Get Ready to Beat Tag-Init with NESTEA!

The hotter your moves, the cooler your NESTEA prizes at Market Market this April 26.

We know this summer is hot AF!! And with its unique activation, NESTEA is here to help you beat the heat.  You deserve to cool off more NESTEA the hotter your actions are!  In collaboration with 7-Eleven, NESTEA will offer thermal scanners this Saturday to measure your body temperature and give away cool goodies!

Anticipate an afternoon filled with Instagram-worthy activities, unique gifts, and bottomless NESTEA in your favorite refreshing flavors to quench your thirst!  Market!  Taguig on Saturday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Everyone is welcome to this event.  Nestea will help you conquer tag-init, whether you're a student in between courses, a commuter melting on the go, or a "work-from-anywhere" warrior!  Calm down, have some fun, and remember to use the hashtag #NESTEABeatTagInit when sharing your experience.  This is where your FOMO will begin!  Thus, don't pass up the opportunity to chill off—only with NESTEA.

Bounty Fresh launched the "Baon Food" effort to ease healthful meal preparation and effectively communicate the Pinoy love language

Filipinos, who are kind and nurturing, express their affection via food. Are you a kuma? This is the most frequently requested question by family members and guests.  Typically, kids leave home with a paban. The culture of nurture includes the practice of preparing and carrying packed lunches to work, school, or on leisure vacations.

Bounty Fresh invented "Basta Baon, Bounty Fresh" to make packed meal preparation easier and more convenient, taking into account the endearing Pinoy trait and the fast-paced lifestyle.  Now it's easy to produce effortless baon: hunger-easing nibbles or tasty, conveniently packaged "ulam" for enjoyment away from home.

The effort aims to help parents, partners, students, and professionals prepare fresh and convenient meals for school, work, and travel.  This demonstrates the company's dedication to delivering high-quality meal options for busy Filipinos.

There are "Crispy and Crunchy Options" - a collection of breaded chicken items manufactured from 100% chicken meat, including Nuggets, Sticks, Chicken Popcorn, Mixed Shape Nuggets, and Chomps, which are convenient and delightful options for a fast bite or as part of a bigger meal.

"Savory Sensations" offers ready-to-cook sariwa, malinis, and pre-seasoned meats such as Pork Tapa, Pork Tocino, Garlic Longganisa, and Chorizo Style de Cebu, delivering real Filipino flavors with minimal preparation.

There are also "Baon Essentials"--high-quality, golden yolk Premium Eggs that can jumpstart the day with a protein-rich meal in and of themselves, as well as a variety of fresh chicken cuts raised with No Antibiotics Ever, including whole and marinated options for those who prefer to cook from scratch.

"We understand the daily juggling act our consumers face. Preparing baon should not be a source of stress. Through 'Basta Baon, Bounty Fresh,' we are providing practical solutions that allow individuals and families to enjoy fresh, delicious meals, no matter how packed or busy their schedule is. Basta Baon, Bounty Fresh” initiative aligns with Bounty Fresh's broader "The One You Deserve" thrust that emphasizes the company's dedication to supporting consumers in making healthy and convenient food choices. The launch comes at a time when, according to a recent study by Food Industry Asia (FIA), 81% of Filipinos recognize their personal responsibility in maintaining a healthy, balanced diet. Bounty Fresh aims to bridge the gap between this desire and the realities of time-constrained meal preparation.” ~Stephanie Guerrero, Vice President for Marketing of Bounty Plus Inc.

Bounty Fresh additionally highlights its function as a reliable partner in the poultry goods market, ensuring quality and freshness.  The "Basta Baon, Bounty Fresh" campaign exemplifies this commitment by providing accessible and convenient options for daily meal preparation.  

Consumers are urged to explore the Bounty Fresh product line to see how they may streamline their meal preparation routines and enjoy delicious, worry-free baon every day.

The "Basta Baon, Bounty Fresh" goods are currently available at www.bountyfreshmarket.ph, as well as in top supermarkets and online grocery shops countrywide.

