EVENTS

Blurb: Your Baguio Food Crawl Adventure Starts Here!

Baguio may be known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, but it’s also recognized as a food haven with a view. SM City Baguio explodes with a diverse selection of delectable flavors, blending the enticing tastes of homegrown specialties with the exquisite flavors of international cuisine. Here, you can indulge in the aromatic flavors as you experience the Panagbenga Festival in full bloom. Discover local favorites and global dining options that will become your favorites. Get ready to sip, savor, and sate your appetite from this curated food guide:

Vizcos’s Restaurant And Cake Shop

Location: Lower Ground, North Terrace, SM City Baguio

 

A trip to the North isn’t complete without a stop at the famed Vizco’s. The crowd-pleasing Strawberry Shortcake, undoubtedly the all-time favorite, is a must-try (or take home), as is the decadent Tres Leche. While they have several main dish options, the rich Baked Chicken Penne stands out as the most popular.

 

Greyhound Café

Location: Upper Ground, Sunset Terraces, SM City Baguio

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand without leaving Baguio! Greyhound Cafe, perched atop SM City Baguio’s Sunset Terraces, offers an authentic Thai culinary experience with a unique twist. Savor authentic flavors & their secret Baguio menu: Pineapple Fried Rice & Three Musketeers (taro, sweet potato, pumpkin). Ask for the “black book” to unlock hidden gems. Sip on Pink Journey (strawberry, apple, lime) or coffee Jello, all with a breathtaking panorama of Baguio City!

Highland Brew

Location: Sky Terrace, Level 3, SM City Baguio

Craving comfort after exploring Baguio? Highland Brew, a local favorite atop SM City Baguio, awaits. It offers stunning views and soul-warming brews like the Mt. Ulap Tiramisu. Unwind with calming lavender or refreshing hibiscus tea. It’s more than coffee, it’s an experience.

 

Nabe Japanese Izakaya and Hotpot

Location: Level 2, Sunset Terraces, SM CIty Baguio

Warm up after Baguio adventures!  Nabe Japanese Izakaya and Hotpot offers endless hotpot to share with loved ones. Choose from 16 soup base flavors, add premium meats, fresh vegetables, and scrumptious hotpot balls,  and umami sauces.

 

Wingzone

Location: Sky Terrace, Level 3, SM City Baguio

Sink your taste buds in the many flavors of Wingzone’s chicken dishes like Salted Egg, Thai Chili, Garlic Parm, Lemon Zinger, and Honey Q. Choose between the naked wings or boneless bites to go with your plate of piping hot rice, or have both so you can fully enjoy the Wingzone experience.

 

Botejyu

Location: Upper Ground, Sunset Terraces, SM City Baguio

Get ready for a flavor fiesta at Botejyu, your one-stop shop for Japanese delights!  Start your taste bud adventure with crispy Gyoza, then dive into the creamy goodness of California Rolls. Dig-in on a culinary journey with the Sakura Bento Box.  It’s the perfect fuel for your SM Baguio food crawl! 

 

Genki Sushi

Location: Upper Ground, Sunset Terraces, SM City Baguio

Photos : Genki Sushi FB page

 

Calling all sushi lovers in Baguio! Tantalize your taste buds Genki Sushi, from melt-in-your-mouth sashimi to imaginative maki rolls bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi pro or a curious newcomer, Genki Sushi has something to offer.

 

Yogorino

Location: Sky Terrace, Level 3, SM City Baguio

Sky-high indulgence! Ascend to SM Baguio’s Sky Terrace and treat yourself to Yogorino’s Italian frozen yogurt with panoramic views. Imagine creamy swirls, fresh fruit, and decadent toppings – a royal treat!  They even have Japanese crepes for a sweet twist. Don’t miss out!

Chili’s

Location: Level 2, Sunset Terraces, SM City Baguio

Stop by Chili’s for a taste of American comfort food during your SM Baguio food crawl! Try their refreshing Classic Chicken Salad or indulge in savory favorites like Bacon Ranch Beef Quesadilla and Loaded Boneless Chicken, all dip-ready!

 

Coffee and Pine

Location: Lower Ground, North Terrace, SM City Baguio

Photos : Coffee and Pine FB page

 

Escape the chill with Baguio’s warm brews! Coffee & Pine, a local favorite, offers signature coffee like the milky Atok Haze Latte. They also have refreshing alternatives such as the Northern Blossom Purple Latte and Blueberry Smoothies. Pair your drink with their decadent Mac & Cheese or Triple Decker for a satisfying food crawl stop.

