SM Development Corporation Celebrates 20th Anniversary

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SMDC@20. In celebration of its 20th anniversary, SMDC formally opens a 3day trade show at MOA Music Hall to showcase the vibrancy of its communities. At the ceremonial lock-and-key ceremony were: Marking C. Que, SMDC SVP and head of customer support; Gen. Bernard Yang of SPD NCR; Grace Evangeline M. Sta. Ana, SMDC EVP and head of core operations and product development; Sen. Richard Gordon, Red Cross chairman and CEO and Jessica Bianca T. Sy, SMDC VP and head of design, innovation and strategy. 


SM Development Corporation (SMDC) celebrates 20 years of excellence in real estate with a grand three-day trade show at the MOA Music Hall from November 22 to 24, 2024. This immersive event invites media to experience The Good Life in an SMDC community. Through a guided walkthrough of an SMDC property, guests explore its exceptional features – from the grand lobby and hotel-like lounges to the wide, open spaces, expansive amenities, commercial strips and the vibrant community that make SMDC living truly unique.

(L-R)Carlo Alampay, VP and Head of Regulatory Affairs (SMDC), Marking Que, SVP and Head of Customer Support (SMDC), Gen Bernard Yang (SPD NCR), Grace Evangeline Sta. Ana, EVP and Head of Core Operations and Project Development (SMDC), Jessica Bianca Sy, VP and Head of Design, Innovation and Strategy (SMDC) 

The event offers an exciting opportunity to experience the innovations, history, and future vision of SMDC through interactive walkthroughs, inspiring talks, star-studded performances, and exclusive deals.

This anniversary marks two decades of transforming the real estate landscape with sustainable and community-driven living solutions.

 Experience The Good Life at SMDC's trade show, Nov 22-24 at MOA Music Hall! 

SMDC unveiled a rebranding program to usher its 20th year anniversary

Jessica Sy, project director of SMDC and the daughter of SMDC Chairman Henry Sy, Jr, said in her speech during the program that SMDC will not rest on its laurels but continue to “innovate, to keep improving, and to make sure SMDC communities remain places where every Filipino can build a bright future.”

Jessica Bianca Sy, VP and head of design, innovation and strategy at SMDC

In the past 20 years, Sy said SMDC had not only the homes it built but also nurtured the communities and the lives it helped it had changed. “That’s what the good life is all about—creating spaces where people feel like they truly belong, where they can build their dreams. I hope you saw how important you all are in that process,” she said.

Sy said also paid tribute to the people who joined SMDC in building the dream homes of Filipinos.

“From the designers who craft spaces that inspire, to the property managers who make our communities feel warm and welcoming, to the support teams who work behind the scenes, and, of course, to the sellers and residents who bring these communities to life—you are the reason we are here today.”

Sy described the last 20 years of the SMDC as a collective effort and shared journed filled with the dedication, passion, and resilience of an incredible team. Further, she said the SMDC team didn’t just built homes to shelter people but provide venues where friendships bloom, where families thrive, and where neighbors become like family. “This is the true heart of SMDC, and it’s why we’re so proud of the homes and communities we’ve created. ”

Guests enjoy the lobby representing the grand lobby of an SMDC home. 

SMDC formally opens the 3day trade show at MOA Music Hall on Friday, Nov. 22, with SMDC executives and partners: Gen. Bernard Yang of SPD NCR; Marking C. Que, SMDC SVP for Customer Support; Grace Evangeline M. Sta. Ana, SMDC EVP and head of Core Operations and Product Development (4th from left); Jessica Bianca T. Sy, VP and head of Design, Innovation and Strategy (6th from left) and Sen. Richard Gordon, Red Cross chairman and CEO. 

Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon being toured by SMDC's Grace Evangeline Sta. Ana, EVP and head of core operations and product development, and Jessica Bianca Sy, VP and head of design, innovation and strategy. 

Actress Isabel Oli-Prats enjoys a tour of the trade show

Actors Isabel Oli and Teddy Marquez join SMDC executives at the walkthrough during the opening of SMDC's 20th Anniversary Trade Show at the MOA Music Hall on Nov 22. 

