The Curious Mom

SM City Baguio Turns Rain into Resource

Dec 10, 2025

As water security continues to challenge communities across the Philippines, SM City Baguio is showing how innovation and sustainability can flow together. Through its rainwater treatment facility, the mall treats rainwater to convert into potable water, helping secure tomorrow’s water supply for its operations.

Nestled in the highlands, SM City Baguio showcases how natural abundance can be harnessed sustainably through its rainwater treatment facility.

Baguio City experiences frequent rainfall but limited water resources. Water supply from the Baguio Water District is rationed, with some neighborhoods receiving water only twice a week, which they use to fill up their water tanks. When this runs out, residents depend on deliveries from private water companies.

SM City Baguio’s pioneering system captures, treats, and stores rainwater to potable standards, producing up to 150 cubic meters of safe drinking water per day, with the capacity to double production to 300 cubic meters daily.

Through advanced filtration and treatment systems, SM City Baguio converts collected rainwater into potable-grade water, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in commercial developments

The innovative system supports mall operations and contributes to SM Prime’s Water for Tomorrow campaign, demonstrating responsible and efficient water use.

This initiative reduces reliance on local water utilities while ensuring the mall can continue serving millions of visitors responsibly. More importantly, it demonstrates how rainwater, when managed smartly, can be harnessed to address urban water scarcity.

“We’ve always valued innovation and creativity in the malls – we take it a step further now to where it truly matters. SM City Baguio’s rainwater treatment facility shows how the right innovation can secure tomorrow’s water,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.

Championing Water for Tomorrow

SM Prime’s Water for Tomorrow campaign advocates efficiency, innovation, resilience, and awareness in water resilience, and promotes the wider sustainability campaign of the SM Green Movement. Beyond Baguio, SM Prime’s water initiatives span the installation of advanced treatment facilities, recycling systems, and community engagement programs.

In 2024, SM Prime recorded a 26.23% increase in recycled water volume, rising from 4.42 million cubic meters in 2023 to 5.59 million cubic meters.

The SM Green Movement’s Water for Tomorrow campaign continues to demonstrate how everyday innovation can ensure a sustainable tomorrow—for businesses, communities, and the planet.

COMELEC and SM Supermalls Renew Partnership for Voter Registration and Mall Voting for the 2026 Barangay & SK Elections

COMELEC Commissioner Rey E. Bulay and COMELEC Chairman George Garcia, together with SM Supermalls Vice President for Mall Operations Junias Eusebio and Assistant Vice President Royston Cabunag, formally ink the renewed partnership for Voter Registration and Mall Voting for the upcoming 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and SM Supermalls formally renewed their partnership for the Voter Registration Program and Mall Voting implementation for the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) through a Memorandum of Agreement signing held on December 2 at the COMELEC Office in Intramuros, Manila.

The renewal marks another milestone in both institutions’ shared commitment to making voter services more accessible, safer, and more convenient for Filipinos nationwide.

In his message, SM Supermalls Vice President for Mall Operations, Mr. Junias Eusebio, highlighted the remarkable growth of the partnership over the years—from six participating malls during the 2023 BSKE, to 20 malls successfully joining the Mall Voting Program during the 2025 National and Local Elections. He also emphasized that, as of now, 23 SM malls are already scheduled to serve as voter registration sites—the most nationwide—with more locations to be added through May 2026. During the special registration in August 2025, 47 sites across the country opened their doors to voters, and over 2.8 million Filipinos have already registered in just the last 10 days.

“These numbers reflect not just steady expansion, but the public’s overwhelming preference for organized, secure, and accessible venues where they can register and exercise their right to vote,” he said. “This partnership proves that when the public and private sectors work hand in hand, we can modernize the voting experience and strengthen our democratic participation.”

Supermalls VP for Mall Operations Junias Eusebio spotlights how the Mall Voting Program is expanding to make voting more accessible for Filipinos nationwide.

SM Supermalls executives, led by VP Junias Eusebio, meet with COMELEC Chairman Mr. George Garcia to discuss expanded voter registration activities across SM Supermalls nationwide during the BSKE Mall Voting MOA Signing Ceremony at the COMELEC Office in Intramuros.

