Women Entrepreneurs Shine at SM Supermalls this Women’s Month

 

Successful Women Strong Network event launched at SM Lanang showcasing women-led MSMEs. L-R: Irene Boey Lin Fong,

Chairperson of AWEN Singapore, Toukta Chounramany, Focal Point of AWEN Laos, Rhoda Caliwaran, Chairperson of

WomenBizPH, Maika Nurhayati, Focal Point of AWEN Indonesia, Baby Montemayor, Trustee of Women Biz PH Davao, Mylene

Abiva, Trustee of WomenBizPH, Mr. Lin Fong and Russel Aldaba, SAVP for Marketing in Mindanao of SM Supermalls.

Women-led businesses took center stage as the

WomenBizPH Trade Fair successfully opened at SM Lanang

Premier from March 12–14, celebrating the creativity,

resilience, and growing impact of Filipina micro, small, and

medium enterprises (MSMEs). Organized by WomenBizPH

in partnership with SM Supermalls, the three-day trade

fair brought together inspiring women entrepreneurs

showcasing a vibrant mix of proudly local products—from

artisanal pastries and handcrafted accessories to healthy

snacks, woven apparel, delicacies, and wellness products.

More than just a marketplace, the event highlighted

the powerful stories behind the brands, demonstrating

how women entrepreneurs continue to transform

passion into purpose and innovation into livelihood

opportunities.

Women entrepreneurs take center stage at the WomenBizPH Trade

Fair at SM Lanang Premier, where women-led MSMEs proudly

showcased local products in celebration of Women’s Month.

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Filipina entrepreneurs proudly present their brands at the WomenBizPH Trade Fair, highlighting the creativity, resilience, and

innovation of women-led MSMEs.

From handcrafted fashion pieces to

artisanal food products, women-led

MSMEs showcased a diverse array of

Filipino creations at the

WomenBizPH Trade Fair.

Sustainable fashion takes the spotlight as women-led brands present handcrafted apparel that celebrates Filipino

craftsmanship and modern design.

Inspiring Stories Behind Women-Led MSMEs

Behind every product on display is a powerful story of

determination, innovation, and purpose. Across the

country, women entrepreneurs continue to transform

challenges into opportunities, building businesses that

uplift communities and preserve Filipino craftsmanship.

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Empowering Artisans Through Creativity

Sustainable and timeless—these two words define the aesthetic

of Sassy’s Creation Enterprise, a brand where traditional

Philippine craftsmanship meets modern innovation. By blending

heritage weaving techniques with contemporary design, Sassy’s

Creation produces ethically curated fashion staples designed for

EveryBODY, using upcycled fabrics and locally sourced weaves

that reflect both sustainability and style.

Behind every Sassy piece are the

skilled hands of women artisans,

including home-based mothers and

women from the Bureau of Jail

Management and Penology (BJMP)

in Antipolo, Rizal, who carefully craft

each item with dedication and pride.

Through these collaborations, the

brand provides meaningful livelihood

opportunities while celebrating Filipino craftsmanship.

For the founder of Sassy’s Creation, entrepreneurship is not only about

building a brand—it is also about uplifting communities. “Our goal is not only to create meaningful

products but also to support local artisans and weaving communities across the country,” she shared.

By working closely with weaving communities and showcasing their handcrafted pieces through trade

fairs and retail platforms, Sassy’s Creation continues to help preserve traditional Filipino crafts while

bringing them into today’s lifestyle and fashion landscape. Discover their products on Instagram:

@sassyscreationph

Carrying Forward a Legacy

For Cynthia M. Eusebio, owner of

Magpoc’s Pastry Products

Manufacturing in Bataan,

entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in

family heritage.

“Magpoc’s isn’t just a label—it’s a

legacy of providing for our community.

I stepped into this role to honor the

women who came before me while

evolving the brand for the next

generation,” she shared.

Now a third-generation leader of the brand, Eusebio continues to innovate by expanding Magpoc’s reach

through digital platforms and new product offerings while preserving the traditional recipes that built

the business. Discover their products on Facebook: MagpocsAraroCookies

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From Survival to Strength

For Cebu-based entrepreneur Cuevas Planas, founder of Kirby’s Chicharon,

her business journey represents resilience and the courage to start over.

“I started small, making chicharon and quietly selling

to stores and offices. That small income became my

hope and my courage—it helped me rebuild my life

and prove that even from nothing, you can rise

again,” she shared.

Through perseverance and faith, Planas built her

brand from humble beginnings, eventually gaining

the confidence to showcase her products in larger

markets and trade fairs. Discover their products on

Facebook: kirbyschicharonph

Turning Passion into Healthy Innovation

Meanwhile, Flaviano’s Health Food Products, based in Laguna,

was born from a shared passion for creating innovative food

products.