SMDC at a Glance SM Development Corporation is the residential arm of SM Prime, one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers. Known as the "Home of The Good Guys," SMDC is dedicated to developing inclusive and sustainable communities that connect people to progress. Its residential projects are strategically located near SM malls, transport hubs, and key business districts, ensuring residents have convenient access to life's essentials. As a wholly owned subsidiary of SM Prime, SMDC integrates its developments with the broader SM ecosystem, enhancing the quality of life for its residents and supporting economic growth and urban connectivity. SMDC's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its focus on efficient land use, green spaces, and energy-efficient building practices, aimed at creating communities that are both livable and environmentally responsible.

SMDC has been transforming the Philippine real estate market since delivering its first residential development, Chateau Elysee in Paranaque, in 2004. With a focus on developing sustainable urban communities, SMDC’s properties combine modern living with resort-style amenities, creating spaces where residents live, work, and play.

SM and Eye-Able® Pioneers Digital Accessibility in the Philippines

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SM Cares is taking a significant step towards digital inclusivity by launching Eye-Able® on the SM Supermalls website. Starting October 21, users will experience a more accessible, user-friendly interface designed to enhance browsing for individuals with visual impairments or those requiring digital assistance. This initiative underscores SM's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital world.

SM Supermalls is proud to continue its efforts to make every platform, whether physical or digital, inclusive and accessible. The launch of Eye-Able® is part of the mall's ongoing initiative to support communities through SM Cares.

Eye-Able® introduces features such as text resizing, contrast adjustments, and screen readers, all designed to help users with special needs navigate the site with ease. By integrating Eye-Able®, SM Supermalls aligns with global standards, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), enhancing digital access and promoting inclusivity across its digital platform.

Eye-Able® is built upon the idea that digital accessibility is a fundamental right, ensuring that "individuals with disabilities can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the internet.” Through this innovative digital solution, Eye-Able® envisions "An Internet for All."

By integrating Eye-Able® into its digital offerings, SM Supermalls is not only improving how individuals interact with its website but is also joining a broader movement towards making the digital world accessible to everyone. This reflects SM's commitment to inclusivity across all its platforms, aiming to ensure that every customer, regardless of ability, can enjoy a seamless and engaging online experience.

Super Grannies (Senior Citizens) using Eye-Able® feature of the website to help them see the locations using a bigger font

Eye-Able® is not only a tool for persons with disabilities (PWDs) but also benefits senior citizens and anyone who may find navigating the internet challenging. For example, “Super Grannies” (elderly users) can now easily adjust font sizes for better readability. Younger users and people with different accessibility needs will also find Eye-Able® helpful in creating a smoother and more enjoyable browsing experience.

SM Employees using Eye-Able® Color correction feature – proving that accessibility is for ALL

“When we say SM Supermalls is a mall for all, we mean it in every sense—both physical and digital. We are proud to be at the forefront of this movement, breaking down barriers and making the online world accessible to everyone” said Engr. Bien Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs and Senior Citizens. “We're proud advocates of digital accessibility as a fundamental right, ensuring that everyone can navigate and enjoy our online spaces with ease."

A customer viewing the SM website and using the Eye-Able® Read Aloud feature

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, championing programs that focus on communities and the environment. These include initiatives for Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, the Environment, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, and the SM Bike-Friendly initiative.

Experience the newly accessible SM Supermalls website beginning October 21. Visit www.smsupermalls.com to explore our commitment to creating an inclusive digital experience for everyone.

Celebrating Super Citizens during Elderly Filipino Week 2024 at SM

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As part of its Elderly Filipino Week 2024 celebrations, SM Cares, together with the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the SM Super Grannies Club, hosted a series of fun, engaging, and meaningful activities to honor the senior citizen community, held last Oct. 1, 2024, at the Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City.

During the morning activity, the attendees were treated to numerous interactive sessions, wellness programs, and exciting surprises tailored specifically for senior citizens, aimed at celebrating their invaluable contributions, fostering a sense of inclusion, and providing opportunities for them to enjoy and connect with others.

Among the highlights of the morning event were a mass at the Shrine of Jesus the Way, the Truth, and the Life; the Walk for Life parade; and a Zumba session; Filipino balladeer and 70’s Jukebox King Darius Razon also serenaded the attendees with his mesmerizing voice.

