Award-Winning Circularity: SM Waste Free Future Transforms Closed-Loop Systems

Manila, Philippines – SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) received the Gold Award in the Transformation Category at the 2026 ESG Edge Impact Awards for its SM Waste Free Future initiative. The Transformation Category celebrates businesses and organizations that have significantly improved and evolved overall sustainability performance and operational models over time. 

From Vision to Transformation 

Through a collaborative ecosystem of stakeholders working toward a common goal, the shared commitment of a waste-free future reflects the SM way of creating meaningful and lasting impact. The launch of SM Waste Free Future in 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia marked the start of the group-wide initiative on waste circularity and standardized waste segregation across SM properties. 

At the core of the initiative is the belief that lasting waste reduction begins with everyday behavior. Applying the theory of change, the program started with observations of daily waste generation and an assessment of existing segregation systems. This was followed by the deployment of the three-bin waste system: Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC) bins, which make segregation easier and more accessible, helping reinforce positive daily habits over time. 

(Photo Caption) The 2024 nationwide launch of SM Waste Free Future. 

(Photo caption) Early days of employee engagement and awareness-building. 

Closing the loop, however, requires more than improving waste management practices. In 2025, a year after its launch, SM Prime achieved an 80% diversion rate for non-hazardous waste away from landfills. Achieving this level of diversion means sustained commitment and strategic investment in the program. 

A key enabler is SM GUUN Environmental Company, Inc. (SGECI), a waste-to-fuel facility in Consolacion, Cebu, that transforms disposable waste into alternative fuel for major cement manufacturers such as Holcim and APO Cement, advancing both waste diversion and circularity goals by keeping materials in productive use. 

SGECI’s expanded ecosystem includes Asia Brewery, PetValue, Nature Springs, and Concreat to recover, process, and repurpose waste materials generated across SM properties and smaller businesses in the area. It has processed more than 6,000 metric tons of waste in 2025, helping divert valuable resources away from landfills. 

(Photo caption) Through SGECI, SM Prime invests in critical waste infrastructure to help the country address its waste challenges. 

Turning circularity into movement 

Behind every framework, however, lies the collective action critical to any program. SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, leverages its social media presence to engage communities, especially the youth, in active participation toward a waste-free future. Last year's International Coastal Cleanup had 48,000 volunteers – the largest gathering of coastal warriors to date.  

“Creating a waste-free future requires everyone to play a role—from employees and partner-tenants to local governments, communities, and customers,” says Engr. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls VP for Compliance and Sustainability.

 “It is always a challenge at the start, but I’m proud of how far we have come. By working together, we can turn waste challenges into opportunities for positive environmental impact,” said Silerio.  

(In photo) SM Prime representatives with Engr. Liza B. Silerio (left middle), SM Supermalls VP for Compliance and Sustainability; Dr. Louernie de Sales (right middle), SM Prime VP for Sustainability and President of SGECI; Ms. Katrina Dalusong (leftmost), Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Director for Group Sales; and Philippine Daily Inquirer Business Section Editor, Ms. Tina Arceo-Dumlao (rightmost).

Championed by the SM Green Movement, the SM Waste Free Future continues to advance SM Prime's circular economy practices by bringing together employees, tenants, partners, and communities behind a shared vision of responsible waste circularity. 

 “This recognition reflects the power of collaboration in attempting to do what is impossible. The award belongs to everyone who has contributed to the journey. It demonstrates that when we unite behind a common purpose, we can achieve transformation at scale,” says Louernie de Sales, SM Prime VP for Sustainability and President of SGECI.

Discover, Dine, and Play: Cebu’s Growing Collection of Destination Attractions Captivates Travelers

Discover fun and adventure at Cebu Fun Park, one of the featured attractions within the SM Seaside Complex that brings recreation and leisure together in one destination. 

CEBU, Philippines, 12th August 2026 - Cebu continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the country's most dynamic travel destinations, offering visitors a diverse mix of attractions, experiences, and activities that go beyond its renowned beaches and heritage sites. As part of its SM for Cebu commitment, the most-loved SM malls in Cebu continue to bring together shopping, dining, entertainment, recreation, and leisure experiences, giving both locals and visitors a maxed-out experience and more ways to discover, dine, play, and make the most of their time in the province.

