FEATURES

YouTube has announced the official launch of YouTube Premium Lite in the Philippines, offering Filipinos a new, more affordable way to enjoy most videos on YouTube ad-free for as low as P109 per month.

This expansion comes as YouTube continues to innovate its subscription offerings following the success of YouTube Music and Premium, which recently surpassed 125 million subscribers globally.

Premium Lite is designed for viewers who primarily seek an ad-free experience across gaming, comedy, cooking, learning, and more. The new membership works across devices, including phone, laptop, and TV. However, due to it being a Lite plan, while it offers ad-free viewing for most videos, commercials may still appear on music content and Shorts, and when users search or browse.

The introduction of YouTube Premium Lite in the Philippines emphasizes YouTube’s commitment to offering flexible options that cater to diverse viewer preferences, allowing users to enjoy their favorite content from a wide roster of creators and genres, with fewer interruptions. In addition to providing more viewers with an ad-free viewing experience, the launch of YouTube Premium Lite also continues to create additional revenue opportunities for creators and partners.

Enjoy ad-free viewing on YouTube by getting YouTube Premium Lite today.

SM Foundation’s new four-classroom building provides Bayanan II Elementary School’s Grades 5 and 6 students with learning spaces that meet modern educational needs.

The SM Group, through SM Prime and SM Foundation, has turned over a newly built two-story, four-classroom school building to Calapan, Oriental Mindoro’s Bayanan II Elementary School.

Constructed under the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Adopt-A-School Program, the new facility addresses the need for additional classrooms.

The 112^th SM school building was designed with both functionality and inclusivity in mind. Each classroom is equipped with durable wood-steel armchairs, including seats for left-handed learners, as well as panoramic whiteboards to improve visibility. Wall fans enhance ventilation, while each room has its own flush toilet and wash basin for added convenience and hygiene.

Beyond classrooms, the structure features a faculty room, prayer room, clinic, and storage areas, ensuring that both students and teachers benefit from the improved learning environment. A centralized handwashing station with 10 faucets and an overhead water tank was also installed to encourage good hygiene practices.

Safety and accessibility are among the priorities of the new Calapan SM School Building, which includes a ground-floor clinic for easy access.

Safety and accessibility were among the top priorities in the construction. The building is equipped with emergency lighting on staircases, a fire alarm system, and dedicated facilities for persons with disabilities, including an accessible restroom and a wheelchair ramp.

In partnership with Ace Hardware, the school is set to receive a DigiHub equipped with a router, smart TV, 20 desktop computers with earphones and microphones, 10 computer tables, and 20 chairs. The said hub is aimed at boosting digital literacy and supporting students’ access to modern learning tools.

SM Foundation shares that the donation is part of its mission to spread social good by supporting public education and uplifting communities across the country.

Designed with both functionality and inclusivity in mind, each classroom is equipped with durable wood-steel armchairs, including seats for left-handed learners.

Each classroom of the 112^th SM School Building is equipped with four wall fans, panoramic whiteboards for better visibility, and dedicated chairs and tables for teachers.

Loving generative AI and the convenience it brings to your daily life? Then this is good news for you: Google is expanding its newest plan, Google AI Plus, to 40 more countries including the Philippines. Google AI Plus has a host of added perks and benefits that provide enhanced access to its most advanced AI tools and services.

This move is designed to empower more people in emerging markets to do more with Google’s powerful AI tools. With the way many lives and careers have been changed by the potential and possibilities unlocked by Google’s AI, you can now get the absolute best of it for a single, affordable price.

With a Google AI Plus subscription, you get:

• Expanded AI access:Enjoy higher limits for the “Nano Banana” image generation and editing model within the Gemini app. You also receive more access to Google’s video generation model, Veo 3 Fast, which can be used directly in the Gemini app and integrated with cutting-edge AI filmmaking tools like Whisk and Flow.
• AI built into Google Workspace:Gemini is seamlessly integrated into the apps you use every day, including Gmail, Docs, and Sheets, to help you work smarter and faster.
• More storage:A generous 200 GB of storage is included to save your photos, documents, and other files across Google Photos, Google Drive, and Gmail.
• Share with family:All of these benefits can be shared with up to five other family members.

