DTI, PRA, and SCMAP launch “Job Blueprint” with SM Supermalls

The future of employment in the Philippines; wholesale and retail trade sector got a major boost on June 16, 2025. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), together with the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) and the Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP), officially launched Section G: Job Blueprint for the Wholesale and Retail Trade Sector at SM City North EDSA. The initiative included a two-day job fair, offering immediate hiring opportunities to Filipino job seekers.

(L-R): Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP) President Dennis Llovido, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Engelbert Chua, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, and Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) President Roberto Claudio Sr. attend the media launch of the Section G: Job Blueprint for Wholesale and Retail Trade on June 16, 2025, at SM North EDSA.

The Section G Job Blueprint, developed through extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, highlights the strong collaboration between government, the private sector, and mall leadership to address workforce gaps in retail and supply chain. Serving as a foundation for future reforms, it aims to boost employment growth by leveraging the sector’s vital contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and its role as a key employer of over 10 million Filipinos, according to the DTI.

Industry support and immediate impact

The job fair, which offered hundreds of career opportunities from leading retailers and logistics providers, drew a diverse crowd of job seekers eager to engage with PRA and SCMAP member companies recruiting for roles in merchandising, warehousing, logistics, and frontline retail.

“This is more than just a job fair—it’s a call to action. We are proud to partner with DTI, PRA, and SCMAP in hosting this meaningful initiative that connects people to opportunity and promotes inclusive employment.” ~Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President of Marketing at SM Supermalls

In the photo: SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Job Fairs Royce Cabunag, Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) President Roberto Claudio Sr., and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Engelbert Chua at the launch of the two-day Section G: Job Blueprint for the Wholesale and Retail Trade Sector job fair at SM North EDSA.

SM Supermalls, as host venue and promotional partner, reinforced its commitment to national workforce development and economic recovery. This event is part of SM’s ongoing support for programs that empower micro-, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), job seekers, and industry players.

With Section G now officially launched, stakeholders look forward to implementing its key recommendations and building a stronger, more resilient retail trade sector for all.

About SM Supermalls Job Fairs 

SM Supermalls, a division of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the Philippines' leading developer, operator, and owner of world-class malls. SM Supermalls is dedicated to fostering sustainable and community-centric developments. Through initiatives like job fairs, SM Supermalls continues to play a pivotal role in nation-building, offering opportunities that transform lives and contribute to the well-being of Filipino communities.

SM Proudly Celebrated Local MSMEs at DTI Wedding Fair at SMX Aura

MSME designers wowed guests with their collection of bridal gowns, groom’s suits, and entourage wear—featuring silhouettes that range from classic romance to modern minimalist, all crafted with Filipino finesse.

Love, tradition, and local entrepreneurship shared the spotlight at the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025, held from June 27 to 29 at SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the three-day event successfully showcased over 100 Filipino MSMEs, celebrating Filipino creativity while driving real business opportunities in the events and wedding industry.

The fair welcomed industry professionals, wedding planners, creatives, and couples preparing for their big day to explore everything from couture bridalwear and floral arrangements to photography, catering, travel services, and more. The highlight of Day 1 was a runway fashion show featuring Filipino bridal designers, who elevated traditional fabrics and sustainable design for the modern bride. Day 2 and 3 featured talks and interactive exhibits spotlighting creative industries—from graphic design and stationery to music and event production—showing how weddings can reflect both personal stories and cultural pride.

Filipino tradition met timeless elegance at MSME booths featuring modern takes on the Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana—from hand-embroidered details to contemporary silhouettes perfect for formal Filipino weddings

A unique highlight at the DTI Wedding Fair: MSMEs showcased elegant Capiz shell dining wear—from plates and chargers to napkin holders and centerpieces—blending sustainability with sophistication.

Filipino-made bridal jewelry and accessories took the spotlight at the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025, with MSME booths showcasing handcrafted tiaras, pearl earrings, heirloom rings, and bridal bling rooted in Filipino

Filipino bridal designers wowed the crowd with modern, sustainable, and culturally rooted creations at the Wedding Fair Fashion Show—proudly highlighting Tatak Pinoy talent.

In essence, the 2025 Wedding Fair was more than an event—it was a celebration of love, culture, and entrepreneurship, underlining that when Filipino MSMEs thrive, our communities—and the nation—grow stronger, faster, and more beautiful.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

SM Supermalls, owned by SM Prime Holdings, is the leading mall developer and operator in the Philippines. As a staunch advocate for MSMEs, SM Supermalls is dedicated to helping Filipino entrepreneurs succeed. Join our thriving marketplace across 80+ malls nationwide. Visit msme.smsupermalls.com to download your MSME application or email us at customercare@smsupermalls.com with your most innovative product and preferred location. Don't miss this opportunity to grow your business with SM Supermalls today!

