The National Resilience Council’s colloquium proves resilience thrives in collaboration

The National Resilience Council (NRC) of the Philippines convened a diverse group of stakeholders for the event “From Surviving to Thriving: Transformative Strategies through Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships and Innovations.” As a science and technology-driven public-private partnership, the NRC unites national and local governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector to advance the interconnected objectives of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Sustainable Development Goals, Paris Climate Agreement, New Urban Agenda, and other global commitments.

Held as the 2025 Resilient Local Government Unit Program (RGLUP) Colloquium, the event showcased progress and updates from participating cities and municipalities in the NRC’s Adopt a City (AAC) Initiative. This initiative enables corporations to move beyond disaster relief, investing in risk reduction through preparedness funding, prevention, pre-disaster recovery planning, and long-term resilience programs. By empowering local governments, AAC promotes collaborative efforts to build safer, more resilient communities.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Co-Chairman for the Private Sector Hans Sy, in his message of support, reiterates that resilience is a continuous journey and is a collective responsibility to build on progress, promote innovation, and ensure lasting impact.

The colloquium also welcomed NRC’s private and public sector partners, with notable participation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of National Defense, and the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network. The event opened with inspiring messages from NRC Co-Chairman for the private sector and SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, NRC Vice Chairman for civil service organizations and Zuellig Family Foundation President Austere Panadero, and NRC Vice Chairman for the scientific organizations and academe and Director of the Manila Observatory Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr., NRC Vice Chair for the academe Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin SJ, NRC Co-Chair Hans Sy, and NRC Vice Chair for civil service organizations Austere Panadero listen as participants of the Adopt-a-City Initiative present their progress towards disaster resilience.

Cities in the AAC’s Prepare phase—Baguio, Iligan, Mandaue, and Tiwi, Albay—presented their innovative disaster resilience strategies. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized, “Baguio’s resilience journey highlights the power of collaboration and national support.” Meanwhile, cities in the Adapt and Transform phase, the initiative’s next stages —Naga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Bataan, Manila, and Ormoc—highlighted their advanced strides. Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez shared, “I am very proud to say that because of Project Transform, together with our esteemed partners, Ormoc City is always on track in terms of environmental stewardship and resilience.”

At the National Resilience Council (NRC) Colloquium, local government units in the Adopt-a-City Initiative deliver a public narrative and take part in a panel discussion with leading resilience experts.

Public officials take the opportunity to proudly expound on the programs developed together with the support of the National Resilience Council (NRC) and other partners.

A highlight of the event was the launch of the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss), a tool designed to strengthen local government capabilities in disaster resilience. Drawing from the NRC’s mission, the colloquium underscored the power of multi-stakeholder collaboration in driving transformative change. By bridging sectors and promoting innovation, the NRC and its partners are paving the way for a resilient Philippines.

The National Resilience Council (NRC) Board launches the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss) at the colloquium together with representatives of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of National Defense, the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies - Philippine network, and the City Mayor of Baguio, Hon. Benjamin Magalong, and Mayor of the Municipality of Tiwi, Albay, Hon. Jaime Villanueva.

More than 150 members, partners, supporters and participants of the National Resilience Council (NRC)’s programs came together to celebrate the achievements of local government units in the realm of disaster risk resilience.

Step Forward for Inclusion: Happy Walk 2025 Unites Communities Nationwide

This March 30, 2025, thousands of families, advocates, and supporters will come together to celebrate Happy Walk 2025, a nationwide movement dedicated to fostering awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for individuals with Down Syndrome.

Hosted by SM Cares in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), this year’s event will take place at SMX Convention Center – Manila with simultaneous celebrations at SM City Cebu, SM City Bacolod, and SM CDO Downtown Premier, making it a truly nationwide effort to highlight the abilities and aspirations of individuals with Down Syndrome.

Two Happy Walkers take small, but meaningful steps with support and fanfare from the SM community.

More Than Just a Walk: A Movement for Inclusion

For more than two decades, Happy Walk has been more than an event—it is a powerful movement that highlights the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with Down Syndrome. It is a day of joy, unity, and acceptance, where communities come together to celebrate not just differences, but also shared dreams and aspirations.

“Happy Walk is not just about taking steps; it’s about making a difference. Every year, this event brings people together to reaffirm that individuals with Down Syndrome deserve the same opportunities, recognition, and support as everyone else. It is a celebration of abilities, not limitations,” said Nill Patrick Arroyo, DSAPI Board Member & Head, Happy Walk 2025. 

