News

• Cardiology and Oncology Referral Enhancement (CORE) digital platform improves coordination across the Parañaque Healthcare Provider Network to support UHC implementation.
• Collaboration focuses on system strengthening and timely patient access through enhanced referral processes.

Novartis Healthcare Philippines has formed an official partnership with the Parañaque City Government to reinforce the city’s healthcare system and support the local rollout of Universal Health Care Act Philippines. The collaboration brings together public and private sector expertise to streamline how patients move across health facilities, aiming for more efficient and coordinated referral processes.

Through Resolution No. 2025-308, authority is granted to Edwin C. Olivares to sign a Memorandum of Agreement with Novartis for health programs aligned with UHC. Central to this partnership is the implementation of the Cardiology and Oncology Referral Enhancement (CORE) system—an electronic referral platform that links facilities within the Parañaque Healthcare Provider Network. By prioritizing cardiology and oncology, the initiative targets two of the country’s most prevalent non-communicable diseases—ischemic heart disease and cancer—which continue to place a heavy burden on Filipino patients and the overall healthcare system.

h Novartis for health programs and initiatives aligned with the UHC Act. A key component of the agreement is the rollout of the Cardiology and Oncology Referral Enhancement (CORE) system—an electronic referral (eReferral) platform that connects facilities within the Parañaque Healthcare Provider Network (HCPN). By focusing on cardiology and oncology, the initiative helps address two of the country’s leading non‑communicable diseases—ischemic heart disease and cancer—which continue to place a significant burden on Filipino patients and the health system.¹

The partnership is implemented in close coordination with Mayor Olivares; the Parañaque City Health Office; Dr. Darius J. Sebastian, Officer‑in‑Charge City Health Officer; Dr. Ruben Ver Bombeta, Partnership Focal; and City Councilor Maria Kristine G. Esplana, sponsor of the enabling resolution. This collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to co‑creating sustainable, system‑level solutions for improved health outcomes.

The need for stronger referral coordination

With the devolution of health services to local government units under the Local Government Code and the UHC Act, cities like Parañaque now play a critical role in ensuring that care is accessible, coordinated, and continuous. Administrative Order 2020-0019 further outlines the importance of building a mature Healthcare Provider Network where facilities are linked, services are coordinated, and patients are guided smoothly across levels of care.

However, gaps in referral coordination can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. CORE addresses this challenge by providing a digital platform that links health facilities within the Parañaque HCPN, allowing referrals to be tracked, managed, and acted on more efficiently.

By strengthening how facilities connect with one another, the system helps patients reach the appropriate level of care faster and supports the city’s progress toward a more integrated UHC implementation. It also supports ongoing efforts to improve care coordination across the city.

“A fully functional Health Care Provider Network (HCPN) relies on strong communication between facilities,” said Dr. Darius J. Sebastian, OIC–City Health Officer. “Through our partnership with Novartis, we are operationalizing this mandate by deploying a web-based referral system. This technology ensures seamless continuity of care as patients navigate from primary care providers to higher-level facilities.

Parañaque City is the first LGU to partner with Novartis on the CORE initiative. To support implementation, CORE training was conducted on December 2, equipping local health workers with the skills needed to use the system in their daily operations.

The rollout is supported by Thinking Machines, the technology partner for the initiative. Beyond the platform itself, the partnership places strong emphasis on capacity-building. This upskilling ensures that health workers are fully supported in adopting digital solutions that can improve service delivery over time.

Moving UHC forward at the local level

The initiative aligns with the Novartis access principles, which recognize that a medicine’s impact depends not only on availability but also on the strength of the systems responsible for delivering care. Guided by the Novartis Health System Strengthening (HSS) Framework, the partnership focuses on addressing delayed referrals—one of the most common barriers to timely and appropriate care for patients with high‑burden diseases.

“Improving access requires more than providing innovative medicines—it also means helping strengthen the systems that enable patients to receive timely care,” said Sushant Anand, Value and Access Head at Novartis. “Through CORE, we are working with Parañaque City to address real‑world gaps in referral pathways. This collaboration demonstrates how co‑creation can support health workers and ultimately help patients get the care they need, when they need it.”

Designed for scalability and long‑term sustainability, CORE positions the partnership as a model for UHC‑aligned public‑private collaboration—one built on co‑creation, capacity‑building, and system‑level impact.