H.O.Y. House of Yogurt

Location: Lower Ground, North Terrace, SM City Baguio                                     

 

Photos : H.O.Y. IG page

H.O.Y. House of Yolo Yogurt elevates yogurt in Baguio! They craft unique blends with local and highland ingredients, a must-try for yogurt lovers. Enjoy delectable Asian fare like hopia, cheesy pie, and more! Treat your gut and taste buds to a delightful experience.

 

Hill Station Bistro

Location: Level 2, Sunset Terraces, SM City Baguio

 

Photos : Hill Station FB page

 

Legendary Hill Station lands at SM City Baguio! Soak in stunning city views while savoring their cult-favorite dishes like Tortang Talong, Inihaw Liempo, and Chicken Tonkatsu, all served with veggies and red rice. Dive into all-day breakfast, homemade treats, and smoked deli delights like the Saigon Steak sandwich, a taste of Baguio tradition right here!

 

Mango Tree Cafe 

Location: Upper Ground, Sunset Terraces, SM City Baguio

 

Photos : Mango Tree Cafe FB page

 

Mango Tree Cafe brings its world-renowned menu to SM City Baguio, offering authentic Thai flavors crafted with high-quality ingredients. Enjoy a diverse selection of appetizers, salads, curries, and more, all prepared by talented Thai and Filipino chefs. Experience the warmth of Thai hospitality amidst a cozy ambiance, and discover the unique charm of regional dishes from Northern Thailand.

 

James Wright Café

Location: Lower Ground, North Terrace, SM City Baguio

 

 

 

Photos : James Wright Cafe FB page

 

Make James Wright Café a must-add to your food crawl! It’s the perfect spot to cap off your culinary adventure with a delicious and affordable drink like their Greek Frappe, Hot Mocha, or Cheesecake Latte. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it ideal for both unwinding and getting some work done.

 

Food, fun, and #AweSMFestivals – what’s not to love at SM City Baguio? Indulge in the #PanagbengaFeelsAtSM with our delectable offerings and follow us on social media for more foodie adventures and festive updates!

 

MANDALUYONG, Metro Manila – On its 9th run, Cyberzone officially launched its annual ‘Cyberzone Game Fest’ at SM Megamall, March 1, supporting the grassroots gaming community, together with its brand partners and special guests from the esports scene. 

 

Cyberzone has built gaming programs that have been recognized all over the country since 2016 on its first edition of Cyberzone Game Fest, and has continued to innovate tournament events and exhibitions in collaboration with global esports organizations and trusted brand partners. 

 

 

During the Mega Launch of the highly-anticipated gaming event, Cyberzone Game Fest was mainly presented by Predator Gaming in the Philippines, co-presented by realme and PC Express, and powered by PLDT Home – to collaboratively bring an immersive gaming experience for all. 

 

Transcending Boundaries, Solidifying Tech Leadership

“This year, Cyberzone is dedicated to transcending boundaries, aiming to further solidify our leadership as the country’s premier tech destination through Cyberzone Game Fest 2024; putting this evolving consumer segment at the forefront of esports”, says Mr. Joaquin L. San Agustin, Senior Vice President, Head Marketing of SM Supermalls, at his welcoming speech. 

 

The official opening of the 8-part series of Cyberzone Game Fest was also graced by the presence of Predator Ambassador, and Valorant gamer himself, Josh Cullen of SB19; alongside Team Secret Ambassador for the Philippines, Razzie Binx. 

Both Josh and Razzie led the Celebrity Match with invited Valorant gamers and fans on stage where they battled it out for fun and glory, bringing more thrills for their respective supporters.

 

Valorant Battle Arena: Best 4 Team Hailed for Glory

32 Teams of 5 all came together to clinch their own victory in the Online Qualifier held on Feb 28, Wednesday. For a seamless experience, participants were given a comprehensive platform with specially designed redeemable coupons on SM Malls Online app. 

At the first leg of Cyberzone Game Fest 2024, 16 victors have entered the Semi-Finals and 8 teams for the Finals. These two-part gaming tournaments were both held on Saturday, March 2 at SM Megamall, Event Center, Mega A. 

4 winning teams (Team Meow, Scatter, Vertex Lumina, and No Org) were hailed for glory as they took home a total prize pool of Php30,000.

