Ube Takes Spotlight at SM Supermalls’ Ube Nation

From classic Filipino desserts to inventive ube-inspired treats, explore a vibrant lineup of must-try purple yam creations at SM Supermalls nationwide. 

From indulgent ube pastries to refreshing café creations, discover bold purple yam flavors and exciting new cravings in every bite.

MANILA, Philippines, 18 May 2026 — Rich, vibrant, and undeniably Filipino, ube has evolved from a local favorite into a global flavor obsession, winning over foodies worldwide with its signature sweetness, eye-catching purple hue, and endless versatility. From nostalgic merienda staples to trendy café drinks and viral desserts, the beloved purple yam continues to dominate cravings across generations.

At your most-loved SM Supermalls, ube is having its moment as a main character, with must-try treats and creative twists popping up in cafés, bakeries, and dessert spots nationwide. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting, indulgent, or TikTok-worthy, there’s an ube discovery waiting on your next Gala To The Max food crawl.

Sweet, Creamy, and Decadent

Sweet, creamy, and decadent—ube takes the spotlight at SM Supermalls’ Ube Nation with beautifully crafted cakes, indulgent pastries, and café-inspired desserts perfect for every kind of craving.

For dessert lovers, SM malls across the country are serving up next-level ube creations that turn the iconic Filipino flavor into irresistible sweet treats perfect for celebrations, catch-ups, or everyday cravings.

At SM Mall of Asia, shoppers can satisfy their sweet tooth with the Ube Velvet Donut from Founder’s Donut, the soft and dreamy Ube Cloud Cake from Hearts and Bells, and the indulgent Ube Cloud Cream Cake from Butternut Bakery. Dessert cafés also serve up Instagram-worthy twists like the Ube Parmesan Basque Cake from Paris Baguette and Ube Tarts from After Tree Cafe.

From cookies and cakes to crinkles packed with flavor, these ube-inspired creations at SM Supermalls bring together comforting Filipino flavors and playful modern twists in every bite.

At SM North EDSA, dessert lovers can discover playful flavor combos from Fickle Cookies, including the Ube’t Queso Cookie, Ube Coffee Cookie, and Browned Butter Ube Halaya Cookie.

Meanwhile, in SM City Baguio, longtime favorites Vizco’s and Everything Nice continue to serve comforting ube classics that keep locals and tourists coming back for more.

Filipino Favorites, Reimagined

Classic Filipino merienda favorites get a delicious purple twist at SM Supermalls, with comforting ube treats that blend nostalgia, sweetness, and everyday indulgence.

Classic Filipino snacks and merienda staples are getting a delicious glow-up with ube-inspired twists that blend nostalgia with modern flavors.

At SM City Santa Rosa, Ambos offers freshly baked Ube Pandesal that’s perfect for breakfast, merienda, or a quick snack run.

Meanwhile, at SM City Fairview, comforting Filipino flavors meet chocolatey indulgence with the rich Ube Champorado from Mom's Ube & Triple Chocolate Champorado.

At SM City Clark, beloved Kapampangan favorites shine with classic Ube Halaya from Susie’s Cuisine and Nathaniel’s.

From indulgent ube cakes to cheesy pastries and creamy milkshakes, these colorful creations at SM Supermalls blend comforting Filipino flavors with modern dessert indulgence.

Over at SM City Pampanga, diners can enjoy both traditional and modern ube treats, from the rich Ube Cake of The Beanery to the soft and buttery Ube Spanish Bread from Hola.

In Mindanao, Yucca at SM City Davao serves up ultimate merienda cravings with its indulgent Ube Ensaymada, Ube Cheeserolls, and refreshing Ube Queso Milkshake.

Cool and Refreshing Ube Discoveries

Cool down with refreshing ube discoveries at SM Supermalls, from creamy ice cream and rich gelato to vibrant café drinks that make every sip and scoop a sweet summer treat.

For those looking to beat the heat, cafés and dessert spots are serving refreshing ube drinks, shakes, and frozen treats that are perfect for summer hangouts and spontaneous dessert dates.

At SM Seaside City Cebu, diners can cool down with creamy Ube Ice Cream from Bohol Bee Farm and MyChoice, or try the Ube Purple Yam with Cheese gelato from Giardini Gelato. Halo-halo lovers can also enjoy refreshing ube-filled treats from MyJoy and Chikaan.

