Thursday, September 17, 2026

10 Wedding Details Worth Spending On This Year

With so many decisions that go into planning a wedding, knowing which details are worth prioritizing can make all the difference. From the little touches guests remember to the bigger decisions that shape the celebration, couples today are looking for ideas that feel intentional, personal, and worth the investment.

This September, the 47th Wedding Expo Philippines by Themes and Motifs brings together verified and registered wedding businesses, giving soon-to-weds the opportunity to see, taste, compare, and experience ideas before making those important wedding decisions.


Here are ten wedding details worth considering this year:

**1. A Favor Guests Will Use and Won’t Just Leave Behind**

Wedding favors are more meaningful when they have a life beyond the celebration. The Amenity Studio offers thoughtful gift sets that guests can actually enjoy and use after the wedding, making the traditional thank-you favor feel a little more worthwhile.

With different gift set options and customization available, couples can choose something that suits their celebration, guest list, and budget.

**Good to Know:**

Pleated Collection featuring two (2) Hermès Eau d’Orange Verte Pleated Soap 50g start at ₱750 per set.

New gift sets, beautifully encased in the signature Hermès Hotelier Collection box, start at ₱800 per set.

Purchase 10 sets and enjoy 10% off or complimentary customization.

The Amenity Studio: https://www.instagram.com/amenitystudioph


2. A Sweet Take on Cocktail Hour

A cocktail hour is all about giving guests a chance to mingle, grab a drink, and ease into the celebration. An ice cream cart can bring that same social energy to dessert, creating a casual stop for guests to gather and enjoy a treat between the ceremony and reception.

Arce Dairy Ice Cream Cart offers couples a fun and interactive way to add another food moment to the celebration, with packages designed for groups of different sizes. The cart signage can also be customized to complement the wedding theme, making it not just a dessert stop, but another thoughtful detail within the celebration.

**Good to Know:**

Packages start at ₱8,000 for 50 guests.

Arce Dairy Ice Cream Cart - 0956 726 0488

3. A Menu You Can Taste Before You Commit**

Food can take up a significant part of the wedding budget, so tasting it before booking makes sense.

At the Expo, engaged couples can experience complimentary wedding menu tastings from Richgold Weddings, Hizon’s Catering, and Chinz Production & Events—an opportunity to sample dishes, see the presentation, experience the service, and speak directly with the teams before making a decision.

Good to Know:

Richgold Weddings brings complete wedding catering to the table, from menu planning and food presentation to professional service for the celebration: www.facebook.com/RGWed

Hizon’s Catering offers wedding catering with thoughtfully prepared menus and polished food presentation designed for memorable receptions: www.facebook.com/weddingcateringbyhizons

Chinz Production & Events provides wedding catering and food service, helping couples create a well-rounded dining experience for their guests: www.facebook.com/ChinzProduction


4. A Pre-Nup Experience Worth Entering For

Wedding photography is one of the investments that stays with couples long after the celebration is over. This year, Nice Print Photography celebrates its 20th anniversary alongside Themes & Motifs’ 25th anniversary with a special opportunity for soon-to-weds.

Two pre-registered couples will each have the chance to win a Pre-Nup Photoshoot Package.

**Good to Know:**

Nice Print Photography offers professional wedding photography and videography, documenting everything from the intimate details to the biggest moments of the celebration: https://niceprintphoto.com

5. More Than Just the Wedding Cake

The cake may be the centerpiece, but it doesn’t have to be the entire dessert story. Smaller pastries and sweets such as the decadent French macaron can add variety to the reception. Dylan Patisserie offers more choices for couples building a dessert selection around their celebration—from the main cake to treats guests can enjoy throughout the reception.

**Good to Know:**

From wedding cakes to elegant French macarons and other pastries, Dylan Patisserie offers couples more ways to build a dessert selection for their celebration: https://dylanpatisserie.com

6. Jewelry You’ll Still Love After the Wedding

Some wedding details are meant to last far beyond the reception. Goldenhills Jewelry offers jewelry for meaningful milestones. Seeing pieces in person at the Expo gives couples the opportunity to discover styles and find something that feels right before making a decision.

**Good to Know:**

At Goldenhills Jewelry discover more options for the wedding day and other milestones to come: www.facebook.com/goldenhillsjewel


7. A Venue That Becomes Part of the Experience

A venue does more than accommodate a guest list it helps establish the atmosphere of the entire celebration.