At SM City Cebu, visitors can experience a vibrant urban destination where shopping, dining, entertainment, and recreation come together in one convenient location. From leading fashion and lifestyle brands to the latest in technology, beauty, home, and everyday essentials, SM City Cebu curates one of the city's most comprehensive retail destinations, making it a preferred shopping hub for both locals and tourists. Food lovers can also explore the Food Hall, which brings together a diverse selection of dining concepts, offering everything from local favorites to international flavors in one vibrant culinary destination, while families and groups can enjoy friendly competition at the SM Bowling Center. For moviegoers, the Directors Club Cinema offers a premium viewing experience, while the first and only IMAX Theatre in Cebu remains a premier entertainment destination, offering audiences an unparalleled cinematic experience with cutting-edge projection and sound technology for the biggest film releases. With its central location and broad range of offerings, SM City Cebu provides visitors with a convenient way to shop, dine, be entertained, and unwind while exploring the city.

In Mandaue City, SM J Mall offers a distinctly different lifestyle experience, combining Japanese-inspired design and contemporary leisure concepts with shopping, dining, wellness, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the mall's Japanese-inspired spaces and discover dining destinations such as the Izakaya Terrace and Food Hall, offering opportunities to enjoy meals and gather with family and friends. Beyond dining, SM J Mall brings together retail, beauty and wellness, technology, and active-lifestyle experiences, creating a destination suited for both relaxation and recreation. Moviegoers can also enjoy the premium Directors Club Cinema, while the mall's curated spaces and lifestyle concepts provide visitors with a more experiential way to spend their day. Together, these offerings give SM J Mall a distinctive character within Cebu's growing collection of lifestyle destinations.

SM Skating offers an exhilarating ice-skating experience at SM Seaside City Cebu, giving visitors a space to glide, play, and enjoy memorable moments on the ice. 

At SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can explore an expansive mix of retail, dining, entertainment, and leisure offerings, including the SM Bowling Center, Ice Skating, and Directors Club Cinema. Beyond the mall, the surrounding SM Seaside Complex brings together Cebu Ocean Park, Cebu Fun Park, and Thirsty Pickle, offering marine discovery, family recreation, and active sports experiences. The destination is further expanding its events and entertainment offering with the SM Seaside Cebu Arena, which hosts major concerts, sporting events, and other large-scale activities, while the upcoming SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is set to further strengthen Cebu's capacity for conventions, exhibitions, meetings, and events.

From homegrown Cebuano specialties to globally inspired cuisine, SM Supermalls bring together diverse dining experiences that celebrate Cebu’s vibrant food culture.  

Cebu's diverse dining scene adds another dimension to the visitor experience, from beloved Cebuano specialties to globally inspired cuisines. Across SM malls in Cebu, guests can discover local favorites, homegrown brands, and international restaurants, making every visit an opportunity to explore new flavors while experiencing the region's vibrant food culture. Whether enjoying the variety at the Food Hall of SM City Cebu, experiencing Japanese-inspired dining at SM J Mall, or exploring the wide range of restaurants at SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can easily make food part of their Cebu experience.

Visitors enjoy an exciting game of pickleball at Thirsty Pickle, one of the featured lifestyle attractions within the SM Seaside Complex, offering active recreation for both beginners and experienced players. 

The growing variety of attractions gives travelers more ways to spend their day, whether enjoying marine encounters and family activities, discovering new dining and lifestyle concepts, shopping, watching movies, bowling, playing pickleball, or attending concerts and major events. By bringing together diverse lifestyle, retail, dining, entertainment, and recreational experiences, these destinations contribute to Cebu's broader tourism landscape, creating more opportunities for longer visits, repeat trips, and engagement with local businesses. As Cebu's tourism landscape continues to evolve, its growing collection of attractions reinforces the province's position as one of the country's premier travel destinations, inviting visitors to discover, dine, and play while experiencing even more of what Cebu has to offer.

Save This For Your Next SM Supermalls Run in the Metro!

If you're always on the lookout for what's new, you're in the right place! And yes, we’re sure you saw the photo above…the most-awaited tumbler brand now officially made its way to the Philippines! 🫶🏼

From brands opening their very first stores to exciting new dining concepts and lifestyle favorites arriving at SM, brings plenty of fresh reasons to stop by. Here's a look at the latest openings across Metro Manila.

