Alsons Dev, in partnership with Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. (BAFI) and the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc. (CLAFI), brings The Mind Rover to Avia Estate, giving public school students in Sarangani an immersive, hands-on science learning experience.
The Mind Rover was brought to Avia Estate, Alsons Development and Investment Corporation’s (Alsons Dev) 121-hectare township in Alabel, Sarangani, on February 25, 2025, in collaboration with Bonifacio Art Foundation, Inc. (BAFI), the group behind The Mind Museum. This program provides public school kids with free entry to the internationally acclaimed, multi-awarded science museum experience.
About 200 students from IP-integrated schools (IS) in the Sarangani Province, including Datal Basak IS and Lebe IS in Maasim; Malandag Central Elementary School, Pulatana IS, and Malungon National High School in Malungon; Policarpo H. Millona Central Integrated School and Lun Padidu National High School in Malapatan; and Paraiso IS and Sofan IS in Alabel, were welcomed by the Avia Estate leg through the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation (CLAFI), the Alcantara Group’s corporate social responsibility arm.
During their visit, the students explored interactive exhibits in the Mind Rover representing The Mind Museum’s five unique galleries: Atom, Life, Earth, Universe, and Technology. They also enjoyed special screenings of Mind S-Cool TV, a family-friendly show that makes science and the arts fun and engaging.
To make the most of their learning experience, the students also toured the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex, home to a Fire Substation, Community Police Assistance Center, and Emergency Operations Center built and donated by Alsons Dev to the Alabel LGU. While waiting, the students enjoyed reading CLAFI’s Flalok Big Books, a collection of illustrated folklore of the Blaan Indigenous Peoples in Sarangani Province and General Santos. These books preserve traditional Blaan stories, originally passed down orally, by presenting them in written and illustrated forms that reflect Blaan culture.
By promoting education as the cornerstone of community development and increasing access to transformative learning opportunities, Alsons Dev reaffirmed the company’s dedication to empowering Sarangani communities.
With assistance from the Malungon, Malapatan, and Alabel LGUs, Sarangani Energy Corporation, Department of Education – Sarangani Division, and NutriAsia, BAFI and 2Go, in collaboration with local partners Alsons Dev and CLAFI, made the Mind Rover Avia Estate leg, the first of three stops in the SOX Region, possible.
[From L to R:] Eastern Communications’ (EC) AVP and Head of Marketing & Customer Experience Jed Estanislao, EC Product Manager Edwin De Jesus, EC CAN Planning & Engineering Head Rachelle Roque, EC Brand Communications Head Hannah Lazatin, and Contributing Editor of Asian Business Review, Simon Hyatt.
The Philippines’ online economy grew at the quickest rate among six Southeast Asian countries in 2024, according to the most recent e-Conomy SEA report by Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company. The nation’s digital economy grew by 20%, with its gross merchandise value (GMV) increasing from $26 billion in 2023 to $31 billion in 2024, mostly due to the growing e-commerce industry.
Leading telecoms and managed ICT services provider Eastern Communications emphasizes its impressive performance over the past 12 months and is prepared to enable businesses with state-of-the-art ICT solutions and its strong, creative network architecture as the need for digitalization increases.
A Year of Growth and Recognition
[From L to R:] Eastern Communications’ (EC) Brand Communications Head Hannah Lazatin, EC Product Manager Edwin De Jesus, EC AVP and Head of Marketing & Customer Experience Jed Estanislao, and EC CAN Planning & Engineering Head Rachelle Roque
Eastern Communications has experienced remarkable business growth and resilience over the past decade. In 2024, Eastern increased its revenue by 8.4%, marking its competitive presence in the telco industry. The company has fueled its success by continuously striving for innovation, operational sustainability, and customer-centric solutions.
With a growing B2B market share, Eastern Communications has been able to make its innovative ICT solutions more widely accessible. This expansion has significantly impacted offerings like Eastern Cloud, a customizable public cloud platform powered by CloudSigma. Designed for flexibility, Eastern Cloud allows businesses to purchase only the computing resources they need, without being locked into fixed server sizes, offering greater control, cost efficiency, and scalability.
It was recently named the Cloud Initiative of the Year – Philippines at the Asian Telecom Awards 2025, highlighting Eastern’s effort in redefining cloud computing in the Philippines. More than just a business success story, Eastern Cloud has also helped drive digital transformation across industries in the Philippines by enabling businesses to reduce IT infrastructure costs by up to 30%.
