Better Days at SM Brings Hope Closer to Youth

SM Cares’ multi-mall mental health caravan created safe spaces for young people to share, connect, and build resilience

When it comes to mental health, room must be made for young people to be heard and reassure them that their voice has value, their lives are precious. Spaces where they feel safe to speak their mind and seek help matters now more than ever.

In line with its advocacy of empowering the next generation of Filipinos and strengthening communities by providing enriching experiences for the youth, SM Cares mounted Better Days: A Youth Mental Health Caravan. The caravan was hosted in partnership with Mental Health Youth Hub PH, I AM MAD (Making A Difference), the National Youth Commission, and Global Peace Foundation Philippines.

SM Prime joins DILG in launching nationwide Unified 911 for Resilience campaign

The iconic MOA Globe lights up during the launch of the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign, a nationwide initiative led by the DILG in partnership with SM Prime to promote emergency preparedness.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. has partnered with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to launch the Unified 911 for Resilience: National Campaign, a nationwide initiative that aims to strengthen public awareness of emergency preparedness and promote a more coordinated emergency response system across the country.

SM for MSMEs Strengthens Support for Women Entrepreneurs

Discover women-led Filipino brands through WomenBizPH

Every successful business begins with someone brave enough to take the first step. For countless women entrepreneurs, that journey starts with a simple idea, nurtured by passion, strengthened by resilience, and driven by the dream of creating a better future for their families and communities. 

Yet while many have built remarkable products and businesses, one challenge remains constant—finding opportunities to be discovered.

The Blackout Zone: SM Cares, CHED Turn Experience Into Understanding

SM Cares, in partnership with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), brought The Blackout Zone to the CHED Central Office Auditorium at the Higher Education Development Center Building in Diliman, Quezon City from July 21 to 22, 2026.

Developed through SM’s Mall for All drive on inclusivity, the immersive exhibit invited students, educators, and members of the academic community to experience life without sight in a controlled and safe environment. Participants were guided through everyday activities designed to encourage them to look beyond limitations and recognize the abilities, independence, and resilience of people with visual impairments.

Rachel Daquis Named New 1xPlay Ambassador

Volleyball is among the top sports in the Philippines, attracting millions of fans. That is why sports news platform 1xPlay is delighted to announce that Rachel Daquis, one of the biggest stars of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), has become the brand’s new ambassador.

Rachel is deservedly known as the queen of Philippine volleyball. Through her hard work, talent, and remarkable charisma, she has paved the way for an entire generation of aspiring athletes. Her outstanding career includes collegiate championships with FEU, MVP honors at various tournaments, and appearances for the Philippine national team.

Why Indigenous Knowledge Matters More Than Ever in Building Sustainable Food Systems

Women’s Group in the Village of Mlaswat

As global demand for sustainable and plant-based ingredients continues to grow, there is renewed appreciation for the knowledge Indigenous communities have safeguarded for generations. In the Philippines, this offers an opportunity to rediscover sago, not simply as an ingredient in familiar desserts like halo-halo and taho, but as a versatile crop with the potential to nourish communities, preserve cultural heritage, and support more sustainable livelihoods. 

That vision is already taking root in Caraga, where the Manobo community established the country's first sago palm flour enterprise. It stands as an example of how indigenous knowledge can create lasting opportunities, adding value to a traditional crop while strengthening local livelihoods and inspiring the next generation to carry these practices forward. That indigenous production base lines up with the region's broader trajectory, since Asia Pacific held over 50% of global sago revenue as of 2023, with production in countries like Indonesia and the Philippines driving that dominance.

MDPPA reports resilient Philippine motorcycle market in first half of 2026 despite softer June performance

Strong Q1 offsets softer Q2 as motorcycles remain an essential mobility solution for Filipinos

The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) reported total motorcycle sales of 939,528 units from January to June 2026, representing a 3.58 percent increase over the 907,054 units sold during the same period last year.

Despite a more challenging market environment following an exceptionally strong first half in 2025, the industry maintained positive momentum, reflecting the continued importance of motorcycles as an essential mobility solution for Filipinos. 

The industry's first half performance was anchored by a strong start to the year. Sales in the first quarter reached 496,868 units, an 11.6 percent increase over the same period in 2025. While the second quarter recorded 442,660 units, or 4.2 percent lower than the 462,007 units posted during the same period last year, the gains achieved in the opening quarter helped keep overall first half sales firmly in positive territory.

Malaysia to Host 4th ASEAN Battery Technology Conference as ASEAN Moves to Scale Battery Industry

ABTC 2026 will gather policymakers, manufacturers, investors and researchers in Sepang to advance battery manufacturing, safety, investment and market deployment across the region

Putrajaya: Malaysia will host the 4th ASEAN Battery Technology Conference (ABTC 2026) from 19 to 21 August 2026 at the Mövenpick Hotel & Convention Centre KLIA, Sepang, placing the country at the centre of ASEAN’s next major conversation on battery industrialisation.

