Communities Unite at R.T. Lim Boulevard for SM-Led Coastal Cleanup Drive

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 07 June 2026 — Demonstrating a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and ocean conservation, SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga successfully led a large-scale Coastal Cleanup Drive on June 7 along R.T. Lim Boulevard in celebration of World Oceans Day, bringing together communities, government agencies, academic institutions, and environmental advocates in a united effort to protect the city's coastal ecosystem.

A total of 925 volunteers participated in the activity, collecting 988.5 kilograms of waste from the shoreline. The initiative highlighted the power of collective action in addressing marine pollution and preserving the health of local waterways.

The cleanup was conducted in partnership with the City Government of Zamboanga and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) – Zamboanga City, reinforcing a shared vision of creating cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable communities.

The coastal cleanup drew enthusiastic participation from volunteers representing government offices, educational institutions, civic groups, uniformed personnel, and private organizations. United by a common goal of environmental protection, participants worked hand in hand to help preserve the city's coastline, showcasing the spirit of volunteerism and collective responsibility in caring for the oceans and the environment.

The event commenced with a brief orientation emphasizing proper waste segregation, volunteer safety, and the importance of protecting marine environments. Participants then spread across designated cleanup zones, collecting plastic waste, discarded packaging materials, bottles, fishing debris, and other pollutants that threaten marine biodiversity and coastal communities.

“This initiative reflects the bayanihan spirit that unites our communities in caring for the environment,” said Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez. “By working together, we not only clean our coastlines but also raise awareness about the critical role each individual plays in protecting our oceans for future generations.”

The Coastal Cleanup Drive forms part of the SM Green Movement, SM Supermalls' long-term sustainability platform that encourages environmental responsibility through programs focused on waste management, climate action, resource conservation, and community engagement.

Together, SM City Mindpro, SM City Zamboanga, and its partners reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding coastal resources and advancing sustainable practices that contribute to the well-being of present and future generations.

###

About SM Green Movement

Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come.

SM Zamboanga Malls Bring the Spirit of Bayanihan in Bolong

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 05 June 2026 – Demonstrating its commitment to education and community development, SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga joined Brigada Eskwela 2026 through a meaningful outreach activity at Mangga Elementary School in Bolong, bringing employee-volunteers and security personnel together to help prepare the school for the opening of classes.

With sleeves rolled up and hearts dedicated to service, volunteers from both SM malls worked side by side with teachers and school personnel, embodying the true spirit of bayanihan. The volunteers participated in various school improvement activities, helping create a cleaner, safer, and more conducive learning environment for students.

As part of the initiative, SM Zamboanga malls also turned over essential school materials, including books, paints, electric fans, and cleaning supplies, to support the school's preparations for the upcoming academic year. The activity reflects SM's continued commitment to empowering communities and supporting quality education through volunteerism and meaningful partnerships.

“Education is a powerful tool for building stronger communities. Through this activity, we are given the opportunity to contribute in our own way by helping create a better learning environment for our students,” said Jodie Durens, SM City Zamboanga Assistant Mall Manager.

More than the physical improvements made during the activity, this initiative serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility shared by stakeholders in nurturing the next generation. Through volunteerism and collaboration, SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga continue to champion initiatives that create positive and lasting impacts in the communities it serves and remain steadfast in supporting programs that uplift education, strengthen communities, and inspire the spirit of service among its employees and partners.

###

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

SM Foundation Turns Over Rehabilitated Health Center in Zamboanga City

(L-R): Dr. Rhodora Rivera of Edwin Andrews Air Base, District Medical Director Dr. Rossana Arquiza, Niña Jean Pagotaisidro representing Congressman Jerry Perez, City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Miravite, Putik Barangay Chairman Geronimo Lao, Kaiser Adan Olaso representing City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso, SM Foundation Executive Director for Health and Medical Programs Ms. Connie Angeles, SM Foundation Executive Director for Education Programs Ms. Ms. Linda Atayde, and SM City Mindpro Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

 

Zamboanga City – SM Foundation formally turned over the newly rehabilitated Putik Health Center to the Zamboanga City government, reinforcing its commitment to accessible and quality primary healthcare for residents of Barangay Putik.

