Accessing Free Cancer Treatment: WeHope Medical Group Chemotherapy Centers Expand in Laguna

One of the most pressing socio-economic challenges facing the province of Laguna has long been the equitable expansion of healthcare services, particularly ensuring that quality medical care is both geographically and financially accessible to all residents. Recognizing that a robust healthcare system is the backbone of a thriving community, the newly elected governor positioned public health as the definitive cornerstone of her administration. Throughout her three-year term, her primary advocacy has focused heavily on modernizing and strengthening Laguna's medical infrastructure.

To turn this vision into reality without overextending provincial resources, the governor adopted a highly strategic approach: pioneering aggressive public-private partnerships (PPPs) and fostering deep collaborations with the national government. By aligning provincial health goals with national programs—such as the Universal Health Care (UHC) act—and actively courting private sector investment, the administration has successfully bridged critical funding and operational gaps.

Gov. Sol Aragones of Laguna (in pink) and WeHope Medical Group's CEO, Dr. JP Aclan (in blue)

The governor’s unwavering dedication and clear regulatory roadmap have sent a strong signal of stability and cooperation to the business community. This pro-active governance has effectively de-risked investments in the local healthcare landscape, encouraging major private healthcare providers to inject capital into the province. As a direct result of these partnerships, Laguna has seen a rapid decentralization of specialized medical services—such as oncology and specialized cancer care—bringing world-class treatment directly to local communities and significantly reducing the burden of travel for vulnerable patients.

One of the companies that heeded the governor's call is the WeHope Medical Group, a fast-growing Philippine healthcare network led by CEO Dr. John Paul Aclan. The group specializes in making life-saving treatments, such as chemotherapy and dialysis, accessible to local communities—often offering free services to qualified patients through partnerships with local government units (LGUs) and PhilHealth programs.

This is where you can find WeHope's chemotherapy centers in Laguna, offering FREE treatment for everyone, regardless of whether you are a resident of the province or not.

Sta. Cruz, Laguna

A bright new dawn of healing has arrived in Laguna. On April 8, 2026, WeHope Medical Group opened its first-ever branch in the province - the Sta. Cruz Chemotherapy Center, establishing Laguna’s very first chemotherapy center right at the heart of the Laguna Medical Center in Sta. Cruz.

With Governor Sol Aragones and her dedicated medical team standing in full support, this milestone is much more than just a new facility—it is the living promise of a better tomorrow made real for every Lagunense. For so many families who once faced the daunting battle of cancer with limited options, this center stands as a beacon of light, proving that high-quality, compassionate care is finally within reach, right at home.

Sta. Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas (in red) and WeHope Medical Group's CEO, Dr. JP Aclan (in white)

Sta. Rosa City, Laguna

On April 20, 2026, the AML Life Care Chemotherapy Center officially opened at One Sta. Rosa Prime in Barangay Dila, Sta. Rosa City. The milestone event was graced by Sta. Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Barangay Dila Captain Raymond Fortunado. Mayor Arcillas warmly welcomed the initiative, expressing great hope that bringing these life-changing medical services directly to the city will provide vital support and relief to her constituents.

San Pablo City, Laguna

Hope found a new home in San Pablo City with the opening of the AML Life Care Chemotherapy Center inside the San Pablo City General Hospital last April 28, 2026. The heart-winning event was graced by Laguna Governor Sol Aragones and her dedicated team of medical doctors, all united in their mission to bring healing closer to those who need it most.

Understanding that fighting cancer is an emotional and financial battle for the entire family, the provincial government prepared a half-sack of rice for every single patient undergoing treatment at the facility. It is a humble, deeply compassionate gesture meant to provide comfort and ease the heavy burdens of their illness, reminding every brave patient that they do not have to walk this difficult journey alone.

Cabuyao City, Laguna

AML Life Care Chemotherapy Center was opened in Barangay Banlic last May 1, 2026. The facility promises a relaxing, friendly, and welcoming atmosphere to ensure patients are comfortable as they undergo treatment. Just like the previously established facilities, it features 20 seats and can accommodate at least 40 patients a day.

Clean, aesthetic, relaxing : AML LifeCare Chemotherapy Center's lounge for patients and visitors

Bay, Laguna

One of the primary goals of Laguna's new administration is to expand medical services across all hospitals operated by the provincial government. On May 8, 2026, this vision advanced further with the establishment of the AML Life Care Chemotherapy Center inside the Bay District Hospital. Governor Sol Aragones and her team of medical professionals were present to mark this significant milestone for the community.

