Subic Bay News, Bahac-bahac (2025)

15/07/2025

SM BOOK NOOK LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE BOOK DONATION DRIVE

In celebration of SM Supermalls’ 40th anniversary, through its flagship literacy program SM Book Nook, is calling on communities nationwide to help spark the joy of reading by donating pre-loved books as part of the SM Book Nook Book Donation Drive, starting July 7, 2025 in all SM malls across the country.

Anchored on the theme “Under the Same Sky: Share the Magic of Stories,” this initiative encourages mallgoers, tenants, partners, and communities to donate quality books that will benefit children, families, and readers from all walks of life.

A portion of the books will be turned over to the National Library of the Philippines and its affiliate libraries, while others will support the expansion of SM Book Nook reading hubs to more SM malls and partner institutions nationwide.

“SM Book Nook was created to be more than a space—it’s a movement. With every book donated, we create ripples of knowledge, imagination, and inclusion. We believe that stories can bridge generations and uplift communities,” said Ms. Shereen T. Sy, pioneer of the SM Book Nook program under SM Cares.

The campaign aims to collect 40,000 books in line with SM’s 40th anniversary milestone. Each SM mall will serve as an official drop-off point, where specially designed donation boxes will be placed in strategic in-mall locations. Starting July 7, 2025, mall communities are invited to drop off pre-loved books in good condition—complete, clean, dry, and free from major damage.

Empower Communities Through Your Book Donations
Accepted books include fiction and non-fiction titles, children's books and young adult literature, academic and reference books, as well as magazines and comics in good condition.

Beyond donations, the campaign also highlights SM Cares’ long-term vision to make every SM mall a hub for inclusive learning, community engagement, and shared hope—especially for young readers and future leaders.

This initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Visit. Drop Off. Share a Story. Gather your pre-loved books and bring them to the SM mall nearest you. Through this collective effort, we aim to nurture a culture of learning, promote literacy, and inspire future generations—one story, one reader, and one community at a time.
You can drop your pre-loved books at Level 4 of SM City Olongapo Central and Level 3 of SM City Olongapo Downtown.

To learn more about the SM Book Nook and its community programs, stay tuned and visit https://linktr.ee/smbooknook or follow and on social media.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving with Every You
SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls in the Philippines and 8 in China—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences.
linktr.ee

15/07/2025

EMPOWERING CHANGE: SM CARES UNITES COMMUNITIES FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
In celebration of Philippine Environment Month 2025

As a long-standing advocate for sustainability, SM Cares—the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls—once again mobilized thousands of Filipinos in celebration of Philippine Environment Month, reinforcing its commitment to creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future through its movement for an .

Throughout the month of June 2025, SM Supermalls nationwide served as rallying points for environmental action, drawing in communities, partners, and changemakers through dynamic and impactful programs that aligned with the spirit of cycling for change, cleaning together, and conserving what matters.

Cycle: Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles
In celebration of World Bicycle Day, 26 SM malls across the country hosted community bike rides and various bike-related events—encouraging greener mobility while rallying support for various environmental and health initiatives. These bike rides weren't just about pedaling—they were about movement of people, ideas, and purpose.

Clean: Protecting Our Waters Together
To honor World Oceans Day, 18 SM malls led coastal and river cleanup drives in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), LGUs, youth groups, and private sector partners. The initiative drew over 5,000 volunteers and resulted in the collection of more than 30,000 kilograms of trash, showing how collective action can create real environmental impact.

Conserve with Purpose: Engaging Through Culture, Education, and Action
As part of its Environment Month campaign, SM Cares expanded its initiatives through a series of educational and cultural activities that promote purposeful conservation. These included a green film showing in partnership with government agencies to raise awareness on climate action and biodiversity, a bike-hike-plant activity that combined cycling, reforestation, and volunteerism, and a youth-led battle of the bands that fused music and environmental advocacy.

“These efforts reflect our deep commitment to help build a culture of sustainability in every community we serve,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and SM Cares Program Director for Environment. “An isn’t just a goal—it’s a responsibility that we proudly share with our mall-goers, employees, and partners.”

