FEATURES

“Let us not count our lives by the days we live, but by the good deeds we do for humanity.” – Henry Sy, Sr.

In its commitment to uplift lives and drive social good nationwide, the SM Group, through SM Foundation, turned over the newly rehabilitated San Jose District Health Center in Tacloban City. This marks SM Foundation’s 211th Wellness Center.

“Each health center we revitalize represents more than a facility—it’s a source of hope, healing, and dignity for the communities we serve,” Connie Angeles, SM Foundation’s Executive Director for Health and Medical Programs said,

The San Jose District Health Center serves around 43,575 residents of Tacloban City, offering a wide range of health services including family planning, prenatal and postnatal care, birthing, child care, TB DOTS, minor consultations, maintenance medication provision, and adolescent wellness consultations.

A renewed facility for better ealthcare

Established in 2010, the district health center sustained severe damage in 2013 during Typhoon Yolanda, which destroyed its structure, medical equipment, medicines, and records. Recognizing its vital role in the community, SM Foundation stepped in to rehabilitate the facility to meet modern healthcare standards.

The renovated center is now equipped with key upgrades such as a dedicated breastfeeding area, an adolescent consultation space, a well-stocked pharmacy, delivery and recovery rooms, a nurse’s station with on-duty quarters, PWD-friendly toilets, and sustainable features like a rainwater catchment system and air-cleaning paints that enhance indoor air quality while promoting environmental sustainability.

Further supporting its operations, SM Foundation also provided laptops to digitize patient records, enabling online consultations for residents in remote areas, improving data management, and streamlining administrative processes. These efforts also facilitate the enrollment of patients in PhilHealth Konsulta benefits.

A legacy of health and hope

The rehabilitation of the San Jose District Health Center coincided with the periodic maintenance of the Tacloban City Hospital and the 11th anniversary of Savemore’s presence in the city. This initiative is part of SM Group’s long-standing commitment in supporting the government’s efforts in strengthening the country’s healthcare infrastructure.

Following the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013, the SM Foundation spearheaded the rebuilding of the Tacloban City Hospital, aligning with government efforts to restore critical medical facilities. The renovation of the San Jose District Health Center continues this legacy, providing enhanced access to quality healthcare and ensuring a brighter future for Tacloban’s residents.

With its modernized facilities and upgraded systems, the San Jose District Health Center stands as a symbol of resilience and SM Foundation’s dedication to building healthier, more empowered communities.

SM Foundation celebrated the achievements of 218 college scholar graduates from Batch 2024 during a recognition ceremony held at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Among the graduates, 63 earned academic honors, including three summa cum laude, 29 magna cum laude, 27 cum laude, and four receiving academic distinction.

These scholars embarked on their college journey in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, overcoming the challenges of remote learning to successfully complete their degrees.

“You faced one of the most challenging periods in recent history, yet you persevered with resilience and determination,” said SM Foundation Executive Director Debbie Sy in her address. “Your achievements are not just individual milestones but symbols of hope and strength for your families and communities.”

Sy highlighted education as a vital tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and urged graduates to give back by uplifting their communities. She also extended gratitude to the foundation’s social good partners, whose support contributed significantly to the scholars’ success.

Established in 1993 by SM Group founder Tatang Henry Sy, Sr., the SM College Scholarship Program has supported over 4,000 scholars nationwide. The program offers comprehensive assistance, including full tuition coverage, allowances, training, social gatherings, part-time job placements, internship opportunities, and potential employment within the SM Group.

Volunteer and SM Retail IT personnel Mark Ramos, who started as self-IT started in high school, pursues his mission to help bring computer and digital literacy closer to Filipino students.

Many schools in the country continue to struggle with computer access for their students, with multiple learners often sharing a single unit. This challenge is even more critical in rural areas, where limited devices and unreliable internet connectivity widen the technological gap.

This disparity threatens to leave countless Filipino students at a disadvantage as the world rapidly shifts towards digital integration in both education and professional fields.

