Wednesday, August 20, 2025

SM Prime, DOST, ARISE Philippines to host first sustainability expo

In a landmark partnership to promote sustainable innovation, SM Prime, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Arise Philippines are joining forces to launch the first Sustainability Expo (Sustex) at the SMX Convention Center Aura, Taguig City on Aug. 29-30, 2025.

SM Seaside City Cebu solar panels are part of SM’s sustainable innovations that reflect how smart energy solutions can create lasting impact for both business and the environment

With the theme “Innovation for Environmental Stewardship,” SUSTEX 2025 aims to catalyze transformative change in business practices by showcasing groundbreaking technologies and scalable solutions that advance climate resilience, waste reduction, and circularity across industries.

Featuring over 50 exhibitors, the expo will highlight advancements in waste management and recycling, energy and water efficiency, electric vehicles, carbon reduction, air quality improvement, and disaster resilience.

A pioneering initiative by SM Prime, the Rainwater Treatment Facility at SM City Baguio transforms rainwater into potable water through advanced filtration — supporting water conservation and reducing dependence on local water sources.

It will serve as a hub for cross-sector dialogue, policy alignment, and public-private collaboration, bringing together industry leaders, government agencies, MSMEs, tenant partners, sustainability advocates, diplomats, and students.

“We believe innovation is central to achieving a low-carbon, circular, and resilient future,” said Hans Sy, chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime Holdings Inc. “Through Sustex, we aim to move beyond dialogue to shape solutions, forge stronger partnerships and drive change at the scale this moment demands.”

An innovative partnership with GUUN Japan, SM Prime transforms non-recyclable waste into alternative fuel — reducing landfill waste and supporting cleaner, more sustainable communities.

DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said in a statement that Sustex 2025 reflects the agency’s unwavering commitment to harnessing science, technology, and innovation to build a more sustainable and resilient future, which is aligned with DOST’s fourth strategic pillar of institutionalizing sustainability.

“Through collaboration with industries, government, academe, and communities, we aim to accelerate solutions that will help transform the Philippine’s business landscape into a true champion of circular economy and climate action. At the heart of these efforts is our goal to empower every Filipino to become a victor, not a victim, in the face of disasters and climate challenges,” said Solidum.

Part of SM’s commitment to sustainable innovation, the EV Charging Stations at SM Malls support the shift to cleaner mobility—reducing emissions and promoting eco-friendly transport for the community.

Sustex also aligns with SM's Waste-Free Future campaign and the company’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by encouraging the private sector’s role in addressing the climate crisis.

Attendees can expect interactive exhibits, expert-led forums, and solution-driven conversations that aim to drive greener business decisions and empower changemakers across all sectors.

Register now for free and take part in the movement toward a more sustainable future. Download the SM Malls Online app and sign up today via this link: https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/SMSustex2025

Celebrating 40 super years of evolving with every you, SM Supermalls — one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers — continuously evolving to lead the way in sustainable development by integrating green design, energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and environmental stewardship into its 88 malls in the Philippines, all while creating inclusive spaces that enrich communities, support climate action, and ensure a better, more sustainable future for generations of Filipino shoppers. (SM PRIME)

Cyberzone powers up SM Tech Fair with three epic conventions for 40 SUPER Years

From north to south, the country’s premier tech and gaming hub unites communities this August.

 

In the world of gaming, tech, and geek culture, community is everything. It’s where friendships are forged, rivalries are born, and passions come to life. This August, in celebration of #SM40SuperYears, Cyberzone is putting the spotlight on that community spirit with three major conventions happening across Metro Manila: 

Northern Playcon at SM City North Edsa (August 1-17)
ToyCon Battlegrounds at SM Mall of Asia (August 15-17)
Geek+Pop Prologue at SM Southmall (August 16) and SM City Dasmarinas (August 30-31)

“Cyberzone is more than just a place for tech and gadgets—it’s a space where passion thrives,” said Patrick Pacla, Vice President – Cyberzone Operations and Marketing at SM Supermalls. “With these three flagship events, we’re giving gamers, collectors, and hobbyists more opportunities to connect, compete, and celebrate their passions.”

