Red Bull Athlete Lethal Shooter Showcases Philippine Basketball, Inspiring Local Hoopers with a Historic Rooftop Shot

Photo provided by: Red Bull Content Pool

Manila, Philippines (February 2, 2026) — Red Bull Philippines recently welcomed world-renowned shooting coach and global basketball sensation Chris Matthews, widely known as "Lethal Shooter," to the country. During his visit, Matthews made history by becoming the first person to take a basketball shot from the rooftop of The Tenement in Taguig. This landmark moment showcased his trademark creativity and precision while celebrating the Philippines' deep-rooted passion for the game.

"In the Philippines, the love and the passion just go really deep in the blood. People and the passion here is, to me, number one," said Matthews about the rich basketball culture in the country. "It's true love here for the game."

The rooftop shoot, a daring first for the Tenement basketball court, highlights Matthews' flair for blending precision with skill. He pushed the boundaries higher, capturing the respect and delight of the local basketball community.

"You know, my entire life, I saw this amazing court online. I saw the legendary people— Michael Jordan, Kobe, Luka—everybody had a mural here," Matthews shared. "So to shoot from the roof and to make a shot and to have a mural here, it's a dream come true, man. It's like basketball heaven for me."

To achieve his historic rooftop shot, Matthews had to use a specific technique, given his height and distance from the ring. "I had to use my pointer finger to soften the ball up because I was so high that the ball was coming so hard. So I had to have touch to hit the backboard. That's not really a shot from that far, and you'd have to use the backboard for it to go in.

Enriching the Future of the Local Streetball Community

Photo provided by: Red Bull Content Pool

Beyond making history with the rooftop shoot, Matthews also engaged with the local community through exhibition matches and a dunk contest. He also shared tips and personal insights with the local hoopers.

As a Red Bull athlete, he claims that one of the Red Bull values that reflects his approach to basketball is never giving up. "That's the one thing I love about being a Red Bull. It's a company that's always devoted to giving back to the community and giving back to people who are pushing themselves in life, and that's me," Matthews stated.

His visit championed the grassroots and streetball culture, showing that basketball thrives at every level—from casual neighborhood courts to the international stage.

"I was one of those guys who was homeless. I was one of those guys who didn't know what I was going to do with my life, and Red Bull gave me an opportunity. So to be a part of events like this, partnering with Red Bull and getting ready for Red Bull Half Court World Finals in December in the Philippines—this is a dream come true, man."

This landmark visit by Lethal Shooter marks a first-of-its-kind moment for Philippine basketball. The event blended elite-level coaching, community engagement, and a record-breaking feat as the first person to shoot a basketball from Tenement's rooftop, a moment shared on Lethal Shooter's official Instagram.

Photo provided by: Red Bull Content Pool

Chris "Lethal Shooter" Matthews shows off his rooftop trickshot at The Tenement in Taguig. Watch the full video here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DUEoIKYk0bN/ 

He also celebrated the local community's energy through a custom court mural designed by his cousins in collaboration with Tenement Visual Artists. The mural highlights Lethal Shooter's iconic challenges across different locations, including Man vs Turbine, reflecting his tenacity and passion for basketball while inspiring Filipino hoopers to bring the same determination as they pursue their goals.

If there's one piece of advice he would give young Filipinos who dream of improving their game, the basketball icon shared, "Just continue to be patient. Don't be in a rush. Understand that greatness takes time, and never allow failure to set you back. Use it to learn."

With so much energy and local basketball talent on display, the excitement doesn't end here. Stay tuned for Red Bull Half Court 2026, where the Philippines will host the World Finals, and catch more action-packed basketball moments.

"It's huge for the country—for Red Bull to decide that multiple countries are going to come here to play basketball. There's going to be so many people coming here who are going to see what the Philippines' life is about, and its passionate love for the game of basketball," Matthews said.

For the latest updates and highlights, visit Red Bull Philippines' social media channels and Lethal Shooter's official accounts. You won't want to miss what's coming next! 

