Subic Sun

11/10/2025

GET AHEAD OF THE HOLIDAYS AT SM SUPERMALLS

It's officially Christmas season in the Philippines—and yes, we're starting early! From the moment the “-ber” months roll in, homes are already dressed in twinkling lights, and families are making lists of gifts and holiday must-haves. It:s a good thing SM Supermalls has everything you need to get a head start on your Christmas prep!

Whether you're hunting for festive décor or shopping for the perfect presents, SM's wide selection of affiliates and tenants makes it easy (and fun!) to kick off the holidays ahead of time. Here are some go-to spots worth checking out on your next mall visit:

Deck your space with ornaments and decor from SM HOME
There's no Christmas without décor, and SM Home is where you'll find it all—sparkling lights, festive wreaths, Santa figurines, and ornaments in every color scheme you can imagine. While you're at it, pick up holiday-ready fashion pieces so your whole family can shine at reunions and Christmas parties.

Create a cozy Christmas haven at OUR HOME
Transform your living space into a warm holiday retreat. At Our Home, you can deck out your sala with stylish furniture, chic accents, and seasonal touches that set the scene for those picture-perfect holiday moments.

Give the gift of self-care with WATSONS
Your fave go-to spot for self-care is packed with beauty bundles, skincare sets, and wellness essentials—perfect for those who deserve a little pampering this season. It’s also a great place to curate your own holiday gift packs.Give the gift of self-care with Watsons.

Put together festive Christmas baskets at SM MARKETS
Make your holiday gifting even more special with thoughtfully prepared Christmas baskets. At SM Markets (SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and SaveMore), you:ll find everything you need—from pasta, ham, wine, and queso de bola to chocolates and imported treats—to create the perfect holiday bundle for your family and friends.

Spark joy with toys from TOY KINGDOM
Make Christmas morning magical for kids (and kids at heart!) with Toy Kingdom's wide selection of dolls, action figures, building blocks, and collectibles. It's the happiest place for ticking off every child's Christmas wish list.
Christmas, made easy at SM!

Getting a head start on your holiday prep means less stress and more time for the things that truly matter—celebrating with the people you love. At SM Supermalls, Christmas is always within reach, whether you’re decorating your home or shopping for gifts.

So why wait? Start your Christmas preparations now, and make every moment of the season extra merry and bright. Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow on social media to know more about their holiday deals and promos.

08/10/2025

SBITC gets another 25-year lease in NCT operations

By Percy Roxas

Subic Bay Freeport – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has given subsidiaries of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) permission to extend their New Container Terminals (NCTs) operation for another 25 years.

The Memorandum of Agreement between SBMA and ICTSI was signed at the ACEA Subic Beach Resort in Subic Bay Freeport on Oct. 3, 2025.

SBMA chairman and administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said ICTSI subsidiaries, Subic Bay International Terminals Corp. (SBICT) and ICTSI Subic Inc. (ISI), will continue to operate and manage the New Container Terminals 1 and 2 (NCT-1 and NCT-2).

Aliño and ICTSI executive vice president Christian Gonzalez signed the MOA, witnessed by SBITC Vice Chairman Juan Miguel Delgado and SBMA Director Honorio Allado III. The MOA will allow the SBITC and ICTSI to operate and manage NCT-1 and 2 until the year 2058.

SBITC plans to invest over USD$130 million in civil infrastructure and additional equipment as part of its investment and development plan under the extended concession.

These will include the replacement of the terminal's s four existing quay cranes and acquisition of one additional quay crane, increasing the total to five, as well as the integration of more hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes.

According to VP Gonzalez, these investments will further enhance terminal capabilities, boost operational efficiency, and increase the combined annual capacity of NCT-1 and NCT-2 from 600,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to one million TEUs.

“We are thankful to SBMA for trusting us and treating us as the right partner to continue until 2058.

"Across all the 30-plus terminals we operate around the world, no matter how difficult the place, no matter how challenging, the one thing that represents the trust in ICTSI and the partnership with the local authorities–the government and the regulators–is seeing your contract extended,” he added.

