Sleepy Mom's Blog

 

As the world of work continues to evolve, finding employment is no longer the only goal—staying competitive means continuously learning new skills and having easier access to services that support one's career journey. This August, SM Supermalls continues to create more opportunities for Filipinos through its nationwide SM Job Fair program, bringing together employment opportunities, free upskilling initiatives, and convenient access to government services that help jobseekers prepare for the future of work.

 

When it comes to mental health, room must be made for young people to be heard and reassure them that their voice has value, their lives are precious. Spaces where they feel safe to speak their mind and seek help matters now more than ever.

In line with its advocacy of empowering the next generation of Filipinos and strengthening communities by providing enriching experiences for the youth, SM Cares mounted Better Days: A Youth Mental Health Caravan. The caravan was hosted in partnership with Mental Health Youth Hub PH, I AM MAD (Making A Difference), the National Youth Commission, and Global Peace Foundation Philippines.

The multi-mall initiative was geared toward creating safe, welcoming spaces where young people could speak openly about their experiences, learn practical ways to care for their mental well-being, and discover that they do not have to face difficult days alone.

Held at the SM North EDSA Skydome last July 3 to be followed by activations at SM Center Pulilan Atrium and SM City Molino Cinema 1 the caravan carried the theme, “A Space for Sharing of Hope, Creating Connections, and Building Better Communities.”

“At SM Cares, we believe a stronger nation begins with young people who know that their lives matter, that their voices have value, and that there are people and communities ready to stand beside them, said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls. “And when young people feel heard, valued, and supported, they become better equipped to face challenges, care for others, and take part in building the communities they want to live in.”

Through conversations, panel discussions, activities, and messages from youth advocates and resource speakers, participants envisioned how days could get better and how they can help create them—for themselves and for others. The program encouraged young people to share their struggles, strengthen their resilience, and make every day self-care a routine.

Mental health advocates and friends of the cause such as broadcaster and television personality Kuya Kim Atienza joined the featured speakers at the SM North EDSA leg, helping inspire participants through conversations on well-being and resilience.

Better Days was implemented by SM Cares in partnership with Mental Health Youth Hub PH, I AM MAD (Making A Difference), the National Youth Commission, and Global Peace Foundation Philippines, and was powered by the Global Youth Summit.

The caravan followed the June 24 signing of a memorandum of understanding among SM Cares, the National Youth Commission, represented by Commissioner Undersecretary Joseph Francisco “Jeff” Ortega, and Mental Health Youth Hub PH. This formalized the shared commitment of all organizations to advance youth mental health and well-being and helped pave the way for the initiatives.

 

 

The iconic MOA Globe lights up during the launch of the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign, a nationwide initiative led by the DILG in partnership with SM Prime to promote emergency preparedness.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. has partnered with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to launch the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign, a nationwide initiative that aims to strengthen public awareness of emergency preparedness and promote a more coordinated emergency response system across the country.

Held at the SM Mall of Asia Globe in observance of National Disaster Resilience Month, the campaign brought together more than 2,000 representatives from the DILG, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine National Police, local government units, barangays, and other partner agencies for a unified call to build safer, more resilient communities.

"At SM, we believe that resilience is a shared responsibility. Building safer, more prepared communities requires the government, businesses, and citizens to work together toward a common purpose," said SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations Junias M. Eusebio.

"It is an honor for SM to be the private sector partner and to stand alongside the DILG, the PNP, and the Bureau of Fire Protection in launching the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign," he added.

SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations Junias M. Eusebio underscores the importance of public-private collaboration in building safer and more resilient communities during the launch of the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign.

One of the campaign's highlights was the simultaneous activation of Unified 911 campaign materials across SM Prime's nationwide digital network, including the iconic MOA Globe and nearly 400 cinema screens nationwide. The synchronized rollout amplified the campaign's message, leveraging SM's extensive footprint to reach millions of Filipinos and encourage greater awareness of the country's emergency response initiatives.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla graced the launch of the Unified 911 for Resilience campaign.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla and Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano led the event alongside senior officials from the DILG, the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the Office of Civil Defense, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Emergency 911 National Office, and the City Government of Pasay.

Through its partnership with the DILG and other government agencies, SM Prime continues to support initiatives that promote public safety, disaster preparedness, and community resilience. By utilizing its nationwide network of malls and digital platforms, the company helps extend the reach of campaigns that empower Filipinos with vital information and encourage a culture of preparedness.

As one of the country's leading integrated property developers, SM Prime remains committed to working with both the public and private sectors to help build safer, more resilient communities for all Filipinos.

 

Every successful business begins with someone brave enough to take the first step. For countless women entrepreneurs, that journey starts with a simple idea, nurtured by passion, strengthened by resilience, and driven by the dream of creating a better future for their families and communities.

