DTI and SM Supermalls Highlight Philippine Coconut Industry Trade

 The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), together with the Philippine Coconut Authority, proudly launched the 2025 COCONUT Philippines Trade Fair from August 28 to September 2 at SM Megamall, shining the spotlight on one of the country’s most iconic and powerful agricultural assets—the coconut.

MSMEs take the spotlight | Local entrepreneurs showcase coconut-based products proudly crafted by Filipino hands

Organized under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) mandated by Republic Act No. 11524, the fair went beyond showcasing products—it became a coconut-powered movement celebrating sustainability, innovation, and farmer empowerment.

Visitors discovered a diverse lineup of food, wellness, and lifestyle products crafted by Filipino coconut farmers and MSMEs, proving how the humble coconut continues to create opportunities and transform communities nationwide.

Sustainability Meets Innovation

From organic health supplements to biodegradable household items, the fair highlighted eco-friendly innovations that show how coconuts are shaping a more sustainable future.  

Innovation with purpose | Eco-friendly coconut products highlight sustainability and green living.

“With support from DTI and SM, we’re able to reach more Filipino consumers and let more people discover our products. Kimes Foods today holds patents in 11 countries and distributes abroad.” – Dr. Priscilla Kimes, Kimes Foods (Cebu)

“Simula pa 2011, kasali na kami rito at full support talaga ang DTI sa amin. At kapag sa SM po ang trade fair, malakas talaga ang benta,” said Randy Pineda, President of the Association of Bamboo and Coco Crafts of Tiwi (Albay).

SM’s Strong Commitment to MSMEs

As a partner, SM Supermalls reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MSMEs by providing platforms that elevate local industries, create economic opportunities, and champion proudly Filipino-made products.

“By bringing together coconut farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs under one roof, the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair not only strengthens the coconut industry but also empowers the communities behind it. SM Supermalls is proud to be part of this mission,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

With over 220 exhibitors nationwide, the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair stands as a powerful testament to how government and private partnerships can drive inclusive growth, uplift Filipino farmers, and build a stronger future for MSME's.

Crafted with care | Artisans present creative coconut handicrafts that blend tradition and modern design.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. MSMEs are everywhere in SM Supermalls. From pop-ups to trade fairs, they transform our malls into launchpads of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship—fueling energy, ideas, and everyday experiences. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today!

SM Supermalls’ Bold New Era: All for You

 From iconic destinations to evolved spaces, SM Supermalls is shaping malls that blend scale, innovation, and community for every Filipino.

SM Supermalls marks 40 years of retail leadership with a bold roadmap: to deliver one flagship mall every year from 2026 to 2030, transforming malls into future-ready spaces that anchor regional growth. Alongside these landmark projects, SM is investing over PHP150 billion in 16 major redevelopments and 12 new lifestyle malls, ensuring its entire portfolio evolves into greener, smarter, and more people-centered destinations by 2030.

SM Sta. Rosa (Yulo) in Nuvali coming 2026

The opening of SM North EDSA in 1985 forever changed how Filipinos shopped, dined, and connected. From that single vision grew a nationwide network of 88 malls, welcoming millions of visitors weekly and housing thousands of local and global brands. Today, SM celebrates this legacy as both a retail hub and a trusted partner, community builder, and symbol of continuity for generations.

A Legacy Anchored on Trust

“At SM, we’ve always believed that success is shared,” said Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “From the very beginning, SM was built on trust and relationships. We only win when our partners win.”

This philosophy has guided SM through decades of growth and transformation, from opening the country’s first supermalls to building nationwide retail destinations. Every milestone has been anchored on collaboration with tenants, partners, and communities. That same spirit of shared success continues to shape SM’s New Era vision, ensuring that the malls of tomorrow remain trusted spaces where people come together.

