FEATURES

As President of SM Supermalls, Steven Tan has exhibited leadership values which go far beyond the boundaries of the retail sector that he is most comfortable and adept with. Fueled by his passion to promote positive social change and global peace, Mr. Tan has supported the Global Youth Summit for over six years now; working as the primary force behind the platform, offering partnership venues and logistical assistance for its annual execution.

At the Global Peace Foundation’s recent Global Peace Awards, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan receives the Philanthropy and Corporate Citizenship Award for his commitment to peace-building initiatives, enhancing life quality through funding and partnerships.

The milestones achieved by the Global Youth Summit are considerable, with Mr. Tan’s commitment helping them amass the following notable records – 586,500 engaged youth, 950 schools reached, and presence in 62 countries. Mr. Tan empowers the next generation by fostering dialogue and understanding, and by creating positive global change through service.

SM Cares and the Global Peace Foundation’s 2023 Global Youth Summit last August 11, 2023, at SM Mall of Asia unites thousands of students and youth leaders nationwide to address societal concerns linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Empowering the next generation is important to SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, and he strengthens this through fostering dialogue, understanding, and contributing to positive global change.

This was duly recognized by the Global Peace Foundation during their Global Peace Awards held last December 14. Mr. Tan was bestowed the Award for Philanthropy and Corporate Citizenship. This award recognizes leadership that has demonstrated significant commitment to peace-building initiatives through funding and partnership engagement, that strives to improve and enhance the quality of life for all.

SM Supermalls’ Senior Assistant Vice President Royston Cabunag, Global Peace Foundation International President James Flynn, and SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan

Global Peace Foundation Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon

(L-R): Global Peace Foundation Vice President for Education Tony Devine, event host Fahly Handa, SM Supermalls’ Senior Assistant Vice President Royston Cabunag, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, Global Peace Foundation Philippines President Aldrin Nituma, Global Peace Foundation Asia Pacific Regional President Ingill Ra, and Alliance for Korea United Executive Director Alex Choi

The Global Peace Awards’ other categories include Legacy of Service and Peace, Interfaith and Spiritual Leadership, Freedom of Religion and Conscience, Strengthening Families, Outstanding Service, Innovative Scholarship, Moral and Innovative Leadership, and Culture of Peace.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Tan spoke of how, “I only stand here tonight as a representative of SM Cares and the many incredible individuals as well as our partners, who work tirelessly for a more inclusive and empowered world. A better world.”

SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan (4^th from left) with (L-R): Senior Assistant Vice President Royston Cabunag, Vice President for Corporate Marketing Grace Magno, Vice President for Human Resources Cheryll Agsaoay, along with SM Cares Assistant Vice President Richard Caluyo and Group Marketing Manager Angela Wieneke with SM Supermalls’ Commercial Area Manager Jerizza Nery (2^nd from right)

“SM Supermalls’ commitment to developing the youth through SM Cares has been a journey filled with purpose and passion. The collaborations we’ve had with esteemed organizations like the Global Peace Foundation, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the National Youth Commission, and many others show the power of unity in creating a better world for tomorrow.”

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Philippines launch the Inclusive Child-Centered Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (ICDRRM) project, along with Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, at SM City Telabastagan in Pampanga last November 30, 2023.

The Global Peace Awards were first conferred in 2011 at the Global Peace Convention in Seoul, South Korea. They were established to honor government, civil society, faith leaders, and organizations whose exemplary efforts have substantially advanced the vision and mission of building a world of peace and shared prosperity.

It’s a distinct honor for Mr. Tan, SM Supermalls, and SM Cares to have their tireless and sustained efforts duly recognized. It serves as inspiration to stay the course, work harder in the name of peace and shared prosperity, and to believe.

Families of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were treated to heartwarming moments, lively performances, and significant announcements at the annual Banco De Oro (BDO) Unibank Pamaskong Handog event at SM Fairview last December 16.

“BDO values the hard work of our OFWs, and we want to help them by making it easier for them to provide for the needs of their families back home,” said BDO’s Senior Vice President and Head of Remittance Genie Gloria. “Through our partnership with SM Supermalls, we made banking and remittance very affordable and easily accessible and incorporated it into the behavior and needs of the Filipino family, which led to us becoming the preferred bank of OFWs.”