Game Fest Kids: Roblox Tournament for the Young

Providing an immersive adventure for fun and creativity, Cyberzone Game Fest Kids was held, Mar 3. The first leg was closed off with a meet-and-greet opportunity among kids, supported by their parents and guardians, with Roblox Star Junell Dominic, aka ‘Juneru’. 

 

Juneru graced the stage and made the gaming experience for kids a memorable one as they navigate their way to SM Super Kids Zone on Roblox. 

 

The best 4 kid players were rewarded with a total prize pool of Php5,000 during the event run. The fun continues as the kids, along with other gaming aficionados, take the free plays and mini challenges into the next level. 

 

Catch Cyberzone Game Fest until April 2024

The gaming adventure continues at select SM Supermalls, during mall hours, every Friday to Sundays. Catch Cyberzone Game Fest on these dates

 

SM Southmall	March 8-10
SM North EDSA	March 15-17
SM City Baguio	March 22-24
SM City Clark	April 5-7
SM City Sto. Tomas	April 12-14
SM Seaside Cebu	April 19-21
SM City General Santos	April 26-28

Always make sure to #CheckCyberzone at an SM Mall near you for the latest and best #TechAssured gadgets! You can also locate competitive gadget deals through the SM Malls Online app. Keep informed regarding the latest tech updates and gaming events like Cyberzone Game Fest 2024 by following SM Cyberzone on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or by visiting our website at www.smcyberzone.com.

January 26-28, 2024 SMX Convention Center Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, Philippines

The Health & Wellness CONFEX is the only international B2B2C trade fair, sourcing platform, business matching, knowledge exchange, and brand showcase exclusively focused on sustainable wellness & lifestyle products and services with one objective of promoting the Philippines as a world-class destination for health and wellness. It was launched in partnership with the Philippines’ Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board in April 2018 at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, UAE, the biggest travel show in the Middle East, alongside a festivity for Filipinos dubbed as “Kabayan Fiestahan.”

The event was held in 2019 at the SMX Convention Center participated by key players in the wellness & medical tourism sectors and by various related industry stakeholders.

It is considered the pioneer and the only trade fair of its kind in the Philippines.

A series of webinars dealing with the virus and health & wellness, in general, took the place of this modest wellness tourism campaign during the pandemic, together with the television

program “Graceful Living” aired on ANC Channel and hosted by Cory Quirino, focusing on the hows and whys of healthy living.

The 2024 event will even be a greater version with the following segments:

• Conference and Exposition (ConfEx) on January 26-28, 2024 at SMX Manila

• On Travel & Wellness (OTW), a TV-Vlog Travel Show on GMA 7’s GTV

• Philippine Wellness Festival dubbed Masigabo in honor of Filipino Migrants

2024 Theme: “Go & Get Better:Regenerative Tourism Recharges All”

With its theme “Go & Get Better: Regenerative Tourism Recharges

All”, this event will raise awareness of the criticality of traveling with a mission to contribute to regenerative tourism. It urges everyone to be cognizant in having more purposeful intentions as they travel.

Embracing a contributive mindset to support regenerative tourism enables us to help communities & tourist sites recover and progress as we explore them.

“Go & Get Better Metaverse App” Powered by Ark of Dreams (AOD)

The Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 is supported by Ark of Dreams (AOD), a technology company that levels up brand user’s experiences with its interactive rewards platform, allowing the customers in engaging quests to redeem rewards from partnered brands.

By downloading the “Go & Get Better Metaverse App”, the visitors at the Media Launch and at the ConFex proper will be asked to explore the attractions or exhibitions, take part in the described quests, and earn points that entitle them to getting the rewards from the participating exhibitors.

“Go & Get Better”: The Deca-Wellness Tenets

The idea of taking responsibility not only for one’s own well-being but that of a community and nature may be challenging, if not down-right daunting.

For this reason, the Health & Wellness CONFEX with its “Go & Get Better” campaign has come-up with a lifestyle guide to wellness that is easy to understand and follow. Dubbed The Deca-Wellness Tenets, 10 key steps towards a better you and a better world are propounded for people to observe.

Why Support This Noble Initiative

 

The global wellness economy according to Global Wellness Institute was valued at US$4.9 trillion in 2019. It slowed down to

US$4.4 trillion in 2020 due to the widespread impact of COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, the industry posted US$5.6 trillion, and is predicted to grow by an average of 9.9% per year to reach nearly US$7.0 trillion in 2025.