The SM Group and Mastercard aim to bridge these gaps through the rollout of DigiHub in Philippine public elementary schools, including Lemery Pilot Elementary School in Batangas, Tuba Central School in Benguet, Jugan Elementary School in Cebu, and Macasandig Elementary School in Cagayan de Oro.

On the ground, volunteers and IT professionals like Mark Ramos from SM Retail have been instrumental in bringing this social initiative to life.

When personal experience becomes a professional purpose

Setting up the DigiHubs. SM employee-volunteer Mark unboxes one of the desktops from the partnership of Mastercard and the SM Group. Mark is joined by teachers and students from the Lemery Pilot Elementary School and SM Foundation School building program head Juris Soliman and program manager Greg Baclea-an.

Mark’s passion for technology was ignited in his high school years when his family acquired their first computer. “Repairing a computer back then was very costly, especially for a humble household like ours,” he recalled.

Instead of letting technical issues stop him from using his computer, he took matters into his own hands. “Back then, I would just research how to fix the computer, and I eventually discovered that’s what information technology is all about—continuous learning,” he reflected.

After a year of joining the SM Group, his team leaders presented him with the volunteering opportunity for the groundwork of the DigiHubs. He initially took on the task of conducting site visits and feasibility assessments for establishing the hubs in schools.

“During the site visit, teachers shared that the ratio of students to computers was not proportionate. Several students would use one computer, which made it challenging for teachers and students alike,” he shared, explaining why the project became close to his heart.

His involvement has taken him across the Philippines—from site visits in West Visayas and Benguet to computer installations in Batangas, Benguet, and Cagayan de Oro.

A personal mission

Together with his colleagues, Mark carefully evaluated the best options for students to ensure that the DigiHubs will foster students’ interest in tech.

After witnessing firsthand the challenges faced by schools in providing adequate computer access, the project became his personal mission. He carefully evaluated the best options for students, considering factors like internet connectivity and selecting applications that maximize learning opportunities.

“During our first test run, I saw how the students eagerly interacted with the computers. You could literally see their eyes glimmer with excitement. They immediately explored the computer, tried different software like Microsoft Word, and began typing away,” he shared.

His passion for the program grew stronger as he worked closely with students and teachers. “Causes like these are very important, especially in today’s competitive world,” he said. “Even if students don’t have computers at home, teachers noted that having enough units at school would greatly build students’ digital learning foundation.”

“Throughout the project, I was driven by the idea that if students had the same computer access I had, they would have a fair opportunity to explore the world of information technology. Now, they can explore and compete in tech-related fields in the digital age.”

Even after the DigiHubs were officially turned over, Mark remained grateful for the opportunity. He now eagerly awaits the next chance to share his skills for a greater cause.

“I am grateful to SM Foundation, SM Retail, Mastercard, and my leaders in the IT Service Operations Teamfor opening this opportunity to me and my colleagues. This experience allowed us not only to lend a helping hand but also to harness our IT skills in meaningful ways—to bridge the gap in computer and digital literacy for young students who might otherwise face barriers to accessing these essential tools. By giving them the skills and confidence to navigate a digital world, we hope to spark possibilities for their futures.”

Sleigh the holiday season!

Pre-Christmas errands to check off your list with the help of SM Supermalls

Hoping to make this Christmas the best one yet? SM Supermalls’ pre-holiday checklist will help ensure that you get just that! Here’s your ultimate Christmas checklist for a magical holiday experience.

1. Go Christmas Gift Shopping  

‘Tis the season of giving! Start your holiday shopping at the nearest SM mall! We’ve got an exclusive Christmas gift guide that’s brimming with ideas for every personality on your list. Whether it’s a gift for mom and dad, luxury treats, or quirky finds, you’ll surely be spoiled for choice. Make sure to check it out to find that perfect gift for everyone here!

