessible website. This initiative allows communities to stay informed while encouraging long-term strategies for a cleaner, healthier urban space.

SM Supermalls monitors air quality in real time, empowering communities with data for cleaner, healthier cities.

A greener future for urban living

From green roofs and bike-friendly amenities to EVCS and air quality monitoring, SM Supermalls is redefining retail spaces with a deeper environmental purpose. Every visit to an SM mall contributes to a better urban future, where sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.

40 years of building better communities

With 40 years of community service under its belt, SM Supermalls is the Philippines’ top retail and leisure destination. In keeping with its heritage, SM continues to lead the way in environmental sustainability by developing innovative waste, water, and energy solutions as well as catastrophe resilience programs.

 

 

July 3, 2025 by
Lifestyle

Community at Work: SM Cares Accompanying Brigada Eskwela 2025

Driven by the spirit of bayanihan, SM employee volunteers join Brigada Eskwela to help public schools prepare for the new academic year—fostering cleaner, safer, and more welcoming spaces where students and communities can thrive.

SM Supermalls organized thousands of volunteers throughout its malls countrywide from June 9–13, 2025, in support of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) annual Brigada Eskwela effort to assist in getting public schools ready for the new school year. The theme for this year’s Brigada Eskwela was “Nagkakaisa para sa Handa at Ligtas na Pagbabalik Eskwela.”

SM employees in action—offering their hands and hearts to help schools gear up for another inspiring year of learning

SM North EDSA volunteers sweep hallways for Brigada Eskwela—helping create clean, focused spaces where students can learn and grow.

Brigada Eskwela 2025 was once again attended by SM Supermalls, a longtime DepEd partner, as part of its larger dedication to inclusive community development, environmental sustainability, and youth empowerment.

The initiative was rolled out across 75 SM Supermalls, with more than a thousand employee-volunteers working hand-in-hand with DepEd, local government units (LGUs), school representatives, and community members. It empowered community volunteers to make a tangible impact by helping schools prepare safe, clean, and inspiring learning environments.

“We are proud to be part of Brigada Eskwela again this year. Education is the cornerstone of nation-building, and through volunteerism and shared responsibility, we aim to help create safe and welcoming learning spaces for students all across the country,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

An employee volunteer from SM Center Pasig organizes learning materials as part of Brigada Eskwela efforts to support public school readiness.

With every wipe and every gesture of care, SM City Novaliches volunteers bring classrooms closer to a brighter, cleaner start.

Demonstrating hands-on commitment, an employee volunteer from SM City Baliwag carefully stacks hollow blocks—contributing to stronger school infrastructure.

Embodying the spirit of bayanihan, SM City Sorsogon employee volunteers paint school chairs with dedication—bringing new life to classrooms through Brigada Eskwela.

Employee volunteers from SM Center Ormoc paint classrooms as part of Brigada Eskwela, helping create more inspiring learning spaces where students can thrive.

An SM City Mindpro volunteer helps clean the school grounds during Brigada Eskwela—making way for brighter days and better learning.

SM employee-volunteers engaged in a wide range of preparatory activities including classroom cleaning and disinfection, repainting of walls and learning spaces, repairs of desks and chairs, and the turnover of essential learning materials. Through shared efforts, this annual initiative not only enhanced school facilities but also strengthened community ties and encouraged a culture of unity, pride, and collective responsibility for education.

The program benefited 66 public schools across the country, helping ensure that thousands of Filipino learners return to a clean, safe, and functional learning environment when classes resume.

By supporting Brigada Eskwela 2025, SM Supermalls reinforces its continued support and alignment with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, reflecting its commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable development in every community it serves.

Under SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility division of SM Supermalls, which supports programs for people with disabilities, senior citizens, the environment, women and breastfeeding mothers, children and youth, and bike-friendly initiatives, this initiative also contributes to SM’s larger advocacy.

Visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or follow @OfficialSMCares on social media for additional updates on SM’s social good projects.

