THE ART OF MINDFUL SKINCARE: HOW TO CONTROL YOUR BREAKOUTS

February 12, 2026




Acne breakouts aren't just a “dirty skin problem,” they are a response from inflammation caused by stress, busy lifestyle, hormonal fluctuations, and other environmental factors. Today, especially among Gen Z, there’s a growing shift from harsh, quick-fix solutions to more mindful and intentional skincare routines that focus on healing the skin, not punishing it. To achieve clear, healthy skin, routines should be calm, consistent, and careful, not aggressive. 

Pimples and acne are common across all ages, but they’re especially prevalent among younger generations. Breakouts can be triggered by different factors such as over-exfoliation, stress, medications, diet, and hormonal changes. On top of that, Gen Z’s tendency to jump on viral skincare trends and experiment with multiple products at once can sometimes worsen inflammation and trigger more breakouts. This 2026, it’s time for Gen Z to hop on a smarter skincare trend: mindful skincare that prioritizes skin barrier health, gentle ingredients, and long-term results over instant fixes. 

Mindful skincare—in terms of acne control—is a holistic, intentional approach to managing acne that combines gentle, consistent, and effective product usage with stress-reduction techniques to minimize inflammation and avoid further irritation. Unlike traditional and often aggressive acne treatments that can damage the skin barrier, mindful skincare focuses on proper self-care and loving your skin.  

These are some of the tips that Gen Zs, and even both the younger and older generations, can do to practice mindful skincare: 

1. Physical Activity: This tip may sound cliche, but regular physical activity helps reduce stress, which can trigger hormonal acne. Whether it’s long walks, jogging, stretching, or even dancing around your room, it doesn’t need to be strenuous. The goal is simply to get moving, release endorphins, and give your skin (and mind) a little extra calm. 

2. Proper diet: The goal is to avoid or limit the intake of food that causes rapid spikes in blood sugar, which increase insulin and hormones that fuel sebum production.  You can include probiotics, zinc-rich foods, and low-glycemic foods that help to nourish our skin from the inside. 

3. Avoid “harsh” skincare product ingredients: We love strong products that induce fast results. But in the process, there are strong products that can further damage your skin if not used properly.  Ingredients such as Licorice Root Extract, Peony Root Extract, and Salicylic Acid are known for being gentle yet effective, helping to manage breakouts while calming inflammation and redness. 

These ingredients are commonly found in formulations such as Skin by BYS’ Acne Control line. Licorice Root Extract is known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties that help calm redness and sensitivity, while offering subtle brightening benefits that can improve the look of post-acne marks over time. Peony Root Extract supports a more balanced complexion by reducing inflammation and helping the skin recover without irritation—an important factor in long-term acne care. Rounding out the routine, Salicylic Acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), penetrates deep into pores to break down excess oil and buildup, helping keep skin clear and prevent future breakouts. 

The Skin by BYS Acne Control line offers a balanced approach to acne care by combining mild, skin-soothing ingredients with targeted acne-fighting actives. Designed to be gentle enough for daily use, the line helps manage breakouts effectively while supporting skin barrier health, which makes it ideal for a mindful skincare that seeks consistent, long-term results. 

Key Products in the Line Include: 


Mindful skincare is all about consistency, care, and intention. By keeping routines gentle, supporting your skin barrier, and using effective ingredients like those in the Skin by BYS Acne Control line that actually support your skin, healthy, calm, breakout-free skin is totally within reach. 

About Skin by BYS 
Skin by BYS is a skincare brand developed by BYS Cosmetics, dedicated to creating high-quality, innovative, and attainable products. Formulated and developed in South Korea, known for its quality and effective skincare, Skin by BYS brings proven solutions designed to help individuals embrace their natural beauty and feel confident in their own skin. Since its launch in 2021, BYS has distinguished itself as one of the first makeup brands in the Philippines to successfully expand into skincare, offering a seamless beauty experience that bridges cosmetics and skincare. By combining science-backed formulations with thoughtfully crafted routines, Skin by BYS empowers users to achieve healthy, radiant skin while keeping their daily rituals simple, effective, and accessible. 