(L-R): SM Supermalls’ Senior Assistant Vice President for Marketing Timothy Jonas Cuenca, Banco de Oro (BDO) Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Central Operations Joseph Gotuaco, BDO First Vice President for Central Operations Group Cel Esma, BDO Senior Vice President and Head of Remittance Genie Gloria, SM Supermalls’ Vice President for Corporate Marketing Grace Magno, and SM Supermalls’ Senior Assistant Vice President for Mall Operations Johanna Rupisan

A fun-filled program hosted by comedians MC & Lassy featured games, raffles, and surprises from BDO partners, including Remitly, an online remittance service that offers international money transfers to over 150 countries and has been a trusted partner of BDO for a decade. One of the highlights of the event was the heartwarming performance by actor-singer Piolo Pascual, BDO’s long-time brand ambassador.

Remitly, represented by Business Development Manager Roy Delo Perez, is a digital remittance service that facilitates international money transfers and has been a trusted partner of Banco de Oro (BDO) for 10 years.

Banco de Oro (BDO)’s long-time brand ambassador, Piolo Pascual.

This year’s Banco de Oro (BDO) Pamaskong Handog is filled with engaging games, exciting raffles, and delightful surprises from BDO partners.

Adding to the day’s excitement was the introduction of the newest member of the BDO family, content creator Small Laude, whose engaging persona instantly captured the crowd.

The newest member of the Banco de Oro (BDO) family, Small Laude.

Banco de Oro (BDO) endorsers Piolo Pascual (2^nd from left) and Small Laude (2^nd from right) with event hosts Lassy (left) & MC (right).

 Piolo and Small also announced a surprise gift from BDO and SM Supermalls to all Kabayan savings account holders. Each savings account holder is entitled to special discounts from partner merchants such as the SM Store, Miniso, SM Surplus, and Ace Hardware on selected days this December. Following this, every first Tuesday of the month for 2024 is Kabayan Day, where Kabayan account holders will be entitled to a 10% discount for a minimum purchase with participating merchants like SM Store, SM Hypermarket, SaveMore, SM Surplus, Miniso, Watsons, Ace Hardware, and more.

 Finally, BDO paid tribute to one of the OFWs who have trusted their services since the very beginning. Maria Teresa Yasuki was the very first client to open an account with BDO Remit in Japan. As a “thank you” gift, BDO brought her back to the Philippines to be with her family for the first time in 22 years. Her two-way ticket to Japan was sponsored by SM, and her family was also gifted an SM Supermalls shopping spree worth P10,000.

Maria Teresa Yasuki (third from right), the first client to open an account with Banco de Oro (BDO) Remit in Japan, is honored by BDO with a P10,000 SM Supermalls shopping spree for her family.

 “I left the Philippines without any grandchildren, and now I have three,” said Yasuki. “I am so grateful to BDO and SM for giving me the chance to come home and spend Christmas with my family after 22 years. This is what I have been working towards.”

As a “thank you” gift, Banco de Oro (BDO) and SM Supermalls brought back overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Maria Teresa Yasuki, the very first client to open an account with BDO Remit in Japan, to the Philippines after 22 years.

Since 2012, it has been BDO and SM’s mission to uplift overseas Filipinos with holiday cheer through the Pamaskong Handog. BDO and SM have been working together in delivering special treats for OFWs, bringing Filipino families closer to enjoy their special time together inside SM Supermalls all year round.

For more details on Pamaskong Handog events and the latest OFW promos, tips, and events, visit the BDO Kabayan Facebook page.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp., a leading gaming and leisure provider in the Philippines, together with its flagship brands, BingoPlus, the first and only live streaming bingo in the country, and ArenaPlus, your 24/7 sports-betting app in the country, celebrate the holiday spirit in its annual Christmas Media Party 2023. The event took place on December 14, 2023, at the prestigious Century Mall Events Center, Makati City.

Christmas is all about the value of gratitude. It is a time of showing great appreciation towards the people that valuably contributed to one’s happiness and growth. In honoring this holiday spirit, DigiPlus, BingoPlus, and ArenaPlus established an annual thanksgiving party that specifically aims to memorialize the priceless role of the media in the business sector, along with their unparalleled support towards the brands. Mr. Jasper Vicencio, the president of AB Leisure Exponent Inc. And Total Gamezone Xtreme, expressed his earnest gratitude towards the media partners. “Your support for BingoPlus and ArenaPlus has been very instrumental and significant to our growth. We wouldn’t have reached this far if not because of you guys.”

The yearly event also serves as a symbol of hope for stronger partnerships and further collaborations in the future. Mr. Andy Tsui, the president of DigiPlus, promises the media guests a brighter future for the brands. “2023 was indeed the success that we targeted, that’s why we assure you and most especially our stakeholders that DigiPlus will be consistent and firm with its mission, which is to be the leading gaming and leisure provider in the country.”