Google AI Plus is here to help you get more out of your day, whether you’re working on a school project, building a creative hobby, or simply getting organized. Imagine what you could accomplish and create with powerful AI tools.

To learn more about Google AI Plus, visit https://one.google.com/about/google-ai-plans/.

Culinary Creations by Rising Negrense Chefs – Two Negrense talents wowed the crowd and stole the spotlight during the media launch of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair last Aug 26, 2025—and their names are worth remembering. Their gastronomic menu was just a taste of what’s possible: innovative, world-class, and proudly Negrense!

From Filipino favorites to world-class eats, all in one festival

This September, SM Supermalls invites foodies nationwide to embark on a delicious culinary journey at SM Food Fest 2025!

It’s a month-long celebration of food, feasts, and fun that delights everyone with a gastronomic experience of flavors. From Filipino comfort food to Mediterranean feasts, Japanese classics, Italian staples, and Mexican bites, SM Food Fest brings together the best of the best under one roof. And what better way to celebrate than by diving into each restaurant’s crowd-favorite dishes?

Celebrate life the Mediterranean way!

The famous Meat Platter Lamb from Souv! by Cyma is perfect for sharing, while the hummus and pita are sure to tickle your tastebuds.

This is how Greece celebrates: with food, with family, and with flavor. At Souv! by Cyma, indulge in their slow-roasted Meat Platter Lamb that’s grilled to perfection. For lighter bites, the hummus and cheese saganaki, featuring crispy fried mizithra cheese with fig jam and honey, are sure to satisfy.

Oh My Greek Tavern’s Gyro Rice and Spanakopita are true Mediterranean delights. 

Over at Oh My Greek Tavern, treat yourself to their Pork or Beef Gyro Rice and savor every delicious bite. For something flaky and hearty, the Spanakopita—a Greek classic filled with spinach and feta, wrapped in golden pastry—brings savory flavors and comfort to every plate.

Indulge in Italian flavors

Amici’s Spaghetti White Vongole E Gamberetti and Frutti di Mare Pizza are oozing with seafood goodness.

A stop at Amici means comfort food made for sharing. Their Spaghetti White Vongole E Gamberetti remains a crowd favorite, along with Frutti di Mare Pizza and the hearty Spinach Artichoke Dip.

Italianni’s Chicken Cacciatore and Eggplant Parmigiana are timeless Italian classics.

At Italianni’s, it’s all about the classics that keep diners coming back: Seafood Cioppino, Eggplant Parmigiana, Chicken Cacciatore, and Chicken Florentine. Pair these with their famous Sicilian Salad for a hearty Italian spread that feels like home.

Take pride in Filipino flavors

Mesa’s iconic Crispchon and Tinapa Rolls are crispy, flavorful, and unforgettable.

Mesa Filipino Moderne takes pride in reinventing traditional dishes. Their iconic Crispchon, a deep-fried piglet wrapped in malunggay crepe with cucumber, leeks, and wansoy, steals the show with its succulent meat and crispy skin. It is made more delectable by their store-made dips, making it the star of the table. Other crowd-pleasers that are creative twists on Filipino heritage flavors include Tinapa Rolls, Binagoongang Baboy ni Kaka, and Pomelo Salad.

Manam’s famous Sinigang na Beef Short Rib and Watermelon is a modern twist on a Pinoy favorite, and their Crispy Sisig is a must!

Meanwhile, Manam continues to win hearts with its beloved Sinigang na Beef Short Rib & Watermelon, a refreshing and hearty take on the classic sour stew. Other bestsellers like Sizzling Corned Beef Belly Kansi, House Crispy Sisig, and Crispy Pancit Palabok prove why it’s a go-to for groups craving modern Filipino comfort food.