Further demonstrating its infrastructure excellence, Eastern Communications also received the Infrastructure Initiative of the Year – Philippines award for its participation in the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN),a joint venture between Eastern Communications, Globe Group, and InfiniVAN, designed to fortify the country’s communication infrastructure.
Addressing the vulnerabilities of traditional networks, the PDSCN Express Route strategically ensures that at least 80% of cables are laid underwater, with less than 20% inland, significantly reducing the risks of network disruptions caused by cable cuts. Through this innovative approach, Eastern Communications delivers enhanced bandwidth and network resilience, empowering Filipinos—especially those in disaster-prone areas—with stronger, more reliable connectivity.
For Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications, this recognition marks an exciting start to the year. “We are truly grateful for these global recognitions. They highlight our continuous mission to drive digital transformation across the Philippines. They fuel our passion to push boundaries, to empower businesses with resilient connectivity and future-ready solutions, and to champion ICT education and accessibility for all Filipinos,” she said
Expanding Reach and Elevating its Heart of Service
Eastern Communications’ management committee leads the pack through strategic growth in 2025
Eastern Communications is committed to expanding its network to more business hubs across the country. In 2025, the company will extend its services to key cities including: Cotabato City, in BARMM, General Santos City in South Cotabato, and Dipolog City in Zamboanga del Norte.
“Our continuous expansion across the country is more than just growing our footprint, but pushing for a digital-ready Philippines and driving economic progress. With the rising demand for digital solutions, we aim to bring our world-class connectivity to rising business centers across the country, strategically improving our network to provide world-class connectivity to Filipinos,” said Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.
Strengthening Security and Connectivity with DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS
Eastern Communications enhances nationwide infrastructure through its submarine cable laying project.
As cyberthreats become more sophisticated, Eastern Communications continues to invest in next-level security solutions. One of its latest offerings, DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS (Internet Direct Service), provides a premium, dedicated, high-speed internet solution designed to meet the demands of modern businesses.
DDoS-Protected Eastern IDS uses fiber-powered leased line technology, coupled with robust DDoS (Distributed denial of service) protection, ensuring reliable 24/7 connectivity with speeds of up to 10 GBPS, symmetrical upload and download speeds, and resilient access to global internet backbones. This cutting-edge solution enhances workforce productivity while safeguarding businesses against cyber disruptions.
As Eastern Communications looks ahead, it remains dedicated to being more than just a telco and ICT provider—it aims to be a trusted managed services partner of choice for businesses. Eastern continues to highlight its Heart of Service, delivering personalized solutions that drive business success. In 2024, the company’s Customer Satisfaction Score rose to an above-industry standard of 96.1%, demonstrating its dedication to customer experience excellence.
The company’s 2025 campaign, “Exceeding Expectations,” was inspired by its Heart of Service and intends to use Eastern’s high-tech and high-touch solutions to assist businesses surpass their objectives and improve their own customer experience.
Please visit www.eastern.com.ph to find out more about Eastern Communications.
Making saving easier, rewarding, and aligned with the Filipino consumers’ financial aspirations. Monj Del Rosario, Metrobank’s Consumer Business Head, reinforces the bank’s commitment to enabling Filipinos to unlock their life goals with offers that address their needs.
Let’s face it, with your daily bills stacking up, your concerns about unforeseen emergency expenses, and the general need for the proper savings habit, saving money can frequently feel overwhelming.
And you’re not the only one. According to data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), family spending is increasing while saving rates are down. From 29% in the third quarter of 2024 to 25.6% in the final quarter, the percentage of households with savings decreased. In the meantime, household expenditure has been rising for the upcoming quarter, especially when it comes to costs for dining out, clothes, and food. Life throws you curveballs, your costs go up, and all of a sudden your savings objectives seem farther away than ever. This is a frequent struggle.
At a recent event, Metrobank talked about the difficulties that can arise when saving money and how you can have a chance to change this by making saving a conscious habit and utilizing valuable deals like its newly announced Triple Bonus promotion. As we often find ourselves easily swayed into purchasing various things, I must admit that I am guilty of this. That’s why I truly appreciate the valuable insights Metrobank provides on effectively managing finances. They not only share essential data on saving rates and financial trends but also equip us with deeper knowledge about financial management and exclusive offers.
