Kwento Ni Toto

2025/07/16

Can Fiction Shape Perception? ‘Sins of the Father’ and the Rise of Ascendra International

Marco Polo Demo 7/16/2025 07:14:00 AM

A Teleserye, a Scandal, and a Startup—What Could Possibly Go Wrong?

Every now and then, a primetime drama mirrors real-life issues so closely that it doesn’t just entertain, it influences how people think and feel about certain industries. This is what ABS-CBN’s new teleserye Sins of the Father is beginning to stir up in the minds of Filipino audiences. The gripping series, which revolves around investment fraud, networking schemes, and the dark side of quick wealth, comes at an interesting time—just as a new network marketing company, Ascendra International, is beginning to take root in the Philippines.

With its official soft launch on June 30 in Mandaluyong City, Ascendra introduced itself as a new breed of network marketing firm: one that prioritizes financial empowerment, affordable non-life insurance, and ethical entrepreneurship. But as viewers binge through the dramatic unraveling of Sins of the Father, some can't help but draw parallels, or worse, suspicions, between the show’s fictional "Yayaman Tayo Investment Fund" and real-world networking ventures, especially those that are just starting out.

When Fiction Casts a Shadow on Fact

In Sins of the Father, Gerald Anderson plays Samuel Trinidad, a principled man who becomes the unwilling heir to a financial scam masterminded by his estranged father, portrayed by John Arcilla. The narrative is filled with common red flags of fraudulent schemes: charismatic leaders, too-good-to-be-true promises, and investors left with empty pockets.

This portrayal, while fictional, can unintentionally cast a long shadow on real businesses operating in similar industries. And that’s where Ascendra International finds itself at a crossroads.

A Fresh Start That Risks Being Misread

Ascendra is no stranger to the skepticism often associated with network marketing. Despite having respected and experienced leaders like CEO Engr. Jurgen Daniel Gonzales and CSO Joseph Lim, the company’s entry into the financial services sector arrives during a time when public trust is fragile.

The popularity of Sins of the Father could magnify that fragility. The teleserye may lead some to conflate Ascendra’s legitimate business model with the very scams the show warns against. After all, the buzzwords, “networking,” “financial freedom,” “passive income”, are shared across both narratives, albeit in very different contexts.

The Positive Side: Awareness and Opportunity

On the flip side, the spotlight from Sins of the Father might actually help Ascendra, if navigated carefully. The show is raising public awareness about red flags in financial dealings. This gives Ascendra a unique opportunity to differentiate itself from scam-laden models by highlighting its transparency, AI-driven tools, and insurance-focused platform.

Ascendra’s emphasis on low-cost, need-based insurance products and structured mentorship for its agents sets it apart from the hype-driven, recruit-heavy strategies portrayed in the show. Its business model leans toward product-first, not recruit-first, and that may resonate more deeply now that audiences are more critical and cautious.

The Risk: Guilt by Association

Still, perception is a powerful thing. Even the most well-intentioned startups can fall victim to public misjudgment, especially in a culture shaped by teleseryes, viral news, and internet speculation. With Sins of the Father painting a dramatic picture of financial betrayal under the guise of investment brilliance, Ascendra may find itself needing to clarify that it is not part of a get-rich-quick narrative.

The company must work twice as hard to emphasize the difference between ethical network marketing and deceptive financial schemes. Consistent messaging, transparent operations, and community engagement will be critical in building trust, especially among Filipinos who have seen friends or relatives fall victim to investment fraud in the past.

Why Reputation Management Matters More Than Ever

As the drama unfolds in the teleserye, complete with crypto wallets, sudden deaths, and billions in stolen funds, real companies like Ascendra are left to manage the aftermath in public perception. The responsibility lies in proving through action that not all networking companies are the same.

CEO Engr. Gonzales and his team must continue to educate the public about how Ascendra’s model works, what safeguards are in place, and how individuals can truly benefit from entrepreneurship grounded in real value, not promises.