Yet while many have built remarkable products and businesses, one challenge remains constant—finding opportunities to be discovered.

Women-led enterprises proudly showcased their local products at the Women Strong Trade Fair held at the Fashion Hall of SM Megamall last year.

Recognizing the vital role women play in driving entrepreneurship and local economic growth, SM Supermalls, through SM for MSMEs, continues to strengthen its support for women-led enterprises through its partnership with WomenBizPH. This August, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs will bring together inspiring women entrepreneurs at SM Megamall and SM City Cebu, with succeeding activations at SM City Lucena and SM City Zamboanga.

From proudly local delicacies to globally competitive designs, the fair is a continuous celebration of women’s ingenuity, resilience, and contribution to nation-building through enterprise.

More than a marketplace, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs serve as a platform where women entrepreneurs can introduce their brands to new customers, exchange ideas with fellow business owners, build meaningful connections, and gain valuable opportunities to grow their enterprises

 

Behind every booth is a woman with a dream, a purpose, and a story worth sharing. Through WomenBizPH and SM for MSMEs, women entrepreneurs are given greater opportunities to showcase their brands, reach new customers, and continue building businesses that inspire communities nationwide.

The initial lineup for the SM Megamall leg alone features entrepreneurs from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, showcasing the richness of Filipino craftsmanship and regional creativity.

Visitors can discover a curated selection of proudly Filipino brands featuring handcrafted fashion, woven textiles, artisanal food, wellness products, accessories, jewelry, home décor, and lifestyle essentials.

Beyond shopping, each three-day trade fair offers a dynamic lineup of activities designed to empower entrepreneurs through learning and collaboration. Business talks, keynote sessions from government and industry leaders, exhibitor sales pitches, networking opportunities, fashion showcases, and recognition programs provide participants with valuable insights while celebrating the achievements of women-led businesses.

"Women entrepreneurs continue to drive innovation, create livelihoods, and strengthen communities across the country. Through our partnership with WomenBizPH, we hope to provide more opportunities for women-led businesses to gain greater visibility, connect with more customers, and continue growing," said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls.

President Rhoda Caliwara and Board Secretary Mylene Abiva of WomenbizPH pose for a group photo at the grand opening of the Women Strong Trade Fair in SM Lanang.

“Empowered women empower women. And when women come together to support one another in business, innovation and impact follow.” Said Mylene Abiva, Board Secretary, WomenBizPH.

L-R: WomenBizPH Board Secretary Mylene Abiva, together with SM Supermalls Executives Pats Dy, SAVP and Head of Marketing for SM Communities and Royston Cabunag, AVP and Department Head for SM Communities during the grand opening at SM Megamall.

The partnership reflects SM Supermalls' continuing commitment to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by creating accessible platforms where entrepreneurs can showcase their products, strengthen customer relationships, and expand their market reach through the country's most loved mall network.

Empowered and united! DTI Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona proudly supporting local weavers from North Luzon.

For shoppers, the experience goes beyond discovering unique local products. Every booth represents a personal journey—one built on courage, perseverance, and purpose. Behind every handcrafted item, locally made delicacy, or innovative creation is a woman who chose to pursue her dream despite the challenges of building a business.

Together, women entrepreneurs from different communities and industries come together to celebrate collaboration, resilience, and the growing community of women-led Filipino businesses

Every purchase, every conversation, and every discovery becomes an opportunity to support women entrepreneurs who are creating livelihoods, preserving local craftsmanship, and contributing to stronger communities across the country.

Whether you're looking for thoughtful gifts, proudly Filipino products, or your next favorite local brand, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs offer a chance to discover businesses with stories worth sharing—and the remarkable women behind them.

Visit the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs at participating SM malls:

SM Megamall | August 10–12
SM City Cebu | August 14–16

A beautifully hand-painted Filipiniana reflects the vibrant stories of Filipino women—symbolizing the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit celebrated through WomenBizPH and SM for MSMEs.

Discover inspiring women-led Filipino brands and support the entrepreneurs shaping the future of local enterprise through SM for MSMEs.

 

Customers continue to be the transformation driver for SM Supermalls.

Following undisrupted foot traffic and positive business performance in the first half of 2026, the mall operating arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc. has noted three key factors that maintained market interest despite scaled consumption patterns earlier in the year.

"Filipinos kept showing up for family, passions, and the moments that matter," said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. "SM remained a trusted constant, creating more ways to celebrate, connect, play, and discover, while evolving alongside how Filipinos now live. That is the heart of 'My SM' - evolving alongside our customers so every mall feels personal, inclusive, and built around what they love most."

Expanded and Reinvented Spaces

Above image: Pickleball dominates the sports landscape as SM Supermalls rapidly expands its nationwide courts to meet booming consumer demand.