 

 

 

 

 

July 3, 2025 by
Fashion, Lifestyle

SM was pleased to honor local MSMEs during the DTI Wedding Fair held at SMX Aura

DTI kicked off the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025 at SMX Aura headed by DTI Sec. Cristina Roque, bringing together MSMEs from across the country in a celebration of love, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

The Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025, which took place at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier, from June 27 to 29, featured love, tradition, and local enterprise. Over 100 Filipino MSMEs were successfully featured at the three-day event, which was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). It celebrated Filipino ingenuity and created genuine business prospects in the wedding and events sectors.

From couture bridalwear and floral arrangements to photography, catering, and travel services, the exhibition brought together wedding planners, creatives, and couples getting ready for their special day. Day 1’s high point was a runway fashion display with Filipino bridal designers who updated sustainable design and traditional textiles for today’s bride. The creative industries—from graphic design and stationery to music and event production—were highlighted in presentations and interactive displays on days two and three, demonstrating how weddings can represent both individual narratives and cultural pride.

Filipino bridal designers wowed the crowd with modern, sustainable, and culturally rooted creations at the Wedding Fair Fashion Show—proudly highlighting Tatak Pinoy talent.

“Through partnerships like this, SM Supermalls remains committed to helping build the future of Filipino MSMEs by providing entrepreneurs a platform to showcase their work, nurture local talent and creativity, and strengthen economic resilience.” shared Joaquin San Agustin, EVP of SM Supermalls.

MSME designers wowed guests with their collection of bridal gowns, groom’s suits, and entourage wear—featuring silhouettes that range from classic romance to modern minimalist, all crafted with Filipino finesse.

A unique highlight at the DTI Wedding Fair: MSMEs showcased elegant Capiz shell dining wear—from plates and chargers to napkin holders and centerpieces—blending sustainability with sophistication.

Filipino tradition met timeless elegance at MSME booths featuring modern takes on the Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana—from hand-embroidered details to contemporary silhouettes perfect for formal Filipino weddings.

Filipino-made bridal jewelry and accessories took the spotlight at the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025, with MSME booths showcasing handcrafted tiaras, pearl earrings, heirloom rings, and bridal bling rooted in Filipino artistry.

The 2025 Wedding Fair was essentially a celebration of love, culture, and entrepreneurship rather than just an event. It emphasized that when Filipino MSMEs prosper, our communities—and the country—grow more robust, swiftly, and attractively.

Visit msme.smsupermalls.com to download your MSME application or email us at [email protected] with your most innovative product and preferred location. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your business with SM Supermalls today!

July 3, 2025 by
Entertainment

“Art for Everyone” Takes Over SM Supermalls!

With the statewide debut of Art for Everyone, a month-long celebration of creativity, culture, and community across 18 malls this July, SM Supermalls continues its steadfast support for Filipino arts.

Building on the 2024 Art Market’s incredible success—which won the esteemed Gold Stevie® Award for Innovation in the Use of Events—SM Supermalls is reaffirming its dedication to supporting the regional art community. In addition to celebrating local innovation, last year’s Art Market featured over 1,200 Filipino artists and over 4,000 pieces of art, giving both established and up-and-coming artists significant support.

The overwhelming success of the event sparked renewed enthusiasm within the community, with many of last year’s participating artists eager to return, a testament to the event’s impact and SM’s growing role as a catalyst for Filipino creative expression.

Ilonggo artists (L-R) Joel Ferraris and Joy Fernando at last year’s SM Art Market in SM City Iloilo.

Now, Art for Everyone expands that vision. This year’s initiative transforms participating malls into vibrant art destinations, where both well-known and budding local artists can exhibit to sell their works, engage with new audiences, and contribute to a flourishing creative community.

Vibrant works of art at SM Megamall.

Art for all ages at SM Aura.

Throughout July, guests can immerse themselves in a rich artistic expression — from paintings, photography, and prints to digital art, mixed media, and sculpture—all proudly created by homegrown talent. The program invites art enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds to explore and celebrate Filipino creativity.

Discover various mediums of art at SM’s Art for Everyone!

Art for Everyone is more than just an art fair—it’s a celebration of the imagination, passion, and skill of local artists. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a budding artist, or someone looking to discover a new favorite artist, there’s something here for you.

Feast your eyes on Art for Everyone at 18 malls nationwide.