About Bounty Fresh:

Bounty Fresh is one of the leading providers of fresh and processed poultry and meat products in the Philippines. Committed to quality, freshness, and innovation, Bounty Fresh offers a wide range of products to meet the diverse needs of Filipino consumers. With a focus on making meal preparation easier and more enjoyable, Bounty Fresh continues to be a trusted name in Filipino households.

Caloocan LGU Opens Business One-Stop-Shop at SM Center Sangandaan

Business owners line up at the newly opened Caloocan Business One-Stop-Shop Center at SM Center Sangandaan to process permits, pay taxes, and access government services with greater convenience.

Caloocan's local government recently opened the Caloocan Business One-Stop-Shop center at SM Center Sangandaan, taking a big step toward making public services more accessible and business-friendly.

Designed to expedite commercial transactions, the newly launched facility intends to ease the registration and compliance procedure for the city's entrepreneurs and business owners.

Caloocan City Mayor Along Malapitan and SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Operations Ana T. Datu lead the ceremonial ribbon-cutting during the inauguration of the Caloocan Business One-Stop-Shop center at SM Center Sangandaan.

City authorities stated that the mall-based center will consolidate a variety of government functions under one roof, providing convenience to constituents while also stimulating local economic growth.  The mall-based center now offers services such as business tax and real property tax payments, business permit renewal, new business registration, application receipt for building, occupancy permission, zoning clearance processing, and payment of community tax certificates, or cedula.

With its newest satellite office at SM Center Sangandaan, Caloocan City reinforces its commitment to becoming a Business-Friendly City—offering easier, faster, and more accessible government services for entrepreneurs and residents alike.

SM Center Sangandaan, strategically positioned in the center of North Caloocan's commercial hub, was chosen as the site to make government services more accessible to the public, particularly the city's burgeoning entrepreneurial population.

The establishment of the business center is consistent with the city's overarching goal of improving public service efficiency and promoting ease of doing business—a critical measure for attracting more investments and formalizing more businesses within the city.

AirAsia Philippines Offers Guests a Summer Food Adventure onboard

AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla shares the newest Santan refreshing drinks with guests at the NAIA Terminal 3 check-in counter.

As the summer season heats up, AirAsia Philippines is upgrading customers' inflight travel experience with a selection of inexpensive summer menu options from Santan, the airline’s f&b service partner.

Santan has released its new season menu, which allows passengers to select their favorite summer tastes while onboard, including light snack combos paired with a choice of Santan beverages such as Hot or Iced Americano, Jasmine Tea, Hot Chocolate, or the crowd-favorite Coconut Latte for as little as Php 150.

Santan's viral Halo-Halo Drink, which was previously exclusively available for pre-booking, is now available for onboard orders beginning today for PHP 150, with additional beverages like as Raspberry Lychee Jasmine Tea and Fizzy Raspberry Lychee.

“Gone are the days when inflight meals were ordered with hesitation because of its price. At AirAsia, we’re changing the game by making it more accessible through our Santan’s summer sips and bites to keep our guests cool and satisfied. Our brand promise of democratizing air travel goes beyond low air fares, it extends to every part of the journey, even 30,000 feet in the air.” ~First Officer Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines Communications and Corporate Affairs Head

Santan is also increasing its environmental efforts by replacing all in-flight single-use plastics with biodegradable replacements derived from renewable sources such as corn and cassava.  The eco-friendly switch has already begun in Malaysia and Thailand, with plans to expand throughout the AirAsia Group.

About AirAsia Philippines

AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier with licenses to operate in five Asean countries—Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, AirAsia has stayed true to its purpose and tagline "Now Everyone Can Fly". The airline has made flying affordable and accessible to over 800 million guests, connecting people and communities across more than 130 destinations. Today, as one of the largest airlines in the region, AirAsia is expanding to become the world's first global low cost network carrier. It operates more than 200 aircraft and holds a significant orderbook for the next decade. AirAsia leads in sustainable aviation with green initiatives and a net zero target by 2050. In 2023, it avoided 130,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from its narrowbody regional network through 20+ efficiency measures, saving US$40 million in fuel and over US$388,000 in shadow carbon costs.