Another event aimed to support our Super Citizens was held at the SM North EDSA Skydome co-organized with Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines (FSCAP). The Talakayan Forum, which brought together senior citizens, local government representatives, and various stakeholders to address pressing concerns and share insights about senior welfare, inclusivity, and the role of the elderly in nation-building.

Designed as an open forum for important discussions that directly impact the senior citizen community, the Talakayan Forum aims to facilitate meaningful exchange, empower the elderly through dialogue, and ensure their voices are heard in community and national development.

The forum also highlighted the invaluable contributions of the elderly to community development and nation-building, while strengthening partnerships between local government units, senior citizen organizations, and the private sector in support of senior welfare.

These activities align with SM Cares' mission to promote inclusivity and provide platforms for important societal conversations, furthering its support for senior citizens as part of its Program on Persons with Disabilities, which promotes a barrier-free and disability inclusive environment for PWDs its malls.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Persons with Disabilities, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.

To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

BDO and SM elevate the shopping experience for OF families w/ Kabayan Tuesday

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Papa P at SM City Caloocan for Kabayan Tuesday. Award-winning actor and BDO Remit brand ambassador Piolo Pascual mingles with overseas Filipino families during the formal launch of Kabayan Tuesday at SM City Caloocan last June 4.

For countless overseas Filipino families, SM is more than just a mall—it's a hub for shopping, bonding, and essential errands. Recognizing this, BDO Unibank has teamed up with SM to enhance these experiences through the innovative Kabayan Tuesday initiative.

“For the last 20 years, BDO and SM have been collaborating to teach overseas Filipinos and their families about saving and financial management through lively financial literacy seminars, complete with celebrities, games, and freebies at various SM malls," said Genie T. Gloria, BDO Senior Vice President and Head of Remittance. “Starting in 2024, we wanted to make their essential shopping even more rewarding by leveraging their Kabayan Savings. With Kabayan Tuesday, their trips to SM can now be not just fulfilling but also economical.”

Kabayan Tuesday: Exclusive savings and perks

Available every first Tuesday of the month, Kabayan Tuesday is BDO’s special way of thanking overseas Filipino families for their loyalty. By presenting their Kabayan Savings ATM card, passbook, or BDO remittance payment slip at any SM branch nationwide, customers can enjoy up to a 10% discount at popular SM stores including The SM Store, SM Appliance, Watsons, Miniso, Toy Kingdom, Surplus, Baby Company, Sports Central, ACE Hardware, SM Cinema, SM Game Park, SM Bowling, and SM Skating.

This exciting promo, which began on January 2, was officially celebrated on June 4 at the newly opened SM City Caloocan with a vibrant Kabayan Tuesday Mall Show featuring BDO Remit brand ambassador Piolo Pascual.

SM City Caloocan opened its doors to the public on May 17, offering a fresh destination for families. “With the opening of SM Caloocan, we saw an opportunity to hold our Kabayan Tuesday event here, knowing it’s a favored spot for overseas Filipinos and their families,” said Gloria.

The collaboration with SM has significantly boosted the number of Kabayan Savings account holders, and there's more to come. “We are continually adding more partners to provide discounts,” Gloria added.

More than just shopping discounts

Jonjon San Agustin, Senior Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls, emphasized the broader benefits. “Kabayan Tuesday is just one of the many rewarding experiences at SM. Customers can also take advantage of other promotions and additional discounts across departments.”

Even those without a Kabayan Savings account can enjoy Kabayan Tuesday discounts through Cash Pick-up of remittances at BDO Remit counters inside SM Stores, SM Supermarket, and Save More. “Claim your remittance, present the slip at the cashier, and enjoy the discounts,” explained Gloria.

Building a secure financial future

Gloria also highlighted the long-term benefits of having a Kabayan Savings account. “Regular use of a Kabayan account for remittances builds a solid banking record, which is beneficial for future loan or credit card applications. A good relationship with a formal financial institution like BDO is invaluable.”

Bank savings are also safer, being regulated by the Bangko Sentral and insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. “Saving in banks means overseas Filipinos’ hard-earned money is more secure,” Gloria stressed. “That’s why they trust banks more.”