According to the bank, one simple but effective way to start saving money intentionally is through goal-based saving which entails having separate accounts for specific financial goals – a modern take on the classic envelope method. By having dedicated savings accounts for your goals, you create a clear boundary between what’s meant for spending on your essentials and what’s meant for saving for your dreams.
Say no to #FOMO and yes to #SWOMO. Cris Concepcion, Institutional Brand Marketing Head, introduces the concept of “saving without missing out” (SWOMO) – reiterating that saving money shouldn’t feel like a sacrifice. Filipino savers should be able to set aside funds for their dreams, big and small, on top of working towards financial security.
The bank also highlighted that saving shouldn’t feel like a sacrifice. While it’s important to save money to prepare for emergencies or retirement, Metrobank encourages savers like you to Save Without Missing Out or to #SWOMO. This entails setting aside money to fund your dreams, whether that’s a solo backpacking trip to Japan, a dream destination wedding, or buying a comfortable home. This helps strike a balance between striving to be financially secure and living the life you’ve aways dreamed of.
Reach your life goals with Metrobank. Ina Pilares, Head of Retail Deposits and Payments, discusses how Metrobank’s Triple Bonus Promo, which runs from today until April 30, 2025, provides meaningful offers that help empower Filipinos to reach their savings goals.
Saving for these goals is made even more rewarding with Metrobank’s Triple Bonus Promo, that offers meaningful perks to help you reach your financial goals. After all, building your savings is the best gift you can give to your future self. When you open your first Metrobank savings or checking account from now until April 30, 2025, you get a triple bonus that will help set you up on your savings journey:
PHP 1,500 Cash Gift: Consider this a head start, a boost to your savings, or a well-deserved reward for taking that first step in building your goals fund. Enjoy a cash gift equivalent to a 3% return on your savings, when you deposit and maintain PHP 50,000 in your account, for 6 consecutive months.
Rebates on InstaPay Fees for a year: Make your everyday transactions lighter on your wallet with up to 10 waived InstaPay fees per month, for 12 months. Just maintain at least PHP50,000 in your account monthly for a year to enjoy this exclusive benefit. This will definitely put more money back into your pocket – because every peso counts, especially for your everyday expenses.
AXA Personal Accident Insurance: Life happens, and unexpected expenses can derail your plans and deplete your savings. With this insurance coverage, you can focus on your goals, knowing that you have a safety net for unexpected events in your life. Keep at least PHP50,000 in your account every month for a year to enjoy this added protection.
Save for the future you dream of. Influencers and friends from the media pose with their creative vision-to-action boards– as they commit to saving more intentionally for their life goals with the help of Metrobank.
With these rewards, Metrobank aims to encourage more people to be able to save money, and ultimately, start building the financial habits that will allow you to reach your life goals. To enjoy these offers, head to your nearest Metrobank branch and open your first Metrobank account.
As you save for your life goals in 2025, give yourself a threefold bonus.
Money-festing Friends from the media excitedly create colorful vision boards for their life goals, with Metrobank’s Triple Bonus promo being the enabler of their dreams.
Visit the Metrobank location that is closest to you or visit https://metrobank.com.ph to find out more.
Hello Glow’s sunscreen bar at Waterbomb Manila 2025
With a thrilling blend of music, water-themed entertainment, and skincare fun, Waterbomb Manila 2025 makes a spectacular premiere at the Quirino Grandstand! The inaugural Waterbomb festival in the Philippines showcased a thrilling blend of K-pop, hip-hop, and EDM acts, all while keeping attendees shielded from the sun with the help of Hello Glow’s Sunscreen Bar!
Hello Glow Keeps the Crowd Sun-Safe
By installing a Sunscreen Bar at Waterbomb Manila 2025, Hello Glow created a stir and made sure that festival goers could enjoy themselves while protecting their skin. Hello Glow’s sunscreen testers let festival goers to make their own sunscreen charms and reapply SPF, making it the ideal summertime necessity for a day filled with music and nonstop water fights. Hello Glow, a skincare company with Korean influences, was a perfect partner in creating an amazing first Waterbomb Manila!
Hello Glow’s Sun Care Stick with SPF 60+
Day 1 Highlights
The festival kicked off with high-energy performances from a star-studded lineup. EXO’s Chanyeol electrified the stage, while Jessi made her triumphant return with a powerful set. Sunmi and Hyolyn wowed the crowd with their stunning vocals and dynamic dance performances. Hip-hop and R&B fans enjoyed sets from Gray, BamBam, and reggae duo Skull & HAHA. Representing the local scene, P-pop groups Bilib and ZÉLA proudly showcased Filipino talent.