1. Countdown to Christmas Day with an Advent Calendar 

Extend the joy of the holiday season with an extravagant and unique advent calendar! Count down each day to Christmas with exciting surprises. Here are some of our festive picks:

1. Lancôme Advent Calendar – This limited edition piece awaits you. Packed with luxurious skincare and beauty treats, you’ll surely want to get your hands on this! Check it out here. 

1. Auro Chocolate Advent Calendar – There’s no better way to celebrate each day towards Christmas with premium chocolates! Unlock an assortment of Auro Chocolate with your very own Filipino Holiday Advent Calendar crafted using sustainably sourced cacao beans.

1. Nespresso x Jean Imbert Advent Calendar – A luxe countdown to Christmas, the Nespresso x Jean Imbert Advent Calendar contains daily coffee pods from Nespresso’s Original line, including exclusive flavors created with Chef Jean Imbert. This festive calendar is adorned with elegant foil relief and inspired by the art of travel. Behind its final door, you’ll find a limited-edition porcelain mug—a stylish keepsake to enjoy your favorite brews well beyond the holiday season.

1. ALDO Welcometooz Advent Calendar – Uncover chic accessories and goodies all season long! The ALDO x Wicked “Welcometooz” Advent Calendar is a holiday treat filled with 12 chic accessories inspired by the magical world of Oz. Each day reveals a unique, wickedly stylish piece—from sparkling earrings to glam hairpins and bold bracelets—bringing a dash of enchantment and style to every outfit. 

1. Decorate Your Christmas Tree  

Head over to the SM Store for a wide range of Christmas trees and decorations. From classic reds and greens to trendy metallics and pastels, you’ll find everything you need to bring your tree to life. And for those looking to make their tree truly stand out, the SM Store even offers tree decorating services to give your home that extra festive sparkle!

1. Get Creative with Christmas Cards for Your Loved Ones!

Give your holiday greetings a dash of personality! Whether you’re into super cutesy designs or prefer a simple, elegant vibe, the National Book Store has the perfect Christmas cards to match. Add a heartfelt note, sprinkle on some stickers, and make each card a keepsake they’ll treasure. 

1. Cozy Up at the Cinema 

Relax and enjoy a holiday movie with your loved ones at the SM Cinema. With the latest blockbusters and cozy seating, it’s the perfect way to unwind and share a few laughs or tears together.

1. Go Ice Skating 

For a truly unique experience, go ice skating and enjoy a winter wonderland right here at SM! Whether you’re a pro or trying ice skating for the first time, it’s a fun way to embrace the season’s festive spirit with friends and family.

• Celebrate Noche Buena Dinner with your Family

Ring in Christmas Day with a hearty feast at the SM malls. Select from a variety of cuisines, whether classic Filipino, hearty Italian, or comforting Chinese. 

• Experience Christmas Joy

Witness Christmas Spectacles through SM’s Christmas Parades, Santa Meet and Greets, musical performances, and spectacular firework shows happening from November to December! Or visit your favorite SM mall and check out the Merriest Christmas Bazaar to find the perfect gifts to give your loved ones while also supporting local businesses. 

Music lovers can also enjoy the Joyful Voices Chorale, where the best choir groups from all over the country serenade mall goers with stunning vocal performances, just in time for the holidays. And in celebration of World Choir Day on December 8, SM will be holding the first grand simultaneous gathering and performance of choir groups in solidarity with the global chorale community.

For kids and kids at heart, see Santa and his squad come to life through the magic of the Christmas Village AR—he might even give you special shopping vouchers as a surprise gift! Finally, to celebrate the season of giving, show support for the Bears of Joy initiative. For every bear purchased, another will be donated to a child in need, spreading warmth and comfort to those craving the magic of Christmas. 

Enjoy the holiday season and countdown to Christmas day with this checklist from SM Supermalls.

To know more about the holiday activities you can do at SM, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media. 

Digitalizing opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.

SM Supermalls is elevating its commitment to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the launch of the MSME website, designed to streamline leasing applications and create new growth opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Launched this November, this innovative platform enables MSMEs to secure spaces across 87 SM malls nationwide—at special, affordable rates crafted to support new and growing businesses.