NCT serves as a critical international shipping gateway for industries in Central and Northern Luzon, including the economic zones of Subic and Clark.

Part of the expansion and upgrades includes the SBITC’s increase in re**er plug capacity to 1,000 by the end of 2025 to support cold chain logistics.

Recent additions to its fleet include near-zero emission (NZE) rubber-tired gantry cranes, tractors, and trailers to improve terminal efficiency.

Plans are also underway to automate gate operations by early 2026 and implement a new digital platform for online payments and truck appointments. (30)


PHOTO CAPTION: @
SBMA chairman and administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño (right) and Subic Bay International Terminal chairman and president Christian Martin R. Gonzales sign the agreement for the 25-year extension of the management of the New Container Terminal held Friday at the Acea Subic Beach Resort in Subic Bay Freeport.

08/10/2025

SM CITY OLONGAPO DOWNTOWN GEARS UP FOR THE EXCITING 3-DAY SALE

Get Ready for the Biggest 3-Day Sale! Shop 'til you drop at the SM 3-Day Sale happening on October 17, 18 & 19!

Enjoy up to 70% off on great finds from your favorite brands mallwide. Plus, get a chance to win a brand new Suzuki Jimny 5-door GL MT and exciting prizes when you shop.

For every P1000 purchase during the 3-Day Sale, shoppers will earn one e-raffle entry for a chance to win a Suzuki Jimny 5-door GL MT. On Saturday and Sunday, shoppers will receive double entries, doubling their chances of winning this fantastic prize.

To further increase the odds, SM Malls online account holders will receive an additional five entries for the e-raffle.

For SMAC and Prestige members, exclusive perks await during the 3-Day Sale. Prestige members can enjoy an extra 10% off on October 17, the entire day, while SMAC members can avail themselves of the additional discount from October 18 & 19.

It's the perfect opportunity for shoppers to grab their favorite items at unbeatable prices.
Don't miss this perfect time to score the best deals before the holidays — mark your calendars and see you at SM City Olongapo Downtown!

06/10/2025

SM CARES STRENGTHENS ADVOCACY FOR SENIORS DURING
ELDERLY FILIPINO WEEK

Leading the Elderly Filipino Week 2025 celebration at SM Mall of Asia, SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, and the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) honored the pivotal role of Filipino seniors in nation-building, while advocating for their continued inclusion and empowerment.

With the theme “Embracing Age: Living a Life with Dignity and Purpose,” the event gathered hundreds of senior citizens and partner organizations for a day filled with wellness activities, recreation, and meaningful engagement. The program featured a Eucharistic celebration, a Walk for Life, uplifting messages from senior citizen advocates, and a lively Zumba session that highlighted the energy and vitality of the elderly community.

Wellness booths offering free services—including medical consultations, massage and acupuncture, eye care, and e-government ID registration—were set up around the venue, providing participants with access to programs that promote health, inclusion, and continuous learning.

“Our seniors have given so much to their families and communities. Through Elderly Filipino Week, SM Cares reaffirms its commitment to championing the welfare of our elderly, making sure they feel celebrated, supported, and empowered,” said Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SM Cares Program Director for Senior Citizens.

“We are deeply grateful to SM Cares for walking hand in hand with us in celebrating and empowering our senior citizens through meaningful activities like this,” shared Ana Marie C. Calapit, Acting Executive Director of the National Commission of Senior Citizens.

This year’s celebration once again reinforced SM Supermalls’ commitment to inclusivity by fostering spaces where generations can meaningfully connect. It also highlighted the importance of building supportive communities for seniors—both within the mall and in the broader society.

For years, SM Cares has been at the forefront of programs for senior citizens, from barrier-free mall facilities, emergency preparedness forums to social development initiatives. Through Elderly Filipino Week 2025, SM Cares continues to highlight the invaluable contributions of seniors while promoting wellness, dignity, and purpose at every stage of life.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 88 malls in the Philippines—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences.

05/10/2025

MOU to boost recycling sector in SBF signed

Subic Bay Freeport – Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Port of Subic signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will regulate the admission of recyclable non-hazardous materials inside this Freeport.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and BOC-Port of Subic District Collector Noel C. Estanislao signed the MOU that will boost the recycling sector in the freeport, at the Corporate Boardroom of the Administration Building here on October 2, 2025.