Truth Over Drama

The timing may be challenging, but it also presents a chance for real change. If Ascendra can rise above the noise and prove itself through transparency, education, and results, it won’t just weather the teleserye storm, it may lead the industry toward a new era of ethical, purpose-driven network marketing.

If you’re curious about how network marketing can empower, not exploit, Filipinos, now’s the time to ask questions, seek transparency, and choose wisely. Visit Ascendra International’s official platforms, attend a training session, or talk to a partner to see the difference for yourself. In an age of information and imagination, it's truth, and not just television, that should guide your financial future.

2025/07/15

updates

Anne, Joshua, and Carlo Star in PH Remake of ‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’

Marco Polo Demo 7/15/2025 09:13:00 PM

Anne Curtis, Joshua Garcia, and Carlo Aquino headline the Philippine adaptation of the award-winning Korean drama It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, set to premiere July 21 on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, and TV5. The series will stream in advance on Netflix starting July 18, and on iWant on July 19.

The local remake centers on Patpat (Garcia), a psychiatric ward caregiver who has spent most of his life looking after his older brother Matmat (Aquino), a man living with autism. Their routine is disrupted when they meet Mia (Curtis), a successful yet emotionally distant children’s book author known for her cold and eccentric demeanor.

As their lives intertwine, the three confront childhood trauma and emotional wounds, setting them on a path toward healing, self-discovery, and love.

Reimagined through a Filipino lens, the series aims to deliver a heartfelt exploration of mental health, emotional resilience, and the enduring strength of love.

“This is a universal story that everyone would be able to relate to. It’s a healing story and it’s a beautiful journey of love. And at the end of the day, every Filipino, whether it’s family or friends, will be able to relate to the story of healing, pain, and love,” said Anne, who plays the lead character Mia Hernandez, during the series’ mediacon last Monday (June 30).

Director Mae Cruz-Alviar also explained the show's approach in tackling mental health issues for Filipino audiences.

“Kailangan natin i-ayon sa pagtanggap ng audience sa ganitong talakayan tungkol sa mental health. Kasi hindi ganun kalaki ang awareness, so kailangan namin i-handle na ‘wag biglaan ‘yung audience, na ‘wag sila ma-overwhelm. So there is careful handling in telling the story but also staying true to the core of the show,” she shared.

Joshua related how he identified with his character in the series. “Nakaka-relate ako sa kanya kasi parehas kaming mapagmahal na kapatid at nangungulila sa nanay. Pati ‘yung pagka-burned out ng character ko, naramdaman ko rin.”

Meanwhile, Carlo, who plays the character of Matmat Gonzales, underwent immersions in special schools for persons with different levels of autism and several intensive workshops.

Completing the stellar cast are Rio Locsin, Bobot Mortiz, Michael De Mesa, Maricel Laxa, Agot Isidro, Enchong Dee, Kaori Oinuma, Bodjie Pascua, Ana Abad Santos, Sharmaine Suarez, Xyriel Manabat, Louise Abuel, Francis Magundayao, Alora Sasam, Alyssa Muhlach, Bianca De Vera, Aljon Mendoza, and Mark Oblea. “It’s Okay To Not Be Okay” is led by directors Mae Cruz-Alviar and Raymond Ocampo, creative producer Henry Quitain, and Star Creatives business unit head Des M. De Guzman.

Catch the most-awaited Philippine adaptation of “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” starting July 21 on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, and TV5, weeknights at 8:45 PM. Watch it in advance on Netflix (July 18) and iWant (July 19).

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok, or visit corporate.abs-cbn.com/newsroom/news-releases.

2025/07/12

updates

Ascendra International Launches with a Mission to Redefine Network Marketing in the Philippines

Marco Polo Demo 7/12/2025 12:05:00 PM

A new chapter in the Philippine financial and network marketing landscape officially began on June 30 with the soft launch of Ascendra International, a rising company that aims to disrupt traditional multi-level marketing by focusing on affordable non-life insurance products and genuine financial empowerment.

Held at the 6th Floor of the Global Link Center in Mandaluyong, the launch event gathered partners, guests, and industry veterans to witness what the company describes as a “values-driven evolution” in the world of network marketing.