• Garmin

Experience the newly opened biggest Garmin store in Southeast Asia at Level 4, Mega B, SM Megamall. Explore Garmin's full lineup of GPS smartwatches, fitness trackers, cycling computers, dive watches, and outdoor navigation devices—all in one immersive space designed for athletes, adventurers, and everyday movers alike.

• Benlai

Find your next everyday essential at Benlai, now at Level 1, North Main Mall of SM Mall of Asia! Making its Philippine debut, the brand brings functional lifestyle wear that combines clean, contemporary style with lightweight comfort for wherever the day takes you. 

• POLO Ralph Lauren

Experience the first-ever POLO Ralph Lauren store in SM at Level 2, South Main Mall of SM Mall of Asia. Discover timeless American style through the brand's signature collection of elevated essentials, from iconic polos and tailored classics to refined pieces made for everyday sophistication.

• MiniMelts

Cool down with a fun frozen treat at the first MiniMelts store in SM, now open at the Ground Level, North Towers of SM North EDSA. Famous for its colorful beaded ice cream, MiniMelts offers a playful dessert experience with a variety of flavors for all ages.

• Yabu

Enjoy authentic Japanese katsu at Yabu, now at the Ground Level of SM City Marilao. As the brand's first branch in North Luzon, it brings its signature premium pork and chicken katsu, unlimited cabbage, and Japanese set meals closer to diners in the region.

• Evernaked

Indulge in handcrafted cakes at the first Evernaked in the Philippines, now open at Level 2, City Center of SM North EDSA. Bringing its signature cakes from Shanghai, Evernaked serves beautifully crafted desserts made with quality ingredients, perfect for celebrations or simply treating yourself.

• Owala

Hydration gets a stylish upgrade with Owala, now open at Level 2, Mega Fashion Hall of SM Megamall. As the brand's first store in SM, shoppers can explore its collection of innovative drinkware designed to make staying hydrated easier and more enjoyable.

• Makanai 

Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch, winding down after work, or meeting friends over good food, Makanai serves Japanese comfort food in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Soon to open at the Ground Level of SM Podium, it's a great addition to the mall's growing lineup of dining destinations for anyone looking to discover their next favorite meal.

• TWG Tea 

One of the world's most celebrated luxury tea brands is soon to open at SM Mall of Asia. Discover over 1,000 exquisite tea blends sourced from renowned tea-growing regions across the globe, paired with refined pastries, gourmet dishes, and an elegant tea salon experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply slowing down over a cup of tea, TWG Tea offers a timeless destination for every tea lover!

Good food, sweet treats, and exciting new brands all in one mall run - that’s why this is My SM! Make time to explore these latest openings across Metro Manila. 

Check out these latest openings and see what's new at SM Supermalls. 

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

The Blackout Zone: SM Cares, CHED Turn Experience Into Understanding

SM Cares, in partnership with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), brought The Blackout Zone to the CHED Central Office Auditorium at the Higher Education Development Center Building in Diliman, Quezon City from July

21 to 22, 2026.

Developed through SM’s Mall for All drive on inclusivity, the immersive exhibit invited students, educators, and members of the academic community to experience life without sight in a controlled and safe environment. Participants were guided through everyday activities designed to encourage them to look beyond limitations and recognize the abilities, independence, and resilience of people with visual impairments.

“Sometimes, understanding begins when we are willing to step outside what is familiar,” said Richard V. Caluyo, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Cares. “By bringing The Blackout Zone closer to schools and the academic community, we hope to inspire young people and educators to help build learning environments where every person feels seen, respected, and included.”

For a few moments, participants stepped into complete darkness. Without relying on sight, they navigated familiar tasks through touch, sound, scent, and the reassuring guidance of others.

What emerged was something lasting: a deeper appreciation of how persons with visual impairments experience and move through the world each day.

Previously mounted in SM malls, The Blackout Zone has featured sensory and everyday activities such as tying a shoe, preparing coffee and sandwiches, identifying candy and scents, and experiencing Movies for the Blind. Its CHED installation marked a meaningful step beyond the mall setting, allowing the initiative to reach people who help shape classrooms, institutions, and future generations.