Novartis and the Parañaque City Government reaffirm their joint commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare and enhancing local health systems. Through initiatives such as CORE, the partnership moves forward with concrete actions to ensure that Universal Health Care Act Philippines is effectively implemented at all levels.

 

Reference:

1. Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Leading causes of death in the Philippines, 2024 update. Inquirer.net; 2025. Available from: https://business.inquirer.net

Recognized as the Organization of the Year, SM Supermalls won 30 awards across diverse categories

SM Supermalls continues to set new standards in customer excellence after being named Organization of the Year at the 2026 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, one of the region’s leading programs honoring innovation in business.

This marks the second time SM Supermalls has received the distinguished recognition, accumulating a total of 52 award points across Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Awards. The accomplishment reflects the company’s ongoing dedication to delivering impactful, innovative, and customer-focused experiences across its most loved malls.

“On behalf of SM Supermalls in the Philippines and China, we would like to thank the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for this honor. This is a testament to how we continue to evolve and innovate to deliver a truly maxed-out experience for our customers,” said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President Joaquin L. San Agustin, who accepted the recognition.

“We dedicate this to the millions of our customers back home, as well as to our tenant partners and employees who make these experiences possible.”

Driving Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

SM Supermalls continues to embed sustainability into its core operations through impactful initiatives such as SM Green Movement, International Coastal Cleanup 2025, Powered by the Sun, and Save Water.

These programs highlight the company’s long-term commitment to environmental responsibility—encouraging everyday action while building greener, more resilient communities, especially in times of crisis.

Championing Social Good and Inclusive Communities

Beyond environmental efforts, purpose-driven initiatives remain at the heart of SM Supermalls’ mission. Programs like Mall for All, Empowering Communities, Empowering Together, and SM Job Fairs create meaningful opportunities for Filipinos, while Movies for the Blind ensures that mall experiences are inclusive and accessible to all.

Together, these initiatives reflect SM Supermalls’ role as a space where communities come together and where everyone can truly Gala To The Max.

Celebrating Local Arts, Culture, and Creativity

SM Supermalls continues to bring culture and creativity closer to communities through initiatives such as Mindanao Art, Philippine International Pyromusical Competition, Konnichiwa Japan, Animezing North, and Art from All.

These programs transform mall spaces into vibrant cultural destinations—where stories are shared, traditions are celebrated, and creativity thrives across your most-loved SM Supermalls.

Empowering Youth and Strengthening Family Connections

Creating spaces for young talents and families to grow remains a key focus. Initiatives like SM Super Spelling Bee, SM Little Stars, and Besties of Joy provide platforms that inspire learning, creativity, and connection.

Through these programs, SM Supermalls continues to nurture the next generation while strengthening family bonds—making every visit a chance to enjoy a maxed-out experience together.

Expanding Destinations and Elevating Experiences

SM Supermalls’ continuous growth is anchored in thoughtful, community-driven development. The recognition of SM City Laoag and SM City La Union’s Opening in 2025 highlights the company’s continued expansion across the country.

Meanwhile, initiatives such as SM City La Union’s Translating Local Identity into Purpose-led Brand Experience and its Mallseum showcase how each development reflects the unique identity and heritage of its locale.

From large-scale spectacles to everyday engagement, SM Supermalls continues to redefine the malling experience. Crowd-favorite activations such as SM Active Hub, Pride Pheerayde, and SM Mall of Asia Night of Lights bring communities together through dynamic and immersive events.

These experiences embody the brand’s commitment to creating moments that go beyond shopping—inviting everyone to Gala To The Max in every visit.

Extending Innovation Across SM China

Beyond the Philippines, SM Supermalls’ excellence is mirrored in its China portfolio through locally resonant, highly engaging campaigns. Initiatives such as SM City Zibo: Let’s Wave, SM City Tianjin: Three Color Sports 6.0, and SM City Yangzhou: Mango Vibes Only highlight the brand’s ability to create vibrant, lifestyle-driven experiences tailored to diverse communities.

Seasonal and cultural storytelling also took center stage with SM City Xiamen: Chinese New Year with Songxi Woodblock Prints and SM City Chengdu: The Frog Prince, blending tradition and creativity to deliver immersive mall experiences.

Meanwhile, SM City Jinjiang: Bean There, Beat That Stress! highlights creative, wellness-focused engagement, while SM Haicang: Grand Opening marks the ongoing expansion and widening presence of SM Supermalls in the region.