“Every challenge teaches us something. Even during difficult

times like the pandemic, we continued innovating and moving

forward—because every step we take brings us closer to

success,” the entrepreneur shared.

Today, the brand continues to develop healthier food options while exploring new opportunities to reach

more customers through platforms like SM Supermalls. Discover their products on Facebook:

FlavianosFood

SM Supermalls: A Launchpad for Future Filipino Brands

Through initiatives like the WomenBizPH Trade Fairs, SM Supermalls continues to serve as a

marketplace where MSMEs can grow, gain visibility, and reach new markets.

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“At SM Supermalls, we see MSMEs not just as exhibitors but as future brands in the making. By providing

accessible platforms where entrepreneurs can showcase their products and connect with customers, we

help nurture the next generation of Filipino brands,” said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President

for Marketing at SM Supermalls.

For many entrepreneurs, showcasing their products in SM malls represents a major milestone—opening

doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and customers.

This commitment reflects SM Supermalls’ long-standing advocacy of supporting MSMEs as drivers of

inclusive economic growth and community development.

Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs

This Women’s Month, SM Supermalls invites shoppers to discover the inspiring women behind these

brands and support their journeys toward growth and success.

Because when women entrepreneurs rise, they do more than grow businesses—they uplift families,

empower communities, and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Setting the scenes for Mindanao’s main characters at SM Supermalls

Let’s be honest, Mindanao–we’ve never been background characters. There’s a certain confidence in the way we move. We’re sharp, bold, and sure of what we want. We don’t need to be loud to show who’s the leading character.

Instant Jobs, Real Impact: Stories from SM Group Job Fair at SM North EDSA

 

 “Hindi ko po akalain na matatanggap ako ngayon,” shared Felo Garcia, hired on the spot as a Sales Associate. “Salamat po SM dahil makaka-provide na ako sa mga pangangailangan ng anak ko at pamilya ko.”

Another hired-on-the-spot applicant, Joel Azores, emphasized the credibility and impact of the event, saying, “One hundred percent ka po matatanggap sa Mega Job Fair dahil puro legit na company dito.”

We Stannin’ HARD: Best New Finds in Luzon with SM Supermalls

We are all about that stan life. A new album from a rising artist? Fanboy/fangirl mode activated. A freshly opened concept store? Consider us a fan. Entering your fitness era? Support. Whether it's a personality we love or a lifestyle we aspire to, as long as it resonates with the life we want, we are stanning hard.

Here at SM Supermalls, you don’t need to look any further. Everything—and we mean everything—that will get you hyped up for months is right here. From the hottest new finds across Luzon to everyday essentials that hit different, these stores have us hooked, and we just cannot get enough. As your most-loved mall, SM continues to be an icon worthy of all our attention.

All For Our Foodie Stans
Ah yes, food. Who isn’t a fan, right? From familiar dining destinations to new food hubs to explore, we are stanning hard!

• Pho Hoa
  A fan of Vietnamese classics? The soon-to-open, first-in-Cavite Pho Hoa at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Bacoor serves soulful bowls of pho, alongside staple sides like spring rolls, vermicelli bowls, and flavorful rice plates. With meals that’ll remind you of your last trip to Vietnam, Pho Hoa is the perfect spot to savor the familiar flavors of the country.

• Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings
  For all our buffalo wings stans, the first-in-Bulacan Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings at the West Wing of SM City Marilao brings its iconic variations to the table, with flavors ranging from classic buffalo to garlic parmesan and honey sriracha. Craving wings? This is your chance to dig in until you drop.

• Manam
  And if you’re simply a fan of home, Manam in the Ground Level of SM City Marilao is your best pick! The first-in-Bulacan, Manam elevates Filipino comfort food with creative twists. Ever heard of their iconic Watermelon Beef Sinigang? Yep, that’s Manam for you!
  
  

All For Our Lifestyle & Fashion Stans
If she’s having it, we’re ALL having it. Trends let us feel part of a community where we truly belong. From accessories you can carry all day to lifestyle must-haves, we’re all about riding the hype.

• Aquaflask Designs
  If you're a fan of carrying your personality with you, the first-in-Batangas AquaFlask Designs makes hydration look good with functional, sleek tumblers that you can customize—from colors and sizes to all the accessories you can pair them with. Opening soon at the Ground Level of SM City Batangas, AquaFlask Designs lets your personality shine through whether you're heading to the gym, to class, or just malling around SM.
  
  

• Sunnies Studios
  Sunnies Studios continues to be a staple for eyewear and lifestyle essentials. Its newest store at the Ground Level of SM City San Pablo brings that signature cool directly to your everyday wardrobe and gets you looking like your idol. Known for trendy and timeless styles, Sunnies Studios offers a range of eyewear for all our accessories stans out there.
  