Canlubang, Calamba, Laguna

A newly built chemotherapy center can also be found at the Turista Hotel inside iMall Canlubang. Canlubang Chemotherapy Center was officially opened on May 28, 2026. This location is highly accessible for patients, as it is situated near major transport hubs and positioned within a commercial area where food, pharmacy items, and other essential needs are readily available.

Canlubang Chemotherapy Center in iMall Canlubang, inside Turista Hotel

Famy, Laguna

On June 16, 2026, the Famy Chemotherapy Center officially opened inside iMall Famy, located in a fourth-class municipality in the northeastern part of Laguna. Because the facility is situated right on the border of Quezon Province—specifically near the town of Real—residents from Quezon may also have the opportunity to avail themselves of the free treatments if needed.

WeHope Medical Group aims to open more branches in Biñan and San Pedro, with the ultimate goal of bringing its services to every town and city across the entire province of Laguna. For inquiries, you may reach out to them through the official WeHope Medical Group Facebook page.

Manulife Named #1 Life Insurer for AI Maturity for Second Consecutive Year by Evident

Underscoring its aggressive strategic evolution into an AI-powered enterprise, Manulife has achieved historic recognition in the newly released 2026 Evident AI Index for Insurance.

For the second consecutive year, Manulife has been named the #1 Life Insurance Company globally for AI maturity. Accelerating its trajectory from previous years, the firm has also captured the #1 spot in Canada across all insurance categories, climbed to #1 globally in the AI Leadership category, and secured a remarkable #3 position overall among the world's leading insurers.

These prestigious accolades serve as powerful validation of Manulife’s ability to scale artificial intelligence across its vast global footprint. By embedding AI into the core fabric of its business, the company is driving measurable enterprise value, optimizing operational efficiencies, and radically redefining the experience for its customers, colleagues, and shareholders.

Driving Billions in Enterprise Value

Manulife’s AI initiatives are not merely experimental prototypes; they are disciplined, scaled business solutions tied directly to financial performance.

“We are incredibly proud of these rankings, which validate our refreshed enterprise strategy and our unwavering commitment to being an AI-powered organization,” said Phil Witherington, President and CEO of Manulife. “As we scale these technologies globally, our focus remains on disciplined execution and responsible deployment. We are on track to generate more than $1 billion in enterprise value by 2027, having already achieved $300 million as of year-end 2025. This proves our approach is delivering tangible, bottom-line impact while making insurance more accessible and efficient.”

Unmatched Deployment and Global Scale

According to Evident’s independent analysis, Manulife has disclosed the deployment of more active AI use cases than any other insurer included in the Index. This aggressive, outcome-oriented implementation spans multiple regions and business units:

• Canada: The Manulife Automated Underwriting Decision Engine (MAUDE) now automatically processes over half of all eligible individual life insurance applications. MAUDE slashes turnaround times, delivering instant decisions in as little as two minutes for qualified applicants.

• United States: John Hancock’s Quick Quote platform utilizes advanced algorithms to radically simplify and accelerate the life insurance quoting journey, transforming consumer onboarding.

• Global Wealth & Asset Management: A sophisticated suite of AI-enabled tools has been integrated into portfolios to deepen market insights, enhance predictive analytics, and optimize complex investment decision-making.

• Asia: Manulife has deployed specialized AI capabilities ranging from automated claims management and digital underwriting to AI-driven virtual assistants for distribution partners, creating deeply personalized customer experiences.

Benchmarking AI Maturity in Insurance

The annual Evident AI Index for Insurance is widely regarded as the gold standard for benchmarking corporate AI adoption. It rigorously assesses 30 of the most prominent insurance institutions across North America and Europe, evaluating them across four pillars:

Evaluation Pillar	Manulife's Performance Highlights
Leadership	Ranked #1 Globally. Cites consistent executive-level engagement, clear strategic vision, and significant industry-wide influence.
Transparency	Highly commended for public accountability, robust reporting methodologies, and setting industry standards for AI disclosures.
Talent	Recognized for aggressive workforce development, including a 41% year-on-year increase in dedicated AI talent.
Innovation	Celebrated for translating R&D into scaled, revenue-generating, and cost-saving operational workflows.

As the insurance sector transitions rapidly from foundational capability-building to high-stakes optimization, the bar for the 2026 Index was significantly higher. Manulife's upward mobility underscores its structural readiness for the next generation of computing.