With Kabayan Tuesday, BDO and SM are not just offering discounts—they’re providing overseas Filipino families with more value, security, and a reason to celebrate each month.

Pop Into the Holiday Spirit with SM B-Pop Bears of Joy

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The SM Bears of Joy charity project aims to encourage generosity and spread holiday cheer to children in need this Christmas.

SM Cares, together with SM Supermalls and Toy Kingdom, returns with their annual Christmas charity project, the SM Bears of Joy.

This year, SM debuts their very first B-POP (short for Bear Pop) group, the Bear Pop Squad. This new group of idols captures the hearts of fans with the relatable stories they share, mirroring their fans’ daily experiences.

The Bear Pop Squad aims to inspire the same sense of community displayed by pop fandoms as mallgoers join in sharing a bear to a child in need for every purchase

Meet BIN, the group’s groovy dancer, who also enjoys nature hikes with his friends and volunteering at coastal clean-ups in his spare time

EYA’s strong personality comes out in her rap verses, but deep down, she’s an angel who loves to bike, enjoys payday sales, and has a heart for dogs (even if she’s allergic to them)

The squad’s maknae, ACE, is a vocal powerhouse, who makes friends with people both in and out the industry, and loves to volunteer at children’s hospitals

RINA is the group’s beloved leader, always ready to lend a hand to help those in need and a Grandma’s girl who always takes on the household chores

This collection features four brand-new designs that draw inspiration from the K-POP and P-POP community, and highlights the unity and togetherness in fan culture when it comes to celebrating shared interests.

SM’s Bear Pop Squad hopes to encourage customers and mallgoers to celebrate both the love of friendship and community as displayed by pop fandoms, and share that with children in need this Christmas season.

Buy one bear and donate another for only 250 pesos! The Bear Pop Squad will be available starting November 15 until December 25, 2023 in select SM Supermalls and Toy Kingdom branches, and can also be purchased through SM Online and Toy Kingdom Online Stores.

SM Cares Advocates for Creating Safe Spaces for Breastfeeding with Free to Feed Photo Campaign

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In celebration of National Breastfeeding Month this August, SM Cares continues to promote breastfeeding awareness by mounting the “Free to Feed: Championing Safe Spaces for Breastfeeding at SM” photo contest and exhibit.

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The SM Cares Free to Feed photo contest invites photo enthusiasts and mothers to capture their breastfeeding moment anywhere within SM Supermalls.

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The Free to Feed photo contest is open to all photo enthusiasts. Interested participants are invited to submit original photos featuring breastfeeding mothers in any area within any SM mall, such as the food court, car park, tenant areas and more, but most especially the designated breastfeeding station, until August 21, 2023. Winning entries will be announced on August 28 at SM City North EDSA, and will be awarded as much as Php 30,000 in prizes. Participants may send their entries through this link: www.bit.ly/FreeToFeedAtSM

80 SM malls nationwide provide a breastfeeding station as a safe space for mothers to continue nourishing their child.

A photo exhibit roadshow and forum will be held throughout August to serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journey. Visitors can view the Free to Feed exhibit during the following schedules at these participating SM malls: August 10-20 at SM City Davao, August 15-21 at SM City Pampanga, August 16-20 at SM City Dasmariñas, August 19-24 at SM City Iloilo, and August 28 to September 2 at SM City North EDSA.

As the World Health Organization focuses on promoting breastfeeding in the workplace, SM Supermalls provides accessible and safe spaces for nursing mothers through 80 breastfeeding stations available for customers and employees across SM malls nationwide.

SM Mall Nurses conduct sensitivity training sessions for frontliners to help create a welcoming environment for breastfeeding mothers.

“We came up with this photo competition and exhibit because we believe in the importance of advocating breastfeeding awareness among Filipinos and encouraging safe and welcoming spaces for mothers,” said SM Cares Committee on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers Program Director Atty. Pearl Jayagan Turley. “SM malls are a prime example of such a place where mothers are free to breastfeed anywhere, while also having breastfeeding stations that are fully equipped with anything moms might need to nourish their babies.”

