Mickey & Minnie Mouse goes local with ‘Mickey Go Philippines’ at SM Supermalls!

Disney’s most-loved iconic characters Mickey and Minnie Mouse have delighted the hearts of many across decades, and this year SM Supermalls and Disney have teamed up to launch the Mickey Go Philippines collection at The SM Store, featuring a range of merchandise with a Pinoy twist! What’s more, SM and Disney have planned a surprise virtual party for Mickey and Minnie on their birthday this November 27, and we’re expecting you to join us!

Be among the first to get exclusive Mickey Go PH merchandise! Get first dibs on adorable Mickey and Minnie collectibles from clothes and footwear to tote bags, pillows, tumblers, kitchen appliances, and more! Mickey Go PH and Mickey & Minnie classic merchandise will be available at the live selling events on:

November 18 at 1pm-2m via Toy Kingdom’s official Facebook page

November 24 at 1pm -2pm via The SM Store’s official Facebook page

Join Mickey & Minnie’s first virtual surprise birthday party! After you’ve shopped to your heart’s content during the live-selling events on Facebook, or at participating SM Store branches, you will automatically get a code to enter the virtual surprise birthday party on November 27. All you need is a minimum of PHP 500 single-receipt purchase of Mickey Go PH or Mickey Mouse Classic merchandise in any participating The SM Store (Character Shop, Kids’ Wear, Boy’s Teens Wear, Girl’s Teens Wear, Kids’ Shoes, Baby Company & Toy Kingdom Express) or Toy Kingdom outlet.

To join, simply scan the QR code to register from November 23-25. A confirmation email or SMS from SM Supermalls with the website link and passcode will be sent to you to join Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Birthday Party! Mark your calendars so you don’t miss out on this big day filled with fun games, activities, and surprises!

Help Plan Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Birthday Party! Join us as we secretly plan for

Mickey and Minnie’s party! Don’t spoil the fun okay? There are lots of games and prizes to be won! Kids will also get the chance to greet both of them and create their very own birthday card which they will be making during the event! Mickey and Minnie will surely appreciate the sweet gesture! After all the fun and games, it’s time to meet & greet Minnie, so get ready to strike a pose. Mickey and Minnie are excited to meet their Filipino fans!

It’s going to be one special and memorable surprise birthday party for Mickey and Minnie, and we want you and your kids to join us! It’s time to bring back the nostalgia and relive your favorite childhood memories with Mickey & Minnie by celebrating their birthday only at SM Supermalls!

SM implements strict #SafeMallingAtSM protocols nationwide and offers an equally convenient online shopping option with the SM Malls Online app on the Google Play or App Store. For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts.

Malaysian mall group impressed by SM best practices

Malaysia Shopping Malls Association, also known as Persatuan Pengurusan Kompleks (PPK Malaysia), expressed fascination over SM Supermalls’ facilities and operations during a recent visit to the country. The group’s representatives were in the country to tour local malls, including SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia and SM Aura.

While this isn’t PPK Malaysia’s first visit to the Philippines, this year’s study tour introduces a new aspect of the trip, which is to focus more on mall operations apart from design and architecture, format, retail mix, marketing and promotions.

 “The tour is about learning new concepts and new ways of mall management. We also get exposed on how cultures and other malls differ when it comes to mall designs, operations and marketing,” said Vincent Chong, PPK Malaysia assistant treasurer.

PPK Malaysia Executive Director Evelyn Lo said that members of the tour group were particularly impressed with SM Aura’s sky garden and SM’s overall security features.

“I think they were impressed and taken aback by SM Aura’s top floor—that it’s outdoor. We don’t do that in Malaysia. Malaysian malls are enclosed and air-conditioned,” Lo revealed. “They also found it interesting that there are a number of security guards in Philippine malls and all your guards are local people. Back home, the guards are mostly non-locals. We found out today that metal detectors have long been a part of your shopping culture and we don’t have it there (Malaysia) yet. You also have K9 dogs inside the malls. We usually place K9 dogs outside the malls,” Lo revealed.

When asked about the best practices of SM, Chong mentioned important highlights. “We find that you are able to get the locals to come in and join in the security department. The group noticed that not only are they willing to become security personnel and proud of the job they’re doing, they consider it a good career. If it can be done here, we should be able to do it back home,” he said.

 “We come to Manila in general because the shopping scene here is great.  It’s so vibrant. You have mid-range malls like SM Megamall which includes a higher end Fashion Hall area. There’s SM Aura which has a different format while the SM Mall of Asia is huge. We have to learn more about the mall industry from the outside but in Asian context,” Chong noted.

PPK Malaysia is a group that conducts regular study tours to learn the best mall practices in the region. It is the recognized representative of shopping centers in Malaysia whose members obtain first-hand notification and information on nationwide issues and events affecting the industry.


*This is Press Release

Multi-talented Anne Curtis Turns A Page as Book Author

Just when one thinks she has done it all, multi-talented actress and UNICEF Celebrity Advocate for Children Anne Curtis is making another mark in her illustrious career – this time, as a children’s book author for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). On February 19, Anne will be signing her book entitled “Anita, the Duckling Diva” at SM North EDSA The Block during the Children First! Storybooks launch.

Anne’s fondness for children has been evident among her followers and fans. As an advocate of UNICEF, she is lending her lesser known talent as a writer to help the organization raise funds for its various programs for less privileged children in the Philippines. These include programs on education; health and nutrition; water, sanitation, and hygiene; child protection, and disaster risk and reduction and emergencies.

