SM Supermalls empowers MSMEs’ future through inclusive resilience

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.

Additionally, SM Supermalls regularly hosts scheduled BCP workshops for MSMEs in collaboration with DTI. These workshops are conducted in centralized SM locations across various regions and are open to both SM tenants and DTI-assisted MSMEs. During these sessions, business owners are introduced to the various risks posed by different types of disasters and are guided step-by-step in developing their own BCPs. These plans are tailored to the unique nature and geographical location of their operations, and the sessions extend to the BCP testing and validation phase to ensure practical application and effectiveness.

“Resilience is not built overnight, and requires education, commitment, and collaboration across different sectors. Knowing this, SM Supermalls continues to invest in long-term resilience not just for its business, but for the broader ecosystem of MSMEs it supports. In doing so, we are reinforcing the fundamental truth that sustainable progress is only possible when communities and businesses are prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow.” ~Steven Tan, said SM Supermalls President 

The participants are given one month to finalize their BCPs, which must be approved by their business management and submitted to DTI. Since the program’s launch in September 2024, over 1,500 MSMEs have already undergone training, with more scheduled in the months ahead.

Strengthening disaster preparedness: SM makes the Incident Command System possible

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. 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.” ~Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President

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.

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Must-See Firsts in Metro Manila

Allow your desire to attempt new things lead you this month of June.

With these new and upcoming jewels, you may have fun, be free, and allow serendipity to take over.  From immersive experiences to robust cuisines from around the world to distinctive fashion pieces, you have the potential to transform the commonplace into the spectacular when you choose to view each day as a blank canvas.

Wander to marvel and embrace the charm of curiosity and adventure at SM Supermalls, located right here in Metro ManilaVariety & Great Options at SM Mall of Asia

With more options, you can explore more paths, leading to new experiences and exciting discoveries—whether it's trying out several meals at once or spicing up your daily style!

Enjoy the varied flavors of Japan at Kiwami: Japanese Master Kitchens, which will shortly open its first SM flagship store—the largest yet!  Enjoy a comprehensive dining experience and relish the best of Yabu (katsu), Ippudo (ramen), Hachibei (yakitori), and Hannosuke (tempura), all of which give 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 desire to explore rewards you with unexpected moments of magic.  Give yourself the opportunity to experience such pleasant surprises by visiting these freshly opened go-to destinations:

Space & Time Cube, the Philippines' first immersive digital museum that combines art and technology across numerous themed attractions, launched on May 16, bringing its trademark multi-sensory experience to our adventure seekers in Quezon City.  Their most recent highlight, Fantasy Cinema, is an amazing 9D film that combines virtual reality, motion simulation, and rich sensory effects to bring guests into an awe-inspiring cinematic universe.

Meanwhile, Moon Hey, an engaging hot pot and grill restaurant, will open their first-in-SM location in June, providing guests with their own gratifying dining experience with personalized cooking stations and a customized collection of ingredients that circulates around the room.

Positive-impact Fashion at SM Megamall

Wander responsibly.  Make an effort to be environmentally conscious wherever you go.  Make a fashion statement with sustainable designs from VIVAIA, a leading global footwear brand that recently established its first in-mall store in the Philippines.  VIVAIA offers a comprehensive assortment of on-trend shoes produced primarily from recycled PET materials, demonstrating a dedication to eco-friendly footwear designed for comfort, style, and responsible consumption.

German Flavors at SM Podium

Wandering is incomplete without some time for leisure, because the finest part of embarking on a wonderful journey is having fun!

Enjoy the essence of good cheer with the best of German food.  Brotzeit, a world-renowned German bier bar and restaurant founded in Singapore, just opened its first SM location.  It delivers Bavarian cuisine and rich German beers in a superbly welcome setting—ideal for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.  Enjoy a variety of sausage platters, schnitzel, and pig knuckles, all ideally paired with—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!

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.

SM Supermalls supports first-ever TESDA jobs and skills matching fair

SM Job Fairs open real employment opportunities, with jobseekers like this landing roles on the spot.

On June 19, 2025, SM Center Muntinlupa will host a pilot run of the Jobs and Skills Matching Fair in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), the Muntinlupa Local Government Unit (LGU), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC).  This one-day event provides jobseekers, particularly those interested in the IT-Business Process Management (BPM) business, with a streamlined path from job screening to skill training and re-employment.

A job seeker reviews a list of job vacancies while a uniformed professional helps them with information at the SM Job Fair.