With the involvement of thousands of volunteers, this event is now more than just a walk—it’s a movement for change.

Participants come together to show love and support for individuals with Down Syndrome.

A Nationwide Call for Participation

With the theme “321 & Beyond”, Happy Walk 2025 is expected to draw thousands of participants, from individuals with Down Syndrome and their families to volunteers, educators, corporate partners, and inclusivity advocates. The event will feature various activities, including performances, inspirational stories, and community-building initiatives that reinforce the importance of inclusivity in society.

“SM Cares has been a proud partner of Happy Walk for years because we believe in the importance of creating a society where everyone feels valued and included. This event is a reminder that inclusivity is not just an initiative—it is a responsibility we all share,” said Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs.

SM Prime Chairman Hans Sy, together with SM Cares and DSAPI members, is celebrating the success of last year’s Happy Walk event.

The Happy Walk community continues to grow in number and contribute to a broader movement of inclusivity and empowerment.

Join the Movement: How to Be Part of Happy Walk 2025

Everyone is encouraged to take part in this inspiring event—whether by walking, volunteering, or simply showing support. To register, kindly visit the official Happy Walk 2025 registration page at: https://portal.dsapi.ph/dsapi/Register/RegParticipant. For more details on how to join, follow SM Cares’ social media pages.

SM Job Fairs: Bringing career opportunities nationwide

SM Supermalls is making job hunting easier, faster, and more rewarding! February’s job fairs set the stage for 2025, with the SM Retail Job Fair at SM North EDSA successfully connecting more than a thousand job seekers with top employers. Now, the momentum continues with a nationwide series of job fairs this March, offering even more opportunities for Filipinos to build their careers.

SM Retail's Job Fair at SM North EDSA bridges thousands of job seekers with leading employers.

The March schedule includes:

• March 21 (Friday) – SM City Trece Martires and SM City Naga

• March 25 (Tuesday) – SM City Bacoor

• March 27 (Thursday) – SM City Daet

• March 28 (Friday) – SM City Sta. Mesa and SM City Trece Martires

• March 29 (Saturday) – SM Seaside City Cebu

Success stories: Real people, real impact

SM Job Fairs continue to change lives by providing a fresh start, stable incomes, and career growth. Here’s what some of our hired-on-the-spot applicants had to say:

John Paul Arido begins his career journey as a Stock Clerk at SM Hypermarket.

 “This is the best—I can finally stand on my own and support my family! Thank you, SM Job Fair, for this life-changing opportunity. I hope more job seekers take advantage of this chance to build a better future.” - John Paul Arido, a newly hired Stock Clerk at SM Hypermarket

SM Hypermarket welcomes Maria Patricia De Leon, a new Customer Assistance team member hired instantly.

"Getting hired on the spot was both exciting and overwhelming since this is my first job fair. Thank you, SM, for creating opportunities like this—your job fairs truly make a difference for job seekers like me!" - Maria Patricia De Leon, hired on the spot for Customer Assistance at SM Hypermarket

Joselito Oniza joins the Watsons team as a proud pharmacist assistant.

"I’m grateful to be hired on the spot after two months of job hunting. This opportunity means so much to me and my family. The SM Job Fair was well-organized, and the staff were very approachable, making the entire process smooth and comfortable.” - Joselito Oniza, hired pharmacist assistant at Watsons 

Teresa Enriquez, Toy Kingdom’s newest cashier, is excited to start her journey in customer service.

"I’ve been following SM Supermalls’ job fair schedule, hoping for a chance to work for an SM-affiliated company. Being hired on the spot made the wait completely worth it! What sets SM Job Fairs apart is the quality of employers—established, reputable companies that offer real career opportunities. I’m truly grateful for this experience!" - Teresa Enriquez, Cashier at Toy Kingdom

Hassle-free job hunting with on-site government services

Finding a job is easier when everything you need is in one place! SM Job Fairs feature government agency booths to assist applicants with essential requirements, such as Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Pag-IBIG Fund—ensuring a smooth hiring process.

Driving growth, building the nation

More than just hiring events, SM Job Fairs contribute to economic recovery and uplift communities. With SM Supermalls' commitment to employment, more Filipinos are securing brighter futures. Your next big career move starts here—don’t miss out! 

SM Retail and SM North EDSA unite to empower job seekers at a bustling job fair.

