Laguna Finest

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SM Supermalls’ SM China shines at the 2024 ICSC Global Awards

SM Supermalls has once again demonstrated its excellence on the global stage, with SM China taking home four awards at the prestigious 2024 ICSC Global Awards. Held in Las Vegas, this event is the most recognized achievement for professional excellence in the retail industry, encompassing the MAXI Awards, Global Design & Development Awards, and Visual Victories Awards.

Out of thousands of entries worldwide, 70 finalists were selected, culminating in 49 Gold and Silver awards. SM China's projects stood out, earning three Golds and one Silver. Notably, SM Xiamen’s "Hi Tree! We, Forest" project not only secured a Gold in the Community category but was also honored as the "Best of the Best" – the highest recognition at the ICSC MAXI Awards. This project was selected from 22 gold-winning entries across seven categories, marking a significant achievement for SM Supermalls.

"We are incredibly proud of our teams at SM China for their innovative spirit and dedication to creating exceptional experiences for our customers. Winning these awards is a testament to our commitment to excellence in retail and community engagement. This achievement inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the retail industry," said SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan.

The award-winning programs of SM are as follows:

SM Xiamen’s Hi Tree! We, Forest

BEST OF THE BEST + GOLD (Community Category)

This innovative project, initiated in collaboration with SeeekLab, focuses on the social integration of people with autism through an accessible new media art exhibition. The initiative garnered significant social recognition, with 447,000 exhibition visitors, engagement from 53 non-profit organizations and enterprises, 15.39 million media impressions, and proceeds from ticket and merchandise sales donated to groups with special needs.

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SM City Chongqing’s Chic Surges, HANGFOOK Occurs

GOLD (Experiential Category)

In celebration of the Year of the Rabbit, SM City Yangzhou broke traditional New Year themes by featuring the internet-celebrated 'HANGFOOK' bunny artwork. This innovative campaign engaged 22,000 new SM members and achieved 2.81 million views of exposure, resonating with diverse communities through a unique malling experience.

SM City Tianjin’s Space Loop

GOLD (Integrated Marketing Initiatives Category)

  Leveraging its 560,000 square meter space, SM City Tianjin partnered with Taihe Music Group to launch Tianjin's first shopping center music festival, attracting 10,000 attendees. The event also featured themed bazaars and trendy sports activities, resulting in 2.8 million visits, a 23.58% increase in tenant sales, and 62.38 million media exposures.

SM City Chengdu’s Chengdu Fun Games

SILVER (Integrated Marketing Initiatives Category)

Integrated with the 31st Summer Universiade, SM City Chengdu's "Tech + Sports + Sales Promotion" events created a vibrant social hub. The initiative led to 157,000 interactions, a 153.8% increase in membership, and a 65.55% and 72.3% growth in foot traffic and sales, respectively, with a total of 7.4 million exposures.

The ICSC Global Awards recognizes the most outstanding and innovative retail projects worldwide, and SM China's success this year underscores its leadership in the industry. As SM Supermalls continues to expand and innovate, it remains dedicated to delivering world-class shopping experiences that resonate with communities and set new standards in retail excellence.

To know more about SM Supermalls’programs, visit www.smsupermalls.comor follow @SMSupermalls on social media. 

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Typhoon Aghon spurs SM South Luzon relief efforts

In response to the damage caused by Typhoon Aghon in South Luzon, SM Supermalls and SM Foundation’s Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) turned over 1,000 Kalinga Packs to affected areas.

SM City Calamba distributed essential Kalinga Packs to 110 families in Barangays Real and Uno in Calamba City. The distribution was led by Mall Management Team and other employee volunteers.

Meanwhile, the SM City San Pablo team reached more than 500 families in Barangays San Roque and San Rafael in San Pablo City, with the entire management team and volunteers ensuring the smooth distribution of the relief packs.

Additionally, SM City Lucena provided 655 relief packs to residents of Purok 7, Barangay Dalahican in Lucena City. This effort was led by Jason Terrenal, Senior Assistant Vice President for Operations. The affected families were grateful to receive support in these challenging times.