A Business With Purpose

At the heart of Ascendra’s business model is a simple but powerful mission: to make insurance and financial protection accessible to every Filipino, regardless of social or economic background. With a sharp focus on accident and health protection products, Ascendra offers coverage that is not only affordable, but also relevant to the everyday needs of Filipinos.

But beyond offering products, Ascendra is also opening doors to entrepreneurship. Through its platform, individuals can start their own insurance businesses with minimal capital and access to guided mentorship, free training, and digital tools powered by automation and artificial intelligence.

“Ascendra means ‘to rise,’ and that’s exactly what we intend to help others do,” said CEO Engr. Jurgen Daniel Gonzales, a 30-year veteran in multi-level marketing. “We are not just building a company—we are reshaping an entire industry.”

Backed by Experience, Driven by Values

Ascendra International is led by a team of industry experts with proven track records in direct selling and entrepreneurial development:

CEO Engr. Jurgen Daniel Gonzales, one of the country’s most respected MLM trainers with three decades of experience.
Chief Strategy Officer Joseph Lim, recognized by Business For Home as a top global networker.
Chief of Operations Miko Imson, an international training innovator passionate about empowering teams.
Chief Financial Officer Francesca Fugen, a serial entrepreneur and advocate for women and mental health.

Together, the leadership team represents decades of success from inside the country’s top MLM organizations. But this time, they’re charting a new path—one that promotes sustainability, transparency, and true ownership.

“Our ecosystem is designed not just for profit, but for purpose,” said CSO Joseph Lim. “We’re here to empower individuals to uplift others, create legacies, and build businesses with integrity.”

A Modern Take on Network Marketing

Unlike traditional network marketing companies that emphasize recruitment and hype, Ascendra champions a product-first, tech-powered model. Its platform is built to support long-term growth through real education, smart automation, and ethical practices.

The company’s AI-driven tools aim to reduce the guesswork for new entrepreneurs, helping them focus on growth and customer care rather than complex systems. This approach is designed to attract a new wave of Filipino entrepreneurs who want meaningful work and sustainable income—not just promises.

More Than a Company, A Movement

Ascendra International enters the market not just as a company, but as a movement for ethical entrepreneurship and inclusive financial empowerment. As the country faces growing demand for accessible insurance and sustainable income opportunities, the company is poised to meet that need head-on.

Their goal is clear: to raise the standard of what network marketing can be in today’s world—ethical, inclusive, and driven by real value.

About Ascendra International

Ascendra International is a next-generation network marketing company that specializes in distributing affordable non-life insurance products and financial services. With a strong foundation in ethics, innovation, and product-focused entrepreneurship, Ascendra equips individuals with the tools and training to build their own businesses. The company integrates smart automation and AI-powered platforms to streamline operations, promote transparency, and provide real ownership opportunities.

As it officially enters the market, Ascendra International is setting its sights on long-term impact—rising boldly, ethically, and with experience at the helm.

updates

Enjoy Dining Delights at The Manila Hotel This July

Marco Polo Demo 7/12/2025 11:48:00 AM

This July, The Manila Hotel is serving up a feast for the senses with a variety of flavorful dining experiences at its signature restaurants. With a variety of menu offerings to create a delightful dining experience for both loyal patrons and curious foodies.

Guests can look forward to a month-long celebration of taste, tradition, and top-tier hospitality—something only The Manila Hotel can deliver with timeless charm.

And as Kwento Ni Toto would typically say, if you're craving more than just a meal, take a time to visit The Manila Hotel for bite of Historical Kwento (Story).

Dubai Pistachio Chocolate

Fresh Offerings at the Lobby Lounge and Tap Room

In celebration of World Chocolate Day, the Lobby Lounge presents a mouthwatering Chocolate Afternoon Tea available from July 7 to 13, between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Guests can delight in an elegant array of chocolate-infused bites including Chocolate Scones with Raspberry Syrup, Chocolate Bibingka, Tart au Chocolate, Pralines, Chocolate Madeleine, Banana Chocolate Turon, Tablea Chicken Adobo Sandwich, and Eggplant-Chocolate Napoleon. Each set is served with a choice of freshly brewed coffee, premium tea, or the hotel’s signature hot chocolate.