The Skin by BYS Acne Control Line is now available in Watsons, SM Beauty, and online via Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. To know more about Skin by BYS, make sure to follow their social media sites: 


















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Romualdez Urges Lakas-CMD Unity to Drive Marcos Administration’s Legislative Agenda

February 11, 2026





MANILA — Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin Romualdez today called on members of the Lakas-CMD party to close ranks and accelerate the passage of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s priority bills. Romualdez emphasized that the party’s primary focus remains on translating the President’s vision into law through disciplined, cross-party cooperation and a unified front within the House of Representatives.

Romualdez underscored that the House is firmly focused on its legislative duties under the leadership of Speaker Bodjie Dy, who is currently steering the chamber’s action on priority measures endorsed by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC). He noted that the synergy between the party and the current leadership is essential to navigating the chamber's heavy workload and ensuring that the administration's policy goals are met with efficiency.

Furthermore, Romualdez highlighted the critical role of House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos in maintaining strong coordination between the House leadership and the majority bloc. He noted that such collaboration is vital for the orderly passage of legislation. As the representative of Leyte’s first district, Romualdez reiterated his commitment to substantive lawmaking that promotes inclusive growth, protects public welfare, and supports long-term national development.

“As legislators, our foremost responsibility is to pass laws that directly improve the lives of our people,” Romualdez said. “Lakas-CMD is fully committed to supporting the President’s legislative priorities and to working constructively with Speaker Bodjie Dy and all party leaders in the House. With limited time, what matters most is staying focused on legislation that delivers real, tangible benefits to Filipinos, as this is how we help shape the enduring legacy of this administration.”
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Pursuit of a more biker-inclusive SM yields Record-breaking 36 wins from DOTr, Mobility Awards

February 10, 2026


When the pandemic put the country in a standstill, many of the everyday yet vital services Filipinos had access to were revoked—one of which was transportation.

The absence of public transportation due to social distancing effectively limited every household's capability to commute for essentials, and many relied on biking as their lifeline.

Recognizing the urgency in supporting its customers and surrounding communities during the challenges of the pandemic, SM Supermalls strengthened the drive for Active Mobility across all of its malls nationwide. Since then, the mall leader has become a home and advocate for Active Mobility, remaining consistent in forging spaces that not only accommodate, but protect bikers.

Because of this effort, SM has won the trust and confidence of its stakeholders in advocating for sustainable travel, culminating in a record-breaking 34-win citation at the 2025 Mobility awards.


"What began as a heartfelt initiative to support bikers during COVID, has now become an integrated bike program spanning every single SM mall in the country," said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing, Joaquin San Agustin. "Active Mobility plays a crucial role not just in preserving the environment but in the enrichment of every Filipino. Thus, SM aims to continually foster the culture of biking across its properties by creating beloved places where movement is safe, easy, and inclusive for everyone."

Active Mobility Advances Through Coaction
Through a collaboration between its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares, its mall operations, and biking communities, SM continues to refine itself as a bike-friendly space championing maxed-out Active Mobility, cycling, and inclusive transport.


"It started with us setting up parking spots exclusive to bikes to ease access for cyclists picking up essentials in our malls. Then when the volume of cyclists picked up even as the lockdown eased, we knew we had to do more for them," said Mina Kahn, SM Division Head and Assistant Vice President for Transportation Management.

For the mall leader, this meant improving transport access through sustainable means it could easily replicate across its properties nationwide. This involved carving out dedicated spaces equipped with essential tools to safeguard and repair bikes, protecting bikes from scratches with upcycled tires cushioning racks, the introduction of intuitive bike lanes for biker safety, and the promotion of the culture of cycling.


From there, bike-friendly features have become staples even in recent developments and renovations with plans to implement more secure bike parking, install more racks, and clearer cycling lanes around the malls. Cycling groups also found a conducive haven for activities at SM properties. Biking events were regularly encouraged and hosted, with surrounding tenants adjusting operating hours to accommodate cyclists, further promoting biking not just as a mode of transportation but as a lifestyle and sport one could enjoy.

This in turn earned SM a total of 34 accolades at the recent Mobility Awards: One Gold, 11 Silver and 22 bronze for nationwide mall efforts in promoting and protecting cycling as a culture across its properties.


Additionally, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) cited SM's sustainable approach as a demonstration of its leadership, innovation and long-term commitment to making active transport safer and more accessible to Filipinos. Its Pedal Power 2025 program was highlighted for this year's Notable Advocacy Program and the SM Supermalls Sustainable Mobility and Bike-Friendly program received a citation for Notable Development by the Private Sector.