  
  
  

• The Loop
  All for our tech-savvy stans, The Loop at Level 3 of SM Center Tuguegarao Downtown is your newest go-to spot for anything gadget and gadget accessories, bringing in products that are sure to empower you whether you're a student, a professional, or just vibin’ through life.
  
  
  
  

• Decathlon
  For sport and adventure stans who love gearing up for every experience, the newest Decathlon at Level 3 of SM City Grand Central brings over 70 sports’ worth of equipment, apparel, and accessories into one space. From running shoes to yoga mats, hiking gear to swim essentials, Decathlon location makes it simple to shop everything you need to stay active and stylish.
  
  
  All For Our Wellness Stans
  Wellness first? Healthy fitness habits? We can’t help but stan those who take good care of themselves—and lowkey, we all aspire to be like them!
  
  
  
  
  
  

• Iremia Headspa
  If wellness is your goal this year, Iremia Headspa at the 2nd Level of SM City Clark is where self-care becomes part of your everyday life. A first in SM, it offers structured head and scalp treatments focused on relaxation and reset. Wanna be your own #1 fan? This is the spot for anyone who’s ready to take their well-being seriously.
  
  

• Anytime Fitness
  For fitness stans focused on building a healthier body, the new Anytime Fitness at the Lower Ground Floor of SM City Trece Martires brings the globally recognized 24/7 gym experience right into your routine. Equipped with machines and tools for every fitness goal, AF is where your fitness journey becomes more accessible and more fun to return to.

ICONIC—SM Supermalls stan here! From the best in fitness and wellness to dining concepts you’re sure to love, whatever you’re stanning in life, your most-loved SM Supermalls has got it all for you.

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

The Water Stewardship Journey Continues for SM Supermalls

For three decades, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) has steadfastly advanced responsible water stewardship for a more resilient water future through SM Supermalls, its operating arm. 

SM Prime invested in its first Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in the late 90’s with SM Southmall. STPs are essential for protecting public health and the environment, along with supporting community development. Since then, STPs have become a standard fixture in all 89 malls, reducing water waste and pollution, and safeguarding water resources. 

SM Supermalls embeds water conservation practices across its operations. Recycled water is used in water closets for flushing, cleaning, and watering greens. Additionally, efficient low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies prevent unnecessary consumption at scale. 

"SM had always been conscious of its environmental impact on shared social good. Our water journey is rooted in our commitment to maximize what we borrow from the environment, creating resiliency for future generations,” said Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President and Head of Sustainability and Resilience.

Today, SM is evaluating centralized STPs that can serve multiple developments and allow for inter-building treatment systems, lowering operational costs, and enhancing process efficiency. "Part of our water resilience framework is building long-term capacity for water disruptions. Since the standardization of STPs across our malls, SM took it a step further and scaled its water sustainability efforts," said Silerio.

 

A first in the industry, SM City Baguio's Rainwater Treatment Facility has already processed almost 20,000 cubic meters of rainwater into potable water since it was launched, providing 30% of the mall’s total monthly clean water requirement since 2023. This translates to saving the equivalent of 12.7 million, 1.5-liter mineral water bottles or almost eight Olympic-sized swimming pools of freshwater from the grid.

 

  

Leveraging the mall’s nationwide reach, SM further campaigns sustainable water use through consistent awareness and engagement, SM creates public awareness and education campaigns through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares to activate future water stewards in the community.

This proactive and efficient approach resulted in SM malls receiving multiple industry distinctions such as the Bantayog ng Lawa Award from the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) and the first ever Gawad Taga-Ilog Award bestowed upon a private entity by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

"We’ve come a long way since the 90’s. It’s heartwarming to be recognized by our community and peers, but we continue to work harder for future generations because water is a universal human right. By implementing these sustainability measures, SM aims to move forward with greater purpose and greater possibilities," said Silerio.

 

Vinta Market sets sail at newly opened SM City Zamboanga, championing local MSMEs

 

The ceremonial opening marks the launch of Vinta Market, a vibrant marketplace dedicated to showcasing proudly local products from MSMEs across the Zamboanga Peninsula.

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — As SM City Zamboanga opened its doors on March 20, the vibrant spirit of local entrepreneurship and culture took center stage with the unveiling of Vinta Market, a colorful marketplace dedicated to supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Launched in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 9 and the SM for MSMEs program, the Vinta Market brings together 20 local MSMEs, showcasing proudly regional products ranging from handcrafted items and artisanal goods to local delicacies, fashion pieces, and unique souvenirs.