A budding entrepreneur showcases their coffee products at SM City Sta. Mesa.

Launch your business with confidence by presenting your merchandise in a competitive marketplace. Learn more here: https://msme.smsupermalls.com/

With a focus on efficiency, the MSME website allows business owners to easily apply online, track the status of their applications, and receive timely updates. For SM Supermalls, automating data processing improves accuracy and speeds up the approval process, allowing them to better serve MSMEs while maintaining top-tier customer service.

Radiant artworks by local artists are on sale at the Artisan Village in SM City San Lazaro.

A variety of local products, including humidifier oil, are showcased at the Central Luzon Tourism and Trade Fair held at SM City Pampanga.

A local entrepreneur serves up refreshing treats at SM City Rosario in Cavite.

Handcrafted jewelry by local artisans shines at SM City North EDSA.

For MSMEs, the website provides a convenient, accessible entry point to showcase products and connect with customers in the nation’s top retail destinations. This initiative supports Filipino entrepreneurs, offering them affordable spaces to jumpstart or expand their businesses within a competitive, dynamic marketplace where their products can reach thousands daily.

Launch your business into success with SM Supermalls

The MSME Website is your gateway to affordable spaces and expanded reach across 87 locations, putting your business in the heart of SM Supermalls’ thriving retail ecosystem. Start your journey today and join the many Filipino entrepreneurs who have chosen SM Supermalls as their platform for success.

The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) website is your gateway to affordable spaces and unparalleled exposure in a thriving retail environment. Apply here: https://www.smsupermalls.com/sm-for-msmes/

ABOUT SM SUPERMALLS

Owned by SM Prime Holdings, SM Supermalls is the leading mall developer and operator in the Philippines, with a strong dedication to supporting Filipino MSMEs. Join our growing community of businesses across 80+ malls nationwide and benefit from market access, enhanced visibility, and premier retail exposure. Stay tuned for more updates on the SM for MSMEs website on Facebook @smsupermalls or visit www.smsupermalls.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your business with SM Supermalls today! #SMforMSMEs

The SM Prime Group has been recognized as the National Awardee for its SM Life program, winning the People Program of the Yeasr 2024 (Employee Experience and Engagement category) at the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) National Conference in Iloilo on October 17, 2024.

(L-R): People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) Executive Director Rene Gener, Pateros Technological College President Dr. Analiza Arcega, SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Senior Assistant Vice President of Human Resources (HR) Rhodora De Leon, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Vice President of HR Charmaine Charlotte Adonis, SM Supermalls Senior Vice President of HR Cheryll Agsaoay, SM Engineering and Design Development (SMEDD) Vice President of HR Jose Wilson Caisip, 2023 PMAP President Ma. Elizabeth Nasol, 2024 PMAP President Michael Godinez, and 2024 PMAP Vice President Lydia Lily Quintans

This recognition highlights SM Prime’s efforts to enhance employee development and create an inclusive workplace that promotes growth and empowerment. The award followed a rigorous three-month review, which looked into how the program was developed over the last five years, how it adapted before and after the pandemic, and how it meets the company’s business and organizational needs. As part of the evaluation, assessors conducted onsite visits and interviews with randomly chosen employees from various levels and business units across SM Prime.

There were over 90 entries submitted for the three award categories: People Program of the Year, People Manager of the Year, and Employer of the Year. SM Life emerged as one of 10 finalists and was recognized for its innovative people management approach. This is SM’s first time to join the PMAP Awards and the first-ever win for SM.

SM Prime Group wins the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) People Program of the Year Award (Employee Experience and Engagement) for its longstanding commitment to employee well-being and development.

About SM Life

SM Prime Group employees are all smiles as they welcome their new virtual buddy, Primo, introduced during the launch of SMILE (SM Integrated Life Enablement), the company’s new human capital management system, on October 10, 2024.

