SM Foundation’s Kabalikat Sa Kabuhayan works towards a sustainable agri-enterprise creation

 

Smallholder farmers are often beset with economic challenges. Limited market information and market access are two major obstacles they often face in volatile agricultural markets.

Studies show that farmers in grassroots communities often lack access to profitable, value-added markets. In the absence of supporting functions such as infrastructure and service provision – farmers struggle to transform their traditional subsistence farms into a feasible commercially oriented production. Buyers and wholesalers, on the other hand, also find it difficult to get the quantity and quality of products that they need for processing on a timely basis.

Because of this challenge, SM Foundation collaborated with various government agencies and engaged various SM business units such as the SM Development Corp. (SMDC), SM Supermalls, and SM Markets to ensure that local farmers under the Kabalikat Sa Kabuhayan (KSK) program have venues where they can sell their produce amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

From training KSK participants in practicing sustainable farming technologies via technology transfer and product development, SMFI, together with various SM business units used the power of collaboration to create farm-market linkage. Improving market access for smallholder farmers and providing supporting functions helps create a powerful driver of rural poverty reduction.

Team Social Good

The Good Guys Market is a weekend market set up in SMDC properties to connect small-scale farmers directly with consumers—condo residents. This initiative links around 26,000 small-scale farmers directly with consumers.

Together with SM Supermalls, SMFI launched the Green Lane initiative. Led by the wives of the KSK farmers, the social enterprise offers a wide variety of quality yet affordable indoor and landscape plants which cater to every enthusiast’s preference. The additional income from horticulture farming would help improve their household income.

In addition, the team also launched the KSK Farmers’  Market Day to provide farmers with market exposure in select SM Malls nationwide.

SMFI partnered with SM Markets as well in creating a small-scale market for onion farmers. Through this partnership, SMFI was able to establish specialized onion pop-up booths creating a stable market for small-scale onion farmers.

Small-scale farmers are seeking ways to improve the productivity of their farms and to improve their market performance. Modern farming technologies, paired with market linkage, such as the SM KSK, playscale a vital role in improving the livelihood of small-scale farmers and their families.

Foundation’s Kabalikat Sa Kabuhayan (KSK) is SMFI’s Social Good program on sustainable agriculture that intends to uplift the lives of Filipinos in grassroots, communities through sustainable agriculture via technology transfer, product development and farm-market linkage. 

To date, the program has trained more than 28,500 farmers from more than 900 cities/municipalities nationwide

Working together to serve more communities for a sustainable future

 

Solar rooftop at SM City North EDSA

Climate change is one of the most pressing and defining global issues today. It has become imperative for both the public and private sectors to continue to band together to primarily, safeguard the welfare of the people and to step up to strengthen the resilience of the nation.

The Philippines currently ranks third globally when it comes to climate change vulnerability. In relation to its geographical location, it is more exposed to altering intensities of climate change manifested through erratic weather systems and natural calamities.

The private sector is called upon now more than ever to align with the principles of sustainable development and to take on the same firm stance on environmentally sound practices in its operations. 

“I constantly encourage the private sector to work closely with the government. This way, we can be more cohesive in our efforts to make more meaningful progress towards a better and sustainable future. As a private enterprise, SM Prime will continue to do its share in addressing climate change for the benefit of communities. Climate change is looming over our Mother Earth. If we can contribute no matter how little and if I can get everybody to be aware of it, I think we will make an impact. It’s never too late.” ~Hans T. Sy, SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee

Mr. Hans T. Sy

Water Conservation

Sustainability at SM Prime is at the core of its corporate identity. SM Prime has spearheaded sustainable practices as well as set records in pioneering programs to consciously protect the environment and strongly focus on resilience in its developments.

For one, the property conglomerate embarked on a campaign to substantially reduce its water consumption. It pioneered the installation of sewage treatment plants even before the measure was required by way of the Clean Water Act in 2004.

Today, its sewage treatment plants recycle 8.7 million cubic meters of water, lessening its dependence on fresh water sources for air conditioning operations, gardening, water closet flushing and other non-potable uses. SM Prime’s water catchment basins across 20 SM malls can also catch and store almost 79 million liters of water in total every time it rains, or as much as 32 Olympic-sized swimming pools. 