These initiatives exemplify the collaborative spirit of SM Foundation’s OPTE, highlighting the dedicated efforts of SM Supermalls and SM Markets employees and volunteers. By coming together during trying times, they demonstrate that collective action can make a significant difference. SM’s commitment to rebuilding lives and communities reaffirms its role as a caring ally to the community.

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SM Prime Holdings President recognized at Business Manual's CEO Awards Ceremony.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. President Jeffrey Lim was among the distinguished honorees at The Business Manual's CEO Awards ceremony, receiving accolades for his outstanding business acumen and exceptional leadership skills. This prestigious event recognized the country's most prominent entrepreneurs and business leaders for their invaluable contributions towards nation-building and for inspiring future generations of leaders.

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Pop Into the Holiday Spirit with SM B-Pop Bears of Joy

Because teddy bears still remain an iconic Christmas gift, SM Malls in SM City San Pablo, CM City Calamba , SM City Santa Rosa and SM Center San Pedro, invite shoppers to play Santa and send love to the less fortunate kids with their SM Bears of Joy campaign.

This year, SM is excited to introduce the 2023 BPOP Bears of Joy, inspired by the vibrant worlds of KPop and PPop. These adorable plushies come in four unique designs, collectively known as the BPop Squad 2023, featuring characters like Eya (the rapper), Bin (the dancer), Rina (the leader), and Ace (the vocalist).

What sets this campaign apart is the unwavering commitment to giving back. With each Bears of Joy purchase, shoppers not only gain an adorable companion but also play a pivotal role in making children’s Christmas special. Shoppers can buy a pair of toy bears, where one goes to the customer and the other is left for donation. All collected toy bears will be donated to SM’s chosen beneficiaries. These beneficiaries range from orphanages, child community centers, or related non-government organization.

Get ready to spread joy on November 15, 2023, as the Bears of Joy become available at designated booths at SM Malls in Laguna.

This heartwarming initiative is a collaborative effort between SM Cares, Toy Kingdom, and SM Supermalls, reflecting the true essence of the Christmas season.

Make this holiday season extra special by sharing the gift of warmth and joy with children in need through SM Bears of Joy!

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Chinabank’s 9-month net income reaches P16.2B

China Banking Corporation (Chinabank, PSE stock symbol: CHIB) recorded P16.2 billion in net income from January to September 2023, 10% higher compared to the same period last year.  This translated to a return on equity of 15.6% and a return on assets of 1.6%.  

Chinabank’s bottom line in the last nine months improved on the back of robust growth from core businesses and lower loan loss provisions.  For the third quarter alone, the bank netted P5.4 billion in profits, up 16% from the same period last year. 

“Chinabank’s sustained growth reflects the successful execution of our business strategies.  Despite the current high interest rate environment, we continue to grow our bottom line by preserving our margins, managing our overall costs effectively, and bringing greater efficiencies to our operations with technology,” Chinabank President & CEO Romeo D. Uyan, Jr. said.

Net interest income grew by 16% to P39.2 billion as the 44% surge in top line revenues cushioned the nearly triple increase in interest expense. Net interest margin was maintained at 4.2%.  

The bank reduced its total credit provisions to P1.3 billion given its stable portfolio quality. Despite this, non-performing loans (NPL) cover remained better-than-industry at 126%.     

Operating expenses increased by 14% to P20.5 billion, driven by higher manpower and inflation-related expenses and bigger volume and revenue-related taxes.  Cost-to-income ratio remained healthy at 50%.   

Chinabank remains as the 4th largest private domestic bank with total assets of P1.4 trillion, up 11% year-on-year.    

Gross loans grew by 10% year-on-year to P765 billion, driven by the 19% expansion in consumer loans, particularly teachers’ loans and credit cards. The bank’s level of bad loans continued to be manageable, posting a better-than-industry average NPL ratio of 2.2%.  