Say itadakimasu and dive into an authentic Japanese feast

Yayoi’s Chicken Namban Teishoku and  Nagoya-style Hitsumabushi Teishoku are sets that are loved for their flavor and balance.

For Japanese food lovers, Yayoi serves hearty teishoku sets that are both filling and flavorful. Their bestselling Chicken Namban Teishoku, with crispy fried chicken topped with tartar sauce, is a must-try. Equally popular are the Teriyaki Salmon Teishoku with stir-fried vegetables, and the Nagoya-style Hitsumabushi Teishoku with grilled eel over rice, served with a warm dashi broth.

Ramen Nagi’s rich and flavorful Butao King ramen and Black King ramen are all-time bestsellers.

On the other hand, ramen fans know there’s no better place than Ramen Nagi. Its signature bowls—the Butao King (the original tonkotsu favorite), the fiery Red King, and the bold Black King—are cult favorites. Limited-edition flavors also make every visit an exciting experience.

Spice up your weekends with smoky, savory Mexican delights

Gringo’s Smokehouse Barbecue Ribs and Char-grilled Chicken serve fall-off-the-bone goodness with every bite.

For bold, smoky flavors, Gringo never disappoints. The tender and meaty Smokehouse Barbecue Ribs come served with a side of nachos for the perfect bite. And of course, there’s Gringo’s Char-grilled Chicken with its flavor that’s off the charts and tenderness that melts in your mouth.

Chili’s Fajita Trio and Tostada Chips & Salsa are a Tex-Mex  twist on Mexican classics.

Chili’s, a Tex-Mex icon, offers a fun twist with its playful menu. Standout items include the Fajita Trio, Tacos, and the iconic Tostada Chips & Salsa.

It’s a feast for every craving!

Whether you’re craving a Greek feast, Italian pasta, Filipino comfort food, Japanese ramen, or Mexican street eats, SM Food Fest has something for every palate. This September, gather your family and friends, explore a world of flavors, and celebrate food that brings people together—only at SM Supermalls.

For more details, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in celebration of Philippine Creative Industries Month, successfully concluded the first-ever Malikhaing Pinoy Expo 2025, a landmark festival of artistry, culture, and innovation held last September 3–7 at the SMX Convention Center Aura, SM Aura Premier.

Showcasing Filipino Excellence

The creative industries are important for us because this is really where we excel… I really believe that we must send our aces out there.”” said Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque

Bringing together thousands of creative professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and culture enthusiasts, the expo served as a vibrant platform to showcase the limitless talent of Filipino creatives across diverse sectors. From audiovisual media and digital interactive content, to design, publishing, performing arts, and traditional cultural expressions, the expo highlighted the breadth and depth of the country’s creative industries.

Meanwhile, DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza D. Bautista highlighted the transformative role of digital storytelling in today’s creative landscape: “Digital storytelling is a powerful tool in shaping meaningful connections and driving positive change.”

SMX Aura as a Creative Hub

The Malikhaing Pinoy Expo 2025 at SMX Aura marked a historic first for the country’s creative industries, proving that the Philippines is not only rich in talent but also ready to take its place as a global creative powerhouse—powered by Filipino artistry, innovation, and collaboration.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. SM also champions Filipino entrepreneurship, empowering MSMEs—driving local growth, showcasing homegrown talent, and fueling the Filipino spirit of enterprise. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today!

Built on a family’s passion and collection of heirloom seafood recipes, Bugsay Seafood Restaurant has grown from humble beginnings into one of Cagayan de Oro’s most loved dining spots. With its focus on fresh catch, authentic flavors, and unique takes on Filipino seafood, Bugsay continues to charm locals and visitors alike. Its success has paved the way for expansion, including a home at the 3rd level of SM CDO Downtown, where diners can experience an unforgettable seafood feast.