Responsibility and Execution at the Core

A critical differentiator for Manulife is its rigorous approach to AI governance. As the technology becomes ubiquitous, safeguarding data and ensuring ethical deployment remain paramount.

“This recognition reflects the deliberate, systematic way we are scaling AI's impact across the entire company,” noted Jodie Wallis, Global Chief AI Officer at Manulife. “Our focus is entirely on practical applications that yield measurable outcomes. Crucially, this is underpinned by a strong governance framework that is increasingly automated and seamlessly embedded into our development lifecycle. Evolving from simple adoption to consistent, enterprise-wide execution is what sets our teams apart.”

Industry observers have taken note of Manulife’s unique willingness to tie its AI strategy to concrete financial metrics—a rarity in the financial services sector.

“Manulife's second consecutive year at the top of the life insurance rankings reflects its uncanny ability to build AI capacity around the workflows that matter most,” stated Alexandra Mousavizadeh, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Evident. “By growing their AI talent pool by 41% year-on-year and embedding a deeply scalable architecture, they are fundamentally improving customer access and long-term relationships. Furthermore, being among a very select few insurers to transparently publish both realized and projected financial returns demonstrates the absolute robustness of Manulife’s internal metrics.”

Looking Ahead

Guided by its forward-looking Enterprise Strategy and a strict set of Responsible AI Principles, Manulife is successfully dismantling traditional operational bottlenecks. By empowering its advisors with sharper insights, freeing colleagues from administrative burdens, and providing clients with rapid, intuitive digital experiences, Manulife is setting the definitive blueprint for the modern, AI-first financial institution.

To explore Manulife’s ongoing AI journey, research, and technical milestones, please visit manulife.com/AI.

The complete 2026 Evident AI Insurance Index report, including detailed company scorecards and full methodology, is available directly at evidentinsights.com.

Grand Westside Manila Bay Celebrates Two Years of Hospitality with “Chapter Two”

Grand Westside Manila Bay proudly marks its second anniversary with the launch of Chapter Two, a month-long celebration dedicated to premium dining, leisure, and lifestyle experiences. This milestone campaign reflects the hotel’s ongoing journey of creating deeply memorable moments for its guests, families, friends, and the vibrant community it serves.

Since first opening its doors, Grand Westside Manila Bay has welcomed travelers from all corners of the globe, rapidly establishing itself as a premier hospitality destination along the scenic Manila Bay. Formally recognized as the largest hotel in the Philippines with an impressive inventory of 1,530 rooms, the property consistently earns stellar reviews across major global travel platforms. These accolades stand as a testament to the team's unwavering commitment to service excellence, modern comfort, and exceptional guest satisfaction.

"Our second anniversary represents a deeply meaningful milestone for all of us at Grand Westside Manila Bay," stated Joe Xavier Fijardo, General Manager. "In just two short years, we have had the privilege of welcoming thousands of guests, celebrating major milestones alongside our community, and building lasting relationships with our partners and team members. 'Chapter Two' is our sincere way of thanking everyone who has been an integral part of our journey, while warmly inviting them to create brand-new memories with us."

A Culinary Journey Across Distinct Concepts

At the absolute heart of this month-long celebration are the hotel’s diverse dining and leisure destinations, each offering a uniquely curated culinary experience:

• Café by Westside: The hotel's premier all-day dining culinary hub, serving an expansive selection of international buffet favorites and beloved comfort dishes.

• LaMeza: A specialty restaurant showcasing contemporary Filipino cuisine, beautifully inspired by rich local flavors and time-honored culinary traditions.

• Zabana Bar: A sophisticated yet relaxed setting perfectly suited for artisanal cocktails, light refreshments, and engaging conversations.

• The Plunge: A vibrant outdoor poolside venue offering refreshing drinks and casual dining under the sun.

• Quick To Go: The ideal stop for guests on the move, featuring premium coffee, fresh pastries, and convenient grab-and-go options.

"Food has an extraordinary power to connect people, mark celebrations, and forge lifelong memories," remarked Chef Christopher Lugtu, Executive Chef of Grand Westside Manila Bay. "For Chapter Two, we designed experiences that intentionally bring people together—whether that means sharing a leisurely breakfast, enjoying an intimate dinner, catching up over drinks, or simply pausing for a coffee break during a busy day. While every outlet possesses its own distinct personality, they all share a singular goal: delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests."