These initiatives also support several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 15: Life on Land, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals—demonstrating SM Cares’ continuing commitment to environmental stewardship through multi-sector collaboration and community engagement.

This Philippine Environment Month, SM Cares continues to prove that progress happens when communities come together—with every ride, every cleanup, and every small act of conservation bringing the country closer to a future that’s cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable.

Sustainably SM: Driving Collective Action for a Greener Tomorrow
As a Sustainable Mall, SM Cares champions environmental stewardship through inclusive and future-forward initiatives that promote sustainable living, climate resilience, and resource conservation.

By actively engaging mall-goers, communities, and partner organizations, SM Cares fosters collective action to reduce environmental impact, and build a greener, more resilient future. Through education, innovation, and strong partnerships, SM Cares leads the way in creating sustainable spaces and inspiring everyday environmental responsibility across generation.

40 Years of Building Better Communities
Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers—continuously evolving to lead the way in sustainable development by integrating green design, energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and environmental stewardship into its 88 malls in the Philippines, all while creating inclusive spaces that enrich communities, support climate action, and ensure a better, more sustainable future for generations of Filipino shoppers.

For more information about SM Cares and its environmental sustainability programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or follow on social media.
www.smsupermalls.com

01/07/2025

SM SUPPORTS OLONGAPO CITY’S ANNUAL TREE PLANTING ACTIVITY
In an effort to promote environmental sustainability and combat climate change, the City Agriculture Office successfully spearheaded a massive tree planting activity held on June 27, 2025, at Blk 27 Ext. Waterdam Road Sitio Banca-Bancaan Brgy. Gordon Heights. The event was joined by different group of participants, including SM employees, students and faculty from public and private schools, local private organizations, and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
The initiative aimed not only to restore green spaces and enhance biodiversity but also to raise awareness about the importance of community-driven environmental action. Nearly 600 volunteers came together to plant over 800 narra tree seedlings across the designated area.
Representatives from SM, participating schools, and NGOs expressed their continued support for similar activities in the future, highlighting the value of active civic engagement in nurturing a healthier, greener city. The tree planting activity is part of the celebration of the 59th Cityhood of Olongapo.

28/06/2025

SM BOOK NOOK HONORS DR. JOSE RIZAL AND INSPIRES OUR YOUTH

Book Nook at SM Podium welcomed a historic celebration on June 19, 2025, the 164th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, as the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) launched Ang Batang Babaeng Nagtitinda ng Posporo—a children’s book translated into Tagalog by none other than Dr. Rizal himself.

Dr. Rizal translated Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Match Girl into Tagalog in 1886 as a heartfelt gift to his nieces and nephews. The translation, originally titled Ang Batang Babaing Mai Dalang Sakafuego, is part of a series of fairytales Rizal worked on during his time in Germany. Among them were Ang Punong Pino (The Fir Tree), Ang Gahinlalaki (Thumbelina), Ang Pangit na Sisiu ng Pato (The Ugly Duckling), and Ang Sugu o Sugo (The Angel).

Held at Book Nook’s space inside SM Podium, the engaging event also featured a special storytelling session by the Kuwentistas of the National Library of the Philippines, bringing Rizal’s words to life for the next generation.

“We are honored that Book Nook was chosen as the launch venue for this meaningful release. Book Nook was created to be more than just a reading space—it is a home for stories that shape who we are,” said Mr. Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls. “This launch is yet another important milestone and part of our ongoing commitment to heritage learning, accessible education, and community storytelling.”

More than just a library, Book Nook is a literacy and community engagement initiative under SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls. It is a space designed to inspire curiosity, celebrate local and global narratives, and make storytelling accessible to all. With a dedicated NHCP Corner, Book Nook proudly supports history and heritage appreciation—bridging generations through books, culture, and meaningful partnerships.

This collaboration between NHCP and Book Nook reinforces their shared mission: to make Philippine history more accessible, engaging, and alive in the daily lives of Filipinos—especially the youth who Rizal once called “the hope of the motherland.”

If you or your organization would like to collaborate with Book Nook for storytelling sessions, workshops, or community events, we’d love to hear from you. Stay tuned and visit https://linktr.ee/smbooknook for more enriching activities in the coming months.