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About SM Supermalls
Celebrating 40 Super Years: A New Era of SM Supermalls, Evolving With You. SM Supermalls, one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 89 malls in the Philippines, marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and serving as a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect. As it enters a new era, SM Supermalls continues evolving with you, redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive, meaningful experiences for all.

About SM Cares
As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.















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SM amplifies grassroots ice sports development through third hosting of SEA Trophy: Largest turn out and PH wins in three years signals growing pool of future skating champions

February 10, 2026




MANILA, Philippines, 14 January 2026 - With the Southeast Asian (SEA) Open Short Track Speed Skating trophy's Philippine return, SM hopes the country's success at the international derby captures a crucial window of opportunity to further enrich local skating talent.

Designed as an entry-level international competition, the SEA Trophy gives young and emerging skaters the opportunity to compete, learn, and gain exposure on a friendly yet structured stage.
“We are thrilled with the results of the latest season of this international competition,” said Joseph Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Skating. “Since its inaugural run, we’ve seen steady growth in participation, and this year marks our highest turnout yet, along with the country’s strongest medal haul to date. Coupled with the surge of interest in ice sports following the Philippines’ recent SEA Games successes, we see this as a pivotal moment to spotlight the potential of our young, emerging athletes and further strengthen support for the development of their talent.”


On its third local mounting, the SEA Trophy has registered its largest volume of participants at 90 athletes ages six to 24 years old representing the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, India, and Indonesia. The Philippines emerged with a total medal win of 12 gold, 11 silver, and 6 bronze medals.

"Most of the athletes who join are starting out on their skating journeys. With this international competition, they gain more than a chance of winning medals. They attain access to a professional arena, while competing against regional athletes exposing them to different styles of athleticism," said Nikki Cheng, President of the Philippine Skating Union.

Giving young, emerging athletes a home and an arena to shine
A long-time advocate of ice sports in the Philippines, SM has been home to the SEA Trophy since 2023. Mounted by SM through its Sports and Leisure Center (SLC) and SM Skating, the competition was hosted at the Olympic-sized rink of SM Skating Mall of Asia—one of the country's most established ice sports venues.

Backed by the International Skating Union (ISU) Development Commission and the Philippine Sports Commission, the SEA Trophy also serves as a development platform that ensures global participation in ice sports while encouraging skills progression, coaching exchange, and cross border-collaboration.


“Beyond providing conducive spaces for athletes to train and compete, SM recognizes that true skill development comes from exposure to international competition,” said Silva. “Events like this put everything they’ve trained for to the test, while fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship, values that are honed only on the ice, alongside fellow athletes.”

Through this holistic approach, SM has given both emerging and competitive athletes a home that hones them into champions. SEA Games podium finisher Hans Buemio, started his skating journey at SM's skating rinks. He has gone on to qualify as the country’s first homegrown speed skater for the ISU Junior World Cup series and is preparing for the next competition in Utah. Meanwhile, emerging international skating athletes have also been honed through the SEA Trophy. Chinese skater Bingzhen Dai is also a product of the tournament and has been training in SM’s Skating Rinks for the last two years. Silva hopes that with holistic support, more emerging athletes like them can come to fulfill their potential.


"With SM, our skating industry will always have a home one that provides inclusive and accessible pathways for our talents to grow and succeed. Through the 2026 SEA Trophy, we look forward to discovering our future champions and showcasing their excellence to the world.”

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About SM Supermalls
SM Supermalls, one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 89 malls in the Philippines, marks four decades of growth with Filipinos, serving as a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect. As it enters a new era, SM Supermalls continues evolving with you, redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive, meaningful experiences for all.

SM Sports and Leisure Center
With the mission of revolutionizing fitness and sports engagement in the country, SM Sports and Leisure Center (SLC) is dedicated to max out the sports experiences of Filipinos—whether through fun bonding moments or high adrenaline competition. Its commitment is to building spaces Where Winning Begins, conducive for bringing out the best in every moment, play, and routine.









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All for You Matcha Madness Hits SM Supermalls

February 10, 2026


SM Supermalls takes Matcha Fest nationwide


MANILA, Philippines 5 February 2026 — Building on the first-ever Matcha Fest held at the Mall of Asia last year, your most loved, SM Supermalls returns with a larger, better, and more maxed experience celebrating all things matcha! SM Supermalls’ Matcha Fest 2026 is a great space for specialty cafes to connect with matcha fanatics. Local vendors get a chance to showcase their creativity to eager customers who want to explore the different varieties of the beloved Japanese green tea across your favorite SM malls.