Also available throughout July is the Dark and Stormy cocktail, a bold and refreshing blend of rum, ginger beer, and lime—perfect for sipping through the rainy season.

Bastille Day at the Champagne Room

Celebrate Bastille Day with a taste of France at the Champagne Room from July 9 to 15. A specially curated French set menu, available for both lunch and dinner, includes Country Pork Terrine, Onion-Wild Mushroom Soup, Lamb Rack in Herb Crumble, Ratatouille, Brie de Meaux, Cherry Clafoutis, French Macarons, and a choice of coffee of tea. This menu is priced at Php 4,688 nett per person.

Chocolate Afternoon Tea

Delicatessen Specials

Discover new favorites at the Delicatessen, featuring freshly baked delights and decadent sweets. Enjoy the soft, pillowy Brioche and Shokupan ideal for breakfast or gourmet sandwiches. For a luxurious bite, try the Dubai Pistachio Chocolate, a decadent fusion of pistachios and fine chocolate.

Vegan-Friendly Offers

The Manila Hotel also unveils a lineup of vegan offerings, catering to plant-based lifestyles and wellness-conscious guests. At the Lobby Lounge, the Vegan Burger featuring a hearty Portobello mushroom patty served in a vegan bun, accompanied by sweet potato fries. This dish is available at a special rate of Php 600 nett per order.

Vegan Portobello Mushroom Burger

The Champagne Room presents an elegant Vegan Degustation Menu that includes Duo of Chickpea Purée and Eggplant Salad with Tortilla Chips, Tuscan White Bean Soup with Vegetables and Kale, Mixed Mushroom Potato Ravioli, Vegetable Sofrito sautéed in Truffle Oil and Herbs, Green Mango Sorbet, Strudel of sautéed Vegetables and Tofu in Curry Cream Sauce, and fresh seasonal fruits.

Over at the Delicatessen, guests can also enjoy the Vegan Chocolate Almond Cake, a rich and moist dessert made without dairy or eggs, ideal for health-conscious chocolate lovers.

Vegan Chocolate Almond Cake

Mid-Autumn Festival Early Bird Offer

To celebrate the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival, The Manila Hotel offers and exclusive early bird offer on its Mooncake Box of Four. Guests can enjoy 30% off the regular price of Php 3,888 nett, now available at Php 2,721.60 nett per order, valid until September 15. Each set is crafted with the finest ingredients and presented in an elegant commemorative box that pays tribute to the iconic façade of The Manila Hotel, making it a delectable gift and a timeless keepsake. Pick-up of orders starts on September 16. The early bird offer is subject to terms and conditions. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-229154 Series of 2025.

For more information, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

2025/07/07

updates

Blue Box by Sabon Express Helps Cut Waste, Save Money for Filipino Homes

Toto 7/07/2025 01:48:00 AM

In a time when single-use plastics remain a growing concern and household budgets continue to tighten, Sabon Express, a proudly local brand led by CEO and Founder Mellany Zambrano, has introduced a breakthrough innovation that directly addresses both problems, the Blue Box.

More than just a soap-dispensing machine, the Blue Box is an automated refilling station for laundry detergent, dishwashing liquid, and fabric conditioner. Its impact reaches far beyond convenience — it offers a simple, eco-conscious solution that helps families save money while reducing plastic waste.

Reducing Waste, One Refill at a Time

The Blue Box encourages the reuse of plastic bottles by allowing customers to bring their own containers and refill household cleaning products for as low as ₱5, ₱10, or ₱20, using coins, both old and new.

“In the Philippines, sachet culture has become the norm. But that convenience comes at a cost,” said Zambrano. “We created the Blue Box to change that, to give people an easier, cheaper, and more sustainable way to buy what they need.”

This innovation comes at a time when the country generates around 60 billion plastic sachets a year, according to environmental groups. The Blue Box aims to reduce that number by promoting refill culture, one household at a time.