For more information, please visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or follow SM Cares on www.facebook.com/OfficialSMCares

Pocketful of Sunshine: Inspiration through flight, photography

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SM Cares recently helped bring smiles to 31 pediatric patients afflicted with cancer and other chronic illnesses by supporting the Angeles City Flying Club's (ACFC) event "Pocketful of Sunshine," which treated the patients to a whole day of fun activities. The event was held last March 19 at the Angeles City Flying Club's base, Woodland Airpark, in Magalang, Pampanga.

"Pocketful of Sunshine" was led by the Angeles City Flying Club, a non-profit flying club and school established in 1993 that aims to promote recreational ultralight aviation among Filipinos. It was supported by SM Cares, with participation from photography advocacy group FOTOKLASE, Fujifilm Philippines' volunteer photographers, and UP Aviation Society, among others organizations.

All of the participants were from the Kythe Foundation, a non-profit whose goal is to improve the quality of life for hospitalized children with cancer and other chronic illnesses. Activities included ultralight and Cessna plane flying together with trained pilots, treasure hunting, kite flying, arts and crafts, and a candy drop on the runway.

In previous years, the ACFC together with the late Adphoto, Inc. founder and ACFC member John Chua held similar projects to share their love for aviation with children who are disadvantaged. A professional photographer himself, Chua also began his advocacy Photography with a Difference in 2010 with SM Cares as a partner, as a way to inspire people with disabilities through photography. Chua’s advocacy aligns with SM Cares’ advocacy of uplifting the lives of persons with disabilities, and after every successful program, a Photography with a Difference exhibit happens in a nearby SM mall.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Aside from the company's Program on Children and Youth, its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, PWDs, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.

To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

Kick off the New Year right! Support the Hapag Movement and fight hunger with Globe and SMAC

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As we enter the new year, it's once again time for resolutions and a fresh start. If you're looking to make a positive impact on society, consider supporting the Hapag Movement with Globe and SMAC (SM Advantage Card).

The Hapag Movement is a technology-driven program against involuntary hunger, initiated by Globe to help Filipinos severely affected by the pandemic. It leverages technology and collaboration to help 100,000 families experiencing involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood assistance.

And now, it's easier than ever to support the Hapag Movement. Globe and SMAC have joined forces to help put meals on the table of those who continuously experience involuntary hunger, which the Social Weather Stations (SWS) estimates to be about 15 million individuals.

By participating in this partnership, P50 will be donated to the Hapag Movement and other SM Foundation programs every time you purchase a new SMAC.

You'll also earn up to 1,000 extra SMAC points when you shop at select stores, including the SM Store, SM Beauty, SM Appliance, Kultura, Surplus, Our Home, Baby Company, Crate and Barrel, Levi's, The Body Shop, Forever21, Ecco, and Miniso. Half of those extra points will be donated to the Hapag Movement until January 15, 2023.

This partnership between Globe and SMAC is a groundbreaking way for shoppers to give back and make a difference in the lives of vulnerable Filipinos. By participating in this program, you also help bring them hope in the new year.

“As we kick off the new year, it's important to remember that there are still many people in our communities who are facing the challenges of hunger. This can be a difficult and overwhelming time but we can work together towards creating a more compassionate and supportive community for all,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.

“Let us start the New Year by doing good. You can do this while doing your New Year shopping at SM and partner brands using your SMAC (SM Advantage Card). You get to tick-off your shopping list, earn extra points, and lend a hand at the same time. It’s a win-win for all as we welcome 2023 with kindness and love,” said Jay Beltran, SMAC SAVP Head of Sales and Marketing.

So if you're looking to start 2023 off on the right foot, consider supporting the Hapag Movement through your SMAC purchases.

To learn more about the Hapag Movement and the partnership between Globe and SMAC, visit the official Hapag Movement page or https://smac.ph/ or download the SMAC app.

Get the shopping spree of your dreams! PLDT Home Rewards gives away five P100K shopping sprees at SM!

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The year may be almost over but there’s still plenty of time for those fresh starts and simple upgrades. From small pieces that spark joy to major furnishings that you’ve longed to have, it’s easy to find inspiration online to refresh your home, your wardrobe, and even your lifestyle, especially if you have a fast and reliable broadband connection from PLDT Home. It’s even easier to achieve these goals with the return of the PLDT Home Rewards Grand Giveaway promo.