By controlling the flow of flood water, surrounding communities have been provided more protection against the devastating effects of floods, alleviating what communities would normally fear when the rains come.

Renewable energy 

SM Prime continues to explore ways to promote environmental consciousness in its operations and developments to minimize environmental impact.

 

In 2014, SM Prime achieved an important milestone in the country with SM City North EDSA becoming then the world’s largest solar-powered mall. Today, SM Prime is adding eleven more malls with solar roof decks.

Showing its firm resolve to advance its sustainability agenda, the company is committed to increase the use of renewable energy by 50% in 2022 across its various business segments, ahead of the national goals to be 35% renewable by 2030.

Through these efforts, SM Prime is committed to provide affordable and clean energy to its tenant-partners, minimizing the carbon footprint emission in its operations.

Collaboration toward resilience

As a key figure in the private sector, Mr. Sy and his dedication to environmental protection continues to serve as a testament to how Philippine businesses can usher positive change toward disaster resilience and risk reduction management in the country.  

In 2012, Mr. Sy joined the United Nations Private Sector Advisory Group (PSAG) for Disaster Reduction. In 2015, he was also inducted as the first and only Filipino member UNDRR ARISE (Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies) International Board. He currently serves as co-chair in the ARISE-Philippines network and National Resilience Council (NRC) of the Philippines, representing the private sector. He continues to help develop multi-sectoral partnerships in the country to strengthen the ability of corporations, including MSMEs, to prepare and respond to disasters brought about by natural hazards such as earthquake. 

Here’s why #PinoyFreedom is more than just a holiday

In anticipation of the 124^th anniversary of Philippine Independence, SM Supermalls shares why Independence Day is a pivotal turning point in our history.

It is a celebration of our identity as Filipinos. Independence Day represents the core of our beliefs and our identity as Filipinos – a strong and courageous race willing to fight for freedom’s sake. After almost 400 years of colonization, the raising of our flag and the singing of our anthem serves as more than an obligation; it commemorates the heroism embodied by every Filipino who fought for our freedom. This June 12, 2022 at 8:30 am, come in colors of the Philippine flag and head to the SM Supermalls’ Flag Raising Ceremony as we show love of our country and pay our respects to those who fought to protect it. 

 

It is a celebration of our rich and diverse culture. Each year, the month of June encourages us to exhibit our country’s rich culture in many different ways. Whether it be through food, fashion, or art, all 18 regions across the Philippines have so much to offer! At an SM mall near you, enjoy a taste of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao’s diverse cultures through Pinoy Eats and Pinoy Buys until June 12, 2022. 

 

It is a celebration of our love for the country. Putting the country above one’s self is a great honor and responsibility. As Filipinos, it is our duty to keep the flame of patriotism alive by learning Philippine culture and history, to cultivate in us a sense of community and accountability towards our Filipino brothers and sisters. Visit SM City Cebu’s HeroiSM phygital exhibit until June 15, 2022 to explore Philippine history in an #AweSM way!

 

Celebrate #PinoyFreedom at SM Supermalls!

While we each exude patriotism in our own way, one cannot ignore the pride and enjoyment that comes with Philippine Independence Day celebrations! Commemorate Independence Day in a truly Pinoy way— sumptuous food, the company of loved ones, and great deals on all things local!

At SM Supermalls, activities are lined up to keep #PinoyFreedom alive nationwide! So come and celebrate the #AweSM and historic Philippine Independence Day at an SM mall near you.

For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com or like and follow @smsupermalls on all social media platforms.

Stand Proud and Celebrate Being Filipino with SM Supermalls

 

As our national hero, Jose Rizal once said, ‘He who does not know how to look back at where he came from will never get to his destination.’ Tracing one’s roots is important to building one’s character. It is crucial to keep your feet on the ground as you reach greater heights. The same rings true for all Filipinos; we cannot truly appreciate the freedom we enjoy today without being aware of what our ancestors have fought for to gain our independence.

To celebrate Philippine Independence Day, SM Supermalls will be holding major events to commemorate this national holiday and encourage Pinoys to further embrace Filipino culture.