Stay Cool, Spend Less: Get KuryenTIPID Refrigerators with Home Credit’s Swakto Summer Deals

Summer in the Philippines is more than simply beach days and cold drinks; it's also when the heat causes your refrigerator to work overtime. Without reliable cooling, food spoils faster, resulting in waste and additional expenditures. However, buying a refrigerator is about more than just size and price. A truly "sulit" and "abot-kaya" investment must be energy-efficient. Traditional refrigerators can increase electricity expenditures, especially during the summer. That is why inverter refrigerators are the better choice because they adjust power usage to keep food fresh while lowering energy expenditures.

Home Credit, the country's top consumer credit provider, is offering Swakto Summer Deals to help Filipino households purchase a low-cost, high-quality refrigerator.  Customers can purchase inverter refrigerators for as low as ₱23 per day with numerous payment options, including 0% interest and zero down payment.

Here’s a lineup of KuryenTIPID Refrigerators available through Home Credit’s Swakto Summer Deals, ensuring that your food stays fresh, your drinks stay cool, and your electricity bill stays manageable.

Panasonic NR-BP242VD: Chill Smart, keep Fresh

For those wishing to minimize electricity use while keeping their food fresher for longer.  The Panasonic 8.6 cu ft No Frost Inverter Two-Door Refrigerator (NR-BP242VD) is a wonderful alternative.  With Prime+ Cooling technology, this refrigerator provides exceptional cooling that preserves food without freezing it.  Its AG Clean feature eliminates 99.99% of bacteria and odors, keeping the refrigerator clean at all times.  The Fresh Safe compartment maintains appropriate humidity levels to keep fruits and vegetables fresh.  The no-frost cooling technology eliminates the need for manual defrosting, making it a convenient and hassle-free option.  Home Credit offers this model for as low as ₱683 a month for 24 months, making it an ideal investment for families seeking efficiency and affordability.

Samsung RT22M4033UT/TC: The Cool Keeper

The Samsung 8.4cu ft Top Mount No-Frost Inverter Two-Door Refrigerator (RT22M4033UT/TC) is a good option for people searching for a refrigerator with intelligent cooling capabilities.  Its Digital Inverter Technology helps save energy by removing frost accumulation and modifying cooling speed according on family demands.  The Optimal Fresh Zone eliminates the trouble of defrosting by keeping meat and seafood fresh for twice as long without freezing.  While the deodorizing filter keeps offensive odors at bay, the All-Around Cooling System guarantees uniform temperature distribution.  This refrigerator is a fantastic alternative for anyone who desire a mix between efficiency and convenience, with a starting price of ₱20,534 and an 18-month installment plan of ₱896 per month.

LG GR-B202SQBB: The Quiet & Efficient Cooler

The LG 7.2 cubic foot Two-Door Smart Inverter No Frost Refrigerator (GR-B202SQBB) is another fantastic alternative. This model has a Smart Inverter Compressor, which ensures consistent cooling with low noise.  The Moist Balance Crisper retains moisture, allowing fruits and vegetables to stay fresh for longer. The Multi-Air Flow cooling technology ensures that every corner of the refrigerator is evenly chilled. Its tempered glass shelves can hold up to 150kg, providing plenty of storage space house Credit Swakto Summer offers this model for as low as ₱77 per month for 18 months, making it an affordable and elegant addition to any house.

Panasonic NR-BQ261VB: Turbo Cooling, Turbo Savings

For individuals who require extra storage space, the Panasonic 9.4 cu ft Two-Door Direct Cool Inverter Refrigerator (NR-BQ261VB) includes a jumbo freezer and Turbo Freezing technology, which ensures rapid cooling while remaining energy efficient.  This refrigerator is a wise investment because it includes a built-in deodorizer to keep it fresh and an Econavi function that regulates cooling based on living choices.  Starting at ₱22,819 (or ₱756 per month for 24 months), this cooling system is suitable for bigger households seeking a spacious and reliable option.