Couples considering an intimate stay, a destination wedding, or a celebration with a memorable setting can explore options from Solace Events Hotel and Villas, Tagaytay Highlands, and Taal Vista Hotel. Expo partner hotels Admiral Hotel, City of Dreams, and Hilton Manila add more possibilities for couples planning celebrations in the city.

**Good to Know:**

Solace Events Hotel and Villas offers couples a more intimate setting where the wedding, accommodations, and overall stay can feel like one thoughtfully planned experience: www.solacehotelandvilla.com

Tagaytay Highlands is ideal for couples drawn to a scenic mountain wedding, with lush surroundings and sweeping views that create a naturally beautiful backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions: www.tagaytay-highlands.com

Taal Vista Hotel brings a timeless Tagaytay setting to weddings, pairing its heritage atmosphere with views of Taal Lake and spaces suited to both elegant indoor celebrations and garden gatherings: www.taalvistahotel.com

Admiral Hotel Manila gives city weddings a distinctive character, blending its heritage-inspired interiors with Manila Bay views for a celebration that feels both grand and intimate: www.admiralhotelmanila.com

City of Dreams Manila offers couples the convenience of having the wedding celebration, accommodations, dining, and after-party experience all within one destination: www.cityofdreamsmanila.com

Hilton Manila provides a polished contemporary setting with versatile event spaces, making it a practical choice for couples planning anything from a more intimate reception to a larger celebration: www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mnlphhi-hilton-manila-newport-world-resorts

8. A Cocktail Experience Worth Adding to the Celebration

There’s something reassuring about meeting the people behind a wedding business before choosing them to be part of your celebration. Sebastiao Cocktails brings cocktail service and mobile bar experiences to the Expo, giving couples a chance to see their offerings up close, share their ideas, and discover how a stylish and festive beverage experience can become part of their wedding celebration.

For couples looking beyond the usual bar menu, Frosé offers a refreshing and contemporary way to make drinks part of the celebration experience. Its playful presentation and easy-to-enjoy character make it a natural addition to cocktail hour, outdoor weddings, and celebrations where couples want their beverage selection to feel as memorable as the food.

**Good to Know:**

Sebastiao Cocktails provides mobile bar and cocktail services that can be tailored to the style and flow of a wedding celebration: www.facebook.com/sebastiaococktails

Frosé brings a fun, frozen cocktail option to weddings, adding a refreshing alternative to the usual drinks menu: www.facebook.com/Frose.cocktail

9. A Fun Food Experience Beyond the Usual Reception Menu

Sushi isn't the first food that comes to mind when planning a traditional wedding reception, which is exactly what makes it an interesting addition. Sushi MNL gives couples a way to introduce something fresh and unexpected to cocktail hour, grazing tables, or late-night dining—adding variety while creating another food moment guests can gather around and enjoy.

Turn your dessert or cocktail hour into something guests can wander over to and enjoy with a beautifully styled pastry station from The Croissanterie. Featuring an assortment of sweet and savory croissants, the setup adds both visual appeal and something delicious for guests to discover, snack on, and share throughout the celebration.

**Good to Know:**

Sushi MNL for fresh sushi selections for cocktail hours, grazing tables, or late-night snacking: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084852640331

The Croissanterie for sweet and savory croissants presented as a stylish pastry station: www.facebook.com/Thecroissanterrieph

10. Turn Guest Moments Into Keepsakes

Not every wedding memory has to be about the couple. Salamin Manila gives guests their own moment in front of the camera, turning the reception into a space where they can play, pose, and create something together. With an interactive mirror, personalized templates, and instant prints, guests leave with a keepsake of a celebration they were part of—not just a photo of the couple.

Skip the one-size-fits-all souvenir. Personalized mini figures let you create a tiny version of each guest, making the favor itself part of the wedding experience. Randomsmiles by Christelle Tiquis brings this playful idea to life with custom figures that guests can enjoy during the celebration and take home afterward.

**Good to Know:**

Salamin Manila offers Interactive mirror photo booths with instant, personalized prints: www.facebook.com/salamin.manila

Randomsmiles by Christelle Tiquis for custom mini figures created as personalized wedding keepsakes: www.facebook.com/randomsmilesCT

The best wedding details are the ones guests can enjoy, experience, and remember. At the 47th Wedding Expo Philippines, couples can discover even more ideas through Clara Olé, the Expo’s Official Food Lifestyle Partner, 

with an interactive experience featuring food sampling, games, and culinary inspiration. The Book to Win promotion and hourly raffle draws from participating exhibitors and partners add even more reasons to explore.