Women on Fire 2025: Empowering Women, Building Resilient Communities

 

The iconic SM Mall of Asia Globe lights up in purple to celebrate gender equality, together with SM Cares, United Nations Philippines, and the Philippine Commission for Women.

In recognition of National Women’s Month and Fire Prevention Month, SM Cares launched Women on Fire, a celebration of the remarkable leadership, strength, courage, and resilience of women in fire prevention, disaster response, and community safety. Through collaboration with key government agencies and private organizations, Women on Fire served as a platform for education, awareness, and empowerment, reaching over 25,000 participants across all initiatives.

SM Cares, in partnership with the United Nations Philippines and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), kicked off Women’s Month on February 28 with the Purple Illumination Ceremony, lighting up the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Globe and mall façades nationwide. As a globally recognized symbol of justice, dignity, and women’s rights, the color purple marked the start of National Women’s Month in the Philippines, reinforcing SM’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment.

SM Megamall’s Time Sculpture turns purple in support of women empowerment.

Shoppers at SM North Edsa walk through the display at the LED Tunnel, a striking tribute to gender equality and women’s resilience.

Strengthening Preparedness and Safety

A key highlight of the campaign was Women on Fire, which recognized female firefighters, emergency responders, and community leaders for their role in safety, fire prevention and disaster preparedness. On March 4, 2025, SM Cares and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) conducted the 4th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill across SM malls nationwide, with SM Mall of Asia as the main venue. Hundreds of registered participants took part in the Fire Square Roadshow, engaging in fire safety demonstrations and interactive training sessions to strengthen preparedness.

"Women are at the forefront of resilience. Through ‘Women on Fire,’ we celebrate and honor their contributions and reaffirm our commitment to gender-inclusive safety efforts," said Atty. Pearly Joan Turley, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President of the Corporate Compliance Group and SM Cares Program Director for Women.

A female mall-goer tries the fire fighter’s protective uniform at the Fire Square Roadshow of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).	Students from the Philippine College of Criminology participate in the Fire Square Roadshow of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Women in Resilience: Empowering Women as Leaders in Disaster Preparedness and Community Building

On March 5, 2025, SM Cares and the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) led the 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration Kickoff at SM Mall of Asia. The event, centered on the theme “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas”, aimed to empower women across various sectors, particularly those from marginalized communities. Its activities included gender equality discussions on women’s rights and leadership, a trade fair showcasing products from women-led MSMEs and free services such as medical check-ups, legal consultations and livelihood support. 

Meanwhile, the Women LEAD Forum, co-hosted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and SM Cares, emphasized the crucial role of women at the barangay and grassroots levels in disaster resilience. The discussion underscored how women-led initiatives strengthen community preparedness and serve as models for national climate and disaster resilience programs.

On Day 2 with PCW, SM Prime Vice President Jessica Bianca Sy emphasizes the significance of empowering women in our communities.

The celebration also highlights the launch of the 50th Anniversary coffee table book, entitled as “From HerStory and Beyond: Five Decades of the Philippine Commission on Women”.

On Day 3 with DILG, the panel discussion moderated by United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Specialist for the Urban Connect Project Crystal Eunice Dela Cruz, highlights the significance of women’s leadership.

Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano (center) receives the DILG Certificate of Appreciation for Advancing Women’s Leadership for Community Resilience.

SM Cares Champions Safe and Inclusive Spaces with Safe Spaces Act Orientation

To reinforce its commitment to creating safe environments, SM Cares held the 3rd Nationwide Safe Spaces Act Orientation on March 4 and 6, engaging more than 12,000 participants across 86 SM malls nationwide. This initiative educated students, employees, tenants, and security personnel on the importance of maintaining harassment-free spaces in malls and workplaces.

SM Supermalls holds the 3rd Nationwide Orientation on the Safe Spaces Act with in the photo: Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Officer in Charge Executive Director Nharleen Santos-Millar, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President (VP) of the Corporate Compliance Group (CCG) Atty. Pearly Joan Turley, PCW former Executive Director Atty. Khay Ann Magundayao-Borlado, SM Supermalls VP for CCG Liza Silerio, together with SM Supermalls security and janitorial personnel.

For more updates on SM Cares' initiatives, visit the official website or follow @SMCaresOfficial on social media.