This October, PLDT Home Rewards is giving away five (5) P100,000 SM Gift Cards to lucky members. All you have to do is register your PLDT Home account to the PLDT Home Rewards program and make the most out of your dream shopping list with these five tips.

1. Have fun with your furnishings.

Do your furniture and home accessories still spark joy?

Furnishings are the backdrop of our lives, not just pieces to sleep or sit on. Soft furnishings such as curtains, linens, and throws are not just there to make our lives comfortable; they also complete our home and highlight our style.

From color blocks or patterns to mix and match, fabric upholstery or leather, wood or plastic, single or king size, the SM Store’s Home Department has a wide variety of home furnishings that suit different budgets and styles.

Tip: When buying furniture pieces like a sofa, make sure you measure your space and get the scale right. To visualize it, put masking tape on the floor to outline the space where the piece will go and measure it. This way, you won’t need to ask yourself when you’re in the store, “Is this going to fit?”

2. Update your wardrobe.

As pandemic restrictions ease, most people are back at the office and are socializing too, so now just might be the best time to update your wardrobe with SM’s Women’s Fashion. Choose clothes that go from day to night as you go from boardroom meetings to bar hopping with friends.

Tip: For women, a solid-color tailored blazer shows you mean business at work even if you have a soft or printed fabric blouse inside. Remove the jacket and you’re ready to go partying in the Metro. For men, time to add some color into your lives whether it’s baby pink or light lavender. Pair it with jeans, leather shoes and a smart jacket, and you’re sure to turn heads.  

3. Be inspired in the kitchen.

Your personal design style extends to your kitchen, too. Should you go porcelain, stone, or clay? Crystal or glass? It depends on your budget but consider their use as well.

Don’t save the expensive wares for guests. Buy to use! Choose cookware that will inspire the inner chef in you, dinnerware that will give your meals a little more oomph, and storage to start organizing things around the house.

Tip: Always choose quality.  These are some of the most used pieces in your home, so make sure that apart from looking good, your dinnerware and flatware can withstand frequent washing and microwaving without fading or looking dull.

4. Treat the kids.

For two years, children were confined at home and couldn’t see their friends. To help them renew their social skills, throw a weekend afternoon party. Shop for toys or games they can use at Toy Kingdom. Better yet, if it’s your child’s birthday, invite their friends and the neighborhood kids to help them get reacquainted or make new connections.   

Tip: Children are easy to please. Make party favors for them to take home. It doesn’t have to be expensive. You just need to be creative.

5. Be active again!

Start your fitness journey by shopping for new exercise gear at SM’s Sports Central. From shoes to shorts, yoga pants to gym bags, you’ll find them at the SM Store. You may also check out the Electronics department for gadgets to make your active life more enjoyable—Bluetooth earphones for the gym, drones for your long runs outdoors, and watches to track your health.

Tip: One of the most common reasons people stop exercising is that they get bored with their routine. Mix it up! Find an exercise buddy, don’t stick to one sport, find different places to run or bike or play volleyball.

A FREE P100,000 shopping spree at the SM Store should help you try out new things and start that big reinvention. Find out how you can win by signing up for PLDT Home Rewards today.

 

Say goodbye to bulky coins and bills! You can now receive e-sukli at SM, powered by PayMaya

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Receiving a handful of coins and bills as change can be pretty inconvenient, especially if you need to carry them around as you go about your day. Sure, you can stuff them neatly in your wallet or coin purse, but as they pile up, there should be another solution to hold your endless barya.

And who hasn't encountered the perennial "meron po ba kayong exact amount" question when paying at the cashier?

The good news now is there is e-sukli! Digital financial services leader PayMaya and the Philippines' largest department store, The SM Store, launched this innovative solution to make receiving change more convenient for shoppers. e-sukli allows customers to receive a change of up to P50 directly to their PayMaya accounts instead of taking bulky coins and bills from the cashier.

Now available in over 60 The SM Store branches nationwide, E-sukli makes receiving change much easier and eliminates the need to find a smaller bill for your purchases. It is also a great way to accumulate funds in your PayMaya account so you can use it when paying cashless the next time you go shopping, dine at your favorite restaurant, or pay bills.

