The Heartbeat of a Nation: SM Supermalls and the Unstoppable Rise of the Filipino Entrepreneur

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

February 2026 marks a seismic shift in the Philippine retail landscape. It is the month where the "backbone of the economy" finally takes center stage. In a powerful display of synergy, SM Supermalls has joined forces with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philstar Media Group, and Go Negosyo to ignite a movement that is about far more than just business—it is about the soul of Filipino innovation.

This isn't just a series of events; it is a purpose-driven mission to ensure that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) don't just survive in an evolving economy—they thrive, scale, and conquer.

Mentorship on Fire: Go Negosyo’s 3M on Wheels

The journey toward greatness begins with the right guidance. On February 25, the hustle and heart of Filipino entrepreneurs will descend upon SM Megamall for Go Negosyo’s 3M on Wheels.

This is mentorship stripped of the boardroom stiff-collars and brought directly to the people. Aspiring and established entrepreneurs will engage in free, one-on-one coaching with industry titans. Whether it is mastering the art of digital transformation or the grit of financial scaling, this "quick-stop" platform provides the sharp edge needed to compete in a globalized market.

The Grand Showcase: DTI’s National Trade Fair

From February 18 to 22, the Megatrade Halls will transform into a cathedral of Filipino craftsmanship. The DTI-Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair is where sustainability meets high-end design.

Visitors will witness the future of industry:

Eco-Conscious Innovation: Furniture and fashion birthed from coconut materials, engineered bamboo, and natural fibers.

Heritage Reborn: Intricately handcrafted apparel and accessories from indigenous tribes, proving that Filipino roots are the strongest foundation for modern style.

Immersive Culture: Beyond the stalls, the fair pulses with live product demonstrations and cultural workshops that celebrate a heritage built on creativity.

Love Local, Grow Global: Philstar’s NakakaLocal Bazaar

The celebration of local pride takes a scenic turn as the Philstar NakakaLocal Bazaar heads to the mountains. From February 27 to March 1, SM City Baguio will host a curated selection of homegrown gems.

Following its massive success in Cebu, this bazaar is a testament to the power of media and retail collaboration. It bridges the gap between the small-town creator and the national audience, fueling a movement that encourages every Filipino to "love local" so our brands can eventually "grow global".

"Filipino MSMEs aren’t just participating in the future of business. They’re shaping it." 

A Legacy of Growth

With 89 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls has evolved into more than just a developer; it is an incubator for dreams. By providing market access and mentorship, SM ensures that every booth tells a story of passion and perseverance.

This February, the message is clear: when the giants of industry and the government stand behind the entrepreneur, they don't just build businesses—they build a resilient nation.

Are you ready to be part of the journey? Visit msme.smsupermalls.com or reach out to customercare@smsupermalls.com to join the revolution.

The Two-Wheeled Revolution: How SM Supermalls Transformed a Pandemic Crisis into a National Movement

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

In the dark early days of the pandemic, when public transportation ground to a sudden and terrifying halt, millions of Filipinos found themselves stranded. The vital arteries of the city were severed, leaving households struggling to reach even the most basic essentials. But in this moment of profound isolation, a silent hero emerged on two wheels: the bicycle.

Recognizing that biking had become a literal lifeline for the community, SM Supermalls stepped forward to turn a desperate necessity into a nationwide revolution for Active Mobility.

From Parking Spots to a National Infrastructure

What began as a simple, heartfelt response to help cyclists pick up groceries has evolved into a massive, integrated bike program spanning every single SM mall in the country. Under the visionary leadership of the mall giant, the landscape of Filipino travel has been permanently reshaped.

A Sanctuary for Cyclists

SM didn't just provide space; they created a sanctuary. Their properties now feature a sophisticated ecosystem of biker-friendly amenities designed for safety and dignity:

Dedicated Repair Stations: Equipped with essential tools to keep riders on the move.

Sustainable Protection: Bike racks are padded with upcycled rubber tires to protect frames from scratches.

Intuitive Safety: Clear, dedicated cycling lanes that guide riders safely through busy urban centers.

Elite Amenities: In many locations, the experience is elevated with bike lounges, showers, and lockers, treating cyclists as first-class citizens of the road.