Find the ideas that fit your celebration—and make them yours.

Pre-register now at www.themesnmotifs.com and secure your front-row access to the country’s premier bridal planning experience.

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Philippine Ballet Theatre Revives Gener Caringal's Andres KKK


There is a growing clamor for a modern-day hero to lead the Filipino people through these challenging times. We live in an age when political divisions no longer serve progress but instead deepen our distractions. Responding to the call of the times, Philippine Ballet Theatre (PBT), the National Performing Arts Company for Dance, revives Gener Caringal's Andres KKK. 

Through this timely revival, PBT hopes to cultivate nationalism, empower the common man, and awaken the spirit of what it means to be a nation.

Premiered in 1996 to commemorate the centennial of the Philippine Revolution, Andres KKK, with a libretto by Lilia Quindoza Santiago and an original score by Jesse Lucas, has become one of Gener Caringal's enduring masterpieces. It remains one of Philippine Ballet Theatre's most widely toured productions and a rite of passage for generations of PBT dancers. 

When Artistic Director Ronilo Jaynario was asked why he thinks this ballet has survived the test of time, he says, "PBT's version of history is not just pages of history in dance. It is a touching tribute to the struggles of the Filipino."

Jaynario himself portrayed Andres Bonifacio when the ballet premiered in 1996, and he still remembers how Caringal framed the hero. Rather than portraying Bonifacio as an untouchable icon or an invincible warrior, Caringal reveals the man behind the monument. His Bonifacio struggles, questions, sacrifices, and perseveres. He is not defined by superhuman strength but by an unwavering belief in his people and their shared dream of freedom.

Gener Caringal explains his Andres Bonifacio as a product of poverty, suffering, and love for his country. A hero was born because Bonifacio cared deeply for this land and its people. Moreover, in Caringal's vision, Bonifacio's greatest power does not come from standing above the people—it comes from standing among them. They were all heroes of their time, with Bonifacio serving as the symbol of their resolve.

In revisiting Bonifacio's story, Philippine Ballet Theatre invites audiences to reflect on a question that remains as urgent today as it was more than a century ago: What kind of hero does our nation need—and what kind of people must we become to stand behind one? What would it take to make heroes of all of us?

Stepping into the title roles are Mathew Davo and Dominador Delmo as Andres Bonifacio, with Jessa Tangalin and Sophia Tiangco alternating as Gregoria "Oryang" de Jesus.

Andres KKK will have a limited run at the Rockwell Proscenium Theater on August 22 and 23, 2026. Tickets are available through TicketWorld. For ticket inquiries, call 0968-870-8887.

Saturday, August 15, 2026

SM Little Stars Crowns Its First-Ever Grand Shining and Dazzling Stars

Gratiela Thresse M. Urmeneta of SM City Manila and Amiah Kaea Yzobel Quimzon of SM City Butuan capture SM Little Stars 2026's highest honors


The Grand Shining Star, Grand Dazzling Star, and runners-up pose with the SM Little Stars 2026 judges and organizers following the Grand Finals at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.


MANILA, Philippines, 11th August 2026 - From thousands of hopefuls across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, thirty of the country’s brightest young dreamers took center stage at the SM Little Stars 2026 Grand Finals. Captivating the audience at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, the finalists showcased exceptional talent and charm in a nationwide celebration of Filipino youth. More than a talent search, the annual competition highlights SM Supermalls’ commitment to discovering and nurturing limitless potential from every corner of the Philippines as these children embrace the biggest stage of their young lives. 


The Grand Finals marked the culmination of six weeks of auditions held across 68 of your most-loved SM Supermalls nationwide. More than 41,000 children aged 4 to 7 showcased their talents in singing, dancing, and other skills, with only 30 exceptional finalists earning coveted spots in the country’s biggest nationwide kiddie talent competition. While every finalist inspired the audience with their passion and determination, two young dreamers ultimately earned this year's highest honors.


Gratiela showcases her dance moves, while Amiah serenades the audience with her rendition of the classic Disney song “When You Wish Upon a Star” during the SM Little Stars 2026 Grand Finals.


Gratiela Thresse M. Urmeneta of SM City Manila was crowned this year’s Grand Shining Star, while Amiah Kaea Yzobel Quimzon of SM City Butuan earned the title of Grand Dazzling Star. Their remarkable performances and irresistible charm won over both the audience and the judges, bringing the competition to an unforgettable conclusion.