Aside from Anne’s book, UNICEF will also launch five of its own children’s books: Ang Sabi ni Nanay, Ang Sabi ni Tatay by Sacha Calagopi; Ang Dalawang Haring Siga by Rene O. Villanueva; Ang Bata sa Basket by Augie Rivera; Yaya Niya, Nanay Ko by Ma. Corazon Remigio; and Nina Wonders, Nina Asks by Marcy Dans Lee. Each book has both English and Filipino text to encourage wider readership.

From February 19 to 25, an exhibit will be showcasing original artworks from UNICEF’s books. These artworks are created by members of Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan (INK), which is the first and only organization of Filipino illustrators for children.

The public will also be given a chance to contribute to the organization’s programs for children throughout the weeklong exhibit. Anne will likewise read to children in the venue along with other featured storytellers on the day of the UNICEF Children First! Storybooks launch.

The event is being made possible by a partnership between UNICEF and SM Cares. A corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares maintains various programs that focus on children’s and women’s welfare, elderly care, PWD inclusion, and other endeavors that makes the mall a “mall for all”. The two organizations have been partners since 2008.

To know more about the event, you may call UNICEF at 758-1000.

*This is Press Release

Global Footwear Brands Now at SM Seaside City Cebu

Global footwear brands Ipanema, Grendha, Rider, Zaxy, Anacapri and Söfft find their new Southern home at Cebu’s seaside lifestyle complex, SM Seaside City. Located inside SM Department Store, these brands offer trendy and fashionable footwear perfect for Cebu’s discerning market.


Exclusively distributed by ELRO Retail Corporation, these footwear brands feature a full range of stylish footwear products from flip flops to sandals all the way to comfortable flats and shoes all designed using innovative materials without sacrificing the latest fashion trends.

“Since our arrival in the Queen City of the South, we’ve seen the fast-growing presence of our brands to our Cebuano customers,” says Francisco R. Elizalde, ELRO Retail Corp President. “Our strong presence in SM Department Store allows us to delight more customers with products that offer comfort and style. And to further extend our reach in the Visayan market, we’ve decided to bring in more of our house brands to Cebu.”

This holiday season Cebuanos have more reasons to shop and be in fashion with Ipanema flip flops made from super soft and durable Flexpand 100% recyclable material. They can also enjoy Zaxy’s feminine patterns to keep young girls and teens feeling carefree, confident and stylish.

For those who would like to bring out a classier look, they can slip on Grendha’s playful yet chic sandals and wedges. Anacapri’s trendy ballerina flats, on the other hand, will let them go around the city with utmost comfort and style. But for those with more refined taste, they can try out Söfft’s premium leathers to show off their sophisticated side.

For men and women who are more adventurous, Rider footwear offers a line of trendy and durable sandals and thongs so they can enjoy their active lifestyles.

These new brands definitely deserve a visit from Cebuanos who are looking for stylish, high-quality and comfortable footwear. For more information about the latest products, check out their Facebook accounts: Ipanema Philippines, Rider Philippines, Grendha Philippines, Zaxy Philippines, Sofft Philippines and Anacapri Philippines.

Top 10 Philippine Real Estate News for 2015

The year 2015 was an eventful one for Philippine real estate. It was a roller-coaster ride that coursed through both news of optimistic growth, and the not-so-positive issues that affected everyone involved in the real estate business.  Either way, these happenings helped shape the local real estate scene to what it is now, and could give us an indication of what’s in store for 2016. To refresh your memory, MyProperty.ph offers a look back at 10 of the biggest real estate-related news of the year.

A way to monitor real estate prices. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is preparing to launch a residential real estate price index (RRPI) that aims to track property prices in Metro Manila, as well as nearby provinces. According to the BSP, the RRPI, which will include information on costs of construction materials and types of houses being built, will help determine the formation of a housing bubble so that preventive actions can be taken.

Rise of the townships. The year 2015 saw the rise of townships all over the country by different property giants. Megaworld Corp. alone launched five townships this year: Sta. Barbara Heights (Sta. Barbara, Iloilo), The Upper East and Northill Gateway (both in Bacolod, Negros Occidental), Westside City (Bay City, Parañaque), and a still-unnamed township in San Fernando, Pampanga. Ayala Land added two townships to their growing portfolio: Cloverleaf in Balintawak, Quezon City; and Capitol Central in Bacolod. Meanwhile, Vista Land and Lifescapes, Inc. is ramping up the development of Vista City, a 1,500-hectare “communicity” located at the boundaries of Cavite, Laguna, Las Piñas and Muntinlupa; and SM Prime is continuing to expand the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay.

Pampanga’s continuous boom as a real estate destination. Pampanga is experiencing a gradual rise in real estate activity with the launch of several big-ticket developments this year. One is the aforementioned San Fernando township project by Megaworld, who plans to incorporate a cyberpark into the development to accommodate the city’s growing BPO sector. Also located in San Fernando, Century Properties’ Azure North is the brand’s addition to their line of resort-inspired developments. Filinvest Land will be working alongside Bases Conversion and Development Authority to develop the 288-hectare Clark Green City, which is designed to be the country’s first-ever smart, green, and disaster-resilient metropolis.

SM Group dominates Philippines Property Awards 2015. This year’s Philippines Property Award saw the domination of the SM Group as it took home several recognitions, including the most-coveted “Best Developer” for SM Prime Holdings. SM Prime was also awarded “Best Retail Development” and “Best Retal Architecture” for SM Megamall’s Mega Fashion Hall. SM Development Corporation (SMDC) bagged the “Best Landscape Architectural Design” for Shell Residences, “Best Affordable Condo Development (Metro Manila) award for Mezza II Residences, and several “Highly Commended” certificates for various categories.

