The Power of Purpose: Filipina Entrepreneurs Redefine Resilience at SM Lanang

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

In a vibrant explosion of color, culture, and community, the WomenBizPH Trade Fair recently transformed SM Lanang Premier into a powerhouse of female-led innovation. Held from March 12-14, this three-day "Women Strong Network" event was more than a marketplace—it was a definitive statement on the rising impact of Filipina micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Organized by WomenBizPH in a strategic alliance with SM Supermalls, the fair brought together a diverse league of entrepreneurs who are proving that passion, when fused with purpose, can rewrite the economic landscape of the Philippines. 

A Tapestry of Talent and Tradition

The mall’s halls were lined with a rich array of local mastery, offering everything from handcrafted accessories and woven apparel to artisanal pastries and wellness products. Each booth represented a bridge between traditional Filipino heritage and modern commercial viability.

Sassy’s Creation Enterprise: This brand defines "sustainable and timeless," utilizing heritage weaving techniques and upcycled fabrics to create fashion staples for "EveryBODY". Their impact goes beyond style; the brand partners with home-based mothers and women from the BJMP in Antipolo, providing vital livelihood opportunities.

Magpoc’s Pastry Products: Carrying a legacy from Bataan that dates back to 1960, third-generation leader Cynthia M. Eusebio is evolving the brand for the digital age. For her, "Magpoc’s isn’t just a label—it’s a legacy of providing for our community".

From Survival to Strength

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the fair was the raw, human stories of survival that fueled these businesses.

"I started small... 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." — Cuevas Planas, Founder of Kirby’s Chicharon.

Similarly, Flaviano’s Health Food Products from Laguna demonstrated the spirit of innovation, refusing to stall even during the global pandemic. These entrepreneurs have turned individual challenges into collective opportunities, building brands that uplift entire communities.

A Launchpad for the Future

For SM Supermalls, this initiative is part of a much larger mission. With 89 malls nationwide, SM is leveraging its massive retail footprint to act as a permanent launchpad for homegrown talent.

Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls, emphasizes this vision: "We see MSMEs not just as exhibitors but as future brands in the making... we help nurture the next generation of Filipino brands".

Connect with the Movement

Support these inspiring women by exploring their journeys online:

Sassy’s Creation Enterprise: @sassyscreationph (Instagram) 

Magpoc’s Pastry: MagpocsAraroCookies (Facebook) 

Kirby’s Chicharon: kirbyschicharonph (Facebook) 

Flaviano’s Food: Flavianos Food (Facebook) 

As this Women's Month celebration concludes, the message remains clear: when Filipina entrepreneurs rise, they don’t just grow businesses—they empower the nation.

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