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Collectors and anime fans, get ready! Gashapon™ Bandai Official has officially unveiled its largest store in the Philippines, right in SM Mall of Asia. Bringing the charm of Japan’s classic capsule collectibles closer to home, this is the ultimate destination for anyone who loves the thrill of discovering something special.

Classic Collectibles with a Modern Twist

The term gashapon is a playful nod to its iconic vending machine sounds: “gasha” for the handle’s turn and “pon” for the capsule’s drop. This simple yet magical experience has captivated collectors worldwide, offering a sense of nostalgia wrapped in every tiny surprise.

For decades, gashapon has been synonymous with Japan’s playful and imaginative culture. Now, Filipinos can immerse themselves in this beloved tradition at the Gashapon™ Bandai Official store, located on the third floor of SM Mall of Asia. The store features an extensive selection of capsule toy vending machines offering everything from anime figures and realistic animal replicas to quirky accessories and food miniatures.

Every turn of the handle is a delightful throwback to the joy of finding unique surprises—made even better with today’s modern, high-quality designs. With tokens priced at just ₱65 each, gashapon is an affordable and exciting way to discover treasures for every taste and interest.

Exclusive Voltes V Charms: A Must-Have for Collectors

As a special treat, the store’s grand opening launched the exclusive Voltes V acrylic charms—rare collectibles available only in Japan and the Philippines. Celebrating the anime’s enduring legacy in Filipino pop culture, these limited-edition items have quickly become must-haves for fans and collectors alike.

A Grand Opening Full of Fun

The launch event was a celebration of creativity and community. GBO Japan, the creators behind the globally loved Gashapon™ concept, has long been celebrated for its innovative and high-quality capsule toys that have captured the imagination of collectors around the world.

GBO Japan representatives Keiichi Endo and Enomoto Terumasa joined GBO Philippines’ Howard Paw in welcoming shoppers to the store. Cosplayers and influencers like Charechii, Evil Overlord Gabo, Roxanne Kho, Zackt, and Sophia Mapua added flair to the festivities, posing for photos and mingling with guests.

Beloved comedian and renowned toy collector Michael V (Bitoy) and celebrated vlogger and collector Big Boy Cheng also made surprise appearances at the event. Known for their passion for collectibles, they showcased their love for gashapon by completing their Voltes V collections and sharing the experience with fans who were thrilled to join in the fun.

What Makes Gashapon™ Special?

The opening of the Philippines’ largest gashapon store at SM Mall of Asia adds another layer of excitement to the mall’s vibrant offerings. Whether you’re an avid collector or just starting your journey into capsule toys, this is the place to be.

Rediscover the joy of collecting and exploring at the Gashapon™ Bandai Official store today. For the latest updates on exclusive collections, follow @GBOPhilippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

There’s always more fun, more collectibles, and more surprises for you at SM!  Visit  www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media for updates and more information.

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ARISE Philippines, the UNDRR Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies, celebrated the contributions of its network members and partners in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and sustainability during a Recognition Ceremony held on December 2, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center Manila. The event, themed “United Towards Resilience: Recognizing ARISE Philippines Network Members and Partners in Advancing a Resilient and Sustainable Future,” brought together over 200 participants, including government officials, private sector leaders, and other stakeholders.

ARISE Philippines recognizes its partners and network members at SMX Convention Center Manila.

The ceremony commenced with opening remarks from Engr. Liza Silerio, co-chairperson of ARISE Philippines and SM Supermalls Vice President, who gave a call to action, “We have big goals ahead of us, and 2030 Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) is fast approaching. Let us continue our work, pushing forward together with the strong support of our government partners. Let us double down on our united efforts as a society ‘United towards Resilience.’”

Engr. Liza Silerio, co-chairperson of ARISE Philippines and SM Supermalls Vice President (second from left), congratulates Zuellig Family Foundation Chairman Ernesto Garilao (center), as from left: ARISE Philippines Global Board Member VAdm Alexander Pama, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Juan Miguel Cuna, and Department of National Defense (DND) Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro look on.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) was represented by Undersecretary Juan Miguel Cuna, standing in for Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, alongside Undersecretary Malu Erni and other DENR officials. The Department of National Defense (DND) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) were represented by Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro, from the OCD.

Key stakeholders gather to discuss innovative solutions for climate action during the field visit to the SM Resilience Center for the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024.

At the forefront of the event was Hans Sy, Chairperson of ARISE Philippines and a strong advocate for disaster resilience. His presence exemplified the private sector’s commitment to advancing DRR and sustainability through collaboration. Mr. Sy’s active engagement throughout the event highlighted ARISE Philippines’ leadership in promoting partnerships that embody the whole-of-society approach.

Recognizing excellence

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of plaques and certificates to ARISE network members and partners. These awards honored their leadership, dedication, and contributions to advancing resilience and sustainability. The honorees set new standards for private sector engagement, earning praise from local and international delegates for their impactful initiatives.

A celebration of collaboration 

The event was further enriched by powerful reflections and messages of unity delivered by key representatives from various sectors. Jeffrey Santos of the Mabalacat City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and Rodolfo Simeon of the Angeles CDRRMO spoke passionately about the importance of collaboration. PCol. Reynaldo Ogay Jr. of the Philippine National Police (PNP), FCSUPT. Renato Capuz of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and OCD Regional Director Amador Corpuz shared invaluable insights on strengthening disaster preparedness. 

Call to action

During the ceremony, VAdm Alexander Pama (Ret.), ARISE Philippines Global Board Member, reflected on the achievements of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024. He said, “We’re surging toward 2030 with disaster resilience as our goal, sustainability as its twin imperative, and a clear visioned determination to get our objectives done since resilience is not just something we talk about—it’s who we are.” He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in building resilient communities and called for sustained innovation to achieve the goals of the SFDRR.

Closing the event, Atty. Alexander Cabrera, Vice Chairperson of ARISE Philippines, delivered a message of gratitude, stating that resilience is a shared legacy that binds communities, sectors, and generations in the pursuit of a more sustainable future. 

Looking ahead

As ARISE Philippines continues to lead the charge, it reaffirms its dedication to promoting innovation, strengthening collaboration, and inspiring action in the pursuit of a safer future.

For more information, please visit www.arise.ph or follow us on Facebook at ARISE Philippines.