Day 2 Highlights
The excitement continued on the second day with Kang Daniel, whose smooth vocals and choreography captivated fans. Hyolyn returned for another high-energy set, while Gray, Oh My Girl, VIVIZ, and NU’EST’s Baekho delivered unforgettable performances. Water fights and synchronized water shows kept the crowd refreshed throughout the festivities.
The Ultimate Festival Experience
With its combination of live performances, interactive water activities, and eye-catching visual effects, Waterbomb Manila 2025 was more than just a music event. Attendees were able to fully enjoy the action without worrying about sun damage because Hello Glow made sure everyone’s skin remained sun-safe.
Due to Hello Glow’s involvement, the event was not only more enjoyable but also more skincare-friendly! It’s safe to assume that SPF will continue to be essential for the best possible festival experience, and fans are already anticipating the next Waterbomb Manila.
The BPI #BestLifeRun 2025 is anticipated to attract 6,000 runners.(Photo from BPI #BestLifeRun last June 9, 2024)
On March 1, 2025, registration for the highly anticipated BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race 2025 will formally open!
This year’s marathon, the nation’s first and only corporate-focused running event, is expected to be bigger and better, bringing together professionals from different industries in the goal of corporate wellness, fitness, and friendship.
As it enters its third year, the BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race furthers the collective commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being while promoting workplace health and wellness. What began as a way for BPI employees to unite has grown into a multi-company fitness movement that now includes teams from huge firms and run clubs of all sizes as well as micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs).
Run for a cause, race for wellness
Happening on June 8, 2025, at Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City, the BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race will feature four race categories—3KM, 5KM, 10KM, and 21KM—ensuring that runners of all fitness levels can participate. It expects to draw 6,000 participants, consisting of a mix of employees from various companies.
Companies and organizations can register teams with a minimum of four members, competing not just for speed, but for the title of the fastest, fittest, and most competitive organization.
“At BPI, we believe that a thriving workforce starts with a focus on wellness and well-being. The #BestLifeRun is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and the collective pursuit of a healthier lifestyle,” said Gina Eala, BPI Chief Human Resources Officer.
Beyond the excitement of competition, the BPI Foundation’s partner communities around the country will benefit from this year’s race’s net revenues.
“We extend an invitation to businesses and organizations to participate in this significant endeavor, where we enhance our business communities and significantly improve the lives of others,” Eala continued.
Special registration perks!
Early bird registrants from March 1 to 15, 2025, can enjoy discounted rates, with registration fees starting at P800 for 3KM; P1,000 for 5KM; P1,200 for 10KM; and P1,600 for 21KM.
Participants can register by visiting @bpibestliferun on Instagram, BPI’s official Facebook page, or RUNRIO’s social media pages. BPI corporate clients are encouraged to coordinate with their relationship managers for team registration.
More than a race – a celebration of corporate teamwork!
The excitement doesn’t stop at the finish line! Runners can enjoy post-race activities in the race village, connect with peers, and explore booths from event sponsors. Special awards await top-performing corporate teams, competitive individuals, and standout run clubs.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary race for health, camaraderie, and purpose. Gather your colleagues, lace up your running shoes, and be part of the BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race 2025!
For more information, follow @bpibestliferun on Instagram.
The nation’s first e-commerce site, Lazada, is starting March with premium products at cheaper prices during its 3.3 Pasabog Sale, which runs from March 2 at 8 PM to March 7. Take advantage of up to 90% OFF LazFlash offers, 100% free shipping with no minimum buy, and up to P2000 Lazada coupons when you switch to the better 3.3 sale!
Customers can use Lazada’s array of GenAI services, such as AI Lazzie—Southeast Asia’s first eCommerce chatbot—for a more smart and tailored buying experience. Customers’ decision-making process is streamlined by this application, which offers virtual try-ons, image-based searches, customized recommendations, product review summaries, and a skin analyzer.
In order to provide more flexibility and satisfaction, Lazada has enhanced its return and refund policy. It now offers 30-day free returns, which is twice the industry standard, as well as a simple refund procedure with more categories for Change of Mind returns.
Shop Lazada’s 3.3 Pasabog Sale from March 2 at 8 PM to March 7 and follow Lazada Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for additional daily pasabog offers.