A multitude of esteemed names from prestigious media companies attended the Christmas Media Party 2023. Various activities were organized for the respected guests to enjoy, such as exciting raffle games that gifted lucky players with a total of PhP 70,000 worth of gift checks and a fun Lucky 7 game that rewarded winners with an outstanding amount of PhP 60,000 worth of gift certificates. In addition, two fashionable guests were also titled as the evening’s best dressed, taking home PhP 5,000 pesos worth of gift checks each. 

To make the night even more marvelous, the brands prepared premium merchandise and luxurious wines as gifts to the media partners. 

Establishment of the annual Media Party underscores DigiPlus, BingoPlus, and ArenaPlus’ heartfelt gratitude to the invaluable contribution of the media towards its consistent prosperity. It is an emblem of the brands’ utmost appreciation towards the media partners’ endless support, forging a strong partnership that will give way for further collaborations in the future.  

ArenaPlus and BingoPlus proudly stand as a flagship brand under Digiplus Interactive Corp, solidifying its position as a leading gaming and leisure provider in the country. With a reputation for excellence and innovation, Digiplus Interactive Corp continues to enrich the gaming experience for Filipino players across the nation.

For more updates, visit www.bingoplus.com and www.arenaplus.net or download the apps via the App Store and Google Play.

Global Compact Network Philippines (GCNP) Planet Pillar, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), is calling on Micro,Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to proactively participate in the implementation of the Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) Act. This initiative aims to drive broader stakeholder engagement in practicing circularity and sustainability.

The EPR Act marks a significant step towards enabling a circular economy. It requires producers to be accountable for their products' entire lifecycle, especially waste reduction and recycling. This legislation aligns with the Philippines'
commitment to climate change mitigation and sustainable development.

At a recent webinar titled "LOOPFORWARD: Implementing the EPR Law," co-hosted by GCNP Planet Pillar and DENR, key aspects of the EPR Act were discussed, focusing on their relevance and practicality for MSMEs. The webinar also highlighted concrete ways to minimize waste and create revenue streams while contributing to
environmental protection and climate action.

MSMEs are encouraged to support the law by registering their businesses, even on a voluntary basis. As of September 2023, 709 organizations have submitted and had their EPR programs approved, of which 105 are from obliged enterprises, 248 are
from MSMEs, 49 from collectives, and 307 producer responsibility organizations.

“By addressing issues related to responsible consumption and production, pollution prevention, waste reduction, innovation, and the overall promotion of sustainable practices across various sectors, EPR is a valuable tool in the global effort to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and create a more sustainable and equitable world,” said Esperanza Sajul, Assistant Director at the Environmental Management Bureau.

After her presentation on EPR, she was joined in a panel discussion by Rondell Torres, Sustainability Lead of Unilever Philippines, Crispian Lao, Vice Chairman of the National Solid Waste Management Commission under the Office of the President and Private Sector Representative for the Recycling Industry Sector, and Engr. Richard Harvey Venturina, Health, Safety and Environment Supervisor of JBC Food

Corporation. The panelists discussed the implementation strategies of the EPR including the support needed for its successful implementation. Yoly Crisanto, Co-Chair of Planet Pillar and Globe Group’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, emphasized the crucial role of multi-sectoral
collaboration in ensuring the EPR Act’s success.

“Reducing plastic waste and promoting a more circular economy isn't a task limited to just some industries or regulatory bodies.  The EPR can only be properly implemented through a concerted effort of all stakeholders, starting from waste segregation by households and communities, with the participation of MSMEs and large corporations, until recycling by accredited waste management partners. We encourage everyone to do their part in the implementation of the EPR Act,” she said. Meanwhile, Melissa Vergel de Dios, Planet Pillar Lead and Chief Sustainability Officer at PLDT, Inc. added “As the Philippines continues to navigate through challenges of plastic waste and marine pollution as well as the worsening impacts of climate change, we look towards the implementation of the EPR law to guide and harmonize our efforts toward sustainable solutions.”

“And while this law puts emphasis on the responsibility of producers and big corporations, at the end of the day, we all share the same resources, and no one is spared from the consequences of inaction and mismanagement of our waste,” she
added.

According to a 2021 World Bank study, the Philippines generates 61,000 metric tons of waste daily. Only 33% of these go to landfills and garbage dumps, while 35% are leaked into the open environment and oceans. The same study showed that the
economy loses 70% of the material value of plastics equivalent to US$790 to 890 million per year.