Participating malls and schedules:

*Visit your favorite SM mall’s social media for up-to-date information:

  • SM City Clark – July 1 to 14
  • SM J Mall – July 1 to 14
  • SM Lanang – July 7 to 16
  • SM City Baguio – July 13 to 26
  • SM Seaside City Cebu – July 14 to 31
  • SM City Sorsogon – July 15 to 28
  • SM City Iloilo – July 15 to 31
  • SM City Bacolod – July 15 to 31
  • SM Center Dagupan – July 16 to 30
  • SM City Baliwag – July 18 to 31
  • SM City Dasmariñas – July 20 to 27
  • SM CDO Downtown – July 20 to 30
  • SM City Santa Rosa – July 21 to 27
  • SM Center Angono – July 21 to 31
  • The Podium – July 22 to 27
  • SM City North EDSA – July 25 to 31
  • SM Aura – August 15 to 24

Participate in this vibrant art extravaganza! Explore the amazing artwork on exhibit in various SM malls and find your new favorite artist. Inspire others, unleash your own creativity, and tell your loved ones about it

For updates and other information, go to https://www.smsupermalls.com. Don’t pass up this opportunity to be inspired and fully immersed in your creativity.

 

 

 

July 3, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

SM Prime: Establishing facilities for communities devoid of plastic

The Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable-labeled bins support SM’s waste-free future initiative and align with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022.

The United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) predicts that by 2050, the world’s plastic manufacturing would have reached 1,100 million tonnes, with dire implications for the environment, society, economy, and human health.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the biggest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, is dedicated to building prosperous, sustainable cities.

SM Prime supports the observance of International Plastic-free Day on May 25 and its call to reconsider single-use plastics (SUP) for a single day as part of its environmental plan for a waste-free future. The group-wide efforts to support the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022 are also celebrated by SM Prime.

A group-wide movement for the EPR Law

The SM group, working with its Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS), is pursuing a group-wide strategy to comply with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)’s EPR Act of 2022.

Formally known as Republic Act 11898, the EPR law requires companies to take responsibility for the recovery of their plastic packaging products and to pursue waste management programs.

Acknowledging the challenges and realities for businesses and on-ground operations through its EPR working group committee, the SM group commits to a plan of action in reducing and recovering its plastic footprint within the given five-year period, sharing alternatives and new technologies to respond to the growing global crises, and establishing partnerships with government agencies and other private institutions.

As the property arm of the SM group, SM Prime’s commitment to a waste-free future aims to create the needed infrastructure that will help support and maintain plastic waste management strategies.

Crucial to waste recovery efforts, SM Prime equips its properties with a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), and standardized waste segregation and management practices to help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. A joint venture with a Japanese environmental solutions company, the SM GUUN Environmental Company, Inc. (SGECI), converts non-recyclable waste into cement fuel or “fluff fuel” for eco-conscious cement companies like APO Cement, Holcim, and Taiheiyo Cement, as part of its “co-processing” practice.

SM GUUN converts disposable waste into fluff fuel, which helps unload overfilled and over-capacity landfills.

Beyond compliance

SM Prime continues with its established programs such as the nationwide Trash to Cash recycling market. Since 2007, it has been one of SM Supermalls’ flagship programs that continues to be more relevant given the times.

Available in all 87 SM malls, the Trash to Cash program has since been recognized as a rewarding community-driven practice for surrounding residents and mall tenants.

Activating the SM malls to help their communities with sorted plastic waste, Trash to Cash incentivizes the exchange of recyclables to provide a venue for plastic recovery. Fifteen SM Plastic Waste Collection sites likewise serve as drop-off points for clean, empty, and dry plastics. In addition, the Solid Waste Action Program (SWAP) reverse vending machines at SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia enable the diversion of aluminum cans and polyethylene terephthalate bottles (PET), which are considered high-value plastic products.

The annual International Coastal Clean-up (ICC), supported by SM Cares, continues to empower volunteers to take part in this global effort for a record-breaking initiative. In 2024 alone, SM Cares helped mobilize 23,000 employees, students, and various communities that joined nationwide volunteer efforts to remove trash from the world’s beaches and waterways.