Community at Work: SM Cares Joins Brigada Eskwela 2025

With every wipe and every gesture of care, SM City Novaliches volunteers bring classrooms closer to a brighter, cleaner start.

In support of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) annual Brigada Eskwela initiative, SM Supermalls mobilized thousands of volunteers across its malls nationwide from June 9 to 13, 2025, to help prepare public schools for the upcoming academic year. This year’s Brigada Eskwela carried the theme, “Nagkakaisa para sa Handa at Ligtas na Pagbabalik Eskwela.”

Driven by the spirit of bayanihan, SM employee volunteers join Brigada Eskwela to help public schools prepare for the new academic year—fostering cleaner, safer, and more welcoming spaces where students and communities can thrive.

SM employees in action—offering their hands and hearts to help schools gear up for another inspiring year of learning.

SM North EDSA volunteers sweep hallways for Brigada Eskwela—helping create clean, focused spaces where students can learn and grow.

As a long-time DepEd partner, SM Supermalls once again participated in Brigada Eskwela 2025 as part of its broader commitment to youth empowerment, environmental stewardship, and inclusive community building.

The initiative was rolled out across 75 SM Supermalls, with more than a thousand employee-volunteers working hand-in-hand with DepEd, local government units (LGUs), school representatives, and community members. It empowered community volunteers to make a tangible impact by helping schools prepare safe, clean, and inspiring learning environments.

“We are proud to be part of Brigada Eskwela again this year. Education is the cornerstone of nation-building, and through volunteerism and shared responsibility, we aim to help create safe and welcoming learning spaces for students all across the country.” ~Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls

An employee volunteer from SM Center Pasig organizes learning materials as part of Brigada Eskwela efforts to support public school readiness.

With every wipe and every gesture of care, SM City Novaliches volunteers bring classrooms closer to a brighter, cleaner start.

Demonstrating hands-on commitment, an employee volunteer from SM City Baliwag carefully stacks hollow blocks—contributing to stronger school infrastructure.

Embodying the spirit of bayanihan, SM City Sorsogon employee volunteers paint school chairs with dedication—bringing new life to classrooms through Brigada Eskwela.

Employee volunteers from SM Center Ormoc paint classrooms as part of Brigada Eskwela, helping create more inspiring learning spaces where students can thrive.

An SM City Mindpro volunteer helps clean the school grounds during Brigada Eskwela—making way for brighter days and better learning.

SM employee-volunteers engaged in a wide range of preparatory activities including classroom cleaning and disinfection, repainting of walls and learning spaces, repairs of desks and chairs, and the turnover of essential learning materials. Through shared efforts, this annual initiative not only enhanced school facilities but also strengthened community ties and encouraged a culture of unity, pride, and collective responsibility for education.

The program benefited 66 public schools across the country, helping ensure that thousands of Filipino learners return to a clean, safe, and functional learning environment when classes resume.

By supporting Brigada Eskwela 2025, SM Supermalls reinforces its continued support and alignment with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, reflecting its commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable development in every community it serves.

This initiative also forms part of SM’s broader advocacy under SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, which champions programs for Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, the Environment, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth and Bike-Friendly initiatives.

For more updates on SM’s social good initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or follow @OfficialSMCares on social media.

SM Supermalls elevates urban air quality

Bikers enjoy the convenience of secure parking as SM Supermalls champions eco-friendly transport solutions.

There’s nothing quite like strolling through a mall with breathtaking views, expansive arcades, and lush greenery. At SM Supermalls, shopping isn’t just about transactions—it’s about enjoying spaces designed for comfort, sustainability, and a healthier environment. More than ever, SM’s commitment to green infrastructure is shaping urban air quality while creating a more livable city for everyone.

Designing for people and the planet

SM Supermalls prioritizes people-centric design, creating welcoming spaces that balance nature with modern convenience. The SM Mall of Asia’s arcades and the MOA Sky, for example, offer open, breezy walkways, encouraging leisurely strolls and even outdoor dining and entertainment. Meanwhile, SM Aura and SM North EDSA’s Sky Garden—the first in an SM mall—integrates lush vegetation and water features to reduce indoor heat, improve air quality, and create cooling effects in dense urban areas.

SM North EDSA houses the first Sky Garden in an SM mall, highlighting endemic plants and water features that bring nature onto a rooftop.

The SM MOA Sky showcases greenery and open-air spaces that promote cleaner, cooler urban living.

Championing bike-friendly cities

Beyond providing open spaces, SM Supermalls is leading bike-friendly initiatives, with over 5,000 bike parking spaces across its properties. Studies show that replacing short car trips with biking can cut carbon emissions by up to 90%, significantly reducing air pollution and its long-term impact on climate change.