Not only is using e-sukli easy and convenient, but just like any PayMaya experience, it can also be rewarding. From April 1 to 30, 2022, those who use e-sukli in any of The SM Store branches will get an additional bonus of P5, P10, or P25 on top of their actual change. Be sure to avail yourself of this unique promo by SM and PayMaya for a hassle-free shopping experience that can help you earn a little extra for yourself!

E-sukli can be used at the checkout counter in The SM Store by simply asking the cashier to send your change via PayMaya. On your PayMaya app, tap the icon in the upper-left corner and tap the QR code beside your name. The cashier will then scan your PayMaya account QR code and transfer your change.

The e-sukli initiative with The SM Store is just among the many programs and innovations that PayMaya is rolling out to its enterprise partners to encourage more Filipinos to adopt digital payments for their everyday transactions.

PayMaya is the only end-to-end digital payments ecosystem enabler in the Philippines, with platforms and services that cut across consumers, merchants, communities, and government. As of end-December 2021, PayMaya provides more than 44 million Filipinos access to financial services through its consumer platforms. Its Smart Padala by PayMaya network of over 63,000 partner agent touchpoints serves as last-mile digital financial hubs in communities, providing the unbanked and underserved access to digital services. Through its enterprise business, it is the largest digital payments processor for key industries in the country, including "every day" merchants such as the largest retail, food, gas, and eCommerce merchants, as well as government agencies and units.

SM joins Earth Hour 2022; Lights switch-off, Virtual Run part of activity line-up

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As part of the company's sustainability efforts, SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm SM Cares, is once again joining the world in observing Earth Hour, with this year’s theme "Shape Our Future," focusing on how we can work together in halting and reversing climate change and nature loss by 2030.

Earth Hour is an annual campaign launched in 2007 by the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) that encourages the turning off of non-essential lights as part of energy conservation efforts for the planet. Since its first observance in the Philippines in 2008, SM has been joining the campaign every year, being one of the first in the private sector to support it.

This year, SM will continue to promote the campaign by being one of the official partners of WWF for the Earth Hour Virtual Run, to be held from March 26 to April 22. Aside from this, all SM malls will be joining the light switch-off on March 26 from 8:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

"SM is proud to have been supporting Earth Hour throughout the last 14 years. Every year, we partake in this very important movement because we want to inspire people to action and tell them that no matter how small their contribution is, it will go a long way if we work together," said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM’s Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Head of Sustainability.

“Through Earth Hour, we want to engage over a billion people worldwide and engage decision-makers whether in business, institutions, and governments, to move the agenda of nature up the priority list in the global sphere and in the national agenda. We want people to lend their voices as we're shaping our future, and hopefully, we'll be changing the ending for the positive – for both people and the planet,” said Atty. Angela Ibay, Climate and Energy Program Head of WWF-Philippines

Aside from joining the campaign every year, SM has been active in environmental protection in many ways. For instance, all SM malls are equipped with energy and water conservation facilities. The company also regularly joins tree planting activities, and has waste management initiatives such as Trash-to-Cash, e-waste and used acid lead batteries collection programs, and the plastic waste collection program with the Plastic Credit Exchange.

SM has also been investing more in renewable energy. Eight malls in the country and three in China are now equipped with solar panels, with more to follow in the coming months. SM also pledged to increase its use of renewable energy to 50 percent of its overall energy usage by year-end.

SM City Tuguegarao Downtown Solar Rooftop

SM's other sustainability initiatives include the annual Green Film Festival, promoting environmental awareness among students and the youth through films; the AweSMSeas project, promoting awareness on the negative impact of plastic waste on seas and oceans; and the International Coastal Cleanup joined by thousands of volunteers every year, to name a few.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, supporting initiatives that focus on communities and the environment. In addition to its programs on the environment, SM Cares’ advocacies include programs on women and breastfeeding mothers, persons with disabilities, senior citizens, children and youth, and the Bike-Friendly SM Program.

Visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares to learn more.

Shoppers and partners of The SM Store give back to communities

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Sharing the gift of learning. The SM Store’s Donate-A-Book gathered more than 130,000 books in 2021 from customers and partner organizations. The books were distributed to over 100 public schools and community organizations nationwide. 