Meanwhile, at SM City Cebu, The Patio Coffee Club puts a trendy spin on café favorites with its earthy, creamy Ube Matcha Latte and a rich Ube Leche Flan Cake.

Bite-Sized Ube Treats and Pasalubong Finds

Bite-sized but packed with flavor, these ube treats and pasalubong finds at SM Supermalls offer sweet purple yam goodness perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying on the go.

For snack lovers and pasalubong hunters, specialty stores are packed with bite-sized ube goodies perfect for gifting—or keeping all to yourself.

At SM Megamall, Artisan Emporium offers a wide variety of ube treats, including Ube Barquillos, Ube Mallows, Ube Lengua, and Ube Pastillas. Dessert fans can also try the Ube Cream Macarons from Macarons Macarons and Merry Moo's premium ube ice cream flavors.

From comforting classics to bold new café creations, ube continues to reinvent Filipino flavors in exciting and delicious ways. Whether you’re planning a dessert crawl, merienda date, or weekend food trip, your next ube obsession might just be waiting at SM Supermalls.

SM Seaside City Cebu Recognized as PAWS Certified Pet-Friendly Mall

Creating experiences that are truly all for you, including your furry companions, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has officially conferred SM Seaside City Cebu the Certified Pet-Friendly Seal. The recognition highlights the mall’s dedication to providing a safe, respectful, and genuinely welcoming environment for pets of all breeds and sizes.

SM Seaside continues to max out the malling experience by making everyday moments more enjoyable and accessible for pet owners and animal lovers alike. It reinforces its commitment to creating spaces and experiences thoughtfully designed for the community—including beloved companion animals.

As part of the certification process, PAWS carried out evaluations by sending undercover volunteers accompanied by aspins (native dogs) to act as “secret shoppers” in assessing the mall’s pet-friendly standards, to ensure that the mall upholds pet-friendly standards rooted in inclusivity, safety, and responsible pet interaction. The recognition also reflects the collective effort of both mall management and participating tenants in fostering a more compassionate and pet-welcoming environment.

During the formal conferment on May 7, 2026, key representatives from both organizations were present. Attending on behalf of PAWS were Directors Atty. Anna Cabrera and Ms. Cristina Martinez. They were joined by SM Seaside executives led by Antonio del Prado, Regional Operations Head; Renato Leduna Jr., Regional Public Relations Head; and Percelyn Irizari, Assistant Mall Manager, underscoring a shared commitment to elevating pet-friendly standards in the retail and lifestyle space.

Guests visiting SM Seaside can enjoy bonding moments with their pets across several certified pet-friendly dining establishments throughout the mall, including A Little Tea, Auntie Anne’s, Bahn Mi Kitchen, BonChon, Bo’s Coffee, Botejyu, Cabalen, Chili’s, Chowking, Classic Savory, Coffee Bay, Dotonbori Ramen, Giardino Gelato, Hawker Chan, Hukad, KFC, Kuya J Restaurant, Kuzina Guadalupe, Lemon Grass, Leylam Deluxe, Lugang Cafe, Max’s Restaurant, Mesa Filipino Moderne, Sizzling City, The Buzzz Cafe, The Spud Diner, Tim Ho Wan, Tokyo Joe Japanese Fastfood, Tokyo Tokyo, YAYOI, and Zubuchon.

Whether enjoying a stroll, dining out, or simply spending quality time together, fur parents can truly make every gala moment count at SM Seaside—where memorable experiences are made all for you.

SM Seaside Cebu Arena on track for June 2026 opening

An architect’s vision of the SM Seaside Cebu Arena. 

SM Seaside Cebu Arena on track for June 2026 opening SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is set to open its second arena, the SM Seaside Cebu Arena, in June 2026. The large-scale venue is designed to meet global standards for live entertainment, sports and major events.

 “The enduring success of SM MOA Arena shows the strong demand for world-class entertainment venues, so we are bringing the same proven model to Cebu,” said Jeffrey C. Lim, President of SM Prime. “We believe Cebu is a key growth center, and this arena will help attract major events, support tourism and create more economic activity for the region.” 

With seven storeys and a capacity of up to 25,000 people, SM Seaside Cebu Arena will be one of the largest indoor arenas in the Philippines. 

Its flexible event bowl allows seamless configuration for both large-scale concerts and more intimate events, giving promoters greater versatility in staging productions. 

