SM Viyline MSME Caravan: Strengthening community ties at SM City Baguio

The much-anticipated second leg of the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan is set to take place at SM City Baguio from February 19-25, 2025, bringing together an exciting array of MSMEs and community members for a dynamic shopping experience. This collaboration between Viyline and SM aims to boost local businesses while promoting community engagement, and the event is poised to be a game-changer for MSMEs in the region. 

Discover unique finds and support local businesses at the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan, happening at SM City Baguio from February 19-25, 2025.

A highlight of the event will be the presence of Viy Cortez, renowned influencer and wife of popular YouTuber CONG TV. Known for her strong online following and influence, Viy Cortez will grace the opening ceremony, adding a touch of excitement and star power to the event. Her involvement in this initiative underscores the significance of the MSME Caravan as an opportunity to elevate the community. 

A variety of delicious food products, like bottled Pork Sisig Barbecue, are available at the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan, which travels to SM Supermalls nationwide.

The Viyline MSME Caravan is more than just a bazaar—it’s a collaborative effort to strengthen the local economy, support budding entrepreneurs, and celebrate the diversity and creativity of the MSME sector. By bringing together small business owners, influencers, and community members, this event nurtures deeper connections and encourages greater consumer engagement. 

The Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan cultivates a thriving MSME ecosystem through collaboration, support, and a dynamic showcase of local talent. Photo from the Viyline Media Group.

The success of the first leg of the Viyline MSME Caravan, held at SM City Bataan last January 22 - 29, 2025, has set the stage for a thrilling second installment, and this collaboration with SM City Baguio promises to take things to the next level. With the support of influential figures like Viy Cortez, the event is bound to attract a wide audience, further solidifying the importance of MSMEs in promoting community growth. 

The Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan's triumphant first leg at SM City Bataan paves the way for an even more exciting continuation at SM City Baguio. Photo from the Viyline Media Group.

The caravan continues to SM City Dasmarinas from March 19-30, after its SM City Baguio stop (February 19-25, 2025). See the full schedule at www.smsupermalls.com.

#ColorsInBloomAtSM: A Burst of Color, Culture, and Celebration

                     

🌸✨ Vibrant colors, joyful smiles, and cultural pride! 🎉 The Panagbenga 2025 celebration comes alive with stunning performances, festive outfits, and creative floral displays. #ColorsInBloomAtSM 🌺🌻  

This year’s Panagbenga has been nothing short of a color spectacle showcasing Baguio’s arts and culture. 

One striking piece is a dynamic lightning bolt, expertly crafted from brilliant yellow and blue tile fragments. This work honors Baguio photographer and artist Kidlat de Guia, who passed away in Madrid, Spain.

An onlooker admires the captivating pieces at The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit, a key highlight of the event that brings the spirit of the Cordilleras to life.

A key highlight of the event, The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit, brings the spirit of the Cordilleras to life through its artistry. This display features works by Kabunyan de Guia, Guiller Lagac, and Oliver Olivete—collectively known as The Mighty Bhutens. Their pieces, inspired by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, reflect a spontaneous, playful approach that remains true to the rich heritage of the region.

Savor the flavors of Panagbenga 2025 at the Food Truck Fest! 🍔🌮 A must-visit for foodies, this vibrant gathering showcases mouthwatering delights from local MSMEs, bringing together great food, good vibes, and a feast for the senses! 🌟🚚 #Panagbenga2025

Discover unique handcrafted treasures at the Food & Crafts Fair! From artisanal accessories to local delicacies, it's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind pasalubong. 

The Food and Crafts Fair, running from February 17 – March 03, features local MSMEs presenting a variety of products, including souvenirs, foods, and delicacies. The Food Truck Fest at The Drive offers a unique mix of tastes and flavors from local culinary entrepreneurs.

Painting Panagbenga memories together! Families join in the colorful fun at Family Art Day, celebrating the festival’s vibrant spirit through creativity and laughter. #Panagbenga2025  #ColorsInBloomAtSM

The Painting Competition at Panagbenga 2025 brings artists together to capture the beauty and spirit of the festival on canvas.

The Panagbenga Festival at the mall was bursting with creativity as participants of all ages embraced the artistic spirit! From vibrant paintings to hands-on family fun, the art activities brought inspiration and color to the celebration. 🎨✨ 

The Arts and Crafts activity sparks creativity among students from various schools as they repurposed past Panagbenga decors into sustainable art. Families enjoyed bonding at Family Art Day, while friends found inspiration from the scenic Sky Terrace view during the Painting Competition.