Join SM Supermalls’ Flag Raising Ceremony

Show your love of country and value the sacrifices of the Filipinos who died protecting and defending it. Come in colors of the Philippine flag and head to SM Supermalls’ Flag Raising Ceremony on June 12, 2022 – assembly time is at 8:30am. Give it the utmost importance, as this is the thread that knits Filipinos together from one generation to the next.

Indulge yourself with the best Pinoy Eats

As a champion of local MSMEs, SM Supermalls will spoil you with Filipino cuisine options and other local products from June 1-12. Savor the diverse and rich Filipino food offerings and have a taste of the best Pinoy dishes and treats from every region of the country. Enjoy special promotions during this period when you order your favorite Pinoy Eats on-ground or when ordering online.

Buy Local, Buy Pinoy

Support local businesses, and buy fresh local produce and other specialty items from SM’s affiliates and tenants through the Buy Pinoy pop-up stores. Shop the best locally-made clothes, souvenirs, décor, and food brought to you by only the best Filipino businesses from June 1 to June 12, 2022.

“SM Supermalls have always celebrated Pinoy pride through various events where we get to appreciate our culture and express our gratitude to the heroes of past and present. Our Philippine Independence Day should never be taken for granted, because holding our national pride and heritage in high regard is what makes us true-blooded Filipinos through and through. We encourage everyone to join us as we celebrate freedom at SM Supermalls” Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls, said. 

For #SafeMallingAtSM, you can follow SM Supermalls on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or check out the mall entry guidelines and updates on mall hours here. You can also view the complete SM Directory here.

SM: Creating shared value through tech-voc education

One of the flagship programs of SM Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the SM group, is its scholarship program. Aside from the college education offerings, the program also provides venues for students who would like to pursue a career in the skilled labor industry.

The gradual reopening of economy not just in the country, but around the world, brings hope to more job opportunities for Filipinos who lost their jobs because of the health crisis. Indeed, the support for individuals eyeing to be part of the skilled industry is needed now more than ever.

SM tech-voc scholar alumnus Anthony Andales

It was in this light when SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), together with SM Foundation (SMFI), Don Bosco One TVET Phils. Inc., and the city government of Pasay partnered to give educational support to 20 deserving youth coming from Pasay. To date, SMFI has already produced more than 4,500 tech-voc graduates who are now gainfully employed.

A dream to be fulfilled

One of the current SM tech-voc scholars from Pasay is Stephen Parina. His dream is to put up his own automotive shop since aside from his interest in cars and motorcycles, he intends to uplift the economic status of his family. Both of his parents are temporary employees at the Pasay City Hall.

SM-Pasay tech-voc scholar Stephen Parina

“Nakita ko sa Facebook post ng SM Foundation na nandun ang aking gustong course kaya dali-dali akong pumunta sa city hall ng Pasay para alamin ang mga detalye nito at kinabukasan ay nagpasa na ako agad ng mga requirements,” said Stephen, who is now studying Automotive Mechanic course at the Don Bosco Makati.

“Gusto kong matuto kung paano mag ayos ng mga sasakyan at makatapos ng pag-aaral dahil hirap kami sa aming pamumuhay. Alam ko na makakatulong ang edukasyon, kagaya ng techvoc upang matupad ang aking pangarap na makapagpatayo ng sarili kong automotive shop. Magiging susi ito upang mai-angat ko ang antas ng pamumuhay ng aking pamilya” he added.

Hands on training of SM tech-voc scholars

SM-Pasay tech-voc scholar Jeorge Angelo Madrid

“Taos pusong pasasalamat sa SM at sa Sy family dahil nabigyan nyo ako ng pagkakataon na makabalik muli sa pag aaral. Hinding hindi ko ito malilimutan. Dadalhin ko ito hanggang sa aking pag tanda,” Stephen said.

Ticket to success

Another current tech-voc scholar is Jeorge Angelo Madrid. He is also studying Automotive Mechanic course at the Don Bosco Makati. His father works as a painter of houses and buildings while his mother works at the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Jeorge is the youngest and most of his five siblings already have their own families.

According to Jeorge, he sees this opportunity of going back to school as his ticket towards achieving his dreams: “Nag-apply ako sa SM Foundation kasi wla po akong kakayahan na makapag aral at makapagtapos. Wala po akong pagkukuhanan ng pang tuition para maipang bayad sa eskwelahan.”