Condura CTD-102MNi: The Big & Bold Chiller

The Condura 10.2 Cu.  ft.  Another excellent option is the Two-Door Manual Defrost Refrigerator (CTD-102MNi), which has an aluminum freezer that gives additional storage capacity for frozen foods.  With adjustable and tiltable wire shelves, this model provides flexibility in food storage.  Its direct cooling method provides effective cooling while lowering electricity bills.  The refrigerator also has a built-in bottle shelf for convenience.  Priced at ₱24,398, with an 18-month installment plan of ₱1,011 each month, it is ideal for families looking for large storage without sacrificing energy efficiency.

Panasonic NR-BP292VD: The Premium Chiller for Every Home

For individuals looking for cutting-edge cooling technology, the Panasonic 10.4 cu ft Two-Door No-Frost Inverter Refrigerator (NR-BP292VD) is an excellent alternative.  This model includes AI Econavi and Inverter Technology, which helps to cut energy use while maintaining optimal cooling.  Prime Cooling+ keeps food fresh for longer, and the AG Clean feature removes bacteria and odors.  With a large freezer and No-Frost technology, this refrigerator is both roomy and simple to maintain.  Starting at ₱26,398, or ₱1,059 a month for 18 months, this product is ideal for households looking for efficient and superior cooling functions.

Enjoy Swakto Summer Deals for your KuryenTIPID Refrigerator!

Are you ready to upgrade?  If you want to purchase a high-quality inverter refrigerator, take advantage of Home Credit's Swakto Summer Deals.  These flexible installment plans enable Filipinos to invest in important cooling appliances without exceeding their budget.  Whether for a tiny apartment or a large family home, there is a KuryenTIPID Refrigerator to meet your needs.

Interested buyers can visit Home Credit’s over 15,000+ partner stores across 75+ provinces to avail of the coolest Swakto Summer Deals. All you need is to present one valid ID, and, if eligible, you can get approved for any installment plan in as fast as one minute.

Home Credit makes shopping for appliances and gadgets easier than ever. With Shoppingmall.ph, you can browse a complete list of Swakto Summer offers, compare options, and find the nearest store where your chosen item is available. For even more convenience, download the Home Credit App on Google Play, the App Store, or Huawei AppGallery to check your eligibility and get pre-approved for product installments—hassle-free!

To learn more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.  
  
Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).   

About Home Credit

Home Credit Philippines is the financial ally of every Filipino, providing access to credit through fast, convenient, and affordable financing in more than 15,000 partner stores nationwide. The company offers financing for a wide range of products and commodities—from smartphones and laptops to home appliances and furniture, bicycles, and motorcycle accessories to electronics and hardware, sports equipment, and many more—at low or 0% interest rates in easy monthly installments.

In its 11th year in the Philippines, Home Credit has served 11 million Filipinos. Beyond installment financing and related coverage plans, Home Credit also offers cash loans, a virtual spending limit named Qwarta, and a credit card for its existing qualified customers. With the My Home Credit app and the Shoppingmall.ph website, Filipino customers are just a click away from getting the products and offers they want to enable them to live more rewarding lives.

More information on HCPH is available at www.homecredit.ph.

AirAsia Philippines Launches 14 Million Seat Sale for Easter

In honor of Easter, AirAsia Philippines is reintroducing its highly anticipated "All Seats, All Flights" promotion, which offers up to 25% off 14 million seats across all domestic and international destinations served by AirAsia Philippines.

This special ticket sale, known as an Easter Egg Hunt for flights, allows visitors to buy prices for as little as PHP 284 one-way base rate from April 21 to April 27, 2025, for travel between April 28 and November 30, 2025.

“Easter is a time of hope, renewal, and fresh start. This seat sale is our way of celebrating the season by giving everyone the opportunity to take flight, create new memories, and enjoy more meaningful journeys without breaking the bank. We know many of our guests spend a lot on family gatherings and travel over the holidays, so any extra savings can go a long way in making the most of the summer ahead.” ~First Officer Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Head

Following the Holy Week travel rush, AirAsia Philippines expects an increase in guests flying back to work.  AirAsia Philippines actively monitors passenger flow and flight operations at its domestic and international hubs to ensure a seamless and safe travel experience.

