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2026/02/23

One Ilocos Sur: Festival 2026 Draws Record Crowd Across Ilocos Sur

2/23/2026 10:47:00 PM


For 12 days, Ilocos Sur became a center of culture, faith, and community pride as the Ilocos Sur Festival 2026 unfolded across the province. From early morning prayers to late-night concerts, towns and cities came alive with activities that welcomed everyone—farmers and fisherfolk, balikbayans, and younger creatives—into one shared celebration.

 


The festival opened with the Ilocos Sur Trade and Food Fair, where local government units, small businesses, and artisans turned simple booths into showcases of local talent. The Municipality of Caoayan earned top honors for its display, while products such as Double Cacao Delight and ube vinegar drew attention for their creativity. Artisans also demonstrated their skills on site, and the Most Innovative Product Competition highlighted how traditional crafts can find new life in today’s market.

Faith and tradition took center stage during the Eucharistic Celebration and the Los Patrones Procession, drawing clergy, local officials, and devotees in a show of unity. Soon after, the mood shifted as the Grand Parade filled the streets with color and music. Floats and performers from different towns told local stories through vibrant designs, with Sinait, Sigay, and Narvacan winning top awards in the float competition. The parade brought together people from all sectors, turning the streets into one long line of celebration.


 
The festival’s grand opening at Quirino Stadium set the tone for the days ahead. A drone show lit up the night sky, the Provincial Capitol glowed with lights, and performances by Kai Montinola and Kyle Echarri capped the evening. Organizers said the Grand Parade alone drew about 40,000 participants, marking the highest turnout the festival has seen in recent years.








 

The day after, Agri Day had the spotlight shifted to the hands that feed Ilocos Sur—its farmers and fisherfolk—at the Narvacan Farmers Market on 2 February 2026. Tractor floats paraded in style, with Narvacan topping the competition, while Bantay was hailed as “AGRI-Pinaka Productive LGU,” underscoring agriculture as the province’s lifeblood. The festival then extended a warm embrace to its global family through “An Evening with the Balikbayans” at CHAVIT Coliseum, where Ilocanos from abroad were honored for their contributions and enduring love for home, highlighted by the presentation of the Global ONE Ilocos Sur Association (GO ISA).

Alongside heritage, pop culture had its moment with the Esports and Cosplay Competition, where anime, game, and comic characters came alive in cloth and mecha categories judged by Myrtle Sarrosa and fellow enthusiasts. The energy shifted yet again with Bingo Night at Quirino Stadium, as thousands played for big prizes, culminating in a thrilling 100,000 pesos grand blackout win that had the entire crowd roaring.


 

Culture took a bold turn at Tinnatoan: Tattoo Expo, where traditional and contemporary tattoo artists, including Kalinga mambabatok and descendants of Apo Whang-Od, showcased tattooing as living heritage and identity. Honors were given to artists and cultural bearers, and the Best of Show competition spotlighted pieces that fused symbolism with innovation.

From skin art to stage presence, Mister Ilocos Sur 2026 crowned Aries Ronie Patis of Santa Cruz as Mister Ilocos Sur, alongside gentlemen recognized for goodwill, culture, and leadership—proving that modern Ilocano masculinity is built on strength, service, and cultural pride. On the coast, Bangkarera put fisherfolk and racers in the limelight, as boats sliced through the water in multiple race categories—National Open Formula, National Open Panaltagan, Bachola and Rakit, honoring sea-based skills and coastal communities.

The adrenaline did not stop there. A two-day Motocross Competition in the Municipality of Salcedo turned rugged terrain into a playground of speed and skill, featuring categories from 65cc and Ladies Class to the heart-stopping Pro Open race. Riders, brands, and fans came together in a high-octane celebration that positioned Ilocos Sur as a rising hub for extreme sports and adventure tourism.


Inclusivity, beauty, and self-expression took center stage at the Ilocos Sur Pride Queen 2026 Coronation Night, where Luivie Bitongan of Candon City led a court of powerful Pride Queens who turned the CHAVIT Coliseum into a stage of authenticity and courage. Later, Miss Ilocos Sur 2026 crowned Narvacan’s Nathalie Clarin as its new queen, with court members representing tourism and environment, and special awards like Best in Swimsuit and Best in Evening Gown celebrating poise and performance. The Miss Ilocos Sur 2026 Coronation Night recorded 1.7 million views, with online publicity materials reaching up to 855,742 individuals online.


 

Across festival grounds, eighteen municipalities raised their festival archs—towering artworks of wood, craft, and symbolism—with Alilem, Burgos, and Suyo earning top honors for their stunning cultural gateways. The Tribute to Elderlies 2026 then shifted the mood to gratitude, as the province honored its senior citizens, recognized ten distinguished elders, and celebrated tradition-keepers through a cultural dance competition won by Santa.

