SM Supermalls Empowers MSMEs’ Future Through Inclusive Resilience

SM Supermalls Empowers MSMEs’ Future Through Inclusive Resilience

Jul 4, 2025

No comments

For SM Supermalls, resilience remains an essential pillar in its pursuit of sustainability. Without safe, secure, and prepared communities, the vision of sustainable development becomes difficult to achieve. This is why the company believes that promoting resilience is not only a matter of operational readiness but a responsibility to the communities and businesses that form the backbone of the economy. 

At the heart of this commitment are micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These businesses are often the most vulnerable to disruptions brought about by natural and man-made hazards. Yet, they represent a critical force in the national economy---generating jobs, driving local commerce, and sustaining livelihoods. 

Recognizing their importance, SM Supermalls has made it a priority to help cultivate an MSME sector that is resilient. Across its network, close to 70 percent of SM Supermalls’ tenants are currently MSMEs. These businesses operate under unique lessee contracts that acknowledge their specific needs and challenges. 

To support them, SM not only provides space but also promotes an environment that values preparedness and long-term continuity.  SM Supermalls’ most notable resilience initiative for its MSME tenants is a dedicated Business Continuity Planning (BCP) program launched in 2024. This capacity-building initiative enables businesses to develop tailored Business Continuity Plans and implement adaptive measures to reduce the impact of disruptions. 

SM’s tenants are each provided with free access to 5GB of remote digital storage where they can securely store critical business documents such as their BCPs, permits, registrations, and insurance policies, among others. 

In the event of a disaster, access to these documents becomes seamless, allowing faster processing of insurance claims and a quicker return to operations. To further scale its impact, SM Supermalls established a public-private partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement in 2024. Together with ARISE Philippines, a United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)-affiliated private sector alliance for disaster resilience, the partnership aims to ensure that 6,000 MSMEs have robust BCPs by the end of 2027. 

This collaboration is led by DTI Regional Operations Group Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona and Bureau of Small Medium Enterprise Development (BSMED) Director Emma Asusano, alongside SM Supermalls’ Corporate Resilience Department. 

The shared goal is clear: to safeguard MSMEs nationwide through proactive preparedness. One key feature of the initiative is the SM-DTI Calamity Recovery (CARE) Booth, activated during times of calamity. Located in malls with communities impacted by disasters, the booth serves as an accessible touchpoint for MSMEs needing post-disaster support---providing a practical and timely response mechanism that bridges the gap between public resources and private needs.

Read More

Strengthening Disaster Preparedness: SM Makes the Incident Command System Possible

Strengthening Disaster Preparedness: SM Makes the Incident Command System Possible

No comments

 In a country like the Philippines, where typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural calamities are part of the norm, resilience is not just a necessity but a way of life. Ranked consistently high in the World Risk Index due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire and the typhoon belt, the nation faces challenges that demand coordinated, forward-thinking approaches to disaster preparedness and response. 

Among those leading the way is SM Supermalls, whose commitment to resilience continues to evolve through investments in systems that safeguard not only business continuity but, more importantly, the communities they serve.

Disaster resilience in the private sector has become increasingly crucial. Corporations have the capacity to create ripple effects both in terms of operational continuity and their influence on surrounding communities. For SM, a sustained and risk-informed approach to resilience ensures that when emergencies strike, response is swift, coordinated, and grounded in tested protocols.

A key initiative in this approach is the company’s very own rollout of the Incident Command System (ICS). Designed to provide a standardized structure for managing emergency response, the ICS originated in the United States and is widely recognized as an on-scene, all-hazard incident management concept. Through its unified hierarchy and clearly defined roles, the ICS ensures that different responders---from government agencies to private security teams---can act in sync. This leads to more efficient resource management, better communication, and a higher degree of accountability during high-pressure situations.

As part of the initiative, SM regularly implements emergency preparedness drills across its network of malls and consistently participates in nationwide efforts for disaster preparedness, such as the annual fire and earthquake drills led by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). These efforts are complemented by support for the quarterly Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drills led by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). These exercises include both employees and tenants, creating a culture of readiness that extends beyond corporate boundaries.

In addition, 79 SM Supermalls have been certified under the Business Continuity Management Systems---a reflection of the company’s structured and systematized approach to disaster risk reduction and recovery. This level of certification not only reflects internal diligence but also sets a benchmark for the broader business sector.

SM also has a dedicated resilience center, which operates as a centralized communications hub during large-scale disruptions. This facility coordinates with all SM malls to ensure rapid information flow and streamlined decision-making in the event of a national emergency.

SM’s collaborative approach to disaster resilience was also demonstrated during the 2024 Asia- Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Manila. On the last day of the conference, SM City Clark became the focal point of an ICS demonstration attended by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Resilience and foreign delegates.