The opening of the Muntinlupa–Cavite Expressway (MCX). Presenting an opportunity to further boost the viability of the south as an investment destination was the launch of the Muntinlupa–Cavite Expressway (MCX), a 4-kilometer, 4-lane toll road that connects Bacoor, Cavite, to the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). According to the Department of Public Works and Highways, the MCX will cut travel time between southern Metro Manila and Cavite by an average of 45 minutes, providing quick and easy access to the major real estate developments in the Cavite, Las Piñas, and Muntinlupa area.

Lower Pag-IBIG housing loan interest rates. Aspiring homeowners received good news when the Pag-IBIG Fund announced that they will be charging lower interest rates for housing loans. On June 1, 2015, Pag-IBIG began implementing a 6.5% interest for loans with a 3-year fixed period. Additionally, the following rates were implemented alongside their corresponding fixed-term periods: 7.270% for 5 years, 8.035% for 10 years, 8.585% for 15 years, 8.8% for 20 years, 9.05% for 25 years, and 10% for 30 years.

Tighter standards in bank loans for commercial real estate. In the second quarter of 2015, banks continued to implement stricter lending standards in terms of loans granted to property developers. According to the results of the second quarter 2015 Senior Bank Loan Officers’ Survey, there was a net tightening of overall credit standards for commercial real estate loans that, according to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, was attributed to the said “perceived stricter oversight of banks’ real estate exposure along with banks’ reduced tolerance for risk.”

A second chance for broker exam non-passers. For aspiring real estate brokers, the May 24, 2015, licensure exam would have been their last chance to earn their license even without earning a real estate management degree, which meant bad news for non-passers. However, the Professional Regulation Commission – Board of Real Estate Service (PRBRES) announced that it will give non-passers a second chance by offering another brokers’ exam on February 28, 2016. According to PRBRES Chairman Eduardo G. Ong, this move was done “to show that our industry and the real estate service profession is a very robust profession, that we want everybody to be on board.”

Disasters that call for change. As news of the devastating earthquake in Nepal back in April resonated across the world, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) revealed that a greatly damaging 7.2-magnitude earthquake caused by the West Valley Fault can potentially occur in Metro Manila in our lifetime. PHIVOLCS warned homeowners of the importance of choosing a home built away from fault lines, and one that’s disaster-resilient at that. Meanwhile, worsening traffic conditions in Metro Manila seem to have hit an all-time high this year, leading netizens to choose the area as the city with the worst traffic conditions in a survey conducted by navigation app Waze. As the Metro Manila Development Authority asks the public to brace itself for another 15 years of road gridlock, several possible solutions are raised, such as moving to homes closer to work to eliminate the need for commuting or driving and better project planning to avoid adding to traffic in highly congested areas.

The Torre de Manila case. No condominium made more headlines this year (albeit for adverse reasons) than DMCI Homes’ Torre de Manila, a residential condo rising 49 stories along Taft Avenue. In 2014, a petition was filed by the Order of the Knights of Rizal asking the Supreme Court to halt the construction of Torre de Manila as it is said to taint the iconic sightline of Luneta Park’s Rizal Monument. A temporary restraining order was issued by the Supreme Court in June 2015 to halt the project’s construction, although a final decision on whether to demolish the tower or allow DMCI Homes to complete it has yet to be reached.


ABOUT MYPROPERTY.PH

Established in September 2010, MyProperty.ph is a leading Philippine real estate online and print brand that brings property buyers and sellers together. The website’s main offerings are listings of pre-selling properties and properties for sale and for rent. Both website and magazine also provide relevant and updated industry news and information for its clients and consumers

SM Holds First Religious Art Exhibit in Pampanga

Angeles, Pampanga. October 2015 – SM, in partnership with Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan and the Archdiocese Commission on Church Heritage, recently held “Obra Sagrada” at SM City Clark.

Obra Sagrada, which roughly translates to “sacred works,” featured works of art with religious themes from 20 artists hailing from Pampanga, Bulacan, Bukidnon and Metro Manila. Dubbed as the first ecclesiastical art exhibit in the country, Obra Sagrada aims to promote awareness for both the art and artists, giving them the opportunity to showcase their craft not only in the country, but also in Asia-Pacific.

The exhibit also featured work from Wilfredo “Willy” Layug, the creator of the “Our Lady of Palo” statue from the Papal Visit earlier this year.  The art forms come in a variety of vestments and sculptures, altars, retablos, church furniture and fixtures, religious home décor, gold leafing, and metal smithing work.

Apart from the art exhibit, guest speakers also gave talks on Christian iconography and heritage appreciation.

SM Supermalls President Annie Garcia said it is a privilege for the company to host and sponsor such an event that would promote local artists and cultural heritage. “We want the public to see how rich our country’s religious art heritage is, and how much talent we have in the country in this artistic category. Hopefully, this serves as an inspiration to budding artists out there,” Garcia added.

Such exhibits are in line with the company’s programs that promote Philippine heritage and culture. This partnership with the Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan and the Archdiocese Commission on Church gave SM mall-goers the rare opportunity to have a glimpse of and rediscover the Philippine’s rich religious art heritage. SM is exploring its partnership with these organizations further to make Obra Sagrada an annual activity in SM Clark and to bring the exhibit to other SM malls.

SM Holds First Religious Art Exhibit in Pampanga

Angeles, Pampanga. October 2015 – SM, in partnership with Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan and the Archdiocese Commission on Church Heritage, recently held “Obra Sagrada” at SM City Clark.

Obra Sagrada, which roughly translates to “sacred works,” featured works of art with religious themes from 20 artists hailing from Pampanga, Bulacan, Bukidnon and Metro Manila. Dubbed as the first ecclesiastical art exhibit in the country, Obra Sagrada aims to promote awareness for both the art and artists, giving them the opportunity to showcase their craft not only in the country, but also in Asia-Pacific.