COMELEC officials expressed appreciation for SM Supermalls’ continued support, noting how mall-based voter services significantly benefit senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant voters, and first-time youth voters by offering an environment that is comfortable, well-lit, and highly accessible. The partnership comes at an opportune time where strong public participation early in the electoral cycle was evident through the 2.8 million Filipinos that have completed registration in the last 10 days alone.

Through this renewed agreement, selected SM malls across the country will continue to serve as venues for voter registration and mall voting, contributing to higher voter turnout and better overall election experience for communities.

Close-up of the MOA Signing. COMELEC and SM Supermalls officials formally sign the renewed partnership for Voter Registration and Mall Voting for the 2026 Barangay & SK Elections, marking another step in making voting more accessible nationwide.

Representatives from COMELEC and SM Supermalls pose for a ceremonial photo after the signing.

The ceremony was attended by COMELEC Chairman Mr. George Garcia, Commissioners, key agency officials, and SM Supermalls executives represented by Vice President for Mall Operations Mr. Junias Eusebio. The partnership underscores a shared mission: to bring essential voter services closer to the public and to empower every Filipino to participate fully in the country’s democratic processes.

Lifestyle and Looks Made for You

Metro Manila is all about choice—every turn offers something new to try or take home. This season, SM Supermalls brings you openings that spark curiosity, invite you in, and leave you wanting more. From fresh fashion drops to lifestyle essentials, each find is designed to fit seamlessly into your life while adding that extra something you didn’t know you were missing.

At SM Supermalls a bold new era full of evolving finds await—each one thoughtfully chosen to bring fresh styles, unique experiences, and everyday essentials that meet the dynamic lifestyle of every Manileño shopper. It’s truly a space that adapts and grows with you, proving time and time again that SM’s got it all for you.

Step into your Stride

Ready to move through your day in style? These curated picks bring you footwear and apparel that combine premium comfort, performance, and design—so every step looks as good as it feels.

REV* - Step up your style game with REV, making its Philippine debut at the 2nd Level of S Maison. Built for movement and made to look good, their pieces mix sharp design with all-day comfort—perfect for everything from marathons to coffee runs. It’s fashion that never misses and it’s here to keep your style on point

FitFlop - Ready to take a walk on the comfy side? Say hello to FitFlop at the 2nd Level, Building A of SM Megamall, where every pair is made to keep your steps light and your style effortless. From sleek sandals to sporty sneakers, they’ve got just what you need to keep moving all day without a single fashion faux pas. Step in, try them on, and see how good style can feel.

Looks that Speak Volumes

Refresh your wardrobe with fashion that tells your story. From minimalist everyday pieces to romantic statement styles, these picks are made to fit every mood and moment.

Beyond the Vines - Minimalist, functional, and effortlessly cool—Beyond the Vines at the 2nd Level, Building A of SM Megamall brings designs that pull everything together. From roomy carryalls to sleek crossbodies, each piece is made to complement your style while keeping up with the demands of your day. It’s the kind of practicality that makes every outfit feel complete.

Ever New - Ever New at the 2nd Level of SM Aura brings a little romance to your wardrobe with styles made for life’s picture-perfect moments. Think flowing dresses, chic coordinates, and polished staples that feel just right for celebrations big or small. It’s your go-to for outfits that make every moment feel like an occasion.

A Touch of Timeless

Trends come and go, but some pieces outlast every season. That’s why Tessera at the 3rd Level of SM Podium is here for you—a fine jewelry brand chosen for its ability to make every moment feel unforgettable. With designs that pair as effortlessly with a crisp white shirt as they do with evening wear, Tessera offers heirloom-worthy classics and fresh, contemporary styles alike. Each piece is selected to bring a touch of luxury to your every day and make your milestones truly memorable. Because true style isn’t just worn—it’s remembered.

Life in Every Angle

Some moments deserve more than just a quick snap—they deserve to be remembered exactly as they happened. With Insta360 at SM Aura, you can capture life in all its dimensions, from wide-open landscapes to up-close details, all in stunning clarity. Whether you’re chasing new adventures or documenting the everyday, every shot is a chance to tell your story from a fresh perspective. After all, the best memories aren’t just kept—they’re experienced again and again.