GCNP Planet Pillar aims to help MSMEs and grassroots communities in greening their operations and in maximizing the practicality of adopting circularity solutions. It advocates the efficient use of the planet's resources by mobilizing its network of private sector partners to conduct various learning sessions for MSMEs and the
general public on circularity and environmental stewardship.

To learn more about Planet Pillar and the activities of Global Compact Network Philippines, kindly follow the social media pages below:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/globalcompactnetworkPHILIPPINES
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-compact-network-philippines/

Sustainability at Globe

Globe is a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact and has committed to uphold the Ten Principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. It also supports 10 out of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, with particular focus on SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 13 – Climate Action. As a Participant in the #RaceToZero campaign of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Globe has committed to set a science-based target through the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Learn more about Globe Sustainability by visiting the Globe Sustainability Website and the Globe Annual Integrated Report.
Follow us on @GlobeIcon on Facebook and @globe_icon on Instagram, and Globe Telecom  on LinkedIn.

Email us at: globeofgood@globe.com.ph

For more information, please contact:

Yoly C. Crisanto
Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer
Globe Group
Email Address: gtcorpcomm@globe.com.ph
Globe Press Room: https:/ www.globe.com.ph/about-us/newsroom.html
Twitter: @talk2GLOBE │ Facebook: http:/ www.facebook.com/globeph

The Philippines’ Magna Carta for Disabled Persons ensures the rehabilitation, self-development, and self-
reliance of persons with disabilities. The country provides educational assistance to people with
disabilities from primary to tertiary education, including vocational or technical training.

One such school is the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) in Pasay City. For over a century, the school
had demonstrated the transformative power of education in empowering and unlocking the capabilities of
those with diverse disabilities to live fulfilling lives.

Though standing as a testament to the Philippines' long-standing commitment to differently-abled
education, the school, one of Southeast Asia's oldest institutions for the deaf, suffers from the effects of
time and wear, compromising its ability to fulfill its mission.

The school lacked basic facilities and accessibility features: converted classrooms, timeworn corridors,
limited space for vocational training, inadequate furniture, dilapidated walls and ceilings, broken tiles and
faucets, and dim lighting. It was also prone to flooding due to drainage problems, and it had only one
functional toilet with a broken door infested by termites.

Revitalizing a legacy

In a transformative partnership, the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI), and the Department of
Education's Schools Division Office of Pasay City joined forces to breathe new life into the Senior High
School building and a four-story, 12-classroom structure. This initiative, executed under the DepEd's
adopt-a-school program, stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in revitalizing educational
infrastructure for the benefit of the community.

Previously hindered by infrastructural limitations, the century-old school now features enhanced learning
spaces dedicated to various subjects, including dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending,
food & beverage preparation, ICT, and dance. A dance studio with a dressing room and a conference
room were also refurbished.

To enhance safety and accessibility, ramps and railings were installed throughout the campus, ensuring
ease of movement for all students. Aside from revitalizing 10 classrooms, the SM group also refurbished
the conference rooms, and the lobby with a reception area to provide a comfortable environment.

Helping instill good hygiene and encourage healthy habits, a handwashing station, and separate male
and female toilets were rehabilitated with clean, functional cubicles, urinals, and PWD-friendly facilities.
The covered court was restored with a spacious stage, creating a conducive area for outdoor learning
and recreation.

The rehabilitation of the facilities at the PSD was undertaken, not just to address the physical challenges
but also to cultivate an environment where every student can thrive. The project stands as a testament to
the SM and Henry Sy Foundations’ continued pursuit of inclusivity and its commitment to empowering
differently-abled individuals through education.

Snag Fantastic Tech Gears from Cyberzone throughout December 2023!

‘Tis the season to #FeelTheCyberThrill once more and win #TechAssured prizes from Cyberzone. The Cyberzone Gadget Craze is back where you can get a chance to win exciting gadgets perfect to start the new year with.

Running from Dec 2 to 31, 2023, to earn one raffle entry, you can join the raffle program just by spending accumulated receipts of 500 pesos at any Cyberzone establishment nationwide or via the SM Malls Online app. The best news is…that there are so many awesome prizes at stake, for more chances of winning. Here’s what’s up for grabs:

2 x iPhone 15 Pro

2 lucky winners will get their hands on the new iPhone 15 Pro. If you have been wanting to upgrade your iPhone or are simply looking for a powerful, versatile, and stylish phone; this could be your chance to flex the new iPhone in 2024.