Jeorge is adamant to find a gainful employment right after he finish his studies. “Salamat po sa SM Foundation. Kung hindi dahil sa inyo, hindi madaragdagan ang kaalaman ko tungkol sa automotive. Magagamit ko ito sa aking paghahanap ng trabaho at kinalaunan, masuportahan ang aking sarili, mga pamangkin at ang aking mga magulang,” Jeorge further shared.

Reaping the fruits of his efforts

Anthony Andales, an SM tech-voc scholar alumnus, also took the time to share his inspiring story. He graduated from the Dualtech Training Center in 2019 and is now employed as a staff technician in a known company which manufactures various electronic products for home and office use.

“Bago ako mag-training sa Dualtech, nagtrabaho muna ako bilang isang helper sa isang refilling station. Ang aking arawang sweldo ay P220 lamang. Akala ko dati, wala na akong mararating sa buhay at hindi na makapagtatapos ng pag-aaral,” Anthony recalled.

“But God gave me the privilege to be chosen as one of the SM Foundation scholars para makapag-aral ako nang walang binayaran kahit piso. Ang tanging puhunan ko lang ay ang aking lakas ng loob at ang aking mga pangarap sa buhay na balang araw, makatutulong ako sa aking pamilya upang kahit papano ay makaahon sa buhay,” he further added.

Right after his on-the-job training, he was absorbed by the program’s OJT- partner company and was given a job as a staff technician because of his skills and work ethic. 

“Napagawa na namin ang bahay kahit papaano, hindi man bato pero at least maayos at safe kapag may bagyo. Hindi po kagaya dati na pag umuulan ay may pa-shower kami kasi butas-butas na ang bubong at tagpi-tagpi ang dingding ng aming tahanan. Walang imposible kapag ikaw ay may pangarap at determinasyon upang maabot ito sapagkat maraming tao at institusyon na handang tumulong. Kaya sobrang thankful po talaga ako sa mga taong tumulong sa akin para magkaroon ng maliwanag na kinabukasan.” Anthony concluded.

SM Foundation, through its Scholarship program, provides deserving and qualified students with access to college education and technical-vocational studies since 1993.

Jimini Foods Group Earmarks 100 Stores in Central Luzon Hub Opening

 

Jimini Foods Group recently inaugurated its Jimini Concepts PAMPANGA Business Support Central Luzon Office along Friendship Highway in Pampanga to service its Central Luzon store network expansion as it aims to open at least 100 stores in the year 2022-2023 in the region.  

Jimini Foods Group is the largest pizza network in the country with over 1,300 serving stations nationwide, the country’s leader in Pizza Kiosk Franchising, Entrepreneur Philippines’ Hall of Fame Awardee, and recognized as the 2018 AGORA Marketing Excellence Awardee for Large Enterprise. 

With over 25 years of business excellence and award-winning brands under its belt (Jimini Chicago Style Pizza, Jimini Pizza Bar, Pizza Pedrico’s, Santino’s Supreme Slice Pizza, and Bogels N.Y.), Jimini Concepts Inc. is a solid and reliable partner for new and experienced entrepreneurs all over the country who wants to be part of a successful and proven franchise network. 

With Clark, Angeles, and San Fernando as major business hubs, the region is now paving the roadmap to success with its growing industries, aggressive and solid infrastructure projects, airport, and expanding economic processing zones. On top of that, the bourgeoning entertainment and leisure possibilities with more and more malls and destinations opening and setting up to open.

 

Shown here during its dedication are (from left) Rollie Teologo, Luzon Business Support Center Lead; Joey Mayuga, National Business Development Group Lead; Kerwin Tansekiao, Managing Director & Chief Steward; Aris Corpuz Central Luzon Business Support center Lead & Jo Garde, COO for ICON Brands

Driven by passion, innovation, excellence, love for people, and a divine purpose to focus on where the Lord leads, Jimini Concepts Inc. may just be your best partner to grow your dough in franchising with their award-winning brands PIZZA PEDRICOS and SANTINO’S SUPREME SLICE at the best locations in Pampanga, Tarlac, Bulacan and Bataan regions.