Flagship Destinations that Redefine Retail

Over the next five years, SM will deliver landmark flagship malls that serve as ecosystems combining shopping, dining, culture, and community in destinations that anchor regional economies. Planned projects include SM Sta. Rosa (Yulo) in Nuvali (2026), Harrison Plaza in Manila (2027), SM Malolos in Bulacan (2028), Cavite (2029), and Pasay (2030). These projects reflect SM’s ability to raise the benchmark for Philippine retail while remaining deeply rooted in local communities.

SM Zamboanga

SM Harrison in Manila

Beyond flagships, SM is modernizing existing malls with open-air promenades, lifestyle zones, and sustainable features. These redevelopments will make every SM mall more vibrant, green, and people-centered.

All For You

This vision reflects more than just physical expansion. It highlights SM’s long-standing ability to adapt, modernize, and introduce new experiences that matter to Filipino families. SM is evolving its retail ecosystem to be tenant-led, offering dynamic formats, personalized leasing, and collaborative platforms. Sustainability is a cornerstone, with smarter designs, renewable energy, and eco-conscious developments.

“This New Era is not about adding more malls,” Tan said. “It is about creating destinations that matter, modernizing the malls people already love, and ensuring every Filipino has access to world-class malling. Our promise is simple. Everything we do is all for you.”

SM La Union

He added, “Our vision is clear. We are building the next generation of malls for the next generation of Filipinos.”

With its reach, partnerships, and track record, SM is positioned to lead the next phase of retail and community development in the Philippines.

40 Years of Partnership

The anniversary is being marked nationwide with over 4,000 exclusive partner-powered deals across all 88 malls, SM’s biggest shopping celebration yet. The milestone underscores SM’s unique position, a company that has grown hand in hand with its tenants while remaining the most loved retail channel, deeply woven into the daily lives of Filipino families.

“For four decades, you’ve been with us every step of the way and for that, maraming salamat,” Tan said. “As we look ahead, we will keep evolving with you and for you. Because at SM, our success has always been shared.”

VIYLine MSME Caravan Rolls Into SM City Masinag

 The VIYLine MSME Caravan is bringing its vibrant showcase of local entrepreneurship and proudly Filipino products to the east as it lands at SM City Masinag this September 17–23.

 

VIYLine CEO Viy Cortez–Velasquez joins merchants and influencers at the caravan, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to uplifting MSMEs.

Organized by VIYLine Group of Companies together with SM Supermalls, the caravan has become a well-loved platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to shine in some of the country’s busiest malls. From beauty and wellness essentials to fashion finds, home must-haves, and foodie favorites, shoppers can look forward to discovering the creativity, resilience, and grit of Filipino enterprenuers.

Members of the dance group Mastermind—Jepoy Pelingo, David Inere, Ericson Apelado, Cedrick Mateo, Emil Kristian, Raymund Arago, and Kristian Vienn Gonzalez—energize the crowd with a special performance during the caravan’s opening program. Mastermind is known for their viral dance covers and creative collaborations with local brands.

Toni Fowler, owner of FAB, and Vince Flores make their grand entrance at SM City Muntinlupa to show support for the VIYLine MSME Caravan

Host Tita Krissy Achino (middle) and Even PH co-owners Venice Velasquez and Eve Castro show their support for fellow MSMEs during the caravan’s opening week.

The caravan has already made waves in its earlier stops across Luzon—including SM City Dasmariñas, Bacoor, San Pablo, Santa Rosa, Calamba, Fairview, Cabanatuan, and Muntinlupa—drawing enthusiastic crowds eager to support local brands and meet influencer-entrepreneurs.

“At SM, we are proud to partner with VIYLine in championing MSMEs by giving them spaces where they can thrive, connect with customers, and grow,” said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President, SM Supermalls. “The caravan has proven that supporting local is not just a trend, but a movement.”

Expect a lively week at SM City Masinag, complete with interactive booths, meet-and-greets with influencer-entrepreneurs, and budol-worthy deals that celebrate the best of Filipino MSMEs.