Volunteers participate in the International Coastal Clean-up (ICC) for a shared cause, with sign-ups increasing each year.

Hamilo Coast, known for its Marine Protected Areas and its commitment to living in harmony with nature, together with employees, guests, and residents, recovers plastic waste during beach clean-ups.

Aiming for a waste-free future

Reduction is always the best option. The SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has long since eliminated SUPs from all properties in support of the UNEP’s campaign to phase them out. Pico Sands Hotel was also one of the first hotels to sign with the World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF) in their Ayoko Na Sa Plastic Campaign in 2018.

In all of its hotel rooms, SMHCC has successfully removed single-use amenities including PET water bottles and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) shampoo and shower gel bottles. Bamboo or starch-based eco-friendly alternatives to plastic cutlery have been recommended since 2019 as part of the SMX Convention Centers’ requirements to promote sustainable events management practices. This is done in an effort to reduce trash output.

A larger impact is produced at a larger scale when people work together to lessen the effects of the plastic trash crisis. SM Prime wants to successfully divert a larger percentage of plastic waste away from landfills through improved waste management systems, efficient waste segregation techniques, and proactive community engagement.

“Our work is never done. There are new technologies, innovative solutions, and more avenues for collaboration to look forward to in making the EPR Act work for our communities,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. “But we all have a role to play–it is every individual’s responsibility to create a waste-free future.”

July 3, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Use your Metrobank credit card to make your ideal vacation a reality

Enjoy exclusive travel deals at The Metrobank Travel Fair – Book Online

If your 2025 vision board includes travel, get packing right away. The Metrobank Travel Fair – Book Online, which will take place from July 1 to July 15, is just a step away. Make your reservation online. With your Metrobank credit card as your best friend, here is your time to make those Instagram-worthy locations a reality.

Metrobank provides everything you need, whether you’re organizing the ideal fangirl weekend in Seoul, chasing sunsets in Boracay, or finally making reservations for that long-awaited Disneyland excursion in Hong Kong or Japan. Use your Metrobank credit card to get deals on everything related to airfare, hotels and accommodations, tours and activities, to other travel essentials.

These amazing deals come from Metrobank’s partner merchants, including  AirAsia Move, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, HongKong Express, Japan Airlines, Qantas Airways, Sunlight Air, United Airlines, Amorita Bohol, Club Wyndham, Crimson Alabang, JPark Cebu, Marco Polo Ortigas, Nay Palad, Solaire North, Solaire Paranaque, The Funny Lion, Agoda, AXA, Big Sky Nation, HongKong Tourism Board, Klook, and Korea Tourism Organization and many more, bringing a diverse selection to suit every traveler’s needs.

Enjoying exclusive discounts at The Metrobank Travel Fair – Book Online is simple and convenient. Just visit the websites or online platforms of your preferred participating airlines, hotels, or travel booking sites, choose your next adventure, input the promo code (if any) and pay with your Metrobank credit card. For the full list of merchants and offers, check out https://metrobank.com.ph/promos/the-metrobank-travel-fair-online-2025.

Get more out of every booking with your Metrobank credit card

At The Metrobank Travel Fair – Book Online, you’ll get more than just basic discounts. There are additional perks that come with each transaction:

  1. Enjoy up to PHP10,000 cashback on your flights with your Metrobank Visa credit card! Get PHP2,000 cashbackfor a minimum single-receipt spend of PHP25,000, or as much as PHP10,000 cashback for a minimum single-receipt spend of PHP100,000 at participating airline partners.
  2. Book your accommodation with your Metrobank Mastercard credit cardto get 5 eGCs  of a 1-pc. Chicken McDo meal with rice and a medium drink for every single-receipt transaction of at least PHP1,000 at participating merchants.
  3. Double the savings on rooms with Agoda! Enjoy 6% OFF on room accommodation when you book via agoda.com/metrobank. Plus, enjoy an extra PHP4,000 cashback for a min. single-receipt spend of PHP30,000.
  4. Book all travel packages atKlook and enjoy PHP2,000 off for a minimum single-receipt spend of PHP20,000 applicable sitewide, one per customer only.

