SM City Mindpro Hosts Zamboanga City Fire District’s 911 Fire Square Roadshow

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines 11 September, 2026 – Demonstrating its commitment to fostering a safer and more resilient community, SM City Mindpro partnered with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Zamboanga City Fire District in hosting the 911 Fire Square Roadshow today at the mall's Level 3 Activity Area.

Held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, the event gathered mallgoers, students, and members of the community for an interactive learning experience centered on emergency preparedness, fire safety awareness, and public access to emergency services.

A key highlight of the activity was the launch of 911 E-Connect, an initiative of the Zamboanga City Fire District that provides the public with a direct and accessible link to emergency services. The platform is designed to enhance communication between residents and emergency responders, contributing to faster coordination during emergencies.

The roadshow also featured informative exhibit showcasing the equipment and tools used by firefighters and rescue personnel in responding to various emergency situations. Adding a unique and engaging element to the program, BFP personnel served as models in a special presentation of the Bureau's various uniforms, demonstrating the distinct roles and functions performed by firefighters and emergency responders.

Through interactive displays and public engagement activities, participants gained valuable insights into fire prevention, emergency response procedures, and practical safety measures that can help protect lives and property. 

Assistant Mall Manager Engr. Rommel Bellen emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting safety and preparedness within the community.

“At SM City Mindpro, the safety and well-being of our customers, tenants, and employees remain among our top priorities. We are honored to provide a venue for meaningful initiatives such as the 911 Fire Square Roadshow, which help educate the public and strengthen emergency preparedness. Through partnerships with agencies like the BFP, we can collectively build a safer and more informed community,” Bellen said.

The activity forms part of SM City Mindpro's continuing efforts to support programs that create awareness, encourage civic participation, and promote public safety. By bringing together government agencies, community stakeholders, and the public, the mall continues to serve as a platform for initiatives that contribute to the overall well-being and resilience of the Zamboanga community.

SM Malls in Zamboanga Join Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill, Reinforcing Culture of Preparedness

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 10 September 2026 – Demonstrating their steadfast commitment to safety, preparedness, and disaster resilience, SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga successfully participated in the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) today at 2:00 PM.

The drill engaged a broad spectrum of mall stakeholders, including SM employees, tenants, agency personnel, and shoppers, highlighting the collective responsibility of ensuring public safety during emergencies. Participants promptly observed the prescribed earthquake response protocol of "Duck, Cover, and Hold", which serves as the primary protective action during seismic events.

Upon the sounding of the earthquake alarm, the malls' Emergency Response Teams (ERTs) were immediately activated and mobilized to facilitate the orderly implementation of emergency procedures. Following the simulated earthquake, participants were guided through designated evacuation routes and assembly areas, ensuring that proper evacuation processes were observed at all times.

The exercise demonstrated the readiness and coordination of mall personnel and partner agencies in responding to potential emergencies, while reinforcing the importance of preparedness and vigilance among the public.

"Safety remains a top priority in all SM malls. Through regular participation in nationwide preparedness activities such as the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill, we continue to strengthen our emergency response capabilities and cultivate a culture of safety among our employees, tenants, partners, and customers," shared Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, SM City Zamboanga Mall Manager.

The successful conduct of the drill underscores SM's commitment to providing a secure environment and supporting national initiatives that promote disaster awareness and resilience. By actively participating in preparedness programs, SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga contribute to building safer communities equipped to respond effectively during emergencies.

SM Group receives 15 Philippine Quill Awards for stakeholder communications

SM Foundation's health and wellness programs continue to bring basic healthcare services directly to communities nationwide.

SM Group companies received 15 Philippine Quill Awards, including six Excellence Awards, for communications programs spanning community engagement, customer service, financial education, investor relations and digital communications.

The awards went to SM Investments Corporation, the parent company of the SM Group, and businesses across the Group, including SM Foundation, Inc., SM Supermalls (Shopping Center Management Corporation), BDO Unibank, Inc., China Banking Corporation and Signature Series by SM Residences (Signatures Development Corp).

“Good communication helps people understand what our businesses do and why it matters to them,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and Chief Executive Officer of SM Investments. “These awards reflect the work across the Group to communicate clearly with the customers, investors, partners and communities we serve.”