Cyclists gather at SM Seaside City Cebu, championing greener, healthier urban mobility.

Greening malls with native flora

Additionally, select SM malls feature endemic plant species that enhance air quality and support local biodiversity, filtering pollutants while creating a natural habitat for urban wildlife. These green spaces are designed not just for aesthetics but to actively contribute to a healthier environment.

Making public transport more convenient

To make sustainable transport more accessible, SM Supermalls operates transport terminals that support public transportation, providing seamless connections to buses, jeepneys, and other modes of transit. These terminals encourage commuters to opt for public transport, which can significantly reduce individual carbon footprints and traffic congestion, contributing to cleaner air and more efficient urban mobility.

Powering the shift to EVs

Recognizing the need for cleaner transportation, SM Supermalls has also installed Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) in 69 malls nationwide. By providing essential infrastructure for electric vehicles, SM is helping to lower carbon emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels—a crucial step in improving urban air quality. Studies indicate that EVs produce up to 60% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles, making them a key solution for reducing pollution in crowded city centers.

Monitoring air, empowering communities

SM’s commitment to sustainability extends to air quality monitoring, ensuring that urban pollution levels are tracked and addressed. Under SM Prime Holdings, the company partnered with Quezon City to establish an air quality monitoring system that records environmental data and provides updates through a publicly accessible website. This initiative allows communities to stay informed while encouraging long-term strategies for a cleaner, healthier urban space.

SM Supermalls monitors air quality in real time, empowering communities with data for cleaner, healthier cities.

A greener future for urban living

From green roofs and bike-friendly amenities to EVCS and air quality monitoring, SM Supermalls is redefining retail spaces with a deeper environmental purpose. Every visit to an SM mall contributes to a better urban future, where sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.

40 years of building better communities

Celebrating 40 years of serving communities, SM Supermalls continues to lead as a shopping and lifestyle destination in the Philippines. True to its legacy, SM remains at the forefront of environmental sustainability through pioneering waste, water and energy innovations as well as disaster resilience initiatives.

CDO's Bold New Firsts Begin at SM Supermalls

Craving for some mouthwatering seafood? How about freshly brewed coffee, ready to go? This month, it’s all about what you want—check out these newly opened food and beverage spots heading your way.

You have all the reasons to make life more rewarding with these new firsts. From indulgent  dining to quick coffee breaks, you deserve nothing but the best to satisfy your cravings. 

Have a truly fulfilling day and give yourself limitless possibilities to live the good life with SM Supermalls—right here in Cagayan de Oro City.

Fresh Eats Straight from the Sea at Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant

Experience a unique dining experience with Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant—a bold new take on Filipino culinary traditions perfect for every seafood lover.

This pork-free restaurant offers flavorful dishes with a modern twist, including their signature Balangay Seafood Boil: a hearty platter of fresh seafood served in a custom-built Balangay-style boat—honoring Filipino heritage in a festive spread. Each dish is carefully plated with built-in burners, keeping the food deliciously hot and freshly cooked right at your table.

Indulge in the sea’s bounty, and experience a burst of flavor with this beachside-inspired dining escape at Level 5, SM CDO Downtown.

Coffee On-the-Go with Starbucks Drive-thru

Starbucks, one of the country’s most popular cafés, has opened its first-ever drive-thru store here in Northern Mindanao—giving our busy coffee lovers the convenience of enjoying their favorite blends and brews while on the road.

Kickstart your day with your go-to Iced Latte. Feel adventurous and try one of their seasonal signature brews. Pair your handcrafted coffee or non-coffee drink with a delicious Doughssant. 

Whatever your mood or wherever you go, you can now take Starbucks with you. Whether you’re headed to work, running errands, or just exploring the city, your caffeine fix is always just a quick stop at the North Wing of SM City CDO Uptown.   

Discover new ways to dine—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.

CDA Empowers Cooperatives Through SM Supermalls’ Weekend Market

Lively displays of locally grown vegetables welcome shoppers at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Southmall.

Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and SM Supermalls have officially sealed a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held on Monday, July 1, 2025, at the SM Supermalls Headquarters in Pasay City. The agreement marks the beginning of a joint effort to empower Filipino cooperatives by giving them access to high-foot-traffic mall spaces through the SM Weekend Market — a platform dedicated to showcasing local products, homegrown talent, and Filipino entrepreneurship.

L-R: Royston A. Cabunag, Assistant Vice President and Lead for MSME and Job Fairs, Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls formalized partnership through a MOA signing with CDA Chairperson Usec. Alexander B. Raquepo and CDA Administrator Asec. Santiago S. Lim, that aims to empower Filipino cooperatives through the SM Weekend Market initiative.

The MOA was signed by Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo, CDA Chairperson, and Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls, in the presence of key officials from both institutions. 