                         

Bringing the Panagbenga 2025 festival spirit to life, cultural performers from various local groups fill the mall with energy, rhythm, and tradition—celebrating the heritage of the Cordilleras in a vibrant display of music and dance.

The shoppers enjoy the Panagbenga spirit and festive atmosphere enriched by music and cultural performances from groups such as Day Eng Cultural Group, University of Baguio BIBAK Ubbun Kaafuan, Paggawisan Tako Am-In from the University of the Philippines-Baguio and Gawis Culture and Arts Ensemble. 

           

A tail-wagging good time! Pawstival brings together pet lovers and their furry friends for a day filled with fun, games, and adorable moments.

Fur-parents and their beloved companions struts their super style in a fun-filled costume contest. The Pet Pawstival kicked off with a paw-some day of bonding and laughter, creating unforgettable memories for both pets and their devoted owners.

          

Guided by skilled artisans, participants discover the beauty of traditional weaving—one thread at a time.

The weaving workshop, led by master weaver Cathy Ekid from Bontoc, shares her expertise in backstrap weaving. With the assistance of the Pasakalye Group of Artists, mall-goers try their hand at this traditional craft, contributing to the preservation of the art of weaving.

     

Art that speaks to the soul—visitors find inspiration and meaning in every masterpiece at ‘Hiraya: Dreams in Bloom.

Hiraya: Dreams in Bloom showcased a heartfelt collection of artworks that captured dreams and aspirations through the enchanting beauty of flowers. Featuring over 60 pieces from 48 artists, the exhibit highlighted the incredible talent of prominent Pasakalye artists, blending tradition and creativity in a captivating visual storytelling.

     

From loom to runway—celebrating the craftsmanship of our local weavers in the Blooming Weaves fashion show and Exhibit.

Blooming Weaves celebrated Cordillera’s rich weaving traditions through a stunning fashion show and exhibit. Featuring the Fashion Designers Alliance Cordillera, the event blended traditional fabrics with modern, eco-conscious designs. Visitors admired intricate handwoven masterpieces, showcasing techniques like backstrap weaving, pedal loom weaving, and ikat dyeing—each a testament to indigenous artistry.

       

Photo Caption: A feast for the senses! Fireworks, glowing lights, and dreamy floral décor come together to create a truly enchanting atmosphere.

Spectacular fireworks, vibrant floral displays featuring a dynamic blend of pastel floral designs, and striking gobo and light installations throughout the mall further enhanced the Panagbenga celebrations.

Photo Caption: A masterpiece of artistry and agriculture! This year's float parade was a spectacular tribute to the beauty of harvest season.

On February 23, residents and visitors eagerly gathered to witness the highly anticipated Grand Float Parade, featuring 44 beautifully decorated floats that captivated the crowd.

As a hall-of-famer, SM City Baguio presented a non-competing entry, bringing this year’s festival theme, "Blossoms Beyond Boundaries," to life with a stunning design inspired by a cornucopia of bountiful harvests.

Sun Life empowers Filipinos to make bright choices in the game of life

Life is a game. We conquer challenges, learn new skills, and forge bonds. With every choice we make, we write the narrative of how our life unfolds.

 

This is the essence of the new campaign launched by Sun Life Philippines. At the forefront of the campaign is a digital video that features an original song called “Game of Life,” and stars brand ambassadors Donny Pangilinan, Sarah Geronimo, Matteo Guidicelli, and Piolo Pascual.

 

Performed by Sarah, the song’s uplifting lyrics capture the excitement and challenges of life, highlighting the importance of having a Partner for Life to help you play the odds to your favor. This is demonstrated in the video, where Donny, Sarah, Matteo, and Piolo are faced with unfortunate events while going about their daily lives. Despite these events, they make the choice to stay positive and keep moving forward.

 

“We all know that life happens,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “But with the right support and planning, you can be empowered to make winning choices. ‘Game of Life’ is all about embracing the adventure and feeling confident that you have a partner in your corner.”

 

The upbeat track is more than just a song; it is a reminder that with Sun Life by your side, you have a bright partner to help you make the most of every move. Through this new song and video, Sun Life’s message shines through, assuring Filipinos that they are not alone in playing the game of life.