The SM Seaside Cebu Arena will feature one of the most advanced center-hung displays in the country, supported by immersive LED ribbon boards that deliver a 360-degree viewing experience. These are complemented by high-capacity digital infrastructure, including 5G connectivity, enabling real-time engagement and enhanced production capabilities for both organizers and audiences. 

Dedicated premium suites are integrated into the design to cater to corporate partners and elevate the overall hospitality offering. Premier Suites to bring luxury to live entertainment in Cebu. SM Seaside Cebu Arena was also designed to support both front-of-house and backof-house requirements for major productions. A practice court is available for performers, while multi-functional event spaces can be used as holding areas, breakout rooms or venues for smaller private events. 

Premier Suites to bring luxury to live entertainment in Cebu. 

Located within the SM Seaside Complex, the arena benefits from direct access to retail, hospitality and transport infrastructure, creating a seamless ecosystem for visitors and event organizers. 

Its proximity to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and surrounding lifestyle developments strengthens its appeal as a regional destination for international acts and large gatherings. 

Seaside Cebu Arena has been securing advance bookings since late last year, with BINI on July 11, IV of Spades on July 18, TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan on September 5 and LANY on November 6 and 12 already confirmed for this year.

Colimited Philippines Becomes Cebu City’s First Thai Restaurant to Receive the Prestigious Thai SELECT Award 2026

Colimited Philippines proudly announces that it has been awarded the prestigious Thai SELECT certification, becoming the first Thai restaurant in Cebu City to receive this distinction. The Thai SELECT award is granted by the Department of International Trade Promotion under the Ministry of Commerce Thailand, recognizing the authenticity and quality of Thai cuisine across the world.

To commemorate this milestone, Ms. Kirida Bhaopichitr, Vice Minister for Commerce, together with her delegation, visited Colimited Philippines, located at SM Seaside City Cebu, on May 7, 2026, to officially present the Thai SELECT award. The visit included an awarding ceremony and a photo session. 

Thai SELECT is a globally recognized certification that assures diners of genuine Thai flavors with premium cooking techniques, and high-quality ingredients to strengthen the brand's core value — Premium Thai Street Food.

Operated under the partnership with Thailand’s Co-Rungrueng Group, an established restaurant operator with three hot-spot locations in Bangkok, Thailand. The brand upholds Thai street-food recipes, an elevated setting and quality standards of both ingredients and cooking techniques.

“We are deeply honored to receive the Thai SELECT certification. This recognition reflects our dedication to preserving the true essence of Thai cuisine and bringing it to the Cebuano community,” said a Colimited executive.

The awarding ceremony marks an important step in strengthening cultural and culinary ties between Thailand and the Philippines, while further elevating Cebu City as a destination for world-class dining experiences.

SM J Mall Hosts A.S. Fortuna Exhibit in Mandaue City, Highlighting Local Heritage and History

In time for the annual A.S. Fortuna Day on May 3, the City Government of Mandaue formally opened the A.S. Fortuna Exhibit at the Kyureto Art Space of SM J Mall—an evocative tribute to the life and legacy of former mayor Alejandro Seno Fortuna. The exhibit is one of the highlights of the city’s fiesta celebrations, held as part of Mandaue City’s Mid-Year Cultural Summit 2026.

Fortuna, remembered as the “Martyr Mayor of Mandaue,” served the city from 1940 through the war years. His leadership came at a defining period in Philippine history, marked by courage and service amid uncertainty. In 1945, he and his wife were killed by the Japanese kempeitai—an event that cemented his place in the city’s history as a symbol of sacrifice and resilience.

The choice of venue lends the exhibit a deeper resonance. Situated along A.S. Fortuna Street, SM J Mall occupies a space intrinsically tied to the legacy it now helps commemorate. In this setting, the exhibit becomes more than a historical display—it transforms into a living dialogue between past and present, where everyday spaces evolve into platforms for remembrance and reflection.

Present at the exhibit’s ribbon-cutting on May 2 were members of the Mandaue City Council: Councilor Atty. Joel Seno, Chair of the Mid-Year Cultural Summit 2026; Councilor Atty. Carlo Fortuna, grandson of the late mayor Alejandro Seno Fortuna; Councilor Eugene Andaya; and Councilor Kevin Cabahug. Marcelyn Rubica, Assistant Mall Manager of SM J Mall, was also present during the ceremony. Marissa Fernan, Vice President of SM Prime Holdings, also graced the exhibit, reflecting SM’s sustained commitment to advancing community engagement and cultural preservation. 