2 x Galaxy Z Flip5

Arguably the hottest foldable smartphone in the market, 2 winners will also win a Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5. It’s the perfect smartphone for anyone who loves a convenient and portable smartphone with outstanding and unique capabilities.

1 x ASUS TUF Gaming Laptop

Perfect for gamers, the ASUS TUF Gaming Laptop is also up for grabs at the SM Cyberzone Gadget Craze. This powerful and durable laptop is sure to provide you with a top-tier gaming experience every time you play.

2 x Lenovo ThinkPad L14 Gen 4

The Lenovo ThinkPad L14 Gen 4 is a great laptop for practically anyone, but would especially suit business professionals, students, and creative professionals who have a lot on their plates. Get the chance to be one of the 2 lucky winners at the SM Cyberzone Gadget Craze.

3 x ASUS Monitor ROG Strix

3 lucky winners will also take home an ASUS Monitor ROG Strix – a gamechanger with its 2ms response time and 240Hz refresh rates.

10 x Smart E-Load

10 winners will also win Smart E-load worth P5,000 each that you can use for all of your Internet browsing and streaming needs.

Try Your Luck While Christmas Shopping

Are you ready to try your luck and see if you’ll win? Then it’s time to start shopping! Get all of your Christmas shopping done at Cyberzone and SM Malls Online app! Treat yourself for a year well done, and get the chance to win big.

You may submit any number of entries provided you follow the promo mechanics. All you have to do is visit https://eraffle.smsupermalls.com/app and then select your contact type and accomplish the OTP requirements for verification. Then, register with the necessary details, including a clear photo of your receipt. Once submitted, you will be redirected to a Thank You page and get a confirmation email from Cyberzone with the corresponding amount of raffle entries.

Discover the thrill of tech-assured shopping only at Cyberzone. Find us via Store Finder. Join our conversation on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

See Full Promo Mechanics here.

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-181502 Series of 2023.

—

 Join the Cyberzone TikTok Challenge

 The fantastic year-ender doesn’t stop here. There’s a lot more #TechAssured surprises in store for you this festive season (including an iPhone 15, ACER Aspire laptop and more!).

Join the #CyberzoneTikTokChallenge and spice up your TikTok feed with creativity! Show us your awesome Cyberzone shopping experience in a 30-60 sec video! Promo runs from Dec 1 to 26, 2023.

Check out the mechanics and register here.

SM group spreads social good with ‘Christmas Cheers’

SM employee-volunteers from SM CDO Downtown with some of the beneficiaries of Christmas Cheers

 The season of giving is within our midst.

As the world embraces the spirit of Christmas with open arms, SM group employees stepped out of the holiday rush and into the shoes of volunteers, spreading social good through the Christmas Cheers gift-giving initiative.

Spearheaded by SM Foundation and SM Supermalls, the program stood as a testament to the dedication of volunteers to create meaningful contributions and build memories with communities, one act of kindness at a time.

The spirit of Christmas is synonymous with generosity and the joy of giving, and for one individual in Cagayan de Oro, Philippines, this sentiment came to life through their involvement in the Christmas Cheers distribution volunteer program. In a recent interview, a member of the volunteer team shared insights into their motivations, experiences, and the profound impact they witnessed during the holiday season.

 A manifestation of love, kindness

For Carl Maglangit, SM CDO Downtown’s Public Relations Manager, the motivation to join the Christmas Cheers stemmed from a deep-seated belief in Filipino generous culture and how it has a magical way of spreading joy and building a supportive society.

Upon hearing about the opportunity to give back, he promptly embraced the role of coordinating and organizing the program for the community.

“I have always been inspired to someday share my blessings with the community. Now, it has happened and the experience felt magical for me. It taught me the value of generosity and that giving is a manifestation of love and kindness. I am now more empowered in community giving, and with this passion, I can influence other people to do the same,” Carl said.

As the gift-giving activity unfolded, he knew that the beauty of it would resonate with him beyond the holiday season, especially after hearing a message from one of the beneficiaries, PWD and Christmas Cheers recipient Liza Corpuz.

PWD members of the Cagayan de Oro community and their loved ones smile as they receive Christmas Cheers packs from SM group.

Carl narrated: “She felt honored that their sector was chosen as one of the recipients of this program and has gotten the impression that they are acknowledged in the community as equally essential citizens. Previously, she shared that they felt ignored and forgotten and felt terrible that they lacked the opportunity to receive help. Since last year, the Christmas Cheers program has uplifted their spirit to celebrate a merrier yuletide this year. The food packs make one person happy, and the entire family will.”

