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Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Digital Revolution at the SM Job Fairs: SM Supermalls and DICT Forge a Future-Ready Filipino Workforce!


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Quezon City, Philippines — November 6, 2025. A powerful alliance was formally sealed at the Skydome, SM City North EDSA, marking a dramatic leap toward empowering the next generation of Filipino talent. SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), officially unveiled Digital Corners in SM Job Fairs nationwide , transforming mall job sites into dynamic "job-and-learning fairs".




This monumental launch took place during the J.O.B.S. (Job Opportunities Building Skills) Immersion for SHS 2025 event , where a tangible Pledge of Commitment was signed.










Formalizing the Future: The Pledge and Partnership

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda and SM Supermalls VP for Mall Operations Junias Eusebio formalized their shared vision through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The agreement establishes Digital Corners in SM Job Fairs and champions real-world opportunities to equip young Filipinos with future-ready digital skills.


"This is the next step in our collective efforts to not only match jobs with job seekers but to equip them with future-ready digital skills," stated Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations, SM Supermalls. "By housing this initiative in SM malls, we’re turning job fairs into job-and-learning fairs—places where opportunity and capability meet." 


The Digital Corner: An Upskilling Hub for All

The Digital Corner is a revolutionary, free, and open-access upskilling hub strategically located within SM job fair venues. It is an innovative learning solution designed to benefit thousands of Filipinos annually, especially graduating Senior High School (SHS) students.


Job seekers can access training opportunities in a diverse range of critical digital competencies:


Digital literacy 


Python programming 


Google Career Certificate courses 


Basic networking and coding 


Cybersecurity 


Online entrepreneurship 


From Classroom to Career: Empowering SHS Students

The November 6th event served as the official rollout of the Enhanced Work Immersion Pilot (EWIP) , a critical collaboration between the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC). SM Supermalls, alongside SM Retail, is a key venue and industry partner for this transformative program.


Nearly 1,000 SHS students from over 40 schools, accompanied by parents and teachers, participated in the J.O.B.S. Immersion launch. The energy in the Skydome was palpable as students took their first steps from the classroom to a potential career.


The EWIP is dramatically transforming the SHS experience by significantly increasing work immersion hours from the current 80–320 hours to a robust 420–640 hours. This expanded, hands-on training ensures classroom learning is aligned with real-world skills in vital sectors like retail, hospitality, and technology, co-developed with industry partners.


Throughout the day, students engaged in:


Career readiness sessions with experts.


Exploring the Digital Economy Showcase.


Interacting with booths from DICT and private partners to explore future paths.


Industry leaders, including SM Retail, Newport World Resorts, and DOST-ICT Office, provided invaluable career insights and mentorship during the Immersion Talks.


SM Supermalls: The Future of Opportunity Centers

As SM Supermalls celebrates 40 Super Years of Evolving, it reaffirms its role as a steadfast partner in nation-building. With 88 malls nationwide, SM is opening doors to employment through accessible job fairs.


For four decades, SM has grown beyond a retail destination, becoming a platform for empowering Filipinos with livelihood opportunities. By championing inclusivity and opportunity through strategic partnerships, SM is bridging job seekers with employers and fostering workforce development for inclusive economic growth. The launch of the Digital Corners solidifies SM Supermalls' commitment to shaping a future where capability meets opportunity.

The New Epicenter of Flavor: SM Supermalls Unveils a 'New Era' of Dining in Metro Manila!


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Great meals don't just fill you up—they forge memories and keep you coming back for more. This season, SM Supermalls invites you to step into a bold new era full of evolving and delicious finds , presenting a lineup of food destinations made to ignite cravings and establish lasting favorites. These aren't just meals; they are flavor moments you’ll want to return to!






From the rich culinary traditions of Japan to the meticulous artistry of coffee and Swiss chocolate, each new location is a "best new first" , thoughtfully selected to raise the bar for flavor and bring fresh dining experiences to every table.


A Deep Dive into Japanese Delights: A Journey Through Japan

Nothing compares to the depth and comfort of authentic Japanese flavors. SM has handpicked spots that bring a true taste of Japan to the Metro , serving everything from hearty ramen to delicate traditional sweets.



Ramen Nagi, SM Mall of Asia Craving comfort in a bowl? Ramen Nagi serves up rich, soul-warming ramen at the Ground Level, South Wing of SM Mall of Asia. Every bowl—with its creamy tonkotsu broth, perfectly chewy noodles, and customizable toppings—is made to hit just the right spot, whether you are a spice chaser or a flavor purist.



Warabimochi, SM Aura Prepare for a whole new texture in dessert! The soft, silky, and satisfying Japanese favorite, Warabimochi, has arrived at the Lower Ground Level of SM Aura. This treat melts in your mouth , whether you savor it dusted in nutty kinako or topped with luscious syrup. It's the kind of sweetness you’ll want to linger over.




Poured to Perfection: The Artistry of the Brew

From the roast to the steep, the process of crafting the perfect beverage is done with care. These coffee and tea destinations offer expertly crafted cups that balance flavor, aroma, and artistry —ideal for slow mornings, midday pick-me-ups, or anything in between.


CHAGEE, SM City North EDSA Cool, creamy, and brewed just right, CHAGEE makes its Philippine debut at the 2nd Level, City Center of SM City North EDSA. Every cup is steeped to perfection for a flavor that hits just right, making it tea time with an extra kick of fun.