SM Foundation received four awards, including three Excellence Awards. Its “Utilizing Social Good as a Force for Transformation” campaign received Excellence Awards for Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility, while #SpreadingSocialGood Stories Online: Transforming Lives Through Heartfelt Storytelling received an Excellence Award for Social Media. Its social good report was also recognized under Publications.

“Communication is an important part of strengthening the impact of development programs,” said Debbie Sy, Executive Director of SM Foundation. “It helps communities understand the opportunities available to them, gives people a voice, and brings partners closer to our mission. That is what spreading social good means to us, using communication to help social good initiatives reach and engage more people.” 

BDO received four awards, including three Excellence Awards. “Life Insurance: The Key to Heaven?” and “Tuloy ang Plano: Making Plan B a Family Necessity” received Excellence Awards for Marketing, Advertising and Brand Communication, while “Your Child’s Dreams Need a Plan B” received an Excellence Award for Audio/Visual Communication. BDO Remit’s “Alagang Kabayan: Where Every Kabayan Belongs” was also recognized for Social Media.

SM In Focus host Rico Hizon (center) visits the Philippine Geothermal Production Company’s Tiwi site to gather groundbreaking business initiatives and sustainability stories for the online channel.

SM Investments was recognized for SM In Focus, a group-wide online channel as part of SM’s evolving approach to stakeholder communication, leveraging on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to provide timely, structured, and relevant insights on the group’s operations and impact.

Through Mindanao Art, SM Supermalls provides a platform for Filipino artists to showcase Mindanao's diverse creativity and cultural heritage.

SM Supermalls received three awards for Active Hub, Mindanao Art, and International Coastal Cleanup 2025, covering Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility. 

“Our programs begin with understanding what our customers and communities need,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Communication helps us listen, respond and keep improving how we serve them.”

Chinabank received two awards. Its Investor Relations: Focused on Value campaign was recognized for Financial Communication and Investor Relations, while My CBC Campaign: An App Fit for Beauty Queens was recognized for Marketing, Advertising and Brand Communication.

Signature Series was recognized for “Setting a New Mark in Premium Residential Living” under Marketing, Advertising and Brand Communication.

Organized by the International Association of Business Communicators Philippines (IABC), the Philippine Quill Awards recognize communication programs and practices across organizations in the country. This year’s winners were selected from more than 800 entries evaluated against IABC standards.

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About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation (SM) is an owner-operator of market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property, with investments in high-growth opportunities in the Philippine economy. Through its portfolio, SM generates resilient cash flows and reinvests with discipline to compound value over the long term.

Its retail operations are the largest and most diversified in the country. Its property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines. Its banking interests include BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, one of the country’s largest private domestic banks.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

Strong performance, stronger trust: SM Supermalls evolves for the next generation of customers

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan speaks at the My SM Business Media Roundtable, highlighting SM’s strong 2026 performance and its continued drive to create more meaningful experiences for shoppers and communities.  

CEBU, Philippines, 9th September 2026 - SM Supermalls continues to build momentum in 2026 as it responds to the evolving needs of Filipino communities, posting record revenues of P41.8 billion in the first half of the year, an 8% increase from P38.6 billion during the same period last year. The strong performance was supported by higher leasable space and tenant sign-ups, as well as steady shopper visits. Total gross leasable area grew 3% to 5.1 million square meters from 5.0 million square meters, while the number of tenants increased 4% to 23,174 from 22,192. Average daily foot traffic remained steady at 3.7 million, underscoring the enduring appeal of SM’s malls as destinations for shopping, dining, entertainment, leisure, and community experiences.

Signature offerings from Din Tai Fung and Wolfgang’s Steakhouse highlight the diverse dining experiences now available at SM City Cebu, giving shoppers access to globally recognized culinary names closer to home. 

In Cebu, this growth story comes to life through the evolving offerings of its most-loved SM malls—SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall. Recognizing that customers increasingly seek diverse experiences beyond traditional retail, SM has enhanced its spaces with sports, leisure, entertainment, and other lifestyle offerings, and has introduced first-in-the-Visayas brands and concepts that further elevate Cebu’s retail and dining landscape. Among these are Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, Din Tai Fung, Manam, 8Cuts Burgers, Ooma, Mo’ Cookies, Hoshino Coffee, Ramen Nagi, Love, Bonito, Bath & Body Works, and Victoria’s Secret, giving Cebuanos and visitors access to sought-after names without having to leave the region. These additions, alongside SM’s growing mix of experiences, further strengthen its commitment to creating destinations that reflect Cebu's evolving tastes and lifestyles, reinforcing that SM is for Cebu.