Find your next go-to with Metro Manila’s newest fashion and lifestyle finds to mix things up. From new fits to fun gadgets, these hot picks are made to keep up with your mood, style, and pace welcoming you into a #NewEraOfSMSupermalls.

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

SM City La Union Boosts Climate Resilience with Rainwater Catchment System

Dec 9, 2025

With climate change driving heavier rains and more frequent floods, proactive flood prevention has become a key part of building resilient communities.

SM City La Union, now the 30th mall of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) that features a rainwater catchment facility, expands its network of climate-resilient infrastructure nationwide. For SM Supermalls, catchment facilities are designed to collect and store large volumes of stormwater, preventing runoff that could otherwise overwhelm drainage networks.

During heavy rainfall, the catchment temporarily holds stormwater, allowing gradual discharge through proper channels. Collectively, SM City La Union’s underground rainwater catchment system can provide a total capacity of 760 cubic meters

The newly opened SM City La Union becomes the 30th SM mall to install a rainwater catchment system, supporting thousands of residents in flood-prone areas and demonstrating how business innovation protects communities.

A design for tomorrow. SM Supermalls focuses on sustainable water use by managing available resources to meet the needs of future generations.

Each drop contributes to a safer, more sustainable future for all. Mapping every opportunity to achieve Water for Tomorrow, treating and reusing water as a supplemental water source also significantly decreases freshwater consumption. In 2024, SM Prime achieved a 26.23% increase in recycled water volume, rising from 4.42 million cubic meters in 2023 to 5.59 million cubic meters.

Social resilience is equally important as the physical infrastructure. SM Cares raises awareness on water conservation and adopting sustainable practices in daily life, helping to empower community action.

“Our rainwater catchment systems go beyond flood control — they help create safer spaces for our communities. We hope to show how climate-smart infrastructure and innovation can protect lives, livelihoods, and progress,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.

SM Supermalls and DICT launched Digital Corners in SM Job Fairs

SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), has officially introduced Digital Corners to SM Job Fairs—an initiative launched during the J.O.B.S. Immersion for SHS 2025 held at the Skydome, SM City North EDSA.

An innovative learning solution, the Digital Corner is designed as a free, open-access upskilling hub within SM job fair venues. It offers job seekers training opportunities on digital literacy, Python programming, Google Career Certificate courses, basic networking, coding, cybersecurity, and online entrepreneurship.

SM Supermalls champions inclusivity and opportunity, helping create pathways for every Filipino student to succeed.

“This is the next step in our collective efforts to not only match jobs with job seekers but to equip them with future-ready digital skills,” said Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations, SM Supermalls. “By housing this initiative in SM malls, we’re turning job fairs into job-and-learning fairs—places where opportunity and capability meet.” The Digital Corner is expected to benefit thousands of Filipinos annually, especially graduating SHS students preparing to enter the workforce or pursue further training in tech-enabled fields.

DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT STARTS WITH SHS STUDENTS

Nearly 1,000 SHS students, accompanied by parents and teachers from over 40 schools, participated in the J.O.B.S. Immersion for SHS 2025 launch. The event marks the rollout of the Enhanced Work Immersion Pilot (EWIP), a collaboration between the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), with SM Supermalls serving as a key venue and industry partner, alongside SM Retail.

The Skydome at SM City North EDSA buzzed with energy as a thousand of Senior High School Students took their first step from classroom to career during the launch of the J.O.B.S. Immersion for SHS students, a program bridging education and employment opportunities for young learners

The EWIP is transforming the SHS experience by increasing work immersion hours from the current 80–320 hours to 420–640 hours. This expanded, hands-on training is backed by industry partners who co-develop training plans to align classroom learning with real-world skills in sectors like retail, hospitality, and technology.

Interactive booths from DICT and private partners let students explore future career paths and digital upskilling opportunities

At the launch, companies including SM Retail and Newport World Resorts provided students with insights into job expectations and workplace values. Throughout the day, students also attended career readiness sessions with experts and explored opportunities presented by industry and government partners in a special Digital Economy Showcase.