These community-driven conventions coincide with the month-long, nationwide SM Tech Fair – happening at 88 SM Supermalls from August 1 to 31, 2025.

Play to the North

 

Backed by official sponsor Bandai Gashapon, Northern PlayCon is the ultimate area for everything gaming. This year’s highlights include the Northern Playoffs, including Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, and a Gamer’s Round Table for free-to-play matches for any game they could think of. Passersby and casual fans can also spectate the Northern Playoffs from large LED screens showing real-time footage of the competitions.

Top brands like PC Express, PLDT, Nintendo, ROG, SteelSeries, and DataBlitz will also showcase their latest offerings for gamers and tech enthusiasts.

The Battlegrounds at MOA

 

ToyCon Battlegrounds brings geek culture to life with a competitive twist. Over three days, attendees can enjoy activity booths for Tekken 8, painting, trading cards, and Beyblade, plus tournaments for Tekken 8, Bankee Beyblade, Pokémon, and Magic: The Gathering. The event caps off with a cosplay competition for those who want to bring their favorite characters to life.

See you in the South

 

At SM Southmall, Geek+Pop Prologue welcomes gamers, collectors, and pop culture fans alike. Expect trading card duels for One Piece: The Card Game, Pokémon Trading Card Game, and Magic: The Gathering.

Also, the Geek+Pop Fight Club boasts a 64-player minimum cap for select titles, encouraging players to rally their squads, friends, and even family for a shot at the championship.

To blend in nostalgia, retro gaming consoles will be on display, giving younger fans a chance to experience the classics that shaped gaming history. The next Geek+Pop Prologue will be held at SM City Dasmarinas on August 30-31.

Choose your quest

Whether you’re a competitive gamer, casual player, or a pop culture aficionado, Northern Playcon, ToyCon Battlegrounds, and Geek+Pop Prologue promise fun, friendly competition, and a community that’s always ready to welcome new members.

Want to know more? Connect with SM Cyberzone’s official channels: Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Plus, get tech-assured deals and more out of your next gadget fix ‘coz you #GotITAtCyberzone! Visit their website at www.smcyberzone.com.

Celebrate SM Tech Fair with the Cyberzone Gadget Craze this August! Spend Php1,000 for a chance to win one of 40 SUPER-tech prizes! Join Here (SM Supermalls)

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

SM Foundation drives medical missions to more communities

SM Foundation is continuing its long-running effort to bring healthcare services to communities with limited healthcare access.

In Dumaguete City, beneficiaries line up at the SM Foundation mobile clinic to receive free X-rays and ECG services.

Its Medical Mission program began in 2001 and has since conducted more than 1,700 medical missions, reaching over 1.3 million patients across the country.

Dr. Bless Bertos, Senior Project Manager for SM Foundation’s Health and Medical Programs, examines a patient from San Remigio, Cebu to determine the appropriate care, medicines and vitamins to prescribe.

Carried out with the help of various social good partners, the initiative has adapted over time to address the needs of its beneficiaries. A mobile clinic has been supporting the missions, equipped with X-ray and ECG machines, as well as blood and urine analyzers for on-site diagnosis and treatment.

Volunteers and social good partners provide care for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm in Puerto Princesa.

In recent weeks, the foundation has brought its services to multiple locations. These included SM City Puerto Princesa Brgy. Salvacion and Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm in Puerto Princesa, Dumaguete City, and Valencia in Negros Oriental, San Remio, Bogo, and Naval Station Central Visayas in Cebu. Over a thousand patients in the said areas received consultations, diagnostic services, and basic medical care.

Philippine Navy personnel, their families, and nearby residents receive medical services during the mission at Naval Station Central Visayas.

SM Foundation is set to conduct more medical missions in the coming months. These activities will run alongside its Wellness Center program, which involves the revamp and rehabilitation of health centers and hospitals to improve healthcare delivery. (SM Foundation)