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.

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.

Join Great vivo Scavenger Hunt at SM malls for chance to win V30 Series

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April is gearing up to be an exhilarating month with vivo hosting an exciting scavenger hunt for everyone! Similar to traditional Easter egg hunts, vivo is adding a twist of fun and excitement to your April plans.

Following the successful launch of the vivo V30 Series, the brand is kicking off the Great vivo Scavenger Hunt starting April 1. This interactive activity will take place both physically at selected SM malls in Metro Manila and online, inviting all vivo enthusiasts to participate for a chance to win fantastic prizes.

Collaborating with various SM malls, vivo will hide special V tokens for participants to discover. Keep a close watch on vivo's social media platforms throughout April for weekly announcements unveiling the specific mall locations where these V tokens will be hidden.

The hunt officially begins with vivo's social media posts every Wednesday in April, leading to the thrilling hunting activities scheduled for April 6, 13, 20, and 27 (Saturdays). Winners will be announced on April 8, 15, 22, and 29 across Facebook, Instagram, and X platforms.

Once you've found a V token, head to designated vivo stores within partner malls to redeem your prize. Prizes range from trendy keychains and premium earbuds to stylish tumblers, with the coveted vivo V30 Series as the grand prize.

The Great vivo Scavenger Hunt promises a month-long adventure filled with excitement. Don't forget to mark your calendars and stay tuned for updates!

To ensure you don't miss any updates, turn on your notifications and follow vivo's official Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok pages. Visit vivo's official website to learn more about the thrilling V30 Series and join us for an unforgettable adventure to kickstart your summer!

Let’s Talk About Hair: The Professional Way

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They say, “Our hair is our Crowning Glory”. It is one of the keys to boosting our confidence and most times, we use our hair as a tool to express ourselves. Curly or straight, thick or thin, or whatever colors our hair may be, we should be able to own it because it is a part of who we are. Owning our hair is one of the most significant steps to loving ourselves more; it gives us the courage and confidence that with whatever type of hair is given to us, we are ever more beautiful with it.

Hairfix recently launched its newest Hairfix Professional Line, along with the Meet and Greet of Hairfix’s Brand Ambassadress, Kim Chiu. 

The event was held at Watsons, SM North Edsa - The Grand last September 28, 2023, and was hosted by Ms. Tracy Manlangit. Moreover, other than the presence of the Chinita Princess, it was also graced by several personalities such as mom influencer Kris Lumagui, dermatologist Dra. Bea Chan, and Tiktok influencer Dior Veneracion.

The newest Hairfix Professional Line includes three lines to choose from. Formulated with Keratin Booster Complex and Curl Booster Complex, this new 4-in-1 PRO Line is the hair care solution professionally done to wrap your tresses with the optimum care for every kind of hair, making all the more worth trying. First, the Collagen + Peptide and Castor Oil with Keratin (Volumizing and Detoxifying) is all about promoting thicker, longer, and stronger hair. Collagen supplements have been shown to increase the body’s hair-building proteins and are very effective in the treatment of dry, brittle hair. The Protein + Vitamin C and Castor Oil with Keratin (Straightening and Restoring) gently repair structural damage and even smoothen the roughened cuticle layer of damaged ends. Moreover, Protein-rich hair care transforms limp and lifeless hair into luscious locks with increased resistance to frizz and split ends. Both encompass a Shampoo, Conditioner, Treatment, and a Leave-On Hair Spray, which is the complete care set for you! Lastly, with Curl Booster Complex, Power Curls (Defining Curls) is enriched with Hibiscus, Shea Butter, and Amino Acid. It defines the natural curls of your hair that add shine, bounciness, and moisture to your hair after every use, making your curls long-lasting and nurtured. This curl-loving line comes with a Defining Lotion best used with the Power Curls Shampoo and Conditioner.

Mom influencer Kris Lumagui shared her experience when she used the Collagen + Peptide set. She said that having not-so-thick hair has become challenging especially when styling her hair, but the ingredients of the Collagen set helped her hair a lot, appearing thicker and healthier.