The exhibit also featured work from Wilfredo “Willy” Layug, the creator of the “Our Lady of Palo” statue from the Papal Visit earlier this year.  The art forms come in a variety of vestments and sculptures, altars, retablos, church furniture and fixtures, religious home décor, gold leafing, and metal smithing work.

Apart from the art exhibit, guest speakers also gave talks on Christian iconography and heritage appreciation.

SM Supermalls President Annie Garcia said it is a privilege for the company to host and sponsor such an event that would promote local artists and cultural heritage. “We want the public to see how rich our country’s religious art heritage is, and how much talent we have in the country in this artistic category. Hopefully, this serves as an inspiration to budding artists out there,” Garcia added.

Such exhibits are in line with the company’s programs that promote Philippine heritage and culture. This partnership with the Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan and the Archdiocese Commission on Church gave SM mall-goers the rare opportunity to have a glimpse of and rediscover the Philippine’s rich religious art heritage. SM is exploring its partnership with these organizations further to make Obra Sagrada an annual activity in SM Clark and to bring the exhibit to other SM malls.

“MERRY SM CHRISTMAS” takes “gifting” to the next level

Christmas is officially on at all SM malls nationwide with the launch of its “Merry SM Christmas 2015” campaign beginning this October. A premier holiday shopping destination, SM also wishes to continue its tradition of spreading cheer and the spirit of giving beyond the walls of the mall through this Yuletide campaign.

Beginning Thursday (October 1), all of SM’s 52 malls will be adorned with grand Christmas garlands, lights, and visual Christmas countdowns accompanied by continuous playing of well-loved Christmas carols. All mall decors are expected to be more thrilling as the season progresses with a series of special events lined up, including the Grand Christmas Centerpiece Launch, Toy Fair, Meet and Greet with Santa Claus and other popular characters, and the Grand Christmas Parade.

Aside from the picture-perfect decorations, the Merry SM Christmas campaign also shares with shoppers the “gifting” idea that aims to make the tradition of giving and receiving more meaningful.

“This holiday season, we would like to encourage our shoppers to make our gift-giving or ‘gifting’ tradition more memorable by doing it in three ways: gifting to family and loved ones; to the community; and to self,” said Jonjon San Agustin, SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice-President for Marketing.

“Christmas is the perfect time to reconnect with our families and loved ones who deserve nothing but the best from us and also reward ourselves with the things that we’ve been wanting to have,” San Agustin explained. “But what completes the Filipino Christmas gifting idea is the choice of sharing the joy of Christmas to our less fortunate brothers and sisters. We at SM offer this opportunity for our shoppers to give back and make a child happy through the SM Cares Bears of Joy charity program.”

“With the gifting idea in mind, we can do all our planning and early shopping of Christmas gifts more purposive and truly worthwhile. Now, we have a three-question gift guide always at hand: Is this gift for my loved ones, for myself, or for charity?” San Agustin quipped.

Merry SM Christmas will be celebrated by all SM malls nationwide from October 1, 2015 to January 10, 2016.

For more updates about this year’s “Merry SM Christmas” campaign, visit SM’s official Christmas microsite and follow its official social media accounts at Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; and get an insider access to all the fun happenings at SM Supermalls nationwide through Viber. Shoppers can actively share their holiday merriments inside the SM Supermalls by posting their photos on social media and adding the hashtag #MerrySMChristmas2015.

SM celebrates longest Grandparents' Day

 
As a sign of solidarity with the Filipino family's inherent respect for elders, SM Supermalls gives its shoppers the longest Grandparents' Day celebration, where grandmas and grandpas take the spotlight in all of SM's 52 malls nationwide for two whole weeks.

From August 31 up to the actual Grandparents' Day on September 13, SM malls will have their "Grand Gifts and Treats" activities where special treats and discounts are offered by various mall tenants during the whole two-week celebration.

A "Grand Memory: I Love You Lolo & Lola" photo wall is also installed as an attraction for all families. It is a special spot where families can capture their precious bonding moments with their elders while inside their favorite SM malls. Also not to be missed is the "Grand Market" activity which will happen in select malls from September 7 to 13. It is a bazaar showcasing items produced by grandparents.

Come September 12, at 7am, a "Grand Walk" warms up the grandparents for the days with special exercises and a massage therapy session conducted by accredited Red Cross volunteers. Registration for the activity is open to 60 years old and above.

Finally, on Grandparents' Day (September 13), all SM Supermalls will go full force to delight all grandfathers and grandmothers with dining offerings, entertainment, and event gadgets and technology products.

Setting the mood right are the malls' 9am Thanksgiving Mass for Grandparents, where the priest will administer a special blessing for grandparents and grandchildren, who will offer flowers to their lolos and lolas.

SM Cyberzone will have an all-day play gaming event at SM Dasmariñas, SM San Mateo and SM Masinag.

A "Grand Music" event will serenade the senior SM shoppers with oldies but goodies tracks that will not only make them reminisce about the good old times, but also introduce the timeless music to their grandkids.

To capture all the special bonding moments of the families celebrating in their favorite SM malls, a special Grandparents' Day photo booth will also be present per mall on the actual Grandparents' Day on September 13.

In SM Supermalls’ social media assets, several Grandparents' Day online promos will be ran from August 31 until September 13.

Shoppers can visit SM Supermalls' official website at www.smsupermalls.com; follow its official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; and get an insider access to all the fun happenings at SM Supermalls nationwide through Viber Public Chat. Customers can tweet their thoughts, upload and share photos while celebrating Grandparents' Day inside the SM Supermalls, then use the season’s official hashtag #GrandparentsDayAtSM.