SM Life is the flagship program for integrated talent management within SM Prime Group. Launched in 2018 under the leadership of Hans Sy, Chairman of the SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) Executive Committee, SM Life empowers employees to learn, grow, and give back. It focuses on improving the overall employee experience, which SM Prime sees as essential to the company’s success. Since its launch, the program has seen significant sustainable improvements in employee retention, especially among high-potential talent, and a consistent downward trend in turnover rates over the past five years.

A hallmark of the SM Life program is its focus on overall employee experience. From learning and development to employee recognitions, making employees feel valued through simple gestures like sharing kudos cards through the SM Life app. To date, over 100,000 online kudos cards have been given out, planting the seeds of a culture of appreciation across the company.

Coaching and mentoring are also key leadership responsibilities at SM Prime, embedded in the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) of its leaders. This ensures employees receive ongoing guidance and support, driving both personal and professional growth.

An SM leader guides a colleague, reflecting SM Prime’s commitment to professional growth and talent development.

SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim expressed his gratitude for the award, saying, “The SM Life program reflects our commitment to empowering our employees to get more out of life through their work and the advocacies we uphold at SM Prime. Guided by the Sy family, our company champions the importance of developing our employees’ potential and strives to collectively embody the work-life principles of our founder, Tatang, Henry Sy, Sr.”

An SM employee is engaged with the Digi-U platform, a versatile tool that provides access to personalized learning pathways that can be used anytime and anywhere.

SM Supermalls Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Program Lead for SM Life Cheryll Agsaoay added, “Anchoring on the powerful interplay of purpose, performance, and passion, these are the cornerstones of SM Life and the foundation of our people programs. We are committed to continuously evolving the employee experience at SM Prime Group. We celebrate our wins and work harder on what we need to be better at.”

This recognition affirms SM Prime’s commitment to its employees, reinforcing the company’s thrust to providing a positive, dynamic workplace that supports both holistic growth and engagement.

SM Cares is taking a significant step towards digital inclusivity by launching Eye-Able® on the SM Supermalls website. Starting October 21, users will experience a more accessible, user-friendly interface designed to enhance browsing for individuals with visual impairments or those requiring digital assistance. This initiative underscores SM’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital world.

SM Supermalls is proud to continue its efforts to make every platform, whether physical or digital, inclusive and accessible. The launch of Eye-Able® is part of the mall’s ongoing initiative to support communities through SM Cares.

Eye-Able® introduces features such as text resizing, contrast adjustments, and screen readers, all designed to help users with special needs navigate the site with ease. By integrating Eye-Able®, SM Supermalls aligns with global standards, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), enhancing digital access and promoting inclusivity across its digital platform.

Eye-Able® is built upon the idea that digital accessibility is a fundamental right, ensuring that “individuals with disabilities can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the internet.” Through this innovative digital solution, Eye-Able® envisions “An Internet for All.”

By integrating Eye-Able® into its digital offerings, SM Supermalls is not only improving how individuals interact with its website but is also joining a broader movement towards making the digital world accessible to everyone. This reflects SM’s commitment to inclusivity across all its platforms, aiming to ensure that every customer, regardless of ability, can enjoy a seamless and engaging online experience.

Eye-Able® is not only a tool for persons with disabilities (PWDs) but also benefits senior citizens and anyone who may find navigating the internet challenging. For example, “Super Grannies” (elderly users) can now easily adjust font sizes for better readability. Younger users and people with different accessibility needs will also find Eye-Able® helpful in creating a smoother and more enjoyable browsing experience.

“When we say SM Supermalls is a mall for all, we mean it in every sense—both physical and digital. We are proud to be at the forefront of this movement, breaking down barriers and making the online world accessible to everyone” said Engr. Bien Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs and Senior Citizens. “We’re proud advocates of digital accessibility as a fundamental right, ensuring that everyone can navigate and enjoy our online spaces with ease.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, championing programs that focus on communities and the environment. These include initiatives for Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, the Environment, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, and the SM Bike-Friendly initiative.

