SM Supermalls earns global recognition with two Silver wins at the prestigious ICSC MAXI Awards

SM Supermalls continues to bring purpose-driven initiatives to the global stage after earning two Silver Awards at the prestigious ICSC MAXI Awards, one of the world’s most respected recognitions for excellence in marketing and innovation in the retail and shopping industry.

The ICSC MAXI Awards recognized “Art From All: Turning Community Action into Public Art” and “The SM Green Movement: Sustaining Communities Through Responsible Design.”

SM Supermalls’ Art From All initiative was recognized for transforming sustainability into an immersive and participatory mall experience.

Launched in May 2025, the initiative invited shoppers to donate plastic waste and witness it transformed into large-scale cultural art installations inside the mall. Instead of simply raising awareness, Art From All made sustainability interactive and visible by integrating the experience directly into everyday mall foot traffic.

The initiative encouraged communities to actively engage in environmental action while showcasing how creativity and collaboration can breathe new life into discarded materials.

Meanwhile, SM Green Movement earned global recognition for its long-running sustainability framework focused on reducing the environmental impact of large-scale mall operations.

Designed to address growing pressures on water, energy, and waste systems in fast-growing urban communities, the initiative continues to scale sustainability programs across SM Supermalls properties while encouraging greater environmental awareness among the public.

Presented by the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), the MAXI Awards celebrate outstanding campaigns and programs from shopping centers and retail brands worldwide that create meaningful impact on communities, culture, and business.

More than celebrating marketing excellence, the recognition reflects SM Supermalls’ continued commitment to enriching everyday experiences, whether through championing Filipino creativity, fostering meaningful connections, or encouraging sustainable living.

SM Supermalls Expands Nationwide Push for Cycling Through Bike-Friendly Facilities and Active Mobility Initiatives

 Since the energy crisis, many Filipinos have been exploring alternative modes of transport and rediscovering the benefits of cycling—whether for daily commutes, quick errands, or weekend leisure rides. All for cyclists across the country, SM is making it sustainable to choose two wheels over four at their most-loved SM Supermalls.

Designed with convenience in mind, many SM malls offer bike-friendly infrastructure and facilities that support riders who prefer a greener way to travel. From safe, dedicated bike lanes and accessible bike parking areas to convenient entrances and cyclist-friendly amenities, SM continues to welcome riders who want to make cycling part of their everyday routine.

Cyclists gather at SM City Olongapo Central as SM reinforces its commitment to making malls more welcoming and accessible to bike communities.

Cyclists arrive at SM Seaside City Cebu as SM continues to design mall spaces that support sustainable transport and active mobility.

“At SM Supermalls, cyclists can also easily stop by to park their bikes, enjoy a meal, run errands, or meet friends before heading back on the road. Whether it’s a quick stop during a weekday commute or a longer visit during a weekend ride, SM malls provide a convenient hub for riders looking to recharge and relax,” Mina Kahn, SM Division Head and Assistant Vice President for Transportation Management. “All SM malls are equipped with bike facilities both indoor and outdoor, with a total of 823 bike parking areas and over 6,400 slots. There is also a total of 92 bike repair stations available across all SM locations, in case of assistance needed.”

Dedicated bicycle parking at SM supports cyclists with safe, convenient facilities that encourage greener modes of transport.

Bike-friendly features at SM make cycling a more practical and convenient option for everyday mall visits.

Empowering Biking Communities  

For commuters, cycling can be both a practical and low-cost solution to navigating traffic. It promotes a healthier lifestyle while reducing carbon emissions—making it a sustainable choice for urban mobility.

That is why on top of in-mall features and facilities for cyclists, SM Supermalls also hosts biking activities that further encourage and empower cycling communities while serving as platforms for connection and engagement.

To celebrate World Bicycle Day, SM Supermalls will organize its annual Pedal Power event on June 6 across its nationwide network of most-loved Supermalls. The cycling event assembles and supports cycling communities through community bike rides and bike clinics that aim to build camaraderie and deeper appreciation for active mobility. This year, The Podium will also be hosting a special cycling learning activity through SM Cares’ Book Nook.   

As part of the SM Green Movement, SM continues to champion active mobility in support of its broader commitment to building spaces that are accessible, sustainable, empowering, and inclusive for the communities it serves.