Total deposits increased by 14% to P1.1 trillion resulting to a 49% CASA ratio as term deposits grew year-on-year.

"Our balance sheet remains strong.  A quality loan book has helped us during a period of rising interest rates.  We also continued to optimize our capital structure, maintaining strong capital generation and asset quality,” Chinabank CFO Patrick D. Cheng said.   

Total capital grew by 7% to P141 billion, with Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio at 14.9% and Total Capital Adequacy Ratio at 15.8%, well above the minimum regulatory requirement. Book value per share was at P52.50, up 7%. 

Chinabank was recently named by the People Management Association of the Philippines as the 2023 Employer of the Year, the only bank to win the prestigious award in 30 years. This recognition for the bank's outstanding human resources practices comes in the heels of its latest accolades: Outstanding Wealth Management Service for the Affluent Award from the Private Banker International and Five-Golden Arrow Award from the Institute of Corporate Directors, the second time Chinabank has won this distinction for its excellence in corporate governance.

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The Marvels Has Arrived at SM Cinema

Higher. Further. Faster! Carol Danvers – the prodigal child of the Milky Way, has returned. She’s teaming up with the Night Light Kamala Khan and S.W.O.R.D.’s Monica Rambeau on a crucial mission to protect all planets from the vengeful schemes of Dar-Benn, a Kree warrior and an Accuser of the Kree Empire. Don’t miss the comeback of the Avenger Captain Marvel, and the debut of Park Seo-joon as Prince Yan in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with The Marvels, showing at SM Cinemas near you!

BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW! ​ : https://bit.ly/TheMarvelsAtSMCinema : SM Cinema app​ : SM Cinema ticket booths

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Experience an #AweSM Thanksgiving Celebration at SM Supermalls

With Christmas just around the corner, the Thanksgiving weekend is a time to give thanks by spending a hearty week-long feast with your loved ones at SM Supermalls with these amazing offerings. 

Say a little Thanksgiving prayer for your loved ones

Because it’s Thanksgiving, pause and reflect on the blessings of the past year. On November 26th, SM will be bringing its whole community together to offer thanks for all the blessings received throughout the year in a special Thanksgiving Holy Mass. 

Share a Thanksgiving Roast with the family

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without mouthwatering roast chicken, crispy pata, and lechon platters adorned with plenty of side dishes that will surely treat your taste buds. From November 19 to 26, let SM Supermalls indulge you in a Thanksgiving Roasts Dining Feast and experience a delectable selection of roasted goodness. 

Savor National Thank You Day with special treats

Say ‘Thank You’ to your loved ones with a special treat from McDonald’s and SM Supermalls! On November 23rd– a day dedicated to expressing gratitude– head over to McDonald’s stores in SM malls and discover exclusive Thanksgiving instant upsize or BOGO (Buy One, Get One) offers. 

Friendsgiving is extra special with these party bundles

Make your next dine-out with the squad extra memorable with these Friendsgiving Feast Party Bundles at SM. Perfect for sharing with your best pals. At SM, Thanksgiving is not just about family; it’s also about cherishing treasured bonds with friends. 

Create cherished photos at the Thanksgiving Photo Spots

Create core thanksgiving memories with your loved ones at SM Supermalls’ Thanksgiving Photo Spots. These spots are adorned with fun and playful Thanksgiving party-themed décor, featuring F.R.I.E.N.D.S-inspired props and balloon arc decorations. Fill your IG or your #FYPs with these snaps and share your gratitude with the world!

Thanksgiving is such a perfect time to not just count your blessings, but also create beautiful memories with your loved ones. So, gather your family and friends, head to your nearest SM mall, and experience a heartwarming Thanksgiving celebration filled with love, laughter, and treasured family moments! 

To know more about SM Supermalls’ Thanksgiving activities, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @SMSupermalls on social media. 