Through its partnership with CHED, SM Cares hopes to deepen conversations around accessibility and encourage higher education institutions to strengthen inclusive practices both inside and outside the classroom. 

“Our united goal with SM for The Blackout Zone is for the program to serve as a catalyst for meaningful action,” said CHED Commissioner Michelle A. Ong. “Empathy allows us to dismantle the barriers that hamper inclusion and education of Filipinos with vision impairments. Through this shared effort, we hope to further guide policies tightly woven with real-life experiences to serve this sector better.  

The experience also served as a reminder that inclusion is not built through awareness alone. It grows through empathy translated into thoughtful actions—from offering clear assistance and respecting independence to creating spaces where people of all abilities can participate fully.

The Blackout Zone forms part of SM Cares’ continuing programs for persons with disabilities, which promote accessibility, sensitivity, inclusive employment, and meaningful participation in community life.

Because while participants entered the exhibit without sight, many left seeing inclusion more clearly.

SM Little Stars Crowns Its First-Ever Grand Shining and Dazzling Stars

Gratiela Thresse M. Urmeneta of SM City Manila and Amiah Kaea Yzobel Quimzon of SM City Butuan capture SM Little Stars 2026's highest honors

The Grand Shining Star, Grand Dazzling Star, and runners-up pose with the SM Little Stars 2026 judges and organizers following the Grand Finals at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

MANILA, Philippines, 11th August 2026 — From thousands of hopefuls across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, thirty of the country’s brightest young dreamers took center stage at the SM Little Stars 2026 Grand Finals. Captivating the audience at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, the finalists showcased exceptional talent and charm in a nationwide celebration of Filipino youth. More than a talent search, the annual competition highlights SM Supermalls’ commitment to discovering and nurturing limitless potential from every corner of the Philippines as these children embrace the biggest stage of their young lives. 

The Grand Finals marked the culmination of six weeks of auditions held across 68 of your most-loved SM Supermalls nationwide. More than 41,000 children aged 4 to 7 showcased their talents in singing, dancing, and other skills, with only 30 exceptional finalists earning coveted spots in the country’s biggest nationwide kiddie talent competition. While every finalist inspired the audience with their passion and determination, two young dreamers ultimately earned this year's highest honors.

Gratiela showcases her dance moves, while Amiah serenades the audience with her rendition of the classic Disney song “When You Wish Upon a Star” during the SM Little Stars 2026 Grand Finals.

Gratiela Thresse M. Urmeneta of SM City Manila was crowned this year’s Grand Shining Star, while Amiah Kaea Yzobel Quimzon of SM City Butuan earned the title of Grand Dazzling Star. Their remarkable performances and irresistible charm won over both the audience and the judges, bringing the competition to an unforgettable conclusion.

Urmenete wowed the audience with her energetic dance performance, while Quimzon serenaded the judges and crowd with her heartfelt rendition of the classic Disney song “When You Wish Upon a Star.”

For the mothers of the newly crowned stars, seeing their children take home the competition's highest honors was a proud and emotional moment after weeks of preparation and support. "Sobrang proud ako sa kanya. Nakita ko kung gaano siya nagsikap at nagtiwala sa sarili niya. Bukod sa pagkapanalo, masaya akong makita siyang lumabas sa stage na mas confident," said Sheilamay P. Mojuntou, mother of Grand Shining Star winner Gratiela Urmeneta.

Meanwhile, Vanessa Ysmaela D. Quimzon, mother of Grand Dazzling Star Amiah Quimzon, shared, "Gusto lang namin na ma-enjoy niya ang experience, kaya napakalaking bonus na makita siyang manalo. Thankful kami sa SM Little Stars sa pagkakataong ito."

Beyond the competition itself, the Grand Finals became a celebration for families, friends, and supporters who filled the venue with cheers, applause, and heartfelt encouragement. 

“Watching these young dreamers perform reminds us that every big journey begins with one brave step. SM Little Stars has always been more than a competition; it is a place where children discover confidence, families create lifelong memories, and dreams begin to take shape. We are proud to continue providing that stage for Filipino children year after year," said Hanna Carinna T. Sy, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Leasing.