SM Foundation Opens Online Registration for College Scholarship Program

SM Foundation has officially opened the online registration for its College Scholarship Program from February 1-28, 2026, extending greater educational opportunities to deserving senior high school graduates across the Philippines, including Zamboanga City, with the continued support of SM malls in Zamboanga.

 

The SM College Scholarship Program offers full college scholarships to qualified public high school graduates, covering tuition fees, as well as a monthly allowance to help with daily school expenses. The program aims to empower academically driven but financially challenged students to pursue higher education and build brighter futures.

 

Through SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga, SM Foundation strengthens its reach in Mindanao by promoting access to education as a key pillar of inclusive growth. Scholars are also provided with values formation, leadership development, and volunteer engagement opportunities that help mold them into responsible professionals and community leaders.

“Education has always been at the heart of nation-building,” said Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, Mall Manager of SM City Mindpro. “Through the SM Foundation Scholarship Program, we are proud to help open doors for young Zamboangueños so they can achieve their dreams and, in turn, uplift their families and communities.”

Over the years, SM Foundation produced over 8,000 scholar graduates and are now thriving in various professions, becoming living proof of how education can transform lives.

 

Eligible applicants from Zamboanga City and in the region may now apply via the official SM Foundation website. The fully online application process makes it easier and more accessible for students from both urban and far-flung areas to submit their requirements.

As registration opens this month, SM Foundation and SM malls in Zamboanga encourage qualified students to take this important step toward a better future, reaffirming their shared commitment to empowering the youth through education.

For complete application guidelines, partner schools, and updates, applicants are advised to visit the official SM Foundation website here: https://www.sm-foundation.org/what_we_do/college-scholarship-program/

SM Foundation Earns Silver Anvil Award for its #SpreadingSocialGood Online Campaign

SM Foundation (SMFI) received a Silver Anvil Award under the PR Tools, Multimedia category from the Public Relations Society of the Philippines for its #SpreadingSocialGood Stories Online campaign. The initiative strengthened the Foundation’s digital presence and translated online engagement into tangible social impact. Through strategic storytelling on Facebook, SMFI grew its online community to more than one million followers and deepened engagement around its social good initiatives.

Grounded in the belief that stories can inspire action, SMFI continues to invest in social media as a platform to amplify social good, inspire more Filipinos, and honor the enduring legacy of SM founder Henry “Tatang” Sy Sr., whose vision of creating opportunities for Filipinos continues to resonate across generations. Alongside Facebook, the Foundation maintains an active presence on Instagram and TikTok, extending the reach of its social good stories across multiple platforms and audiences.

The #SpreadingSocialGood Stories Online campaign was designed to bring the Foundation’s mission to life by sharing authentic, people-centered stories on Facebook, a platform used by around 102 million Filipinos to connect, engage, and discover, while complementing these efforts with platform-specific content on Instagram and TikTok. Through dynamic and audience-focused storytelling, the campaign ensured that SM Foundation’s narratives remained visible, relatable, inclusive, and accessible, while encouraging partners and communities to take part in life-changing programs through collaboration.

By combining meaningful storytelling with deliberate digital engagement, SM Foundation shows how social media can go beyond communication and become a catalyst for action, a gateway to opportunities, and a space for nationwide collaboration. With every like, share, and comment, more Filipinos are drawn into a shared mission to uplift communities and spread social good across the country, reflecting Henry “Tatang” Sy Sr.’s philosophy of people helping people.

 

SM Investments Senior Assistant Vice President Victor Chan (third from left), Anne Racoma, SMFI External Programs Manager (second from left), Joy Guevarra, SMFI Manager for Partnerships (third from right), and Darel Colarina, SMFI Senior Program Manager for the Livelihood Program (second from right), receive the Silver Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of the Philippines, recognizing SM Foundation’s #SpreadingSocialGood Stories Online campaign and its effective use of digital storytelling to drive meaningful social impact.

 

SM Investments Senior Assistant Vice President Victor Chan (second from left), Anne Racoma, SM Foundation External Programs Manager (first from left), Joy Guevarra, SM Foundation Manager for Partnerships (second from right), and Darel Colarina, SM Foundation Senior Program Manager for the Livelihood Program (rightmost), receive the Silver Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of the Philippines.