 In 2020, the Philippines ranked #21 in the Global Wellness Economy Country Rankings, behind our ASEAN neighbor Indonesia (#19), but ahead of Thailand (#24), Malaysia (#26), Vietnam (#33), Singapore (#44), Myanmar (#71), Cambodia (#85), and Laos (#113).

This shows that the country has the potential to rank among the Top 10 Wellness Economy Markets soon with the strong support of the government and the collective efforts of the private stakeholders.

“On Travel & Wellness” (OTW) 

OTW is an innovative television travel show-vlog that takes the viewers on a fun, vibrant, and informative virtual trip to the country’s breathtaking tourist spots while highlighting the importance of well- being, maintaining health, and staying safe while leading an active life.

Apart from captivating the viewers with stunning views of the sun-kissed beaches, magnificent dive sites, towering mountains, and verdant woodlands that the Philippines is famous for, it also takes an in-depth look at the country’s diverse wellness practices – including traditional healing arts – through compelling anecdotes and discussions with experts.

 In short, OTW shows how travel can be a way to refresh, revive, and bring back balance and harmony to one’s life. This 30-minute, 13-episode show will be aired on GMA 7’s GTV.

The Philippine Wellness Festival: “Masigabo”

The Philippine Wellness Festival dubbed “Masigabo” is a celebration of life, love, togetherness, and family. Envisioned to be a campaign for Filipinos to start living a healthy lifestyle, it is a program educating the people on the basics of a healthy lifestyle, like eating the right food, getting enough sleep, and doing simple exercises, among others.

The expected result of this campaign is “wellness of community” where love abounds and people grow as one happy individual.

Forming part of the Health & Wellness CONFEX, “Masigabo” pays tribute to Filipino Migrants in  recognition of their sacrifices and contributions to strengthening our economy and securing the well-being of their families back home.

“Masigabo” is a Filipino word for loud and hearty that is often used in the phrase “masigabong palakpakan”, which means a loud and cheerful round of applause – and that is exactly what Filipino migrant workers, better known as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), deserve.

Aptly referred to as the Philippines’ new heroes, OFWs have for years been faithfully sending money to their families back home, which immensely contributed to the Philippine economy with their remittances reaching US$36.14 billion in 2022 alone.

Our vision is to reach out to as many Filipino migrants as we can beyond Philippine shores through a wellness tourism roadshow, a global campaign that seeks to promote the country as a world-class health and wellness center. With so many Filipinos living, residing, or working abroad, “Masigabo” seeks to encourage our Filipino migrants to become our country’s active tourism ambassadors to help speed up realizing our goal.

A pioneering event promoting the Philippines as a world-class health and wellness destination
will have a rerun on January 26-28, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia
Complex in Pasay City.

Dubbed the Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024, the three-day event will gather under one roof
the stakeholders of the multi trillion-dollar health and wellness industry – from award-winning
wellness resorts to globally accredited hospitals that provide medical tourism packages, all the
way to organic farms and specialty shops that offer a wide array of innovative, sustainable and
eco-friendly health and wellness products and services.

With the theme “Go &Get Better,” the event highlights the promotion of regenerative tourism,
which, in essence, is a strong call for making the places we visit better than we found them and
pursuing economic growth while managing the social and environmental impacts of our visit.
The event is, in fact, the centerpiece of a global multi-media campaign that aims to showcase
the country’s many health and wellness destinations and will feature an exhibit, a conference,
business matching sessions, and various experiential activities. It is considered the the only
trade fair in the Philippines promoting health and wellness tourism, products, and services.

The ConFex will also launch its innovative television travel show-vlog that will allow the viewers
to explore the fascinating world of health and wellness amid the breathtaking natural wonders of
the Philippines. Called OTW, the acronym for “On Travel & Wellness,” it will take viewers on a
virtual trip to the country’s many tourist spots while highlighting, at the same time, the
importance of wellbeing, of keeping healthy and safe while leading an active lifestyle.

The 13-episode show will provide stunning views of the sun-kissed beaches, magnificent dive sites,
towering mountains and verdant woodlands that the Philippines is famous for, and it will also
provide an in-depth look at the country’s diverse wellness practices – including traditional
healing arts – through compelling anecdotes and discussions with regional experts. OTW will air
on GMA 7’s GTV.