AICI President Olen Juarez-Lim with AICI Punta Cana 2023 attendees
The AICI Global Conference 2025, which will take place in Manila from April 24 to 27, will bring together image consultants from around the world to discuss issues ranging from fashion choices and the power of communication to etiquette and protocol to personal image, visual branding and industry strength, networking and the necessity of presence, and more.
Olen Juarez-Lim
The first Asian president of the 35-year-old Association of Image Consultants International (AICI), Ms. Olen Juarez-Lim, founder and president of OJL Consulting Group, is hosting the 2025 global conference of the international professional association.
The largest and most prominent association of image consultants in the world is called AICI.
Members from 38 AICI chapters across 60 countries will be present at the event. The worldwide conference will take place in Asia, namely in the Philippines, for the first time in AICI’s history.
It will take place from April 24 to 27 at the Makati Shangri-La Manila, where delegates and conference participants will experience Philippine culture and fashion and visit tourist destinations.
“Image consultants from the USA, Latin America, China, Malaysia, India, Australia, the UK, and other regions will fly here to exchange ideas, share success stories, push the boundaries of image consulting, and strengthen global collaborations. The conference aims to propel our profession to new heights as we seek effective strategies to help our clients succeed in this challenging, constantly changing marketplace,” Ms. Juarez-Lim said.
The theme of the 2025 conference is “Elevating Excellence: Breakthrough Strategies for Image Consulting Mastery”. “It is a call to action for image consultants to hone their craft and find ways to push the boundaries of innovation,” she added.
AICI Punta Cana 2023
Image consultancy has been acknowledged as an important profession in the modern world. Celebrities, athletes, politicians, business leaders, and brands recognize the value of managing how markets and audiences perceive them.
“The AICI Global Conference offers an outstanding networking experience for ongoing professional development. The Manila conference will foster meaningful exchanges regarding trends, technology, and innovative practices in image consulting. This 2025 edition represents the most dynamic array of educational opportunities in our organization’s history, featuring keynotes and special guests alongside the full conference experience,” said Rosario Diz of Argentina, vice president of the global conference.
“AICI aims to provide an immersive experience that highlights Filipino hospitality, cuisine and the arts. This unique backdrop provides an excellent opportunity for attendees to experience the warmth and friendliness of the Filipino people, making the conference both educational and culturally entertaining. We are proud and delighted to welcome everyone to our country and showcase our rich culture,” Ms. Juarez-Lim said.
🌸✨ Vibrant colors, joyful smiles, and cultural pride! 🎉 The Panagbenga 2025 celebration comes alive with stunning performances, festive outfits, and creative floral displays. #ColorsInBloomAtSM 🌺🌻
A vibrant display of Baguio’s arts and culture, this year’s Panagbenga has been nothing short of spectacular.
One striking piece is a dynamic lightning bolt, expertly crafted from brilliant yellow and blue tile fragments. This work honors Baguio photographer and artist Kidlat de Guia, who passed away in Madrid, Spain.
An onlooker admires the captivating pieces at The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit, a key highlight of the event that brings the spirit of the Cordilleras to life.
The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit, a major event feature, uses its artistic talent to capture the essence of the Cordilleras. Works by Kabunyan de Guia, Guiller Lagac, and Oliver Olivete—collectively referred to as The Mighty Bhutens—are on exhibit. Their works, which draw inspiration from National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, exhibit an impromptu, lighthearted style that honors the area’s rich cultural legacy.
Savor the flavors of Panagbenga 2025 at the Food Truck Fest! 🍔🌮 A must-visit for foodies, this vibrant gathering showcases mouthwatering delights from local MSMEs, bringing together great food, good vibes, and a feast for the senses! 🌟🚚 #Panagbenga2025
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at the Food & Crafts Fair! From artisanal accessories to local delicacies, it’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind pasalubong.
The Food and Crafts Fair, running from February 17 – March 03, features local MSMEs presenting a variety of products, including souvenirs, foods, and delicacies. The Food Truck Fest at The Drive offers a unique mix of tastes and flavors from local culinary entrepreneurs.
Painting Panagbenga memories together! Families join in the colorful fun at Family Art Day, celebrating the festival’s vibrant spirit through creativity and laughter. #Panagbenga2025 #ColorsInBloomAtSM
The Painting Competition at Panagbenga 2025 brings artists together to capture the beauty and spirit of the festival on canvas.
