SM Viyline MSME Caravan: Empowering Local Businesses at SM City Baguio

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The second leg of the much-anticipated Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan is set to captivate shoppers and entrepreneurs at SM City Baguio from February 19-25, 2025. Building on the success of its first leg at SM City Bataan, this initiative, spearheaded by Viyline in collaboration with SM Supermalls, aims to uplift local businesses, celebrate community engagement, and provide an exciting marketplace for Filipino MSMEs.

A Grand Celebration of Local Talent and Entrepreneurship

Shoppers and visitors to SM City Baguio can expect a vibrant showcase of handcrafted products, must-try delicacies, and innovative business ventures that highlight the creativity and resilience of Filipino entrepreneurs. The Viyline MSME Caravan goes beyond being just a bazaar—it is a movement for economic empowerment, strengthening the local MSME ecosystem through collaboration and exposure to a wider market.

A key attraction of the event will be the presence of Viy Cortez, a renowned influencer and entrepreneur, best known as the wife of popular YouTuber CONG TV. With her massive online following, Viy Cortez’s participation in the opening ceremony will undoubtedly add star power and excitement to the event, drawing in more visitors and lending greater visibility to the participating MSMEs.

Delicious Finds and Unique Offerings

One of the biggest highlights of the Viyline MSME Caravan is its diverse selection of products, including delicious local food items such as the much-talked-about bottled Pork Sisig Barbecue, alongside a wide variety of other handcrafted goods and innovative offerings from emerging entrepreneurs. This unique shopping experience encourages attendees to support local brands, helping small businesses flourish in a competitive retail landscape.

SM Supermalls: A Champion for MSME Growth

SM Supermalls continues to prove its commitment to supporting MSMEs by offering prime retail spaces and high-impact promotional opportunities. As the country’s largest MSME hub, SM provides end-to-end business support—from incubation to national expansion—ensuring that local entrepreneurs have the resources and platform they need to thrive.

With over 80 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls remains a key player in driving MSME success, reinforcing the importance of sustainability and innovation in today’s business landscape. The Viyline MSME Caravan is a testament to SM’s dedication to fostering a thriving community of Filipino entrepreneurs.

The Caravan’s Next Destination

After the SM City Baguio leg, the Viyline MSME Caravan will continue its journey, heading to SM City Dasmariñas from March 19-30, 2025. With each stop, the caravan strengthens its mission of empowering MSMEs, boosting local economies, and fostering a deeper connection between businesses and consumers.

Join the Movement!

Don’t miss this exciting week-long MSME celebration at SM City Baguio! Mark your calendars from February 19-25, 2025, and be part of this dynamic showcase of local entrepreneurship. Whether you’re a shopper, a business owner, or an advocate for local industries, the Viyline MSME Caravan promises an engaging and rewarding experience for all.

For more details, visit www.smsupermalls.com and stay updated on upcoming events that champion Filipino businesses and homegrown talent!

Discover the Newest Trends, Flavors, and Experiences at SM Supermalls – The #HomeOfFirsts!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

SM Supermalls continues to redefine shopping, dining, and lifestyle experiences by bringing in the latest must-visit destinations, trendsetting brands, and exciting food stops across its malls nationwide. Whether you’re a foodie, a fashion enthusiast, a collector, or someone looking for fun-filled family activities, there’s always something new waiting for you at the #HomeOfFirsts!