“This agreement will not only ensure proper regulation of recyclable non-hazardous materials, but also enhance our shared efforts to safeguard our borders, protect the environment, and support legitimate industries within the Freeport,” Estanislao said.

The MOU stipulates that the SBMA has formulated the Proposed Guidelines relative to the Admission of Non-Hazardous Materials, in line with the Freeport’s policies and regulations, and to facilitate the admission of goods and operations in the recycling industry.

The MOU also states that both agencies will coordinate and collaborate to ensure the smooth, transparent, compliant, and efficient conduct of recycling operations, exchange of information on the recycling industry, and provision of capacity building initiatives for SBMA and BOC personnel, as well as registered SBFZ recyclers, to ascertain proper understanding of policies and guidelines.

A policy review will also be conducted to periodically assess and evaluate its applicability and propose recommendations as needed, to rectify and address operational gaps and challenges, and changing circumstances.

Aliño expressed his gratitude to the BOC Port of Subic for the unwavering commitment to nation-building, citing that the collaboration between government agencies and the private sector is necessary in attracting more businesses while protecting the environment.

Recyclable non-hazardous materials are identified as common waste items such as paper, cardboard, metals (cans), glass (bottles and jars), and certain plastics (such as pet bottles) that generally do not pose a significant threat to human health or the environment.

While generally safe, proper sorting and cleaning of these materials are essential to prevent contamination and ensure they can be processed for reuse, thereby conserving resources and reducing landfill waste, which eventually benefit the environment.
- more -
Senior Deputy Administrator for Regulatory Amethya Dela Llana said that the Subic Bay Freeport has 12 companies in the recycling industry, with four other companies eyeing to set up their businesses here.

Dela Llana added that the SBMA regularly conducts Recyclables Collection Events (RCEs) and weekly recycling initiatives to collect these materials for recycling and upcycling, the proceeds of which support charities like ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation.

Prior to the MOU signing, a public hearing was held at the Subic Bay Yacht Club where locators were presented with Proposed Guidelines, Implementing Procedures, Liquidation reports, and Basis of Fines and Penalties in the Admission of Non-Hazardous Materials in the SBFZ. (30)

PHOTO CAPTION:

[1] Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Port of Subic District Collector Noel Estanislao sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will regulate the admission of recyclable non-hazardous materials and boost the recycling sector, at the Corporate Boardroom of the Administration Building here on October 2, 2025.

[2] Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Port of Subic District Collector Noel C. Estanislao present the signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will regulate the admission of recyclable non-hazardous materials and boost the recycling sector, at the Corporate Boardroom of the Administration Building here on October 2, 2025.

[3] Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Port of Subic District Collector Noel C. Estanislao shared a brief handshake to “seal the deal” after signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will regulate the admission of recyclable non-hazardous materials and boost the recycling sector, at the Corporate Boardroom of the Administration Building here on October 2, 2025.

02/10/2025

GET READY FOR AN EPIC OCTOBER
SM Supermalls Celebrates SuperKids Month with Nonstop Fun!

This October, SM Supermalls is rolling out the red carpet for the stars of the season—the SuperKids! From superheroes and anime icons to world cultures and adorable monsters, SM malls will transform into vibrant playgrounds filled with fun, fashion, and fantasy.

With a lineup of exciting events, contests, and parades, SuperKids Month is a celebration of imagination, self-expression, and community spirit. Kids are invited to dress up, join the fun, and shine in their most colorful costumes at select SM malls.

Shine like a true hero at the Super Hero Weekend (October 4 and 5)
The celebration kicks off with Super Hero Weekend, where kids can suit up in costumes inspired by their favorite heroes. A showcase of courage, creativity, and bold imagination, this action-packed event will reward five winners with ₱3,000 each.

Conquer the cosplay stage at the SuperKids Cosplay Quest (October 4, 11, 12, and 19)
Anime and pop culture take the spotlight as SuperKids transform into their beloved and fave characters. The most impressive cosplayer will be honored, with five winners each receiving P3,000.00.