One of Bugsay’s signatures is its many versions of Kinilaw, whether made with fresh fish or the more adventurous sea urchin (tuyom), highlighting Mindanao’s rich culinary tradition. Other specialties include the Adobong Saang (spider shell in savory adobo sauce), Adobong Pusit with Ata (squid cooked with its ink for a deep umami flavor), and the Paksiw na Pompano, simmered in vinegar and spices until perfectly tender. For something hearty, the Bugsay Bilao offers a generous spread of shrimp, mussels, squid, and scallops in a Cajun-style sauce, while Letty’s Crab, cooked in rich crab fat sauce, is a true indulgence best shared with family and friends.

Beyond seafood, Bugsay also serves Filipino favorites like Chicken BBQ, while lighter options such as Seaweed Salad bring a refreshing balance to the table. To round out the experience, diners can enjoy modern twists like Pompano with Bruschetta Sauce or the Filipino-inspired Bugsay Bouillabaisse, blending fresh local seafood into a comforting broth.

With every dish, Bugsay Seafood Restaurant delivers not just food, but a true taste of the sea—flavors that are fresh, soulful, and worth coming back for.

Barkadahan Grill: Where Every Meal Feels Like a Celebration

At Barkadahan Grill, good food and good times always come together. Known for its lively atmosphere and generous servings, it has become a go-to spot for friends and families who love to bond over Filipino favorites and grilled specialties. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a big celebration, Barkadahan Grill serves dishes that satisfy both the appetite and the heart.

For groups, the restaurant offers its signature Barkadahan Feasts—carefully curated sets made for sharing. The Barkadahan Feast 2 is a crowd-pleaser, featuring Chicken BBQ, Lechon Kawali, Lumpia Shanghai, and Lomi, served with a platter of rice, a refreshing pitcher of iced tea, and Buko Pandan Solo for dessert—perfect for five hungry diners. Seafood lovers, on the other hand, can dive into the Barkadahan Feast 4, also known as the Seafood Spread. This hearty selection includes Tinolang Blue Marlin, Grilled Tuna Belly, Calamares, Shrimp Pinakbet, and Pancit Canton, paired with rice, iced tea, and Buko Pandan Solo.

With its flavorful dishes, festive sharing platters, and warm, inviting atmosphere, Barkadahan Grill is the perfect spot to celebrate life’s simple joys with friends and family. Come and experience it for yourself on the 5th level of SM CDO Downtown

Bigby’s Café: A Taste of Adventure Since 1998

Bigby’s Café first opened its doors in Cagayan de Oro on December 8, 1998, introducing a unique dining concept that combines the sophistication of fine dining with the relaxed vibe of fast-casual restaurants. Its founders envisioned a place where guests could embark on a flavorful adventure around the world—an idea reflected in its diverse menu, warm interiors, and excellent service. Over the years, Bigby’s has grown into a dining institution, beloved by families, friends, and food lovers alike.

The menu is a culinary journey in itself, offering both international flavors and hearty comfort food. Best-sellers include the Nachos, a towering stack of crispy corn chips layered with cheese sauce, Mexican beef, beans, and fresh salsa; and the Belly Buster, the ultimate carnivore’s feast featuring barbecued baby back ribs, Rodeo chops, smoky pork belly, and Mojo Chicken Q, served with Cuban rice, vegetables, and crispy onion rings. Seafood lovers can enjoy the Fisherman, a sampler of tortilla-crusted fish fillet, calamari rings, and sautéed shrimp aligue with garlic rice.

For those who crave ribs, the Rack a Bye delivers premium smoky barbecue goodness, while pizza fans will love the Crispidilla Supreme Meat Overload, a thin-crust tortilla-based pizza loaded with sausage, pepperoni, ham, mushrooms, and bell peppers. To end on a sweet note, diners can indulge in the Cheesecake Trio, topped with blueberries, strawberries, cookies, and caramel, or the Fudgie, a warm brownie topped with vanilla ice cream.

With its adventurous spirit, generous servings, and welcoming atmosphere, Bigby’s Café remains a must-visit destination for great food and lasting memories. Savor unforgettable flavors—visit their restaurants at SM City CDO Uptown and SM CDO Downtown today!

Boy Zugba: Proudly Kagay-anon Flavors with a Twist

Boy Zugba has become a household name in Cagayan de Oro for its bold, playful, and proudly local take on Filipino comfort food. Known as the “Kagay-anon Kusina,” the restaurant celebrates homegrown flavors while reimagining them with creative twists that make every dish exciting and uniquely Mindanaoan.

A must-try is the Sinuglaw de Cagayan, a signature dish that perfectly balances smoky grilled pork belly with fresh tuna cured in tangy vinegar. What sets it apart is the use of tabon-tabon, a tropical fruit indigenous to Mindanao, which smoothens the fish’s flavor and adds a distinctive sour-sweet depth.

For a fun sharing plate, there’s the Sospa, Boy Zugba’s playful version of nachos. Instead of corn chips, it uses kiping/burikit—crispy cassava chips—loaded with sisig, lettuce, and a refreshing native salsa made from homemade coconut vinegar atchara. It’s a true showcase of Filipino ingenuity.

To end the meal on a sweet note, the Buko Halo offers a refreshing twist on the classic halo-halo. Made with pure coconut juice shaved ice and crowned with a decadent yema tower inspired by Cagayan de Oro’s famous pastel, it’s a dessert that’s both nostalgic and proudly local.

Boy Zugba continues to champion the vibrant flavors of Cagayan de Oro and Mindanao—bringing people together over food that feels both familiar and excitingly new. Craving something delicious? Come and explore the must-try restaurant at SM City CDO Uptown!

Raki Yata brings the true taste of Japan closer to home with its flavorful dishes and carefully crafted ramen bowls. Known for its dedication to authenticity, Raki Yata takes pride in using premium ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Start your meal with crowd favorites like the Cheesy Gyoza—golden, crispy pork dumplings filled with savory goodness and melting cheese—or the Aburi Cheese Salmon, perfectly seared salmon with a rich cheese glaze, yuzu drizzle, and bonito flakes for a smoky, tangy bite.

The highlight of Raki Yata is its signature ramen. The Tonkotsu Miso – Yata King features a broth simmered for 12 hours from pork bones, seasoned with artisanal shoyu and natural dashi, and paired with house-made noodles. Topped with charsiu pork, miso pork, marinated soft-boiled egg, corn, wood ear mushrooms, spring onions, and nori, this dish is a comforting bowl of authentic Japanese umami.

For those craving a little spice and depth, the Tan Tan Men – Yata King delivers a flavorful kick with miso beef, marinated egg, spring onion, corn kernels, toasted sesame, and fresh cabbage—making every slurp a rich, satisfying experience.

At Raki Yata, every dish is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Japan’s culinary artistry, crafted to be savored and shared. Satisfy your cravings with flavors you’ll love at Raki Yata, located at the ground level of SM City CDO Uptown, North Wing and the second level of SM CDO Downtown!

Backyard Burger CDO: Big Bites, Bold Flavors

When it comes to indulgent comfort food, Backyard Burger CDO in SM CDO Downtown knows how to deliver. Famous for its loaded burgers and crowd-pleasing snacks, this local favorite is the go-to spot for barkadas and families who love to feast together.

Their menu is packed with irresistible choices—like the hefty Texan Burger and the Double Original, both stacked high with flavor. For those who can’t get enough chicken, Backyard serves up Buffalo Wings in 12-piece platters, crispy Chicken Fingers, and their signature Hickory Popper Fries for that smoky, savory kick.

Not just about burgers, they also offer fun twists like the Smashed Burger Taco and Poppers Taco, blending street-style eats with Backyard’s bold flair. Health-conscious diners can still join in with the refreshing Poppers Salad or a hearty Burger Salad. And of course, no visit is complete without their flavored French Fries—a perfect side for any meal.

At Backyard Burger CDO, every bite feels like comfort food done right—generous, flavorful, and made for sharing. Whether you’re craving burgers, wings, tacos, or fries, Backyard brings the flavors that keep Kagay-anons coming back for more.

Oh Waffles and Crepes: Sweet Happiness in Every Bite

Craving something sweet and satisfying? Oh Waffles, located at the North Wing of SM City CDO Uptown, is the perfect stop for a quick treat or a fun bonding snack with family and friends. Known for its freshly made waffles that are golden, fluffy, and delightfully crisp, Oh Waffles offers a variety of flavors and fillings to suit every craving—from classic chocolate and strawberry to creamy, indulgent combinations.

More than just a snack, each waffle is crafted to bring comfort and joy, whether enjoyed on the go or shared with loved ones. With its playful menu and affordable prices, Oh Waffles has become a favorite among Kagay-anons looking for a sweet fix while shopping or hanging out at the mall.

So the next time you’re at SM City CDO Uptown, don’t miss the chance to treat yourself—because at Oh Waffles, happiness is always served warm.

Sip, Savor, Celebrate: Coffee Higala at SM CDO Downtown

This Higalaay season, SM CDO Downtown is brewing up a special treat for coffee lovers with Coffee Higala, a celebration of local flavors and community spirit. Featuring some of the city’s favorite cafés—Fukuru, Mei Mei, Kopikuys, and Ummi’s Kitchen—the event invites visitors to indulge in rich, aromatic brews and delicious bites while enjoying the festive Higalaay vibe.

More than just coffee, Coffee Higala is about bringing people together—friends, families, and visitors alike—to celebrate the warmth, flavors, and camaraderie that define Cagayan de Oro. Come sip, savor, and share the joy of Kagay-anon coffee culture at SM CDO Downtown.

J.CO Donuts

Something to Get Mad About… in the Sweetest Way!

Chocolate lovers, rejoice! J.CO Donuts is bringing you an indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweetest cravings. This limited-time offer pairs an UNO-sized Choco Mylo Frappe with a Box of 3 chocolate-overloaded donuts, creating the perfect chocolate experience.

Each box is thoughtfully curated to deliver a burst of chocolatey goodness with every bite. It includes:

• Choco Mylo Donut – A rich, chocolatey classic that never fails to delight.
• Choco Caviar Chocolate Donut – Decadent chocolate with a luxurious touch.
• Oreology Donut – A playful twist combining chocolate and cookie crunch.

Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this duo of frappe and donuts is the ultimate chocolate indulgence. Don’t miss out on this sweet escape—your taste buds will thank you!

Feel the Vibrant Spirit of Higalaay at SM CDO Downtown’s Higala Land! 

This Higalaay Festival, SM CDO Downtown invites everyone to experience Higala Land—a glowing, dome-filled attraction that celebrates the heart and heritage of Kagay-anons. Step into a vibrant world that showcases iconic destinations and legendary stories of Cagayan de Oro, all brought to life in a unique, interactive space.

Perfect for family and friends, Higala Land is a place to strike a pose, capture memories, and embrace the festive spirit. More than just an installation, it’s a tribute to the culture, pride, and unity of the city.

Join us at SM CDO Downtown and make this Higalaay Festival truly unforgettable!

Learning beyond 6 p.m.? Not anymore for Grade 6 students at Iligan City’s Sta. Filomena Central School (SFCS), who now have their own classrooms in the newly constructed SM School Building.

At Iligan City’s Sta. Filomena Central School (SFCS), teachers and students have carried the weight of a challenge too familiar: not enough classrooms for its learners.

SFCS School Guidance Designate Helen Diez explained that the school only has 38 usable classrooms, while more are needed to serve its kindergarten, special needs education, and grade school population of 1,800.

“To achieve the one-teacher-to-one-classroom ratio, we really need at least 50 classrooms,” Teacher Helen said.

At first, grade 1 pupils were placed on emergency schedules, a move that affected reading outcomes and left many struggling with comprehension. This prompted the school to restore their regular hours.

The same shortage has forced grade 6 sections into emergency classes. Sharing the limited classroom, morning groups attended from 6 a.m. to noon, while afternoon batches studied from noon to 6 p.m. This is two hours shorter than the regular schedule: morning sessions from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and afternoon classes from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

“The shortage of classrooms is a hindrance and an obstacle for the school,” Teacher Helen shared. “The result of the emergency classes is not beneficial to the learners because their learning time is shortened. But our teachers here are very committed, and they have the passion to teach.”

Living through emergency classes

That passion was tested daily by SFCS teachers Mercy Cardiño and Diana Gornez, who both handled grade 6 emergency classes.

“Devotion talaga ang pagtuturo,” Teacher Mercy said, summing up the patience and perseverance required to keep students engaged through the long and odd hours.

For many learners, the 5-6 p.m. slot was especially draining. “During the last subject, students feel that it’s already late. Their minds are already elsewhere, and they are often distracted by other students who have regular schedules. Their performance in the last subject tends to dip compared to earlier classes.”

Teacher Diana agreed. “Ang core para sa aming teachers ay maging successful ang bawat araw na aming haharapin. So, we do our very best to explore various teaching strategies and also apply differentiated activities.” But with tired students, hot classrooms, and noise from after-school activities, it was a daily battle.

Before the SM School Building. SFCS students who experienced emergency classes shared limited classroom facilities. Before, grade 6 morning groups attended from 6:00 a.m. to noon, while afternoon batches studied from noon to 6:00 p.m.

“Para  i-maintain at i-foster ang attention ng bata in one hour ay isang malaking challenge, lalo na kapag mainit ang classroom. Hindi conducive for learning at nagma-matter ito sa performance ng bata,” she said, noting the shorter attention spans of younger students.

Emergency schedules also reshaped teachers’ lives. For the morning shift, teachers often woke up as early as 3 a.m. to prepare for the 6 a.m. class. The afternoon shift started at noon, but teachers still had to arrive by 9 a.m., with classes running until 6 p.m.

“We had to adapt because of the lack of classrooms for the sake of the children,” Teacher Diana said, adding that they needed to stay lively since children mirror their teachers’ energy, and it affects the whole classroom atmosphere.

New building, new hope. SFCS Grade 6 teachers Diana Gornez (left) and Mercy Cardiño (right), both affected by emergency classes, visit their classrooms in the newly built two-story, four-classroom SM School Building, which was recently turned over by SM Prime and SM Foundation.

Help in laying the groundwork

As SM Prime and SM Foundation turned over a new school building to SFCS, it signaled a return to normalcy that would give students and teachers a more conducive environment.

Teacher Mercy said that with a classroom assigned to her, she will no longer have to lug around heavy bags filled with teaching tools. “Now, the classrooms are complete, not only with fixtures and furniture for students’ needs, but also for us teachers. This gesture pushes us, teachers, na mas magpursige para sa mga bata.”

For Teacher Diana, the excitement was palpable among her students. “Their enthusiasm to learn has grown,” she said. But she also reminded them of the responsibility that comes with the opportunity to be the first ones to utilize the building.

With the added classrooms that help bring schedules back to normal, teachers are hopeful that students’ learning outcomes will improve.

Collaboration that builds the future

According to Dr. Jonathan Dela Peña, Iligan City Schools Division Superintendent, the shortage of classrooms remains a persistent challenge. The support of organizations like the SM Group emphasized the importance of partnerships in addressing education gaps.

He said that the group’s initiative was an efficient and targeted solution: “Aside from addressing the needs of the school in terms of improving the classroom-and-student ratio, it’s very swift. For me, it is really efficient. It addresses right away the crucial need of the school without waiting too long for the infrastructure to be finished.”

With the new school building in place, SFCS can finally leave behind emergency schedules and focus on boosting their fullest potential.

The new building includes a conveniently located mini library that supports the school’s program to enhance children’s reading and comprehension skills.