Financial Stress and Work Pressure Drive Record-High Anxiety Among Filipino Workers, New MindNation Survey Finds

MindNation Mental Health Awareness Month campaign calls for urgent action in the workplace.

Mental health and well-being organization MindNation reports a significant rise in mental health challenges based on its 2024 WellBeing Survey, compared to data from 2022. This signals an urgent need for action as we navigate further into 2025. With insights from over 13,000 respondents, the data shows a growing number of Filipino employees facing heightened levels of stress, worry, and sadness.

Compared to 2022, the percentage of individuals reporting stress rose from 57% to 72% in 2024. Reports of worry surged even higher, with a 21-point jump from 47% to 68%. Feelings of sadness also increased from 34% to 50% – a clear sign that emotional fatigue and mental burnout are becoming everyday experiences for many.

World Slasher Cup-2 first day elims today

Top cockfighters from around the world will battle it out in today's first day of the elimination round of this year's second edition of World Slasher Cup 9-Cock Invitational Derby at the historic Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The derby's first elimination round will feature 70 match-ups of the best cockfighters, starting at 1 p.m.

Top fighters competing in today's elimination round are legendary breeder/cocker Nene Abello, two-time WSC champ Honey Yu,  Dela Cruz brothers, respected master breeder Joe Alimbuyugen, Jimmy Junsay, Anthony Ramos, Tony Tumalad, Carrie Chua, Engr. Emer Sumigad, Fiscal Moises Villanueva, Dicky Lim, Doc Ayong Lorenzo, Jojo Gatlabayan, Raffy Turingan, Mike Romulo, James Uy, and eight-time WSC champ Frank Berin to name a few.

Fighters with 2-0 record will advance to the 3-cock semi-finals on May 23, Friday, while those who scored at least a point in today's first round elimination to stay in contention for the title. 

Fans who wish to witness the action live at the Smart Araneta Coliseum may get their tickets at Ticketnet or at www.worldslashercup.ph. 

Empowered to Protect: April Coastal Cleanups

SM By the BAY Empowers 272 Volunteers to Clean Over a Ton of Trash in April Coastal Cleanup Drive

True to its commitment to environmental stewardship, SM By the Bay mobilized 272 employees and volunteers to collect 1,147 kilograms of trash throughout the month of April as part of its weekly coastal cleanup efforts.

Volunteers from SM Supermalls—including employees, customer relations staff, and janitorial personnel—come together after a successful coastal cleanup at SM By the Bay, united by a shared commitment to protecting our oceans and building a #SMWasteFreeFuture.

SM Supermalls and ASP ink partnership for autism-inclusive employment

SM Supermalls has partnered with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) to create work opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum and help them succeed in the retail industry. This collaboration reflects SM’s enduring commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across its operations. This newly inked partnership builds on that legacy, ensuring more meaningful, sustainable roles for talents on the spectrum within the SM ecosystem. SM Markets pioneered autism-inclusive hiring back in 2016.

A ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was held at Book Nook in SM Podium, marking the beginning of an inspiring new chapter in inclusive employment. Book Nook, a flagship community learning hub under SM Cares, will soon welcome individuals on the spectrum as Book Nook concierges, bringing SM’s inclusive vision to life in a space that champions learning, connection, and belonging.

Earth Day Run 2025 empowers thousands at SM MOA Complex

SM Mall of Asia (MOA) once again became a powerful symbol of hope, movement, and collective action as 13,500 runners laced up to celebrate Earth Day 2025 through the Galaxy Earth Day Run Manila Leg. More than just a simple race, the event was a bold statement: when we run together, we move closer to a sustainable future.

For the second year in a row, Samsung powered this meaningful initiative, driving a message of sustainability, innovation, and meaningful movement. The Earth Day Run featured 5K, 10K, and 21K categories, offering participants from all walks of life a chance to turn their passion for running into impactful action for the planet.

Riding Smart in the Heat: MDPPA’s Essential Tips for Summer Motorcycle Safety

From the excellent visibility to dry and clear roads, there are numerous ways the summer season can make motorcycle riding a total breeze. And while riding during the cooler times of day not only adds comfort but also helps save on fuel, summer brings the challenge of staying safe and cool under the intense heat of the sun. 

To help our Tropang MAALAM riders cruise through the summer safely, we have listed down some essential tips on how they can beat the heat and protect themselves and their motorcycles during the warmer months.

Stay hydrated

Dehydration can cause fatigue, dizziness, and poor concentration, which are dangerous for riders. Always bring a reusable water bottle and drink water regularly, especially during long rides. Consider hydration packs for convenience. If you’re riding for hours, take short breaks in shaded areas to cool off and rehydrate.

SM Cinema Brings Magic Through ‘Movies for the Blind’

For most, watching a movie is an everyday treat. But for those with visual impairments, it’s often an experience left out of reach. Led by Project ADAM (Audio Description Awareness Movement), SM Cares, SM Cinema, GMA Pictures, GMA Public Affairs, and Hit Productions Inc., with support from The Nippon Foundation, Overbrook School for the Blind, CBM Global, ICEVI, Beneficent Technology, Inc. (Bookshare) and Quantum Post, families and individuals across the country are discovering the magic of the movies—together.

SM Cinema at SM City Calamba is filled with heart warming applause and positive vibes during the 'Movies for the Blind' screening.

As part of SM Supermalls’ ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion, SM malls have begun hosting audio-described film screenings specially designed for persons who are blind or visually impaired. These unique screenings include narrated descriptions of scenes, settings, and actions, allowing all moviegoers to share in the full experience.