The Crown Jewel: SM Mall of Asia’s Solar Showcase

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

No symbol of SM’s solar crusade shines brighter than the SM Mall of Asia (MOA). Already a titan in the retail world, MOA is now a flagship of environmental innovation.

Its most iconic feature—the MOA Sky, a solar-panel-covered pedestrian walkway—blends sleek design with function. With 555 photovoltaic panels, it not only shades mallgoers but contributes 0.3 Megawatts of renewable energy to the mall’s power system.

Zoom out, and the numbers soar. MOA now hosts 11,355 solar panels, collectively delivering 3 Megawatts of peak energy. That’s enough to power around 1,000 escalators for a day, or provide electricity to 1,800 average households for an entire month—without a single puff of emissions.

MOA’s leadership in sustainability was center stage at the 2025 Energy Efficiency Day conference. There, Engr. Teodoro Bautista, Vice President of SM Engineering, Design, and Development Corporation, unveiled the group’s energy transformation. MOA’s innovation was recognized with the Department of Energy’s inaugural Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution—a major milestone validating the synergy between business innovation and climate action.

Everyday Innovation: Sustainability Beyond the Rooftop

But SM’s solar strategy goes far beyond large-scale installations. At SM City Bicutan, green innovation takes a more personal shape: solar-powered parasols dot the Sky Garden, offering shade by day and light by night. These smart structures charge in just three hours of sunlight and provide up to five hours of illumination—combining utility, ambiance, and sustainability in a single experience.

It’s proof that eco-consciousness need not come at the cost of customer comfort. In fact, at SM, it enhances it.

The Bigger Picture: Advancing Toward Net Zero

All of these innovations form part of a far-reaching agenda: SM Prime’s Net Zero 2040 roadmap. The company is aggressively decarbonizing its operations, electrifying its energy systems, and embedding renewables throughout its developments.

In an era where greenwashing is easy and accountability is rare, SM Prime offers something rare—results. Their solar program is more than a commitment—it’s a blueprint for what true environmental responsibility looks like in the real world.

A Future Already in Motion

As the sun dips below the Manila Bay horizon, the solar panels across SM’s rooftops continue their quiet labor—absorbing light, producing power, and defying the old limits of possibility.

In this crucial moment for our planet, SM Prime is proving that sustainability isn’t a luxury or a dream—it’s the new standard. Their bold, data-driven, future-focused approach stands as a challenge to businesses everywhere: lead, innovate, and act—because the future won’t wait.

And thanks to the solar-powered revolution launched by SM Prime, tomorrow just got a little brighter.

Royal Korean Dining in Manila: Paldo Opens Its Doors at SM Podium

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a city already teeming with culinary treasures, a new jewel has emerged at SM Podium—one that promises to transport diners straight to the royal courts of ancient Korea. Paldo, the Philippines' first Korean fine dining establishment, has arrived with a vision as bold as its flavors: to democratize the royal dining experience without sacrificing an ounce of authenticity or elegance.

A Taste of Korean Royalty in Manila's Bustling Heart

As you ascend to the fifth level of SM Podium, the transition is almost palpable. The warm wooden accents and earthy palette of Paldo's interior create an immediate sense of escape—a sanctuary from the mall's bustling energy. Here, in this thoughtfully designed space, owner Ryan Bang has accomplished something remarkable: creating a dining experience that feels simultaneously exclusive yet accessible, refined yet approachable.

"Paldo," meaning "eight provinces," is more than just a name—it's a promise of a culinary journey across the diverse landscape of Korean cuisine. Each dish serves as an ambassador from a different region, telling the story of Korea's rich culinary heritage through flavors that range from the robust intensity of southern specialties to the delicate complexity of northern traditions.

Dining Like Korean Royalty, Without the Royal Price Tag

The crown jewel in Paldo's impressive menu is undoubtedly the Surasang—known evocatively as the "King's Meal." This isn't simply a dish but a full ceremonial experience, recreating the elaborate spreads once reserved exclusively for Korea's monarchy during the Joseon dynasty.

Imagine the scene: a table transformed into a tapestry of colors and textures, featuring the hearty comfort of Doenjang Jjigae (soybean stew) alongside the fiery allure of Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken). Tender Braised Back Ribs share space with the delicate artistry of Royal Modeum Jeon (Korean savory pancakes), while Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) adds its distinctive silky texture to the ensemble.

For those seeking a more curated experience, Chef Sam Kim's Signature Set offers a masterclass in balance and contrast. The Briquettes Bulgogi—marinated pork kissed by charcoal fire—creates a perfect counterpoint to the rich depth of Doenjang Jjigae, here elevated with the unexpected addition of snails alongside traditional tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables.

What makes these dining experiences truly exceptional isn't just the central dishes but the constellation of side dishes that accompany them—each one carefully selected to complement and enhance the meal's primary flavors. And to further elevate the experience, Paldo offers beverages specifically chosen to harmonize with the bold character of Korean cuisine.

A Setting Worthy of the Experience

The creators of Paldo understood that exceptional food deserves an exceptional setting. The restaurant's interior design weaves traditional Korean aesthetic elements into a contemporary space. Wood accents and earth tones create an atmosphere of refined warmth—versatile enough to serve as the backdrop for a casual business lunch or an intimate celebration dinner.