Empowering Everyday Filipinos

The Blue Box was officially launched during the 24th Anniversary of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Beneficiaries Association Inc. (BJMPBAI). Through a strategic partnership, Sabon Express is now offering BJMPBAI members the chance to own and operate their own Blue Box units at a discounted rate.

Fifteen units were immediately pre-ordered during the launch, with members able to access business loans to fund their new venture.

“This innovation is not just for consumers — it’s also a livelihood opportunity,” Zambrano explained. “For someone looking to start a small business with low overhead and high demand, the Blue Box is a smart and scalable option.”

A Storefront for Sustainability

By integrating the Blue Box into both physical store locations and community spaces, Sabon Express is also helping normalize the act of refilling, turning it into part of daily life. The company envisions a future where refilling is as routine as going to the market.

In addition to savings and sustainability, the Blue Box brings convenience and control to the user. With five easy steps:

1. Bring a bottle
2. Choose your product
3. Choose the amount
4. Insert coins,
5. refill and go

It offers a dignified, no-waste way to access daily essentials.

Real Change, Real Results

The Blue Box represents a triple win: for the environment, for households, and for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Environmental Impact: Reduces plastic waste by promoting bottle reuse
Economic Relief: Offers affordable access to cleaning supplies at a per-use rate
Entrepreneurship: Opens up micro-business opportunities in both rural and urban areas

Innovation can lead the way in solving everyday problems. We don’t need to look abroad for solutions, it is right here for us.

Sabon Express continues to lead the refill revolution, creating systems that work for both people and planet. With the Blue Box, a cleaner home and a cleaner future may now come from the same refill.

2025/07/05

Weekend Market

CDA Teams Up With SM Supermalls to Promote Local Cooperatives

Toto 7/05/2025 09:52:00 AM

he Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and SM Supermalls formalized a strategic partnership on July 1, 2025, through a Memorandum of Agreement signing held at the SM Supermalls headquarters. The collaboration aims to support Filipino cooperatives by providing access to SM’s high-foot-traffic mall spaces through the SM Weekend Market—a platform designed to highlight local products, promote homegrown talent, and boost Filipino entrepreneurship.

L-R: Royston A. Cabunag, Assistant Vice President and Lead for MSME and Job Fairs, Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls formalized partnership through a MOA signing with CDA Chairperson Usec. Alexander B. Raquepo and CDA Administrator Asec. Santiago S. Lim, that aims to empower Filipino cooperatives through the SM Weekend Market initiative.

The MOA was signed by Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo, CDA Chairperson, and Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls, in the presence of key officials from both institutions. “This is a historic partnership between the private and public sectors,” said Usec. Raquepo during his remarks. “We take great pride in this collaboration with SM Supermalls, which represents a powerful step forward in uplifting our micro, small and medium cooperative entrepreneurs. This model partnership will not only provide access to markets, but help elevate the economic well-being of our communities.”

Fresh, proudly Filipino produce takes the spotlight supporting local farmers and cooperatives at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Calamba.

Shoppers enjoy direct access to farm-fresh produce at the SM Weekend Market where farmers are given dedicated selling spaces in select SM Supermalls.

Local farmers showcase and sell their fresh harvest to shoppers at the SM Weekend Market, a platform by SM Supermalls that connects producers directly to consumers in high-traffic mall locations.

Under the agreement, CDA will endorse eligible cooperatives across the country to participate in the SM Weekend Market. In turn, SM Supermalls will make space available in key mall locations for a minimal fee—intended only to help cover maintenance costs. “The SM Weekend Market was born out of a simple but powerful idea — to give farmers and local producers, especially those in cooperatives, the chance to bring their goods closer to the people, in places they wouldn’t normally have access to,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations at SM Supermalls. “With CDA as our partner, we are excited to open more doors and more mall spaces to co-ops across the country. This partnership will allow more communities to thrive, more stories to be told, and more Filipino-made products to be celebrated.”

Lively displays of locally grown vegetables welcome shoppers at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Southmall.