Through SM Pedal Power, participating malls across the country are helping make everyday mobility more sustainable and community friendly. These include SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, SM Center Antipolo Downtown, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Clark, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Rosario, SM City Lucena, SM Seaside City Cebu, and The Podium.

Water Resilience at Scale: SM’s Conservation Efforts in a Changing Climate

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) has advanced resource stewardship through water circularity initiatives, implementing water conservation measures across its nationwide network of SM Supermalls since the late 1990s.

Embedded in its operations, SM Malls uses innovative water management systems that save water and reduce wastage - drawing less from the national water grid and creating value in an increasingly volatile time.

 

 

Macro to Micro: SM’s approach to water conservation

 

Against the looming possibility of an extended drought caused by El Niño, saving every drop of water finds greater importance for SM Supermalls. Designed with sustainability in mind, SM Malls use innovative water management systems that not only promote saving water from wastage but also significantly reduce consumption. This helps lessen the use of fresh water resources from national water systems and leave more water for its surrounding communities to use.

SM ensures sustainable water use through advanced recycling and rainwater harvesting systems. In 2025, sewage treatment plants in its 89 malls recycle an estimated 6.6 million cubic meters of property wastewater for non-potable use. The rainwater treatment facility in SM Baguio innovatively harvests and treats rainwater collected during the wet season and transforms it into water for kitchen and tenant use.

 

As a key customer touchpoint in water management, faucets also regulate the outflow of water for every use.  SM’s investments in "push delay" faucets create sustainable operations to strengthen water conservation. These faucets save water by preventing it from being left running by restricting water flow through a certain window of time.

 

Technology then paved the way for enhanced conservation, and SM started using no-touch, sensor type faucets in 2015, far before the sanitary restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Sensor type faucets help save water by automatically shutting outflow of water once the sensor does not detect a user. Additionally, these types of faucets typically require less water pressure, which also reduces water waste. Significant investments in systems such as sensor faucets also reduce wear and tear on fixtures and equipment, resulting in long-term savings and improved water conservation.

 

 With its implementation, SM saw a 59% reduction in water waste, translating to saving the equivalent of a 1.5-liter bottle of water per user using the faucet over just 7 seconds.

 

By equipping its most-loved malls with water-efficient fixtures enhanced with technology, SM is protecting resources critical not just to its operations but to its surrounding communities. Under the guidance of the Water for Tomorrow pillar of the SM Green Movement, SM champions sustainable water use, reducing environmental impact and securing access to water for generations to come.

Where Winning Begins: Inside SM Supermalls' Largest Sports Playground

 

Across the country, a growing community of runners, pickleball players, skaters, bowlers, cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and aspiring athletes are embracing more active lifestyles at SM Supermalls. Through SM Active Hub, millions of Filipinos have found opportunities to move, compete, learn new sports, and connect with like-minded communities, turning SM malls into the country's largest network of active lifestyle destinations.

 

From April to June alone, SM hosted more than 3,500 sporting and sports-related events nationwide, strengthening its role as a catalyst for sports participation and community engagement. From grassroots programs and beginner clinics to tournaments and large-scale activations, SM continues to make sports more accessible while inspiring more Filipinos to stay active and engaged.

 

Where Winning Begins

The success of SM Supermalls' sports ecosystem is built on a simple belief: every athlete deserves a place to start. Through sports programs, tournaments, fitness activities, and community events across its malls nationwide, millions of Filipinos have discovered new passions, developed their skills, and embraced more active lifestyles, helping build one of the country's largest sports communities.

At the heart of this movement is SM Sports & Leisure Centers, which introduces aspiring athletes and enthusiasts to a wide range of sports through its seasonal training programs. Under the banner "Where Winning Begins," participants gain access to expert coaching, quality facilities, and opportunities to build confidence and sharpen their skills.

From the ice rink to the bowling lane and archery range, these programs inspire beginners to take their first steps in sport while nurturing the discipline, focus, and determination needed to grow.

"Every champion starts somewhere, and for many young Filipinos, that journey begins with access, opportunity, and the confidence to try," said Joseph Francis V. Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for Operations of SM Sports & Leisure Centers.

He added, "Sports teach more than technique. They build discipline, resilience, teamwork, and character. Our goal is to make these experiences accessible to more Filipinos and help nurture the next generation of athletes."