The Ultimate Youniverse Bucket List—Celebrating #WomensMonthAtSM

March is all about YOU! This Women’s Month at SM, we’re celebrating empowered women with beauty, wellness, and joy-filled experiences. Treat yourself to self-care, confidence boosts, and fun outings with friends. Step into your girlboss era with glow-ups, indulgences, and unforgettable moments. Start checking off the ultimate Women’s Month bucket list—only at SM Supermalls!

Own Beauty That Empowers: A Self-Love Glow-Up

Self-care is more than a treat—it’s a celebration of you! This Women’s Month, refresh, recharge, and embrace your glow-up with a makeup refresh, wardrobe upgrade, and an indulgent beauty experience at SM Supermalls!

Start with a beauty upgrade at Look at Me in its first branch in the Philippines, SM Aura, now also available at SM Mall of Asia (MOA), where you’ll find luxury brands perfect for high-end skincare and makeup essentials. 

For timeless beauty must-haves, MAC at SM MOA, SM North EDSA, SM City Fairview, and SM Megamall is the go-to for professional-grade cosmetics to help you create your signature look. Meanwhile, for skin-loving makeup, Happy Skin at SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM City Fairview, SM North EDSA, and SM MOA offers skincare-infused beauty for effortless radiance. 

A power statement completes any beauty routine, and Jo Malone at SM Megamall, SM Aura, SM MOA, and SM North EDSA, lets you create a signature scent that is uniquely yours. 

Refresh your wardrobe with Patton at SM Aura—first in SM, a woman-owned brand for chic, modern fashion. Meanwhile, for timeless staples check out K&Company—first in SM at SM Podium, also available at SM Aura and S Maison.

To complete your glow-up, Atelier 818 at SM Aura, first in the Philippines, with its fine jewelry that blends sophistication with artisanal craftsmanship.

Wellness First: Because You Deserve to Feel Your Best

Now’s the perfect time to hit pause, refresh, and focus on yourself. Whether it’s a hair makeover or a well-deserved pampering session, check out these spots to get that glow from within!

Start with a professional hair treatment at Amave by Going Straight Salon at SM North EDSA and SM Megamall, where expert hair care solutions keep your locks healthy and beautiful. If you’re ready to take your skincare and beauty routine to the next level, Aivee Clinic at SM Megamall—their first in SM, offers advanced cosmetic dermatology and treatments, perfect for enhancing your natural glow.

For a well-deserved pampering session, Ukiyo Beauty Bar at S Maison provides a relaxing escape with premium nail and self-care treatments. If smooth, flawless skin is on your list, Maxwax at SM Aura, first in SM—offers expert waxing services to help you feel fresh and confident.

To enhance your everyday look with authentic Japanese lash extensions check out Ayumi at SM City Fairview, SM Aura, SM MOA, and SM North EDSA. And if prioritizing fitness is part of your self-care routine try Fitness First Platinum at SM Aura—first in SM, for an elevated workout experience.

Girls' Day Out: Making More Moments Together

Now’s the perfect time to gather your girls and make unforgettable memories. Whether it’s brunch, coffee, or a cozy catch-up, check out these must-visit spots for the ultimate girls' day out!

Start with an indulgent brunch at Panco Café at SM Podium, first in SM, where Melbourne meets Manila in an elevated take on Filipino food. For a taste of Parisian elegance with beautifully crafted pastries and an effortlessly chic ambiance check out Apéritif, first in the Philippines at SM Aura, also available at SM North EDSA, SM MOA, SM Megamall, and SM City Fairview.

For an afternoon pick-me-up, visit Paul Le Café, the first in SM at SM North EDSA—now also in SM Megamall and SM Aura, where French tradition and a passion for bread and pastries come together. If you’re looking for a laid-back neighborhood spot, Brewing Point at SM City Fairview serves up comfort food with a cozy atmosphere.

Coffee lovers can take their caffeine game to the next level with four unique brewing methods at UCC Mentore at S Maison, first in SM. For a specialty coffee experience, Yardstick at SM Aura, SM MOA, and SM Podium, ranked 18th in the World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops—proudly roasts world-class coffee, making it a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts.

This Women’s Month, It’s Your Time to Shine—Only at SM!

At SM Supermalls, we’re all about bringing you first-class experiences, and this Women’s Month is no exception.

Whether you’re treating yourself to a well-deserved glow-up, celebrating with your best girls, or taking a much-needed me-time break, SM has everything you need to make it unforgettable!

Make this month all about you—because it's what you deserve! Find it all at SM—the #HomeOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!