Urmenete wowed the audience with her energetic dance performance, while Quimzon serenaded the judges and crowd with her heartfelt rendition of the classic Disney song “When You Wish Upon a Star.”


For the mothers of the newly crowned stars, seeing their children take home the competition's highest honors was a proud and emotional moment after weeks of preparation and support. "Sobrang proud ako sa kanya. Nakita ko kung gaano siya nagsikap at nagtiwala sa sarili niya. Bukod sa pagkapanalo, masaya akong makita siyang lumabas sa stage na mas confident," said Sheilamay P. Mojuntou, mother of Grand Shining Star winner Gratiela Urmeneta.


Meanwhile, Vanessa Ysmaela D. Quimzon, mother of Grand Dazzling Star Amiah Quimzon, shared, "Gusto lang namin na ma-enjoy niya ang experience, kaya napakalaking bonus na makita siyang manalo. Thankful kami sa SM Little Stars sa pagkakataong ito."


Beyond the competition itself, the Grand Finals became a celebration for families, friends, and supporters who filled the venue with cheers, applause, and heartfelt encouragement. 


“Watching these young dreamers perform reminds us that every big journey begins with one brave step. SM Little Stars has always been more than a competition; it is a place where children discover confidence, families create lifelong memories, and dreams begin to take shape. We are proud to continue providing that stage for Filipino children year after year," said Hanna Carinna T. Sy, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Leasing.


This year’s finalists were evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges composed of singer, actress, and host Karylle Yuzon, award-winning filmmaker Antoinette Jadaone, OPM hitmaker and ABS-CBN Music Assistant Vice President Jonathan Manalo, "Gala To The Max" choreographer Angel Datanagan, and SM Little Stars 2016 Grand Winner Marcus Cabais. Their expertise and insights helped recognize the young performers who best embodied the talent, confidence, and stage presence that define SM Little Stars.


Urmeneta and Quimzon were joined by 1st Runner-Up Amara Jade F. Sabino of SM City Lipa, 2nd Runner-Up Seth Nicolas B. Jacinto of SM City San Jose del Monte, and 3rd Runner-Up John Rouie S. Dizon of SM City Pampanga.


As this year's top winners, Urmeneta and Quimzon each received a prize package worth celebrating, including ₱100,000 in cash and SM Gift Certificates, a National University college scholarship, a brand-new car, an all-expense-paid trip to Hong Kong, and many more exciting rewards.


Aside from crowning the two grand winners, SM Little Stars 2026 also recognized three runners-up, the finalists who placed sixth to tenth, and recipients of the special awards: People’s Choice Award, Little Style Stars, Little Sparkling Stars, and Little Pop Star.


Beyond the titles and prizes, every finalist took home something even more meaningful—the courage to dream bigger, cherished memories with their families, and the confidence to take the next step in their journey. These unforgettable moments are a testament to the enduring legacy of SM Little Stars, which continues to inspire young talents and create meaningful experiences for 17 years and beyond.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolvingshaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.


SM Expands ‘Green Recycling Machine’ Network to Boost Nationwide Recycling

 

MANILA, Philippines — What if your used plastic bottle could become part of something much bigger? Through the right machine it can!

SM Cares, through the SM Green Movement, has partnered with recycling technology company Sparklo to deploy SM Green Recycling Machines to 30 SM Supermalls across the country. Through the nationwide deployment across SM’s network of most-loved malls, responsible waste disposal becomes easier, more engaging, and more rewarding for mallgoers. 

The reverse vending machines empower customers to deposit eligible plastic bottles in exchange for rewards. The partnership turns simple mall, customer visits into pathways to help support the SM Green Movement through responsible waste management and segregation to divert waste away from landfills and maximize resources through recycling.

SM Green Recycling Machines are now available in key locations across Metro Manila, Batangas, Laguna, Cavite, Bulacan, Pampanga, Baguio, Pangasinan, La Union, Rizal, and Cebu.










Each plastic bottle placed in the machines represents more than properly managed waste. It is a small but meaningful choice that helps keep recyclable materials in circulation, supports responsible consumption, and brings communities closer to an SM Waste-Free Future.

The partnership forms part of the SM Cares Environmental Sustainability Program under its Waste Management Pillar. It complements SM’s existing circular economy and waste management efforts, including the Trash to Cash Program and the Plastic Waste Collection Program.

Through initiatives like these, SM Cares seeks to make sustainable living easier to understand and practice. Rather than asking people to make sweeping changes all at once, the SM Green Recycling Machines show how everyday actions—repeated by families, students, young people, and communities - can collectively create lasting environmental impact.