 

Serving a population of 23,247 as of 2025, the health center has been a vital frontline facility since the early 1990s. Its rehabilitation upgrades the facility to better deliver consultations, treatment, free medicines when available, immunization, nutrition programs, maternal and family planning services, tuberculosis treatment, non-communicable disease monitoring, and infectious disease surveillance.

 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony highlighted strong public-private partnership, with representatives of City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso and Congressman Jerry Perez in attendance, alongside SM Foundation executives led by Ms. Connie Angeles, Executive Director for Health and Medical Programs, and Ms. Linda Atayde, Executive Director for Education Programs. They were joined by SM City Mindpro Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Miravite, District Medical Director Dr. Rossana Arquiza, Dr. Rhodora Rivera of Edwin Andrews Air Base, and Barangay Chairman Geronimo Lao.

 

During the ceremony, Angeles shared that the facility is the 226th SM Foundation Wellness Center and the 91st community health center supported nationwide. She emphasized that beyond upgrading infrastructure, the initiative aims to improve healthcare delivery and support health workers, with continued maintenance assistance from SM Foundation and SM malls in Zamboanga.

 

The turnover forms part of SM Foundation’s Health and Medical Program, which has supported more than 200 health centers nationwide, benefiting over seven million patients. For Barangay Putik, the renewed facility stands as a symbol of strengthened partnership and a continued commitment to community health in Zamboanga City.

SM City Mindpro Brings Smiles to Over 400 Learners Through “Besties of Joy” Distribution

True to its commitment of spreading joy and making a meaningful difference in the community, SM City Mindpro recently distributed Besties of Joy plush toys to more than 400 learners from Divisoria Elementary School, Boalan Elementary School, and Zambowood Elementary School.

The heartwarming activity was made possible through the efforts of employee-volunteers from SM Zamboanga malls, who personally turned over the plushies to the learners. The Besties of Joy—soft, cuddly companions—were warmly received by the young students, bringing smiles, excitement, and moments of happiness inside their classrooms.

This initiative forms part of SM’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the well-being of children and supporting communities through simple yet impactful acts of kindness. By sharing these plush toys, SM aims to inspire joy, comfort, and hope among learners, reminding them that they are valued and cared for.

 

“We believe that even the smallest gestures can create a big impact, especially for children. Through the Besties of Joy, we hope to brighten their day and create lasting, positive memories,” said Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, SM City Mindpro Mall Manager.

The distribution underscores SM’s culture of volunteerism, with employees actively taking part in outreach activities that extend beyond the mall and into the heart of the community. More than just a gift-giving activity, the initiative reflects SM’s dedication to fostering meaningful connections and uplifting lives—one smile at a time.

 

Through programs like Besties of Joy, SM City Mindpro continues to champion compassion, generosity, and shared happiness, reinforcing its role not only as a lifestyle destination but also as a partner in community-building.

SM City Mindpro shares “ChriSMiles” with indigent learners of Edwin Andrews Air Base Elementary School

 

Living up to the true spirit of Christmas, SM City Mindpro brought joy and hope to 50 indigent learners of Edwin Andrews Airbase Elementary School through a food pack distribution under “ChriSMiles,” SM’s annual gift-giving initiative for underserved communities during the Christmas season.

The outreach activity was led by SM Zamboanga malls’ employee-volunteers, headed by the Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, who personally led the turnover of food packs to the beneficiaries. The initiative was further strengthened by the participation of Philippine Air Force – Air Combat Command Team led by Major Jeremy Basille Remigia II, highlighting a shared commitment to service, compassion, and community partnership.

Through ChriSMiles, SM City Mindpro continues to spread holiday cheer beyond the mall by reaching out to communities in need. Each food pack was prepared to provide meaningful support to the learners and their families, while also reinforcing the values of generosity and inclusivity that define the Christmas season.

 

“This initiative reflects our desire to share hope and joy, especially with our indigent learners, who deserve to feel the warmth of the season,” Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez shared. “Through ChriSMiles, we are reminded that even simple acts of kindness can make a lasting impact.”

