The Curious Mom

Manila. The SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) campaign for a Waste-Free Future and its Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable, or RDC model aims to make segregation simple, easy, and actionable. 

In the recent Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025), SM Prime launched the SM Waste Free Future Manual – a playbook that encourages individuals and communities to learn about RDC and building better segregation habits. 

Small steps, big impact 

In the Philippines, the country generates up to 61,000 tons of waste daily and an annual 2.7 million tons of plastic waste. A figure that will rise with urbanization and poor waste disposal practices. 

Inspired by the SM Green Movement’s strong call to action to make sustainability part of everyday life, SM Waste Free Future invites everyone to become part of the solution. 

The three categories, RDC, make sorting waste an empowering exercise by focusing on the word “able” meaning having the power, skill, or the opportunity “to do”.  The manual’s easy, practical, and inspiring read hopes to encourage readers to do just that –championing segregation systems and proper waste disposal. 

Photo caption: Limited number of copies have been printed in support of SM Prime’s sustainability efforts. A digital copy of the manual will be made available for download.

It also features innovative reuse programs of SM Prime’s business units that keep materials in circulation and out of landfills. When done at scale, each contribution can inspire others to follow, creating a ripple effect.  

Learn, practice, champion

Done with great reflection during its incubation stages, SM Waste Free Future presented a rethink of waste segregation habits and systems built over time.

“We have to be open to new ways of doing things and of putting into action every little step that’s crucial for advancing waste management solutions,” said SM Engineering Design and Development President Hans “Chico” Sy, during the 2024 World Environment Day program launch. 

Today, the campaign is deeply encouraged by institutions and agencies that strongly advocate developmental goals. 

In his message of support, Dr. Selva Ramachandran, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), lauded the RDC bin labeling system. “Proper waste segregation is an entry point toward a circular economy – one that goes beyond waste management to design out waste, keep materials in circulation, and regenerate natural systems.” 

Photo caption: Together for a waste-free future, SM Prime sustainability champions at the Ignite Stage during SUSTEX 2025. 

All together now

Together, we are stronger than we realize. “This project is not specific to one organization, but one that belongs to an entire society. We welcome everyone to practice this in their everyday lives,” Sy said. 

To solve a mounting problem requires all hands on deck. SM Prime firmly believes that together, we can create a sustainable, waste-free future.  

“A waste-free future requires shared action from government, business, and communities. May this manual be a catalyst for deeper collaboration, innovation, and circular solutions that support national priorities and the global Sustainable Development Agenda – building systems across sectors that prevent waste, recover valuable resources, and protect our environment for generations to come,” said Dr. Ramachandran.  

Strengthening Cybersecurity Awareness 

The partnership between SM Supermalls and the PNP-ACG highlights their shared mission to raise public awareness on cybercrime prevention. L-R: Karen C. Zabaljauregui, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Lifestyle, Inc., Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Operations Vice President for SM Supermalls, PBGen. Matthew P. Baccay, PNP Acting Director for Investigation and Detention Management, PBGen. Bernard R. Yang, PNP Acting Director for Anti-Cybercrime Group.

Manila, Philippines – September 2, 2025. SM Supermalls and the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) have formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held today at the SM Supermalls Headquarters Boardroom in MOA Square, Pasay City.

The partnership highlights SM Supermalls’ commitment to championing public safety and security by supporting the PNP-ACG’s efforts to raise awareness on cybercrime prevention. Under the agreement, SM Supermalls and SM Cinemas will provide free airtime for the PNP’s educational and awareness campaigns, playing their video advertisements across Cinema and LED screens in malls nationwide. These campaigns are designed to inform the public about the risks of cybercrime, promote responsible digital practices, and encourage proactive community involvement in ensuring online safety.

Cinema Screens for Cyber Safety 

Attendees watch as the PNP-ACG unveils its new video, set to be aired across SM Cinema screens nationwide. The campaign seeks to educate millions of mallgoers on the risks of cybercrime, promote responsible digital practices, and inspire proactive online safety.

The PNP-ACG, the national law enforcement unit mandated to prevent and combat cybercrime, emphasized the importance of public engagement in maintaining peace, order, and security in both digital and physical spaces. The MOA signing marks a strengthened collaboration between government and the private sector to safeguard Filipinos against online threats.

Championing Cyber Safety | PBGen. Matthew P. Baccay, PNP Acting Director for Investigation and Detention Management, delivers his message of support for the nationwide advocacy campaign against cybercrime, reinforcing the call for safer and more responsible digital communities.