15,500 runners came together for the SM2SM Run 2026, reflecting SM’s continued commitment to promoting active, healthy lifestyles across communities. 

Nationwide, SM added 41 pickleball courts during the first half of the year, bringing its total to 102 courts across 32 properties. In Cebu, initiatives such as the SM2SM Run further demonstrate SM’s commitment to active and healthy lifestyles, bringing communities together through movement, camaraderie, and shared experiences. This is complemented by a growing calendar of sports, wellness, and creative activities hosted at SM malls, including the Cebu Marathon, Singlife Cebu International Marathon, the East Asia Super League (EASL) 2026-2027 season, and the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup next year. These activities bring together athletes, enthusiasts, families, students, and spectators, reinforcing SM’s role as a venue for sports, creativity, and community engagement while complementing Cebu’s growing tourism appeal.

Driving toward a more sustainable future, SM Supermalls in Cebu provide free EV charging as part of SM’s nationwide rollout of EV Charging Stations across all 90 malls. 

“Our growth reflects the enduring trust of our tenants and shoppers. Despite macroeconomic headwinds, they continue to find value in the variety of our offerings and the strong sense of community in our malls,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “This gives us confidence to keep investing in spaces and experiences that respond to their changing needs.” This customer-defined approach is also evident in SM’s sustainability and community initiatives. From 100 MWp of solar power generated through mall rooftop solar PV systems, SM increased its capacity to 122 MWp, with further expansion planned through the end of the year. SM also reached 100% coverage for free EV Charging Stations across all 90 malls, with 203 EV charging stations nationwide.

In recognition of its sustained innovation and customer-centric vision, SM Supermalls was named the Philippines’ Strongest Brand for the second consecutive year by Brand Finance, scoring 95.3 out of 100 on the Brand Strength Index and retaining its AAA+ rating in the Philippines 50 2026 report.

SM’s transformation journey also supports its broader My SM platform, its five-year initiative to evolve malls to meet the changing needs, lifestyles, and aspirations of Filipino communities. “Our growth plan for the rest of 2026 and beyond is to continue evolving for our customers. SM will continue building business momentum by introducing exciting new brands, cinema and entertainment acts, and leisure offerings to sustain market interest. With the upcoming opening of our 91st mall, SM Nuvali, we are expanding our business footprint in the emerging growth corridor of South Luzon and Calabarzon with an innovative upscale mall concept never experienced in the Philippine market before,” said Tan.

For Cebu, SM continues to create destinations that contribute to the province’s dynamic lifestyle and tourism ecosystem, offering more ways for people to shop, dine, play, connect, and experience all that Cebu has to offer. Through the My SM campaign, SM in Cebu brings together relevant and meaningful experiences across retail, dining, sports, entertainment, recreation, and community activities—reflecting how people live, travel, and spend time today. As Cebu welcomes more visitors and communities find new ways to connect and enjoy, SM remains committed to making every visit a maxed-out experience, with more ways to discover, dine, play, shop, and celebrate Cebu.

SM Supermalls in Zamboanga lead the call for volunteers to join International Coastal Cleanup 2026

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 09 September 2026 – In a continuing effort to protect and preserve the marine environment, government agencies, private organizations, civil society groups, students, and environmental advocates are invited to participate in this year's International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) 2026 on September 19, 2026 (Saturday), at 6:00 AM along R.T. Lim Boulevard, Zamboanga City. 

The annual International Coastal Cleanup is the world's largest volunteer effort dedicated to combating marine debris and promoting environmental stewardship. The activity aims to raise public awareness on the impacts of improper waste disposal on coastal and marine ecosystems while encouraging communities to take an active role in protecting the environment.

With the message “Bayanihan Para sa Karagatan — Together for Our Oceans,” this year’s cleanup underscores how collective action, even through seemingly small efforts, can contribute to cleaner surroundings and a healthier, more resilient future. 

More than a one-day activity, the International Coastal Cleanup encourages people to see caring for the ocean as an everyday responsibility. It is an opportunity for communities to work side by side while turning concern for the environment into action.