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SAW X, PLAYING SOON AT SM CINEMA

This is not retribution, this is reawakening. And it’s time to play a game of choice because the iconic Jigsaw (portrayed by veteran actor Tobin Bell) is back to deliver the ultimate game to choose between life and death. 

Time to invite all your thrill-seeking friends to set a date at SM Cinema near you to watch Saw X starting September 27 and enjoy the best cinematic experience with comfy seats, and the best screen display and digital surround sound. Experience all these as you munch on freshly popped, buttery popcorns and delectable snacks from Snack Time.

BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

🔗: https://www.smcinema.com

📱: SM Cinema app

🎟: SM Cinema ticket booths

#SawX

#SawXAtSMCinema

#SMCinema

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A VERY GOOD GIRL IS NOW SHOWING AT SM CINEMA

The day of the reckoning is coming, mother. Meet two self-made women - Asia's Superstar Kathryn Bernardo playing the provoking role of Phili, and BAFTA and Golden Globe nominee Dolly de Leon as Molly. Unveil the story behind their success, and rage. 

Don't miss the most awaited movie A Very Good Girl, showing from September 27 at SM Cinema so go ahead and set a movie date with your girlfriends.

BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

: https://bit.ly/AVeryGoodGirlAtSMCinema 

📱: SM Cinema app

🎟: SM Cinema ticket booths

#AVeryGoodGirl

#AVeryGoodGirlAtSMCinema

#SMCinema

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Every drop matters at SM: How to save water even during the rainy season

The wet season is here! But that does not mean that we should waste our water supply. While many parts of Metro Manila have observed heavy rainfall recently, some parts of the country still experience insufficient rain, which further declines the water level supply in our reservoir dams. It is no secret that water is an essential resource used every day for cleaning ourselves, the food we eat, and our surroundings to prevent the spread of diseases. To help alleviate the impacts of climate change, here are nine practical strategies to save water.

Reduce Shower Time: Shorten showers by aiming for about just five minutes, to conserve water and energy for heating.

Don’t Leave the Tap Water Running: To prevent unnecessary water waste, turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth, washing your face, and cleaning the dishes.

Turn off the tap when not in use.

Reuse Water: Reuse water used for washing rice and vegetables or rinsing dishes to water indoor plants. Laundry water can also be used for toilet flushing.

Sweep Instead of Hose:  Save water by sweeping the dirt on sidewalks and roads instead of using a hose to clean them.

Use Only Full Loads of Laundry: Wait until you have a full load of laundry before using your washing machine to maximize water efficiency.

Fix Leaks ASAP: Immediately fix even small leaks in your home’s plumbing system because it can eventually waste a lot of water.

Water Plants Sensibly: Water your plants in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.

              

                           The SM’s ­recycled mall wastewater is used for watering gardens, among others

Collect Rainwater: Set up rain barrels or containers to capture rainwater for outside uses like cleaning, watering plants, or filling toilet bowls.

SM City Baguio features a water catchment basin designed to gather and treat water for recycling within the mall.

As a part of every community that it serves, SM Supermalls is aware of the fundamental role it can play in promoting water security and conservation, championing water reuse, and being the catalyst of a sustainable solution. Water catchment basins in 25 malls have been installed to help prevent flooding as well as soil erosion during heavy downpours. In its malls nationwide, water is reused for non-potable use, such as cleaning the malls, flushing toilets, and watering plants. Last July, SM City Baguio introduced the first of its-kind in a mall-setting facility that converts rainwater into potable water and contributes to the city’s water management measures.

Raise awareness to others: Spread the word about water conservation among family, friends, and neighbors to create a positive impact and viable solutions.

Keep in mind that every little bit helps, and by putting these water-saving tips into practice, we can significantly contribute to preserving this vital resource for everyone’s future.

Observe water conservation measures to help battle the effects of climate change.

To know more about SM Supermalls’ water conservation efforts, visit SM Supermalls or follow SMSupermalls on social media. 