Meanwhile, the youth lit up the stage in the Street Dance and Showdown Competition, where San Juan reclaimed the championship while Vigan City and Candon City claimed the 2nd and 3rd place respectively. The Showdown Competition was also enjoined by guest artists Maris Racal and Paul Salas.. Gen Z-arzuela brought theater to life with young ensembles updating zarzuela with modern twists, with PPSK from the Municipality of Sta. Cruz, Kayaw Teatro, and Talento Likha leading the winners and individual acting awards highlighting raw talent.

While the Foam Fest: Run and Rave pulled in around 15,000 runners, dancers, and revelers who started the day with Zumba and foam runs and ended it under rave lights with DJs and a high-energy performance from Flow G, proving that fitness and fun make a perfect festival pair. Battle of the Bands turned the province into a live music arena, with The Puppets, Vin & Vin, and Day Ones topping their categories and multiple special awards recognizing the strength of Ilocos Sur’s homegrown music scene.

Service remained at the heart of the celebration through the ONE Ilocos Sur Health Caravan in Galimuyod, where residents received medical and dental services, free eyeglasses, medicines, assistive devices, food packs, and more—showing that true festivals uplift lives beyond the stage. Pammadayaw: Father Jose Burgos Award honored community champions in fields from education and health to arts and innovation, shining a light on quiet heroes whose work transforms everyday life.

As the 12-day festival drew to a close, a Thanksgiving Mass gathered officials, partners, performers, and citizens to reflect on a safe, meaningful, and successful celebration. Later that evening, over 30,000 people attended ONE Ilocos Sur Night, which wrapped up the festivities in spectacular fashion with performances by Arthur Nery, Adie, Yeng Constantino, FitterKarma, Earl Agustin. ISF 2026 content garnered an impressive 46.9 million views and reached 2.7 million people, reflecting the festival’s strong online presence and lasting impact across audiences. The night culminated in a dazzling fireworks display that lit up the sky—sealing the promise of more stories, more memories, and more reasons to say: Agbiag, Ilocos Sur!

2026/02/10

Your Hard Launch Worthy Drops At SM Supermalls In The Metro

2/10/2026 06:46:00 PM

 



The year is officially underway, and it’s looking good. 2026 is already taking shape through everyday moments, familiar routines, and plans that are finally happening.

This is no quiet reset or a low-key start, it’s a hard launch to show up, step out, and strut through the year with confidence.

Across your most loved SM Supermalls, new lifestyle and fashion spaces are opening with firsts and fresh concepts that can easily fit into your routine, giving you more places to go, more things to try, and more reasons to be out and about.

Time to show off our best selves with the year ahead! 

Your Upgrades That Don’t Go Unnoticed

These are the upgrades people notice without you having to point them out—how you smell, how your space feels, how put-together your everyday looks.

At Bath & Body Works at Level 2, City Center of SM North EDSA, everyday scents and self-care staples fit easily into your routine. Not to mention, the White Barn section adds home fragrances and candles that can set the mood and instantly make any room feel nicer. 

Moments You’ll Put Out There

Some moments are meant to be seen, not just saved.

At Beyond Studio, the first in SM at the Centralwalk Basement of SM City Fairview, everyday moments turn into something you can actually bring out and show. Forget just posting, here's three cheers to photos you can print, frame, and actually put out there. 

Activities You’ll Show Off

These aren’t one-time trial activities. These are the ones you'll actually keep coming back too, less about being performative and more about following through, because spoilers: you'll enjoy it 

Prime Golf

Show off your athletic side this 2026. At Prime Golf–the first premium golf simulator in SM at level 5 SM Podium, you can sharpen your swing on the simulator, aim for a hole-in-one, and indulge in premium dining. 

Lulou Wellness

For 2026 and beyond, it's time to prioritize your health. Work up a sweat and flaunt a fitter, better you at Lulou Wellness–the first in SM, now opened at the 4th Level of SM Podium, a space designed for adults who take their routines seriously. 

Happiness You’ll Put On Display

Sometimes the most practical things are the ones that keep you happy.

With the first POP MART in BGC at the 2nd Level of SM Aura, collecting is something you’ll proudly commit to, smiling over trinkets you pick, unbox, and keep out for display for everyone to see.

Hard launch complete. From here on out, it’s about stepping into what works for you and letting it be seen.

As new spaces continue to open across SM Supermalls, it stays part of everyday life where errands, plans, and in-between moments already happen. There is always something new to walk into, try out, and make part of your routine.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com to see what’s new and what’s coming next. 