Volunteers are encouraged to arrive early and wear comfortable clothing, caps, and sun protection. Participants may also bring reusable water bottles as part of the event's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Individual participants may scan the QR code and register through the SM Malls Online (SMO) App at bit.ly/SMCARESICC2026. Volunteers should download the app from the App Store or Google Play, locate the International Coastal Cleanup 2026 event, and swipe or tap in to officially register their attendance.

Join the movement and be part of Bayanihan Para sa Karagatan.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. Every Filipino has an SM story. For generations, SM has been more than a place to shop. It has become part of everyday Filipino life, a place where families gather, friendships grow, milestones are celebrated, passions are discovered, and communities come together. As Filipinos’ lifestyles continue to evolve, SM continues to transform its destinations through My SM creating malls that are more connected, experiential, and meaningful, while remaining the place Filipinos know, trust, and call home.

My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.

It’s Time to Go ALL OUT: Big Sales, Geek Culture, and Epic Fun Take Over SM Supermalls in Zamboanga This August!

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 28 August 2026 – The final days of August are shaping up to be more exciting than ever as your most-loved SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga roll out a lineup of shopping deals, tech experiences, and fandom-filled events that promise maxed-out experience for everyone.

Shoppers can look forward to the Great August Sale from August 28 to 31, where participating stores across both malls offer up to 70% OFF on fashion, gadgets, dining, home essentials, beauty products, and more. Whether upgrading your wardrobe, scoring the latest tech, or treating family and friends, the sale makes it the perfect time to shop and save before the month ends.

Beyond shopping, SM is turning the spotlight on technology, gaming, anime, and collectibles through its Tech & Play Month celebration. At Cyberzone, located on Level 4 of SM City Mindpro and Level 2 of SM City Zamboanga, enthusiasts can explore the latest gadgets, gaming trends, hobby collections, and emerging tech innovations. The month-long campaign brings together the communities behind gaming, anime, collectibles, and digital lifestyles in one exciting destination.

Adding even more energy to the celebrations is the GEEKCON at SM City Zamboanga, a showcase of creativity, competition, and fandom happening at the Mall Atrium, Lower Ground Level. The festivities kick off on August 28 at 10:00 AM with a Trading Card Game Tournament featuring popular titles such as Pokémon, Vanguard, and Yu-Gi-Oh!, where players can test their skills against fellow enthusiasts.

On August 29, SM City Zamboanga makes history with the city's first-ever JPOP Anime Singing Contest, giving anime fans and aspiring performers a chance to take center stage and celebrate the music behind some of their favorite series. The excitement reaches its grand finale on August 30 with the Cosplay Showcase Showdown, where solo and group competitors will bring beloved characters to life through stunning costumes, creativity, and performance.

With unbeatable shopping deals, immersive tech experiences, and a vibrant celebration of geek culture, SM Supermalls in Zamboanga invites everyone to make the most of the remaining days of August. From bargain hunters and gadget lovers to gamers, anime fans, collectors, and cosplayers, there's no better place to shop, play, and connect than at SM.

Don't just end August. End it with gala to the max at SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia's largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. For generations, SM has grown alongside Filipino communities by creating destinations where people, businesses, and opportunities come together.

Through "My SM," SM continues to evolve with the changing lifestyles and needs of Filipino communities, reimagining the mall experience through thoughtfully designed spaces, better connectivity, innovative digital conveniences, and meaningful experiences that foster connection and strengthen communities.

My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

SM Group receives 12 Stevie® Awards for reporting and community programs

The SM Group received 12 Stevie Awards at the 2026 International Business Awards, with recognition spanning parent-company reporting and programs delivered through its malls and communities. 

SM Investments Corporation, the parent company of the SM Group, received four awards. It won Gold Stevies in the Conglomerates (Large) and Best Annual Report (Publicly Held Corporations) categories for its 2025 Integrated Report.

Its 2025 Sustainability Report received Bronze for Best Sustainability Report. The SM Sustainability School also received Bronze under Sustainability Initiative of the Year in Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and Chief Executive Officer of SM Investments

“Clear reporting gives investors and other stakeholders a better view of how we make decisions, manage the business and plan for the long term,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and Chief Executive Officer of SM Investments. “The other awards show how that same sense of responsibility is carried through by our businesses in the communities they serve.” 

That work can be seen across the eight awards received by SM Supermalls.