Experience the newly accessible SM Supermalls website beginning October 21. Visit www.smsupermalls.com to explore our commitment to creating an inclusive digital experience for everyone.

The holiday season has officially begun at SM Supermalls, with a series of spectacular Christmas launches at SM malls around the country! Each mall celebrated the beginning of Christmas with unique themes, activities, and decorations, bringing joy and excitement to families and visitors alike.

SM Supermalls welcomed the Christmas season at SM City North EDSA on October 16, which transformed into an enchanting land called Elfdale. The Christmas tree lighting ceremony was made special by the dynamic performances of Jose Mari Chan and P-Pop groups, VXON and G22. 

On October 17, SM Mall of Asia (MOA) kicked off the festivities with MOA Paskong Pinoy! The spirit of the holidays came alive thanks to live performances from the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra. Stell of SB19 also serenaded the crowd with his rendition of classic Filipino Christmas favorites. Following this was MOA’s dazzling tree lighting ceremony, which illuminated the mall and created a magical atmosphere for the holiday season. The grand, playful installations of Filipino icons, including taho carts and kalesas, flanked a towering Christmas tree in the mall’s Central Atrium.

Meanwhile, SM Megamall transformed into a classic London Christmas scene, featuring extravagant red ribbons and tuxedo-donned teddy bears, inviting visitors to step into a winter wonderland for Mega Holidays 2024! The grand 50-foot Christmas tree took center stage during the tree lighting ceremony, captivating guests with its radiant lights. The festivities continued with a one-of-a-kind hologram concert featuring singer-songwriter and rising star Maki.

Christmas in the Visayas region came alive at SM Seaside City Cebu with the launch of Santa’s Cirque World. Families enjoyed a whimsical theatrical performance featuring Mr. and Mrs. Claus, followed by the enchanting lighting of a stunning 40-foot Christmas tree. The array of attractions, including the Merry-Go-Magic, Mrs. Claus’ Spectacle Tent, The North Pole Flyer, and the Festive Ferris Wheel Delight, created a fun-filled day for everyone in attendance.

At SM City Bacolod, the holiday spirit flourished with the launch of Santa’s Elf Village. A lively Christmas medley was performed by the CPAC Symphonic Orchestra and the De La Salle Chorale, filling the air with joyful music. The highlight of the evening was the heartwarming countdown to the tree lighting, where Santa and his delightful elves made a grand, spectacular entrance, spreading cheer and holiday magic to everyone present.

The enchantment continued on October 18 at SM Lanang in Davao, where Janine Myrtel Arisola and Timothy Paul Cabrera, independent performing artists, delivered a mesmerizing ballet performance, Pas de Deux. The enchanting Christmas Forest, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, provided the perfect backdrop for this captivating scene.

SM Aura, on the other hand, celebrated Filipino craftsmanship through the Sinag at Saya showcase. A beautifully decorated holiday display highlighted local artistry with intricate ornaments and parols made from native materials. The tree-lighting ceremony featured a unique fashion presentation by renowned designer Carl Jan Cruz, who reimagined traditional Filipino aesthetics through modern design—a delight for attendees with its beautiful blend of culture and style.

Finally, on October 19, The Podium unveiled its Holidays are in Bloom celebration, with the mall decked out in gold and ivory blooms, with tinges of lilac and soft rose. The tree-lighting ceremony dazzled guests, along with musical performances from enchanting elves, toy soldiers, and ballerinas. And of course, Santa’s special appearance added to the festive excitement.

With laughter, music, and a sprinkle of magic, SM Supermalls is setting the stage for a joyous holiday season. These dynamic celebrations are just the beginning, as families and friends create AweSM memories, just in time for the most wonderful time of the year! For more information on SM’s Christmas celebrations and events, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls on Facebook.

Prepare yourselves for a spooky season with SM Supermalls’ Super Monsterrific Halloween! Whether you’re in your villain era or final girl era, one thing’s for sure—if you’re brave enough to face the spooks and scares, then you’re ready for everything SM’s got in store this Halloween!