The event showcased a unified response involving mall management, the Clark and Angeles municipalities, the BFP, OCD Region 3, and NDRRMC. Together, they enacted coordinated procedures designed to enhance public safety, offering an up-close look at how integrated disaster response works in a real-world environment.

In preparation for the site visit, SM Supermalls partnered with ARISE Philippines, the Private Sector Alliance for Resilient Societies, to conduct an ICS workshop alongside the OCD. This training brought together heads of operations, human resources, security, and Information Technology from SM City Clark and nearby locators such as Park Inn Hotel. Facilitated by experts from the BFP and the Philippine Army, the workshop provided hands-on training in ICS protocol, further reinforcing the company’s commitment to capacity-building at the local level.

SM’s vision for resilience is expansive and continuous. Following the success of the Clark initiative, the company is now preparing to roll out the next phase of ICS workshops, beginning with SM Mall of Asia and expanding to regional malls across the country. This nationwide implementation reflects a long-term strategy that prioritizes safety, community cohesion, and operational readiness. 

“By investing in frameworks like the ICS, SM Supermalls demonstrates that resilience is not a reactive measure but an ongoing commitment,” said SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio. “

In a landscape defined by environmental vulnerability, this commitment provides not only peace of mind but a tangible sense of preparedness for employees, tenants, and the public at large.” Through proactive strategies and sustained partnerships with government and civil society, SM is building more than safe spaces. It is also cultivating a culture of resilience that empowers people and protects communities in the face of any uncertainty, reiterating its commitment to promoting a more disaster-ready Philippines.

Read More

Must-See Firsts at SM Supermalls

Must-See Firsts at SM Supermalls

No comments

Let your thirst for trying out new things lead you this month of June.

Be fun, be free, and let spontaneity take the wheel with these new and upcoming gems heading your way. From immersive experiences to robust cuisines from around the globe, to standout fashion pieces—you have the power to make the mundane magical when you choose to see every day as a canvas of possibilities.

Wander to wonder, and embrace the magic of curiosity and exploration with SM Supermalls—right here in Metro Manila.

Variety & Great Options at SM Mall of Asia

With more options, you uncover more paths, opening doors to fresh experiences and delightful discoveries—whether it be trying out different meals at once or spicing up your everyday style!

Enjoy the diverse flavors of Japan at Kiwami: Japanese Master Kitchens, opening their first-ever SM flagship store soon—their biggest one yet! Offering a variety of authentic dishes all under one roof, indulge in an extensive dining experience and savor the best of Yabu (katsu), Ippudo (ramen), Hachibei (yakitori), and Hannosuke (tempura)—each offering their own distinct and authentic taste of Japan.

Meanwhile, our stylish go-getters can look forward to more soon-to-open stores, serving up options after options in everyday fashion and sportswear:

• JD Sports—elevate your active lifestyle with impactful design and exclusive picks from top-performing brands. Britain’s leading retailer in street and activewear is bringing its first-ever store to the Philippines within the next few months.

• 8 Seconds—an iconic Korean clothing brand is opening its first-in-PH store this July. Prepare to K-style your everyday look with trendy apparel ready to captivate you in under 8 seconds. 

Magical Moments at SM North EDSA

Having the heart to wander rewards you with unexpected moments of magic. Give yourself the chance to experience those pleasant surprises and set out to explore these newly opened go-to destinations:

Space & Time Cube, the Philippines’ first immersive digital museum blending art and technology across multiple themed attractions, opened last May 16, extending its signature multi-sensory experience to our adventure seekers here in Quezon City. Their latest highlight, Fantasy Cinema, delivers an exhilarating 9D feature—combining virtual reality, motion simulation, and rich sensory effects to transport guests into an awe-inspiring cinematic world.

Meanwhile, Moon Hey—an engaging hot pot & grill restaurant—will launch their first-in-SM store this June, serving diners with their own satisfying dining experience by having individualized cooking stations and a customizable set of ingredients that revolves around the room.

Positive-impact Fashion at SM Megamall 

Wander responsibly. And have a conscious effort  to care about the environment wherever your feet lead you. Make a fashionable statement with sustainable designs from VIVAIA—a rising gem in global footwear that recently opened its first in-mall store here in the Philippines. Offering a wide selection of on-trend shoes made notably from recycled PET materials, VIVAIA brings a commitment to eco-friendly footwear crafted for comfort, style, and responsible consumption. 

German Flavors at SM Podium 

Wandering is not complete without some time for relaxation, because the best part about taking a wondrous journey comes out when you're having fun! Experience the embodiment of good cheers with the best of German cuisine. 

Originating from Singapore, Brotzeit is a world-renowned German bier bar and restaurant which recently opened its first-in-SM store. It serves Bavarian meals and rich German beers in a perfectly welcoming space—ideal for a chill and fun night. 