Visit Book Nook at SM Podium and be part of a growing community that celebrates reading and creativity. Bring a book to donate or swap with select titles from the collection, and discover a space where stories, art, and culture come to life. Let’s share the joy of reading—one book at a time!
linktr.ee

24/05/2025

SM PRIME GROUP WINS BIG AT THE 2025 PHILIPPINES LEADERSHIP AWARDS
SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SMPHI), SM Supermalls, and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) have been honored as among the Philippines’ Best Employer Brands for 2025. This recognition underscores the group's unwavering commitment to excellence in people management.
"Being recognized as the Best Employer Brand affirms our commitment to creating opportunities for every employee to experience 'More to Life' — by empowering our people, enriching lives, and shaping a better future for the communities we serve," said Jeffrey Lim, President of SMPHI. "This achievement was further strengthened by the individual recognition received by some of our Human Resources (HR) leaders, whose vision and dedication have been instrumental in building improvements in employee experience across the SM Prime Group.”
The accolade highlights SM Prime Group’s collective efforts in promoting a workplace culture that champions growth, collaboration, and inclusivity. Across its diverse businesses—from integrated property development to retail and residential services—SM Prime Group continues to implement strategies and initiatives designed to enhance the employee experience while achieving organizational goals.
Key initiatives such as digital learning platforms, employee wellness programs, coaching and mentoring, career mobility pathways, and community engagement activities have cultivated an environment where employees can learn, lead, and make a meaningful impact. These efforts not only contribute to individual growth but also promote a sense of belonging and purpose within the organization.
This achievement was further validated by the individual awards received by some of SM Prime Group's HR Heads: Cheryll Ruth Agsaoay, Senior Vice President-HR of SM Supermalls, was recognized as the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of the year; Margarita Castaneda, Vice President-HR of SM Prime Holdings, was honored as Top HR Icon; and Rhodora de Leon, Senior Assistant Vice President-HR of SMDC, was recognized among the Top Most HR Leaders. Additionally, Jay Rodriguez, Head for Recruitment and Employer Branding, and Clark del Carmen, Head for Digital Employee Experience, both from SM Supermalls, received individual recognitions for HR Super Achiever and Visionary Leader awards, respectively.
The Philippines Leadership Awards was held last April 28, 2025, at Dusit Thani Manila Hotel.

21/05/2025

SM PRIME: CREATING INFRASTRUCTURE FOR PLASTIC-FREE COMMUNITIES

According to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), the global production of plastics is forecasted to reach 1,100 million tonnes by 2050, with severe environmental, social, economic, and human health consequences.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) remains committed to creating thriving, sustainable cities.

With a waste-free future as part of its environmental strategy, SM Prime encourages the observation of International Plastic-free Day on May 25 and its call to rethink single-use plastics (SUP) for one day. Moreover, SM Prime celebrates the group-wide strides made to support the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022.

A group-wide movement for the EPR Law

The SM group, working with its Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS), is pursuing a group-wide strategy to comply with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)’s EPR Act of 2022.

Formally known as Republic Act 11898, the EPR law requires companies to take responsibility for the recovery of their plastic packaging products and to pursue waste management programs.

Acknowledging the challenges and realities for businesses and on-ground operations through its EPR working group committee, the SM group commits to a plan of action in reducing and recovering its plastic footprint within the given five-year period, sharing alternatives and new technologies to respond to the growing global crises, and establishing partnerships with government agencies and other private institutions.

As the property arm of the SM group, SM Prime’s commitment to a waste-free future aims to create the needed infrastructure that will help support and maintain plastic waste management strategies.

Crucial to waste recovery efforts, SM Prime equips its properties with a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), and standardized waste segregation and management practices to help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. A joint venture with a Japanese environmental solutions company, the SM GUUN Environmental Company, Inc. (SGECI), converts non-recyclable waste into cement fuel or “fluff fuel” for eco-conscious cement companies like APO Cement, Holcim, and Taiheiyo Cement, as part of its “co-processing” practice.

Beyond compliance

SM Prime continues with its established programs such as the nationwide Trash to Cash recycling market. Since 2007, it has been one of SM Supermalls’ flagship programs that continues to be more relevant given the times.