Spread the Christmas cheer at the SuperKids Holidays (October 20 onwards)
Holiday magic begins early with SuperKids Holidays, as SM malls launch their Christmas festivities. From lively dances to heartwarming songs, SuperKids will light up the stage and spread joy as part of the grandest holiday celebration in the country.

Celebrate world cultures during the United Nations Week (October 20–25)
Diversity shines bright at United Nations Week, where kids proudly wear costumes inspired by cultures from around the world. A colorful parade of unity and tradition awaits, with three Best in National Costume winners receiving ₱2,000 worth of gift certificates each. Adding more excitement, the school with the most participants across all contest days will win ₱15,000 in GCs.

Show off your monster moves at the Monsterrific Halloween (October 31)
The month ends with a frightfully fun Monsterrific Halloween Costume Contest and Trick or Treat. From adorable monsters to magical fairies, kids will parade their spooky and silly looks for a Halloween showdown to remember. Five winners will each receive ₱2,000 worth of gift certificates in this spooktacular finale.

Shop for toys, treats, and costumes at the SuperKids Month Fair
All month long, families can complete the experience at the SuperKids Month Fair. Toy Kingdom offers superhero, anime, and monster-themed toys, SM Supermarket brings candies and Halloween goodies, while SM Store features costumes that instantly transform every child into their favorite character. It’s the ultimate one-stop shop for SuperKids fun.
Celebrate your child’s imagination and let them shine at SuperKids Month this October. For full mechanics and event details at select SM malls, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow on social media.

01/10/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1QUrTFz6xK/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Cash donations for the communities affected by the recent earthquake in Northern Cebu are now being accepted at SM Supermalls nationwide.

You may also donate through the details below. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference. 💙

30/09/2025

OVER 40,000 JOIN SM CARES IN CHAMPIONING INCLUSION

In celebration of National Disability Rights Week 2025, SM Cares—the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls—reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to inclusivity through a series of meaningful events and initiatives designed to uplift, empower, and celebrate Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Held across multiple SM malls nationwide, this year's celebration served as a powerful reminder of the right of every person to live with dignity, opportunity, and equal access to spaces and services. From signature gatherings that brought together thousands, to advocacy-driven programs centered on resilience and education, SM Cares continues to champion a more inclusive and compassionate society for all.

Flagship events that touched lives
One of the biggest highlights of this year's celebration was the Angels Walk for Autism, held in partnership with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP). Drawing over 40,000 participants at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, the event was a powerful show of unity, awareness, and acceptance for individuals on the autism spectrum.

SM Cares also proudly hosted the Happy Walk for Down Syndrome, a nationwide celebration in collaboration with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines (DSAPI). The event honored the unique talents and contributions of individuals with Down Syndrome, reinforcing the importance of inclusion and visibility.

Meanwhile, the Emergency Preparedness Forum, another hallmark initiative by SM Cares, continued its mission to equip senior citizens and persons with disabilities with life-saving knowledge. Through disaster-readiness training, participants gained practical tools to enhance personal resilience in times of crisis.

In addition, SM Cares conducted Sensitivity Training for mall frontliners and staff, further ensuring that every customer—regardless of ability—is met with empathy, respect, and the highest standards of care.

Spaces built for everyone
Beyond events, SM Supermalls also ensures its malls are physically accessible. Facilities such as Braille signage at elevators, accessible parking, wheelchair lifts, dedicated restrooms for persons with disabilities, and trained mall personnel are just a few of the permanent features that reflect its continued investment in barrier-free environments.

Looking ahead
As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility, SM Cares is set to host two meaningful events for persons with disabilities this August 2025: Movies for the Blind at SM Megamall on August 2, and The Blackout Zone, an immersive awareness activity, at SM North EDSA from August 25 to 29. Both aim to foster empathy and provide meaningful, accessible experiences for all participants.

A call to community
"At SM Cares, we believe that creating a truly inclusive world begins with listening, learning, and walking alongside the people we serve,”said Steven T. Tan, SM Supermalls President. "National Disability Rights Week is more than a commemoration—it’s a call to action to build a kinder, more accessible future.”

