Rising to the Challenge: SM City La Union Fights Climate Change with Climate-Smart Infrastructure

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As climate change continues to drive heavier rains and more frequent floods across the Philippines, the need for proactive flood prevention has never been more critical in building resilient communities. Standing as a new beacon of climate-smart development, SM City La Union is tackling this challenge head-on by launching a powerful new defense against the rising waters: a massive rainwater catchment system.

This newly opened mall is now the 30th SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) property to feature this essential climate-resilient infrastructure.

A Bulwark Against the Flood

The primary purpose of SM Supermalls' catchment facilities is to collect and store large volumes of stormwater, effectively preventing the uncontrolled runoff that can quickly overwhelm local drainage networks.

The system is designed to temporarily hold stormwater during heavy rainfall.

This storage allows for the water to be discharged gradually through proper channels, mitigating flood risk.

Collectively, the underground rainwater catchment system at SM City La Union boasts a total capacity of 760 cubic meters.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan emphasized the profound importance of these installations: “Our rainwater catchment systems go beyond flood control — they help create safer spaces for our communities. We hope to show how climate-smart infrastructure and innovation can protect lives, livelihoods, and progress”.

Water for Tomorrow: A Sustainable Vision

SM Prime’s commitment to climate resilience extends beyond flood mitigation, weaving into a comprehensive strategy for sustainable water use. By focusing on managing available resources, the company aims to meet the needs of future generations.

A key part of this vision, dubbed Water for Tomorrow, involves the treating and reusing of water as a supplemental source, which significantly decreases freshwater consumption. The results of these efforts are compelling:

In 2024, SM Prime achieved a 26.23% increase in recycled water volume.

The volume rose dramatically from 4.42 million cubic meters in 2023 to 5.59 million cubic meters.

Empowering Community Action

Physical infrastructure is only one part of the solution; social resilience is equally important. Through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares empowers the public by raising awareness on water conservation and promoting the adoption of sustainable practices in daily life.

SM Prime’s dedication to sustainability is championed through the SM Green Movement, which focuses on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers Filipinos—individuals, families, and communities—to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come.

Every design decision, every drop of stored water, and every community initiative contributes to a safer, more sustainable future for all. SM City La Union is not just a mall; it is a powerful demonstration of how business innovation protects communities in the face of a changing climate.

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.