Kenangan Coffee, SM Megamall Bold flavors, smooth pours, and the best Indonesian vibe are now brewing at SM Megamall with Kenangan Coffee. Known for its signature lattes and creative blends, this coffee promises moments that are anything but ordinary.


H Proper Coffee Roasters, SM Podium Turn your ordinary coffee run into something you look forward to at SM Podium. H Proper Coffee Roasters brews up rich aromas and a just-right caffeine kick to turn your ordinary day into a great one.



The Gold Standard of Indulgence: Läderach

Some chocolates are so good they become an experience all on their own. Enter Läderach , Switzerland’s world-famous chocolatier, which has finally arrived at SM Mall of Asia, marking its first store in the Philippines. Known for its silky pralines, crisp nut-studded slabs, and decadent truffles, each bite perfectly balances richness and refinement. This is Swiss chocolate done right—the gold standard of indulgence.



Brunch O’Clock: The Freedom to Feast Anytime

Who says brunch is only for weekends? With the first Brunch Bureau in SM now open at the 2nd Level of S Maison, it's easier than ever to turn any time of day into an excuse for pancakes at 3 PM. From perfectly brewed coffee to savory plates that hit the spot , Brunch Bureau is your moment to slow down and enjoy a little extra me-time. No rush, no rules—just brunch done your way.



The #NewEraOfSMSupermalls

How far will your cravings take you? From rich, savory staples to next-level sweets, Metro Manila’s newest dining spots are here to tempt, surprise, and satisfy. These flavors are thoughtfully picked to turn your everyday cravings into something worth obsessing over.


At SM Supermalls, we are always growing and evolving with you, showing that we've got it all for you. The bold New Era unfolds with Evolving Finds—the best in brands, dining, and experiences, all for you.

Beyond the Tap: How SM Prime is Engineering a Water-Resilient Future for the Philippines


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In the bustling urban landscapes of the Philippines, a silent crisis is looming. As cities expand rapidly and the unpredictable effects of climate change intensify, the pressure on limited water resources has never been higher. While the challenge is daunting, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime)—one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers—is turning the tide, positioning water efficiency not just as a corporate responsibility, but as a core operational strategy for survival and sustainability.







The Blueprint for Resilience

SM Prime has moved far beyond basic conservation; they are re-engineering the very concept of water management in commercial spaces. The company has adopted a rigorous approach where every opportunity to collect and conserve water is explored.


The results of this strategic shift are statistically staggering. SM Prime has achieved a portfolio-wide water intensity of 0.44 m³/m²/year. To put this into perspective, this figure already surpasses the water efficiency standards of some of the leading global benchmarks.


"Our mall water management systems are already at par with some of the best in the world. We do this because we understand that every liter saved eases the pressure on local water resources and secures our operations for the long term." — Steven Tan, SM Supermalls President.


Innovation Beneath the Surface

How is a giant of retail achieving millions of liters in annual savings?. The answer lies in a blend of simple upgrades and complex, innovative engineering:



Stopping the Waste: The adoption of simple low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies prevents unnecessary consumption at a massive scale.



Recycling the Invisible: The malls minimize dependence on fresh water by recycling processed water and even the condensate from air conditioning systems.



Turning Threats into Resources: In a move that addresses both scarcity and storm management, SM employs innovative approaches to capture portions of floodwater for non-potable use.


Icons of Sustainability: A Nationwide Effort

This commitment to water stewardship is visible across the archipelago, from the urban jungles of Metro Manila to the provinces.



The Global Giant: The SM Mall of Asia, one of the world's largest shopping malls, stands as a "sustainable marvel," utilizing these water-saving solutions to maintain its massive operations responsibly.



The Pioneer: SM City North Edsa was ahead of the curve, operating efficiently even before the Clean Water Act of 2004. Its famous Sky Garden, a 400-meter green roof, offers a lush escape in the dense city while lessening dependence on freshwater sources for non-potable uses.


The Provincial Model: At SM City Laoag, innovation translates to everyday responsibility. The mall recycles non-potable water for a variety of needs, including landscaping, garden irrigation, cleaning, and toilet flushing.



The Visayan Powerhouse: SM Seaside City Cebu, the fourth-largest mall in the country, proves that efficiency is a nationwide standard, utilizing recycled water for its cleaning and landscaping needs.


Cultivating a Culture of Conservation

SM Prime recognizes that upgrading hardware is only half the battle; the other half is upgrading mindsets. Culturally integrating sustainability values is a critical part of their solution.


Through the SM Green Movement, the company champions water stewardship alongside waste management and energy efficiency. This vision is communicated through SM Cares, a community platform that utilizes interactive and visually rich content to engage the public. This digital-first approach effectively captures the attention of the younger, digitally active Gen Z and millennial workforce, ensuring the message of conservation resonates with the next generation.


A Shared Responsibility

The ultimate goal of SM Prime is to create a sustainable mall experience that brings people together to ensure water availability for tomorrow. As the company continues to develop residences, offices, and leisure properties, they remain committed to creating spaces that support community growth without compromising the environment.


As Steven Tan powerfully summarizes, the path to a water-resilient future is a collective journey:


"Our work in the malls is to make sure that we give you the best experience without compromising the needs of tomorrow, but of course, we cannot do it alone. When we combine all our actions as a community, no matter how big or small these are, we can all enjoy a water-resilient future.".

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