Flavors to Savor: Fresh Culinary Delights

SM North EDSA

Satisfy your cravings with a variety of new dining destinations. Tonkotsu Kazan serves rich, umami-packed ramen, while Bebang Halo-Halo offers a refreshing twist on the classic Filipino dessert. Meat lovers can enjoy the Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu experience, featuring crispy, tender beef cutlets. If you’re a bubble tea fan, Milksha has launched its first-ever store in the Philippines, serving premium milk teas crafted from high-quality ingredients​

SM Megamall

A delightful new experience awaits at Warabimochi Kamakura, the first of its kind in the country, bringing the authentic taste of Japanese warabimochi. Meanwhile, Cooper’s Coffee is set to serve ethically sourced coffee alongside delectable pastries, sandwiches, and cakes​

SM Mall of Asia

Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza at Rossopomodoro, a brand renowned for its creamy mozzarella, sweet San Marzano tomatoes, and perfectly charred crust. This marks its first-ever branch in the Philippines, staying true to Italian tradition​

SM Seaside City Cebu

Get ready for bold flavors with Hey! Wok, offering wok-fried Asian favorites bursting with aromatic spices. Boy Belly is also making waves with its barkada set meals, perfect for group dining​

SM City Dasmariñas

Cavite’s food scene just got even better! Indulge in Louisiana-style fried chicken from Popeye’s, fiery Chinese hotpot from X Malatang, and Singapore’s #1 ice cream brand, Udders. Sweet lovers can grab exclusive deals from Cinnabon, while Yi Fang Taiwan Fruit Tea celebrates the Year of the Snake with special discounts​

SM City Fairview

Craving something savory or sweet? BBQ Chicken serves Korean-style fried chicken, Popper’s Pop! offers gourmet popcorn perfect for movie nights, and Leo Pizza crafts delicious, freshly baked pizzas​

Trendsetting Styles & Lifestyle Must-Haves

SM Mall of Asia

High fashion meets artistic expression at Maison Margiela, bringing avant-garde designs and refined luxury to Manila for the first time​

SM CDO Downtown

Tech enthusiasts will love the new HONOR store at Cyberzone, featuring cutting-edge smartphones, sleek wearables, and innovative tech solutions​

SM J Mall

For those prioritizing wellness and self-care, Healthy Options now offers a range of organic and all-natural products, while Beauty Sessions provides expert grooming and beauty services​

SM City Dasmariñas

The iconic Danish brand Flying Tiger has arrived, offering a quirky and creative selection of home essentials, stationery, and accessories​

SM Podium

Men’s grooming gets an upgrade with Felipe and Sons, a luxurious barbering destination that combines style with indulgence​

Collector’s Paradise: Exclusive Finds & Pop Culture Hubs

SM North EDSA

Anime and K-pop fans can now visit Gashapon Bandai, featuring capsule toy machines filled with beloved characters, and Co. The Collectible Store, offering rare Funko Pop! figures, K-pop albums, and anime memorabilia​

SM Mall of Asia

SEVENTEEN fans, don’t miss the Artist-Made Collection Pop-Up, available from January 15 to February 26, 2025, with limited stocks of exclusive merchandise​

Epic Fun & Unforgettable Memories

SM City Dasmariñas

The Photo Objet experience has arrived in Cavite, providing aesthetic photo booths, themed backdrops, and instant print souvenirs​

SM North EDSA

Families can dive into the Underwater Adventure, an ocean-themed playground with vibrant sea creatures and murals. Get discounted passes via the SM Malls Online app​

SM City Fairview

Get ready for an entertainment-packed season, as new attractions and stores are set to open soon​

Why SM Supermalls is the #HomeOfFirsts

SM Supermalls continues to elevate the shopping and lifestyle experience, introducing first-to-market brands, groundbreaking retail concepts, and world-class dining options. With a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement, SM ensures that every visit is not just about shopping but about creating meaningful and memorable moments for individuals, families, and communities alike​

Stay updated on the latest happenings, exclusive deals, and must-visit spots by following @smsupermalls on social media or visiting www.smsupermalls.com.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your visit today and be among the first to experience everything that’s fresh, exciting, and unforgettable at SM Supermalls—the #HomeOfFirsts

Sara Duterte’s Evolving Stance on the EDSA People Power Revolution: A Tale of Contradictions?

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The political landscape of the Philippines has always been shaped by its leaders’ views on historical events, and one of the most defining moments in the country’s history is the EDSA People Power Revolution of 1986. This event, which led to the ousting of dictator Ferdinand Marcos, remains a deeply polarizing topic, with some hailing it as a victory for democracy while others question its legacy.