A Nationwide Active Lifestyle Movement

The success of these programs reflects SM Supermalls' vision of making sports more accessible to Filipinos. By transforming its mall spaces into venues for sports, wellness, and recreation, SM continues to inspire more people to stay active and engaged.

From skating rinks and bowling centers to pickleball courts, running hubs, basketball events, and multi-sport activations, SM has become a major force in bringing sports closer to communities nationwide.

"Sports have the unique ability to bring people together, inspire healthier lifestyles, and build stronger communities," said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls. "Through SM Active Hub, we're transforming our malls into spaces where people don't just shop or dine—they move, compete, learn, and connect."

He added, "What began as individual sports initiatives has grown into the Philippines' largest sports communities. Every run, every game, every training session, and every event creates opportunities for Filipinos to pursue their passions and become part of something bigger."

Today, SM Supermalls is more than a destination for leisure and entertainment. It has now become the country's premier sports destination, where communities gather, and athletes are born.

To learn more about upcoming sports events, programs, and activities, visit SM Active Hub through the SM Malls Online app or SM Supermalls' official channels. From active lifestyle experiences to Gala to the Max and other Maxed Out Fun moments, there's always something exciting waiting at SM Supermalls.

SM Supermalls and PMAP to expand job and upskilling opportunities nationwide

 

SM Supermalls and PMAP formally strengthened their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at bringing more accessible career fairs and workforce development initiatives closer to communities across the country.

SM Supermalls and the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) formally strengthened their commitment to empowering Filipino job seekers through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) held at the SM Supermalls Headquarters in Pasay City. This partnership reflects SM’s steadfast support for PMAP’s HumanITy mission—a vision that emphasizes a human-led, digitally enabled, and future-ready Philippines.

Steven T. Tan and Engelbert T. Camasura lead the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between SM Supermalls and the People Management Association of the Philippines, strengthening their shared commitment to expanding employment and upskilling opportunities for Filipinos nationwide.

Building on the success of their previous career fair collaboration, the partnership aims to expand the reach of nationwide job fairs while introducing more upskilling opportunities designed to help Filipinos become more prepared for the evolving demands of today’s workforce.

 

Steven T. Tan shares SM Supermalls’ continued commitment to

creating meaningful opportunities for Filipinos through partnerships that support employment, growth, and community development.

The ceremonial signing was led by SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan and PMAP President Engelbert T. Camasura, together with key executives and representatives from both organizations.

 

Through this collaboration, SM Supermalls and PMAP aim to create more accessible platforms that connect employers with qualified talent across different regions in the country. Beyond job matching, the initiative also highlights the importance of continuous learning and workforce readiness through career development and upskilling initiatives.

As one of the country’s largest most-loved mall networks, SM Supermalls continues to transform its spaces into venues that create meaningful community impact — from employment opportunities and government service access to programs that support growth and empowerment for Filipinos.

With PMAP’s extensive network of HR and people management professionals nationwide, the partnership is expected to further strengthen regional career fair programs and bring more opportunities closer to local communities.

Together, SM Supermalls and PMAP reaffirm their shared mission of helping build a more inclusive, future-ready, and digitally empowered Filipino workforce through accessible employment and learning opportunities nationwide.

SM Supermalls launches Sustainability Digest

SM Supermalls has unveiled the “SM Supermalls Sustainability Digest 2025: Work and Wins.” The inaugural report showcases how sustainability is woven deeply into SM’s core strategies, ensuring its nationwide network of most-loved Supermalls remain safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible for the benefit of Filipinos and the communities that surround its business.

 

(L-R: Bel Gonzales, SM Supermalls Section Head for Sustainability; Kitchie Limoanco, SM Supermalls SVP for Corporate Marketing and Public Relations; George Cheung, SM Supermalls AVP for Waste Management & Sustainability Solutions; Engr. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls VP for Corporate Compliance and Sustainability; Engr. Junias Eusebio, SM Supermalls VP for Operations; Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls EVP for Marketing; Engr. Charles Singson, SM Supermalls AVP for Mall Operations, Mina Kahn, SM Supermalls AVP for Transport Management)  

The comprehensive report spotlights SM’s environmental efforts that stem from the sustainability pillars of energy, water, and waste. Through the digest, SM Supermalls reinforces its commitment to blending environmentally responsible practices into its operations focused on creating more resilient communities and advancing environmental management. 