Activating the SM malls to help their communities with sorted plastic waste, Trash to Cash incentivizes the exchange of recyclables to provide a venue for plastic recovery. Fifteen SM Plastic Waste Collection sites likewise serve as drop-off points for clean, empty, and dry plastics. In addition, the Solid Waste Action Program (SWAP) reverse vending machines at SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia enable the diversion of aluminum cans and polyethylene terephthalate bottles (PET), which are considered high-value plastic products.
The annual International Coastal Clean-up (ICC), supported by SM Cares, continues to empower volunteers to take part in this global effort for a record-breaking initiative. In 2024 alone, SM Cares helped mobilize 23,000 employees, students, and various communities that joined nationwide volunteer efforts to remove trash from the world’s beaches and waterways.
Aiming for a waste-free future

Reduction is always the best option. The SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has long since eliminated SUPs from all properties in support of the UNEP’s campaign to phase them out. Pico Sands Hotel was also one of the first hotels to sign with the World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF) in their Ayoko Na Sa Plastic Campaign in 2018.

SMHCC has successfully replaced all single-use amenities, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) shampoo and shower gel bottles, and PET water bottles in all its hotel rooms. Since 2019, as part of the SMX Convention Centers’ guidelines to promote sustainable events management practices, bamboo or starch-based environmentally friendly alternatives to replace plastic cutlery are encouraged to minimize waste generation.

Working collectively as a group to reduce the effects of the plastic waste crises creates a bigger impact at a greater scale. Through enhanced waste management systems, effective waste segregation practices, and proactive community effort, SM Prime aims to successfully divert a greater proportion of plastic waste away from landfills.

“Our work is never done. There are new technologies, innovative solutions, and more avenues for collaboration to look forward to in making the EPR Act work for our communities,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. “But we all have a role to play--it is every individual’s responsibility to create a waste-free future.”

21/05/2025

Paulino has secured another term as the mayor of Olongapo City

On Tuesday, May 13, Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr. was formally recognized as the chief executive of the city by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) board of canvassers.
Mr. Paulino, an attorney and the son of former Mayor Rolen Paulino Sr., has successfully attained his third and final term, having garnered a total of 28,814 votes in the midterm elections conducted on May 12.
Councilor Kaye Ann Legaspi was also proclaimed the new vice mayor.
The city council welcomed several elected members, including Jamiel Khonghun Escalona, Vic-Vic Magsaysay, Tata Paulino, Rodolfo Catologan, Noel Atienza, Tet Marzan, BJ Cajudo, Gie Baloy, Ying Anonat, and Jack Gardon, all of whom aim to address community needs and promote progress.

21/05/2025

Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. was proclaimed the governor of Zambales after achieving a landslide victory in the province. Alongside Vice Governor Jaq Khonghun and 2nd District Congressman Bing Maniquiz, Ebdane expressed his gratitude to the beloved Zambaleños and assured them of his commitment to continuous progress and development in the province. (Zambales for the People)

19/05/2025

SM SUPERMALLS LEADS INCLUSIVE 2025 MALL VOTING
SM Supermalls, in collaboration with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), proudly concluded its nationwide Mall Voting Program (MVP) for the 2025 National and Local Elections, successfully hosting tens of thousands of registered voters across 20 SM malls.
A partial and unofficial count shows that more than 37,000 voters, representing an impressive 80% turnout, cast their ballots at 20 SM malls during this year’s MVP. Public response has been overwhelmingly positive, with voters interviewed during live media coverage praising the convenience, safety, and accessibility of the mall-based voting experience.
The initiative, which transformed participating SM malls into accessible polling places, emphasized service, safety, and convenience. As early as 5:00 AM, SM malls opened their doors to senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and pregnant women—underscoring the program’s mission of making voting inclusive and community-centered.
Heartwarming scenes unfolded across the country, as mall staff from SM Supermalls, COMELEC personnel, and tenant volunteers worked hand-in-hand to provide a smooth, dignified, and comfortable voting experience. Several mall tenants opened early to offer snacks and refreshments, while air conditioned and well-ventilated rest areas and directional assistance helped ensure a stress-free experience for all.
In a symbolic show of support, COMELEC Chair George Garcia personally visited SM City Manila to observe operations and commend the partnership.
The MVP reflects SM’s long-standing commitment to community engagement and civic service. "This is more than just about hosting precincts," said Junias Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations at SM Supermalls, "it’s about making every Filipino—especially the elderly and differently-abled—feel that their voices matter."
SM Supermalls will continue to collaborate with government partners and stakeholders in innovating ways to make public service more responsive and community- centered.
About SM Supermalls Government Services
SM Supermalls' Government Service Express (GSE) makes essential government services more accessible to Filipinos by bringing key agencies together in select malls nationwide. This one-stop hub offers ID applications, renewals, business registrations, permits, and more—all within a safe and convenient mall environment. Through strong partnerships with government agencies, SM Supermalls champions efficiency, inclusivity, and ease of access, redefining public service to better serve communities.