With Sparklo’s technology and the reach of SM Supermalls, recycling becomes more than a responsibility. It becomes a convenient and rewarding habit that Filipinos can carry into their daily lives one plastic bottle and one better choice at a time.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences. 

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM.

About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.


Saturday, June 27, 2026

Wake of Chriz Lorenz Fabian


In a gesture of sympathy and support, Martin Romualdez visited the wake of Chriz Lorenz Fabian, one of the victims of the San Jose National High School shooting, in Tacloban City on June 22, 2026.

Saturday, June 6, 2026

SM for MSMEs Brings Opportunities Closer Nationwide this May

Metro Manila, Philippines — This May, SM Supermalls, through its SM for MSMEs program, continues to empower entrepreneurs and communities by rolling out a series of high-impact initiatives across the country - creating spaces where local businesses grow, jobseekers find opportunities, and communities thrive.

From local bazaars to job and business programs and regional trade showcases, SM reinforces its role as a nationwide platform for inclusive growth, enabling community opportunities  by connecting MSMEs to markets, mentorship, and meaningful opportunities.

Celebrating Local Love at NakakaLocal Bazaar in Davao (May 8–10)

SM Supermalls executives Jason Penna, Asst. Mall Manager of SM Baguio, Pats Dy, Senior Asst. Vice President for SM Communities Marketing and Royce Cabunag, Asst. Vice President and Lead for SM Communities together with Lucien C. Dy Tioco, EVP of PhilSTAR Media Group; Gladys Vergara, chairperson of the Baguio Tourism Council; Atty. Raymond G. Panhon, regional director, CAR Department of Trade and Industry open the NakakaLocal Bazaar at SM City Baguio, championing Filipino MSMEs and local creativity.

Kicking off the month is the PHILSTAR NakakaLocal Bazaar at SM City Davao from May 8 to 10, transforming the Annex Event Center into a vibrant celebration of Filipino creativity and entrepreneurship.

Timed with Mother’s Day, the bazaar offers a curated selection of thoughtful gifts, local crafts, and proudly Pinoy products, making it the perfect destination for families looking to celebrate with heart.
Shoppers can discover unique finds, enjoy live performances from local artists, and experience the warmth of community through homegrown brands.


More than a retail event, NakakaLocal highlights how SM Supermalls provides MSMEs with high-visibility platforms that turn passion into progress.

Connecting Jobs and Businesses in Cebu (May 9)

On May 9, opportunities take center stage at SM Seaside City Cebu through Trabaho at Negosyo, a flagship program of the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship – Go Negosyo. Happening at the Mountain Wing Atrium, the event brings together jobseekers, entrepreneurs, mentors, and employers in one accessible venue - offering free business mentorship, financial guidance, market linkages, and on-the-spot job opportunities.

Angkas CEO George Royeca, HE President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., LT Group Inc. President Micheal Tan, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, Pasay Mayor Emi Rubiano, Go Negosyo Founder Joey Concepcion, PCCI Chairman George Barcelon and SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin, come together at Trabaho at Negosyo at SM Mall of Asia, reinforcing collaboration for livelihood and enterprise development.


Through programs like Trabaho at Negosyo, SM Supermalls strengthens its role as a community hub for opportunity, helping Filipinos build livelihoods, grow businesses, and prepare for a future-ready workforce.
A strong turnout of participants fills SM Mall of Asia, reflecting the growing demand for jobs, mentorship, and entrepreneurial opportunities

jobseeker at SM East Ortigas celebrates being hired on the spot at Trabaho at Negosyo—demonstrating how SM connects Filipinos to real opportunities.


A spot jobseeker at SM East Ortigas celebrates being hired on the spot at Trabaho at Negosyo—demonstrating how SM connects Filipinos to real opportunities.

MSMEs and aspiring entrepreneurs receive guidance from industry mentors, highlighting SM’s role as a hub for growth and learning.


Showcasing Negrense Excellence at the Bulawan Trade Fair (May 26–31)

Closing the month is the highly anticipated Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod from May 26 to 31, in partnership with the Association of Negros Producers (ANP). The fair serves as a premier showcase of Negrense craftsmanship, innovation, and product excellence, featuring a diverse range of food, fashion, home décor, and artisanal goods. It also highlights prestigious competitions such as the Bulawan Awards, Pilak Awards, and Balik Salig Design Competition, recognizing excellence in design and product development

Visitors explore curated exhibits of award-winning products, celebrating excellence in design and product development from Negros Island.