Additionally, it added volume and bounce, making it less dull. Meanwhile, well-known dermatologist Dra. Bea Chan explained the benefits of the ingredients Collagen, Protein, Vitamin C, Peptide, and Castor Oil. Incorporating these ingredients into your hair care routine not only makes your hair thicker or straighter but also nourishes, hydrates, repairs, and protects your scalp from structural damage. She also said that using the treatment twice a month is recommended. Keratin makes up 85% of a normal hair strand, but with damage, it decreases the Keratin in our hair and that’s where Hydrolyzed Keratin of the Professional Line comes in; it restores the lost Keratin in our hair to bring back its natural, stronger state with no frizz. On to the curls, Tiktok sensation Dior Veneracion, who has curls that almost everyone loves to have, discusses the do’s and don'ts when having natural curls. His curly hair routine was also shared by Dior, stating that paraben-free products are best used for curly hair. He immediately loved the Power Curl Defining Lotion as it makes his curls more intact, bouncier, and shinier.

After the launch event, Kim and the Hairfix team proceeded to Dylan Cafe for the press conference but before that, Kim did the P1,000 Pesos Watsons Challenge. She went and got her favorite product such as Hairfix Ash Brown Permanent Hair Color Cream, and decided to hoard the newest Professionals Power Curls Leave-On Hair Lotion and the Collagen + Peptide Shampoo, Conditioner, and Leave-On Spray. It became more exciting when the raffle winners were announced and the three grand winners would take home either an Acrylic Organizer, a Hair Blower, or, for the 1st Grand Prize, a House of Little Bunny bag! All the winners enjoyed a 2024 Planners and a Hairfix Jelly Tote Bag.

The Hairfix Professional Line Shampoo and Conditioner retail at P199 (for Collagen and Protein set) and P179 (for Power Curl set), Treatments are priced at P249 (Buy 1 Take 1), Leave-On Hair Sprays are at P129, and the Defining Lotion retails at P109. All are exclusively available at Watsons and SM Department stores nationwide. For more information about the Hairfix Professional Line, follow HairfixPH on Instagram & Twitter and like Lifestrong Hairfix PH’s page on Facebook. You can also visit their website at hairfix.com.ph and lifestrong.com.ph.

SM Prime helps address water scarcity in PH through water recycling in SM malls

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Water scarcity is one of the biggest issues that the world is facing today. Defined as a problem that occurs when the demand for water exceeds the available water supply, water scarcity is seen as a problem that will only get worse, especially since water use continues to increase at an unprecedented rate globally.

According to 2019 figures from UN-Water, an interagency mechanism that coordinates the efforts of United Nations (UN) entities and international organizations working on water and sanitation issues, global water demand is expected to continue increasing by 1 percent annually until 2050.

As a company with sustainability at the core of its operations, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) knows that there is a need for solutions that help address the degradation and depletion of the world's natural resources. In line with this, the company has been continuously working towards strengthening its commitment to a circular economy, implementing solutions that help improve efficiency when using natural resources, including water.

“We all know that fresh water is a finite resource, so it is important that we try our best to conserve it. This is why SM has been adhering to a circular framework when it comes to our resource consumption, including the way we use water in our malls,” said Engr. Liza B. Silerio, Vice President for SM Supermalls Corporate Compliance Group and SM Cares Program Director for Environment.

To improve water efficiency in its mall operations, SM employs facilities that help reduce its consumption of fresh water. Among these are sewage treatment plants that treat wastewater plumbing systems. This allows the water to be reused, helping ensure that there is enough water for the malls and the communities nearby.

All wastewater from tenants and mall restrooms are treated in the sewage treatment plants to become non-potable water. The recycled water is then used for air conditioning operations, specifically by cooling towers, as well as for flushing toilets and watering of gardens.

In 2021, SM was able to save a total of 8.7 million cubic meters of water—enough to fill 3,480 Olympic-sized swimming pools—with the help of these facilities, which are present in 72 SM malls nationwide and have been in operation since the early 2000s.

"Aside from minimizing our impact on common water resources, recycling water through these sewage treatment plants allows our malls to save big on water costs," Engr. Silerio said. "Now, imagine if we all did it. I think we can leave a significant positive impact on our country's source of fresh water."