Also, Metrobank Mastercard credit cardholders, can avail of the Buy Three (3), Take One (1) Free promo on tickets to your favorite HongKong Theme Park. Use the code: TMTFONHKPARK. Valid for one-time use only per cardholder, per account within the promo period. Limited redemptions apply.

To qualify for each reward, don’t forget to register your transaction through the One Giftaway Website at https://metrobankcard.mymcc.gift.

Flexible payment options with Balance Conversion

Pre-selected Metrobank credit cardholders can convert all their qualified transactions and available outstanding balance during the promo period into easy installments. Avail of the special Balance Conversion Offer at a low interest rate of 0.48% for 12 to 60 months, for a minimum single-receipt spend of PHP6,000. Qualified cardholders will receive a message about the balance conversion offer from Metrobank.

Whether you’re interested in luxury lodging, last-minute weekend getaways, or exciting itineraries, there’s something for every type of traveler. Therefore, use your Metrobank credit card to plan your next vacation at The Metrobank Travel Fair – Book Online.

Do you not yet have a Metrobank credit card? Get a Metrobank credit card by applying now! Apply online at https://apply.metrobank.com.ph/creditcard or in person at the Metrobank branch that is closest to you.

 

 

 

July 2, 2025 by
Automotive

Toyota supports Cavite’s end-of-life dismantling plant for insured vehicles

An excavator fitted with a hydraulic shear attachment dismantles an end-of-life vehicle at Standard Insurance’s ELV (End-of-Life Vehicle) dismantling facility

An excavator fitted with a hydraulic shear attachment dismantles an end-of-life vehicle at
Standard Insurance’s ELV (End-of-Life Vehicle) dismantling facility

Standard Insurance Co., Inc. is the second model End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) dismantling plant in the Philippines that is officially endorsed by Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) as part of the “Toyota Global 100 Dismantlers Project.”

With an average of 850 vehicles destroyed every year, Standard Insurance’s ELV dismantling activities largely deal with automobiles covered under its portfolio. The 8,840-square-meter facility, which is part of the company’s technical and training center in Naic, Cavite, can disassemble up to six (6) units every day.

Backed by an investment of PHP17.8 Million, this initiative represents a major private sector involvement in appropriate vehicle life cycle management and circular economy.

End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) dismantling facilities serve as a vital foundation for building a circular economy in the automotive industry. These facilities ensure that inoperable vehicles are processed responsibly, minimizing environmental impact by safely managing hazardous materials and maximizing resource recovery for reintroduction in the manufacturing cycle.

With two established dismantling facilities now operating in the country, the private sector beefs up the local capacity for responsible ELV management. This expansion not only supports local sustainability efforts, but also addresses the climate-related risks posed by ELVs globally.

Standard Insurance bolsters the Toyota Global 100 Dismantlers Project being the fifth on its list in the Southeast Asian region.

“We are very grateful to Standard Insurance for its voluntary resolve, making Toyota customers also feel assured with a proper place for ELVs to go,” said TMP president Masando Hashimoto.

“Our collective efforts are a clear testament to our long-term commitment to carbon neutrality and ‘Establishing a Recycling-based Society and Systems’ under the global Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050,” Hashimoto added.

The goal of the global Toyota Global 100 Dismantlers Project is to set up appropriate ELV dismantling operations in several key global locations. By encouraging appropriate disposal and recycling methods, Toyota hopes to address major environmental issues including pollution and resource depletion through this network.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto (right) hands over the plaque and certificate of endorsement to Standard Insurance Group Chairman Ernesto Echauz (center) and Standard Insurance-Technical Training Center Corporate Executive Officer and General Manager Joselito Lazaga.

Following En Tsumugi ELV Dismantler Corporation, the first ELV dismantle factory Toyota approved in September 2024 in Mexico, Pampanga, Standard Insurance has been a partner in TMP’s “Toyota Insure” program from 2021.

 

 

 

 

July 2, 2025 by
Food, Travel

A New Era of Asian Flavors with a Twist: THE FIRST IN PAMPANGA

If there is one thing that unites Asian culture, it is the way that food is used to maintain our history and customs. Asian dishes are genuinely created to be outstanding, from the meticulous procurement of ingredients to the inventiveness and creativity in preparation.