 

SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan

“People experience a mall through the things they do there, not through what we say about it,” said SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan. “A place to read, an event that brings local art to more people, or a program that makes the mall easier to use can make a practical difference to a community.” 

The Philippine International Pyromusical Competition won Gold for Brand Experience of the Year (Consumer), while the Find Your SM campaign received Silver in the same category. 

The SM Green Movement won Silver for Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility. The SM Cares Coastal Cleanup initiative received Silver for Achievement in Environment, while SM Cares: A Mall for All received Silver for Achievement in Diversity and Inclusion. 

The SM Cares Book Nook received Bronze for Most Innovative Creative Project. The program makes space in malls for people to read and share books. The Empowering Communities campaign was also recognized under Corporate Social Responsibility Program of the Year in Asia, Australia and New Zealand. 

SM Mindanao Art received Bronze in the Corporate and Community (Community Engagement Event) category, giving Mindanaoan artists and their work a wider public audience.

More than 300 business professionals took part in two months of judging. Winners were determined from their average scores.

The International Business Awards, now in their 23rd year, recognize organizations, executives, entrepreneurs and teams worldwide.

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About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation (SM) is an owner-operator of market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property, with investments in high-growth opportunities in the Philippine economy. Through its portfolio, SM generates resilient cash flows and reinvests with discipline to compound value over the long term.

Its retail operations are the largest and most diversified in the country. Its property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines. Its banking interests include BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, one of the country’s largest private domestic banks.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

SM City Zamboanga Leads Lifesaving Blood Donation Drive

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 25 August 2026 – In a powerful display of community solidarity and social responsibility, SM City Zamboanga successfully conducted a Bloodletting Activity on August 25, bringing together volunteers, partners, and advocates in a collective effort to help address the growing demand for blood supplies amid the increasing number of dengue cases in Zamboanga City.

The lifesaving initiative was held in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross - Zamboanga City Chapter, alongside the Philippine Air Force Tactical Operations Wing - Western Mindanao (TOW-WESTMIN), Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO), and the City Health Office (CHO). The event gathered uniformed personnel, employees, tenants, and members of the community who generously rolled up their sleeves to give the gift of life through blood donation.

As dengue cases continue to rise in the city, the need for readily available blood units has become increasingly critical, making every donation a vital resource in helping save lives and strengthen the local healthcare system's response.

“At SM City Zamboanga, we believe that caring for the community goes beyond providing a place to shop and gather. Through initiatives like this bloodletting activity, we create opportunities for individuals to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others,” said Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez, SM City Zamboanga Mall Manager.

The activity underscored the importance of volunteerism and collective action, demonstrating how partnerships among government agencies, healthcare institutions, and private organizations can create a lasting impact. The Philippine Red Cross ensured the safe and efficient collection of blood donations, while partner agencies lent their support to encourage greater community participation.

As SM City Zamboanga remains committed to championing programs that promote health, wellness, and community resilience, the mall encourages the public to continue supporting blood donation campaigns and other initiatives that help build a healthier and stronger city for all.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia's largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. For generations, SM has grown alongside Filipino communities by creating destinations where people, businesses, and opportunities come together.

Through “My SM”, SM continues to evolve with the changing lifestyles and needs of Filipino communities, reimagining the mall experience through thoughtfully designed spaces, better connectivity, innovative digital conveniences, and meaningful experiences that foster connection and strengthen communities.

My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

SM Store Brings Bigger Savings Across Mindanao SM Malls with 8.8 Sale

ZAMBOANGA City, Philippines, 7 August 2026 — Shoppers across Mindanao can look forward to one of the region's biggest retail events as SM Store rolls out its highly anticipated 8.8 Sale on August 8, 2026, offering exclusive discounts, exciting shopping rewards, and flexible payment options for customers across participating SM Stores in Mindanao.

Shoppers can enjoy up to 50% off on great finds, and an exclusive 10% discount on regular-priced items, making it the perfect opportunity to refresh wardrobes, upgrade home essentials, or check off back-to-school and everyday shopping lists.

Adding more value to every purchase, customers who pay using their BDO Debit Card can receive an additional ₱200 OFF, while those looking for more convenient payment options can take advantage of Buy Now, Pay Later at 0% interest, allowing them to bring home more of their favorite finds with greater flexibility.