A recent comparison of statements from Sara Duterte, the current Vice President and Education Secretary, and formerly the Mayor of Davao City, reveals an apparent shift in her perspective on EDSA. In 2017, she expressed skepticism and resistance toward its significance. By 2024, however, she publicly embraced the revolution’s ideals. The question now is: Has Sara Duterte truly changed her stance, or is this a calculated political move?

Sara Duterte in 2017: A Harsh Critique of EDSA

In a statement dated February 24, 2017, while serving as Davao City Mayor, Sara Duterte voiced a strong disdain for the way EDSA is regarded as the benchmark of freedom in the Philippines.

“I find it hard to understand why this bloodless revolution has become the standard definition of freedom for our country and this standard is forced down our throats by a certain group of individuals who think they are better than everyone else.”

Her words reflect a deep frustration, possibly echoing the sentiments of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, who was also critical of the revolution. Many Duterte supporters have long questioned whether EDSA truly benefited the nation or merely replaced one elite with another.

Sara Duterte’s 2017 remarks align with the populist rhetoric that fueled the rise of the Duterte brand—one that challenged the established narratives upheld by those in power before her father’s presidency. By questioning EDSA’s legacy, she positioned herself as a leader willing to break away from mainstream historical interpretations.

Sara Duterte in 2024: A Newfound Appreciation for EDSA?

Fast forward to February 25, 2024, and Sara Duterte, now the country’s Vice President and Education Secretary, presented a very different message on EDSA:

“Let us remember the lessons of Edsa—the power of unity, the strength of the Filipino spirit, and the importance of standing up for what is right. [...] May we continue to uphold the spirit of Edsa in all that we do.”

The stark contrast in tone raises several important questions. Has Sara Duterte genuinely changed her perspective, or is this a strategic political recalibration?

As Vice President and Education Secretary, she holds a significant national leadership role, requiring her to adopt a more unifying stance. Acknowledging the importance of EDSA aligns with the broader historical education expected from someone in her position. It also signals a possible attempt to appeal to a wider audience, particularly those who see EDSA as a defining moment in Philippine democracy.

This shift also coincides with the current administration’s alliance with the Marcos family, whose patriarch was the very dictator overthrown by the revolution. By framing EDSA in a more neutral or positive light, Sara Duterte may be strategically balancing her allegiance to both the Marcoses and the pro-EDSA sectors of society.

The Bigger Picture: A Politician’s Evolution or Political Strategy?

Sara Duterte’s apparent change in stance is not an isolated incident in Philippine politics. Many leaders have adapted their positions over time, often in response to shifting political landscapes.

Political Pragmatism: As a potential future presidential candidate, Sara Duterte must appeal to a broader electorate beyond her father’s core base. Acknowledging EDSA’s significance could be an effort to soften her image and gain support from moderates.

Institutional Role: As Education Secretary, she is responsible for shaping historical education, making it difficult to outright dismiss a pivotal national event. Her new position demands a more balanced perspective.

Marcos-Duterte Alliance: The Bongbong Marcos administration benefits from Duterte’s popularity, and vice versa. By tempering her criticism of EDSA, Sara Duterte avoids unnecessary political friction while maintaining good relations with both Marcos loyalists and pro-democracy advocates.

Final Thoughts: Words vs. Actions

While Sara Duterte’s evolving stance on EDSA is notable, what truly matters is whether her leadership reflects the revolution’s democratic ideals. Will she champion transparency, good governance, and the rule of law? Or is this simply a tactical shift in rhetoric to align with the current political climate?

As the nation watches her next moves, Filipinos must remain vigilant and critical. Political statements can change, but the real test lies in actions, policies, and governance.

One thing remains certain: Sara Duterte’s political journey is far from over, and her evolving stance on EDSA is just one chapter in a much larger narrative.