On its third day, the event will likewise hold a Wellness Festival called Masigabo with various
programs and activities that pay tribute to the industry and sacrifices of the migrant workers,
better known as overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). On hand activities are designed to make
them feel better, relaxed and loved. Health and wellness experts will also deliver talks about
financial health, physical wellness, beauty, sustainability, environmental protection, government
regulations, and more.

Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 is co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DOT), in
partnership with the Department of Health DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI),
Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority
(TIEZA), Duty Free Philippines (DFP), and Tourism Promotions Board (TPB).
The event is likewise supported by the following:

Sponsors: Lifecore Bio Integrative Inc., Dean and Deluca Philippines, The Zen Institute,
Enjoy Health, Aba Padres Hydroponics, Conrad Manila;
Event Partners: Philip Dizon, Ark of Dreams, Market Social, Tourism Congress of the
Philippines, Wellness Tourism Association of the Philippines, Philippine Green Building
Initiative, SMX Convention Center, IQ Capture Printing Corporation, and DigitalCircles;
Media Partners: GMA Network, ABS-CBN Corporation, GMA 7 GTV, Aliw Channel 23,
Business Mirror, and DOOH PH

The Health & Wellness CONFEX is spearheaded by a team of seasoned event organizers,
wellness advocates, travel & tours agencies, and marketing & communication professionals, as
headed by the country’s wellness guru, Cory Quirino, its Executive Director.

For any inquiries or to participate at Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024, you can reach its
Secretariat by email at secretariat@wellnessconfex.com or by phone at 09277227670
(attention: Sarah Timonera).

INSPI Philippines is thrilled to introduce its latest collection, a stunning ensemble of
fashionable pieces that are sure to captivate fashion enthusiasts and creators nationwide. Inspi
launched its newest collection with the event entitled: Inspi Creators Night last November 17,
2023 through a get-together party and runway. The event is all about celebrating individualism,
expressionism, and the influential voices that help drive it forward.
Inspi’s influencers, creators, and affiliates play a crucial role in showcasing the latest
trends and have brought to life the Inspi masterpieces on the runway. There are different
stylings from casual chic, streetwear aura, and to a high-fashion look, definitely, each one of
them has styled up with their own personality. These influencers, creators, and affiliates made
Inspi their go-to fashion brand whenever and wherever they are. They have been the voices of
Inspi, which in turn have helped them find great opportunities through its products.
Making Inspi the go-to fashion brand, the new collection has set another record by
showing a perfect blend of creativity, innovation, and high-quality craftsmanship. Inspi product
development team has poured their expertise into creating these exquisite clothing that embody
the latest trends and showcase its creators’ unique style. With a diverse range of designs and
colors, there is something more exciting for everyone in this new collection. Whether you are
seeking a sophisticated look for a special occasion or a casual yet chic outfit for everyday wear,
Inspi's new collection has it all.
It is perfect for individuals who are looking to make a bold statement, promote a specific
mood, or simply showcase their fashion creativity. From eye-catching graphics to specific
statements, these wearable canvases allow you to express your style and captivate attention
wherever you go. Inspi have really become a must-have item in everyone’s wardrobe and have
explored endless possibilities to offer.
Truly, the creative Inspi canvases show freedom of self-expression and allow each and
every individual to showcase their passions, interests, and creativity. These pieces will make
you stand out giving you the freedom to make a statement and display your unique identity to
the world. Inspi Philippines is excited to bring these extraordinary pieces to its valued customers
and cannot wait to see the incredible fashion statements they will make with the Creators
collection.

Visit Inspi Philippines social media pages to see the new collection:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inspi.ph
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspi_ph
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inspiph

 

Thirty-one student ambassadors from 13 Metro Manila high schools gathered in an eco-camp last November 24 to 26 organized by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) and WWF-Philippines (WWF-PH). Participating schools include Assumption College, FEU Manila High School, La Salle Greenhills, National University of Nazareth, Las Pinas Science High School, Manila Science High School, Muntinlupa Science High School, School, Paranaque Science High School, PAREF Southridge, Pasay Science High School, Pasig Science High School, Philippine Science High School, and Quezon City Science High School.

Held at the Pico De Loro Beach and Country Club, the three-day eco camp marks the second leg of YOUth are the Future–a joint environmental leadership program by SM Prime and WWF-PH aiming to empower environmental stewards among the youth sector. By enhancing their understanding of biodiversity conservation and sustainability, the program aims to instill a strong sense of responsibility and commitment towards the protection of the environment.