The event marks the start of a nationwide collaboration between CDA and SM Supermalls, with more updates and market rollouts expected in the coming months.

About the SM Weekend Market

The SM Weekend Market is a community-driven initiative by SM Supermalls that gives farmers and cooperatives direct access to high-foot traffic locations, helping them sell fresh, abundant harvests quickly and sustainably. By providing accessible weekend selling spaces in designated SM mall areas, the Weekend Market connects local producers with urban shoppers — creating a win-win for both communities and consumers.

More than just a marketplace, the SM Weekend Market is a purposeful movement — empowering grassroots enterprises, boosting local food systems, and fostering deeper community connections through commerce, culture, and collaboration.

updates

SM Supermalls Introduces Bold New Firsts in CDO

Toto 7/05/2025 09:37:00 AM

In the mood for fresh seafood or a quick cup of coffee on the go? This month, new food and beverage spots are opening to serve exactly what you’re craving.

From indulgent meals to grab-and-go favorites, these new dining options offer more reasons to enjoy life’s everyday moments—because treating yourself never goes out of style.

Have a truly fulfilling day and give yourself limitless possibilities to live the good life with SM Supermalls—right here in Cagayan de Oro City.

Fresh Eats Straight from the Sea at Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant

Experience a unique dining experience with Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant—a bold new take on Filipino culinary traditions perfect for every seafood lover.

This pork-free restaurant offers flavorful dishes with a modern twist, including their signature Balangay Seafood Boil: a hearty platter of fresh seafood served in a custom-built Balangay-style boat—honoring Filipino heritage in a festive spread. Each dish is carefully plated with built-in burners, keeping the food deliciously hot and freshly cooked right at your table.

Indulge in the sea’s bounty, and experience a burst of flavor with this beachside-inspired dining escape at Level 5, SM CDO Downtown.

Coffee On-the-Go with Starbucks Drive-thru

Starbucks, one of the country’s most popular cafés, has opened its first-ever drive-thru store here in Northern Mindanao—giving our busy coffee lovers the convenience of enjoying their favorite blends and brews while on the road.

Kickstart your day with your go-to Iced Latte. Feel adventurous and try one of their seasonal signature brews. Pair your handcrafted coffee or non-coffee drink with a delicious Doughssant.

Whatever your mood or wherever you go, you can now take Starbucks with you. Whether you’re headed to work, running errands, or just exploring the city, your caffeine fix is always just a quick stop at the North Wing of SM City CDO Uptown.

Discover new ways to dine—only at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts. Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

SM Supermalls #NewEraOfFirsts

At SM Supermalls, we’re proud to lead a New Era of Firsts—bringing you first-to-market brands, groundbreaking experiences, and culinary destinations you won’t find anywhere else. From world-class dining and retail exclusives to innovative spaces that connect and inspire communities, we’re redefining what it means to have it all.

As we continue to grow, we remain committed to sustainability, community empowerment, and creating memorable moments that make every visit more meaningful. There’s always something new and exciting waiting for you at SM.

updates

SM Supermalls Boosts Urban Air Quality Through Green Infrastructure

Toto 7/05/2025 09:19:00 AM

Walking through SM Supermalls offers more than just a shopping experience—it’s a chance to enjoy scenic views, spacious arcades, and vibrant greenery. Designed with comfort and sustainability in mind, these spaces reflect SM’s ongoing commitment to green infrastructure. Beyond aesthetics, the initiative supports better air quality and promotes a healthier, more livable urban environment.

Designing for people and the planet

SM Supermalls prioritizes people-centric design, creating welcoming spaces that balance nature with modern convenience. The SM Mall of Asia’s arcades and the MOA Sky, for example, offer open, breezy walkways, encouraging leisurely strolls and even outdoor dining and entertainment. Meanwhile, SM Aura and SM North EDSA’s Sky Garden—the first in an SM mall—integrates lush vegetation and water features to reduce indoor heat, improve air quality, and create cooling effects in dense urban areas.

SM North EDSA houses the first Sky Garden in an SM mall, highlighting endemic plants and water features that bring nature onto a rooftop.