As SM Cares continues to champion inclusivity by empowering persons with disabilities, the public is invited to take part in its annual advocacy programs that promote awareness, understanding, and support for the community.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia's largest mall developers with 88 malls in the Philippines—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences. (30)

28/09/2025

New exciting option for Korean food lovers

28/09/2025

THE K-NYEOMON NOW OPEN AT SM CITY OLONGAPO DOWNTOWN

SM City Olongapo Downtown is pleased to announce the opening of The K-Nyeomon, a fresh and exciting addition to its dining scene.

The K-Nyeomon offers a dynamic menu inspired by the vibrant street food culture of Korea — featuring everything from crispy Korean fried chicken and spicy tteokbokki to hearty bibimbap and savory stews. With its modern decor and inviting atmosphere,The K-Nyeomon promises to be a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, dinner with friends, or simply a new culinary experience, The K-Nyeomon delivers authentic Korean flavors in a contemporary setting. Located at Ground level of SM City Olongapo Downtown.

Drop by and enjoy this exciting new culinary destination and dig into flavorful Korean rice bowls, tasty samgy bento meals. For more information, visit SM City Olongapo Downtown FB Page. (30)

21/09/2025

SM CONTINUES COMMITMENT TO A WASTE-FREE FUTURE THROUGH INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEANUP 2025

In line with its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement, SM City Olongapo Central and SM City Olongapo Downtown once again joined hands with volunteers, government agencies, and environmental organizations for the annual International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) 2025, held on September 20 at Parola, Brgy. Kalaklan Olongapo City and across various coastal areas in the Philippines.

Thousands of SM employees, mall tenants, security and housekeeping personnel, and community partners actively participated in cleanup drives held in key coastal locations near SM malls. The volunteers collected and segregated plastic waste, marine debris, and non-biodegradable materials, highlighting the importance of proper waste management and collective action.

SM’s participation in the ICC is more than just a one-day event. It is part of a broader advocacy to promote environmental responsibility and protect the country's rich marine biodiversity. Through its long-standing partnership with various organizations, SM continues to raise awareness and encourage more Filipinos to take part in preserving our coastlines and waterways. (30)

21/09/2025

OVER-PRICED STREET LAMPS ISSUE IN 'GAPO: ASK DPWH, SAYS KHONGHUN

By Percy Roxas

Subic Bay Freeport Zone -- Congressman Jefferson "Jay" Khonghun, in response to media queries about the alleged over-pricing of solar street lights in an ongoing project in the first district of Zambales, said those who have questions should ask the Department of Public Works and Highway's (DPWH) and not him.

Khonghun was speaking as the featured resource person at the monthly "Talakayan sa Subic Freeport" press briefing on Sept 19, 2015.

"You are barking at the wrong tree," said Rep. Khonghun.

He said his job was only to source out funds for projects. "I wasn't in any way involved in implementation."

The media was clarifying the issue raised by some posts in social media alleging that a total of Php113.1 million has been earmarked for the solar lamps project for the streets of Olongapo, a project of the congressman.

Another FB post broke down the cost of the street lights in the project to be allegedly Php264,159 each, and labeled it "too expensive."

On April 22, 2024, Khonghun's FB page posted the start of the installation of solar lamps in the streets of Mabayuan and Kalaklan to Baretto. He said it was part of the same project in Subic town and San Marcelino, Zambales.

"Pinondohan po ito ng ating opisina at implemented ng DPWH para sa mamamayan ng Olongapo at First District," Khonghun said in the post.

The project was praised by many Olongapenos but at the same drew a lot of criticisms, particularly for the alleged over-pricing of the street lights

But Khonghun, who is also deputy speaker of the Lower House, said criticisms against him and the project were politically-motivated.

"Kaligtasan sa kalsada ang nasa ating isipan," he pointed out. ("Our mind is on safety in the streets.")

"Ask the DPWH " he reiterated. "I have no involvement in the bidding, contract signing or implementation of the said project."

khongjun said he plans to file a resolution in Congress for an investigation on all government agencies, including local government units. (30)