SM Supermalls executives  and DTI Region 9 officials lead the ceremonial opening of the Vinta Market at SM City Zamboanga, celebrating a new platform for local MSMEs. (L-R: DTI Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Director, Ma. Rovie Manzanares; DTI Zamboanga City Office Provincial Director, Grace Aduca; SM Supermalls AVP for SM Communities Program, Royston Cabunag; DTI Regional Director Al-Zamir Lipae; SM Supermalls SAVP for SM Communities Marketing, Pats Dy;  DTI Assistant Regional Director, Maridel Dengal;  and SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing, Joaquin San Agustin)

Inspired by the iconic vinta, the traditional sailboat known for its vibrant sails and deep cultural roots in Mindanao, the Vinta Market reflects the same spirit of color, movement, and community. The marketplace brings together passionate entrepreneurs and skilled artisans, offering mallgoers a lively and meaningful shopping experience rooted in local culture. 

More than just a retail destination, the Vinta Market serves as a growth platform for MSMEs—and for many entrepreneurs, this opportunity translates into real business expansion and sustained livelihood.

“We are very happy for the opportunity given to us by SM City Zamboanga… because of that, I have a growing market and a lot of suki na at SM,” shared Maria Donna of Marya Soaps and Scents from Pagadian, highlighting how increased visibility at SM has helped strengthen her customer base.

For heritage artisans, the impact goes beyond business—it’s about preserving culture and passing traditions to future generations. “Maraming salamat sa mga opportunity na mga ganito na pwede kaming magbenta para makahanap lalo ng market… kayo na ‘yung kasangga namin sa pag-promote ng aming weave,” said Evelinda Otong, a 4th generation Yakan weaver, underscoring the importance of platforms like SM in sustaining local craftsmanship.

Through capacity-building programs and expanded market access, MSMEs are also able to scale their operations and reach wider audiences.

“With their trainings and seminars, we’ve learned a lot… we’re proud to say that we supply all over the Philippines—and with SM Supermalls, our products can reach around the country and are now in the mainstream market,” shared Shaun Alavar of Alavar Food Products, reflecting the broader growth opportunities enabled through the partnership.

Featured MSMEs proudly showcase their locally made products at the Vinta Market, highlighting the passion and dedication behind every creation.

During the launch event, SM Supermalls executives, DTI officials, and partner stakeholders joined entrepreneurs and guests in celebrating the opening of the marketplace—highlighting a shared commitment to empower local businesses and provide them with greater market opportunities.

Visitors explored booths filled with proudly local products—each representing stories of craftsmanship, passion, and perseverance. The marketplace quickly became a vibrant hub where mallgoers discovered unique regional goods while supporting local livelihoods.

Intricately crafted local products showcase the artistry and cultural heritage of Mindanao’s talented artisans.

The launch of Vinta Market stands as one of the highlights of the opening of SM City Zamboanga, the city’s newest lifestyle destination bringing together shopping, dining, entertainment, and community experiences closer to Zamboangueños.

Locally made delicacies from MSMEs offer shoppers a taste of Zamboanga’s rich culinary heritage at the Vinta Market.

Through initiatives like the Vinta Market, SM Supermalls continues to champion Filipino entrepreneurship, providing MSMEs with accessible platforms to grow their businesses while celebrating the rich culture and creativity of local communities.

As shoppers explore the colorful stalls and meet the passionate makers behind the products, the Vinta Market stands as a vibrant symbol of Zamboanga’s thriving entrepreneurial spirit—where tradition, creativity, and opportunity sail forward together.

About SM Supermalls – MSMEs

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 designed around what Filipino entrepreneurs need most. As the country’s most preferred and loved retail destination, SM champions entrepreneurship by supporting MSMEs across different stages and sectors—serving diverse business tribes through market access, visibility, mentorship, and platforms that help enterprises grow and thrive. From emerging startups to growing homegrown brands, SM provides a marketplace where Filipino innovation can flourish, connecting entrepreneurs to communities and customers in meaningful ways. Because when MSMEs succeed, communities grow stronger—and every opportunity created is part of SM’s commitment to building a future designed All For You. To learn more, visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com.

Santé Bags Innovative Health and Fitness Solutions Award at The Living Laurels 2024

 Santé, one of the fastest-growing distribution and direct-selling companies globally dedicated to helping people live better lives, wins the Innovative Health and Fitness Solutions at the inaugural The Living Laurels 2024 awards, an award-giving body organized by Malaya Business Insight.

 

The Living Laurels 2024 aims to honor individuals and companies that have risen above challenges to improve the quality of others' lives while advancing their industries. The category, which Santé won, recognizes health and fitness innovations, as well as industry leaders, who have adapted to customers' evolving requirements and preferences.