All eyes were on stage as VIYLine’s roster of influencer-entrepreneurs gathered for a special meet-and-greet at SM City Muntinlupa. Students, fans, and young shoppers filled the venue with excitement, eager to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities while celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of the VIYLine MSME Caravan.

Catch the VIYLine MSME Caravan at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Masinag from September 17 to 23. Support local. Shop with purpose. Celebrate Filipino talent at the VIYLine MSME Caravan.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. MSMEs are everywhere in SM Supermalls. From pop-ups to trade fairs, they transform our malls into launchpads of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship—fueling energy, ideas, and everyday experiences. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today!

BEST & NEW FIRSTS IN METRO MANILA : Trends in Lifestyle + Fashion you’ll absolutely want

 Excited to meet your new obsession? Perhaps even more hyped up to make your existing ones even more intense? Well, then free up your weekends from errands and get ready to fill-up your must-visit list with all these new crazes at SM Supermalls.

 

This month of July, we truly got it all for you as we continue to bring you top-tier shopping experiences—thanks to all these new firsts and flagship stores in Metro Manila. 

Iconic Designs That Speak To You

Some works are simply designed to become a pop culture moment themselves, destined to redefine what we think about trends and the mainstream—and that’s what we call iconic! Be part of this moment and check out the newest store that has just opened at SM Supermalls.

From the MCU to the Star Wars franchise, to Jujutsu Kaisen and Demon Slayer, or even something as niche as Beverly Hills, 90210—whatever’s got you poppin’, we get it funkin’. Housing its first-ever store here in Southeast Asia, Funko—the sought-after collectible and pop culture brand—unlocks its first milestone in the region at SM Mall of Asia, offering exclusive product drops, all while promising an immersive retail experience like no other. From characters you love to franchises that have had you fixated for months, Funko has all the Pop! figures your collection needs.

 

Showcasing Your Lifestyle Through Fashion

What you wear isn’t just style—it’s self-expression. Whether you're dressing for work, play, or that special moment, your fashion choices tell your story. At SM Supermalls, we make it easy for you to look and feel your best with a wide selection of world-class brands that help you live your version of the good life. From everyday essentials to statement pieces, everything you need to elevate your lifestyle is right here.

• 8seconds at SM Mall of Asia - Want to emulate your K-pop idols' incredible fashion taste? Say no more! At 8seconds—the first in the Philippines—you can style yourself with the latest Korean trends with comfortable ease. From subtle, neutral pieces to flashier, more colorful garments, you'll step out looking ready for your next world tour!

• JD Sports at SM Mall of Asia - Kickstart your active lifestyle with JD Sports—Britain’s well-received sportswear retailer—which opened its first-in-PH store at SM Mall of Asia, showcasing notable brands like Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, ON and Puma.

• Another Sole at SM Megamall & SM Mall of Asia - Fall in love with timeless designs that’s made to compliment your every style, featuring flats from Another Sole. Comfort for any occasion, perfect for everyday—highlighting stress-tested leather soles and shoes altogether made sustainably, Another Sole will give you the confidence to walk miles with ease.

• Bocu at SM Aura - Stand out effortlessly, featuring minimalist, classic, and slick 365-wears from Bocu—bannering classic styles for the modern individual, now open at SM Aura! From collections that go with your slow moments to functional workwear and pieces inspired by the simplicity of life. Embrace the beauty and power of less is more.

From big names in pop culture finds to designs that fuel your lifestyle aspirations, whatever’s got you going crazy, Metro Manila is set to get more exciting for you—only at here SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

SM and DOST Lead the Future of Sustainability

SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies officially staged the inaugural SM Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025) at the SMX Convention Center Aura, Taguig.

The two-day event, themed “Innovation for Environmental Stewardship,” brought together over 50 exhibitors, government agency leaders, the private sector, the international community and sustainability advocates to showcase cutting-edge solutions that advance a greener and more resilient future.

SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy and DOST Secretary Renato Solidum seal their commitment to environmental stewardship at the launch of the first-ever SM Sustainability Expo.

SM and DOST Leaders strike the Beat of Sustainability and lead the ceremonial Solidrum and angklung performance, symbolizing harmony and collective action at the inaugural Sustainability Expo 2025.

Symbolic Opening: “Beat of Sustainability”

The Expo opened with the ceremonial “Beat of Sustainability,” led by DOST Secretary Renato Solidum and SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy, who together struck the Solidrum—a bamboo drum shell developed by the DOST – Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI).

They were joined by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, SM Prime Vice President Jessica Sy-Bell, SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio, and other dignitaries, who played the angklung, a UNESCO-recognized bamboo instrument. The performance symbolized harmony and collective action in advancing sustainability.

Leadership Perspectives

In his opening remarks, Hans T. Sy emphasized that sustainability lies at the heart of SM’s business and highlighted the importance of partnerships—“Public-private partnerships such as this show how science and business can unite to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. We encourage more of this as the private sector can provide support to projects by local scientists.”

Secretary Solidum echoed this view, noting that SUSTEX demonstrates how innovation and science can strengthen national resilience and drive a circular economy, as championed by similar DOST efforts.

“Through OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All, we ensure that the science, technologies and innovations we develop are not just theories in journals or prototypes in laboratories—they are real solutions, accessible to businesses, communities, and every Filipino. This is also what we mean by Agham na Ramdam—science that is not distant; science that is felt, lived, and experienced by people in their everyday lives,” Solidum shared.

“My call is simple: enough talk. We’ve had summits, forums, declarations that fill up shelves and inboxes. What we need now is proof. Businesses must set their sights on real, tangible goals—not pretty brochures, not slogans, but numbers you can measure, promises you can check.”

Mr. Hans Sy and Ms. Jessica Sy-Bell and visit the DOST-AKO Packaging booth at SUSTEX 2025, underscoring their support for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions.

SUSTEX 2025 visitors engage with the FatHopes Energy booth, learning about innovative solutions for converting used cooking oil into sustainable biofuels.

Expo visitors explore the DOST-PNRI booth at SUSTEX 2025, discovering innovations in nuclear science and technology for sustainable development.

Engaged discussions take place at the PARMS booth during SUSTEX 2025, as visitors learn about collaborative solutions for recycling and materials management.

Innovation Marketplace: Over 50 Exhibitors

SUSTEX 2025 featured more than 50 exhibitors showcasing technologies, initiatives, and products that reflect Filipino ingenuity and global collaboration. Notable exhibits included SM Prime and SM GUUN’s “Waste-Free Future” campaign, which highlighted their joint initiative with Japan’s GUUN Environmental Company on advanced waste management. 

ARISE Philippines showcased efforts to advance disaster resilience through private sector collaboration. The DENR’s Loop Forward Program promoted circularity and large-scale waste reduction. The DOST-FPRDI centerpiece featured sustainable Lalang Pandan furniture, essential oils from Philippine plants, and bamboo musical instruments. Meanwhile, the DOST-CHRG presented innovations in electric vehicle technology.

A panel discussion at the Ignite Stage during SUSTEX 2025 gathers experts to share actionable insights on sustainability and innovation.

DOST leaders engage in a Fireside Chat at the Ignite Stage during SUSTEX 2025, sharing perspectives on science-led development and collaboration.

A Catalyst for Action

Running from August 29 to 30, the Expo featured interactive sessions, product showcases, and knowledge exchanges. The event reinforced SM’s continuing sustainability roadmap, including its Waste-Free Future campaign and commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040.

“May this Expo be more than an event. May it be a catalyst for collaboration, a hub for practical solutions, and a reminder that business can be a force for good—when guided by purpose, discipline and partnership,” Sy concluded. 

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.