The fair begins with an on-site job matching session, during which walk-in and registered applicants can interview with participating employers.  Qualified candidates may be employed on the spot, while "near-hires" will be directed to the Skills Hub for individualized consultations provided by DTI-PTTC.

Applicants can meet future employers at the first-ever Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Jobs and Skills Matching Fair in SM Center Muntinlupa on June 19.

Jobseekers will be evaluated individually using the Philippine Skills Framework (PSF) at the Skills Job seekers will receive one-on-one evaluations at the Skills Hub based on the Philippine Skills Framework (PSF).  This identifies any skill gaps and suggests personalized training programs and career paths.  TESDA will subsequently connect these potential hires with recognized training institutes and possible scholarship opportunities.

After finishing their upskilling journey, participants will be reconnected with partner employers, enabling a full-circle career funnel from application to job readiness.

While this is a low-key trial, it represents a significant step toward developing more responsive, skills-based employment solutions. 

The Jobs and Skills Matching Fair represents a new generation of job fairs, focusing on real-time skill development and industry needs rather than resumes and job openings.

Join the movement. Start something life-changing.

This is more than just another employment fair; it's a one-stop opportunity center.  Aside from hundreds of job openings and on-the-spot hiring, attendees can get skills training, career advice, and essential government services from 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.

From interview to hired—SM Supermalls empowers jobseekers to land their dream roles.

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.

SM Prime’s Hans Sy champions private sector leadership in disaster resilience at UNDRR Global Platform 2025

Hans Sy speaking in the 8th Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GP2025), organized by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction and co-chaired by the Government of Switzerland.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) Executive Committee Chairman Hans Sy emphasized the private sector's critical role in disaster risk reduction (DRR) at the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction's (UNDRR) 2025 Global Platform in Geneva, Switzerland. 

Sy, representing the Philippine private sector at the Ministerial Roundtable on “Accelerating Financing and Resilience,” emphasized how businesses may contribute to the development of scalable, science-based resilience solutions.

Private sector as a force multiplier in DRR

“Resilience strengthens businesses while safeguarding lives and communities. We know the government cannot do it alone. The private sector is ready to do more. Disasters may be unpredictable, but their impacts don’t have to be. We can—and must—prepare, mitigate, and adapt. From the standpoint of the private sector, financial, non-financial and regulatory incentives are among the most effective ways to accelerate investment in resilience. Together, we can embed resilience to build a sustainable and secure future for all.” ~Hans Sy, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) Executive Committee Chairman

Sy underscores the need for policies, incentives, and institutional support to scale up disaster risk reduction investments at the UNDRR Global Platform 2025.

He emphasized SM Prime's comprehensive approach to disaster risk reduction, which involves committing a major amount of project costs to disaster-resilient infrastructure and using science-based planning frameworks.

Sy also cited cross-sector efforts like 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 successful public-private collaborations.

Embedding resilience into core business strategy

In a High-Level Dialogue on Scaling DRR Financing, Sy described SM Prime's approach to integrating resilience into its developments.  He emphasized characteristics such as raised mall buildings, built-in rainwater collecting systems, and earthquake-resistant designs—solutions that have reduced disturbance and allowed for speedy recovery in the aftermath of disaster.

The SM Mall of Asia Complex features a higher seawall and elevated design to guard against rising sea levels. (Inset) Deep, wide drainage channels—large enough to fit two buses side by side—further protect the area from storm surge flooding.

Call to scale resilience investment

To expand DRR financing, Sy called for enabling mechanisms that combine policy support, institutional cooperation, and targeted incentives. 

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.

SM Prime’s year one toward a waste-free future

Shoppers can conveniently drop off old gadgets for proper recycling through SM Supermalls’ E-Waste Collection in partnership with PLDT and Smart at Cyberzone.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Philippines creates over 60,000 metric tons of waste every day, a figure that is predicted to rise as cities grow and economic activity increases.

Recognizing the urgency, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) launched the SM Waste-Free Future program in 2024 as one of its flagship environmental sustainability programs, with the goal of reducing overall waste generation through effective waste segregation and diverting waste away from landfills through recycling, composting, and other sustainable disposal methods.

Together as one community, 2024 marks the launch of SM Waste-Free Future in SM Mall of Asia.

In its first year, it developed a new waste management segregation system throughout its assets, which included all malls, residences, workplaces, hotels, convention centers, and estates around the country.