05/05/2025

WISH BUS AND LOCAL TALENTS’ UNFORGETTABLE LIVE MUSIC EXPERIENCE AT SM CITY OLONGAPO CENTRAL

Mallgoers were surprised last May 2 as the legendary Wish 107.5 Bus made a vibrant stop at SM City Olongapo Central, turning an ordinary day of shopping into an extraordinary celebration of local music.
The event featured a lineup of talented local artists who took to the bus’ signature glass-covered stage to perform original songs and fresh takes on crowd favorites.

Among the standout performers were Hakki, Thonzkie, Jaycee Griba and Sweet Patatas, who each brought their own energy and artistry to the stage. Their live sets didn’t just echo through the mall they resonated with the audience.

SM Supermalls is giving local musicians a bigger stage by partnering with Wish 107.5 to bring the Wish Bus to its malls in North Luzon. This collaboration provides rising Filipino artists the chance to perform live and reach a wider audience.

Known for its mobile recording studio, the Wish Bus has helped many local artists gain national recognition. The performances at SM malls create a fun, interactive experience for shoppers while promoting homegrown music. Some events even include meet-and-greet sessions with featured artists.

SM Supermalls invites music lovers to catch the Wish Bus tour at select malls on these dates:
April 25 - SM City Baliwag
May 2- SM City Olongapo Central
May 9 - SM City Pampanga
May 16 - SM City Cabanatuan
May 23 - SM City Baguio
June 6 - SM City Olongapo Downtown
June 13 - SM City Tuguegarao
June 20 - SM City San Fernando Downtown

Next stop is at SM CITY OLONGAPO DOWNTOWN on June 6, 2025.

Stay updated on featured artists by following SM Supermalls on social media or visiting www.smsupermalls.com
www.smsupermalls.com

22/04/2025

Shop your faves, Win the ultimate staycay vibes at SM City Olongapo Downtown’s Shop & Win promo

Get ready for a season of rewards and adventure as SM City Olongapo Downtown launches its much-awaited Shop and Win Promo, running from April 14 to June 15, 2025! Shoppers are in for a treat as every purchase gives them a chance to win exclusive prizes and experiences from their amazing partners: Sky Ranch Pampanga, Sinagtala Farm Resort, and Camaya Coast.
Simply shop at any participating store at SM City Olongapo Downtown and collect your raffle entries. The more you shop, the more chances you have to win exciting getaway packages, free passes, and special treats from their featured partner establishments.
This promo is SM’s way of thanking their loyal shoppers by giving them unforgettable experiences while also supporting their partner destinations. Don’t miss this chance to shop, win, and escape to fun-filled destinations. Promo runs from April 14 to June 15, 2025. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. R3-ZAM-154, Series of 2025. For more information, visit SM City Olongapo Downtown FB Page.

10/04/2025

: In observance of the Holy Week, please be guided of SM City Olongapo Central and SM City Olongapo Downtown’s mall hours from April 14-20, 2025.

Subic Bay News

15/07/2025

15/07/2025

01/07/2025

28/06/2025

24/05/2025

21/05/2025

21/05/2025

21/05/2025

19/05/2025

05/05/2025

22/04/2025

10/04/2025

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category