SM Prime is committed to supporting the United Nations in achieving its Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), including “SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation” which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

Other initiatives of SM aimed toward this include the Trash-to-Cash Market and Plastic Waste Collection initiative, both promoting responsible disposal of plastic waste so they don't end up in seas and oceans; the AweSMSeas campaign in partnership with the USAID and PRRCI, which raises awareness of the importance of managing plastic pollution affecting the world's waters; and the International Coastal Cleanup that gathers thousands of volunteers annually.

Visit www.smprime.com/sustainability-overview to learn more about the sustainability programs of SM Prime Holdings.

HONOR continues to expand its presence in SM Malls!

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The comeback is real! HONOR Fans can finally purchase their favorite HONOR gadgets in select SM malls, HONOR online store, Lazada’s Biggest 11.11 Sale, and Shopee Mega Pamasko 11.11 Sale

HONOR has recently announced that starting November 15, HONOR fans can already experience its latest products up close as it officially opens its new kiosks in select SM malls in the country.

After its HONOR 70 5G, HONOR Pad 8, and HONOR X6 Grand Launch last October and its first exhibit kiosk in SM Megamall last Oct. 28 to Nov. 2, the leading global provider of smart devices, is now ready to serve more customers who have been waiting for the latest products to arrive in the stores near them.

HONOR will now be finally present at SM Rosales, Pampanga; SM Baliuag, Bulacan; SM Center Dagupan, Pangasinan; and, SM Butuan, Agusan del Norte.

“Since we started reestablishing the brand again last September, we are very happy to share that we’ve already reached 80% of our target in opening stores nationwide for Q4.  This expansion will continue in 2023 as we also grow the brand and business,” Stephen Cheng, VP of HONOR Philippines, said.

In the next coming months, HONOR will be visible to more SM stores in Metro Manila, other parts of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Purchase HONOR via Online Stores

Don’t miss the chance because HONOR has great deals and offers this 11.11 Mega Sale of Shopee and Lazada. Avid HONOR fans can purchase the #BestVloggingPhone HONOR 70 5G, HONOR Magic4 Pro, HONOR X6, HONOR X7, HONOR X8, and HONOR X9 through HONOR’s physical stores, Lazada, and Shopee apps.

HONOR fans can snag selected products at its retail price and get exclusive deals such as free shipping, free shop voucher, flash sale, and JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth speaker worth PHP 6,999 for FREE during Lazada’s Biggest Sale and Shopee’s Mega Pamasko Sale!

  

XTREME Appliances opens its first SM Concept Store branch in Camarines Norte

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Camarines Norte, Philippines - Just in time for the upcoming Holiday season, one of the leading local appliance brands, XTREME Appliances, opened its first-ever concept store inside SM Malls yesterday, September 30, 2022.

(From left to right: Retail Head Meng Melgar, Councilor Eliza Huergula Llovit, President Adrian Lim, Councilor Jose Angelo Corretes, VP for Business Development Marky Del Mundo, Brand Marketing Manager Paula Dizon, and SM DAET Representatives)

The Grand Opening was led by XTREME Appliances' President Mr. Adrian Lim, Vice President for Business Development Mr. Mark Del Mundo, Retail Head Mr. Romeo Melgar, and Brand Marketing Manager Ms. Paula Katrina Dizon, together with Daet Municipal Councilor Eliza Llovit and Councilor Jose Angelo Corretes, and with the regional media in attendance. They were also joined by SM Daet Assistant Mall Manager Ms. Rachel Odda with the Leasing Manager Grace Dynne Isidro,

The newest concept store, located on the 2nd level of SM Daet, will serve customers in the whole province of Camarines Norte, especially in the nearby municipalities of San Vicente, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Vinzons, Talisay, Basud, and Mercedes. It will carry the brand's full line-up of products from entertainment, cooling, and home-kitchen appliances.