Sealed with a Signature | PBGen. Bernard R. Yang, Philippine National Police Acting Director for Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) formalize their partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement signing at the SM Supermalls Headquarters Boardroom, MOA Square, Pasay City.

Safety Beyond Shopping | Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Operations of SM Supermalls, affirms the company’s commitment to providing safe spaces both offline and online during the MOA signing with the PNP-ACG.

“SM Supermalls is more than just a hub for shopping, leisure, and community gatherings. We are also a partner in ensuring the safety and well-being of millions of Filipinos who visit our malls and live their lives online. This partnership with the PNP-ACG is an extension of our mission to provide a secure environment both offline and online,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Operations of SM Supermalls.

A United Front Against Cybercrime | SM Supermalls executives and PNP-ACG officials come together to champion online safety through nationwide awareness campaigns.

This initiative forms part of SM’s broader advocacies in supporting government services, protecting public welfare, and building a safer and more informed community.

For Filipinos, food is an experience. It is the laughter shared over steaming bowls of soup, the thrill of discovering bold flavors, and the joy of chasing the latest food craze. This September, SM Supermalls turns up the heat with the Food Fest at SM—a month-long celebration of flavors, fun, and unforgettable moments!

With this year’s unbeatable dining deals and fresh food discoveries to vibrant markets, giant foodie installations, live music, regional cuisines, and even a paw-ty for pets, Food Fest at SM definitely serves up something for everyone to savor and celebrate.

Get first dibs on the best dining deals

From exclusive SMO Swipe Deals to group dining offers from your favorite restaurants, the SM Food Fest promises scrumptious promos that you and your barkada will not want to miss. Whether you are indulging in your comfort food favorites or discovering bold new tastes, a deal is waiting for you!

Discover new food trends at the Food Market

Craving the next big thing in food? Head to the Food Market where MSMEs and food tenants bring exciting new concepts to life. Get a taste of tomorrow’s food craze today with viral street eats and artisanal specialties you can only find here! 

Snap, share, and savor at the Foodie Snaps Village

Feast your eyes as much as your taste buds! The Foodie Snaps Village features larger-than-life food installations perfect for your next Instagram post. Strike a pose, snap a picture, and make your food fest moments unforgettable.

Groove and grub at Eats and Beats

Good food tastes even better with good music. Catch live busking performances from local artists and students at Eats and Beats while you enjoy your favorite meals. It is dining with a soundtrack you will love.

Explore regional flavors at Eats Local Fest

Journey across the Philippines without leaving the mall. Eats Local Fest celebrates the country’s finest regional cuisines, curated by renowned chefs and presented in awe-inspiring, large-scale displays. Every dish is a story waiting to be savored.

Treat your furbabies at the Big Bites Pawty

Food Fest is not just for humans because your pets are part of the fun too! Bring your furbabies to the Big Bites Pawty where they can enjoy a pet buffet and discover paw-some treats from pet food sellers.

Do not miss the biggest food celebration of the year!

This month, make every mall visit a feast of flavors, sights, and sounds. Food Fest at SM is your ticket to thrilling tastes, Insta-worthy moments, and unforgettable bonding experiences. So mark your calendars, bring your loved ones (and pets!), and join us at SM Supermalls from September 1 to 30 for a food celebration like no other!

“I am happy that they came up with a job fair for government agencies. Many still want to serve and work for our government,” said Ken Gonzaga, who applied for several positions during the Job Fair event held at SM North EDSA.

SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Civil Service Commission (CSC), continues to champion employment opportunities for Filipinos as it rolls out a series of Job Fairs nationwide this September. 

The initiative forms part of the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA), which highlights the enduring legacy of public service every September. Job seekers will gain access to job opportunities in national government agencies, local government units, government-owned and controlled corporations, and state universities and colleges. These job fairs offer job seekers the unique opportunity to find their purpose in public service.

Opening the doors to public service | The Civil Service Commission (CSC) together with SM Supermalls officially opened the Civil Service Anniversary Job Fair at SM City North EDSA in celebration of CSC’s 125th year.

Partners in nation-building | Representatives from CSC and SM Supermalls join forces to bring government sector job opportunities closer to Filipinos. This reaffirms their commitment to empower Filipinos with sustainable careers during the CSC’s 125th Anniversary.

Beyond Employment: Building a Nation of Servants

These job fairs go beyond recruitment. They highlight the critical role of civil service in nation-building, inspiring Filipinos to pursue careers that directly impact communities and transform lives.