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Big Shopping Extravaganza at SM City Santa Rosa 3 Day Sale

Welcome the BER months and have an early holiday shopping spree at the SM ! Shop all you want at the SM City Santa Rosa  3-Day Sale happening on September 29, 30  and October 1! Checkout the blazing deals of up to 70% off mall wide, and be the lucky winner to bring home a Suzuki Avenis motorcycle during the raffle draw. Get your shopping carts and bags ready ‘cos we’re entering our SUPER month era!  #SM3DaySale is BACK Kaya bring the whole fam and squad for an #ExperienceTogetherAtSM that’s sulit and… so lit! For more promos and updates be sure to check SM City Santa Rosa Official Facebook page.

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UP NEXT FOR SM: TWO NEW MALLS IN LAGUNA AND BATANGAS

The retail behemoth is making good on its target to open 100 malls by 2026. SM, the country’s largest retailer and one of the largest property developers in Asia, is celebrating 65 years this year. Its mall business, in particular, is on a roll. In May, SM inaugurated its 83rd mall in Balanga City, Bataan and malls number 84 and 85 are not far behind. 

According to SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, the company is on track to open two more malls before the end of the year: one in Sto. Tomas, Batangas, and another in San Pedro, Laguna.

Five more giant malls will open next year, including two in the Ilocos region: one in Laoag City, the first SM mall in Ilocos Norte; and the other in the province of La Union.

The Philippines is the sweet spot of Asia, I would say because of our population, our demographics is very young, the median age is very young. So, there is a lot of potential. A lot of the brands are looking to our country,” said Tan.

Tan also shared SM’s plans during his speech at the Tenant-Partners Summit on Monday (September 4) at SMX, which served as the kickoff activity of the company’s 65th anniversary this year. The keynote speaker was bestselling author, podcast host, and thinker Malcolm Gladwell, who talked about the shifting landscape of retail and how businesses can communicate with and understand their customers better, particularly young people.

SM, which was founded by the late tycoon Henry Sy Sr., is the country’s largest conglomerate, with interests in retail, banking, property development, and hospitality. As of September 2023, the company had a market capitalization of over P1 trillion. (excerpt from Esquire ph)

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SM’s Biggest Haul at the 38th International Coastal Clean Up: 

75,000 Kilos of Trash Collected By over 17,000 Volunteers Across 15 SM Malls

SM Cares continues to drive active participation in ocean conservation by taking part once again in this year’s International Coastal Cleanup Day last September 16, 2023, Saturday.

SM’s goal was to gather the biggest haul of trash and marine debris. This year’s efforts amounted to 75,033kg collected with the support of SM’s biggest participation since 2015 – 15 SM malls in 12 locations in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This enabled more volunteers, totaling 17,026 SM employees and members of various sectors to join more clean-ups throughout the country.

Photo caption as The shores of Cagayan River get cleaned by volunteers from SM City Tuguegarao &SM Center Tuguegarao Downtown

SM spearheads numerous cleanup drives throughout the year in support of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030). In line with this year’s UN Ocean Decade Challenge, Sustainably Feed the Global Population, SM’s projects on water conservation, including the recycling and treatment of water from handwashing and rainwater harvesting, highlights the importance of community initiative in minimizing pollution, protecting fisheries and helping maintain potable water sources for everyone. 

“We all have a responsibility to help protect and safeguard our marine environment, its resources, and the communities it serves,” said SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and SM Cares Program Director for the Environment Engr. Liza B. Silerio. “A cleaner ocean means a better future for generations to come.”

The coastal cleanup drive is one of the many projects mounted by SM Cares and leading real estate developer, SM Prime Holdings Inc., to support the marine environment and ocean conservation efforts of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030).

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SM SUPERMALLS LAUNCHES 100 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

Surprising shoppers every day till December 25th

The countdown to Christmas Day begins on September 16 as SM launches a host of fun activities, deals, and surprises for each member of the family.

It starts with surprises each day! From September 16 to December 25, someone lucky will be surprised, one mall at a time, with toys, gifts, groceries and meals on us as SM begins 100 Days of Christmas Surprises. Which mall will delight someone today? Come to SM to find out!

