Thursday, November 20, 2025

SM CINEMA UNVEILS THE COUNTRY’S FIRST SCREENX THEATER AT SM MALL OF ASIA

SM Cinema, the country’s largest film exhibitor, once again raises the bar for moviegoing experiences with the launch of the first SCREENX theater in the Philippines at SM Mall of Asia.

SCREENX is located at the 2nd Level, Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia.

Through its partnership with CJ 4DPLEX, a global leader in premium film formats and cinema technologies, SM Cinema introduces SCREENX, a revolutionary 270-degree panoramic theater format that expands the film beyond the main screen and onto the side walls of the auditorium. This innovative setup fully immerses audiences in the story, surrounding them with breathtaking visuals and heightened realism.

SCREENX is a revolutionary 270-degree panoramic theater format.

Present at the launch were SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation President Hans “Chico” Sy Jr., CJ 4DPLEX CEO Don Savant, CJ 4DPLEX Managing Director for APAC Jamil Valiyev, and SM Cinema Senior Assistant Vice President for Cinema Management Karen Zabaljauregui.

Executives from SM and CJ 4DPLEX

As a special treat to Filipino audiences, “Wicked: For Good,” the highly anticipated sequel to the hit film starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, makes history as the first film to premiere in SCREENX in the Philippines.

“Wicked: For Good” in SCREENX are now available at ₱700 via SM Cinema.

Tickets for “Wicked: For Good” in SCREENX are now available at ₱700 via SM Cinema. Fans can also look forward to upcoming SCREENX releases later this year, including “Zootopia 2” and “Avatar: Fire and Ash.” SCREENX is located at the 2nd Level, Entertainment Mall, SM Mall of Asia.

SM Cinema continues to offer a diverse range of advanced cinema formats—such as IMAX, Directors Club, and now SCREENX—underscoring its commitment to bringing world-class entertainment experiences to Filipino moviegoers.

About CJ 4DPLEX

CJ 4DPLEX is a leading, next-generation cinema technology company, headquartered in Seoul with international offices in Los Angeles and Beijing. The company has created innovative film technologies for theaters worldwide that include 'SCREENX', '4DX', and 'Ultra 4DX' for consumers to experience films in ways that were never before possible.

CJ 4DPLEX is a part of the CJ Group conglomerate that also includes entertainment powerhouses CJ CGV, the fifth largest theater chain in the world, and CJ ENM (CJ Entertainment & Media), who produced the Academy Award®, Golden Globe® and SAG Awards winning film, "Parasite".

SCREENX is the world's first multi-projection cinema with an immersive 270-degree field of view. By expanding the image beyond the frame and onto the walls of the theater, SCREENX places the audience directly at the center of the story, creating a visually immersive viewing experience unlike any other. To date, there are over 435 SCREENX auditoriums around the world in 40 countries.

4DX provides moviegoers with a multi-sensory cinema-going experience, allowing audiences to connect with movies through motion, vibration, water, wind, snow, lightning, scents, and other special effects that enhance the visuals on-screen. Each 4DX auditorium incorporates motion-based seating synchronized with more than 21 different effects and optimized by a team of skilled editors. To date, there are over 775 4DX auditoriums around the world, spanning over 70 countries.

About SM Cinema

SM Cinema is the largest film exhibitor in the Philippines, operating over 300 screens in more than 78 branches nationwide. As part of SM Lifestyle, Inc., a subsidiary of SM Prime Holdings, SM Cinema is committed to delivering world-class cinematic experiences to Filipino moviegoers. From the latest blockbuster films to premium formats such as IMAX, Directors Club, and Event Cinema, SM Cinema continuously elevates the way audiences enjoy movies.