 

Sun Life’s new “Game of Life” video is available for viewing on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. To learn more about the campaign, visit sunlife.co/playforlife

 

Home Credit, Puregold secure partnership, give more Filipinos access to convenient and flexible consumer products purchase through credit

Staying true to its commitment of being the Filipinos’ financial ally, Home Credit Philippines (HCPH) has recently formed a partnership with one of the country’s biggest chain of supermarkets, Puregold, to allow its customers to use credit when purchasing their necessities.  

 

Recently launched, this collaboration offers Puregold customers nationwide an easy, convenient, and secure way of purchasing their groceries using Home Credit Card or Qwarta. In addition, they will get opportunities to participate in seasonal, brand specific, and other unique and exclusive deals.  

 

Home Credit Card is HCPH’s premium revolving product that offers select customers the perfect first-time Visa credit card with 3% load discount, zero additional fees on bills payment, interest-free option for up to 45 days per month and low interest fee at 3%. Meanwhile, Qwarta is HCPH’s virtual shopping line that users can use via the My Home Credit App to buy load, pay bills, buy groceries (via QR), and shop online.   

 

“Home Credit is steadfast in its role of being a financial partner to Filipinos to help them realize and achieve the life that they want for themselves. This collaboration with one of the country’s biggest chain of supermarkets enables us to strengthen this commitment and reach more people nationwide with offers that can help them better manage their finances,” Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of HCPH, said.    

 

This seamless payment journey only involves three easy steps, starting with the customers’ download of the My Home Credit App. Those who are eligible to use Home Credit’s Qwarta or those who have a Home Credit credit card may then generate a QR code that, lastly, they will present to a Puregold’s cashier for scanning to complete their purchase. 

 

“As we approach the remarkable milestone of having 500 stores nationwide, our unwavering commitment to our company’s core values is stronger. We are not just a retail business, but an enterprise of service, dedicated to supporting lives and nurturing stronger communities across the country.  

 

This strategic partnership with Home Credit Philippines allows us to further amplify flexibility and convenience for our valued customers and Ka-Asensos,” Jenny Jacintos, Senior Manager for Merchandising and Marketing Services of Puregold.  

   

To know 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. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in Shopping Mall Philippines.    

    

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).    

 

Jollibee Group Awarded Global Good Governance Nod for Social Development Initiatives

The Jollibee Group was recently honored with the “3G Championship Award for Community Development and Philanthropy 2024” at the 9th Global Good Governance Awards or 3G Awards held in Taguig City. 

Cambridge International Finance Advisory (Cambridge IFA), a global financial services intelligence house, conferred the award on Jollibee Group for spearheading programs that have made a positive impact on the community through its social development arm, Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF). The award also recognized Jollibee Group’s efforts in strengthening their business practice to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

CHAMPIONING COMMUNITIES THROUGH CSR. Jollibee Group Foundation’s President Gisela Tiongson (center) and Jollibee Group’s Chief Business Officer Joseph Tanbuntiong (right) accepted the trophy for 3G Championship Award for Community Development and Philanthropy 2024 during the Good Governance Awards on April 29. With them is the Global Good Governance Chairman, Dr. Humayon Dar, who presented the award.

“We are honored to receive such a prestigious award from Cambridge IFA. This recognizes the hard work that the Jollibee Group Foundation has done through decades – inculcating our knowledge on food to uplift the livelihood of farmers, feeding schoolchildren so they can graduate, and providing thousands of meals in disaster-stricken areas. We share this recognition with our partners in the government, NGOs, and our employee volunteers for getting together to help achieve a wider impact on more communities,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, President and Chief Executive Officer of Jollibee Group. “We will remain committed to improving our business practices and empowering our employees as we continue to serve great-tasting food and bring the joy of eating to everyone.”

JGF promotes improved access to food by implementing programs on agro-entrepreneurship through its Farmer Entrepreneurship Program and on education through the Busog Lusog Talino Feeding Program and the Access, Curriculum, and Employability (ACE) Scholarship Program.  The Foundation also spearheads disaster response efforts through the FoodAID program while working with partner organizations and national government agencies in the Philippines and other countries.

Jollibee Group and JGF also recently partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry for a learning session wherein their leaders imparted business development and management knowledge to micro, small, and medium enterprises. 

Moreover, Jollibee Group and JGF reinforced their environmental stewardship effort by including mangrove protection and reforestation in its CSR programs. They recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to strengthen their cooperation on these initiatives. 