Through a thoughtful curation of archival materials, narratives, and commemorative pieces, the exhibit invites Mandauehanons and visitors alike to engage with the city’s roots and gain a renewed appreciation for the figure whose name has become part of its urban landscape.

Open to the public until May 30, the A.S. Fortuna Exhibit stands as both a cultural offering and a testament to what can be achieved when civic vision and private support come together to preserve and celebrate local heritage.

Max Out the Drama and Style at SM Cinema with the Devil Wears Prada 2, Now showing

The Devil Wears Prada 2 has arrived in SM Cinema, inviting audiences back into the sharp, stylish, and high-stakes world of fashion publishing in a long-awaited continuation of the iconic story. The sequel reunites its celebrated cast, led by Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt.

During its opening week, SM J Mall transformed into a Fashion Avenue at The Atrium. The space was designed as a walk-through fashion showcase that highlights local creativity and craftsmanship, featuring bold red statement pieces by Clothes For Life and the Fashion Institute of Design & Arts Cebu. More than an exhibit, Fashion Avenue is a living visual experience where mallgoers can immerse themselves in fashion storytelling, reflecting the film’s themes of transformation, confidence, and self-expression. Fashion Avenue remains open to the public until May 25, 2026.

An exclusive private screening at SM J Mall, attended by media and lifestyle guests, marked the film’s glamorous return to the big screen. For those looking to elevate the viewing experience further, SM Cinema’s Director’s Club is also available for private screenings, offering a more intimate, luxe cinema setting designed for elevated comfort—perfect for group gatherings, events, or simply indulging in cinema at its most refined.

Experience the glamour, drama, and iconic storytelling of The Devil Wears Prada 2 on the big screen at SM Cinema. Tickets are now available through SM Cinema’s official website at smcinema.com or the SM Cinema App, and at SM Cinema ticket booths.

Angels Walk for Autism 2026 Draws Over 4,000 Participants at SM Seaside City Cebu

A powerful show of unity and inclusion filled SM Seaside City Cebu on April 26, 2026, as 4,000 advocates, families, and individuals on the autism spectrum came together for Angels Walk for Autism 2026.

Organized by the Autism Society Philippines - Cebu Chapter in partnership with SM Cares and SM Supermalls, the annual event continues to serve as a meaningful platform to celebrate neurodiversity and promote awareness, acceptance, and inclusion for the autism community.

The walk commenced at the Mountain Wing Atrium, passed through areas of the mall, and concluded at the Cube Wing Atrium, where a heartfelt program brought participants together in shared purpose and celebration.

Gracing the program was Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, who reaffirmed the city’s commitment to supporting the autism community. In his message, he emphasized that the local government will continue taking action through strengthened programs, partnerships, and services for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. 

Adding to the day’s meaningful moments, SM Seaside distributed Besties of Joy to children on the autism spectrum, bringing smiles and comfort to participating families.

Angels Walk for Autism was held simultaneously in key locations nationwide, bringing together communities in a unified call for inclusion. In Cebu, participants gathered at SM Seaside, while thousands also assembled at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, which served as the main venue of the national event. Across these venues, the event featured performances and talent showcases from individuals on the autism spectrum and their allies—highlighting their strengths and reinforcing the importance of platforms that champion inclusivity.

As a long-standing partner of the Autism Society Philippines, SM Supermalls remains committed to building inclusive environments for all of you. Through initiatives under SM Cares’ Program on Persons with Disabilities, SM Seaside City Cebu continues to open its spaces through efforts such as the Angels Walk for Autism, ensuring that every individual feels seen, supported, and valued. 

For more information on SM Cares’ programs and initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

SM Seaside Cebu Ice Skating Rink Reopens with New Look, Honors Filipino Skating Champions

 SM Skating Seaside Cebu reopens with fresh looks, honors Filipino skating champions

Revitalized rink offers a cooler, more vibrant experience while bringing together a growing skating community

Step into a cooler experience at SM Skating Seaside Cebu. With its refreshed look and inviting design, it’s your go-to spot to skate, connect, and make the most of every moment.