Driven by innovation, customer service, and a passion for storytelling, SM Cinema remains a trusted entertainment destination for families, friends, and film lovers across the country. Learn more at www.smcinema.com or follow @SMCinema on social media. (SM Supermalls)

DTI–Zamboanga City, SM City Mindpro Unveils Collaborative Design Exhibit Showcasing Yakan Weaving and Local Creativity

The Department of Trade and Industry–Zamboanga City Office (DTI-ZCO) launched its pre-judging design exhibit as part of Hilos de Innovacion Project – an initiative under the Malikhaing Pinoy Program in partnership with the Competitiveness and Innovation Group (CIG). The project strengthens the creative capabilities of local MSMEs, designers, and artisans in the wearables and homestyle sectors, advancing Zamboanga City’s creative economy and cultural pride.

The exhibit, located at the Ground Level Activity Area of SM City Mindpro, is open for public viewing from November 20-21, giving mallgoers and visitors the opportunity to experience the artistry and craftsmanship behind Zamboanga’s evolving creative landscape.

Featuring 21 original design creations, the showcase highlights the collaborative work of seven (7) local designers and masterful Yakan weavers. Each designer produced three (3) ready-to-wear design sets, blending traditional Yakan handwoven textiles with contemporary fashion and product design. The pieces celebrate cultural heritage while championing innovation, showing how tradition can inspire modern expression.

SM City Mindpro Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez expressed strong support for the initiative, saying, “We are honored to host this remarkable exhibit that not only spotlights the artistry of our local designers and Yakan weavers, but also reinforces SM’s commitment to uplifting cultural creativity in Zamboanga. By opening our space to initiatives like this, we hope to inspire the community and help elevate local talent onto a bigger stage.”

DTI-ZCO and SM invites the public, partners, and design enthusiasts to explore this meaningful collaboration and witness the rich tapestry of culture, creativity, and innovation on display at SM City Mindpro.

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

SM Prime nears completion of P2.3 Billion SM Iloilo Redevelopment

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is on track to complete the P2.3 billion redevelopment of SM City Iloilo by the first quarter of 2026, in line with its broader push to transform its commercial properties into future-ready spaces that anchor regional growth.

Artist’s perspective of SM Iloilo North Block with the planned National University Tower set to open in 2027.

The investment includes the addition of over 7,900 square meters of gross leasable area (GLA) for the mall, over 23,670 square meters for the National University (NU), upgraded mall interiors, motion sensor escalators, an expanded skylight, a multi-level car park at the North Block and improved connectivity to the adjacent SM Strata, the tallest towers in Western Visayas and home to many IT-BPO companies.

“SM City Iloilo has been central to our growth and to the Ilonggo community,” said SM Prime president Jeffrey C. Lim. “This investment will help drive domestic tourism, strengthen MSMEs, and unlock the city’s full potential.”

Opened in 1999 at the height of the Asian Financial Crisis, SM City Iloilo was the eighth SM Supermall built by SM Prime. A series of expansions between 2009 and 2016 grew its GLA from 71,979 square meters to 106,307 square meters.

Guided by ‘All For You’ strategy, new zones for athleisure, entertainment and amusement are being introduced to support the mall’s evolving tenant mix and growing customer base, while enhancing the overall visitor experience and attracting increased foot traffic.

The introduction of new and exciting concepts—many of which are firsts in Iloilo—such as Game Park, Fantasy World, Decathlon, TGI Friday’s and Chili’s, is set to further strengthen SM City Iloilo’s position as the region’s leading retail and lifestyle destination.

“Sustainability is also a key part of this redevelopment,” said Lim. “We are integrating eco-efficient features, including rooftop solar panels and advanced daylighting systems, as part of our broader commitment to building a greener, more energy-efficient property portfolio.”

The presence of NU by 2027—located within the complex—is also expected to boost foot traffic and reinforce the mall’s multi-generational appeal.

Once completed, SM City Iloilo will feature expanded retail and dining offerings, welcoming new brands and lifestyle destinations that will further cement its position as the premier lifestyle mall in Western Visayas. (SM PRIME)