Get Your 2026 Craving Non-Negotiables At SM Supermalls in the Metro

2/10/2026 06:22:00 PM

 



For the new year, let’s raise the standards.

This is the year you stop making compromises when it comes to your cravings. No rushed decisions. No “this is good enough.” And more importantly, no more meals that feel like an afterthought.

SM Supermalls is starting the year by bringing in new dining spots that can transport you to a new era full of fresher concepts, bolder flavors, and better choices. Proving time and time again why it deserves to be your most beloved mall with spots that raise expectations, break routines, and make eating out feel fun again.

So before your calendar fills up with plan after plan, consider this your ultimate craving promise: to never negotiate when it comes to where and how you eat. Because if there’s one thing we’re not bringing into the year, it’s settling. 

NON-NEGOTIABLE 1: Snacks Shouldn't Feel Like A Placeholder

Snacking isn’t something you do just to get by–it’s something you do because you actually want to eat. This year, snacks have to show up with flavor, personality, and zero shortcuts. Whether it’s something cheesy, crispy, or straight-up addictive, quick bites should still feel worth the stop. 

Pizza Planet


Prepare to blast off into a galaxy of flavors at Pizza Planet, located at the Annex, Upper Ground Level of SM North EDSA. When the craving hits, cheesy and gooey is the only right answer–and this fun, playful spot delivers every time. It’s your sure fix for comfort food done right, serving an out-of-this-world experience for kids, kids at heart, and anyone who takes their pizza seriously.

Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks 

From Taiwan’s streets straight to your plate–Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks at the Foodcourt, SM City Fairview serves crispy, juicy hits you won’t want to miss. XXL Chicken, Handmade Oyster Mee Sua, and all the bold flavors. 

NON-NEGOTIABLE 2: All-in Should Mean Actually Going ALL In

All-you-can-eat only works when it actually delivers. No half-hearted spreads. No playing it safe. This year, if you’re committing to unlimited, it has to feel generous, intentional, and satisfying from the first plate to the last. 

King’s Feast Luxury Buffet by Buffet 101

Feast like royalty at King’s Feast Luxury Buffet by Buffet 101, soon to open at the 5th Level of The Block at SM North EDSA. This luxurious all-you-can-eat experience features mouthwatering local and international flavors that never skimp on quality or taste, promising a truly decadent dining adventure fit for kings and queens. 

Mo-Mo Paradise

Say “more, more!” to good food at Mo-Mo Paradise–the first in PH at the Level 3, Mega Fashion Hall of SM Megamall. When the plan is unlimited hot pot, this is the place you go straight to. Slow-simmered shabu-shabu and sukiyaki set the standard for sharing, slurping, and lingering over a proper meal. 

NON-NEGOTIABLE 3: Bold Flavors Are Not Optional

This is the year we stop dialing it down. Big flavors, strong profiles, and dishes that don’t hold back—because great meals should leave an impression. If you’re craving something with heat, depth, or attitude, subtle isn’t part of the plan. 

Siklab+

For local flavors with a twist you won’t want to miss, head on over to Siklab+ at the ground level of S Maison. This is the kind of place that resets your expectations, where Paboritong Pork Sisig, Kuhol ni Tanggol, and Kalamay sa Latik become the benchmark you compare everything else to. 

Thaiwadee

When the craving is Thai, you don’t experiment... you go straight to Thaiwadee, soon opening at the Foodcourt of SM Southmall. Their Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong stay true to that mix of heat, tang, depth, and all that you’re looking for when you’re not in the mood to compromise. 

Royal Indian Curry House Bistro

Satisfy your curry cravings at Royal Indian Curry House Bistro soon to open on the 5th Level of The Block at SM North EDSA. When you’re in the mood for Indian food, bold flavor and real spice aren’t optional—and this is where you go for it. From their rich Murgh Makhani to their fragrant Hyderabadi Biryani, every dish hits exactly the way it should. 

NON-NEGOTIABLE 4: Eating Healthy Should Never Be Boring

Healthy doesn’t mean boring, and it definitely shouldn’t feel like a compromise. With the first Salady in PH at the Level 5 of the Fashion Hall in SM Megamall, choosing lighter meals no longer feels like you’re missing out. 

NON-NEGOTIABLE 5: Coffee Stops Should Actually Feel Like A Pause Worth Taking

Coffee isn’t just about the drink, it’s about slowing down, sitting longer than planned, and pairing it with something you’ll still think about later. Cafe Kulture brings that energy to the Level 3, South MOA Sky of SM Mall of Asia, turning coffee and pastries into a moment, not just a routine.