 

“What makes the sustainability approach of SM Supermalls unique is the scale in which we are able to implement our hard work. For us sustainability is not about mere compliance. It is deeply embedded in every aspect of operations across our nationwide network of most-loved Supermalls to serve our customers and communities better,” said Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing.

 

SM Supermalls’ dedication to environmental responsibility dates back to the 90s, when Mr. Hans Sy, current Chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime Holdings, pioneered resource-saving initiatives, particularly by leading the installation of sewage treatment plants that recycle water for irrigation, sanitation, and air-conditioning. 

Today, SM’s environmental efforts continue to evolve through integrated solutions in renewable energy, water stewardship, and waste management across its mall operations nationwide.

On energy efficiency, SM Supermalls Vice-President for Mall Operations Junias M. Eusebio highlighted the company’s increased reliance on renewables to support its long-term sustainability goals. “Not all solar energy can power the whole supply. But rather, it complements the energy mix of the grid plus the solar energy we generate.”

SM’s environmental programs have also expanded to involve broader customer touchpoints for deeper community engagement across the Philippines.

 

“Our scale gives us the unique privilege of involving our customers and communities across the country in the shared journey toward sustainability. SM not only strives to implement measures that preserve our natural resources, we also empower everyone to engage with customer touchpoints on sustainability at their most-loved SM mall,” said Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Sustainability.

 

SM’s executives for sustainability and mall operations highlight its initiatives for water conservation, energy efficiency, and waste management. (L-R: Engr. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls VP for Corporate Compliance and Sustainability; Junias Eusebio, SM Supermalls VP for Operations)

 

Moreover, SM Supermalls enhances community resilience against natural disasters by continuously upgrading its rainwater catchment basins, automated weather stations, and earthquake-monitoring systems. SM Supermalls has carried Mr. Sy’s vision forward by making sustainability a core part of how its malls are designed, managed, and operated. 

 

Together with government institutions, local government units, stakeholders, and volunteers, SM Supermalls has strengthened its role in working for a cleaner, greener future for all. 

 

Additionally, SM Prime’s Net Zero 2040 goal envisions powering malls with renewable energy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These objectives align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals that integrate environmental action and resilience-building. 

 

SM Supermalls recognizes its vital role in building communities and protecting the environment. Join the SM Green Movement by participating in sustainability programs at your most-loved SM Supermall.

5 Reasons Shoppers are Obsessed with the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM Bacolod

The Bulawan Trade Fair is officially in full swing at SM City Bacolod, drawing shoppers, creatives, and supporters of local craftsmanship into a vibrant showcase of Negrense artistry, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Following a successful opening day turnout, the three-day fair continues to spotlight proudly local products and meaningful stories from MSMEs across Negros Occidental — proving why this event deserves a spot on everyone’s weekend plans.

SM Supermalls and the Association of Negros Producers (ANP) formally open the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod, celebrating Negrense creativity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship while creating greater opportunities for local MSMEs to thrive. L-R: Brigadier General Ted Dumosmog Commanding Officer 303rd Brigade; Gov. Eugenio “Bong” Lacson; Mary Ann Colmenares, 40th Negros Trade Fair Chairperson; May Castro, Public Relations Manager of SM City Bacolod; and Lynna Joy B. Cardinal, DTI Negros Occidental Provincial Director.

Organized in partnership with the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), the same organization behind the highly successful Negros Trade Fair at SM Aura last year, the Bulawan Trade Fair serves as both a celebration of creativity and a gateway for MSMEs to connect with wider national opportunities through SM Supermalls’ expansive retail network.

Here are five reasons why shoppers are loving the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM Bacolod:

1. It’s where Negrense craftsmanship meets modern innovation

Shoppers are especially flocking to the fair for highly sought-after Negrense delicacies, handcrafted home décor, artisanal fashion accessories, woven products, natural crafts, and locally made food favorites that showcase the distinct creativity and craftsmanship of Negros Occidental.

Proudly Negrense delicacies, artisanal creations, and handcrafted products take center stage at the Bulawan Trade Fair, showcasing the innovation and creativity of local MSMEs.