The SM MOA Sky showcases greenery and open-air spaces that promote cleaner, cooler urban living.

Championing bike-friendly cities

Beyond providing open spaces, SM Supermalls is leading bike-friendly initiatives, with over 5,000 bike parking spaces across its properties. Studies show that replacing short car trips with biking can cut carbon emissions by up to 90%, significantly reducing air pollution and its long-term impact on climate change.

Cyclists gather at SM Seaside City Cebu, championing greener, healthier urban mobility.

Bikers enjoy the convenience of secure parking as SM Supermalls champions eco-friendly transport solutions.

Greening malls with native flora

Additionally, select SM malls feature endemic plant species that enhance air quality and support local biodiversity, filtering pollutants while creating a natural habitat for urban wildlife. These green spaces are designed not just for aesthetics but to actively contribute to a healthier environment.

Making public transport more convenient

To make sustainable transport more accessible, SM Supermalls operates transport terminals that support public transportation, providing seamless connections to buses, jeepneys, and other modes of transit. These terminals encourage commuters to opt for public transport, which can significantly reduce individual carbon footprints and traffic congestion, contributing to cleaner air and more efficient urban mobility.

Powering the shift to EVs

Recognizing the need for cleaner transportation, SM Supermalls has also installed Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) in 69 malls nationwide. By providing essential infrastructure for electric vehicles, SM is helping to lower carbon emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels—a crucial step in improving urban air quality. Studies indicate that EVs produce up to 60% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles, making them a key solution for reducing pollution in crowded city centers.

Monitoring air, empowering communities

SM’s commitment to sustainability extends to air quality monitoring, ensuring that urban pollution levels are tracked and addressed. Under SM Prime Holdings, the company partnered with Quezon City to establish an air quality monitoring system that records environmental data and provides updates through a publicly accessible website. This initiative allows communities to stay informed while encouraging long-term strategies for a cleaner, healthier urban space.

SM Supermalls monitors air quality in real time, empowering communities with data for cleaner, healthier cities.

A greener future for urban living

From green roofs and bike-friendly amenities to EVCS and air quality monitoring, SM Supermalls is redefining retail spaces with a deeper environmental purpose. Every visit to an SM mall contributes to a better urban future, where sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.

40 years of building better communities

Celebrating 40 years of serving communities, SM Supermalls continues to lead as a shopping and lifestyle destination in the Philippines. True to its legacy, SM remains at the forefront of environmental sustainability through pioneering waste, water and energy innovations as well as disaster resilience initiatives.

updates

SM Cares Supports Brigada Eskwela 2025 Nationwide

Toto 7/05/2025 08:55:00 AM

SM Supermalls joined the Department of Education’s annual Brigada Eskwela initiative by mobilizing thousands of volunteers across its malls nationwide from June 9 to 13, 2025. The effort aimed to help prepare public schools for the new academic year. This year’s Brigada Eskwela carried the theme, “Nagkakaisa para sa Handa at Ligtas na Pagbabalik Eskwela.”

Driven by the spirit of bayanihan, SM employee volunteers join Brigada Eskwela to help public schools prepare for the new academic year—fostering cleaner, safer, and more welcoming spaces where students and communities can thrive.

SM employees in action—offering their hands and hearts to help schools gear up for another inspiring year of learning.

SM North EDSA volunteers sweep hallways for Brigada Eskwela—helping create clean, focused spaces where students can learn and grow.

As a long-time DepEd partner, SM Supermalls once again participated in Brigada Eskwela 2025 as part of its broader commitment to youth empowerment, environmental stewardship, and inclusive community building.

The initiative was rolled out across 75 SM Supermalls, with more than a thousand employee-volunteers working hand-in-hand with DepEd, local government units (LGUs), school representatives, and community members. It empowered community volunteers to make a tangible impact by helping schools prepare safe, clean, and inspiring learning environments.

“We are proud to be part of Brigada Eskwela again this year. Education is the cornerstone of nation-building, and through volunteerism and shared responsibility, we aim to help create safe and welcoming learning spaces for students all across the country,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

An employee volunteer from SM Center Pasig organizes learning materials as part of Brigada Eskwela efforts to support public school readiness.