3G AWARDEE 2024.  On behalf of Jollibee Group and JGF, Jollibee Group Chief Business Officer Joseph Tanbuntiong highlighted in his acceptance speech during the Global Good Governance Awards the company’s goal to help shape various communities through sustainable business practices.

The 3G Awards is an annual program celebrating good governance, transparency, and social responsibility. It was attended by hundreds of individuals and institutions from government and politics, the corporate sector, and the social sector and philanthropy from different countries. This is the 9th year for 3G awards which has been held in different parts of the globe and was held in Manila for the first time.

Jobs on the Rise: New Urban Developments Are Driving Employment Growth

Cities worldwide, while diverse in demographics and culture, share a common pursuit of progress through new urban developments. These projects not only enhance convenience amid urban congestion but also stimulate local economies and communities through various socio-economic activities like job creation.

Whether in the form of public transportation, cutting-edge business districts, or towering residential communities, a single new development requires a whole host of jobs from pre-construction to construction, and completion. These range from real estate developers and planners to construction workers and suppliers – all requiring extensive collaboration for successful project development.

Hudson Yards: Direct and indirect employment opportunities

Photo credit to Following NYC. Featuring ‘Vessel’, a honeycomb-like structure and visitor attraction in the Hudson Yards Development in Manhattan, New York City. 

The cycle of job creation doesn’t stop after completion. A new development also drives indirect employment opportunities generated from industries attracted or related to the development. 

Such is the case for Hudson Yards, New York City’s 28-acre mixed-use development and considerably the United States’ biggest megadevelopment in history. It had created thousands of construction jobs that resulted in transforming Manhattan’s iconic skyline and becoming home to diverse shops, offices, cultural institutions, and hotels and residences. Ongoing operations and management of these facilities are expected to contribute to its large-scale economy, such as hosting over 55,752 workers daily and about $19 billion annually to the city’s GDP. 

Dubai and Songdo IBD: Creating economic opportunities afresh.

Meanwhile, cities like Dubai and Songdo International Business District (IBD) generate jobs by creating economic opportunities from the ground up. They used land reclamation as an urban development strategy to address land scarcity and high population density challenges.

Photo credit to Kadir Avşar. A closer aerial view of the Palm Islands. 

Dubai's ambitious projects, including the Palm Islands, the World Islands, and Burj Al Arab, have turned it into an ultramodern metropolis for commerce and tourism. In 2023, it drew over 30,000 new businesses, driving demand for talent in finance, legal, and digital technology sectors.

The Songdo IBD is an ongoing smart city built on reclaimed land in Incheon, South Korea. It’s designed to be an international business and residential hub with sustainable features. As of 2020, the 1,500-acre development hosts about 30,000 residents, 33,000 jobs, and 70% fewer emissions than any other development.

SM’s Integrated City Developments: Empowering local communities and residents

SM Prime contributed photo. An aerial view of SM Mall of Asia (MOA) featuring its iconic Globamaze and thriving network of retail, business, residential, and hotel developments. 

The SM Group, a leading conglomerate in the Philippines, has an ecosystem of interests spanning retail, banking, property, and mall developments across the country, making it the largest employer with over 140,000 employees.

For every SM mall development by SM Prime Holdings, the integrated property developer of the Group, the local economy is invigorated because of the opportunities created by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that comprise about 68% of its mall tenants. For instance, SM City Bataan, SM Supermalls’ 83rd mall, employs about 96% of its mall administration staff who are residents called Bataeños, including two in leadership roles. It also proudly showcases local industries by partnering with homegrown businesses like family-owned brands and locally managed franchises. 

Job security, stable income, and tax revenues contribute to the local workforce’s quality of life; and SM Prime ensures to manifest these waves of progress in its developments, especially in its future plans for smart cities in the Philippines to be spearheaded by its ongoing 360-hectare development in Pasay City.

New urban developments are catalysts for growth, innovation, and avenues for increased prosperity, shaping local economies through job creation and improved lives. The success of these city centers requires a network of opportunities – from its pre-construction supply chain to empowering businesses for individuals to thrive and contribute to the communities.

A moment that changed lives : SM scholars recall the beginning of their SM scholar journey

Some moments fade with time, certain experiences leave an indelible mark, shaping not just our paths but our very identities. For Atty. Marmie Deniega and Amanda Hora, the SM scholarship application wasn't just a gateway to education; it was the moment that shaped the life they live today.