SM Gives Shoppers Wiser "Waze" to Locate Malls Faster

SM Supermalls, the country's biggest mall network, announced a strategic partnership with Waze (Waze.com), the world's largest community-based traffic and navigation app. This is the first time a Philippine mall chain tied up with a global pioneer in social navigation.

To further extend its service to its shoppers, SM joined forces with Waze to provide the 1.8 million active Filipino Waze users (known as Wazers) with real-time relevant information including turn-by-turn directions to nearby SM Supermalls that appear along the driver's route.

The Waze Philippines map will display SM Supermalls' branded pins that will give Wazers special updates including ongoing mall event and promotions, and 3-Day Sale alerts.

With Waze's GPS navigation technology, SM shoppers are now enabled to swiftly identify the fastest and most efficient map routes. Now, Wazers who are stuck in heavy traffic or road accidents may save driving time and opt to spend it wisely by going to the nearest SM mall and be more productive doing necessities and even have a great time dining in or watching movies.

For more updates about SM and Waze's partnership, visit SM's official website at www.SMsupermalls.com and follow its official social media accounts at Facebook.com/SMsupermalls, Twitter.com/SMsupermalls and Instagram.com/SMsupermalls; and get an insider access to all the fun happenings at SM Supermalls nationwide through Viber at www.viber.com/SMsupermalls. Tweet your thoughts, upload and share your photos inside the SM Supermalls then use its official hashtag #EverythingsHere.

Simultaneous Earth Hour ceremonies in all SM Supermalls in the Philippines and China

For eight years now, Earth Hour have been creating tremendous impact on the global awareness of climate change. More people around the world are beginning to understand the significance of going beyond one hour to really make a difference. The Philippines, once proclaimed as the "Earth Hour Hero Country" for having the most number of participating communities, will once again try to take the lead – thanks to private companies like SM Supermalls.

All 52 SM malls around the country and six in China will simultaneously turn off their lights to show SM's continued support to the annual Earth Hour climate change awareness campaign of World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF). With all SM malls hosting Earth Hour ceremonies for its respective communities, it will not be surprising if the country becomes a "hero" again for this environmental campaign.

All SM malls will provide the crowd with inspiring videos leading to the switch-off countdown. After the lights have been switched off, candles will be distributed to the crowd while an exciting lineup of entertainers will be presented for free.

SM Mall of Asia will be the host mall for the ceremony, with candidates from Ms. Earth as guests, among others, and AVP for Operations Mr. Perkin So to lead the switching off of the lights.

Asia Digital Marketing Expo 2015

Asia Digital Marketing Expo 2015 (#AdMe) will be at SMX Aura, Taguig on July 26, 2015 with a theme: Empower, Connect, Inspire & Learn. Speakers are from international & local scenes who are leaders & influencers. Some of them are as follows;

Dr. Donald Lim is the Chief Digital Officer of ABS CBN. Donald worked at Inquirer, yehey.com & the founding officer of Internet Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines (IMMAP).

Rebecca Bustamante is the President of Chalre Associates. She is considered as the most accomplished woman in Asia because of her struggles to succeed as the Domestic helper who became the CEO of a multinational company. Before becoming a CEO, Rebecca became the Director of Sales from an international cosmetics company in Canada. She's also the President of Asia CEO Forum & Asia CEO Awards with a series of leadership seminars monthly in the Philippines.

Mikel Yaw is the Managing Director of Elabram Systems Group (ESG) with Headquarter in Malaysia & offices in the Philippines, Indonesia & Thailand. ESG main solutions are Network Planning & Optimization, Talent Acquisition & Deployment, Business Process Outsourcing & Knowledge Process Outsourcing. Mikel receives awards from Huawei China for the project contributions. Mikel also won different awards in Malaysia & Indonesia as Entrepreneur of the Year. For two years, Mikel participated as one of the speakers at LTE World Summit in Amsterdam & in USA and as a speaker for the upcoming LTE Middle East in Dubai this May 2015.

Carlos Celdran is the famous tour guide in the Philippines and a brand ambassador of different B2C companies. He is well known for his different advocacy and became more famous when his popular "Damaso" stint at Manila Cathedral was featured in international magazines and newspapers.

Robert Yupangco is the President of Yupangco Group of Companies; Zoomanity Group (Zoobic Safari, Residence Inn Tagaytay, Paradizoo Cavite, Zoocobia Pampanga, Zoocolate Thrills Bohol), YL Finance, Bel Air Transport, Nanten Restaurant, Misono Japanese Restaurant & Yamaha Music.

Tanya Llana is currently the Business Strategist and Director of Sales & Marketing of Victoria Court and the General Manager of Hotel La Corona De Lipa. For Victoria Court, Ms. Llana handles targeting new market segments, innovating revenue direction and ensures social media maximisation. Victoria Court's vision is to be the perfect host and mission is to aim for genuine happiness for everyone, everyday, every stay and in every way. As the General Manager of Hotel La Corona De Lipa, she strives to give her guests crystal clean rooms & amenities, quality food & beverage, and impeccable service. At Hotel La Corona De Lipa, she believes that the customer is King.

Camille Montejo is the CEO of NWSteel Technologies & Tree Top Adventure. Tree Top Adventure provides the only Motorized Team Building Facility in the Philippines & the 1st Motorized Zip Lines in Asia.

Pocholo De Leon Gonzalez is the CEO of Creative Voices Productions & shared his voice to 1000 projects around the globe with more than 10 radio shows in the Philippines. He is the most popular speaker for 3 consecutive years under Laguna Blogging Summit. Pocholo was the finalist at the recently concluded Asia CEO Awards last year.