At the end of the event, Carl saw the strong convergence of the season of giving and Filipino generosity: “The Filipino value of generosity has truly been lived through this activity. I am a firm believer that the true meaning of Christmas is giving. In this season, we will continue to aim to serve our community and give the message of how sharing happiness can uplift each other despite the many challenges we encounter.”

PWD and Christmas Cheers recipient Liza Corpuz expresses her gratitude to the SM group, saying the initiative uplifted their spirits when they felt ignored and forgotten.

Happily spreading cheers

Another SM volunteer who keeps bayanihan alive is Ron Ryan Malitig, an Operation Assistant at SM City Calamba. Like Carl, it was his first-time volunteering to help make Christmas Cheers a memorable experience for the beneficiaries. For him, it’s definitely not the last.

SM City Calamba Asst. Mall Manager Elmundo Olazo lead the distribution of gifts for the elderly member of the community

Having been with the mall for just a month, Ron Ryan discovered the opportunity through the mall’s communication channels. With a burning desire to extend a helping hand, he joined.

“Nothing beats the feeling of knowing that everyone in the community gets to celebrate Christmas with a smile on their faces and hearts. I know that volunteering would allow me to do just that–share my skills and bring genuine happiness to the community we happily serve,” he said.

As the spirit of giving takes center stage, SM group’s employee-volunteers embody the real meaning of celebrating Christmas: giving to others for a kinder, stronger community.

SM City Calamba spreads the Christmas Cheers with the community

Cultural diversity and artistic brilliance were showcased as the 17th Fiesta Folkloriada commenced at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall last December 4, featuring vibrant performances from renowned dance companies across the globe, namely Austria, Indonesia, Poland, South Korea, Spain, and the Philippines. The event is in collaboration between SM Supermalls, the Bayanihan Folk Arts Foundation, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and the Federation of International Dance Festivals.

The heads of delegations and members of renowned international dance companies from Austria, Indonesia, Poland, South Korea, Spain, and the Philippines participate in the opening ceremony of the 17th Fiesta Folkloriada, a showcase of global dance performances.

 The opening ceremony featured a speech by Bayanihan Folk Arts Foundation Executive Director Marielle Javellana, and a local opening ritual involving the heads of delegations and members of renowned international dance companies from the aforementioned six countries.

Bayanihan Folk Arts Foundation Executive Director Marielle Javellana

The heads of delegations from six participating countries—namely Austria, Indonesia, Poland, South Korea, Spain, and the Philippines—participate in a local opening ritual during the 17th Fiesta Folkloriada opening ceremony.

The stage came alive with a glimpse into the soul of Austria through the Trachtrenverein Rossecker Bruck an der Mur. Following suit was Indonesia’s Al-Fath Cirendeu and Sanggita Kencana Budaya who presented Indonesia’s way of life through its dance forms.

Austrian folk group, Trachtrenverein Rossecker Bruck an der Mur

Al-Fath Cirendeu and Sanggita Kencana Budaya from Indonesia

 Meanwhile, Poland’s Folk Group Zbojnicek took the stage next, weaving a narrative of the Polish culture with their spirited performance. The rhythmic beats of South Korea’s Ryu Dance Company delivered a mesmerizing display of the Land of the Morning Calm’s rich heritage. Also, Ballet Ara de Madrid transported the audience to the heart of Spain with their passionate and emotive performance.

Polish dance folk group, Zbojnicek

Ryu Dance Company from South Korea

Ballet Ara de Madrid from Spain

 The pinnacle of the evening arrived with the performance by the Philippines’ very own Bayanihan Dance Company. Their vibrant and energetic showcase of Filipino folk dances displayed the country’s cultural vibrancy and storytelling through dance.

Bayanihan Dance Company, the national folk-dance company of the Philippines, established in 1956 by Dr. Helena Benitez, has garnered recognition both nationally and internationally, earning six Grand prizes in World Dance competitions.

The Philippines’ award-winning national folk-dance company, the Bayanihan Dance Company.

The 17th Fiesta Folkloriada is a testament to the power of dance as it transcends borders and fosters cultural exchange. The week-long journey culminates in a grand finale at the Open-Air Auditorium, Rizal Park Luneta on December 9, Saturday, at 6 PM. The finale promises to be a celebration of global unity and diversity, bringing together the world’s finest dance companies for an unforgettable evening under the stars.

 To know more about the 17th Fiesta Folkloriada and SM Supermalls, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.