"Every Filipino deserves a trusted appliance brand that is worth every peso. That's why we at XTREME Appliances continuously expand in different parts of the country to make our products accessible to more Filipinos", shares Mr. Lim. "We are very happy and excited with our partnership with SM, this only marks the start, we will open more concept stores in different SM Mall branches in the coming months", he added.

What to expect

To celebrate the Grand Opening, XTREME Appliances offers exciting deals to Bicolanos. Starting September 30 until October 7, buyers of any participating products will get up to P8,700 worth of appliances as a freebie, plus a discount on selected items awaits.

MODEL NAME	SRP	GET FREEBIES (UP TO):
32-inch XTREME LED TV	₱8,995.00	₱5,985
40-inch XTREME LED TV	₱10,495.00	₱6,735
32-inch XTREME ANDROID TV	₱13,995.00	₱8,790
65W XTREME XBlast Portable Speaker	₱11,595.00	₱7,095
65W XTREME Portable Speaker	₱8,995.00	₱4,940
0.5HP XTREME COOL Window Type Aircon Manual	₱9,245.00	₱5,290
1.0HP XTREME COOL Window Type Aircon Manual	₱13,495.00	₱2,000

MODEL NAME	SRP	SAVINGS	SALE PRICE
16" XTREME HOME Stand Fan (Blue)	₱365.00	₱66.00	₱299.00
XTREME HOME Single Burner Gas Stove	₱1,295.00	₱296.00	₱999.00
TREME HOME Dry Iron (Violet)	₱895.00	₱300.00	₱595.00

“We received a warm welcome from our fellow Bicolanos during our soft opening, that’s why we’d like to extend this exclusive deal as our way of saying thank you. Imagine buying only one (1) product but you will go home with an additional of at least two (2) to four (4) more appliances”, shares Ms. Dizon.

XTREME Appliance owners and fans are encouraged to join the XTREME Appliances community page where members get to know more about the brand, interact with other members, and receive exclusive promos/discounts. Users can share their experiences and tips.

As of September 2022, XTREME Appliances has over sixty concept stores nationwide.

 

About XTREME Appliances

XTREME Appliances is a #OneStopShopAppliances brand that offers premium and affordable home and light commercial appliances like TV, Air Conditioner, Refrigerator, Washing Machine, Gas Range, and many more.

To know more about XTREME Appliances please like and follow XTREME Appliances Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.

SM Cares and DENR-NCR celebrate World Oceans Day with special plastic waste collection program

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Participants get a free seedling from the Community PanTREE

In observance of World Oceans Day, SM Cares held a special version of its Plastic Waste Collection Program in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) to underscore the importance of adopting sustainable habits such as reducing plastic consumption and planting trees.

Conducted simultaneously in the following SM malls: Megamall, Mall of Asia, North EDSA, Fairview, Southmall, East Ortigas, Marikina, and Marilao, the activity supported DENR-NCR's Community PanTREE, a program that was launched in 2021 with the aim of providing free fruit-bearing seedlings to encourage urban and backyard gardening.

Participants who brought at least 1 kg of plastic waste each got a free seedling from the Community PanTREE. More than 700 kg of plastic was collected through the activity, and has distributed 700 pcs of seedlings across the 8 collection venues.

“The goal of this activity is to help divert plastic waste from ending up in landfills and bodies of water while also giving the participants the opportunity to grow their own trees,” said Director of SM Cares' Program on Environment Engr. Liza Silerio.

SM’s Plastic Waste Collection program has gathered over 16,000 kg of plastic for re-processing since it began in 2021. Currently available in 12 SM malls, it is just one of SM Cares' numerous sustainability projects. The pioneering Trash to Cash recycling market and the E-Waste Collection Programs round up the initiatives on solid waste management. Other projects include the annual Green Film Festival, which promotes environmental awareness; the AweSMSeas project in partnership with the USAID and PRRCI, which promotes responsible plastic waste management; and the International Coastal Cleanup that gathers thousands of volunteers every year, among others.

Through these efforts, SM Cares supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly "SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation," "SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities," "SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production," "SDG 13: Climate Action," "SDG 14: Life Below Water," and "SDG 15: Life on Land."

To learn more, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.