SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime), a leader in sustainability efforts in the Philippines, has consistently demonstrated its dedication to environmental responsibility and resilient infrastructure. From implementing water recycling systems and energy-efficient technologies to integrating renewable energy and waste management programs, sustainability has been at the core of its operations. This commitment was highlighted during the recent Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Office of Civil Defense. At the event, Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee, stressed the importance of resilience in urban areas and the need for innovation and collaboration across sectors to drive sustainable development in the country.

The Philippines is highly vulnerable to natural hazards, especially tropical cyclones and typhoons, making disaster risk management (DRM) and resilient infrastructure crucial. SM Prime employs a hydrological survey approach in building locations to determine flood susceptibility.

The wait is finally over! Warabimochi Kamakura, the internationally acclaimed Japanese dessert brand, has officially opened at Level 3 of SM Megamall’s Mega Fashion Hall. Famous for its soft, melt-in-your-mouth treats, this viral sensation is the newest addition to SM Supermalls’ legacy as the #HomeOfFirsts, offering Filipino food lovers unique first-to-market brands and exceptional culinary experiences.

A Taste Fit for Royalty

Once a delicacy reserved for Japanese royalty, warabimochi has been reimagined by Warabimochi Kamakura into a global phenomenon. Crafted with a secret recipe and premium ingredients, their signature warabimochi boasts a delicate, jelly-like texture that dissolves blissfully in your mouth. Available in Kinako (roasted soybean flour) and Matcha, each serving is paired with a luscious Kuromitsu syrup that elevates the flavor.

But the experience doesn’t end there—Warabimochi Kamakura is also famous for its warabimochi drinks, a modern twist on the classic dessert. These refreshing beverages come packed with chewy warabimochi pieces in flavors like Matcha, Hojicha, Strawberry, Coffee, and the zesty Matcha Lemonade. Don’t miss out on their limited-edition seasonal flavors, with the first to be launched this Valentine's Day, which are always worth the wait!

A Global Sensation Lands in Manila

With over 65 stores across Japan and a growing presence in foodie destinations like South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, USA, Australia and China, Warabimochi Kamakura has captured the hearts of dessert lovers around the world. Known for its viral appeal and signature taste, it’s no surprise that the brand has become synonymous with long lines and eager customers. Now, as part of SM Supermalls’ #HomeOfFirsts, SM Megamall is proud to be the exclusive Philippine destination where you can experience this sweet sensation firsthand.

Discover What’s New at SM Megamall

SM Supermalls takes pride in being the #HomeOfFirsts—bringing you the best in world-class dining, first-to-market brands, and groundbreaking experiences that redefine what it means to have it all. Warabimochi Kamakura’s arrival at SM Megamall expands the mall’s roster of brands offering Filipino mallgoers unforgettable experiences that both inspire and connect communities. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the world-renowned Japanese dessert phenomenon—come visit and be part of this sweet sensation!

Stay connected! Follow @kamakura_philippines on Instagram for updates, exclusive content, and sneak peeks. For more sweet discoveries and exciting first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

 

It's for them, "Lights Up, Sounds Down" SM offers inclusive movie experience for autism community

In celebration of National Autism Consciousness Week, SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines (ASP), and GMA Pictures came together to hold a special sensory-friendly screening of the award-winning film "Firefly" on January 17, 2025. The event brought together more than 2,000 participants across 10 SM malls, giving children on the autism spectrum and their families a chance to enjoy a heartwarming and inclusive movie experience.

"Tuwing pumapasok kami sa mga SM malls, damang-dama namin acceptance, accomodation, and appreciation. It is the norm here," said Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Chair Emerita Dang Uy Koe.

SM Podium adds to its fine dining options with the opening of Lusso by Margarita Forés—the first Margarita Signature restaurant from the acclaimed chef and restaurateur to join SM’s portfolio. Perfect for the festive season, Lusso offers an elegant venue for holiday celebrations, romantic dinners, or quiet moments with loved ones.

 

Imagine a world where solar power drives progress, harnessing the sun as the ultimate energy source. With climate change accelerating due to fossil fuel reliance, the need for sustainable alternatives has never been greater. The Philippines, blessed with abundant sunlight, holds immense potential to tap into solar energy and contribute to global climate solutions. In 2024, Manila recorded approximately 4,440 hours of daylight, highlighting a vast opportunity for renewable energy production.

Spanning 67 hectares along the scenic Manila Bay, the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex stands as a testament to SM Prime Holdings' dedication to integrating technology and innovation into its projects, ensuring disaster resilience and prioritizing community safety.

Initially conceived as a pioneering mixed-use development on reclaimed land spearheaded by the Philippine government, it has evolved into a benchmark of safety and stability, fulfilling the vision of founder Henry Sy, Sr., who aspired to create “a destination that brings joy and opportunities to millions.”

Expanding on his father’s vision, Hans Sy, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman and co-chair of ARISE Philippines under the United Nations Office of Disaster Risk Resilience (UNDRR), emphasizes the importance of creating resilient, sustainable spaces that prioritize both safety and community well-being.

"We believe that safety is the cornerstone of thriving communities," Mr. Sy states. In affirmation of this belief, he stands as the first Filipino elected to the UNDRR ARISE Global Board.

Launched in 2015, ARISE Philippines is the country’s 157-member-strong premier private sector alliance united by a shared vision of a resilient and prosperous future. The organization, the first country network established by the UNDRR, aims to minimize disaster-related loss of life, ensure investments and assets are risk-informed, and build infrastructure capable of withstanding both natural and man-made hazards.