 

The Silver Anvil Award trophy received by SM Foundation for its #SpreadingSocialGood Stories Online campaign, recognizing the Foundation’s effective use of digital storytelling to expand its reach and drive meaningful social impact. (SM Foundation)

Discover HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i: Top ANC Earbuds for Under 5,000 PHP in PH

Manila, Philippines (January 26, 2026) — As the new year begins, so does the drive to focus better, move smarter, and eliminate the noise that gets in the way of everyday goals. For young professionals, modern creatives, and mobile gamers constantly on the move, sound isn’t just in the background; it’s a tool for productivity, expression, and connection.

HUAWEI has started the year strong with the upcoming release of the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i, the strongest ANC earbuds under PHP 5,000. This powerful device sets the standard for mid-range wireless audio, offering advanced noise cancellation, immersive audio, and pro-level call clarity in one sleek, modern package.

Tune Out Distractions, Tune Into What Matters

HUAWEI introduces the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i, engineered to help modern urban users stay immersed wherever the day takes them—from crowded commutes and busy cafés to shared workspaces and even gaming sessions at home. At its core is Intelligent Dynamic ANC 4.0, which delivers an average full-band noise reduction of 28 dB, with a maximum noise cancellation of 55 dB. By focusing on average full-band performance rather than isolated frequency peaks, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i delivers a more natural, consistent noise reduction experience that aligns with how the human ear actually perceives sound.

This advanced system is powered by an ultra-large 8 mm² rear vent and a super-sized air guide cavity, designed to absorb and attenuate external noise more effectively. This delivers faster, more accurate noise detection and immediate cancellation, with a 50% faster ANC response time of under 0.5 seconds, allowing users to step into their own quiet zone without delay. For the first time, HUAWEI introduces an extra small ear tip size, along with standard sizes small, medium, and large, offering a more secure and comfortable fit for users with smaller ears.

A New Dimension of Immersive Sound

Beyond silence, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i transforms how users experience audio. Equipped with a newly added Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), the earbuds support Unlimited Spatial Audio with a six-axis sensor and head tracking, creating a dynamic 3D soundstage that adapts naturally as they move. Unlike traditional spatial audio systems, this feature works independently of device type or content source, ensuring an immersive experience across iOS and Android.

An 11 mm quad-magnet dynamic driver paired with Hi-Res Audio certification complements all this. It produces punchy bass, bright yet delicate treble, and a balanced sound signature suited for music, gaming, videos, and calls alike. Whether locking into a playlist, a meeting, or a game, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i keeps every detail clear and engaging.

Clear Conversations, Seamless Control

Built for an always-connected lifestyle, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i ensures voices stay front and center, even in the most challenging environments. Its advanced six-microphone system, with three microphones in each earbud, can suppress up to 90 dB of ambient noise in crowded environments such as streets and cafés. Combined with a bone-conduction microphone, a Voice Pickup Unit (VPU), and AI call noise reduction, it ensures stable, clear calls in bustling offices, on public transport, or in windy outdoor settings.

Adding to its intuitive design, head-motion-based controls let users answer or reject calls with a simple nod or shake, ideal for moments when hands are full or multitasking is essential. Touch and swipe controls further enhance ease of use, keeping interactions effortless and fluid throughout the day.

Designed for Comfort, Built for Everyday Movement

Comfort is central to the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i experience. Each earbud is lightweight and ergonomically shaped with an improved arc-shaped stem for better grip and stability. The ultra-large vent design minimizes ear pressure during extended wear, while the newly added XS ear tip size ensures a secure and comfortable fit for users with smaller ears.

Rated IP54 for dust and water resistance, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i is ready for daily commutes, workouts, and unexpected weather. With dual-device connectivity and full compatibility with both Android and iOS, the earbuds allow seamless switching between devices, making it easier to balance work, play, and personal time without interruption. With up to 35 hours of battery life with the charging case, fast charging support, and 10-minute charging for up to 4 hours of listening, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i is built to keep pace with modern routines.

As HUAWEI continues to push the boundaries of audio innovation, the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i sets a new benchmark in mid-range wireless earbuds—powerful, immersive, and designed for real-world performance.