The Panagbenga Festival at the mall was bursting with creativity as participants of all ages embraced the artistic spirit! From vibrant paintings to hands-on family fun, the art activities brought inspiration and color to the celebration. 🎨✨
The Arts and Crafts activity sparks creativity among students from various schools as they repurposed past Panagbenga decors into sustainable art. Families enjoyed bonding at Family Art Day, while friends found inspiration from the scenic Sky Terrace view during the Painting Competition.
Bringing the Panagbenga 2025 festival spirit to life, cultural performers from various local groups fill the mall with energy, rhythm, and tradition—celebrating the heritage of the Cordilleras in a vibrant display of music and dance.
The shoppers enjoy the Panagbenga spirit and festive atmosphere enriched by music and cultural performances from groups such as Day Eng Cultural Group, University of Baguio BIBAK Ubbun Kaafuan, Paggawisan Tako Am-In from the University of the Philippines-Baguio and Gawis Culture and Arts Ensemble.
A tail-wagging good time! Pawstival brings together pet lovers and their furry friends for a day filled with fun, games, and adorable moments.
Fur-parents and their beloved companions struts their super style in a fun-filled costume contest. The Pet Pawstival kicked off with a paw-some day of bonding and laughter, creating unforgettable memories for both pets and their devoted owners.
Guided by skilled artisans, participants discover the beauty of traditional weaving—one thread at a time.
The weaving workshop, led by master weaver Cathy Ekid from Bontoc, shares her expertise in backstrap weaving. With the assistance of the Pasakalye Group of Artists, mall-goers try their hand at this traditional craft, contributing to the preservation of the art of weaving.
Art that speaks to the soul—visitors find inspiration and meaning in every masterpiece at ‘Hiraya: Dreams in Bloom.
Hiraya: Dreams in Bloom showcased a heartfelt collection of artworks that captured dreams and aspirations through the enchanting beauty of flowers. Featuring over 60 pieces from 48 artists, the exhibit highlighted the incredible talent of prominent Pasakalye artists, blending tradition and creativity in a captivating visual storytelling.
From loom to runway—celebrating the craftsmanship of our local weavers in the Blooming Weaves fashion show and Exhibit.
Blooming Weaves celebrated Cordillera’s rich weaving traditions through a stunning fashion show and exhibit. Featuring the Fashion Designers Alliance Cordillera, the event blended traditional fabrics with modern, eco-conscious designs. Visitors admired intricate handwoven masterpieces, showcasing techniques like backstrap weaving, pedal loom weaving, and ikat dyeing—each a testament to indigenous artistry.
A feast for the senses! Fireworks, glowing lights, and dreamy floral décor come together to create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Spectacular fireworks, vibrant floral displays featuring a dynamic blend of pastel floral designs, and striking gobo and light installations throughout the mall further enhanced the Panagbenga celebrations.
A masterpiece of artistry and agriculture! This year’s float parade was a spectacular tribute to the beauty of harvest season.
Residents and tourists flocked to see the much-anticipated Grand Float Parade on February 23. The crowd was mesmerized by the 44 exquisitely painted floats.
With a gorgeous design modeled after a cornucopia of abundant harvests, SM City Baguio’s non-competing entry as a hall-of-famer brought this year’s festival theme, “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries,” to life.
SM City Bataan and its 4,060-piece solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have a peak capacity of 2,376,000 kW
There has never been a greater pressing demand for renewable energy as the globe struggles with diminishing resources. Since malls use a lot of energy, they have a special chance to take the lead in creating a more sustainable and greener future by implementing renewable energy solutions that can drastically lessen their environmental effect.
Recognizing this, SM has been implementing strategies to reduce its carbon impact and increasing its renewable energy efforts steadily. Adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which directly convert sunlight into electricity, is one such alternative. PV systems offer clean, sustainable energy. As a result, SM is able to lessen its dependency on fossil fuels, cut energy expenses, and promote environmental sustainability.
Expanding solar power across SM malls
As of February 2025, SM is nearing full operations for the solar PV systems installed in 45 of its properties across the country, with more slated for retrofitting soon.
SM’s use of solar PV systems is just one of the many ways the company has been taking a more sustainable approach to energy use while supporting the country in achieving its sustainability goals. Its efforts continue to be recognized by reputable institutions both locally and internationally.
Industry recognition for SM’s sustainability efforts
For instance, SM’s flagship mall, SM Mall of Asia, was recognized at the 2024 Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards and Sustainable Energy Awards organized by the Department of Energy (DOE). It won the Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution for its solar PV system, which is capable of generating 2.7-megawatts (MW) of peak energy—enough to power 1,790 households for an entire year.