Get your SuperKids in on the Halloween fun with SM’s MONSTERRIFIC HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST! Open to kids below 12 years old, costume contests will be held in participating SM malls from October 26 to 31, 2024, with up to Php5,000 in SM shopping money at stake!

To join, make sure to register via the SM Malls Online app and save the event pass that will be generated for you. Registration starts on October 24, Thursday, but beware—registration ends depending on your chosen SM mall’s contest date!

But that’s not all! Your SuperKids will also be able to TRICK-OR-TREAT the very same day! Just present single or accumulated receipts worth Php1,500 to receive a Halloween strap or stamp that qualifies them for the Halloween events. With this, SuperKids can present it to SM stores marked by emblems to get fun-tastic treats!

You can also pick up some fresh Halloween goodies at Toy Kingdom! Check out their MONSTERRIFIC HALLOWEEN BAZAAR for the creepiest, spookiest, and coolest toys, treats and costumes, ready to transform your SuperKid into a Halloween winner!

But of course, Halloween is not just for kids! Things can get real spooky with the adults, so embrace that horror ~aesthetic~ with SM Supermalls’ partner tenants! Transform your space (and look!) with creepy and delightful pieces from the MINISO x Harry Potter Collection, now available at SM North EDSA and SM Megamall.

Grab the cutest knick knacks from FLYING TIGER, and discover deliciously ghoulish sweet treats for your Halloween parties at CANDY CORNER and KRISPY KREME!

Finally, Halloween is meant to be experienced! Be prepared for slippery slides and gravity-defying jumps at FANTASY WORLD, SM City Fairview’s latest playground, or visit TIMEZONE for immersive gaming. 

For thrill-seekers, SM CINEMA is also having its fifth run of SINE SINDAK, a horror film festival that brings together local and Southeast Asian horror films for the horror junkies to enjoy starting October 30 to November 5.

Do you dare to enter the Monsterrific Halloween experience waiting for you at SM Supermalls? For more information on SM’s Halloween events, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls on Facebook.

• In observance of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, experts from esteemed medical societies and patient organizations gathered to raise awareness on the prevention, screening, diagnosis, and management of lung cancer.

Expert groups that took part in the endeavor, from left to right: Dr. Karlos Aleta, President of the Philippine Association of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons; Dr. Josefina Lapena, President of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians; Dr. Joey Joson, Former President of The Philippine Society of Hospice and Palliative Medicine; Dr. Janeth Samson, president of the Philippine College of Chest Physicians; Dr. Ma. Teresa Benedicto, President of the Philippine Radiation Oncology Society; Dr. Josephine Tolentino, President of the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology; Dr. Herdee Luna, President of The Philippine Society of Oncologists; and Emerito Rojas, founding board member of newly launched patient group Lung Health Alliance of the Philippine

MANILA – In the Philippines, lung cancer remains the second most common type of cancer— and the most prevalent and deadliest type of cancer among Filipino men.¹,³ Around 25% of Filipinos aged 15 years and up smoke tobacco. This places millions of the population at risk for developing lung cancer.² These staggering statistics emphasize the need for continuous and vigilant screening to make sure this, as with all types of cancer, is detected and subsequently treated as early as possible.

Lung and oncology experts from seven medical societies alongside patient advocacy groups gathered at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel recently to further raise awareness around prevention, screening, diagnosis, and management of lung cancer.

The well-attended event aimed to facilitate a multi-disciplinary discussion on the crucial role of each specialty in the lung cancer care continuum, focusing on lung cancer management.

Dr. Janeth Samson, president of the Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP) opened the program by emphasizing the need for a unified approach among all key stakeholders to battle this condition, including committing due diligence to find the right diagnosis, optimal approach, and minimizing the number and invasiveness of procedures. “Hindi po lahat ng cancer pare-pareho ng treatment. We go to the procedure that will give us the best diagnosis.”