Your next audio upgrade will be available in the Philippines on February 2, 2026. Cut through the chaos and stay connected to what matters most. Stay tuned for the HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i.

Visit HUAWEI’s website and official social media pages (Facebook | Instagram) to learn more.

Cyberzone Made E-Waste Disposal Easy: 14,000+ kg Collected Through Strategic Drop-off Points

Good Habits Made Accessible by Cyberzone 

 

Truly embodying the Cyberzone #TechWeLikeZoneWeLove promise, we’re continuing to make responsible tech disposal easy and accessible, right where people already are: inside SM Supermalls.

Cyberzone, in partnership with SM Cares, helps turn e-waste disposal into a simple, safer habit through dedicated drop-off points rolled out nationwide with Smart Communications and PLDT Home, beginning June 2024. 

 

Across participating SM Supermalls, these collection bins give mallgoers a clear, accessible place to drop off old gadgets and broken electronics that are in need of proper disposal. Instead of ending up in drawers or landfills, e-waste can be responsibly handled through a system designed for everyday convenience and better environmental discipline.

14,327 kg Properly Collected and Segregated 

 

Since the partnership began, Cyberzone’s E-Waste Collection Drop Boxes have helped gather 14,327 kg of electronic waste across 89 SM Supermalls, 69 of which are located in the Cyberzone area. This ensures materials are properly collected and segregated for responsible handling. Serving as a reflection on the growing community habit made easier through clear drop-off points and a consistent, accessible mall experience.

“We take pride in being the go-to tech destination for shoppers,” said Patrick Pacla, Vice President for Cyberzone Operations and Marketing at SM Supermalls. “But as gadgets evolve, so does the need to dispose of old electronics responsibly. Everyone has a role to play, and Cyberzone is committed to making it simpler and safer to do the right thing, so tech does not end up harming the planet.”

Sustainability Built to Grow Through Partnerships

Our dedication to responsible tech consumption is built for the long run. Cyberzone and SM Cares, together with Smart Communications and PLDT Home, will continue expanding e-waste collection bins as new malls open. Today, drop-off points are available in Cyberzone branches and SM Supermalls, helping move communities closer to an #SMWasteFreeFuture.

For updates, follow SM Cyberzone on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

And for immersive tech experiences and always something exciting to discover, Cyberzone #TechWeLikeZoneWeLove keeps you on the loop, in-store and online.

Visit www.smcyberzone.com for more information. (SM Supermalls)

Strong MSME Engagement Sets the Stage for SM Supermalls’ 2026 Programs

Nationwide malls drive MSME upskilling, growth, and sustainable enterprise

Under the SM for MSMEs program, MSME Hub owners Alamanga and Rainbow Scoops bring locally made flavors and proudly Filipino products closer to the community—proof that when small businesses are given the right platform, they grow and thrive.

Building on strong MSME momentum in 2025, SM Supermalls is entering 2026 with a renewed and sharped focus on empowering Filipino entrepreneurs, leveraging its nationwide mall network to create tangible growth opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). 

Through its SM for MSMEs program, SM Supermalls empowered 920 new MSMEs and start-ups in 2025, with nearly 10% successfully transitioning into regular mall tenants through kiosks, counters, or in-line stores nationwide. Since its enhanced rollout in March 2024, the program has supported 2,288 unique MSMEs, providing real-world platforms where entrepreneurs can test, refine, and scale their businesses.

In 2025 alone, 28,761 MSME booth activations were mounted nationwide, driven by a growing consumer demand for locally made, experience-led products across food and beverage, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle categories.

Honoring MSME Excellence

2025 MSME awardees and finalists gathered at the SM for MSMEs Wall of Champions with executives from SM Supermalls and the Department of Trade and Industry, celebrating excellence, resilience, and community impact.

The annual SM for MSMEs Wall of Champions recognized outstanding MSME awardees and finalists whose businesses demonstrated exemplified resilience, innovation, and community impact—serving as a tribute to Filipino entrepreneurship and its vital role in nation-building.