Together, these initiatives reinforce SM Supermalls’ position as a strong regional brand, consistently delivering meaningful, culturally relevant, and fully maximized experiences across different markets.

 

 

 

SM Supermalls, in collaboration with the City Government of Caloocan and key national government agencies, formally launched the Government Service Express (GSE) at SM City Caloocan on March 25, 2026. The GSE brings essential government services closer to the community through a convenient, people-centered hub located in their favorite SM Supermall.

The inauguration was led by Chris Martin D. Coquia, Regional Operations Head of SM, alongside representatives from partner agencies including the Caloocan City LGU, PNP, PRC, PhilHealth, SSS, and Pag-IBIG.

The GSE at SM City Caloocan marks the 18th Government Service Express in SM malls nationwide, reinforcing SM Supermalls’ commitment to transforming malls into community hubs that go beyond retail—spaces where everyday needs, essential services, and meaningful experiences come together.

Designed as a one-stop hub, the Government Service Express enables customers to conveniently complete government transactions within the mall environment—supporting parents processing family documents, jobseekers completing employment requirements, entrepreneurs and workers navigating essential services, and everyday citizens seeking efficient and reliable public service.

“As we open this new Government Service Express, we do so guided by our commitment of All For You—putting the needs of our customers and communities at the heart of everything we do,” said Coquia. “By making essential services more accessible and experiences more seamless, we help our customers truly maximize their experience every time they visit our malls.”

Beyond Convenience: Enabling Everyday Progress for Filipino Workers and Families

More than just accessibility, the Government Service Express delivers real, everyday impact—particularly for the working and middle-income segments who rely on efficient, reliable government services to move forward in life.

By bringing together agencies such as the Caloocan Business Permit and Licensing Office, BFP, PNP, PhilHealth, and PRC in one location, GSE allows individuals to:

• Process employment requirements and benefits without taking multiple days off work
• Complete business and professional requirements in a single trip

In select locations, GSEs also serve as access points for free services, including medical assistance and medicines through partner agencies—helping ease the financial burden of everyday needs while maintaining dignity and independence.

Functioning as a modern-day community service hub, GSE complements local government services by providing a more accessible, organized, and customer-friendly environment—especially for urban, working populations who value time, efficiency, and reliability.

Rather than being a space solely for aid, the Government Service Express empowers individuals to participate more actively in the economy—whether by securing employment, accessing benefits, or building their future through government-supported programs.

The launch underscores the strong impact of public-private collaboration in enhancing the accessibility and quality of services. By bringing government offices into the mall setting, SM Supermalls helps streamline processes, lower barriers, and provide more inclusive access to essential services in everyday life.

Through initiatives that directly address community needs, SM Supermalls continues to reinforce its position as the most loved mall—creating spaces that go beyond transactions and truly serve people and communities.

 

More than just a celebration of Filipino cuisine, the 2026 DTI National Food Fair served as a strong platform for entrepreneurship, innovation, and nation-building, as thousands of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) reached broader markets at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall from April 8–12.

Backed by the strong partnership between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and SM Supermalls, the five-day event transformed retail space into a high-impact platform where local businesses don’t just sell—they scale.

A Platform Built for Growth

Beyond exposure, the National Food Fair serves as a launchpad for scaling businesses—combining DTI’s development programs with SM Supermalls’ nationwide retail reach. “From a small coffee shop, we’ve grown into a manufacturing business, and platforms like the DTI National Food Fair at SM Megamall have helped accelerate that journey,” said King Del Rosario of Coffee and Mead Corporation. “The support, accessibility, and stronger sales show how SM provides MSMEs like us the right environment to grow.”

Connecting Regions to the Nation

For regional entrepreneurs, access to national markets is often the biggest barrier—one that the National Food Fair helps break. “Through DTI trade fairs at SM Supermalls, we were able to bring our products from Bicol to a national market,” shared Larry Lee Ong of Orange Country Enterprises. “It opened doors to major buyers and long-term partnerships, helping us scale and grow—proving how SM can transform regional businesses into national brands.” By bridging regional producers to urban consumers, SM enables MSMEs to move from local relevance to national competitiveness.

From Demand to Expansion

At the heart of the fair is a simple but powerful outcome: real demand. “Demand for our product is already higher than supply, and having a booth at the DTI National Food Fair in SM Megamall gives us the right mix of customers and exposure to sustain that growth,” said Alvin Samson of Easter Joy Rabbit Ventures. “Every time we’re in SM, we sell out—proving the strength of the platform in helping us grow faster and reach new markets.” This demonstrates how strategic marketplaces drive not just awareness—but measurable business outcomes.