With every wipe and every gesture of care, SM City Novaliches volunteers bring classrooms closer to a brighter, cleaner start.

Demonstrating hands-on commitment, an employee volunteer from SM City Baliwag carefully stacks hollow blocks—contributing to stronger school infrastructure.

Embodying the spirit of bayanihan, SM City Sorsogon employee volunteers paint school chairs with dedication—bringing new life to classrooms through Brigada Eskwela.

Employee volunteers from SM Center Ormoc paint classrooms as part of Brigada Eskwela, helping create more inspiring learning spaces where students can thrive.

An SM City Mindpro volunteer helps clean the school grounds during Brigada Eskwela—making way for brighter days and better learning.

SM employee-volunteers engaged in a wide range of preparatory activities including classroom cleaning and disinfection, repainting of walls and learning spaces, repairs of desks and chairs, and the turnover of essential learning materials. Through shared efforts, this annual initiative not only enhanced school facilities but also strengthened community ties and encouraged a culture of unity, pride, and collective responsibility for education.

The program benefited 66 public schools across the country, helping ensure that thousands of Filipino learners return to a clean, safe, and functional learning environment when classes resume.

By supporting Brigada Eskwela 2025, SM Supermalls reinforces its continued support and alignment with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, reflecting its commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable development in every community it serves.

This initiative also forms part of SM’s broader advocacy under SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, which champions programs for Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, the Environment, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth and Bike-Friendly initiatives.

For more updates on SM’s social good initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or follow @OfficialSMCares on social media.

Wedding Fair

SM Highlights Filipino MSMEs at DTI Wedding Fair in SMX Aura

Toto 7/05/2025 08:34:00 AM

Love, tradition, and local enterprise came together at the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025, held from June 27 to 29 at the SMX Convention Center in SM Aura Premier. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the three-day event featured more than 100 Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), highlighting local craftsmanship and generating business opportunities in the wedding and events industry.

DTI kicked off the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025 at SMX Aura headed by DTI Sec. Cristina Roque, bringing together MSMEs from across the country in a celebration of love, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

The fair welcomed industry professionals, wedding planners, creatives, and couples preparing for their big day to explore everything from couture bridalwear and floral arrangements to photography, catering, travel services, and more. The highlight of Day 1 was a runway fashion show featuring Filipino bridal designers, who elevated traditional fabrics and sustainable design for the modern bride. Day 2 and 3 featured talks and interactive exhibits spotlighting creative industries—from graphic design and stationery to music and event production—showing how weddings can reflect both personal stories and cultural pride.

Filipino bridal designers wowed the crowd with modern, sustainable, and culturally rooted creations at the Wedding Fair Fashion Show—proudly highlighting Tatak Pinoy talent.

“Through partnerships like this, SM Supermalls remains committed to helping build the future of Filipino MSMEs by providing entrepreneurs a platform to showcase their work, nurture local talent and creativity, and strengthen economic resilience.” shared Joaquin San Agustin, EVP of SM Supermalls.

MSME designers wowed guests with their collection of bridal gowns, groom’s suits, and entourage wear—featuring silhouettes that range from classic romance to modern minimalist, all crafted with Filipino finesse.

A unique highlight at the DTI Wedding Fair: MSMEs showcased elegant Capiz shell dining wear—from plates and chargers to napkin holders and centerpieces—blending sustainability with sophistication.

Filipino tradition met timeless elegance at MSME booths featuring modern takes on the Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana—from hand-embroidered details to contemporary silhouettes perfect for formal Filipino weddings.

Filipino-made bridal jewelry and accessories took the spotlight at the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025, with MSME booths showcasing handcrafted tiaras, pearl earrings, heirloom rings, and bridal bling rooted in Filipino artistry.

In essence, the 2025 Wedding Fair was more than an event—it was a celebration of love, culture, and entrepreneurship, underlining that when Filipino MSMEs thrive, our communities—and the nation—grow stronger, faster, and more beautiful.