This thoughtful balance between tradition and modernity mirrors SM Podium's own reputation for curating premium experiences that feel both special and accessible. As part of the mall's collection of "first-to-market" concepts, Paldo reinforces SM's commitment to bringing unique and elevated experiences to Filipino consumers.

More Than Just a Meal

What Paldo offers is more than just dining—it's a cultural expedition that requires no passport. It's the opportunity to experience how Korean royalty once dined, adapted for contemporary palates and made accessible to everyone who appreciates culinary artistry.

Whether you're a Korean cuisine enthusiast looking to deepen your appreciation or simply someone who values exceptional food in a beautiful setting, Paldo offers something truly distinctive in Manila's vibrant dining landscape.

As Manila's food scene continues to evolve and mature, establishments like Paldo represent an exciting direction—one that honors culinary traditions while making them relevant and accessible to modern diners. By bringing the royal dining traditions of Korea to the heart of the city, Paldo has added a significant new dimension to the capital's gastronomic map.

The next time you find yourself at SM Podium, consider ascending to the fifth floor—where a taste of Korean royal heritage awaits. In a city that never stops evolving, Paldo offers something timeless: the pleasure of exceptional food served with care and creativity, in a setting designed to transport you far beyond the confines of a shopping mall.

Visit Paldo at the 5th level of SM Podium. For more exclusive dining experiences and first-to-market brands at SM Supermalls, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

A New Era of Firsts: SM Supermalls Ushers in a Dazzling New Chapter in Metro Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a world constantly in motion, where novelty and nostalgia blend in thrilling harmony, there’s one place where every corner sings with promise—a space where everyday moments become something truly extraordinary. Welcome to SM Supermalls, where the pulse of Metro Manila beats stronger than ever, unveiling a dramatic wave of firsts that redefine lifestyle, leisure, and luxury.

SM Mall of Asia: Where Passion Meets Performance

In the vast, vibrant arena of the SM Mall of Asia (MOA), thrill-seekers and lifestyle enthusiasts are stepping into an exciting new world of possibilities.

Enter Salomon, the undisputed icon in outdoor gear, planting its biggest Philippine flag yet. It's not just a store; it’s a haven for adventurers—those who scale heights, chase trails, and dare the wilderness. Next to it stands a powerhouse in athletic precision: Wilson. Making its Philippine debut, Wilson’s flagship store serves serious tennis players and sports aficionados with elite gear and game-ready apparel that breathes performance.

But the energy doesn’t end with gear. Soon, the comforting aroma of Kiji Bakehouse will float through MOA, offering a taste of European-Japanese fusion pastry perfection. And for tea connoisseurs, Chicha San Chen arrives with patented Teapresso technology—each cup a sip of Taiwanese mastery in every brew.

SM North EDSA: Sweet Surprises and Bold Bites

At SM North EDSA, life’s little pleasures await in unforgettable flavors. Begin with a touch of sweetness—TangFruits, the Korean twist on the viral tanghulu fruit snack, makes healthy indulgence real with 80% less sugar but 100% satisfaction.

But this is just the beginning. Prepare for a culinary and wellness renaissance as new experiences rise:

Craft Coffee Revolution awakens the senses with artisan brews.

Lan Hot Pot takes diners to a galaxy far, far away with its space-themed buffet.

SkinGoals turns beauty into a lifestyle, offering award-winning rejuvenation in every touch.

SM Podium: Where Comfort Meets Culinary Art

For those craving heartwarming meals with a contemporary twist, SM Podium opens the door to a new kind of dining.

HeyBo, straight from Singapore, brings in guilt-free grain bowls brimming with nutrients and flavor. Beside it, Aurora invites you on a culinary journey through bold, share-worthy Asian flavors, bridging comfort food and global flair with every bite.

SM Aura: Beauty in Full Bloom

In the luminous halls of SM Aura, beauty reveals its most luxurious side. LOOK At Me emerges as a sanctuary for glow-getters, with two iconic names redefining self-care:

YSL Beauty offers couture sophistication—cosmetics and fragrances designed to empower unapologetic boldness.

Lancôme wraps elegance in sustainability, combining skincare science with timeless grace.

S Maison: Where Sophistication Feels Effortless

For those who delight in elevated tastes and thoughtful living, S Maison is your next destination. Indulge in the French finesse of Lartizan, where traditional techniques create world-class flavors. Or find mid-day bliss at Brunch Bureau, the perfect in-between stop for comfort food cravings.

And for a more vibrant, health-conscious lifestyle, BioVitalis debuts its first-in-the-country wellness boutique, curating supplements and lifestyle essentials for those who strive to thrive.

SM Supermalls: More Than Malls, A Movement

This isn’t just a new season. It’s a revolution. From game-changing store openings to tastebud-teasing culinary adventures, SM Supermalls leads Metro Manila into a new era—a dramatic reimagining of how we shop, dine, play, and live.

Each mall is a stage, each visit a new scene in the story of your everyday greatness.

So why wait? Dive into a world of dazzling firsts and unforgettable moments. Only at SM Supermalls, where the extraordinary awaits—just around every corner.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com to stay ahead of what’s next. Because here, the future isn’t just coming—it’s already happening.

Welcome to the #NewEraOfFirsts.