Enjoy a diverse selection of sausage platters, schnitzel, pork knuckles, all perfectly complemented by—of course—beers! Having a heart for adventure leads to surprising moments of awe. Discover exciting and noteworthy delights here in Metro Manila, and enrich your stories of wander and wonder—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!

Read More

SM Supermalls Supports First-Ever TESDA Jobs and Skills Matching Fair

SM Supermalls Supports First-Ever TESDA Jobs and Skills Matching Fair

No comments

 In collaboration with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Muntinlupa, the Muntinlupa Local Government Unit (LGU), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), SM Center Muntinlupa will host the pilot run of the Jobs and Skills Matching Fair on June 19, 2025.

This one-day event offers jobseekers—particularly those interested in the IT- Business Process Management (BPM) industry—a streamlined path from employment screening to skills training and re-employment.

The fair begins with an on-site job matching session, where walk-in and registered applicants can undergo interviews with participating companies. Qualified candidates may be hired on the spot, while “near-hires” will be referred to the Skills Hub for personalized consultations facilitated by DTI-PTTC.

At the Skills Hub, jobseekers will undergo a one-on-one evaluation using the Philippine Skills Framework (PSF). This identifies any skills gaps and recommends tailored training programs and career pathways. TESDA will then match these near-hires with accredited training institutions and available scholarship opportunities.

After completing their upskilling journey, participants will be reconnected with partner employers—ensuring a full-circle career pipeline from application to employment readiness.

While this launch is a low-key pilot, it signifies a major step forward in creating more responsive, skills-based employment solutions. 

The Jobs and Skills Matching Fair represents a next-gen approach to job fairs—one that goes beyond resumes and job vacancies to focus on real-time skills-building and industry needs.

Join the movement. Start something life-changing.

This isn’t just another job fair—it’s a one-stop opportunity hub. Aside from hundreds of job openings and on-the-spot hiring, attendees can access skills training, career guidance, and essential government services such as the Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)—all in one convenient, accessible, and air-conditioned SM mall.

So, update that resume, bring extra copies, dress to impress, and show up as your most professional self. Your next big opportunity starts here.

For full schedules and updates, follow SM Supermalls on Facebook or visit www.smsupermalls.com.

About SM Job Fairs

SM Supermalls, in partnership with key government agencies and the private sector, regularly holds nationwide job fair events to support employment, empower communities, and contribute to nation-building. These fairs provide inclusive, accessible platforms connecting Filipino jobseekers to thousands of career opportunities and essential services.

Read More

Experience What’s First in Cebu

Experience What’s First in Cebu

No comments

 To live in the moment is your theme this month of June with several opportunities for joy and fulfillment heading your way.

What makes life truly rewarding is having the present moment to create meaningful memories—whether it’s by yourself or with the people you love. From sharing great food, to celebrating small wins, to saving the day after a long, arduous week—you can live your best life by making the most of today.

Indulge in having moments to cherish, and take the chance to create memories of happiness with SM Supermalls—right here in Cebu.

Moments Worth Savoring at SM City Cebu

What better way to share special moments than over delicious food? Savor memorable dining experiences with these must-visit food destinations headlining this June and July:

• Manam—finally opening this month, get ready to relish familiar yet innovative flavors with modern takes on Filipino comfort food and traditional dishes—including their signature Beef Short Rib Sinigang & Watermelon.

• Ooma—the long wait for this Japanese-inspired restaurant is over! Known for its bold takes on Japanese dishes, food lovers in Visayas can enjoy Ooma favorites including the Hanger Steak, Aburi Mixer, Ebi Tempura, and more.

• 8 Cuts Burgers—a casual restaurant serving a wide menu of burgers and sides, highlighting their custom-blended patties crafted from premium grade ingredients.

• Mo’ Cookies—a dessert haven known for its ooey-gooey palm-sized cookies come in flavors like Chocolate Chip, South Cotabato Fudge, and Nutella Crinkle, among many others.

• Din Tai Fung—a renowned Taiwanese restaurant chain celebrated for its expertly crafted xiaolongbao, along with a variety of authentic Taiwanese dishes.

Unwind and Treat Yourself at SM Seaside City Cebu

Meaningful moments don’t have to be grand—because joy can also come from small wins, small steps, and all the little things you do to show appreciation for yourself. Check out these freshly opened hangout spot:

After a long wait, the fast-growing Pickup Coffee has finally arrived at SM Seaside City Cebu with its first-in-SM premium café concept: Pickup Prime—offering elevated brews perfect for your productive lifestyle. 