More than a regional showcase, the Bulawan Trade Fair serves as a gateway to national opportunities, enabling MSMEs to scale from local enterprises into competitive brands through SM’s expansive retail network.

Negrense craftsmanship takes the spotlight at the Bulawan Trade Fair in SM City Bacolod, showcasing locally made products rooted in culture and innovation. An artisan demonstrates traditional weaving techniques, preserving heritage while creating livelihood opportunities through SM’s platform


A Nationwide Platform for MSME Success

Across all these initiatives, one thing remains clear: SM Supermalls is more than a retail destination—it is a platform for growth, collaboration, and nation-building.

By providing:

  • High-impact marketplaces

  • Access to mentorship and market opportunities

  • Platforms for employment and entrepreneurship

  • Strong partnerships with government and private sector organizations


SM continues to champion over 17,000 MSMEs nationwide, helping them connect with customers, expand their reach, and build sustainable businesses.

From Davao to Cebu to Bacolod, SM for MSMEs brings opportunities closer to Filipinos - proving that when the right platforms are in place, local businesses don’t just grow, they thrive. Visit participating SM malls this May and be part of a movement that champions Filipino entrepreneurship and builds a more inclusive and resilient Philippine economy.

The Bulawan Trade Fair transforms SM City Bacolod into a dynamic marketplace where MSMEs connect with wider markets and new opportunities.

About SM Supermalls - MSMEs

SM Supermalls - one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 90 malls nationwidcreates business opportunities through its SM for MSMEs advocacy program, by providing market access, visibility, mentorship, and a marketplace where enterprises can grow and thrive. By connecting entrepreneurs to communities and customers, SM enables businesses to scale and succeed. Because when MSMEs thrive, communities grow stronger—reflecting SM’s commitment to building a future designed All For You. To learn more, visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com.



Wednesday, April 22, 2026

SM reinforces public safety through nationwide Fire Prevention Month programs


Participants from SM Supermalls, the Bureau of Fire Protection, partner agencies, and community volunteers come together for the Fire Prevention Month activities, reinforcing a shared commitment to safety, preparedness, and building disaster-resilient communities.


MANILA, Philippines, April 06, 2026 - Reaffirming its commitment to public safety and community resilience, SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), led a series of impactful, nationwide initiatives in celebration of Fire Prevention Month, empowering Filipinos with life-saving knowledge, preparedness skills, and a shared responsibility for fire safety across its network of most-loved malls.

Mounted through SM Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill engaged almost 30,000 participants composed of SM employees, tenant employees, security and janitorial personnel, students, mall goers, and residents of barangays near SM malls which was a 30% increase in participants versus the previous year.

With the theme ‘Sa pag-iwas sa sunog hindi ka nag-iisa, kababaihan kasama mo!’, the drill strengthened coordination in emergency response, especially helping communities practice life-saving evacuation procedures. In addition, the Fire Square Road Show brought interactive fire safety education to the public across 16 participating SM malls, reaching 8,611 participants through demonstrations, equipment showcases, and hands-on safety activities designed for families, students, and community members. 

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 search for the Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines (TOFF) 2026 was formally launched with officers of SM, BFP and DILG headed by Usec. Rolando C. Puno as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS). TOFF is on its 3rd solid year of recognizing Filipino firefighters for their exemplary service in fire safety and protection, emergency response, community education, and resilience-building initiatives. This highlights the partnership between SM Prime and BFP for a safer, more resilient Philippines.



About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolvingshaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.


As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.



About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement. 

 

On March 1, the SM Mall of Asia Globe lights up in purple signaling the joint celebration of Women’s Month and Fire Prevention Month 2026. The purple illumination and formation of the Venus symbol signifies dignity, justice, and empowerment for all women and girls, and marking the start of SM Cares’ month-long advocacy in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Women on Fire: Women firefighters take part in the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill on March 3 at SM Mall of Asia, showcasing courage, skill, and leadership while advancing the role of women in safety, service, and community protection.


A woman BFP firefighter teaches Hands-Only CPR to young students during the Fire Square Road Show at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on March 3, underscoring the importance of education and community awareness in building a safer, more prepared future.

The official launch of the TOFF 2026 on March 3 at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall with DILG Usec. Rolando C. Puno as GOHAS together with SM officers, TOFF 2025 judges and BFP Officer-in-Charge Fire Chief Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Ang Kwan Tiu