Accessible and inclusive | Jobseekers of all ages line up for opportunities at the Job Fair of the Civil Service Commission in partnership with SM Supermalls at SM North EDSA.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan emphasized the importance of the collaboration: “SM is honored to celebrate 125 years of Philippine Civil Service by opening our malls as venues where Filipinos can discover not just jobs, but meaningful careers in public service. By working hand-in-hand with CSC and our government partners, we continue to support an empowered citizenry and sustainable nation-building.”

A Legacy of Service, A Future of Opportunities

The Civil Service Anniversary Job Fairs reaffirmed SM Supermalls’ role as a trusted partner of the government—helping agencies source their talents, empowering jobseekers to find stable and impactful careers, and bringing essential services closer to communities.

For many participants, these job fairs also meant finding purpose in serving the nation. Joanne Moriel, a fresh graduate has her eye on government employment: “Especially with what’s happening now in the country, I want to be part of the public sector to be able to help make a difference.”

As part of the exclusive celebration of the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary, SM Supermalls mounted a series of job fairs nationwide in partnership with the Civil Service Commission. These were held on September 3 at SM City Tuguegarao, September 3–4 at SM CDO Downtown Premier and SM City Butuan, September 4 at SM City North EDSA, September 4–5 at SM City Iloilo, and September 5 at SM City Legazpi. The celebration continues with the final leg happening on September 9 at SM City Baguio.

“Our partnership with SM Supermalls make it easier for Filipinos to explore careers in public service—opportunities that go beyond personal growth and contribute to the progress of our communities and the nation, the place is well-organized, convenient and very accessible for jobseekers” said Mary Grace Dugay, Director III, Civil Service Commission.

Public service careers within reach | Applicants are briefed about available government positions, highlighting the role of public service in building stronger communities.

Through its #SMJobFair campaign, SM Supermalls remains committed to making opportunities in both the private and public sector accessible, convenient, and inclusive—transforming malls into gateways where ordinary Filipinos can build extraordinary futures.

As environmental challenges continue to grow, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. believes that the journey to a better future is built on the mindful choices we make each day and the stronger communities we form when we act together.

This is the heart of the SM Green Movement, SM Prime’s sustainability initiative and call to action for communities across the country. Born during the height of the pandemic, the Green Movement began with personal stories—employees choosing to reduce waste, conserve water, and use energy responsibly, even while under lockdown. These simple acts planted the seeds for something bigger: a movement that brings together the company, communities, and the country in pursuit of shared prosperity and a more climate-resilient future.

Focusing on waste, water, and energy, the SM Green Movement translates ambitious sustainability goals into everyday practices. 

It inspires suppliers, partner-tenants, residents, guests, and mallgoers alike to play their part in shaping greener, more livable cities. Each initiative is anchored on SM Prime’s mission: to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, advance water stewardship, and work towards a waste-free future.

"The SM Green Movement is our way of showing care—care for our planet, and care for the people who live in it," said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin. “We’re not just building malls, homes, or offices—we’re building opportunities for everyone to be part of the solution. And the best part is, it starts with what we do every day.”

Collaboration That Drives Real Change

At the core of the Green Movement is a belief in the power of partnership. Lasting change is not a solo endeavor—it thrives through collaboration. 

SM Prime continues to work hand-in-hand with local government units, NGOs, schools, community groups, and individuals to co-create solutions that meet both environmental needs and everyday realities.

"Our strength as a company comes from our ability to mobilize people around a common cause,” said San Agustin. “The SM Green Movement is all about collective impact. Every bottle recycled, every drop of water saved, every watt conserved adds up.”

A Movement for Generations to Come

Today, the SM Green Movement is a growing platform for advocacy and action. With every new story, every new supporter, and every green step taken, SM Prime is helping to reframe sustainability as something within reach of every Filipino.

Photos

With a 3.785-Megawatt peak (MWp) solar power capacity, the SM City Fairview solar photovoltaic (PV) system has 6,882 solar modules over a total area of 4.3 hectares, currently making it the largest rooftop solar PV system on a commercial building in the country.

At SM City Baguio, water is given a second life. Its water treatment facility helps conserve this vital resource while supporting a greener, more resilient future.

At the Mall of Asia Complex, water trucks carrying 100% recycled water help keep the property’s greenery thriving while promoting responsible water use.

Bin it right! SM Cares promotes proper waste segregation with clearly marked bins for recyclables, disposables, and compostables—helping communities take part in building a waste-free