Beyond SM Prime, the waste campaign has expanded to other SM groups and portfolio firms, transforming SM Waste-Free Future into a group-wide initiative.

A bigger picture of waste

The Recyclable, Disposable, Composable (RDC) bins are central to the program’s segregation practice. RDC makes it simple and consistent, providing key visual cues to bin it right.

Together for an SM Waste-Free Future, the Recyclable, Disposable, Composable (RDC) bins at SM Store branches support the broader goals of environmental sustainability through clear and effective waste segregation practices.

Despite its early stages, the swift and widespread integration demonstrates SM Prime's capacity to operationalize sustainability across several asset classes and ecosystems, reinforcing the company's commitment to creative waste diversion solutions.

SM Prime also recognizes SM Retail's efforts to advance a zero-waste future.  All SM Store locations have successfully implemented RDC bins, while SM Markets continues to implement its reusable bag system.  Goldilocks Bakeshop has also adopted the RDC system in all of its SM Supermall outlets to help with trash management efforts.

Creating opportunities to expand

Collaboration with other groups paves the way for the job ahead.  SM Waste-Free Future improves tenant participation for SM Supermalls and SM Offices, assisting businesses with similar waste-reduction aims in aligning with their worldwide sustainability policies.

Similarly, it supports SM Hotels' innovative back-of-house operations, food waste policy, and textile recycling program.  The SM Hotels Tela Tales program upcycles almost 2,000 yards of soiled linen into sustainable items while also providing a source of income for women in partner areas.

Recognizing the importance of technology in providing answers, SM Waste-Free Future has strengthened relationships with other organizations.  SM Development Corporation (SMDC) collaborates with Globe's Hapag Movement to rescue surplus food from homeowners, improving the lives of Filipino families enduring involuntary hunger, and diverting domestic food waste from landfills.

In the mall's Cyberzone zones, SM Supermalls' Electronic Waste Collection Program, in collaboration with PLDT and Smart, makes it possible to responsibly dispose of obsolete mobile devices and other electronic equipment.

Join the movement

SM garbage Free Future asks more communities and stakeholders to get involved by properly segregating garbage, participating in local clean-ups and collection activities, and supporting eco-friendly products and practices.

SM Cares' positive reinforcement and appealing social media advertisements target youngsters by encouraging them to adopt better waste segregation habits and become more interested in the state of the planet they will inherit.

SM Cares recently organized communities throughout 18 SM Supermalls countrywide to celebrate World Oceans Day, bringing together over 5,000 volunteers and collecting more than 30,000 kilos of rubbish from shorelines.

Mobilizing for World Oceans Day, SM Cares volunteers unite and act to remove waste that ends up in the oceans.

“Waste-Free Future is more than just a program—it’s a mindset shift. And we’re only getting started. We call on our tenants, partners, and customers to continue the journey with us—because a truly sustainable future is one we build together.” ~Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment

With the growing momentum for a waste-free future, SM Prime believes that a cleaner, more circular Philippines is well within reach.

About SM Prime:

SM Prime is steadfast in its commitment to shaping sustainable and innovative lifestyle cities that drive economic progress and elevate the quality of life for millions of Filipinos. As a catalyst for inclusive growth, the company champions responsible development that creates long-term value for communities.

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Experience What’s First in Cebu

This month of June, your theme is to live in the now, and you have multiple opportunities for joy and fulfillment ahead of you.

What actually makes life satisfying is the ability to create significant memories in the current moment, whether alone or with those you care about.  From sharing delicious meals to celebrating little victories to salvaging the day after a long, difficult week, making the most of today allows you to live your best life.

Enjoy cherishing moments and creating happy memories at 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 do not have to be grand—joy can come from modest victories, small steps, and all the little things you do to appreciate yourself.  Check out these recently opened hangout spots:

After a long wait, the fast-growing Pickup Coffee has finally come at SM Seaside City Cebu with its first-in-SM premium café concept, Pickup Prime, which offers upgraded brews ideal for your productive lifestyle. 

Whether it's your first collecting item or your first time trying out makeup, treating yourself to new items and experiences brings delight and fulfillment. 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 in Cebu.  Our discriminating foodies may look forward to the launch of Salon de Thé by The French Baker, a Parisian-inspired café serving European pastries, gourmet teas, and bistro-style cuisine.

Life is defined by what you do with each waking minute.  Enjoy your time, make moments to remember, and take center stage with plenty of opportunities for delight here in Cebu—only at SM Supermalls, where you will experience 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.