Janette Toral is the CEO of Digital Club Filipino. Her Philippine Blogging Summit which she started 12 years ago with yearly conference is always successful and held at University of the Philippines Malcolm Theater. She is considered as the E Commerce Guru in the Philippines because of her contribution in different Internet & Electronic Bills that were push in the Philippines. Asia Digital Marketing Expo 2015 (#AdMe) is expecting 1000 visitors & up to 30 companies to share their products and services in the expo. #AdMe is presented/organized by TAG Media & Public Relations. For more info please check www.asiadigitalmarketing.ph & for partnership, please contact the organizer at 09166299381 or at grace@asiadigitalmarketing.ph

Registration Fee: Early bird rate Php 1,500.00 till May 2015. Regular Rate Php 2,000.00 from June 2015- July 26, 2015 (Inclusion: Snacks and Lunch, Conference and Expo.)

Happy Walk For Down Syndrome Awareness

One in every 800 births; 1,875 cases a year; more than 100,000 affected families—those are the numbers revealed last year by the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Inc. (DSAPI) on the incidence of down syndrome in the country.
According to DSAPI, down syndrome is a naturally occurring chromosomal arrangement that has always been part of the human condition, universally present across racial, gender or socioeconomic lines. It usually causes varying degrees of intellectual and physical disability and associated medical issues.
Over a decade ago, February was dubbed as Down Syndrome Consciousness Month to make more Filipinos aware of the condition. In support, DSAPI and SM Cares Program on Disability Affairs came up with Happy Walk, a day-long program that not only raises much-needed awareness for down syndrome patients, but showcases their talents and triumphs.
In the event, DSAPI president Elmer Lapena and SM Cares Program on Disability Affairs head Engr. Bien Mateo will look back at what they had accomplished in 2014 and give the latest information on the state of down syndrome in the Philippines.
Happy Walk will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015 at the Skydome of SM City North Edsa.




Objective
Raise public awareness of down syndrome by organizing a special event for patients and their families

Resource Persons

1. Mr. Elmer Lapena, President of DSAPI
2. Engr. Bien Mateo, Head, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs

Other Sources
http://dsapi.org/
http://smcares.com.ph/disability
http://www.ncda.gov.ph/disability-laws/proclamations/proclamation-no-157/

Angel's Walk for Autism to Break Guinness Book Record

About 12,000 members of the autism community attempted to set a Guinness Book of World Record on the largest crowd wearing wings last Sunday Jan. 25, 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The event called Angels Walk marks the 19th commemoration of the National Autism Consciousness Week that began in January 1996, after the issuance of Presidential Proclamation No. 711. Similar gatherings was also held at Balyuan Towers in Tacloban City and SM City Cebu. Autism Society of the Philippines chapters, families, friends and advocates are expected to participate.



National Autism Consciousness Week aims to inspire awareness acceptance and inclusion of persons with autism (PWAs) in society. It encourages public and private institutions to spearhead creative activities, events and programs around autism awareness, acceptance, and inclusion.

The Angels Walk for Autism began in 2007 and this event has grown to be the single largest autism advocacy event in the country. It is held every year to ckick off the National Autism Consciousness Week

The 16th Ultimate Wedding and Debut Fair on January 2015

"My Big Day". Phrase that I think what every woman has in mind when they think of either Debut or Wedding, no doubt that it is a big deal not only by the ladies but also with us men most specially when it comes to wedding. As much as possible we would always like to be the best big day of our life which also gives justice on how long sometimes the preparation for this event takes from a few months to even years for some.

Next year which is just a few weeks from now 16th Ultimate Wedding and Debut Fair will be in SM Megamall and this is on Jan. 3 - 4. So if you have plans for 2015 for your big day this is one place that you can go to for scouting on the best in the industry and you can choose among what will be best for you, your special someone and what will best suit your budget. The names below will give you an idea of who will be participating on the exhibit:

Anna Cornelio	Mixology Events	Misibis Bay	Keishley  Grace
Avida	GMA	Studio 1	Cilla Events
Cake Botique	Seka  Mojal	Victor Reyes Photography	27a Flower Shop
Mayfel Events	Yabes Films	Anna Vannessa Lo	Ask Jenne today
Kliniqa	Nowelly Salonj	Extreme Details	Island cove
Mines Of gold	In deman Wedding	Treasured Memories
Mary ann martinez	Excel Frames	Gems By Me
Boudouir	Nice Print	CD Worx
A perfect Day	Chito ignacio	Power Image
Balai Isabel	Majica Makeup	Rachelle Mathews
Drean Catcher	Photoman	CGM
Blessed heart	Casanova	I-Flick Photo booth
Diamons with Love	Events Manilka	ILA WOD
Marco & Oyama	Scentiments	Don Robert
Voffice	Kachika Foto	SJT Strings
Prestige Cruise	Amie’s Catering	Switched On Lights
Vie Magazine	Wedding Connections	RV Mitra Photography
Teceruma Salon	Tugawe Cove	Higher Grounds Management Services
Kasal.com	Shutter Steve	Eros
Judy Uson	Manny Mondelo	Ba studio

Special thanks to media partner www.solrazo.com and www.certifiedbloggers.net for the invitation.


Website : weddingfairphilippines.com
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/weddingfairmanila
Instagram : @weddingfairphilippines
Twitter: @islandexhibit
YouTube: YouTube.com/islandexhibitlink

SM Exec Readies Business Students For Climate Risks

Future business leaders need to be ready for the risks associated with a changing climate, according to SM Environment Committee head Liza Silerio, when she addressed the delegates of the 7th Business Management Student's Convention in De La Salle University in Manila.