In 2022 alone, 23,728 people were diagnosed with lung cancer and many more remain under the radar.⁶ Mr.  Emerito Rojas of the Lung Health Alliance of the Philippines or LungHAP who has been advocated for everyone’s right to breathe cleaner air to preserve and protect lung health, also shed light on the experiences of lung cancer patients and their families, and the importance of a supportive community. “We need to push for early detection and lung screening. We need sustainable funding and we need to develop a strategy. Together with your support, we can make an impact.”

Experts then gathered for an informative and engaging panel to discuss the journey of the lung cancer patient. Dr. Josephine Lapena, President of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians (PAFP), Dr. Karlos Aleta, President of the Philippine Association of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeons (PATACSI), Dr. Josephine Tolentino, President of the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO), and  Dr. Herdee Luna, President of the Philippine Society of Oncologists Inc. (PSO) joined PCCP president Dr. Samson to discuss the how to execute the multidisciplinary team approach, which is highlighted by taking a deeper look into a patient’s lifestyle and situation.

“Importante na alam namin ang sitwasyon hindi lang ng pasyente, kundi pati ng pamilya. We need to know what the family is dealing with. What they do, where they live,” said Dr. Lapena.

Dr. Tolentino, alongside Dr. Ma. Teresa Benedicto of the Philippine Radiation Oncology Society and Dr. Joey Joson of the Philippine Society of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, discussed the importance of end-to-end care for lung cancer, taking note of holistic health, especially when in advanced stages. “We advise patients to continue with a healthy lifestyle and to take care of mental health,” said Dr. Tolentino.

“We address not only physical. We also address psychosocial, spiritual, and existential issues, and the family, too, na hindi na-address ng iba naming colleagues. ‘Yun po ‘yung puwede naming maitulong sa kanila,” elaborated Dr. Joson.

Dr. Cyril Tolosa, Medical Affairs Director of AstraZeneca Philippines, underscored how each accurate intervention can help make the healing journey easier for patients. “AstraZeneca is driven by its bold ambition to eliminate lung cancer as a leading cause of death worldwide, and that includes transforming the landscape of lung cancer care here in the Philippines through early intervention and innovative treatment options,” said Dr. Tolosa. “We’re positive that through this multidisciplinary collaboration with seven medical societies and lung cancer patient groups, we can create real world impact to further improve health outcomes of our lung cancer patients.”

He added, “Earlier this year, the collaboration of AstraZeneca and AC Health successfully integrated an AI-based chest x-ray tool into key hospitals within the AC Health network, allowing patients to undergo early screening for lung nodules and assess their risk of malignancy. This collaboration enhances the accessibility of advanced diagnostic technology and enables healthcare providers to offer timely and accurate evaluations potentially improving patient outcomes.”

Fr. Jerry Orbos, a lung cancer survivor and spiritual adviser of LungHAP, recalled his own journey to conquering lung cancer. He exhorted patients and advocates to bank on faith despite the challenges of the disease. “Don’t give up on hope. Hold on to discipline, take your medicine, follow your doctors, and be patient. It’s a journey. Have a joyful mindset, and of course, faith in God. The big C is nothing compared to the biggest C, who is Christ.”

Carmen Auste of Cancer Coalition Philippines (CCPH), Inc. was also in attendance. She called for stakeholders, specifically authorities, to put a bigger emphasis on the voice of lung cancer patients. “Kailangan natin palakasin ‘yung boses ng survivors. Ang paniniwala po natin, anumang guideline or standard na gagawin, ito ay mas magiging responsive at makabuluhan kung nandoon ang lived experiences ng ating mga pasyente,” said Auste.

All the medical societies and patient advocacy groups then gathered to engage in a commitment exercise, further solidifying their partnership in the fight against lung cancer.

Finally, PCCP’s Dr. Janeth Samson closed the program by facilitating the launch of the PCCP Lung Cancer registry, which will further provide a caring, efficient network for lung cancer patients and their families. “This registry represents a critical step towards enhancing the knowledge base and improving outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer,” explained Dr. Samson.