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.

Feed Your Empty PET Bottles into SM’s New Green Recycling Machines

GR Machines deployed in SM Malls nationwide set to make recycling easy, fun, and rewarding

Your empty PET bottles have somewhere better to go than landfills—and SM is taking them there.

 

Through the newly-deployed Green Recycling Machines (GR Machines), SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) uses the nationwide reach of SM Supermalls to make sustainable action easy, accessible, and rewarding for mallgoers all over the country.

“The GR Machines enrich the SM Group’s existing waste management efforts under the SM Green Movement,” said SM Supermalls President, Steven Tan. “Through the deployment of these machines, we hope to collaborate with our customers in caring for the environment by helping recycle PET bottles whenever they enter their most loved SM Supermalls.”

Each GR Machine can be operated with ease by any user and can accept PET bottles up to two liters. Together, the GR Machines nationwide can collectively hold up to 5,000 bottles in one collection cycle which are compressed in-machine. The compressed PET blocks are then collected and given a second life by SM’s hauling partner Sentinel which transforms the blocks into reusable items such as food trays.

Little makes much: Preserving the environment one diverted bottle at a time

According to the World Bank, the Philippines leaks more than 300 million metric tons of plastic waste into the sea annually—equivalent to around 9 percent of its improperly handled plastic waste. The Philippines was also noted as one of East Asia and the Pacific region’s top contributors to ocean plastic pollution.

 

Recognizing that sustainability and protecting the environment is beyond the effort of one entity, SM has leveraged its presence nationwide through its properties to engage its customers and surrounding communities in maximizing the collection of recyclables especially plastics. Through SM Cares, its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM empowers communities to adopting sustainable practices through simple and accessible ways to take part in protecting the environment. Arresting the growing issue on pollution, the SM Group has enhanced waste segregation efforts to increase its collection and diversion of plastics from the environment since 2007 with its pioneer program, the Trash to Cash recycling market.

 

SM Group’s Trash to Cash initiative was organized by SM Cares as the pilot community program that encouraged customers to segregate recyclables like metal, paper, and plastic and exchange these for cash on a monthly basis. SM Supermalls also followed up this effort with the launch of two Reverse Vending Machines in SM Mall of Asia and SM Megamall which empowered customers to segregate aluminum cans and empty PETs in exchange for discounts on sports and leisure attractions. On top of these, SM also hosts nationwide coastal clean-up drives annually through the strength and effort of its workforce volunteers.

With the latest in mobile recycling technology, SM’s GR Machines encourage customers to turn good intentions into daily environmentally-conscious actions in three easy steps:

1. Feed any PET bottle up to 2 liters into the machine
2. Confirm your deposit by pressing the prompt on the screen
3. Await your reward

“This is just a glimpse into how SM aims to enrich the Circular Economy through the elevated role we play in integrating seamless waste management efforts, all for Filipinos. We are hopeful that with the addition of the SM GR Machines, our continued partnership with our customers in protecting the environment yields a more sustainable future” said Tan.

Customers can start depositing their plastic bottles in SM GR Machines across the following malls: SM North EDSA, SM City San Lazaro, SM Megamall, SM The Podium, SM Aura, SM Southmall, SM Mall of Asia, S’Maison, SM Seaside City Cebu and SM Lanang. (SM PRIME)

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving for a new era shaped by 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 89 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.

About SM Green Movement

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, committed to creating sustainable, innovative, and inclusive spaces for Filipinos. Guided by its vision of building a better future, SM Prime develops malls, residences, offices, hotels, and leisure properties that support the growth of communities across the Philippines.

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.

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)

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 Cares Delivers Over 70,000 Books to Library Communities Nationwide

SM Cares officially turns over more than 70,000 books collected through its Book Nook Donation Drive across 88 SM malls to 88 partner libraries—strengthening its commitment to promote lifelong learning nationwide. (L-R) SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President Ms. Hanna Carinna T. Sy, SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Mr. Hans T. Sy, National Library of the Philippines Director Cesar Gilbert Q. Adriano, Book Nook Pioneer Ms. Shereen T. Sy, and SM Engineering Design and Development President Mr. Hans “Chico” T. Sy Jr.

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, wrapped up the Book Nook Book Donation Drive with an inspiring show of community spirit, collecting over 70,000 pre-loved books across 88 SM malls nationwide. The initiative brought together thousands of Filipinos in a shared mission to spark the joy of reading and promote lifelong learning.

From Spark to Movement

“When SM celebrated its 40th anniversary, the focus was not on grandeur, but on purpose: to transform this spirit of sharing into a full-fledged Book Nook Book Donation Drive,” shared Mr. Cesar Gilbert Q. Adriano, Director of the National Library of the Philippines. “From that spark, the journey truly took root, born from a shared belief that stories are gifts meant to be passed on.”

SM City Bacolod and its community delivers 5,600+ books to the Provincial Library of Negros Occidental —bringing stories closer to the community.

From July 7 to October 15, 2025, mallgoers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao donated books of all kinds — from children’s stories and educational materials to novels and reference titles — to benefit public libraries and community reading spaces across the country.

SM City Novaliches joins the nationwide Book Nook Book Donation Drive, turning over boxes of pre-loved books to local communities and schools to spread the joy of reading and learning.

The reach of this initiative speaks volumes: the Book Nook Book Donation Drive has enriched 88 libraries and reading centers nationwide, including 74 affiliated public libraries in Luzon, 7 in the Visayas, and 7 in Mindanao. This collective effort will benefit an estimated 219,936 students, families, and educators, transforming libraries into vibrant hubs where learning thrives and stories come alive. 

Celebrating Literacy and Community Partnership

The youth remain at the heart of the Book Nook Book Donation Drive—equipping future generations with knowledge and learning opportunities through the gift of books.

The culmination of the drive was marked by a ceremonial turnover held on November 27, 2025, at the National Library of the Philippines, where SM Cares formally turned over the collected books to its 88 partner library communities.

The event stood as a milestone celebration of how the Book Nook program continues to strengthen literacy and learning through accessible, community-based reading spaces located in SM malls nationwide.

Book Nook honors librarians nationwide who champion the love of reading and transform libraries into vibrant centers of learning.

“Through the Book Nook, we hope to nurture curiosity and creativity in every Filipino,” said Ms. Shereen T. Sy, Pioneer of the Book Nook program under SM Cares. “This initiative shows us how collective action can create lasting impact — one book, one reader, one community at a time.”

Honoring the Champions of Literacy

During the turnover, Book Nook also recognized exemplary public librarians who have gone above and beyond in fostering literacy and learning in their communities. The Heart of the Library Award for Most Outstanding Librarian was presented to Ms. Michael “Aiko” Nagas of the City Library of San Fernando, La Union, for her dedication to making books and knowledge accessible to all.

Meanwhile, the Literacy Partner Award was presented to outstanding librarians across the country, including Ms. Rosena Roman of the City of Imus Public Library, Ms. Easter Wahayna-Pablo of the Baguio City Public Library, Ms. Mylene Villanueva of the Manila City Library, and Mr. Michael Pinto of the Cagayan Provincial Learning and Resource Center. These individuals were honored for their invaluable efforts in promoting reading, cultivating lifelong learning, and inspiring their communities to grow through knowledge.

This milestone is more than a celebration—it’s a promise. SM Cares remains dedicated to empowering future generations through literacy and learning. Through initiatives like Book Nook, we aim to nurture curiosity, creativity, and connection. Learn more at https://linktr.ee/smbooknook or follow @OfficialSMCares and @SMBookNook.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving with Every You

SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 89 malls in the Philippines and 8 in China—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences. (SM PRIME)