In her speech, she stressed the importance of sustainable measures by future private sector leaders to safeguard local communities during calamities and cushion the impact of an increase in carbon emissions, population, and demand for basic needs.

As an example of sustainable efforts, she bared the details of SM's sustainability framework, a five level structure that aims to engage different stakeholders, from employees to multinationals. "Each level reaches a wider array of people which holistically provides a foundation of the sustainability management system of the company," she said.

Further, she explained how the SM Group manages to improve its sustainability programs by using a Plan-Do-Check-Act-Report cycle, which plans out and evaluates the events and initiatives of the company within the year.

"For 2013, our intensity power consumption decreased by 11% at 153 kilowatt hours per square meter per year. This is a 16% decrease since the benchmark year of 2010." Silerio said, noting the positive impact of the cycle to the company's energy consumption. Apart from lowering the intensity consumption, SM also started using renewable solar power in China and the Philippines.

The Business Management Student's Convention aimed to spur awareness and commitment to corporate sustainability, environmentalism, and social responsibility by introducing attendees to business approaches, strategies and programs that incorporate sustainability principles.

“Green Switch,” SM’s Solar Rooftop Project

SM City North EDSA is now the biggest solar powered mall in the world with over 5,760 solar panels with a maximum capacity of 1.5 megawatts!

With President Benigno S. Aquino III as guest of honor. See his Speech (source: official gazette)

SM City North EDSA launched the country’s largest solar rooftop power plant on Nov. 24, Monday. The Green Switch SM Solar Rooftop Launch, hosted by Kim Atienza, took place in SM North’s Northlink Building roof deck where government officials such as President Noynoy Aquino, Senator Loren Legarda, House Speaker Sonny Belmonte and Q.C. Mayor Herbert Bautista were in attendance. The president of Solar Philippines, Leandro Leviste, was also there to welcome the honored guests in celebrating the mall’s contribution to a healthier and safer environment.

This initiative to use renewable energy resource, such as solar energy, has been previously adapted by SM City Xiamen in main land China. Solar Philippines hopes to locally promote cleaner air, save electricity, and prevent climate change through partnering with SM Prime Holdings, Inc. by establishing more solar panels that has started with SM North EDSA, and will hopefully progress to other SM Malls.


President of SM Supermalls, Annie Garcia, informed all that they are already aiming to initiate this same project to a number of SM branches. “After SM City North EDSA’s green switch today, we shall begin installing solar panels in SM City Cavite and SM City Dasamariñas in Cavite. SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City shall follow next with 10,534 solar panels to be installed,“ said Garcia.

“With the future generation in mind, we shall continue to seek ways and solutions to climate change. We shall continue to collaborate with the best,” added the president of SM Supermalls.

Currently, the 5,760 solar panels in SM North EDSA have the capability of powering 16,000 lighting fixtures, 59 escalators and 20 elevators while counteracting 1,200 tons of carbon emissions (CO2) per year. These panels are also expected to generate 1.5 megawatts of solar energy, which is equivalent to covering five percent of the mall’s consumption per day, therefore saving an estimated two million pesos a month.

Alejandro Leviste, 21 year old founder of Solar Philippines, also shared his thoughts about the joyous milestone of this project. He expressed how SM’s involvement in solar energy could inspire more businesses to get into the use of renewable energy to save the environment. “The one thing I want to underscore in this message is that SM’s support for solar energy is important far beyond this project in itself. Today marks a watershed moment for solar in the Philippines, because where SM goes, the rest of Philippines will follow. SM is a spark that ignites the future of a massive shift towards solar energy,” said Leviste.

With the country facing a potential energy shortage in 2015, harnessing the sun’s power will grant long-term benefits for the Philippines, both environmentally and economically. It is SM’s hope that their new way of conserving electricity and saving the environment will also inspire other establishments to follow

Deuter now in SM Mall of Asia

Up in the mountains, they hold a compass, a couple of energy bars, a flashlight, and a hydration pack, among many others. On the beach, they carry a change of clothes, a sarong, and some sunscreen. In school, they’re filled with children’s books and notebooks, artworks and pencils, and maybe even a pack of popcorn. We are talking about backpacks, of course.

In its most of basic of forms, a backpack is but a sack carried on one’s back, secured by shoulder straps. But for Deuter, one of the most trusted brands in the world of outdoor sports, the backpack is a passport to great adventures. It is no wonder then that the backpack has become a veritable must-have not only for professional athletes and weekend outdoorsmen, but for urban warriors as well.

Founded in 1898, Deuter has been pioneering premium outdoor equipment for over 115 years. It first made its mark by providing the Bavarian Royal Mail with mailbags and post sacks. Eventually, the company developed backpacks, knapsacks, satchels, and tents, primarily for the German military.

But the call of the great outdoors proved to be too tempting to resist, and soon, Deuter was outfitting pioneering mountaineering expeditions with backpacks and tents, putting their manufacturing skills and expertise to the test. In 1938, German mountain climber Anderl Heckmair brought along a Deuter backpack when he led the first successful ascent of the North Face of the Eiger. Fifteen years later, Deuter was with Austrian mountaineer Hermann

Buhl and his crew when they conquered Nanga Parbat in Pakistan, the ninth highest mountain in the world.That Deuter’s history is closely intertwined with that of modern mountaineering is no surprise as the company has consistently worked with the sporting world’s best in order to develop revolutionary systems and innovative products.