Meanwhile, SM City Butuan was recognized under the New and Existing Building category at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Energy Awards 2024 Best Practices Competition for Energy-Efficient Buildings. Endorsed by the DOE to represent the Philippines, the mall was honored for advancing energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) innovations in its design and operations.
Supporting the DOE’s Renewable Energy Roadmap
Alongside its efforts to integrate renewable energy sources into its operations, SM is also committed to supporting the DOE in achieving its targets under the Renewable Energy Roadmap 2017-2040, particularly its goal to increase the country’s renewable energy installed capacity to at least 20,000 MW by 2040.
SM City Tanza is one of the 45 SM malls with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, numbering 2,286 units, which will produce 1,257.30 kW peak solar power.
Public-Private Partnerships for a sustainable future
SM collaborates with partner solar PV system providers under the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Distributed Energy Resources program. These service contracts define the conditions of the partnership, project timelines, and the assigned malls for each provider, aligning with SM’s adoption of renewable energy.
“At SM, sustainability is a commitment. Our growing solar portfolio demonstrates our dedication to a greener future for the Philippines, in partnership with the DOE and our valued partners,” shared SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group Engr. Liza Silerio.
“Together, we’re not just generating cost savings – we’re shaping a more sustainable future by supporting long-term environmental goals of our partners while contributing to the Philippines’ green transition,” said Green Heat Corporation Director Glenn Tong. Green Heat is one of SM’s solar PV system providers.
SM City Butuan with its solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.
A model for sustainable development
Beyond its environmental and economic benefits, SM’s implementation of solar PV systems serves as a progressive model for public-private partnerships (PPPs). By collaborating with the DOE, SM gains access to technical expertise and financial incentives while helping the country meet its sustainability goals. This approach promotes innovation, creates jobs, and sets a precedent for other commercial establishments to follow.
DOE’s support for sustainable energy development
“The DOE has implemented sustainable energy development strategies and institutionalized national and local capabilities, and we are heartened by the strong support we have received from both the private and public sectors,” said DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara in her opening address at the Sustainable Energy Awards.
Discover unique finds and support local businesses at the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan, happening at SM City Baguio from February 19-25, 2025.
SM City Baguio will host the eagerly awaited second phase of the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan from February 19–25, 2025, bringing together a vibrant shopping experience and a diverse range of MSMEs and community people. Viyline and SM’s partnership seeks to support local companies and encourage community involvement, and the event has a chance to transform MSMEs in the area.
Viy Cortez, a well-known influencer and wife of well-known YouTuber CONG TV, will be a highlight of the event. She will attend the opening ceremony and provide enthusiasm and celebrity power to the occasion. Viy Cortez is well-known for her large online following and impact. Her participation in this project highlights how important the MSME Caravan is as a chance to improve the community.
A variety of delicious food products, like bottled Pork Sisig Barbecue, are available at the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan, which travels to SM Supermalls nationwide.
The Viyline MSME Caravan is more than just a bazaar—it’s a collaborative effort to strengthen the local economy, support budding entrepreneurs, and celebrate the diversity and creativity of the MSME sector. By bringing together small business owners, influencers, and community members, this event nurtures deeper connections and encourages greater consumer engagement.
The Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan cultivates a thriving MSME ecosystem through collaboration, support, and a dynamic showcase of local talent. Photo from the Viyline Media Group.
The success of the first leg of the Viyline MSME Caravan, held at SM City Bataan last January 22 – 29, 2025, has set the stage for a thrilling second installment, and this collaboration with SM City Baguio promises to take things to the next level. With the support of influential figures like Viy Cortez, the event is bound to attract a wide audience, further solidifying the importance of MSMEs in promoting community growth.
The Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan’s triumphant first leg at SM City Bataan paves the way for an even more exciting continuation at SM City Baguio. Photo from the Viyline Media Group.
The caravan continues to SM City Dasmarinas from March 19-30, after its SM City Baguio stop (February 19-25, 2025). See the full schedule at www.smsupermalls.com.
Empowering MSME success at SM Supermalls
By offering premium retail locations and powerful promotions, SM Supermalls supports the expansion and sustainability of MSME’s. With the largest MSME community in the nation, SM provides comprehensive support from incubation to nationwide expansion, ensuring local companies prosper in a fiercely competitive environment.