 

The ChriSMiles activity forms part of SM’s continuing corporate social responsibility efforts, aligned with its commitment to uplift communities and promote inclusive growth. By mobilizing employee-volunteers and collaborating with partner organizations, SM City Mindpro remains dedicated to creating meaningful experiences that bring smiles to communities it serves.

SM Supermalls and VFS Global Seal Partnership to Bring Visa and Travel Services Closer to Filipinos

SM Supermalls and VFS Global have formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to bring the first world-class visa and travel documentation services directly to select SM malls—offering Filipinos unprecedented convenience, accessibility, and a more seamless customer experience.

Executives Shaking Hands. SM Supermalls and VFS Global leaders seal the partnership with a handshake during the MOA Signing at SM Supermalls Headquarters. Left to Right: Mr. Royston Cabunag, SM Supermalls AVP for Government Services Express, Mr. Steven Tan, SM Supermalls President, Mr. Atul Lall, VFS Global Regional Head for North Asia and Mr. Syed Shahen Shah, VFS Global Country Manager for Brunei and the Philippines.

The partnership enables VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure mobility for governments and citizens, operating 3,987 application centres across 165 countries, to now offer visa applications, biometrics, appointment scheduling, and passport-related services inside SM malls. With SM’s nationwide network of 89 malls and over 5.2 million daily visitors, these services instantly become more accessible to millions of Filipinos.

SM Supermalls and VFS Global executives officially sign the Memorandum of Agreement, marking a new partnership that brings visa and travel services closer to Filipinos.

During his welcome remarks, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan emphasized how the collaboration elevates SM’s commitment to serving communities beyond traditional retail. “Our malls have evolved into trusted community spaces where every day needs are met with ease and dignity. This partnership with VFS Global brings essential travel and documentation services right where people already are—inside their neighborhood SM mall. By hosting VFS Global service centers, we’re not only simplifying travel requirements, but we’re further strengthening SM’s role as a hub for convenience, public service, and meaningful access. This collaboration opens new doors for Filipinos and brings world-class service even more within reach.”

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan highlights the company’s commitment to service accessibility and customer convenience as he and VFS Global executives discuss the upcoming rollout of VFS service centers in SM malls.

This initiative reflects SM’s commitment to bringing essential services closer to the public by transforming malls into centralized hubs for government, travel, and community-based services. With this first-of-its-kind rollout, SM and VFS Global continue to create opportunities that make everyday life easier, more efficient, and more empowering for Filipino families.

VFS Global Regional Head for North Asia, Mr. Atul Dushyant Lall, delivers his speech with excitement and optimism, sharing how the partnership will make travel documentation easier and more accessible for Filipinos.

Atul Lall, Regional Head - North Asia, VFS Global, said, “It’s a great honour for VFS Global to partner with select SM malls across the Philippines offering our fellow Filipino customers a seamless application submission experience. VFS Global remains committed to putting customers first, ensuring the easiest, smoothest visa application experience possible. Through continuous innovation and advanced technology, we simplify processes, enhance security, and improve convenience. By partnering with world-class companies, we bring the best global expertise together to deliver reliable, efficient, and future-ready solutions for governments and travelers worldwide.”

Executives from SM Supermalls and VFS Global gather for a commemorative photo following the signing ceremony, celebrating a strategic partnership aimed at making travel documentation simpler and more accessible for the public.

About SM Supermalls Government Services

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls strengthens its commitment to public service through the Government Service Express (GSE) program. GSE brings essential government transactions closer to communities by hosting key agencies in one-stop hubs nationwide—from ID applications and permits to registrations and renewals. By building strong partnerships with institutions and expanding access across its mall network, SM ensures services remain convenient, safe, inclusive, and accessible for every Filipino.

About VFS Global

As the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure mobility for governments and citizens, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.

With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 70 client governments.  Operating over 3,900 Application Centres in 165 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 519 million transactions* since 2001.

Headquartered in Zurich and Dubai and majority owned through investment funds managed by Blackstone Inc, along with minority stakeholders including Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation. (SM Supermalls)