Through the Matcha Fest, SM Supermalls continues to shape malls not just as spaces for shopping, but as destinations for discovery, community, and food and lifestyle experiences. As a gift to the matcha-loving community, SM levels up the celebration with a festival packed with even more matcha goodness, all thoughtfully curated, all for you.

SM J Mall, Upper Ground Level Atrium (February 1 to 15)
The first-ever Matcha Fest in Cebu at SM J Mall brings together celebrated brands such as Atelier Matcha, Your Daily Go Cafe, Kasa Brew, Celso’s Crib, No Bitter Feelings, Tsoko, DP Sweets, Oh Nata!, Ice Ice Baby, and Rampa Beads Bar. These cafes offer a modern twist to matcha, including lattes, whisked variants, and decadent desserts. The festival also features interactive experiences such as Matcha Painting sessions, Make Your Own Matcha Workshops on February 7 and 11, and Love Beats with Moni-Moni on February 14.



SM City Davao, Annex Event Center (February 1 to 10)
At SM City Davao, the festival aptly named Find Your Match-a, caters to matcha-loving couples who want to celebrate the month of hearts with a cup of matcha in their hands. Exhibitors include Matcha Ureshi Bar, Matcha Baby, Thirty Third Café, Hey Matcha People, Matchanagi, Matcha Deux, Ms. Matcha, and so many more. These cafes will sell a plethora of variants, including Dirty Matcha for those who want a caffeine kick, the finest Uji matcha lattes from Kyoto, Japan, and even some tropical flavors.



 CDO Downtown, 5th Level (February 6 to 28)
At SM CDO Downtown, tenants are gearing up for the festival with beloved local matcha shops and cafes. Matcha in different forms — sweet beverages, leche flans with matcha sauce, and even unique desserts will be offered for almost the entire month of February!


SM Podium, 2nd Level Atrium (February 5 to 8)
At SM Podium, matcha lovers can savor exciting creations from cafes such as Betcha! By Gaby Brews, Day Off Space, Hakone Matcha, Kokorobi Matcha, Kyoto House, Maison Midori, Matcha Folk, Shizu Matcha Bar, Take Five, and Whisk & Sip. Patrons can choose from a slew of matcha and hojicha flavors while dancing to live DJ sets or shopping for accessories, perfumes, and other trinkets.






SM Supermalls’ Matcha Fest is more than a celebration of flavor, but a toast to creativity, culture, and local businesses. The Matcha Fest is made for longtime connoisseurs and enthusiastic newcomers who want to join a growing community overflowing with love, curiosity, and a shared passion for discovering all things matcha—all for you, only at your most loved mall, SM.
 


About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving for a new era shaped by how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.
















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Get Your 2026 Craving Non-Negotiables At SM Supermalls in the Metro

February 10, 2026



For the new year, let’s raise the standards.

This is the year you stop making compromises when it comes to your cravings. No rushed decisions. No “this is good enough.” And more importantly, no more meals that feel like an afterthought.

SM Supermalls is starting the year by bringing in new dining spots that can transport you to a new era full of fresher concepts, bolder flavors, and better choices. Proving time and time again why it deserves to be your most beloved mall with spots that raise expectations, break routines, and make eating out feel fun again.

So before your calendar fills up with plan after plan, consider this your ultimate craving promise: to never negotiate when it comes to where and how you eat. Because if there’s one thing we’re not bringing into the year, it’s settling.


NON-NEGOTIABLE 1: Snacks Shouldn't Feel Like A Placeholder
Snacking isn’t something you do just to get by–it’s something you do because you actually want to eat. This year, snacks have to show up with flavor, personality, and zero shortcuts. Whether it’s something cheesy, crispy, or straight-up addictive, quick bites should still feel worth the stop.




● Pizza Planet
Prepare to blast off into a galaxy of flavors at Pizza Planet, located at the Annex, Upper Ground Level of SM North EDSA. When the craving hits, cheesy and gooey is the only right answer–and this fun, playful spot delivers every time. It’s your sure fix for comfort food done right, serving an out-of-this-world experience for kids, kids at heart, and anyone who takes their pizza seriously.


● Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks
From Taiwan’s streets straight to your plate–Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks at the Foodcourt, SM City Fairview serves crispy, juicy hits you won’t want to miss. XXL Chicken, Handmade Oyster Mee Sua, and all the bold flavors.


NON-NEGOTIABLE 2: All-in Should Mean Actually Going ALL In
All-you-can-eat only works when it actually delivers. No half-hearted spreads. No playing it safe. This year, if you’re committing to unlimited, it has to feel generous, intentional, and satisfying from the first plate to the last.


● King’s Feast Luxury Buffet by Buffet 101
Feast like royalty at King’s Feast Luxury Buffet by Buffet 101, soon to open at the 5th Level of The Block at SM North EDSA. This luxurious all-you-can-eat experience features mouthwatering local and international flavors that never skimp on quality or taste, promising a truly decadent dining adventure fit for kings and queens.


● Mo-Mo Paradise
Say “more, more!” to good food at Mo-Mo Paradise–the first in PH at the Level 3, Mega Fashion Hall of SM Megamall. When the plan is unlimited hot pot, this is the place you go straight to. Slow-simmered shabu-shabu and sukiyaki set the standard for sharing, slurping, and lingering over a proper meal.




NON-NEGOTIABLE 3: Bold Flavors Are Not Optional
This is the year we stop dialing it down. Big flavors, strong profiles, and dishes that don’t hold back—because great meals should leave an impression. If you’re craving something with heat, depth, or attitude, subtle isn’t part of the plan.


● Siklab+
For local flavors with a twist you won’t want to miss, head on over to Siklab+ at the ground level of S Maison. This is the kind of place that resets your expectations, where Paboritong Pork Sisig, Kuhol ni Tanggol, and Kalamay sa Latik become the benchmark you compare everything else to.


● Thaiwadee
When the craving is Thai, you don’t experiment... you go straight to Thaiwadee, soon opening at the Foodcourt of SM Southmall. Their Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong stay true to that mix of heat, tang, depth, and all that you’re looking for when you’re not in the mood to compromise.


● Royal Indian Curry House Bistro
Satisfy your curry cravings at Royal Indian Curry House Bistro soon to open on the 5th Level of The Block at SM North EDSA. When you’re in the mood for Indian food, bold flavor and real spice aren’t optional—and this is where you go for it. From their rich Murgh Makhani to their fragrant Hyderabadi Biryani, every dish hits exactly the way it should.


NON-NEGOTIABLE 4: Eating Healthy Should Never Be Boring
Healthy doesn’t mean boring, and it definitely shouldn’t feel like a compromise. With the first Salady in PH at the Level 5 of the Fashion Hall in SM Megamall, choosing lighter meals no longer feels like you’re missing out.


NON-NEGOTIABLE 5: Coffee Stops Should Actually Feel Like A Pause Worth Taking
Coffee isn’t just about the drink, it’s about slowing down, sitting longer than planned, and pairing it with something you’ll still think about later. Cafe Kulture brings that energy to the Level 3, South MOA Sky of SM Mall of Asia, turning coffee and pastries into a moment, not just a routine.

The standards are set, so let your cravings do the rest.

You don’t need a plan for this part, you’ll know when you’re hungry. And when your craving finally calls, your favorite SM Supermalls has already answered with more new spaces, new names, and better food options than ever.

No overthinking, no settling. Just choosing what feels right in the moment, and knowing there’s always something new waiting the next time you come back.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

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#NewEraOfSMSupermalls All For You
At SM Supermalls, a bold New Era unfolds with Evolving Finds–bringing together the best in brands, dining, and experiences. From world-class cuisine and exclusive retail discoveries to inspiring spaces that bring communities together, SM continues to evolve to give you the very best in one place.

As we grow, our commitment to sustainability, community empowerment, and creating meaningful moments remains at the heart of everything we do, shaping spaces that people return to and experiences they genuinely enjoy. Because at your most loved mall, SM Supermalls, everything we do is all for you.




