WHAT ELSE IS A-HAPPENIN’?

Breathtaking Spectacles, to mark the festive season, will dazzle you at your favorite SM mall. Your favorite malls will all be dressed with a dazzling display of holiday magic and sparkling Christmas centrepieces await shoppers inside the malls for that IG-worthy moment.

Start your holiday gift shopping early on with a trove of artisan products and services from local MSMEs at the Holiday Bazaars. Toys, games, and collectibles are waiting to make this holiday season unforgettable at the Christmas Toy Fairs, in partnership with Toy Kingdom and Toy Kingdom Express.

Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s bringing his merry squad along! Captivating performances, musicales, ensure there’s something for everyone at every visit.

Pets are family too, and SM Supermalls knows it! Bring your furry friends to select SM malls for a pawsome Christmas Pawty packed with games and prizes for furbabies in pet costumes.

Welcome our Overseas Filipino Workers and Families! With the help of BDO Kabayan, SM Supermalls will be bringing holiday cheer to our modern-day heroes at the Pamaskong Handog by BDO Kabayan in SM City Cebu, SM City Fairview, and SM City General Santos with Superstars, prizes, and laughs galore.

Let’s not forget that you can make a positive impact on the lives of those in need while enjoying your shopping. Buy one SM Cares’ Bears of Joy, and we will donate to one underprivileged child.

And the fun never ends! On News Year’s Eve, welcome 2024 with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration at SM Mall of Asia, SM Seaside Cebu, SM Lanang, and SM CDO Uptown.

To know more about SM Supermalls’ 100 Days of Surprises, visit https://gosm.link/100DaysOfChristmasSurprises for daily surprise videos, http://www.smsupermalls.com, and follow @SMSupermalls on social media for all the Christmas surprises!

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Farmers from Laguna benefited from SM Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan Farmers’Training Program

A total of 75 farmers from Laguna are now equipped with new knowledge and skills about farming after they have completed the 14-week training of SM Foundation Inc.’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) Farmers’ Training Program.

The KSK Farmers Training Program on Sustainable Agriculture recently culminated the activity with a bountiful harvest festival and graduation ceremony held at SM City Calamba, SM City San Pablo and SM City Santa Rosa.

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SM Supermalls actively participated in the third quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) held last September 7.The actual earthquake drill, participated by shoppers, tenants, and employees, took place during regular mall operating hours. Evacuation and rescue drill simulations were carried out to enhanced the mall’s Emergency Response Team preparedness and coordination among tasked units. Working hand in hand, Medical as well as Search & Rescue Team gave first aid treatment to a simulated trauma victim at the mall. Staged at exactly 2pm, the drill demonstrated various crisis scenarios of an earthquake to raise public awareness about the proper emergency response during and after this hazard. Employees and tenants were evacuated to the open spaces of the mall. In addition to simultaneous nationwide earthquake drill, SM malls in Laguna also conducts an annual refresher course for its employees, tenants, and affiliates on fire and earthquake preparedness. Topics like worst-case scenarios during fire and earthquake, evacuation routes, and first aid treatment were all being discussed to help the the mall handle crisis if ever it will happen

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It was a Groovy Grandparents Day Celebration at SM Malls in Laguna

This Grandparents Day, SM Supermalls is throwing a celebration that’s all about honoring the ones who’ve helped us grow and learn. So take your grandparents to your favorite SM mall and get ready to have a grand time at the Grandparents Day festivities! Here at SM , we celebrate the incredible love, wisdom, and warmth that our grandparents bring into our lives. They are the keepers of cherished stories, the source of endless laughter, and the embodiment of unconditional love.To all the grandparents out there, your presence is a gift beyond measure. Your guidance has shaped us, your stories have inspired us, and your love has warmed our hearts. Thank you for being the pillars of our families and for showering us with love! Happy Grandparents Day and Happy Sunday, everyone!!