In the first half of the year, SM cemented its status as the country’s largest mall-based pickleball destination, expanding its network to 86 courts across 29 malls. Driven by surging market interest in active lifestyles, SM Supermalls and the SM Active Hub continue to scale up facilities nationwide while hosting community events like the inaugural SM Active Hub Pickleball Trio Challenge, culminating in its July 2026 Grand Finals.

Above image: The new SM Seaside Cebu Arena elevates the Visayas entertainment scene as a world-class venue capable of hosting up to 25,000 guests.

Additionally, customers continually sought new and exciting entertainment concepts. With the launch of the SM Seaside Cebu Arena, the Visayan market has been enhanced with a new world-class entertainment venue that can host up to 25,000 guests. Rising worldwide act and Filipino pop girl group BINI inaugurated the launch.

SM Cinemas has also captured a revitalized market of movie-goers amid back-to-back blockbuster and sleeper hits from both big-name studios and indie production houses. The launch of its exclusive ScreenX format late last year provided local movie-goers with a unique and immersive cinematic experience that hosted 2026’s anticipated movies such as Zootopia 2 and Avatar: Fire and Ash, most recent sought-after screening being Spider-Man: Brand-New Day.

Above image: The country’s first SM Sensory Lab offers a safe and welcoming environment for mallgoers navigating sensory processing challenges.

Meanwhile purpose-driven concepts introduced a revolutionary approach to utilizing mall spaces. With the inaugural launch of the SM Sensory Lab done in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), SM has created a safe environment for mallgoers and visitors struggling with sensory processing challenges.

Above image: Mallgoers utilize SM’s nationwide Electric Vehicle Charging Stations for greener transit alternatives.

To further support the country’s pursuit of sustainable and modern transportation alternatives amid the fuel crisis, SM has also expanded its nationwide network of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations with 100% coverage across its 90 malls.

From sensory-friendly spaces to green transit, these reinvented facilities reflect how "My SM" is designed to accommodate every shopper’s unique needs and values.

Reimagined Customer Experiences

To meet growing customer appetite for first-in-market and unique food experiences, SM continually elevated its Food Hall concepts nationwide, promoting regional fare and local food businesses through high-foot traffic dining spaces.

Above image: Food lovers enjoy unique culinary concepts and elevated dining spaces at SM Aura’s newly reimagined Food Hall.

SM also expanded market access to global and local brands through a variety of new and exclusive food and retail launches.

Madrid’s famous San Ginés Chocolatería in SM Podium, Super Matcha in SM Megamall and Candid Coffee in SM Mall of Asia captured growing market demand for cafés and confectionary offerings. Additionally, the introduction of international clothing icons icons Abercrombie&Fitch and Hollister expanded access for local fashionistas to fresh and trendy outfit options.

By bringing global brands and curated local food concepts to neighborhood hubs, SM ensures that "My SM" is as much a personalized lifestyle destination as it is a shopping center. Enhanced Market Engagement

Above image: SM Supermalls drives massive social engagement with tens of millions of views through its interactive "Gala to the Max" campaign.

With the launch of its "Gala to the Max" campaign, SM sought to engage mallgoers by empowering them as storytellers, driving massive social engagement with tens of millions of video views.

Above image: Geeks and anime enthusiasts live out their passions with exclusive interactive pop-ups at Animazing North’s 6th edition.

Pop culture fans and enthusiasts lived out their passions with exclusive pop-ups executed across SM Malls, such as the Pokémon Center pop-up in SM Mall of Asia and Animazing North’s 6th edition, featuring an interactive installation for Solo Leveling.

Reinforcing its role as a hub for cultural exchange, SM Mall of Asia hosted the NHCP’s HistoEx 2026 in celebration of Buwan ng Kasaysayan. The three-day exposition brought history to life through interactive exhibits, public lectures, and immersive installations celebrating the country’s maritime heritage.

Above image: Runners take over EDSA for the Galaxy Manila Marathon, one of SM Active Hub’s major fitness events.

SM also supported active lifestyles through its SM Active Hub exclusive events, with tens of thousands of participants filling the streets for major running events like the Galaxy Manila Marathon on EDSA and the SM2SM race in Cebu.

Whether running a marathon on EDSA, celebrating fandoms, or creating viral content, shoppers are actively shaping their own "My SM" moments and sharing them with the community.

Above image: Bringing new retail and lifestyle experiences to Mindanao, SM Zamboanga officially welcomed shoppers in Q1 2026.

The mall operator launched SM Zamboanga as its latest retail property in Mindanao in the first quarter and plans to cap off 2026 with the opening of its upscale mall in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa before the year’s end.

As Filipino lifestyle habits continue to move toward wellness, connection, and meaningful experiences, SM Supermalls continues to adapt—giving every Filipino a space they can truly call "My SM."