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SM Celebrates National Autism Consciousness Week with great strides in true inclusion

February 10, 2026


First in the country, SM Sensory Lab launch marks a new chapter in inclusive spaces built for people on the Autism spectrum
MANILA, Philippines — SM Supermalls enters its new era as a truly inclusive Mall for All with ground-breaking milestones launched during this year's National Autism Consciousness Week (NACW).
Through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares, SM celebrated acceptance and appreciation with nationwide efforts that aimed to elevate the mall-going experience of Filipinos on the autism spectrum in accommodating spaces built to be loved.
"This year's celebration of the NACW is a great step forward for SM Supermalls as we hosted 'Lights Up, Sounds Down' (LUSD) and opened the very first 'SM Sensory Lab'--the country's only dedicated mall space for people with sensory processing challenges," said Steven Tan, SM Supermalls President. "On top of our year-long programs to uphold inclusivity across all malls, these milestones echo our ultimate desire of ensuring every single customer finds their most loved space at SM."


SM Sensory Lab: An innovation in accommodating mall spaces

Crowning the celebration was SM's launch of a ground-breaking innovative space designed to serve children and adults experiencing sensory processing challenges. In partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), and with the support of the Autism Society Philippines, the SM Sensory Lab was officially opened in SM Mall of Asia as the country's first-ever calming corner.

"Opening the SM Sensory Lab was a natural next step in our relentless pursuit of making our malls truly inclusive. We collaborated closely with the DSWD, NCDA and Autism Society Philippines to ensure we were making all the right considerations for something that's never been done before," said Tan.

With soft lighting, calming seating, and sensory-friendly features, the SM Sensory Lab brought accessibility into everyday mall life — showing that inclusion goes beyond awareness and is rooted in thoughtful design and lived experience. The space was built to accommodate a total of 10 people to give persons with sensory processing challenges and their guardian enough space to feel at ease.

Enhanced through the SM Malls Online App, customers who may need the space simply have to scan a QR code through the app to use the space completely free of charge.

Lights up, Sounds Down: Specialized events bringing families together




At the heart of the week’s activities was also Lights Up, Sounds Down — sensory-friendly movie screenings designed to remove common barriers that make traditional cinema settings overwhelming.
In partnership with SM Cinema, the series of screenings was tailored specifically for the ease and comfort of customers on the autism spectrum. Across selected malls, families were welcomed into theatres with adjusted lighting and reduced sound levels, creating an environment that fostered comfort, joy, and shared experience.

"Something as simple as going to the cinema can be a stressful experience not just for people on the spectrum but for their families as well. Through this effort SM intentionally enhanced an accommodating movie-going experience through SM Cinemas so people with autism and their families can finally watch a film in a movie house together," said Tan.


When SM Supermalls first hosted LUSD, the initiative was a one-mall event. Now, the effort has grown to accommodate more than 5,000 participants with their families in screenings spanning multiple malls across the Philippines. This year, two new malls expanded the reach of the event with SM City BF Paranaque and SM City Butuan joining the network of SM Supermalls hosting their own screenings.

Additionally, inclusivity measures are implemented consistently nationwide through SM Cares. Information campaigns empower empathy and greater acceptance of individuals with autism. Mall front-liners like security guards, mall tenants, and mall operations are also trained and given refresher courses on how to support customers on the spectrum.


“Being an inclusive mall isn’t just a one-week observance,” said Tan. “Our efforts for this celebration are reinforced by our strengthened resolve to continually ensure every SM Supermall in the country empowers its people and surrounding communities to be accepting, appreciative and accommodating to our customers regardless of their needs.”

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About SM Cares
As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.






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Strong MSME Engagement Sets the Stage for SM Supermalls’ 2026 Programs

February 10, 2026


Nationwide malls drive MSME upskilling, growth, and sustainable enterprise


Under the SM for MSMEs program, MSME Hub owners Alamanga and Rainbow Scoops bring locally made flavors and proudly Filipino products closer to the community—proof that when small businesses are given the right platform, they grow and thrive.

MANILA, Philippines, 26 January 2026 — Building on strong MSME momentum in 2025, SM Supermalls is entering 2026 with a renewed and sharped focus on empowering Filipino entrepreneurs, leveraging its nationwide mall network to create tangible growth opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Through its SM for MSMEs program, SM Supermalls empowered 920 new MSMEs and start-ups in 2025, with nearly 10% successfully transitioning into regular mall tenants through kiosks, counters, or in-line stores nationwide. Since its enhanced rollout in March 2024, the program has supported 2,288 unique MSMEs, providing real-world platforms where entrepreneurs can test, refine, and scale their businesses.
In 2025 alone, 28,761 MSME booth activations were mounted nationwide, driven by a growing consumer demand for locally made, experience-led products across food and beverage, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle categories.
Honoring MSME Excellence
The annual SM for MSMEs Wall of Champions recognized outstanding MSME awardees and finalists whose businesses demonstrated exemplified resilience, innovation, and community impact—serving as a tribute to Filipino entrepreneurship and its vital role in nation-building.
“The private sector has a role to play in enabling the future growth of the MSME sector,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Supporting the grassroots economy is a long-term commitment we intend to uphold.”

