Communities across the country are coming together to celebrate the power of storytelling and creativity through Book Nook, a free reading and activity space designed to inspire learning, self-expression, and inclusivity.
This year, Book Nook expands beyond book readings with a lineup of art workshops, cultural activities, and interactive storytelling sessions at SM Aura and SM Podium, inviting families, students, and aspiring creatives to explore new ideas and perspectives.
SM Southmall came alive as SM Cares and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI) hosted the second edition of Happy Talk: Usapang Down Syndrome 2025. The event gathered over 600 participants, including government officials, educators, therapists, and community stakeholders, to raise awareness and create safer, more inclusive spaces for individuals with Down syndrome.
"Through Happy Talk, we are reminded that inclusion is not just about understanding—it’s about action. Every shared story and effort brings us closer to a world where individuals with Down syndrome are embraced and celebrated," said Luis M. Harder, President of DSAPI.
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Riding with your O.B.R. (official back rider) is one of the best ways to share the road and make memories together—but safety should always come first. A smooth, secure ride is not just about skill; it’s about responsibility, awareness, and proper preparation.
As part of its commitment to road safety and responsible riding, the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA)—through its “Tropang MAALAM” campaign—reminds all riders that the key to a safe and enjoyable trip with a passenger starts with the right habits. Whether it’s a short city ride or a long road trip, knowing how to properly accommodate and protect your O.B.R. is a must.
Here’s a quick and easy guide to making every ride with your back rider safe, comfortable, and worry-free.
Over 12 million kilos of recyclables collected in 2024.
Every first Friday and Saturday of the month, SM Supermalls transforms into a hub of sustainability through its nationwide ‘Trash to Cash’ (TTC) recycling market, where individuals can exchange recyclable waste for cash. This initiative, part of SM Supermalls’ Waste-Free Future campaign, has been a long-running program since 2007 that encourages waste segregation, recycling, and environmental awareness while also benefiting communities financially.
SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, has joined hands with the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Philippines to support the transformative All Lights Village project. This partnership was solidified with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on February 14, 2025, at the SM Prime Headquarters, marking another significant step forward in promoting sustainable development and empowering underprivileged communities in off-grid areas.
Madiskarte Moms PH, the online community of women and mompreneurs in the Philippines, took centerstage at the first-ever Asia-Pacific UN Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards. The forum and awards ceremony celebrated companies championing gender equality in the region, and highlighted critical topics such as women entrepreneurship and digital inclusivity.
Athena Denise Galao, Country Program Coordinator of UN Women Philippines, led the discussion with the panel composed of women leaders Melissa Vergel de Dios, PLDT Chief Sustainability Officer and advocate for Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH); Ahyee Campos of GoDigital Pilipinas and Country Head of Infosys BPM Philippines; NEDA Undersecretary Atty. Krystal Lyn Uy; and Connected Women CEO Agnes Gervacio.
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The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA), a consortium of four major Japanese motorcycle manufacturers—Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, and its newest member, TVS Philippines, has reported a 7% increase in motorcycle sales for 2024.
The total wholesale sales recorded by MDPPA members reached 1,682,482 units in 2024, marking the highest sales figure in the past five years. This is a significant rise compared to 1,577,597 units sold in 2023. In comparison, motorcycle sales in 2022 and 2021 were 1,564,827 units and 1,435,677 units, respectively. Prior to the pandemic in 2020, MDPPA’s total sales were around 1.2 million units. The 2019 sales figure remains a peak year, with 1.7 million units sold.
“Despite ongoing challenges in the industry, MDPPA is pleased to share that the 7% growth achieved in 2024 is the highest among our ASEAN neighbors,” Alex Cumpas, President of MDPPA, noted. “Indonesia and Malaysia experienced a growth of 2%, while others within the region recorded minimal growth numbers. We are hopeful that the golden years of 2019, when we recorded sales of 1.7 million units, could be surpassed this year in 2025.”