Whether it’s your very first collectible item or your first time trying out makeup, there’s joy and fulfillment in treating yourself to new things and fresh experiences. Reward yourself with these first-in-Cebu stores launching this June:

• Geek PH—specialty toy and collectibles store, catering to pop culture enthusiasts, offering a wide range of action figures, blind boxes, and other unique items.

• Issy—a Filipino beauty brand renowned for its vegan, cruelty-free, and skin-friendly makeup products, bannering items designed to be versatile, easy to use, and suitable for the tropical climate of the Philippines.

• Premier Drip—a wellness lounge specializing in intravenous (IV) therapy opening their first-in-Cebu store, offering the magic of having an enhanced overall skin health, radiant glowing, and boosted immunity.

• Bangkok Kitchen Express—a Thai restaurant bringing the authentic flavors of Bangkok to Cebu for the very first time.

Parisian Bistro at SM J Mall

Take your special moments to a classic French dining experience here in Cebu. Our discerning food lovers can look forward to the opening of Salon de Thé by The French Baker—a Parisian-inspired café featuring European pastries, gourmet teas, and bistro-style dishes.

Life’s about what you do with every waking moment. Have your time, create memories worth remembering, and take center stage with lots of opportunities for joy here in Cebu—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!

Read More

Championing Disaster Resilience at UNDRR Global Platform

Championing Disaster Resilience at UNDRR Global Platform

No comments

 SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) Executive Committee Chairman Hans Sy reaffirmed the vital role of the private sector in disaster risk reduction (DRR) during the 2025 Global Platform of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), held in Geneva, Switzerland. 

Representing the Philippine private sector at the Ministerial Roundtable on “Accelerating Financing and Resilience,” Sy underscored how businesses can help drive scalable, science-based resilience solutions.

Private sector as a force multiplier in DRR

“Resilience strengthens businesses while safeguarding lives and communities,” Sy stated. “We know the government cannot do it alone. The private sector is ready to do more.”

He cited SM Prime’s integrated approach to DRR, which includes allocating a significant portion of project costs to disaster-resilient infrastructure and applying science-driven planning frameworks. 

Sy also pointed to cross-sector initiatives such as the Adopt-a-City Program with the National Resilience Council and joint capacity-building programs with ARISE Philippines and the Department of Trade and Industry as examples of effective public-private partnerships.

Embedding resilience into core business strategy In a High-Level Dialogue on scaling DRR financing, Sy outlined SM Prime’s approach to mainstreaming resilience across its developments. He highlighted features such as elevated mall structures, built-in rainwater catchment systems, and earthquake-resistant designs—solutions that have minimized disruption and enabled rapid recovery in the face of disaster. “Disasters may be unpredictable, but their impacts don’t have to be,” he said. “We can—and must—prepare, mitigate, and adapt.” Call to scale resilience investment To expand DRR financing, Sy called for enabling mechanisms that combine policy support, institutional cooperation, and targeted incentives. “From the standpoint of the private sector, financial, non-financial and regulatory incentives are among the most effective ways to accelerate investment in resilience,” he noted. His remarks underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and long-term thinking in building resilient communities. SM Prime’s leadership in DRR continues to set a benchmark for sustainable development in disaster-prone regions. “Together, we can embed resilience to build a sustainable and secure future for all,” he concluded.

Read More

World Ocean Day Coastal Clean-Up

World Ocean Day Coastal Clean-Up

No comments

 In celebration of World Oceans Day 2025, over 5,000 volunteers from all walks of life united on June 7 for a massive nationwide coastal cleanup led by SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls. Collectively, they removed an astounding 30,000 kilograms of trash from shorelines across the Philippines—proving that when a community comes together, real impact happens.

This year’s theme, “WONDER: Sustaining What Sustains Us,” resonated deeply as volunteers took to coastlines in Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, armed with gloves, sacks, and a shared mission: to protect the oceans that give us life.

Beyond fostering community collaboration and promoting environmental responsibility, SM Cares’ coastal cleanup initiative played a vital role in cultivating healthier environment, enhancing the overall quality of life for local residents, and contributing to the long-term preservation of marine ecosystems. 

“The oceans sustain us every day, and now it's our turn to give back,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Cares Program Director for the Environment. “This coastal cleanup isn’t just a ier coastal spaces, and uniting people through shared environmental action.”

A National Movement for the Seas

From students and teachers to LGUs, NGO partners, employees, and security and janitorial teams, the cleanup drew a diverse wave of ocean defenders. SM Cares worked closely with local government units, environmental organizations, youth groups, and coastal barangays to stage cleanups across several major sites nationwide.

These collaborations not only ensured the success of the initiative but also highlighted the power of inclusive, community-driven action. Volunteers gathered to remove tons of waste from shorelines, raise awareness about marine conservation, and inspire long-term behavioral change toward environmental care.

Read More