A Record-Breaking Triumph: The 2025 Mobility Awards

This relentless pursuit of a biker-inclusive Philippines has not gone unnoticed. In a historic sweep, SM Supermalls and its CSR arm, SM Cares, have captured the trust of the nation and the highest honors in the industry.

The Medal Count

SM secured a staggering 36 total wins from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Mobility Awards. The haul includes:

1 Gold Citation 

11 Silver Citations 

22 Bronze Citations 

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) lauded SM’s "Pedal Power 2025" as a Notable Advocacy Program, citing the company's innovation and long-term commitment to making active transport safer for every Filipino.

More Than Transport: A New Way of Life

"Active Mobility plays a crucial role not just in preserving the environment but in the enrichment of every Filipino," says Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing.

Through collaborations with local biking communities, SM malls have become "beloved places" where cycling is celebrated as both a sport and a lifestyle. Tenants have even adjusted their operating hours to accommodate cycling groups, ensuring that the mall is a true home for those who choose the pedal over the piston.

The Future is Rolling

As SM Supermalls celebrates 40 years of evolution, their commitment to the future is clear. They are moving beyond traditional retail to redefine urban life, ensuring that as the country moves forward, it does so sustainably, inclusively, and safely.

The message is loud and clear: in the pursuit of a greener, healthier Philippines, SM is leading the pack.

The Frozen Frontier: SM Transforms Malls into Arenas of Champions

 

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

In the heart of tropical Manila, a silent revolution is unfolding—not on the streets, but on the ice. SM Supermalls, long the cornerstone of Filipino urban life, has pivoted from a retail giant into a powerhouse for grassroots sports development. Through the third local hosting of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy, SM is proving that champions aren't just born; they are forged in the high-stakes, sub-zero environments of their world-class rinks. 

A Record-Breaking Triumphal Return

The 2026 SEA Trophy marked a historic milestone for the Philippines, signaling a "pivotal moment" for local winter sports.  This year’s event was more than a competition; it was a spectacle of growth and national pride:

Unprecedented Scale: The tournament saw its largest-ever turnout, with 90 athletes aged 6 to 24. 

International Reach: Competitors descended upon Manila from eight nations, including Thailand, Singapore, China, India, and Indonesia. 

The Philippine Sweep: The home team delivered a masterclass in speed and precision, hauling in a staggering 29 medals (12 gold, 11 silver, and 6 bronze). 

"This year marks our highest turnout yet, along with the country’s strongest medal haul to date," says Joseph Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Skating. "We see this as a pivotal moment to spotlight the potential of our young, emerging athletes." 

Beyond the Podium: A Platform for Evolution

While the medals glitter, the true value of the SEA Trophy lies in its role as a "development platform." By transforming the Olympic-sized rink at SM Mall of Asia into a professional arena, SM provides emerging skaters with an entry-level international stage that is both structured and supportive. 

Nikki Cheng, President of the Philippine Skating Union, emphasizes that the exposure is transformative:

"They gain more than a chance of winning medals. They attain access to a professional arena, exposing them to different styles of athleticism." 

Backed by the International Skating Union (ISU) Development Commission and the Philippine Sports Commission, the event fosters a culture of coaching exchange and cross-border collaboration that is essential for global competitiveness. 

Homegrown Heroes and Global Prospects

The impact of SM’s "holistic approach" is best seen through the individual lives it has changed.  The rinks have become a "home" where talent is honed into excellence:

Hans Buemio: A SEA Games podium finisher who began his journey at SM. He has now made history as the country’s first homegrown speed skater to qualify for the ISU Junior World Cup series. 

Bingzhen Dai: An emerging talent from China who has spent the last two years training within SM’s facilities, proving the rinks serve as a regional hub for excellence. 

A Legacy of Winning

With 89 malls across the Philippines, SM Supermalls is no longer just a place to shop—it is "Where Winning Begins." Through its Sports and Leisure Center (SLC), SM is revolutionizing fitness and sports engagement, providing inclusive pathways for the next generation of Filipino "greats" to reach the world stage. 

As the dust—or rather, the ice shavings—settles on the 2026 SEA Trophy, the message is clear: the Philippines is no longer a spectator in the world of ice sports.  It is a contender.