Today, Deuter provides the best fitting backpack for virtually all types of outdoor adventure, from hiking, biking, and trekking to mountain climbing and skiing. It also makes a wide selection of highly functional, top quality outdoor products from bags and sleeping bags to bike accessories and hydration systems. For families who like going on weekend hikes and camping under the stars, Deuter has developed kiddie-sized sleeping bags and child carriers with ventilated back systems. For city dwellers who have to traverse the urban jungle every day, Deuter offers a line of satchels, laptop bags, and duffel bags.

But at the heart of Deuter is its unwavering passion for the great outdoors. This is evident in each and every one of its products, which have been engineered to perform well outdoors and withstand the changing moods of nature, giving its wearer more than ample support.

At the Deuter concept store located at the SM Mall of Asia, its amazingly functional designs will be on full display. Leading the pack is Deuter's world-renowned AirComfort System. By creating a space between the pack and the wearer's back, this revolutionary mesh back system reduces perspiration by 25 percent. With its three-way ventilation, Deuter’s AirComfort System decreases the wearer’s average heart rate and load on the cardiovascular system, increasing his level of endurance. Carrying fully-loaded packs all day long wouldn’t seem such a burden with Deuter’s AirComfort System. With groundbreaking innovations such as this, Deuter makes exploring the world a fun and fulfilling pursuit!

DEUTER CONCEPT STORE
2nd level of SM Mall of Asia at the North Entertainment Mall.

SM Bowling Celebrates 25th Gives Biggest Prizes Ever with Php 2M + Car

SM Lifestyle Entertainment Inc., the company that carries you major brands such as SM Cinema, IMAX, Mall of Asia Arena, e-PLUS, and SM Skating Rink, brings you the SM Bowling and Leisure Center’s biggest and most competitive bowling tournament: In celebration of the SM Bowling’s year anniversary, SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc. will be launching the first ever SM Bowling 25th Millionaire’s Cup.

This year, SM will be giving away over Php 5 Million in prizes, including P2 million and a car for the grand prize winner – The biggest prize in Philippine Bowling History! To encourage the players of the preliminary rounds, the winner of the center finals will receive an initial P 100,000. 1st P 25,000. During the championship, the top victor of the grandslam finals will receive a whopping P 2,000,000 and a car. Subsequent winners will not go empty handed: 1stP 500,000, 2nd place finisher will still receive P 25,000 each. 16th SM Bowling and Leisure Center is a one-stop entertainment hub that offers not only the best in bowling, but in billiards, games, and even KTV. Currently, the SM Bowling and Leisure Center has also launched the “Match Your Bowling Games with Free Food” promo, wherein bowlers will be given complimentary snacks in line with availing at least two games at the bowling and leisure center. Currently, SM Bowling has branches in SM Fairview, SM North EDSA, SM Valenzuela, SM Mega Mall, SM South Mall, SM Mall of Asia, SM Cebu and SM Lanang Davao.

SM Lifestyle Entertainment Incorporated or SMLEI is the lifestyle and entertainment solutions company of SM Prime Holdings Inc. that offers the best in movies, events, leisure and technology. Starting with SM Cinema, the largest cinema exhibitor in the country, as its sole marque, the company grew into 12 major brands. Currently tucked under its belt are brands such as SM Cinema, Director’s Club Cinema, IMAX Theatre, WM Cinemas, SM Skating Rink, SM Bowling and Leisure Center, Exploreum, Snack Time, e-PLUS Tap to Pay, e-PLUS Digital, and SM Tickets. SMLEI aims to promote bonding activities among Filipino families and friends, through entertainment and leisure facilities, while advocating the ease of use and personalized service created to complement the Filipino lifestyle.

To find out further details on the biggest bowling competition, the SM Bowling Millionaires Cup, you may visit www.smbowling.com or contact the SM Bowling and Leisure Center at 862-7609 / 0917-8602850.  runner up will receive P 50,000 while 2nd and 3rd runner up will take home  runner up will take home P 250,000, 3rd runner up will earn P 150,000, and the 5th

Revs your Heart” with Yamaha International Motorshow

(From left) Mr. Ryan Jude Camus,  YMPH Marketing Section Manager; Mr. Romy Tan, YMPH Sales General Manager; Mr. Toru Osugi, YMPH President; Mr. Kaoru Ogura, YMPH Sales & Marketing Director and Mr. Yukio Fukada, YMPH Logistics, After Sales and Corporate Support Director.

Last June 4-8, 2014, Yamaha held their Yamaha International Motorshow at SM MOA, Atrium Hall. This event shows off the innovative and unique features of its local and global models, as well as its various new products for 2014. Yamaha aims to bring in to every customer the new Yamaha exciting world, which will be showcased in this 5-day event. 

Also, Yamaha launched to the public its new brand slogan, “Revs your Heart”, to highlight the ‘company’s passion for innovation by creating an exceptional value and experiences that enrich the lives of the customers.’ With Yamaha’s “Refined Dynamism”, the company aims to captivate and help create vibrant lifestyles through the new product line up and technology of Yamaha.

The new brand slogan came from the word “rev”, which simply means revving an engine, being associated to the human heart that pumps the blood through the body’s veins to make all the systems work properly. Revs Your Heart is a strong statement that is able to move people to greater heights and raise the quality of life. This is a statement that represents a deep sensation that lasts, a passion that endures.

Because of the company’s philosophy of providing its clients their satisfaction, Yamaha aspires to ignite a high-quality feel that projects the HEART of Yamaha through delivering an excitement ground that continuous to REV their exhilarating sense.

Together, let us all experience a colorful, vibrant motorcycle lifestyle with Yamaha!

“Experience a New World of Dynamism”

Visit www.yamaha-motor.com.ph for more details.