This year’s finalists were evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges composed of singer, actress, and host Karylle Yuzon, award-winning filmmaker Antoinette Jadaone, OPM hitmaker and ABS-CBN Music Assistant Vice President Jonathan Manalo, "Gala To The Max" choreographer Angel Datanagan, and SM Little Stars 2016 Grand Winner Marcus Cabais. Their expertise and insights helped recognize the young performers who best embodied the talent, confidence, and stage presence that define SM Little Stars.

Urmeneta and Quimzon were joined by 1st Runner-Up Amara Jade F. Sabino of SM City Lipa, 2nd Runner-Up Seth Nicolas B. Jacinto of SM City San Jose del Monte, and 3rd Runner-Up John Rouie S. Dizon of SM City Pampanga.

As this year's top winners, Urmeneta and Quimzon each received a prize package worth celebrating, including ₱100,000 in cash and SM Gift Certificates, a National University college scholarship, a brand-new car, an all-expense-paid trip to Hong Kong, and many more exciting rewards.

Aside from crowning the two grand winners, SM Little Stars 2026 also recognized three runners-up, the finalists who placed sixth to tenth, and recipients of the special awards: People’s Choice Award, Little Style Stars, Little Sparkling Stars, and Little Pop Star.

Beyond the titles and prizes, every finalist took home something even more meaningful—the courage to dream bigger, cherished memories with their families, and the confidence to take the next step in their journey. These unforgettable moments are a testament to the enduring legacy of SM Little Stars, which continues to inspire young talents and create meaningful experiences for 17 years and beyond.

SM Prime joins DILG in launching nationwide Unified 911 for Resilience campaign

 

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.

MANILA, Philippines, 8th August 2026 — 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.

SM Supermalls recognized for culture, consumer insights, and community marketing at the Marketing Excellence Awards 2026

Three award-winning campaigns showcase how SM Supermalls transforms insights into experiences that resonate with Filipino communities.

SM Supermalls’ two Gold Awards and one Silver Award at the Marketing Excellence Awards 2026 recognize the company’s commitment to cultural storytelling, consumer insights, and impactful launch marketing.

MANILA, Philippines, 8th August 2026 — Great marketing goes beyond capturing attention—it creates genuine connections. At SM Supermalls, every campaign begins with understanding the communities it serves, from celebrating local culture and uncovering consumer insights to creating launches that reflect the identity of a place.

This commitment was recognized at the Marketing Excellence Awards 2026, where SM Supermalls received two Gold Awards and one Silver Award, affirming its consumer-first approach to creating meaningful, maxed-out experiences for Filipino communities.

Recognized at the 2026 Marketing Excellence Awards, SM Supermalls’ winning campaigns celebrate local culture, deepen consumer understanding, and create meaningful experiences for communities nationwide.

One of the Gold Awards recognized SM Lanang’s Mindanao Art for Excellence in Cultural Storytelling. More than an art initiative, the campaign transformed the mall into a platform for Mindanao’s artists, showcasing local creativity while fostering a deeper appreciation for Mindanao’s rich artistic heritage. By bringing art closer to everyday audiences, SM Lanang created meaningful cultural experiences that resonated beyond the gallery walls.

Another Gold Award was given to the SM Supermalls Consumer Insights Program under Excellence in Consumer Insights/Market Research. Built on continuous listening and data-driven consumer understanding, the program enables SM Supermalls to create more relevant experiences, strengthen customer engagement, and respond to the evolving lifestyles of the communities it serves nationwide.

Completing the recognition was a Silver Award for the SM City La Union Grand Opening in the Excellence in Launch Marketing category. The campaign went beyond introducing a new mall—it celebrated La Union’s identity and growing community, welcoming residents and visitors with experiences that reflected the province’s vibrant culture while establishing SM City La Union as Northern Luzon’s newest lifestyle destination.

“At SM Supermalls, we believe meaningful marketing starts with understanding people,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing. “Whether we’re celebrating local culture, learning from our customers, or opening new spaces that serve communities, our goal has always been to create experiences that genuinely resonate. These recognitions inspire us to continue creating programs that are relevant, purposeful, and meaningful for every Filipino.”

The recognitions reflect SM Supermalls’ continued commitment to creating experiences shaped by insight, inspired by local communities, and anchored in meaningful connections. As the country’s most-loved mall, SM Supermalls remains focused on delivering meaningful, maxed-out experiences that celebrate the people, places, and stories that make every community unique.