The immersive weekend kicked off with a fireside chat on climate action where leaders Jessica Sy, Assistant Vice President of SM Development Corporation, WWF-PH Executive Director Katherine Custodio, and marine biologist and WWF-Philippines National Youth Council member Romina Lim engaged in a discussion on facing the climate crisis, inspiring the attendees to take proactive steps towards preserving our planet and promoting the advocacy towards a sustainable future.

“Climate change affects our daily lives and the youth have the most at stake being the ones who will face greater and greater impacts in the years to come. It is important that our young people find and use their voices, and be given opportunities such as the YOUth are the future program, to learn more about what needs to be done, and to discover where those intersect with their own individual talents and passions. It was also a strategic choice to focus the program on high school students, who would need to think about what further studies or careers they might pursue. I hope they understand that there is space for environmental advocacy whatever career or degree they choose.”, shared Custodio.

Campers attended learning sessions that tackled the most pressing environmental conservation and sustainability issues, specifically on water, energy, and biodiversity. Antoinette Taus, UN Goodwill Ambassador and founder of Project CORA, also graced the camp to share insights on waste management.

Apart from the talks, the campers immersed themselves in nature by hiking Pico De Loro’s Santelmo Eco-Trail and taking a guided walking tour of its vast mangrove forests.

As a symbol of their commitment towards the environment, the student ambassadors produced social media videos sharing their vision for the future and a call to action for their fellow youth. They also created a storybook based on lessons from their experiences at the camp. Xia Vigor, WWF-Philippines ambassador, gave tips on how the students can create good videos and share impactful messages.

implanted with that same seed that brought us all here together. We cannot lose hope,” shared Vigor in a message delivered to encourage her fellow youth to do their part for nature.

The camp concluded with a closing keynote by SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) President and sustainability champion Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., where campers were given a chance to ask questions and tips on sustainability and environmental leadership.

“Study, ideate, plan, and experiment. Use your creativity and experiment some more until you find the right solutions. You might fail, you might need to start from scratch again, but the most important thing you have to remember is to learn from your mistakes and try again. That, my young participants, is the only way for us to move forward to creating a better world”, shared Sy.

As part of its third and final leg, the YOUth are the Future program will culminate on January 2024 through a series of mall and school tours throughout Metro Manila to further boost youth engagement and student ambassador recruitment.

There is an undeniable surge in the number of young individuals dedicated to facing the current challenges that will impact the future. Their unwavering commitment is a powerful reminder that it is within our collective power to create lasting change and reimagine a sustainable future for all. Through programs like YOUth are the Future, SM Prime and WWF-PH hope to empower the youth further to become powerful agents of change, inspiring others to #ChangeTheEnding for the planet.

 

 

 

 

 

‘Make It Iconic’ is the global slogan being used by France this year to celebrate the daring French spirit, reaffirming how this spirit is made concrete in the arenas of tourism, gastronomy, culture, education, science, the economy, and infrastructure through innovation and strategic partnerships across different global concerns and initiatives. Here in the Philippines, we witnessed a stirring example of how such a partnership can resonate in a touching, emotional, and socially impactful manner when the Embassy of France, SM Supermalls, and the French Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) operating in the Philippines, Cameleon Association, banded together for a special charity dinner. 

Held at the Lanson Place, Mall of Asia, the dinner had several elements to highlight and recognize, but it was wonderful to note that the strongest spotlight of the night was reserved for Cameleon and its 26-year old struggle to develop a holistic approach to act on the causes of sexual violence and incest towards Filipino children and teenagers. Protected by a culture of silence and how it’s considered a taboo subject matter, Laurence Ligier, the founder of Cameleon, disclosed how 1 in 5 children below 18 has experienced sexual violence during their upbringing – and this alarming data applies to France, as it does here in the Philippines. 

That this evening was happening on the second day of the ongoing 26th French Film Festival at the SM Cinema of Mall of Asia and Megamall until December 3, 2023, was so appropriate. Ambassador of France to the Philippines, Her Excellency Marie Fontanel, mentioned how one of the films being screened during the festival, the documentary “Un Silence Si Bruyant” (A Resounding Silence), tackles this very subject of incest in the context of contemporary French society. Directed by French actress Emmanuelle Béart and Anastasia Mikova, Béart had flown to the Philippines to present her film and was the special guest of the night. The fact that this was happening on the weekend when we celebrated the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children was just one more element of serendipity, and how the stars had aligned to make this such a momentous occasion.