Through the generosity of its shoppers and partners, The SM Store was able to gather more than 130,000 books and 45,000 toys through its Donate-A-Book and Share-A-Toy programs in 2021. The SM Store gave shoppers a Php 100 discount coupon for each toy or book that they donated. Along with the books and toys, The SM Store also donated backpacks and school supplies.

The community programs were implemented in partnership with SM Foundation for children in public schools, orphanages, pediatric hospitals, health centers, Christian- and Muslim-run charitable institutions, non-government institutions, and Indigenous People communities. Each of the 68 branches of The SM Store identified two or more community beneficiaries for the donation drive. A list of beneficiaries can be found at www.thesmstore.com.

“We are grateful for the overwhelming support of our shoppers for our Donate-A-Book and Share-A-Toy. Our shoppers are looking for ways to give back, especially during challenging times, and we at The SM Store are happy to share this mission with them,” said Chelo Monasterio, President of The SM Store.

She added that last years’ programs were special because aside from the generous shoppers of The SM Store, academic institutions, private companies, and non-government organizations took part in the initiative and donated books and toys for the communities.

Schools, publications, and NGOs mobilized communities to share the joy of learning

For Donate-A-Book, the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations of the Philippines (COCOPEA); Philippine Association of Private Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAPSCU); and the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) mobilized their members to donate quality books and reference materials that will help rebuild and enrich the collections of community and public school libraries.

Olivia Camatog, principal of De La Salle Zobel in Alabang, a member school of PAPSCU and COCOPEA, said the books they donated came from their library collection, some of which have multiple copies. Through this program with SM, Camatog expressed their happiness in giving a meaningful contribution toto rebuilding other schools' libraries.

Publishing companies like Learning Is Fun WS Publication, one of the business partners of The SM Store Stationery, donated reference and activity books. Trailblazing Publishing from the PAPSCU network also shared brand new K to 12 books for public schools.

Representatives from Learning is Fun WS Publication turned over its book donations to The SM Store and SM Foundation through an online event. The donated books were given to children from hospitals, health centers and charitable institutions.

The Philippine Commission on Women and the National Council of Women of the Philippines also shared books they gathered from partner NGOs. “Through the distribution network of The SM Store and their presence all over the country, we are happy to partner with them so that our book collection will reach more girls and boys in far flung communities,” said Sandy Montano, Chairwoman of the Philippine Commission on Women.

Donate-A-Book was implemented in select branches of The SM Store from August 15 to September 30, 2021. Books were donated to more than 100 public schools and community organizations.

Trade partners and private firms shared toys to make kids happy

The SM Store and the Toy Kingdom teamed up for Share-A-Toy from December 1 to 31, 2021 in all branches of The SM Store and Toy Kingdom nationwide.

HSBC Global Service Center Philippines adopted the Share-A-Toy program as part of its employee engagement activity. HSBC employees shared 4,000 new toys and educational materials.

Sharing joy through toys. The SM Store and Toy Kingdom’s Share A Toy collected around 45,000 toys in 2021. The SM Store branches nationwide are currently rolling out the distribution to the selected communities.

The SM Store is currently rolling out the distribution of donations to the selected communities. The SM Store branches already distributed a portion of the donated toysto children from remote Aeta communities in Guimaras and Antique; Jalaud Elementary School in Iloilo; Bahay ni San Jose orphanage; Benguet General Hospital and Medical Center; Philippine General Hospital; Mary the Queen Parish in Quezon City; and San Mateo Elementary School and Guitnang Bayan Elementary School in Rizal.

This year, The SM Store started its donation drive with Share Your Extras to benefit communities impacted by Typhoon Odette. SM shoppers were encouraged to donate old and new clothes. Collections from Metro Manila and Luzon branches will be distributed to typhoon-hit areas in the Visayas and Mindanao. Share Your Extras will run from January 15 to February 15, 2021, for Metro Manila branches and February 1 to February 28 for north and south Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao branches. For every donation, shoppers will receive a Php 100 discount voucher valid for their next purchase.

Sharing clothes for Odette-hit communities. Share Your Extras is currently accepting clothing donations in participating The SM Store branches nationwide until February 28.