The Mighty Coconut: How an Iconic Fruit is Empowering Filipino Communities

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

From the lush fields of the Philippines to the bustling halls of SM Megamall, the humble coconut is proving to be a powerful symbol of Filipino innovation, sustainability, and economic empowerment. The 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair, a collaboration between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Philippine Coconut Authority, and SM Supermalls, recently shined a spotlight on this versatile fruit, showcasing how it is transforming lives and communities nationwide.

Held from August 28 to September 2, the event was more than just a trade fair; it was a movement celebrating the ingenuity of Filipino entrepreneurs and the deep-rooted importance of the coconut industry. With over 220 exhibitors from across the country, the fair highlighted a diverse range of coconut-based products, from food and wellness items to biodegradable household goods.

Innovation with a Purpose

The fair was a powerful testament to how coconut-based innovations are shaping a more sustainable future. Entrepreneurs displayed a wide variety of eco-friendly creations, from organic health supplements to household items that champion green living. Dr. Priscilla Kimes of Kimes Foods (Cebu) highlighted how the support from DTI and SM has allowed her company to reach more consumers and even secure patents in 11 countries, proving that local innovation can thrive on a global scale. Randy Pineda, President of the Association of Bamboo and Coco Crafts of Tiwi (Albay), echoed this sentiment, noting the strong support from the DTI and the significant boost in sales that come from trade fairs held at SM.

A Partnership for Progress

The success of the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair is a powerful example of what can be achieved when government and private sectors collaborate. As a key partner, SM Supermalls reaffirmed its commitment to providing platforms that elevate local industries and create opportunities for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

"By bringing together coconut farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs under one roof, the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair not only strengthens the coconut industry but also empowers the communities behind it," said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. "SM Supermalls is proud to be part of this mission." The company, which operates 88 malls nationwide, views its spaces as launchpads for innovation and entrepreneurship, providing a vital stage for MSMEs to grow and succeed.

This trade fair stands as a powerful testament to how a single agricultural asset can become a catalyst for national growth and empowerment. It proves that with the right support, the Philippines' most iconic fruit can build a stronger, more sustainable future for its farmers and entrepreneurs.

SM Supermalls' Bold New Era: All for You

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In an era defined by constant change, one name in the Philippines has become synonymous with continuity, community, and retail leadership: SM Supermalls. As it celebrates its 40th anniversary, SM is not just looking back at its legacy but is charting a bold new course for the future of retail. From its humble beginnings with the opening of SM North EDSA in 1985, which fundamentally changed how Filipinos shopped and connected, SM has grown into a vast network of 88 malls that welcome millions of visitors weekly. Now, it is poised to enter a "New Era," promising to transform its entire portfolio into smarter, greener, and more people-centered destinations by 2030.

A Bold Vision for the Future

SM’s ambitious roadmap is a testament to its commitment to innovation and growth. The company plans to deliver one flagship mall every year from 2026 to 2030. These landmark projects are designed to be more than just shopping centers; they will be "ecosystems" that blend shopping, dining, culture, and community, serving as anchors for regional economies.

The list of upcoming flagship destinations is a clear sign of this vision in action:

SM Sta. Rosa (Yulo) in Nuvali, set to open in 2026 

Harrison Plaza in Manila, scheduled for 2027 

SM Malolos in Bulacan, planned for 2028 

New malls in Cavite (2029) and Pasay (2030) 

Beyond these new developments, SM is making a massive investment of over PHP 150 billion to redevelop 16 major malls and build 12 new lifestyle malls. These redevelopments will modernize existing malls with features like open-air promenades and sustainable designs, ensuring every SM mall becomes a vibrant and green space.

A Legacy Built on Trust and Partnership

At the heart of SM's success is a simple yet powerful philosophy: "success is shared". According to Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls, the company was built on a foundation of trust and collaboration with its tenants, partners, and communities. This guiding principle has enabled SM to grow alongside its partners, making it a beloved retail channel woven into the daily lives of Filipino families for four decades.

This spirit of partnership is reflected in the "New Era" vision. SM is evolving its retail ecosystem to be more tenant-led, offering dynamic formats and collaborative platforms to ensure that its partners also succeed. As Tan puts it, this new phase isn't just about building more malls; it's about "creating destinations that matter" and modernizing the ones people already love.

More Than Just a Mall

SM's new vision goes beyond physical expansion. It represents a commitment to adapt, innovate, and create experiences that matter to Filipino families. With a focus on sustainability, the new developments will incorporate smarter designs and renewable energy. The ultimate goal is to build the next generation of malls for the next generation of Filipinos.

As SM celebrates its 40th anniversary, it is honoring this legacy with over 4,000 exclusive deals in collaboration with its partners across all 88 malls. It's a grand celebration that underscores the company’s unique position as a community builder and a symbol of continuity for generations. In the end, SM's promise is straightforward: "Everything we do is all for you".

A Celebration of Filipino Entrepreneurship: The VIYLine MSME Caravan Rolls into SM City Masinag

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

The VIYLine MSME Caravan is bringing a vibrant showcase of local entrepreneurship and proudly Filipino products to SM City Masinag from September 17 to 23. This event, a collaboration between VIYLine Group of Companies and SM Supermalls, has become a beloved platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to shine.

What to Expect

Shoppers can look forward to discovering a wide range of products that highlight the creativity and resilience of Filipino entrepreneurs. The caravan features everything from beauty and wellness essentials to fashion finds, home must-haves, and foodie favorites.

The week-long event promises a lively atmosphere with interactive booths, meet-and-greets with influencer-entrepreneurs, and special deals that celebrate the best of Filipino MSMEs. The caravan has already made waves in previous stops across Luzon, including SM City Dasmariñas, Bacoor, San Pablo, Santa Rosa, Calamba, Fairview, Cabanatuan, and Muntinlupa. These earlier events drew enthusiastic crowds eager to support local brands and meet their favorite influencer-entrepreneurs.

Stars and Supporters

The caravan’s success is fueled by the support of prominent personalities. 

VIYLine CEO Viy Cortez–Velasquez has been a key presence, joining merchants and influencers and reinforcing the brand’s commitment to uplifting MSMEs. During an earlier stop in SM City Muntinlupa, popular figures like Toni Fowler, owner of FAB, and Vince Flores made a grand entrance to show their support. Host Tita Krissy Achino and Even PH co-owners Venice Velasquez and Eve Castro were also present, supporting their fellow MSMEs.

The event is not just about shopping; it's a full-fledged experience. The dance group Mastermind, known for their viral dance covers, energized the crowd with a special performance during the opening program. Students, fans, and young shoppers have filled the venues with excitement, eager to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities while celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship.

A Movement to Support Local

According to a spokesperson from SM, the partnership with VIYLine is a source of pride, as it gives MSMEs spaces to "thrive, connect with customers, and grow". SM Supermalls, with 88 malls nationwide, views MSMEs as crucial to their mission, transforming their malls into "launchpads of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship". The caravan has proven that "supporting local is not just a trend, but a movement".

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this success story. The VIYLine MSME Caravan will be at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Masinag from September 17 to 23. Come and celebrate Filipino talent while shopping with purpose.