The dinner also served as the opportunity to continue a tradition that commenced last year during the 75th anniversary of Philippine-French Diplomatic Relations – and this was to honor Filipinos who had spent years in French education and had subsequently excelled in their respective fields. The list of the 2023 awardees was a sterling example of the diversity and fruitfulness of this kind of education and cross-cultural exposure. There was filmmaker and film historian Nick Deocampo of the University of the Philippines (UP) Film Institute, internationally recognized Balai Palma chef Aaron Isip, Design Center of the Philippines Executive Director Rhea Matute, and SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan. 

Entertaining video clips of the four awardees were presented, and it was lovely to watch Steven Tan recount how he pursued his Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) at the Ecole Superieure de Commerce de Paris, and that his love for French cinema was nurtured back then, making the current partnership between SM Cinema and the Embassy of France’s French Film Festival so meaningful to him. 

Isip is an alumnus of the renowned Le Cordon Bleu. Deocampo obtained a certificate of film from the Atelier du Formation Au Cinema Documentaire, and Matute obtained a master’s degree in International Brand Luxury Management at École Supérieure des Sciences Economiques et Commerciales (ESSEC) in Paris. 

Hosted by French-Filipina Anne Gauthier and attended by a guest list led by Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay and SM Hotels and Conventions President Elizabeth Sy, the most meaningful points of the evening were undoubtedly the speech of Cameleon founder Ligier and her introducing the set piece of drama and movement that followed, as performed by the young women, men, and children who form part of the Cameleon population in Iloilo. Empowered by Cameleon and striving to right their lives, the performance was an incendiary reminder of what they had undergone, and a blazing testament to how they were not going to let the culture of silence get the better of them. 

Béart interacted with the Cameleon troupe after their performance and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house, as the French actress went into long hugs with the young girls and children, promising them that she would continue the struggle to break this culture of silence. Cameleon founder Ligier did not mince her words when observing how ironic it is that the bulk of the financial support she gets for Cameleon’s operation here in the Philippines still comes from French donors. She fervently hoped that their participation in the evening would help build up awareness and lead to more support for their noble, uphill struggle of a cause. To cap the evening, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan led the spirit of giving by personally committing his support to Cameleon. 

Cameleon Association Inc. can be followed on social media and they welcome donations. Cameleon is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a non-stock, non-profit, and is accredited by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). It is also a Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PNCC)-accredited donee institution.

 

 

Get ready to elevate your fun and dive into an action-packed experience at the newest sports destination in SM Mall of Asia (MOA)—SM Game Park!

Prepare for an exciting recreational and active lifestyle facility, launching you into a sporty era with an electrifying lineup of games and activities. SM Game Park MOA is the brand’s flagship branch, designed by the award-winning Hong Kong-based company, Alexander Wong Architects. It marks the fourth branch in the country, following SM Southmall, SM City Fairview, and SM Cagayan de Oro (CDO) Downtown.

Situated on the 3rd Level of the South Entertainment Mall of SM Mall of Asia, SM Game Park MOA spans 1,947 sqm of everything fun, offering top-notch amusements and the best amenities for everyone of all ages.

At SM Game Park MOA, let the good times roll at its massive 16-lane regular bowling area. Plus, have an unforgettable and exclusive experience with your social circles at the new four-lane private bowling, equipped with state-of-the-art Augmented Reality (AR) technology—a first in the country.

Gather the hoop crew and shoot your shots at the mini indoor basketball court, accommodating a team of 3×3 players. For those exploring other sports, test your skill with a bow and arrow at the archery zone by PANA.

Master the art of billiards at any of the six billiard tables available. Serve up intense rallies at the table tennis area, or challenge a friend to a game of basketball hoops or E-darts at the arcade games corner.

There’s no shortage of heart-pumping thrills at SM Game Park MOA. Sing, dance, and play your hearts out to your favorite songs and games inside the Game Room. You can now enjoy karaoke, and soon there will be additions like board games, dance consoles, and various other recreations, offering a multitude of options for passing the time. If you need to wind down or simply chill with the squad after a fun day, grab some delicious grub and refreshing drinks from the Sports Bar by Taters.

Exciting promos await customers, so make sure to check out the official social media accounts of SM Game Park on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more information.