The standards are set, so let your cravings do the rest.

You don’t need a plan for this part, you’ll know when you’re hungry. And when your craving finally calls, your favorite SM Supermalls has already answered with more new spaces, new names, and better food options than ever.

No overthinking, no settling. Just choosing what feels right in the moment, and knowing there’s always something new waiting the next time you come back.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates 

SM Celebrates National Autism Consciousness Week with great strides in true inclusion

2/10/2026 06:09:00 PM

 



SM Supermalls enters its new era as a truly inclusive Mall for All with ground-breaking milestones launched during this year's National Autism Consciousness Week (NACW).

Through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares, SM celebrated acceptance and appreciation with nationwide efforts that aimed to elevate the mall-going experience of Filipinos on the autism spectrum in accommodating spaces built to be loved.

"This year's celebration of the NACW is a great step forward for SM Supermalls as we hosted 'Lights Up, Sounds Down' (LUSD) and opened the very first 'SM Sensory Lab'--the country's only dedicated mall space for people with sensory processing challenges," said Steven Tan, SM Supermalls President. "On top of our year-long programs to uphold inclusivity across all malls, these milestones echo our ultimate desire of ensuring every single customer finds their most loved space at SM."

SM Sensory Lab: An innovation in accommodating mall spaces

Crowning the celebration was SM's launch of a ground-breaking innovative space designed to serve children and adults experiencing sensory processing challenges. In partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), and with the support of the Autism Society Philippines, the SM Sensory Lab was officially opened in SM Mall of Asia as the country's first-ever calming corner.

"Opening the SM Sensory Lab was a natural next step in our relentless pursuit of making our malls truly inclusive. We collaborated closely with the DSWD, NCDA and Autism Society Philippines to ensure we were making all the right considerations for something that's never been done before," said Tan.

With soft lighting, calming seating, and sensory-friendly features, the SM Sensory Lab brought accessibility into everyday mall life — showing that inclusion goes beyond awareness and is rooted in thoughtful design and lived experience. The space was built to accommodate a total of 10 people to give persons with sensory processing challenges and their guardian enough space to feel at ease.


Enhanced through the SM Malls Online App, customers who may need the space simply have to scan a QR code through the app to use the space completely free of charge.

Lights up, Sounds Down: Specialized events bringing families together 

At the heart of the week’s activities was also Lights Up, Sounds Down — sensory-friendly movie screenings designed to remove common barriers that make traditional cinema settings overwhelming. In partnership with SM Cinema, the series of screenings was tailored specifically for the ease and comfort of customers on the autism spectrum. Across selected malls, families were welcomed into theatres with adjusted lighting and reduced sound levels, creating an environment that fostered comfort, joy, and shared experience. 

"Something as simple as going to the cinema can be a stressful experience not just for people on the spectrum but for their families as well. Through this effort SM intentionally enhanced an accommodating movie-going experience through SM Cinemas so people with autism and their families can finally watch a film in a movie house together," said Tan. 


When SM Supermalls first hosted LUSD, the initiative was a one-mall event. Now, the effort has grown to accommodate more than 5,000 participants with their families in screenings spanning multiple malls across the Philippines. This year, two new malls expanded the reach of the event with SM City BF Paranaque and SM City Butuan joining the network of SM Supermalls hosting their own screenings.

Additionally, inclusivity measures are implemented consistently nationwide through SM Cares. Information campaigns empower empathy and greater acceptance of individuals with autism. Mall front-liners like security guards, mall tenants, and mall operations are also trained and given refresher courses on how to support customers on the spectrum.

“Being an inclusive mall isn’t just a one-week observance,” said Tan. “Our efforts for this celebration are reinforced by our strengthened resolve to continually ensure every SM Supermall in the country empowers its people and surrounding communities to be accepting, appreciative and accommodating to our customers regardless of their needs.”  

Strong MSME Engagement Sets the Stage for SM Supermalls’ 2026 Programs

2/10/2026 05:50:00 PM

 


Under the SM for MSMEs program, MSME Hub owners Alamanga and Rainbow Scoops bring locally made flavors and proudly Filipino products closer to the community—proof that when small businesses are given the right platform, they grow and thrive.


Building on strong MSME momentum in 2025, SM Supermalls is entering 2026 with a renewed and sharped focus on empowering Filipino entrepreneurs, leveraging its nationwide mall network to create tangible growth opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). 