CEBU, Philippines, 13th April 2026 – A fresh and more exciting skating experience awaits as SM Skating at SM Seaside City Cebu officially reopens to the public. Following its temporary closure for upgrades, the newly improved rink now welcomes guests with refreshed facilities, a brighter ambiance, and new maxed-out experiences that make every visit more engaging, reinforcing its role as a space where winning begins.

Guests are greeted by a newly designed entrance arch featuring cool, ice-inspired elements that create a striking, inviting first impression. Inside, the rink has been refreshed with a cleaner, brighter look, offering a more enjoyable space for both beginners trying skating for the first time and experienced skaters looking to glide with ease.

SM Skating Seaside Cebu brings people together on the ice, creating shared moments, new memories, and a growing community where every glide is a step forward.

More than just a place to skate, SM Skating remains where many first steps on ice begin. From casual visitors to aspiring athletes, it offers a space where people can learn, improve, and grow, whether for fun or to compete on a bigger stage.

A highlight of the reopening is the Wall of Champions, a dedicated space honoring Filipino skaters who have excelled in major competitions and proudly represented the country on the international stage. It serves as both a tribute and a reminder that every champion starts somewhere.

The Wall of Champions at SM Skating Seaside Cebu celebrates Filipino skating excellence, 

designed to inspire more people to learn, play, and fall in love with the sport.

“At SM, we want more Filipinos to experience skating, not just for fun, but as something they can grow in,” said Joseph Francis Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Skating. “At the same time, we’re proud to recognize the athletes who have brought honor to the country and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.”

Turning the Rink into a Celebration

Bringing the energy of Gala to the Max, the reopening transformed the rink into a lively celebration with a Disco on Ice experience. Guests enjoyed a vibrant mix of music, lights, and sounds, along with low-fog effects, creating a fun, immersive atmosphere that turned every glide into a moment worth sharing.

A special on-ice performance by skilled skaters heightened the excitement, drawing in the crowd and showcasing the sport's artistry. The performance created a shared experience for families, friends, and skating enthusiasts, highlighting SM Skating's continued ability to bring communities together.

Where Winning Begins

Every champion starts somewhere. With guidance from certified coaches, beginners take their first steps through SM Skating Academy as they build confidence one glide at a time.

For those ready to take skating beyond leisure, guests can enroll in the SM Skating Academy’s Learn to Skate Program, developed in partnership with the Philippine Skating Union (PHSU).

The program offers structured, professionally guided lessons led by certified coaches that introduce skaters of all ages to the fundamentals in a safe and supportive environment. With a step-by-step progression from beginner basics to essential techniques, it serves as the official pathway for those looking to build confidence, improve their skills, and eventually pursue higher-level or competitive skating.

Grace, power, and passion on full display. SM Skating Seaside Cebu sets the stage for performances that inspire the next generation of skaters.

As part of its opening-week offerings, your most-loved mall, SM, is also giving guests a free 30-minute skating lesson—perfect for beginners who want to take their first glide on the ice and start their skating journey.

Ready for a plot twist? Discover unexpected finds across the Visayas at SM Supermalls.

 

Not everything goes according to script, but honestly, that’s where the best parts can happen.

It’s all twist after twist, one minute you’re in a regular run, the next you’ve stumbled on something you didn’t expect, and suddenly it’s the highlight of your day. The kind you didn’t plan for, but made the detour oh-so-worth-it.

So if you’re up for a little scene switch, there’s always something waiting to surprise you at SM Supermalls in Visayas, where new and upcoming spots bring unexpected finds, exciting firsts, and moments that are all for you.

A Sudden Drip Addition

Just when everything’s right on track, a new name enters the mix to change the scene. Here comes the first-ever Salomon in Cebu, now open at the 2nd Level of SM J Mall–bringing in performance-driven design that moves seamlessly between function and everyday wear, adding a fresh, unexpected edge to your usual lineup. 

A Tasty Surprise 

Right when you think you’ve seen it all, something new slips in and changes the lineup. Mesa will soon return to Bacolod at the newly built block of SM City Bacolod–bringing its signature take on Filipino favorites with its crisp and flavorful Crispy Pork Belly or its fresh, savory Tinapa Roll.

This is your cue to go off script and explore, because the best things usually show themselves when you didn’t make plans to find it. Discover more firsts and experiences only here at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls–All For You.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.