Organised by NMB (NanoMalaysia Berhad), ABTC 2026 will be held under the theme “Industrialising Battery Technologies: Strengthening ASEAN’s Battery Value Chain for Global Competitiveness”. The conference comes as demand for electric mobility, renewable energy storage and battery-enabled technologies continues to grow across ASEAN and beyond, creating new opportunities for the region to scale its role in the global battery economy.

Building a Sustainable Local Cacao Business: Lessons from a Women-Led Village Enterprise

In Pejalin Village, Indonesia, women are turning cacao into premium chocolate while protecting nature.

Chocolate fever is sweeping the globe. From the rise of premium chocolate trends in Europe to the viral "Dubai chocolate" phenomenon on social media, cacao has once again ascended as a high-value commodity. Yet cacao is far from a new crop in the Philippines. Introduced during the Spanish colonial period, it has long been woven into Filipino culture through traditional products such as tablea and tsokolate de batirol. Today, chocolate is no longer just a confectionery staple, it is a premium product that reflects origin, craftsmanship, and sustainability.

The Philippines is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing global demand for cacao, with the country's chocolate confectionery market projected to reach USD 707.52 million by 2030. To ensure this growth translates into long-term value for farmers and the industry, the Department of Agriculture and industry stakeholders have launched the Philippine Cacao Industry Roadmap 2026–2030, which aims to build a more productive, profitable, resilient, and globally competitive cacao sector. The roadmap comes as the Philippines continues to gain international recognition, including being named among the world's Top 50 Cacao of Excellence producers, reflecting the country's potential to compete in the premium cacao market.

Building a Sustainable Local Cacao Business: Lessons from a Women-Led Village Enterprise

In Pejalin Village, Indonesia, women are turning cacao into premium chocolate while protecting nature.

Chocolate fever is sweeping the globe. From the rise of premium chocolate trends in Europe to the viral "Dubai chocolate" phenomenon on social media, cacao has once again ascended as a high-value commodity. Yet cacao is far from a new crop in the Philippines. Introduced during the Spanish colonial period, it has long been woven into Filipino culture through traditional products such as tablea and tsokolate de batirol. Today, chocolate is no longer just a confectionery staple, it is a premium product that reflects origin, craftsmanship, and sustainability.

The Philippines is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing global demand for cacao, with the country's chocolate confectionery market projected to reach USD 707.52 million by 2030. To ensure this growth translates into long-term value for farmers and the industry, the Department of Agriculture and industry stakeholders have launched the Philippine Cacao Industry Roadmap 2026–2030, which aims to build a more productive, profitable, resilient, and globally competitive cacao sector. The roadmap comes as the Philippines continues to gain international recognition, including being named among the world's Top 50 Cacao of Excellence producers, reflecting the country's potential to compete in the premium cacao market.

SNAP-Benguet recognized by ERC for operational excellence

SNAP AVP for Regulatory Affairs Andrea Toyoda receives award from ERC Chairperson and CEO Francis Saturnino Juan, DOE Secretary Sharon Garin, and ERC commissioners Marko Romeo Fuentes, Floresinda Baldo-Digal, Paris Real, and Amante Liberato

SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet, Inc. (SNAP-Benguet) was recognized by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for Binga hydroelectric power plant’s outstanding operational performance and steadfast commitment to ensuring reliable and secure electricity supply. The award was presented during the ERC’s 25th Founding Anniversary celebration on June 26, 2026.

How Cassava Is Evolving From a Commodity Crop Into a Source of Health and Opportunity

Siak, Indonesia’s Telarasa transforms cassava into healthier food products and community opportunities.

Wibowo Nugroho engaging in a brand consultation

Cassava has shaped Southeast Asia's agricultural history for centuries. It became a vital crop because of its ability to thrive in poor soils and withstand drought. In countries such as the Philippines and Indonesia, cassava served as a reliable food source during periods of scarcity before evolving into an important commodity for the food, feed, starch, and biofuel industries. Today, its resilience and versatility are giving the crop new relevance beyond food security, including meeting Asia’s growing demand for healthier and more inclusive dietary options.

Empowering Education: Vena Energy Mobilizes Teams and Resources Across the Philippines for Brigada Eskwela

Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment, renewable energy leader Vena Energy, together with its project companies across the Philippines, has mobilized resources and volunteers in support of the Department of Education's (DepEd) annual Brigada Eskwela program.

Through targeted donations of maintenance materials, classroom equipment, and employee volunteerism, Vena Energy has provided meaningful support to public schools within its host communities, helping create safe, clean, and conducive learning environments for thousands of students as they prepare for the new academic year.

This nationwide initiative reflects Vena Energy's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment to advancing education and strengthening community resilience alongside its mission of delivering clean energy. By partnering closely with educators, local government units, and community stakeholders, the company continues to contribute to long-term, sustainable development in the areas where it operates.