SM Prime’s commitment to resilience is evident in the very design of the MOA Complex, which incorporates cutting-edge disaster resilience features to protect against the unique challenges posed by its coastal location.

Before construction began, SM Prime engaged the expertise of Jan de Nul, a renowned Belgian coastal development company. Their extensive research and studies ensured the viability of the project, taking into account the complex interplay of land and sea. To create a resilient structure, the company conducted risk reviews in which the following components are incorporated: Identify, analyze, plan, mitigate, and monitor. This meticulous pre-engineering phase laid the groundwork for a structure, completed in 2006, that was capable of withstanding the test of time and nature.

One of the key challenges addressed was soil erosion. To combat this, the team implemented a sophisticated system of wick drains. These drains act as pathways for pore water in soft, compressible soil, effectively preventing erosion and ensuring the stability of the land. This technology, while more costly than traditional methods, provides a significantly higher degree of protection, particularly against liquefaction during seismic events.

The threat of ground liquefaction, a phenomenon where soil loses its strength and behaves like a liquid during earthquakes, was also mitigated through innovative foundation design. Driven and bored piles, combined with precise excavation methods, provide the complex with robust resistance against liquefaction and seismic activity.

In a groundbreaking collaboration, LG Philippines and National Artist for Visual Arts Benedicto “BenCab” Reyes Cabrera have joined forces to bring advanced OLED technology to the BenCab Museum in Tuba, Benguet. This partnership redefines how art is experienced, introducing a cutting-edge digital platform for Filipino creativity.

LG Electronics (LG) has once again secured its position in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) for the thirteenth consecutive year. The DJSI World ranks the top 10 percent of the largest 2,500 global companies based on their economic, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, serving as a critical benchmark for investors assessing corporate sustainability.

Notably, LG earned the highest overall score in the Leisure Equipment & Products and Consumer Electronics industry category. Furthermore, it remains the only South Korean company to be included in this category for 13 years running.

Additionally, LG has been included in the DJSI Asia Pacific (top 20 percent of the 600 largest companies in the Asia-Pacific region) and DJSI Korea (top 30 percent of the 200 largest companies in Korea) for 15 and 16 consecutive years, respectively.

LG received high evaluations across various ESG areas, including environmental policy and management, human rights management, human resource management, customer relations, supply chain management and product responsibility management.

Under the ESG management vision of Better Life for All, LG is carrying out various activities with the strategy of 3C for the planet (Carbon neutrality, Circularity, and Clean technology) and 3D for people (Decent workplace, Diversity & inclusion, and Design for all).

To achieve its 3C goals for the planet, LG has set ambitious targets, including reaching carbon neutrality in its product manufacturing process by 2030 and transitioning to 100 percent renewable energy by 2050.

Specifically, LG plans to reduce direct greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1) and indirect greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 2) in the product production stage by 54.6 percent compared to 2017 levels. This will be accomplished through process improvements, the introduction of energy-saving technologies and the use of renewable energy. Notably, LG was the first company in the home appliance industry to obtain UN carbon credits in 2015.

In addition, LG is focused on reducing the unit greenhouse gas emissions of its seven major product groups (TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, home and system air conditioners, and monitors) by 20 percent compared to 2020 levels during the product use stage (Scope 3). This commitment involves various activities aimed at improving the energy efficiency of individual products, thereby reducing overall carbon emissions.

As a member of the UN Global Compact and the Responsible Business Alliance, LG complies with international human rights and labor standards and is enhancing its human rights management processes to respond to strengthening global ESG-related legislation.

In the ESG evaluation and rating announcement results published by the Korea Corporate Governance Service this year, LG received an overall A grade for four consecutive years. LG also received an A grade for five consecutive years in the ESG evaluation conducted by the global ESG evaluation agency Morgan Stanley Capital International, gaining recognition for its ESG management performance from credible domestic and international institutions.

Every new year, we hear it time and again: This year will be different.

It’s a chance to quit those bad habits, tackle long-standing goals, and build a healthier future. With each January, we’re inspired by the promise of a fresh start—an ideal time to stop smoking, adopt cleaner habits, and finally prioritize well-being.

Yet, more often than not, these resolutions fizzle out. Plans that feel achievable in the moment tend to fade, proving unsustainable or simply out of reach. The truth is, waiting for the perfect time often leads to wasted opportunities.

That’s why investing in your health now is the best course of action. Seize this moment to make lasting changes, because the future you’re working toward deserves more than a fleeting resolution. It's about building the foundation for a healthier, stronger life—not just for this year, but for all the years to come.

Ever thought about seeing the world from a whole new angle? The vivo X200 Pro lets you do just that by turning everyday moments into something extraordinary through macro photography.

Whether you dream of becoming a professional photographer or simply enjoy snapping shots for fun, there’s something truly captivating about zooming in on life’s tiny details. Macro photography offers an exciting gateway into this world, revealing beauty you might never have noticed before.

This approach isn’t just about capturing close-ups—it teaches patience, sharpens your attention to detail, and sparks creativity. Plus, it opens your eyes to the often-overlooked marvels around you, making everyday life feel a little more magical.

The best part? The vivo X200 Pro features a powerful camera system that will be your companion on this fun photography journey as you open your eyes to the world's hidden wonders!

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ZEISS-powered excellence in every shot

Co-engineered with ZEISS, the vivo X200 Pro redefines what you can expect from smartphone photography and more!

Equipped with industry's highest 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera, the vivo X200 Pro offers five innovative telephoto capabilities, including the Telephoto Macro mode, designed to capture intricate details with stunning clarity.

While lenses of this caliber usually come at a premium, the collaboration between vivo and ZEISS has made these specialized lenses and superior optics accessible to everyday consumers.