2025 MSME awardees and finalists gathered at the SM for MSMEs Wall of Champions with executives from SM Supermalls and the Department of Trade and Industry, celebrating excellence, resilience, and community impact.

“SM is like a big brother to smaller businesses like us,” said Euclid S. Cezar, President and CEO of Famous Belgian Waffle and a 2025 Medium Enterprise finalist. “Being recognized motivates us to expand, innovate, and bring our products to more communities.”
Nation-Building Through Partnerships
From learning summits and curated markets to large scale trade fairs, SM Supermalls worked closely with key partners including the Department of Trade and Industry, Go Negosyo, media organizations, trade fair organizers, and MSME exhibitors to deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for entrepreneurs nationwide.

DTI and SM Supermalls spotlight the Philippine coconut industry as MSMEs take centerstage—local entrepreneurs proudly showcasing coconut-based products crafted by 

Cong TV, Viy Cortez, Ivy Cortez, and Rolly Cortez joined MSMEs and mallgoers during the VIYLine MSME Caravan at SM City Santa Rosa

During the VIYLine MSME Caravan opening at SM City Santa Rosa, Cong TV surprised the crowd by revealing himself onstage after posing as a cameraman. 

Influencers and entrepreneur-creators met fans and shoppers during the VIYLine MSME Caravan at SM City Santa Rosa, bringing digital communities into real-world marketplaces. 

According to the Department of Trade and Industry, MSMEs account for 99.63% of businesses and 66.58% of total employment in the Philippines, underscoring their critical role as the backbone of the national economy.
Major 2025 highlights included the DTI National Food Fair, Negros Trade Fair, Women Strong Trade Fair by WomenBizPH, VIYLine MSME Caravan, and the Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025, which energized the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall with mentorship sessions and business insights, highlighted by Francis Kong’s talk, “Now and Next: The Trends in Business for MSMEs.”




The Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025 energized the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall last July 19, bringing together entrepreneurs and mentors for inspiring talks, mentorship, and growth opportunities—highlighted by Francis Kong’s session, “Now and Next: The Trends in Business for MSMEs.”

Expanding Opportunities Beyond Metro Manila
Leveraging its nationwide footprint, SM Supermalls expanded regional trade fairs and themed marketplaces across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, bringing high-visibility platforms closer to local communities and advancing more inclusive, region-led growth.


The Negros Trade Fair opening day at SMX Aura drew crowds eager to experience Negrense delicacies, craftsmanship, and heritage products.


Women-led enterprises showcased proudly Filipino products at the Women Strong Trade Fair at SM Megamall, championing collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth.


DTI Region IV-A Coco Festival Food Fair
January 14–20, 2026 | SM City San Pablo
Featuring coconut-based products and local delicacies from MSMEs in Region IV-A.


Philstar Nakakalokal Bazaar
January 16–18| SM Seaside City Cebu
Showcasing homegrown food, fashion, crafts, and lifestyle brands from the Visayas and the Cordillera region, highlighting locally made MSME products.

The Silk Events Bazaar (upcoming)
January 28–February 10, 2026 | SM La Union
A curated lifestyle and artisan market offering MSMEs extended exposure in a tourism-driven destination.

As SM Supermalls moves into 2026, SM for MSMEs continues to evolve as a scalable growth platform—transforming participation into opportunity, and opportunity into sustainable enterprise for Filipino entrepreneurs nationwide.



About SM Supermalls – MSMEs
Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 89 malls nationwide—continues to maximize the MSME experience by creating opportunities that are relevant, inclusive, and built around what Filipino entrepreneurs need most. As the country’s most loved and preferred marketplace for MSMEs, SM champions Filipino entrepreneurship by empowering businesses across different stages and sectors—supporting every MSME tribe through market access, visibility, mentorship, and sustainable growth. By connecting communities, showcasing homegrown talent, and fueling innovation, SM helps small businesses thrive in ways that feel personal, purposeful, and impactful. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today.




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