This is maintained by SM Supermalls, which brings top-notch Taiwanese, Japanese, and Thai cuisine to Pampanga, one of the culinary hubs of the Philippines. At SM City Clark and SM City Pampanga, Ninepot, The Matcha Tokyo, and Purple Rice all establish themselves as must-try locations with the same sense of richness and attention to quality!

Ninepot—Quality Taiwanese Hot Pot Experience

With the growing popularity of East Asian hot pot restaurants, Ninepot—its name reflecting the Taiwanese cultural belief that the number nine brings good fortune—sets itself apart by putting traditional Taiwanese flavors in the spotlight at the Tech Hub 2 of SM City Clark.

Unlike many hot pot restaurants that focus on unlimited servings, Ninepot prioritizes quality by offering carefully curated ingredients in each customizable set meal. Following a six-step process, Ninepot creates a well-rounded dining experience that highlights the richness of Taiwanese cuisine.

Each order includes a choice of protein, sides, broth, and vegetables, complemented by a dessert and a weekly special drink—completing a satisfying dining experience.

But what truly makes Ninepot stand out is its flavorful selection of soup bases, ranging from classic Taiwanese savory specials to hot and spicy picks. Among these are the signature Taiwan Stone Hot Pot, the aromatic Sesame Oil Hot Pot, the refreshingly sweet Dashi Broth Hot Pot, and the delectably spicy Szechuan Hot Pot.

The Matcha Tokyo—Haven for Premium-Grade Matcha

Matcha-inspired drinks and desserts are popping up left and right. However, despite the growing accessibility, matcha has proved to be a difficult flavor to handle—especially since matcha lovers are even more difficult to please!

But when it comes to perfecting that earthy, rich, and refined flavor, no one does it better than The Matcha Tokyo with its authentic, premium-grade selections at the Ground Level of SM City Clark.

Highlighting 100% organic matcha specials, The Matcha Tokyo is committed to promoting health and sustainability by bringing Japan’s finest matcha for daily and casual consumption.

For starters, their definite must-tries include the #1 best-selling Organic Matcha Latte—popular across all The Matcha Tokyo branches worldwide—and the Philippine-exclusive Ube Matcha Latte, which features a delightful blend of their high-quality matcha and the iconic sweet taste of purple yam (ube).

From a wide variety of matcha-infused beverages and pastries to chocolates, snacks, and conveniently available pure matcha powder—everything you can imagine to satisfy your matcha obsession is possible with The Matcha Tokyo.

Purple Rice—Thai Flavors with an Innovative Twist

Nothing is more delicious than sustainably crafted meals made rich with their culture of origin. This is exactly what Purple Rice brings to the table—introducing Thai flavors cooked through future-forward approaches to food at the Ground Level of SM City Pampanga.

Rooted in stories of heritage, environmentally conscious agricultural practices, and ultimately, a deep love and respect for Thai cuisine, Purple Rice offers a variety of creative Thai flavors fused with touches of Filipino warmth and food traditions.

Dedicated to serving authentic Thai cuisine with signature innovative twists, the uniquely colored Purple Rice takes center stage—often paired with popular Thai dishes and set against an inviting interior that enhances the experience.

Their menu features a variety of dishes, including soups like Tom Yum Talay, salads such as Purple Yam Woon Sen, and mains like Khao Soi and Pad Thai, with their best-selling meals including the Red Angus Beef Curry and Thai Halo-Halo, among other noteworthy selections.

Allow yourself to explore flavors that greatly satisfy your Kapampangan taste buds and visit Ninepot at Tech Hub 2 and The Matcha Tokyo at the Ground Level of SM City Clark, as well as Purple Rice at the Ground Level of SM City Pampanga.”

SM Supermalls guarantees that you get the best of many cuisines, whether you consider yourself a food connoisseur or a casual food enthusiast. They serve flavors that are tailored to our own preferences and cultures while introducing culinary innovations that combine tried-and-true methods with novel experiences.

At SM Supermalls, there’s always more to take pleasure in and share! For additional first-to-market brands and exclusive dining experiences, go to www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

 

 

 

July 2, 2025 by