The first to obtain a degree in the family

A family legacy, SM scholar Amanda Hora becomes the first in her family to earn a degree.

Amanda’s unforgettable story as an SM scholar began when she stumbled upon a Facebook post about the SM scholarship application.

“It has always been my dream to pursue a quality education without the burden of tuition expenses. I enrolled in a university in Senior High School because of a scholarship, and I know that the only way to continue my college years at the same university is to obtain another full scholarship. That is why I never hesitated to apply for the SM scholarship, hoping to be accepted,” she said. 

In the quiet hours of the night several years back, an email from the SM Foundation lit up her phone’s screen, informing her that she had been selected for their scholarship program.

The acceptance was a mark that she was a few steps away from fulfilling another goal: “I pursued college because I wanted to become the first in our family to get a college degree.”

“My parents did not finish their studies due to financial difficulties, but they’ve always been supportive of my dreams and aspirations. Also, I believe in the importance of quality education. It is something that nobody can take away,” she added.

Amanda snaps a photo with her family as she graduated cum laude with a degree in BS accountancy in 2023.

The scholarship opened doors throughout her college years. Beyond the academic realm, she had the opportunities to join competitions, intern at prestigious firms, and build a network that extended far beyond the classroom. 

She shared: “As a scholar, the foundation’s programs and webinars allowed me to hear inspiring stories from other scholars, mentoring and motivating us to pursue our goals. When COVID-19 affected the country and whenever there were calamities, the SM Foundation looked after us. They provided us with tools that are essential for remote learning. It made me feel that I am part of a bigger family and that I am not alone in this journey.”

These experiences paved academic and personal growth. As she graduated cum laude with a degree in BS accountancy in 2023, she aims to contribute to the community by creating a ripple effect of kindness.

“I would use my knowledge to find ways to provide livelihood programs, especially in areas or communities where it is much needed. I would also advocate for financial literacy to help people effectively manage their finances and build resilience, especially during unpredictable life events. I would also use my story to inspire the youth, especially the current and future scholars, and remind them to never give up on their dreams,” she shared.

Scholar makes an impact on the community

Atty. Marmie Deniega (fifth from left) with her colleagues from IBP-Cebu Chapter.

Much like Amanda is CPA-lawyer Marmie Dyan Deniega.

Raised by a single mother amid financial struggles, the pursuit of a college degree seemed like an unattainable dream until she chanced upon a TV commercial that introduced her to the SM College Scholarship.

Recalling vividly the moment, she shares: “My mother and I were watching the television. The commercial for SM Foundation came in, and the application deadline was flashed through the screen. Coincidentally, it was on that day itself, so I rushed and submitted my application at the nearest SM Mall."

The scholarship became the cornerstone of Marmie's academic success. She graduated with cum laude honors in Accountancy from the University of San Jose-Recoletos, crediting the scholarship for providing not only financial support but also the freedom to focus on her studies. 

The scholarship not only shaped her academic journey but also fueled a sense of responsibility, which proved valuable when she pursued a law degree with the help of her aunt and part-time jobs.

Now successful in her field, Atty. Marmie travels and enjoys various leisure activities. Beyond this, she is thankful to have the capability to support her family.

Now, she proudly serves as an Attorney III at the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) of Mandaue City, actively contributing to her community's development. She is one of the people who played a pivotal role in streamlining business permit processing in their city, making it more accessible to constituents.

As a firm believer in spreading social good, she finances the education of her siblings while actively engaging in community-based projects. She also stands as a resource speaker in schools for several crucial topics, such as the Anti-Bullying Law.

Apart from legal aid work in far-flung areas in Cebu, through the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Cebu Chapter, she also volunteers with Law Inc., an organization helping victims of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC). She conducts seminars across various locations in Cebu, shedding light on the intricacies of VAWC.

In the confines of her office, clients naturally turn to her for legal advice, seeking guidance on various matters: “It cannot be helped that clients will also seek legal advice from me, hence I also make it a point to help them, to the best of my ability, and within the boundaries set by law."

Amanda and Marmie's stories are not just individual triumphs but testaments to the impact of education. Each year, countless dreamers like them are empowered to pursue their academic aspirations and chart their paths to success through the SM College Scholarship Program.

As the application for the SM College Scholarship Program opens from Feb. 1 to March 31, 2024, countless more lives stand to be touched.