SNAP-Benguet earns EMB-CAR BADANG Excellence Award on Solid Waste Management

SN Aboitiz Power Benguet Inc. (SNAP-Benguet) received the BADANG Excellence Award for Solid Waste Management for its exemplary solid waste management practices during the 9th Cordillera Environmental Summit, on June 30, 2026 in Baguio City. 

Awarded by the Environmental Management Bureau–Cordillera Administrative Region (EMB-CAR), the BADANG Excellence Awards recognize industries and institutions with outstanding environmental programs and best practices that contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection in the Cordillera Region. Categories include Hazardous Waste Management, Wastewater Treatment and Water Conservation, Air Quality Monitoring and Management, Solid Waste Management, and Environmental IEC Leadership.

YGC Invests in Global Education to Further National Growth

The Yuchengco Group of Companies’ (YGC) House of Investments (HI) continues to boost its contributions toward nation-building through strategic global partnerships under its education investment arm, iPeople, Inc. Through iPeople’s Mapúa schools, a collaboration with Arizona State University (ASU) has been established—setting the tone for the group’s long-term vision of creating sustainable futures where Filipinos can thrive and compete globally. 

“With YGC’s visionary leadership and steadfast support, iPeople schools are fully empowered to deliver world-class education to Filipino students. We want to continue developing highly employable, future-ready Filipino graduates who are more equipped to adapt to global events, thus increasing economic productivity, national stability, and eventually global recognition,” says Dr. Dodjie Maestrecampo, President and CEO of Mapúa University and the Mapúa Education Group.

Mapúa University is one of the network of schools under iPeople, which also includes Malayan Colleges Laguna, Malayan Colleges Mindanao, Malayan High School of Science, National Teachers College, and University of Nueva Caceres. 

Waste-Free Starts With Us

SM Cares marks World Oceans Day 2026 with coastal cleanup efforts for a waste-free future

7,500 SM employees, volunteers and partners mobilized for World Oceans Day 2026 to divert waste from the sea

This World Oceans Day, SM Cares brought the SM Green Movement to shore, reminding communities that protecting the ocean begins long before waste reaches the sea.

In celebration of World Oceans Day 2026, SM Cares led coastal cleanup efforts under the banner “Empowering Communities for an SM Waste-Free Future,” mobilizing 7,500 employees, tenants, volunteers, partners, and local stakeholders to take part in shared action for cleaner coastlines and healthier marine ecosystems. 19,000 kilograms of trash was successfully diverted from the ocean 36% less than the previous year.

SM Supermalls launches Sustainability Digest

A comprehensive look at how SM Supermalls supports greener communities

A supplementary report on environmental impact: The SM Supermalls Sustainability Digest 2025: Work and Wins showcases how sustainability is deeply ingrained in SM’s mall operations for the benefit of its customers and surrounding communities

(L-R: Bel Gonzales, SM Supermalls Section Head for Sustainability; Kitchie Limoanco, SM Supermalls SVP for Corporate Marketing and Public Relations; George Cheung, SM Supermalls AVP for Waste Management & Sustainability Solutions; Engr. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls VP for Corporate Compliance and Sustainability; Engr. Junias Eusebio, SM Supermalls VP for Operations; Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls EVP for Marketing; Engr. Charles Singson, SM Supermalls AVP for Mall Operations, Mina Kahn, SM Supermalls AVP for Transport Management)  

SNAP highlights watershed and environmental conservation in observance of World Environment Day

In celebration of World Environment Day, SN Aboitiz Power Group (SNAP) reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship through watershed management, reforestation, forest protection, and community-based conservation programs. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives, SNAP continues to promote climate resilience and sustainable development in its host communities.

Chevron Batangas Terminal supports sea turtle hatching and population growth

Olive Ridley sea turtle hatchlings emerge at the Chevron Batangas Terminal.

Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI) successfully released 146 sea turtle hatchlings into open waters recently, bringing the total number of turtles nurtured through the program to 4,261 over the years. Each release represents a meaningful step toward supporting the growth of the species in Batangas and maintaining balance within the local marine ecosystem.

This milestone is part of CPI’s sustained commitment to environmental stewardship, anchored in nearly two decades of coastal cleanup initiatives along its Batangas terminal. These efforts have helped transform sections of the shoreline into safer nesting grounds for Olive Ridley sea turtles—a species increasingly threatened by illegal trade and plastic pollution. By maintaining cleaner, more protected coastal environments, CPI continues to support conditions where marine life can thrive.

Vena Energy Marks World Environment Day with Major Tree-Planting Initiative in Antipolo, Rizal, Philippines

Vena Energy, a leading green energy solutions provider in the Asia-Pacific region, marked World Environment Day with a large-scale ceremonial tree-planting initiative in Sitio Kilingan, Barangay San Jose, Antipolo City, Rizal. The activity brought together 19 employee volunteers from across the organization and 100 members of the local People’s Organization, a community conservation group, to support the national goal of planting at least five million trees nationwide by 2028.