Culture, Community, and Inclusive Growth

Beyond commerce, the fair highlights the role of MSMEs in preserving identity and creating livelihoods. “We’re not just selling products—we’re sharing our culture,” said Sherly Biase of Basilio’s Kini-ing Food Processing. “Through the DTI National Food Fair, we introduce Cordilleran cuisine, correct misconceptions, and create livelihood for our farmers. With SM, it’s not just foot traffic—it’s the right market that helps us scale and connect to bigger opportunities.” Here, MSMEs become more than businesses—they become drivers of cultural preservation and community development.

A Shared Commitment to Nation-Building

The success of the 2026 DTI National Food Fair underscores the strength of a model built on collaboration:

• DTIproviding capability-building and enterprise support
• SM Supermallsoffering scale, access, and market integration
• MSMEsdriving innovation, resilience, and growth

“This partnership allows us to bring MSMEs closer to the market—hindi lang sa Maynila kundi sa buong bansa,” said DTI Secretary Cristina Roque. With over 17,000 MSMEs nationwide, SM Supermalls continues to redefine its role—not just as a retail destination, but as a platform for inclusive growth and economic empowerment.

The 2026 DTI National Food Fair shows that when the public and private sectors collaborate, MSMEs go beyond simply taking part in the economy—they actively help shape and strengthen it. At SM Supermalls, every booth represents more than a business; it tells a story of growth, supports livelihoods, and contributes to a more resilient and inclusive Filipino economy. Join the movement that uplifts local entrepreneurship—visit the fair at SM Megamall until April 12 and see how MSMEs are driving the future of the country’s economy.

To learn more, visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email [email protected].

 

As Filipinos continue to face a challenging job market, finding meaningful and stable employment remains a daily pursuit for many. Across beloved SM Supermalls nationwide, job fairs are conducted year-round, consistently offering accessible work opportunities within local communities.

This Labor Day season, the effort becomes even more impactful. In celebration of Araw ng Manggagawa on May 1, SM Supermalls brings together job opportunities, skills training, and essential support services on a larger scale—emphasizing the importance of employment in nation-building and reaffirming its commitment to helping Filipinos progress.

Across SM malls nationwide, jobseekers—from fresh graduates to career shifters—are given the opportunity to take the next step toward a better future. More than a hiring event, SM Job Fairs have evolved into a full career ecosystem—connecting talent with employers while also enabling access to government services and upskilling opportunities that help individuals stay job-ready in a rapidly changing workforce.

A Job Fair that Works

For many Filipinos, especially first-time jobseekers and breadwinners, SM Job Fairs offer more than convenience—they deliver real outcomes. “Makakatulong yung ganitong pa-event sa mga pamilya,” shared Joshua Bulauitan, hired on the spot as a Sales Clerk. “Kung wala kang trabaho at nagigipit ka na, pumunta ka lang dito—may instant trabaho ka.”  This reflects SM’s strong hiring demand, translating into real jobs—not just applications.

Employers meet job-ready talent, faster

Employers likewise cited the effectiveness of SM Job Fairs in reaching the right candidates efficiently.

 “Sumali po kami dito because we are looking to hire more employees,” said Lyka Sababan of SM Appliance Center. “Alam po namin na maraming jobseekers ang pumupunta dito, and effective po talaga ang job fairs para sa mga companies na naghahanap ng new employees.”

One-Stop Job Application Made Easy

What sets SM Job Fairs apart is its ability to bring everything together in one place. From job applications and interviews to government requirements such as SSS, PhilHealth, and other employment documentation, the process becomes faster, easier, and more accessible for every jobseeker.

“Malaki ang tulong ng SM Supermalls sa PESO at DOLE,” said Jon Tito, Group Leader of QC PESO. “Kinakalat nila ang opportunities para sa mga naghahanap ng trabaho.”

“Pinapadali ng ganitong job fairs ang mga oportunidad para sa jobseekers, may hired on the spot ka na at nandito na rin ang mga government agencies para sa requirements.” explained Adolf Hernandez of PhilHealth QC.

Beyond employment, SM is also strengthening its role in workforce development by introducing upskilling opportunities—including digital and AI learning sessions in partnership with institutions such as Asia Pacific College. These initiatives aim to equip Filipinos with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in today’s evolving job market. Because today, it’s not just about finding a job—it’s about being ready for what comes next.