“This is a historic partnership between the private and public sectors. We take great pride in this collaboration with SM Supermalls, which represents a powerful step forward in uplifting our micro, small and medium cooperative entrepreneurs. This model partnership will not only provide access to markets, but help elevate the economic well-being of our communities.” ~Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo, CDA Chairperson

Fresh, proudly Filipino produce takes the spotlight supporting local farmers and cooperatives at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Calamba.

Shoppers enjoy direct access to farm-fresh produce at the SM Weekend Market where farmers are given dedicated selling spaces in select SM Supermalls.

Local farmers showcase and sell their fresh harvest to shoppers at the SM Weekend Market, a platform by SM Supermalls that connects producers directly to consumers in high-traffic mall locations.

CDA would support qualified cooperatives nationwide to take part in the SM Weekend Market as part of the arrangement.  Space in strategic mall locations will be made accessible by SM Supermalls in exchange for a small charge, which will only be used to partially offset maintenance expenses.

“The SM Weekend Market was born out of a simple but powerful idea — to give farmers and local producers, especially those in cooperatives, the chance to bring their goods closer to the people, in places they wouldn’t normally have access to. With CDA as our partner, we are excited to open more doors and more mall spaces to co-ops across the country. This partnership will allow more communities to thrive, more stories to be told, and more Filipino-made products to be celebrated.” ~Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations at SM Supermalls

The event marks the start of a nationwide collaboration between CDA and SM Supermalls, with more updates and market rollouts expected in the coming months.

About the SM Weekend Market 

The SM Weekend Market is a community-driven initiative by SM Supermalls that gives farmers and cooperatives direct access to high-foot traffic locations, helping them sell fresh, abundant harvests quickly and sustainably. By providing accessible weekend selling spaces in designated SM mall areas, the Weekend Market connects local producers with urban shoppers — creating a win-win for both communities and consumers. 

More than just a marketplace, the SM Weekend Market is a purposeful movement — empowering grassroots enterprises, boosting local food systems, and fostering deeper community connections through commerce, culture, and collaboration. 

AMA Land - BCDA explore affordable housing opportunities in New Clark City

As part of its ongoing efforts to increase the supply of low-cost housing in New Clark City, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has tapped real estate developer AMA Land, Inc. to explore and study new affordable housing opportunities within the rising metropolis.

On Friday, 13 June 2025, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and AMA Land Chairman Emeritus Dr. Amable R. Aguiluz V signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), which establishes a collaborative framework for the conduct of feasibility and business case studies on a potential affordable housing project within New Clark City.

This partnership aims to bring together the two organizations’ resources and expertise to create sustainable and inclusive housing developments in New Clark City, consistent with their shared goal of building dynamic communities while promoting environmental stewardship and long-term economic growth.

“Together, we will explore how to design homes that are not just affordable, but wellconnected, climate-resilient, and empowering—homes that allow working families to live near jobs, education, and opportunity. We thank AMA Land, led by Dr. Aguiluz, for sharing our belief that development must reach all sectors of society. Together, we are planting the seeds for communities that future generations will inherit with pride.” said Engr. Bingcang

Under the MOU, AMA Land agrees to share its technical expertise and lead the technical assessments, feasibility studies, and business case preparation for the housing project.

Upon completion of these studies, AMA Land will provide recommendations on the project, with focus on sustainability, accessibility and inclusivity in the housing design. This is to ensure that the project will include a diverse range of housing options that can accommodate 

various income levels and family sizes.

"I call BCDA the department that never sleeps. Under PCEO Joshua Bingcang's leadership, Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, the Philippines' longest toll road, now serves as an important milestone. Now, this collaboration between BCDA and AMA Land is aimed at tackling the pressing issues of housing shortage and climate change. Not just in New Clark City, but eventually, in other BCDA properties. This MOU signifies more than just a formal agreement; it represents a shared vision and a concrete step towards addressing critical needs within our nation. Our goal is to design and develop affordable housing projects and sustainable communities within New Clark City." said Dr. Aguiluz V, who also serves as the Special Envoy to Japan for Trade and Investments 

New Clark City is envisioned to be the country's first smart, green and resilient metropolis, masterfully designed to embody the principles of sustainability and inclusivity. At its core, this district is being shaped into a people-centered development—envisioned to enhance the quality of life of Filipinos and empower local communities while catalyzing economic growth.

The development of affordable housing sites in New Clark City contributes to the Marcos administration’s goal of addressing the housing gap in the country. This is also aligned with the Philippine  Development Plan 2023-2028, particularly the strategies to establish livable communities.

Aside from this collaboration with AMA Land, the BCDA has made broad steps to establish low-cost and sustainable housing options in New Clark City. In July 2023, the state-run firm signed a MOU with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) formalizing the two agencies’ partnership under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH).