FEATURES

April 5, 2024.

Isinulat ng 13-anyos na si Jamaica Star Seraspe na nahihirapan na siyang huminga. Nakararanas na rin siya ng hydrophobia o labis na pagkatakot sa tubig.

Kung maospital man, sinabi niyang sana ma-comatose na lang siya dahil ayaw niyang maramdaman pa ang sakit.

At kinabukasan, April 6, tuluyan nang nawala sa mundo si Jamaica.

Ang dahilan? Rabies mula sa kagat ng isang tuta, dalawang buwan bago ang nakalulungkot na pangyayari.

Ayon sa kanyang ina na si Roselyn, idinala sa ospital si Jamaica dahil nilalagnat at nababalisa na ito.

Ang sabi ng bata, “Mama, baka may rabies na ako.”

Dito nagtaka ang ina at tinanong ang anak kung nakagat ba ito ng aso.

Sa kanyang dokumentasyon, isinulat ni Jamaica na, “Alam kong may rabies talaga ako… Hindi ko masabi kay mama dahil ayoko siyang maging disappointed.”

Sa ospital, itinali ang bata sa kama dahil sa pagwawala. Bumubula na rin ang bibig nito.

Labindalawang oras matapos dalhin dito, binawian na siya ng buhay.

Ayon sa mga doktor, posibleng abutin ng ilang araw o buwan bago lumabas ang sintomas ng rabies sa tao. Kapag nakagat, dapat hugasan agad ang sugat nang sampung minuto at pumunta sa pagamutan upang mabigyan ng anti-rabies vaccine.

Ayon kay Jamaica, isinulat niya ang kanyang karanasan upang maalala ang kanyang kamatayan. Ang kanyang huling mensahe, “Sana naman maging aware tayo sa environment natin, lalo na ‘pag may mga animals na kayang ma-transmit ‘yung disease. That’s all. Goodbye, world.”

Libo-libo ang dumalo sa libing ng isang bus driver sa China dahil sa pagsagip sa buhay ng 24 na pasahero, sa kabila ng mga sugat na natamo nang matamaan ng bakal.

Sa isang video, makikita si Wu Bin na minamaneho ang kanyang bus. Hindi niya alam na ito na ang huling sakay ng kanyang buhay.

Isa kasing malaki at mabigat na tipak ng bakal ang aksidenteng nahulog mula sa isang truck at biglang tumama sa bus.

Natamaan nito si Wu na nagtamo ng liver rupture at ilang rib fractures.

Sa sobrang sakit, napahawak siya sa kanyang sikmura at napasigaw. Ngunit nilabanan niya ito at ginamit ang kanyang huling lakas upang ihinto ang bus.

Pinaalalahanan niya pa ang mga pababang pasahero na mag-ingat dahil nasa gitna pa rin sila ng kalsada.

Nang matiyak na ligtas na ang lahat ng mga sakay, napabagsak na lang siya sa kanyang kinauupuan, at sa kasamaang-palad, binawian din ng buhay.

Ordinaryo man ang kanyang naging buhay, ngunit sa kanyang pinakahuling sandali, naging bayani si Wu na naging inspirasyon sa buong mundo.

The 14th Philippine SME Business Expo (PHILSME) is set to take place from May 10 to 11 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, continuing its legacy of empowering small and medium enterprises in the Philippines.

With over 120 sponsors and exhibitors, the expo and networking event will present 180 business solutions and opportunities. It will also feature 30 keynotes and presentations delivered by esteemed industry experts and leaders.

Doors will be open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, welcoming all entrepreneurs, business owners, and C-level executives seeking products to grow and scale their businesses. The opening ceremony will be held at 9:00 am on May 10 and visitors can now register for the two-day event online, free of charge.

Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to connect with exhibiting companies from industries such as finance, banking, advertising, healthcare, HR & recruitment, IT, payroll solutions, logistics, co-working spaces, franchising, telecommunications, AI solutions, Tourism, Business outsourcing solutions, Web Design services, and many more.

This 2024 edition’s co-presenters and Diamond sponsors are Esquire Financing Inc. and Innity Philippines while the Platinum sponsors include Odoo, AutoCount, InsureTayo, Toyota Financial Services Philippines Corporation, and PLDT Enterprise. Gold sponsors include Maybank, GCash, Bossjob, Radius Telecoms Inc., Benchmark Email, Green Tape, and Finest Media PH, and the Silver sponsors are Security Bank, Canva, Zoho Corporation, IWG, Maxilife, Acer Philippines, Sprout Solutions, and Evident Integrated Marketing.

The 14th PHILSME Business Expo organized by Mediacom Solutions Inc. is the Philippines’ biggest business-to-business trade show empowering thousands of SME Business Owners, Start-Ups, and Entrepreneurs across the country.

PHILSME is the legacy of the Philippine SME Business Expo and Network founder and then SME Business Growth-Enabler, David Abrenilla.

Quoting Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla, the current Managing Director of PHILSME, she says: “We were told that people see us as a cross-pollinator of business opportunities and we take that as an honor and a big responsibility. We continue what David started and we are here to stay as we help boost your business.”

Register Now to Attend for FREE at https://www.philsme.com/visit-us/

Looking for a strikingly good time? Look no further than SM Game Park at SM Mall of Asia!

Bowl a strike with your squad on 2 lanes (up to 12 people) or 4 lanes (up to 24 people).

Just Bowling, Please: While our promo price covers the lane rental, remember that other amenities like shoe rental and special oils are not included.

Walk-Ins Welcome: No need to fret about reservations! This promo is exclusively for walk-in guests itching for some bowling action.

Play by the Rules: Keep in mind, this offer isn’t valid for tournaments, corporate bookings, discounted online ticket vouchers, or in conjunction with other SM Game Park promos or government-mandated discounts.

Bowling Bucks: While the fun is priceless, remember this promo isn’t convertible to cash.

Limited Time Offer: Mark your calendars! This deal is only valid from April 17 to May 15, 2024.

Unlimited bowling fun awaits at SM Game Park Mall of Asia.

So, lace up those bowling shoes and get ready to strike up some fun at SM Game Park Mall of Asia! Don’t miss out on this exclusive offer to roll with the best. See you at the lanes!The future of bowling is here with the Philippines’ first 4-lane VIP experience with Augmented Reality (AR) and projector mapping.

Step into a world where bowling meets cutting-edge technology and experience the thrill of VIP bowling. Have an unforgettable experience at the 4-lane private Bowling equipped with Augmented Reality (AR) technology that is a first in the country. Bring vibrant images to life with projector mapping, making every roll an adventure. 

From April 17 to May 15, 2024, we’re rolling out an exclusive VIP bowling packages at half the price that’s sure to bowl you over! Here’s the scoop:

Timing is Everything: Swing by Monday through Thursday between 10 am and 5 pm (excluding holidays) to snag this awesome deal.

Hourly Fun: Enjoy promo rates that keep the good times rolling. Choose from Package A of Php 2,000 for 2 lanes and Package B of Php 4,025 for 4 lanes with KTV.

Set the pins flying and sing your heart out for only Php 4,025 per hour for 4 lanes with KTV.

Bring Your Crew: With a recommended capacity of 6 per lane, gather your friends, family, or colleagues for a bowling bash! Choose between 2 lanes for up to 12 people or 4 lanes for up to 24 people.

SM Mall of Asia (MOA) partnered with the prestigious Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) and the PHSA Ibarang Alumni Association to showcase the dynamic talents of young Filipino artists.

SM Mall of Asia teams up with the Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) for the “Sining at Kabataan” showcase.

The “Sining at Kabataan” performance showcase, held on April 21 at the MOA Main Mall Atrium, offered an inspiring display of creativity. Visitors enjoyed a captivating program featuring music, indigenous dance, ballet, theatre, and creative writing. 

Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) Pangkat Mananayaw

Ethnic Craze (group dance by Makiling Dance)

Hiraya group dance by Maquiling Ballet

Beatrice Cena and Agung Sicam perform a guitar duet.

From April 19-22, a stunning Visual Arts Exhibit displayed the exceptional works of PHSA’s young visual artists, offering a glimpse into the future of Philippine art.

“Ukay-Ukay,” a mixed-media creation by Victor Emmanuel Carmelo Nadera II

“With over 4 million people visiting our 85 malls nationwide daily, we are committed to providing a platform for artistic expression that comes alive through performances,” said SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin.

SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin

Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) Director 4 Greg Zuniega

This exciting collaboration between MOA and PHSA not only celebrates artistic talent but also fosters a thriving cultural hub within SM.

For details on exciting SM Supermalls events, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

SM marked Earth Day 2024 with a series of initiatives designed to promote environmental responsibility and empower the next generation.

In a groundbreaking partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Nestle Philippines, Boy Scouts of the Philippines, and Girl Scouts of the Philippines, SM Cares has initiated the “Earth Day Every Day Project.” This innovative program empowers young people to become environmental stewards by focusing on plastic waste reduction. Students are encouraged to collect plastics within their communities and deposit them at designated collection facilities within SM malls nationwide.

Additionally, the SM Plastic Waste Collection Program, a partnership with the non-governmental organization (NGO) Friends of Hope, aims to reduce plastic waste in landfills and oceans through proper plastic segregation.

Recognizing the pressing issue of electronic waste (e-waste), SM Cares has partnered with PLDT and Smart to enhance the reach of its Electronic Waste Collection (EWC) Program. This collaborative effort expands access to safe and responsible e-waste disposal solutions for Filipinos nationwide, while promoting responsible consumption habits among consumers.

Internally, SM launched the #SMWasteFreeFuture program, aiming to revolutionize waste management practices across the company. This program emphasizes a shift in mindset towards waste reduction and responsible disposal, fostering positive behavioral changes among employees and creating a company-wide culture of sustainability.

“At SM, we believe that sustainability is not just a responsibility, but an opportunity. Through programs like these, we are committed to creating a positive impact on the environment and inspiring others to join us in building a greener future,” said Liza Silerio, SM Cares Program Director for the Environment.

These initiatives underscore SM Cares’ unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability, transcending Earth Day to embody a continuous effort towards creating a more sustainable future for all.

SM Prime remains steadfast in its commitment to spreading social good. This dedication extends to SM’s forthcoming endeavors, which will be led by its future property development, with a focus on enhancing positive social impact in the communities where SM operates.

To learn more about programs building a greener future, including SM Prime’s commitment to incorporating these sustainability initiatives into its future developments, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

Gather the entire crew as we enter together the amazing World of Webs right here at The Block, SM North EDSA!

Get ready to don your masks, costumes, and web shooters! The World of Webs pop-up has officially opened its gates at The Block Atrium, SM North EDSA, starting May 1, 2024. Embark on a web-slinging adventure into the spider-themed city and seize the special opportunity to meet our friendly neighborhood Super Hero, Spider-Man.

Peter Parker, who protects his city as the Amazing Spider-Man, is a fan-favorite character in the Philippines thanks to his big heart and funny quips. With his remarkable arachnid-like abilities and endearing personality, Spider-Man has captured the hearts of fans of all ages. This relatability has made people feel like anyone could channel their inner hero, establishing him as a beloved Marvel Super Hero that many fans truly identify with.

Gear up and here are the exciting things you can expect from the World of Webs pop-up.

Swing into “Spider-Man City”

This marks your official invitation to enter the World of Webs! Step into “Spider-Man City”, inspired by New York City and scenes from fan-favorite Spider-Man stories – check out the details from the floor and column walls up to the ceiling, especially the towering 30-foot-tall Daily Bugle-themed centerpiece. Swing into adventure alongside your favorite masked hero here at the atrium!  

Spider-Man Meet and Greet

What’s a city without everybody’s favorite wall-crawler, right? Get a chance to meet and greet the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. Circle May 1, 4, and 5, on your calendars, and don’t forget to grab your friends and family. Snap a selfie with Spidey at this free event. Check out the official social media pages of SM North EDSA for more announcements. 

Collectors Market

From toys, and collectibles to apparel–complete your visit to the World of Webs by gifting yourself special Spider-Man-themed merchandise! Treat yourself or find the perfect gifts for your squad and family with our wide range of licensed items.

The World of Webs pop-up will run from April 30 to May 14, 2024.  So, don’t miss out on this special opportunity to be part of the Spider-Man-themed adventure. We are excited to see you here as we celebrate our favorite Super Hero. Post your fave poses with the hashtags #SpiderManWorldofWebsPH #SpiderManWoWAtSMNorth for a chance to get featured! See you here, #SMFam!

 The largest solar panel system of SM Supermalls in SM City Santa Rosa has recently received a Certificate of Compliance by the Energy Regulatory Commission. 

Manila, Philippines – SM Supermalls has recently unveiled the company’s largest self-used rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system to date at SM City in Santa Rosa, Laguna, installed across over 2 hectares of the mall’s building. With this recent milestone of scaling the company’s efforts towards energy efficiency, SM Prime reaffirms its commitment towards building for a sustainable future as it progresses towards its Net-Zero Ambition by 2040.

Doubling down on energy efficiency 

The solar PV system at SM City Santa Rosa which has recently received the Certificate of Compliance (COC) from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is composed of 5,772 panels at 3.088 MWp capacity and has an annual solar energy production of up to 4.292GWh. The installation of the solar PV system at SM City Santa Rosa will power 15% of the mall’s energy consumption needs. 

SM Supermalls first started installing solar PV systems in 2014 at SM City North EDSA—the first mall in the Philippines to harness solar energy. In 2016, the solar power facility in SM Mall of Asia with twice the capacity of SM North EDSA was installed. Harnessing solar energy as a clean and renewable source of energy, SM Supermalls has reduced reliance on the power grid, which is helpful during times when rising electricity demand is caused by increased temperatures.

SM Supermalls’ solar panel systems (clockwise from top left): SM Seaside City Cebu, SM City Grand Central, SM City North Edsa, and SM Mall of Asia

SM Supermalls is also part of the Interruptible Load Program (ILP) of the Department of Energy that provides 110MV of power for communities across the Philippines. 56 malls use their own generator sets instead of relying on the power grid, which has proven helpful when there are local power interruptions and power supply needs to be rationed. SM has the largest contribution among the private sector with SM Mall of Asia providing the highest committed capacity at 15.92MW for this program.

All 85 malls of SM Supermalls are energy efficient. Every mall maximizes natural lighting, through skylights and windows, and all malls have used LED lighting since 2018, ensuring energy efficiency. 

Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, shared “SM Supermalls is committed towards contributing to build a sustainable future. We have made significant strides in clean energy regeneration, as well as water conservation and recycling, and solid waste management. With the continuous support of our partners and the communities where we operate, we believe we can truly reach our science-based goals towards Net Zero by 2040.”

###

About SM Prime

SM Prime remains steadfast in its commitment to spreading social good. This dedication extends to SM’s forthcoming endeavors, which will be led by its future property development, with a focus on enhancing positive social impact in the communities where SM operates.

About SM Cares 

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community, including programs on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on Environment.

To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares. 

Back and bigger than ever! Returning this May 2 to 9 at Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall – Kultura Filipino Design Studio: Made in the Philippines edition.

The event is a welcoming, community-based space that fosters connections between like-minded brands dedicated to celebrating Filipino culture. The biggest Filipino Design Studio to date, we’re bringing together over 70 guest brands, house labels, and social enterprises. With a focus on all things Pinoy, from Barong Tagalog and modern Filipiniana, to resort wear, pearls and accessories, tropical home decor and wellness essentials; explore new, up-and-coming brands alongside familiar favorites. 

As we continue to highlight products with a purpose, we’ve selected numerous brands based on their commitment to environmentally friendly practices and support for local artisan communities. Social enterprise Hibla PH offers a range of apparel made from authentic Philippine textiles, while also hosting workshops focused on activities like upcycling accessories and bracelet weaving. Another example is Ruyág Native Products Manufacturing, which employs Bicolano artisans who handcraft bags using natural materials to leave a lesser carbon footprint. Home decor and furniture brand Likha+Mundo scouts small, “mom-and-pop” craft businesses from around the nation, giving them a larger platform to share their creations. 

This season’s line-up is also set to feature handmade jewelry by Virtucio Fashion Designs and Mjorian; Filipiniana-inspired pieces by Raquel’s Piña Cloth Products, C&C lifestyle, and Handwoven Beauty; home essentials by Woven, Dwellbeing, and WIX Cozy Homes.  

Take a look at the full line-up. Discover and delight in local artistry at Kultura’s Filipino Design Studio from May 2 to 9 at Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, EDSA corner Doña Julia Vargas Ave., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.

Learn more about the event on @KulturaFilipino Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

 

–

Check out the full list of brands below: 

GUEST BRANDS

Adela Puls – handcrafted bag brand embracing slow fashion 

Amber & Anne  - colorful embroidered placemats and coasters for every occasion

And Again Clothing - fashionable apparel sustainably made from upcycled flour sacks, scraps, and surplus fabric

Binibini Marikit – everyday apparel inspired by Filipino heritage and folklore 

Brave Story - lifestyle brand that embraces slow fashion, creating apparel from repurposed local textiles in limited quantities

C&C Lifestyle – unique, handmade apparel brand that partners with home-based weaving communities

D’ Bayong Art Gallery – vibrant pandan bayong bags, hand-painted by local artists

Dwellbeing – natural, small-batch personal care brand that advocates upcycling, empowering, and giving back 

Ethnique - colorful, trendy beachwear and bags 

Idyllic Summers - handmade apparel inspired by European and East Asian garments by weavers in Abra and Iloilo

HandwovenBeauty - traditional and modern Inabel Filipiniana brand partnering with over 100 local weavers

Hibla Philippines - social enterprise preserving heritage and empowering weaving communities through Filipiniana-inspired apparel

Likha+Mundo – home decor and furniture brand that supports small mom-and-pop craft businesses from around the region

Lily Jewelry - dainty jewelry inspired by travel, nature, artisans’ stories, and craftsmanship of various cultures 

Macopa – trendy, one-of-a-kind apparel sustainably made from upcycled flour sacks

Masabel Iloco - distinctly-Ilocano apparel and accessories made with abel weave patterns

Mjorian – handmade, island-inspired jewelry featuring semi-precious stones and pearls

Raquel’s Piña Cloth Products - handwoven apparel made from piña by skilled Aklanon weavers 

Ruyág Native Products Manufacturing – organic, eco-friendly bags handcrafted by Bicolano artisans

Virtucio Fashion Designs – handcrafted statement jewelry made with pearls, wood, resin and more

WIX Cozy Homes – homegrown, hand-poured candle brand promoting self-care through aromatherapy

Woven – handmade accessories and home items for the modern Filipino lifestyle, by local crafting communities 

Ziya Style – statement outerwear and tropical-themed apparel 

 

HOUSE BRANDS

A-M and Ayesha Gemstones – authentic freshwater pearl and gemstone jewelry 

Agsam Fashion Fern – handwoven accessories by indigenous weavers using agsam, a fern plant native to Surigao del Sur

Anmari & Co. – handcrafted bags made from natural materials such as buntal, tikog, raffia, and rattan

Asnie – classic South Sea and genuine freshwater pearl jewelry

Asron – elegantly designed authentic freshwater pearl jewelry

Aurea Pearl – authentic premium quality South Sea pearl jewelry in classic designs 

Auro Chocolate – award-winning, tree-to-bar chocolate featuring unique Filipino flavors 

Barong Filipino - traditional and modern Barong Tagalog by a family-owned enterprise

Barong Lumban – traditional and modern Barongs, from corporate wear to coat Barongs 

Berches Barong - laser-cut and embroidered modern Barongs

Berches Filipiniana - laser-cut and embroidered modern Filipiniana

Boho Manila – vibrant, bohemian-inspired statement jewelry handcrafted by Filipina mothers

CacaoMistry – instant cacao drink developed by a chemist-mom, including sugar-free and plant-based options

Cocoa Monster – Philippine-made cocoa products including tablea, dried fruit dipped in chocolate, and cocoa powder

Cocobody – variety of natural personal care products made with virgin coconut oil 

Dermtropics – organic, sustainably-packaged personal care products made with virgin coconut oil 

Destileria Barako - craft distillery best known for international award-winning ube cream liquor

Eva Marie Arts & Crafts – colorful handmade bags crafted from tikog reeds 

First Botanicals – natural personal care products supporting local coconut and calamansi farmers

Flutter Statement Jewelry – larger-than-life, luxury statement jewelry

For Keeps Clean Beauty – body care essentials made with botanical ingredients and high-quality essential oils

Global Filipina - traditional and modern Filipiniana, from terno boleros to silk cocoon dresses and more 

Gourmet Farms – organically-farmed coffee, tea, and healthy chip alternatives

Haspe Design Studio – home items and decor sustainably crafted from excess wood and locally-sourced materials 

Hijo / La Obra - resort wear for men and women in classic, earth-toned colors 

Intricado - vibrant, resort-ready clothing featuring tropical prints and unique silhouettes

Islas Filipinas – resort wear line for men and women featuring tops with handwoven accents and embroidered polo shirts

Jhaz Footwear – abaca footwear with unique designs made by a family-owned enterprise based in Laguna

Kaffea – coffee and chocolate drinks sweetened with low-glycemic coconut sugar

Kangkong King – the nation’s first ever flavored kangkong chips 

Kara De Juan – ethically-made accessories upcycled from discarded carabao horn

Karne Liston Kawali - litson kawali chips, including classic and keto-friendly flavors 

Khai Asia Pearls – genuine freshwater and South Sea pearl jewelry in modern designs

LJ Pearls – stylish South Sea and freshwater pearl accessories 

Maison Grid Plus – Filipino-designed dinnerware and home accessories inspired by nature

Malagos Chocolate – premium, award-winning chocolates sourced from Davao

Mayumi - Filipiniana formal wear and handwoven tops 

My Gems – semi-precious stone and pearl jewelry made for layering 

Nuevo Ystilo - modern Filipiniana made using traditional techniques and natural dyes

Our Little Ideas - towels and blankets made by weaving communities in Bicol using traditional techniques on antique looms

Rurungan sa Tubod – Palawan-based nonprofit teaching underserved women piña and cotton weaving technology 

SaBroso Tsokolate – artisanal chocolate products crafted using cacao beans sourced from Camiguin

Salbahe Chili – flavored peanuts, chili oil, and more spicy snacks

Simoy ng Haraya - small-batch personal care and home essentials such as candles, reed diffusers, and room sprays

Theo & Philo Artisan Chocolates - high-quality chocolate in distinctive Pinoy flavors, crafted from Davao cacao beans

Tygie – colorful modern Filipiniana including wrap blouses, organza skirts, and dresses

Yasira IL Magnifica – variety of authentic South Sea pearl jewelry sourced from Palawan

Yoga Love – mindfully-made personal care and wellness products that use naturally derived ingredients

Get to know SM Group’s The Tarp Project

A customer at SM Aura purchases an upcycled bag made through the SM Green Finds x Zarah Juan’s collab, “The Tarp Project”. Proceeds from the project will be donated to SM Foundation’s innovation programs in education and health.

The SM Store and Filipino artisanal fashion brand Zarah Juan gave new life to used tarpaulins while supporting various social good causes in the Philippines.

The Tarp Project, launched on Earth Day, April 22, 2024, is a joint endeavor between SM Green Finds and fashion designer Zarah Juan. It supports SM Group’s commitment to leveling up its circularity programs with social inclusion.

Weaving communities’ goals together

The bags were cut and cleaned by persons deprived of liberty (PDL) from Quezon City and were assembled by Filipino artisans from Bulacan.

The social good collaboration collects, repurposes, and transforms used tarpaulins from SM Stores into stylish and sustainable bags and pouches, with proceeds donated to SM Foundation’s School Building and Health and Medical programs.

For the initial phase, the goal was to collect about 5,000 square meters of used tarpaulins, which will be cleaned and cut by persons deprived of liberty (PDL) in Quezon City, and then assembled by communities in Bulacan into approximately 4,000 reusable bags and 1,400 reusable pouches.

“It looks very simple, pero napaka laki ng puso ng bag na ito,” entreprenuer and designer Zarah Juan said. “The bags first go through the PDLs of Quezon City, which will help in their hope, rehabilitation, and life transformation.”

“The tarps will then be transformed by our partner Filipino artisans in Bulacan. This collaboration will provide them with additional livelihood opportunities, and since these are upcycled bags, we will help reduce waste going into landfills. By buying this, mayroon ka ng magandang bag, marami ka pang natulungan,” she added, saying that customers’ purchases go a long way.

From circular economy to ripples of social good

Through the collaboration of SM Green Finds and Zarah Juan, discarded tarpaulins from SM Store are being transformed into stylish bags by PDLs and local artisans. The project not only diverts waste from landfills but also empowers various communities through livelihood opportunities. The Tarp Project further creates ripples of social good through the program’s beneficiary, the SM Foundation Inc.

SM Foundation Executive Director for Education programs Carmen Linda Atayde also shared that proceeds from The Tarp Project sales will contribute to supporting SMFI’s initiatives. This includes the installation of smart classroom boards and the implementation of rainwater catchment systems in partner community health centers as part of their health and medical program.

“This project is truly commendable as it not only supports local artisans but also serves a greater purpose. By purchasing these bags, we not only provide livelihood opportunities but also contribute directly to SMFI’s school building program, benefiting countless school children, as well as supporting SMFI’s health and medical programs, aiding patients and health workers alike. It’s a powerful example of how supporting initiatives like this can create a ripple effect of social good,” she said.

SM Store has long championed sustainable living through its SM Green Finds program, a green retail initiative implemented across more than 70 branches nationwide alongside other SM retail affiliates.

Looking to further expand this green effort, the company sought a circularity program that would create an opportunity to convert waste into something more useful, while also supporting communities and creating a cycle of social impact.