More Opportunities This April

In the lead-up to Labor Day, SM Supermalls continues its nationwide job fair rollout, providing more opportunities for jobseekers to begin their employment journey:

• April 15 – SM City Davao
• April 16 – SM City Marikina
• April 24 – SM City Novaliches
• April 25 – SM City Fairview
• April 30 – SM City Trece Martires

These runs ensure that opportunities remain accessible ahead of the Labor Day peak—allowing more Filipinos to connect with employers, apply, and get hired.

The Main Event: May 1 Labor Day Job Fairs

On May 1, SM Job Fairs will be mounted across key locations nationwide, bringing together employers, jobseekers, and partners in one high-impact day of hiring:

1. SMX Convention Center
2. SM City Grand Central
3. SM City Caloocan
4. SM City Marikina
5. SM City East Ortigas
6. SM City Baguio
7. SM City Laoag
8. SM City Tuguegarao
9. SM City Cabanatuan
10. SM City Marilao
11. SM City Pampanga
12. SM City Olongapo Central
13. SM City Taytay
14. SM City Bacolod
15. SM CDO Downtown Premier
16. SM City Davao

*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice. For the latest updates, visit www.smsupermalls.com/jobfair, scan the official Job Fair QR code, or follow SM Supermalls on social media for updates.

Jobseekers are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resumes and valid IDs, and visit their nearest SM mall for a chance to be hired on the spot.

Building Futures, Strengthening Communities

Through close collaboration with government agencies, employers, and institutional partners, SM Job Fairs continue to show how accessible platforms can drive meaningful impact—empowering individuals to move forward while supporting broader economic recovery and workforce growth.

At its heart, the initiative embodies SM Supermalls’ dedication to nation-building—linking Filipinos to opportunities, equipping them with essential skills, and uplifting communities nationwide. At SM, it goes beyond simply bringing people together—it’s about helping them take the next step forward.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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With a record 10,500 participants nationwide, SM just wrapped up its most successful Happy Walk yet, marking the largest celebration of its kind in Asia. This milestone reflects SM’s long-standing “Mall for All” mission. For over two decades, SM Cares and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) have partnered to create this powerful showcase of support, unity, and empowerment for the Down Syndrome community.

Happy Walk 2026 set a new milestone as Asia’s largest gathering of supporters for the Down syndrome community, bringing together 10,500 advocates nationwide in a powerful display of unity and empowerment.

Organized by SM Cares in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Inc., the event took place simultaneously on March 29 at SMX Manila, SM City Bacolod, and SM City Cebu. This year’s celebration highlighted that the movement’s true strength lies not just in its scale, but in SM’s continued commitment to fostering inclusive spaces where individuals with Down syndrome are recognized, celebrated, and given opportunities to thrive.

Big change through continued, united steps

Since the very first Happy Walk in 2003, the event serves as a joyful gathering for the Down syndrome community and its supporters. This year’s program highlighted self-expression, talent, and community participation through activities such as the Happy Walk parade, stage performances, activity booths, and DS Got Talent. All milestones were designed to promote the talents and abilities of individuals with Down syndrome, foster inclusion and awareness, and provide a platform for self-expression beyond familiar stereotypes.

It also reinforced a message that remains at the heart of the advocacy: that inclusion is not a one-day effort, but a continuing commitment to creating environments where every individual is embraced, empowered, and supported.

Through SM Cares, SM Supermalls remains committed to opening spaces for this advocacy year after year—helping build communities where dignity, opportunity, and belonging are not the exception, but the norm. SM’s deeper drive for inclusivity stems from its pursuit of becoming a true Mall for All—standing as the most-loved mall for its customers no matter what their needs may be.

Exceeding expectations

This year’s theme, “321 & Beyond – Raising Aspirations, Inclusion, Support & Empowerment for People with Down Syndrome,” centered on advancing opportunities as well as recognizing the potential and abilities of the Down Syndrome community.

The celebration centered on four key pillars: raising aspirations, promoting inclusion, providing support, and fostering empowerment. It emphasized the need to help individuals with Down syndrome dream bigger, engage more actively in schools, workplaces, and communities, gain access to essential support, and have opportunities where their voices and talents can be acknowledged.