Through its SM for MSMEs program, SM Supermalls empowered 920 new MSMEs and start-ups in 2025, with nearly 10% successfully transitioning into regular mall tenants through kiosks, counters, or in-line stores nationwide. Since its enhanced rollout in March 2024, the program has supported 2,288 unique MSMEs, providing real-world platforms where entrepreneurs can test, refine, and scale their businesses.

In 2025 alone, 28,761 MSME booth activations were mounted nationwide, driven by a growing consumer demand for locally made, experience-led products across food and beverage, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle categories.

Honoring MSME Excellence


The annual SM for MSMEs Wall of Champions recognized outstanding MSME awardees and finalists whose businesses demonstrated exemplified resilience, innovation, and community impact—serving as a tribute to Filipino entrepreneurship and its vital role in nation-building.

“The private sector has a role to play in enabling the future growth of the MSME sector,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Supporting the grassroots economy is a long-term commitment we intend to uphold.” 

2025 MSME awardees and finalists gathered at the SM for MSMEs Wall of Champions with executives from SM Supermalls and the Department of Trade and Industry, celebrating excellence, resilience, and community impact. 

“SM is like a big brother to smaller businesses like us,” said Euclid S. Cezar, President and CEO of Famous Belgian Waffle and a 2025 Medium Enterprise finalist. “Being recognized motivates us to expand, innovate, and bring our products to more communities.”

Nation-Building Through Partnerships

From learning summits and curated markets to large scale trade fairs, SM Supermalls worked closely with key partners including the Department of Trade and Industry, Go Negosyo, media organizations, trade fair organizers, and MSME exhibitors to deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for entrepreneurs nationwide. 

 

  Supermalls spotlight the Philippine coconut industry as MSMEs take centerstage—local entrepreneurs proudly showcasing coconut-based products crafted by Filipino hands.

 

PHOTO: (L–R) Cong TV, Viy Cortez, Ivy Cortez, and Rolly Cortez joined MSMEs and mallgoers during the VIYLine MSME Caravan at SM City Santa Rosa. MID PHOTO: During the VIYLine MSME Caravan opening at SM City Santa Rosa, Cong TV surprised the crowd by revealing himself onstage after posing as a cameraman. RIGHT PHOTO: Influencers and entrepreneur-creators met fans and shoppers during the VIYLine MSME Caravan at SM City Santa Rosa, bringing digital communities into real-world marketplaces.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry, MSMEs account for 99.63% of businesses and 66.58% of total employment in the Philippines, underscoring their critical role as the backbone of the national economy.

Major 2025 highlights included the DTI National Food Fair, Negros Trade Fair, Women Strong Trade Fair by WomenBizPH, VIYLine MSME Caravan, and the Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025, which energized the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall with mentorship sessions and business insights, highlighted by Francis Kong’s talk, “Now and Next: The Trends in Business for MSMEs.” 


The Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025 energized the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall last July 19, bringing together entrepreneurs and mentors for inspiring talks, mentorship, and growth opportunities—highlighted by Francis Kong’s session, “Now and Next: The Trends in Business for MSMEs.”

Expanding Opportunities Beyond Metro Manila

Leveraging its nationwide footprint, SM Supermalls expanded regional trade fairs and themed marketplaces across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, bringing high-visibility platforms closer to local communities and advancing more inclusive, region-led growth. 


The Negros Trade Fair opening day at SMX Aura drew crowds eager to experience Negrense delicacies, craftsmanship, and heritage products. 


Women-led enterprises showcased proudly Filipino products at the Women Strong Trade Fair at SM Megamall, championing collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth. Kicking Off 2026 With Strong MSME Partnerships

To start 2026, SM Supermalls—together with government agencies, media partners, and trade fair organizers, will host and support a new slate of MSM focused events. 

DTI Region IV-A Coco Festival Food Fair January 14–20, 2026 | SM City San Pablo Featuring coconut-based products and local delicacies from MSMEs in Region IV-A. 

Philstar Nakakalokal Bazaar January 16–18| SM Seaside City Cebu Showcasing homegrown food, fashion, crafts, and lifestyle brands from the Visayas and the Cordillera region, highlighting locally made MSME products.

The Silk Events Bazaar (upcoming) January 28–February 10, 2026 | SM La Union A curated lifestyle and artisan market offering MSMEs extended exposure in a tourism-driven destination.

As SM Supermalls moves into 2026, SM for MSMEs continues to evolve as a scalable growth platform—transforming participation into opportunity, and opportunity into sustainable enterprise for Filipino entrepreneurs nationwide.  

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About me
Hi!, This is Marco a.k.a. Toto Blogger and Publisher. I created this blog to provide stories, personal experiences, entertainment, and insights on products I like. I'm here to share and inform you (readers) on things about music, movie, food, travel, and events.

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