“SM is like a big brother to smaller businesses like us,” said Euclid S. Cezar, President and CEO of Famous Belgian Waffle and a 2025 Medium Enterprise finalist. “Being recognized motivates us to expand, innovate, and bring our products to more communities.”

“The private sector has a role to play in enabling the future growth of the MSME sector,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Supporting the grassroots economy is a long-term commitment we intend to uphold.” 

Nation-Building Through Partnerships

DTI and SM Supermalls spotlight the Philippine coconut industry as MSMEs take centerstage—local entrepreneurs proudly showcasing coconut-based products crafted by Filipino hands.

From learning summits and curated markets to large scale trade fairs, SM Supermalls worked closely with key partners including the Department of Trade and Industry, Go Negosyo, media organizations, trade fair organizers, and MSME exhibitors to deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for entrepreneurs nationwide.

Influencers and entrepreneur-creators met fans and shoppers during the VIYLine MSME Caravan at SM City Santa Rosa, bringing digital communities into real-world marketplaces.

(L–R) Cong TV, Viy Cortez, Ivy Cortez, and Rolly Cortez joined MSMEs and mallgoers during the VIYLine MSME Caravan at SM City Santa Rosa. MID PHOTO: During the VIYLine MSME Caravan opening at SM City Santa Rosa, Cong TV surprised the crowd by revealing himself onstage after posing as a cameraman.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry, MSMEs account for 99.63% of businesses and 66.58% of total employment in the Philippines, underscoring their critical role as the backbone of the national economy.

The Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025 energized the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall last July 19.

Major 2025 highlights included the DTI National Food Fair, Negros Trade Fair, Women Strong Trade Fair by WomenBizPH, VIYLine MSME Caravan, and the Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025, which energized the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall with mentorship sessions and business insights, highlighted by Francis Kong’s talk, “Now and Next: The Trends in Business for MSMEs.”

The Go Negosyo MSME Summit 2025 energized the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall last July 19, bringing together entrepreneurs and mentors for inspiring talks, mentorship, and growth opportunities—highlighted by Francis Kong’s session, “Now and Next: The Trends in Business for MSMEs.”

Expanding Opportunities Beyond Metro Manila

The Negros Trade Fair opening day at SMX Aura drew crowds eager to experience Negrense delicacies, craftsmanship, and heritage products.

Leveraging its nationwide footprint, SM Supermalls expanded regional trade fairs and themed marketplaces across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, bringing high-visibility platforms closer to local communities and advancing more inclusive, region-led growth.

Women-led enterprises showcased proudly Filipino products at the Women Strong Trade Fair at SM Megamall, championing collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth.

Kicking Off 2026 With Strong MSME Partnerships

To start 2026, SM Supermalls—together with government agencies, media partners, and trade fair organizers, will host and support a new slate of MSM focused events.

 

DTI Region IV-A Coco Festival Food Fair

January 14–20, 2026 | SM City San Pablo – Featuring coconut-based products and local delicacies from MSMEs in Region IV-A.

 

Philstar Nakakalokal Bazaar

January 16–18| SM Seaside City Cebu – Showcasing homegrown food, fashion, crafts, and lifestyle brands from the Visayas and the Cordillera region, highlighting locally made MSME products.

The Silk Events Bazaar (upcoming)

January 28–February 10, 2026 | SM La Union – A curated lifestyle and artisan market offering MSMEs extended exposure in a tourism-driven destination.

As SM Supermalls moves into 2026, SM for MSMEs continues to evolve as a scalable growth platform—transforming participation into opportunity, and opportunity into sustainable enterprise for Filipino entrepreneurs nationwide. (SM Supermalls)

About SM Supermalls – MSMEs

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 89 malls nationwide—continues to maximize the MSME experience by creating opportunities that are relevant, inclusive, and built around what Filipino entrepreneurs need most. As the country’s most loved and preferred marketplace for MSMEs, SM champions Filipino entrepreneurship by empowering businesses across different stages and sectors—supporting every MSME tribe through market access, visibility, mentorship, and sustainable growth. By connecting communities, showcasing homegrown talent, and fueling innovation, SM helps small businesses thrive in ways that feel personal, purposeful, and impactful. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today.