 

 

 

 

 

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SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), led a series of impactful, nationwide initiatives in celebration of Fire Prevention Month. Across its network of most-loved malls and through SM Cares, SM sought to empower Filipinos with life-saving knowledge, preparedness skills, and a shared responsibility for fire safety.

Reinforcing its dedication to public safety and community resilience, SM Supermalls, in collaboration with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), rolled out a series of meaningful nationwide initiatives for Fire Prevention Month. These efforts aimed to equip Filipinos with essential life-saving knowledge, strengthen preparedness, and promote shared responsibility for fire safety across its malls.

Organized through SM Cares, the CSR arm of SM Supermalls, the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill gathered nearly 30,000 participants—including SM personnel, tenant staff, security and maintenance teams, students, shoppers, and nearby barangay residents—marking a 30% increase from the previous year. With the theme “Sa pag-iwas sa sunog hindi ka nag-iisa, kababaihan kasama mo!”, the activity enhanced emergency response coordination and provided communities with hands-on experience in proper evacuation procedures. Meanwhile, the Fire Square Road Show delivered interactive fire safety education across 16 SM malls, reaching 8,611 participants through live demonstrations, equipment displays, and engaging, hands-on activities tailored for families, students, and local communities.

A large-scale Fire Prevention Month illumination at the SM Mall of Asia Globe featured a dramatic “Venus Symbol Formation” created by 263 fire trucks and emergency vehicles, with 2,827 participants, honoring firefighters and raising awareness about fire safety and emergency preparedness.

The Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines (TOFF) 2026 search was officially launched with leaders from SM, the BFP, and the DILG, led by Undersecretary Rolando C. Puno as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS). Now in its third year, TOFF continues to honor Filipino firefighters for their outstanding contributions to fire safety and protection, emergency response, community education, and resilience-building efforts. The initiative also underscores the strong partnership between SM Prime and the BFP in advancing a safer and more resilient Philippines.

 

 

 

Capturing your everyday life has its own kind of magic. Whether you’re filming quick snippets of quiet moments in a café or going all out with a full-on food vlog at a newly discovered restaurant, creating your own content turns ordinary experiences into something worth reliving.

It’s just another day, another vlog—but who would’ve guessed that documenting even the simplest parts of your routine could make daily life feel so much more lively and exciting?

Hey, hey, hey, it’s your favorite mall here! Welcome to a day in the life with your most-loved SM Supermalls. Come spend a day walking through all the best new discoveries here in Luzon, chosen All For You!

9:30 AM: Morning Treats & Cozy Vibes

Start your day right with an early morning drift. Sip on your favorite coffee, nibble on freshly made desserts, and soak in all the Instagrammable corners of these content-worthy hangout spots.

Start your day on a sweet note with the first J.CO Reserve in Bulacan at SM City Marilao, now open at the Lower Ground Level. Known for its elevated café concept, J.CO Reserve serves up its famously made donuts, paired with rich coffee blends in a sit-down setting that is perfect for easing into your day or catching up over a well-deserved break.

12:20 PM: Late Lunch Fixes
It’s right at that moment when hunger hits—time to eat! What’s the craving, fam? Chinese food? Japanese BBQ? From huge feasts to comforting bites, it’s never too late to fuel your midday adventures and make your feed as satisfying as your pleased appetite.

• Yakiniku Like
  Craving a solo-style feast? Head over to the first Yakiniku Like in Cavite at SM City Bacoor, and take control of your own grill at their fast-casual Japanese yakiniku concept that lets you enjoy solo. Complete with customizable meat sets, individual grills, and quick service, this resto is certainly a great match for that sponty food stop in between errands.

• Wangfu
  Get your well-deserved fill at Wangfu, now open at SM City Dasmariñas and soon arriving at SM City Bacoor. Loved for its modern take on Chinese cuisine, Wangfu offers a wide selection of dim sum, roasted meats, and hearty family-style dishes, which makes it a solid choice for a late lunch dining.

4:45 PM: Content Creator Must-Haves

This is where your influencer era goes to the next level. Lights, angles, aesthetics—capture it all. Every mall day can be turned into a scroll-stopping moment, where your creativity can have its work and play!

• Insta360
  Make a stop at the soon to open Insta360store at 4th Level of Cyberzone, SM City Grand Central and explore a range of innovative 360 cameras, action cams, and creator-ready accessories built for capturing every angle. Whether you’re leveling up your vlogs, experimenting with immersive content, or upgrading your gear setup, it’s all about bringing next-level storytelling and creativity to every shot.