The shopping excitement doesn't end there. Customers also have the chance to receive a ₱200 OFF Shop Back Voucher, giving them even more reasons to return for their next shopping spree. As an added treat, shoppers can also take home a Mini Karaoke for only ₱749, making the sale even more rewarding for families and entertainment enthusiasts.

The one-day sale highlights SM Store's commitment to delivering exceptional value and an enjoyable shopping experience, bringing together irresistible deals, exclusive promotions, and customer-focused offers under one roof.

With more finds and more savings waiting, the SM Store 8.8 Sale is set to become one of the season's must-shop events for Mindanao shoppers.

Visit smstore.com/mindanao88sale for the complete terms and conditions, and head to SM Store Mindpro and SM Store Zamboanga on August 8 to enjoy these exclusive offers.

More finds. More savings. More reasons to shop at SM Store in Mindanao—Your Every Day Store.

SM Foundation Welcomes New Batch of Scholars in Zamboanga City

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 5 August 2026 — Six (6) deserving students officially joined the growing family of SM Scholars as SM Foundation awarded scholarships to its newest beneficiaries during a ceremonial contract signing held at SM City Mindpro, together with their parents and guardians.

The event marked the beginning of a life-changing educational journey for the new scholars, reinforcing SM Foundation's long-standing commitment to making quality education accessible to talented and hardworking Filipino youth.

The scholars and their families were warmly welcomed by SM City Mindpro Assistant Mall Manager Engr. Rommel P. Bellen and SM Foundation Education Program Assistant Lynneth Gelilio, who both encouraged the students to pursue their dreams with determination, excellence, and gratitude.

In his welcome message, Engr. Bellen congratulated the new scholars for earning the opportunity through their perseverance and reminded them that the scholarship is more than financial assistance—it is an investment in their future and in the communities they will one day serve.

Representing SM Foundation, Gelilio introduced the Education Program and shared how the scholarship continues to transform lives by supporting students throughout their college education while nurturing values of leadership, service, and social responsibility.

Parents and guardians also took part in the ceremony, underscoring the important role of family support in every scholar's academic journey. Their presence highlighted the shared commitment between SM Foundation and families in helping students achieve their aspirations.

The SM Foundation Scholarship Program provides comprehensive educational assistance to qualified students, helping remove financial barriers to higher education while empowering them to become future professionals and nation-builders.

To date, there are thirty-eight (38) SM Scholars in Zamboanga City, reflecting SM Foundation's sustained investment in developing future leaders and creating opportunities that uplift families and communities through education.

For decades, SM Foundation has remained steadfast in its belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for nation-building. By opening doors to deserving students, the Foundation continues to inspire hope and transform lives—one scholar, one family, and one community at a time.

World-Famous Beard Papa’s Opens First Zamboanga Branch at SM City Mindpro

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 03 August 2026 — Zamboangueños can now enjoy the internationally loved cream puffs of Beard Papa’s as the globally recognized Japanese dessert brand officially opened its first-ever branch in Zamboanga City and in the region at SM City Mindpro.

Located at the Ground Level, Beard Papa’s brings its signature freshly baked cream puffs closer to customers in Western Mindanao, marking another milestone in the mall’s growing roster of sought-after dining and specialty food brands.

Known around the world for its light, crispy pastry shells and rich, creamy fillings prepared fresh every day, Beard Papa’s has earned a loyal following for delivering handcrafted desserts that combine quality, freshness, and authentic Japanese craftsmanship.

The opening reinforces SM City Mindpro's commitment to continuously elevating the shopping and dining experience by introducing first-to-market brands that give customers more reasons to visit the mall.

Families, friends, students, and dessert lovers can now experience Beard Papa’s signature treats without leaving the city, making every visit to SM City Mindpro even sweeter.

Whether it's a quick snack, a well-deserved reward, or a treat to share with loved ones, Beard Papa’s offers a delightful experience that's freshly baked and filled with happiness.

Visit Beard Papa’s at your most-loved SM City Mindpro, and discover why its world-famous cream puffs have become a favorite in countries around the globe.

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About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia's largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. For generations, SM has grown alongside Filipino communities by creating destinations where people, businesses, and opportunities come together.

Through “My SM”, SM continues to evolve with the changing lifestyles and needs of Filipino communities, reimagining the mall experience through thoughtfully designed spaces, better connectivity, innovative digital conveniences, and meaningful experiences that foster connection and strengthen communities. 

My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.