Visitors can also discover original and never-before-seen product concepts featured in SIBOL: The 33rd Bulawan Awards, 4th Pilak Awards, and 3rd ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition—a prestigious platform where new products and creative concepts are introduced, judged, and recognized for excellence and innovation. 

“People now appreciate products with authentic stories and craftsmanship,” shared Eva Si of ChiEvs Stones and Crystals. “The Bulawan Trade Fair allows us to proudly showcase Negrense creativity to more customers and new markets.”products and creative concepts are introduced, judged, and recognized for excellence and innovation. 

2. It’s a major boost for local and next generation Filipino MSMEs

As part of SM Supermalls’ continuing SM for MSMEs advocacy, the event provides entrepreneurs with greater visibility, stronger customer engagement, and opportunities to scale beyond their local communities. “SM Supermalls continues to open meaningful opportunities for MSMEs across the country,” said Joaquin San Agustin. “Through events like the Bulawan Trade Fair, we help local businesses connect with more customers, strengthen their brands, and become part of a larger movement that champions Filipino entrepreneurship.”

Local artisans proudly showcase their latest creations as guests flock to the Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod.

3. It’s where future Negrense brands are discovered

SIBOL: The 33rd Bulawan Awards, 4th Pilak Awards, and 3rd ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition serves as a preview leading toward the milestone 40th Negros Trade Fair happening later this year in Manila. The competitions introduce new products and concepts to the market, where entries are judged based on innovation, craftsmanship, and design excellence before potentially being launched commercially after the judging on May 29.

Winning products often gain wider exposure through the Negros Trade Fair, including previous standouts such as Chorizo Hamonado and Recado in Chili Oil, which eventually became part of the Manila showcase. 

The Bulawan Awards recognize products from ANP members and, this year, also welcome non-ANP participants under an Open Category—expanding opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs and creators across Negros Occidental.

Meanwhile, the Pilak Awards highlight products developed by MSMEs supported by the Negros Occidental Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) under the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, which empowers MSMEs, farmers, and marginalized communities through livelihood development, skills training, and enterprise support.

The ANP-PGNO Balik Salig Design Competition shines a spotlight on former conflict area communities, using creativity and weaving as tools for empowerment, peace-building, and sustainable livelihood generation. Through handcrafted products and cultural storytelling, participating communities showcase resilience, heritage, and hope.

For over four decades, ANP has championed Negrense entrepreneurship, design innovation, and craftsmanship by creating platforms that help local businesses grow and thrive. “The overwhelming support during opening day reflects the growing appreciation for proudly local products and Negrense talent,” shared Mary Ann Colmenares, 40th Negros Trade Fair Chairperson. “Through our partnership with SM Supermalls, we are able to give our artisans and MSMEs a stronger platform to reach wider audiences.” 

4. Visitors can experience more than just shopping

Beyond the exhibits, guests can immerse themselves in a dynamic lineup of creative workshops, industry meetups, talks, runway presentations, and live product judging sessions that celebrate the intersection of culture, creativity, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Among the activities happening throughout the fair are macrame workshops, women-led art sessions, design talks, and fashion presentations featuring local arts and crafts. “It’s inspiring to see people not just buying products but also wanting to learn the stories and processes behind them,” shared CJ Jimenez of Vaca Japonesa. “That connection makes events like this very meaningful for makers like us.”

The Bulawan Trade Fair transforms SM City Bacolod into a vibrant marketplace showcasing the best of Negrense artistry and innovation.

5. Every purchase supports local communities

Every handcrafted product purchased at the fair directly supports local artisans, community-based enterprises, and livelihood programs across Negros Occidental. The event also features products from communities supported through the Balik Salig Awards, a collaborative initiative that empowers former conflict-affected communities through weaving, craftsmanship, and sustainable livelihoods. 

Products developed by MSMEs supported by the Negros Occidental Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC) highlight the power of livelihood development, creativity, and local enterprise.

By supporting local makers, shoppers become part of a larger movement that helps preserve culture, uplift communities, and strengthen Filipino entrepreneurship. The Bulawan Trade Fair and SIBOL Design Competition at SM City Bacolod continue to celebrate Negrense creativity, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment—while opening doors for local MSMEs to grow from regional artisans into nationally recognized brands.