• Blk Cosmetics
  Freshen up and do some retouching at Blk Cosmetics at SM City Calamba, a local beauty brand focused on uncomplicated, everyday makeup, offering a range of easy-to-use cosmetics from lip products and face tints to skincare and fragrances. Made with skin-friendly formulations for a low-effort, everyday look, Blk is designed for quick routines and on-the-go touch-ups perfect for your everyday vlog.

That’s a wrap! Thanks for joining a day made extra special at your favorite mall. From exciting new finds to can’t-miss food spots, SM Supermalls truly has everything you need. Until the next vlog—see you!

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com to stay updated on the latest happenings and events.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marking three decades of promoting corporate citizenship, the League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) urged businesses to view corporate social responsibility (CSR) not as a peripheral activity but as an integral part of their operations—ensuring shared value that is both proactive and responsive to today’s social and environmental challenges.

The call was made during a press launch on April 16, where LCF officially unveiled the theme of this year’s CSR Conference and Expo: “Adapt. Align. Accelerate.” The theme also celebrates the League’s 30th anniversary and its continued advocacy for responsible business and strategic philanthropy in the Philippines.

“Thirty years in, the question is no longer whether businesses should invest in communities. Rather, it is whether those investments are built to last and designed to solve,” said Shem Jose Garcia, Chairperson of LCF and Executive Director of Vivant Foundation, Inc. He also considered the league’s longevity not only as a milestone, but also as a call to the sector to “raise the bar that it established.”

At the same event, LCF unveiled a new logo — a multicolored pinwheel reflecting its belief that impact is never created alone, with each color representing the foundation’s diverse sectors and advocacies, and the gradient transitions symbolizing the convergence of perspectives and resources.

The 2026 CSR Conference will be held during the CSR Week on July 1-2, 2026 at Bayanihan Center, Pasig, Metro Manila, while the CSR Expo will be held on October 1-2, 2026 at the Glorietta Activity Center, Makati City, Metro Manila. The theme, as LCF frames it, aims to showcase the corporate sector’s capacity to adapt to a rapidly changing world, align their programs with genuine community needs, and accelerate impact through collective action, with the end goal of raising the overall standard of CSR in the Philippines.

Against this backdrop, the 2026 conference challenges the corporate sector to respond strategically, collaboratively, and with measurable outcomes. The call comes at a time when the Philippines is experiencing multiple crises—rising costs of living, energy shocks, climate-related disasters, and persistent poverty—that are demanding more from the private sector than one-off programs.

“The world has been changing rapidly and CSR must change with it,” said Garcia. “What we need to evolve is to align our programs with real needs and accelerate our impact where it matters most.”

Still, Garcia pointed out that achieving that impact takes more than any single business or sector can do on its own.

Katherine Anne Khoo, Head of Strategy and Impact of Ayala Foundation, Inc., echoed this sentiment, as she looked forward to what this year’s conference could unlock for the sector. “I think [success would look like having] more collaboration. We often take for granted the fact that we are members of this network and that we’re all friends. But I feel like there’s so much more opportunity to actually do things together.”

This collaboration, as Melody Del Rosario, President of the Metro Pacific Investments Foundation, noted, should also reach beyond familiar circles and engage the expertise of those closest to the problems being solved. “For CSR to be relevant, you have to make sure that you have experts and scientists to back up most of your programs,” she said.

As part of its commitment to elevating CSR excellence, LCF will present the Guild Awards during in June 30.  The Awards will recognize outstanding initiatives by its members that have significantly impacted communities. The Medal of Recognition will be accorded to non-LCF members whose work has made a difference across seven thematic areas: Arts and Culture, Disaster Resilience, Education, Environment, Enterprise Development, Financial Inclusion, and Health.

Moreover, the Conference will provide a space for businesses, national government organizations, academe, youth groups, and government agencies to engage and collaborate around CSR innovations.

LCF brings together 96 corporate members and foundations nationwide, positioning it as the Philippines’ leading network for responsible business and strategic philanthropy. As it celebrates its 30th anniversary, the organization is renewing its commitment to elevate the overall standard of corporate citizenship in the country.

“At 30, this is not just about celebrating past achievements—it’s about challenging what lies ahead. Beyond the legacy we’ve built, we must ask ourselves: what more can we do to create impact that is not only meaningful, but essential?” Garcia said.