For franchising inquiries in select prime locations, please see us at the Jimini Concepts PAMPANGA Business Support Center to start a delicious business venture that will surely Bring Smiles to your community!

CALL: 0925-511-9444

SEE US & VISIT: Blk 8 Lot 4&5, Fil-am Friendship Hi-way, Sto. Domingo, Angeles City

Cleen and Green Cleaning Services for all-around home cleaning

Cleen and Green Cleaning Services have always stood above the rest by providing all-around home cleaning - deep cleaning services, post-construction intensive cleaning, as well as car interior detailing while putting customers in priority at the convenience of their home, observing eco-friendly all-natural practices, using plant-based cleaning agents and modern pro cleaning technology.

As part of their customer first priority principle, Cleen and Green are now offering free cockroach management for the entire month of June for every deep house cleaning starting this month as they celebrate their second year anniversary!

Clean and Green Cleaning Services approaches another year of high-quality professional eco-friendly home service deep cleaning, and has seen vast expansion, sprouting new franchises and branches from humble beginnings. Cleen and Green skyrockets in advancement with the ecstatic support of the community, currently located in Batangas,Cavite, Laguna, and Quezon City, and most recently opened branch in Makati.

Cleen and Green’s newest franchise owners, Marvin Joseph Amante and Desiree Castillo, an amazing power couple managing Cleen and Green’s new Makati branch, watch as they lead the brand uphill towards success!

Every day, Cleen and Green is getting closer to their vision of becoming the top-rated cleaning service nationwide. Cleen and Green stand tall moving forward in its mission towards innovative quality green service, constantly growing and committed to expanding and growing the business.

Proving only their enthusiasm with a new branch opened in Makati. Happy 2nd Year anniversary Cleen and Green!

Follow them on their FB: https://www.facebook.com/cleenandgreencleaningservices

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cleenandgreencleaningservices?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Website: http://cleenandgreen.com/

Sarah G. and Hanabishi Share Tips on How to Score the Best Deals in Lazada and Shopee’s 6.6 Sales

When it comes to enjoying the best deals during Lazada and Shopee’s monthly sales, it’s best to keep in mind these three tips by Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo and Hanabishi Appliances.

“Simple, practical tips na madaling tandaan (Simple, practical tips that are easy to remember),” the brand ambassador of Hanabishi said.

The leading appliance manufacturer will be offering great discounts in the 6.6 sales of online shopping giants Lazada and Shopee, which will run from June 6 to 8.

1. Add items to your cart before the sale starts. “Days before the sale period, make a list of the items that you need and search for them. Add the products you plan to buy to your cart, so that you can easily check them out once the sale starts,” Sarah said. At both Lazada and Shopee, Hanabishi will be offering up to 18 percent discount on some of its popular products. 2. Allot a budget. As you add items to your cart, you can already gauge how much you will be spending. If you go over your allotted budget, search for similar items that are much more affordable. “Mas maganda na meron kang alternatives just in case ma-sold out agad ‘yung gusto mo (It’s better to have alternatives just in case the items you want gets sold out),” Sarah advised. 3. Watch for special deals. On top of discounted prices, stores usually offer additional deals like free shipping and further discounts. Hanabishi products, for example, can be bought at further discounts using Lazada vouchers. The appliance manufacturer will also be offering items at 25 percent discount during its flash sales. Its flexicombo deal, meanwhile, gives you the chance to enjoy PhP50 off when you buy two products. It will also be having the same flexicombo deal in its Shopee store and give away PhP50 and free shipping vouchers. 4. Check out early. “Make sure you complete your transactions as early as possible. May mga tao na nagche-checkout pagdating ng 12 midnight kasi ayaw nilang maubusan nang gusto nilang bilhin (There are people who check out as early 12 midnight to make sure that they don’t run out of the products they want),” Sarah said. Online stores also sometimes offer further discounts during the first hours of the sale.

“Sales are good opportunities for you to buy the products that you have been coveting for a long while. At Hanabishi’s official stores on LazMall, you can find a wide variety of more affordable home and kitchen appliances during the 6.6 sale,” said Cherish Ong-Chua, VP for Finance and Marketing of Hanabishi Appliances.

To learn more about Hanabishi’s latest products and promotions, follow its official Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. You can also visit www.myhanabishi.com for more information about its products.