About AirAsia Philippines

AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier with licenses to operate in five Asean countries—Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, AirAsia has stayed true to its purpose and tagline "Now Everyone Can Fly". The airline has made flying affordable and accessible to over 800 million guests, connecting people and communities across more than 130 destinations. Today, as one of the largest airlines in the region, AirAsia is expanding to become the world's first global low cost network carrier. It operates more than 200 aircraft and holds a significant orderbook for the next decade. AirAsia leads in sustainable aviation with green initiatives and a net zero target by 2050. In 2023, it avoided 130,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from its narrowbody regional network through 20+ efficiency measures, saving US$40 million in fuel and over US$388,000 in shadow carbon costs.

SM’s ‘We’ve Got it All For You’ strategy captures growing Gen Z market

The SM Store offers a broad product range that appeals to different market segments, making it a one-stop shop for all.

SM Investments Corporation’s (SM Investments) retail arm, SM Retail, Inc., is reaching new consumer markets, particularly the rapidly growing Gen Z demographic. Data from the SM Store, the department store business of SM Retail, reveals a 13% increase in in-store purchases by young shoppers in 2024, signaling a shift in consumer behavior and a rising preference for physical retail experiences.

“Our strategy has always been ‘We’ve got it all for you.’  SM Store offers a broad product range that appeals to different market segments, making it a one-stop shop for all. We’re also placing greater emphasis on engaging with Gen Z. While Gen X and Millennials still lead in terms of purchasing power, we’re strategically investing in Gen Z as they become an increasingly influential consumer group. Filipino shoppers, especially Gen Z, are more experiential and tactile in their shopping preferences. At SM Store, we are dedicated to evolving to meet these expectations, investing in modern store designs and enhancing customer service to stay ahead of the curve. SM is all about excellent customer service.” ~Jonathan Ng, Executive Vice President at SM Retail

This increase in Gen Z shoppers reflects the growing purchasing power of this demographic.

Gen X, ages 45 to 60, are those born between 1965 and 1980, and Millennials, ages 29 to 44, are born between 1981 and 1996. Gen Z, ages 13 to 28 or born between 1997 and 2012, currently makes up 38% of the Philippine population according to the recent census by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

With 41 million Gen Zs, SM Retail is well-positioned to capitalize on this segment. A 2024 study by The Fourth Wall and Uniquecorn Strategies revealed that 31% of Filipino Gen Zs prefer shopping in physical stores, valuing the experience of products they can see and touch.

This trend mirrors a broader global shift. A January 2025 report by Adyen, published by Retail Dive, found that nearly three-quarters of global Gen Z consumers shop in-person at least once a week, viewing it as an integral part of their lifestyle.

SM Retail has also focused on improving the customer experience through strategic partnerships, such as one with Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (CBTL), which aims to create a more delightful in-store environment.  This emphasis on in-store savings, convenience, and the chance to instantly own things is consistent with Generation Z's desires.

Noting the presence of personal shoppers who are always ready to assist customers.

SM shop continues to innovate, adapting its inventory selection, shop layouts, and overall customer experience to match the demands of a rapidly changing retail landscape.  This dedication to quality is evident in SM Retail's strong financial success.  In 2024, the company reported a net income of PHP 20.9 billion, a 5% rise over the previous year, with retail revenues up 5% to PHP 434.5 billion, up from PHP 412.9 billion in 2023.

SM Retail's continued development and ability to engage with various customer categories strengthens its leadership position in the Philippine retail market, contributing considerably to the group's parent company, SM Investments' outstanding financial performance.

About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is one of the leading Philippine companies that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM’s retail operations are the country’s largest and most diversified, consisting of grocery stores, department stores and specialty retail stores. SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM’s interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest private domestic bank.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

For inquiries, please contact: smic_corpcomm@sminvestments.com