Exclusive Anniversary Offers (June 22 – July 21, 2026)

To celebrate this milestone, Grand Westside Manila Bay invites patrons to indulge in limited-time promotions available across its dining and leisure facilities:

1. Come Back for More: Breakfast Receipt Rewards

Guests who enjoy the morning buffet at Café by Westside are automatically entitled to exclusive, same-day dining privileges. Simply present your breakfast receipt to receive 25% off the total bill for lunch or 20% off the total bill for dinner, valid exclusively on the day of breakfast consumption.

2. A Table for Two: Signature Surf & Turf Experience

Savor an elevated culinary journey at LaMeza, featuring a specially curated Surf & Turf set menu priced at PHP 2,200 per person. Guests can further enhance their dining experience with a premium wine upgrade for just PHP 622 per person, which includes two glasses of select house wine.

3. Swim. Sip. Savor.

Engineered for ultimate relaxation, this curated leisure package is available for PHP 1,500 per person. The package includes full day-access to the swimming pool, a PHP 700 consumable food and beverage credit, and a complimentary signature cocktail or mocktail to enjoy at The Plunge.

4. Extended Happy Hour at Zabana Bar

Unwind after a busy day with an extended happy hour. Guests can take advantage of a Buy 2, Get 1 Free promotion on selected handcrafted cocktails, available daily from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Zabana Bar.

5. Coffee Break at Quick To Go

Perfect for a midday indulgence, guests who buy any two pastries will receive one complimentary coffee. This special offer is available daily throughout the anniversary period and applies exclusively to takeout orders.

Embracing the Next Chapter

As Grand Westside Manila Bay steps into its future, Chapter Two embodies the hotel's enduring dedication to warm Filipino hospitality, meaningful guest engagement, and superb culinary craftsmanship. Beyond merely celebrating the achievements of the past two years, this campaign serves as an open invitation for travelers and food enthusiasts alike to become a part of the hotel’s evolving story.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information regarding the Chapter Two anniversary offers, please contact the hotel directly:

• Phone: +63 917 120 2815

• Email: dine@grandwestsidemanila.com

• Website: www.grandwestsidemanila.com

Note to Editor: About Grand Westside Manila Bay

Grand Westside Manila Bay stands as one of the largest hotels in the Philippines, boasting over 1,500 meticulously designed rooms and suites situated in the heart of Westside City, Parañaque. Tailored to meet the needs of both discerning business travelers and leisure seekers, the property features contemporary accommodations, versatile meeting and event spaces, state-of-the-art wellness facilities, and an eclectic array of dining options.

Guests can explore a world of flavors at Café by Westside, famous for its inclusive, halal-certified buffet offerings, or delve into modern local gastronomy at LaMeza. For casual meetings, Zabana Bar provides a comfortable backdrop, while The Plunge delivers an energetic outdoor atmosphere overlooking the pool. Conveniently located just minutes away from Entertainment City, the SM Mall of Asia, and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), Grand Westside Manila Bay seamlessly blends accessible luxury with world-class hospitality.

Fintech Philippines: eTap Marks 11 Years of Financial Inclusion

More than a decade ago, a stark divide characterized the Philippine economic landscape. Physical distance, tedious paperwork, and a scarcity of traditional bank branches kept modern financial services entirely out of reach for millions of Filipinos, particularly those in rural and underserved communities. Cash was king, but it was also a barrier to the burgeoning digital world. Today, Electronic Transfer & Advance Processing Inc. (eTap Inc.) stands as a critical pillar of the nation’s financial infrastructure, celebrating over eleven years of bridging the gap between cash and the digital economy.

Founded on June 25, 2015, by Chairman Percy Hernandez and Chief Executive Officer Marlon Portugal, eTap began its journey as a homegrown fintech challenger powered by just two employees and a bold vision. Over the last eleven years, it has matured into a formidable nationwide force of more than 1,000 employees operating across over 70 regional offices. Through this rapid expansion, eTap has established itself as the country's premier authority in self-service financial technology.

Powering the 'Phygital' Shift

At the absolute core of eTap's mission is the concept of the "phygital" economy—a seamless integration where physical cash transactions meet digital finance. While mobile wallets and digital banking have skyrocketed in popularity, a vast segment of the population still relies on physical currency. eTap acts as the vital gateway for this unbanked and underbanked population to digitize their hard-earned cash, allowing them to participate fully in the modern financial ecosystem.

The company's robust institutional footprint relies on a network of more than 7,000 self-service cash and transaction machines strategically deployed nationwide. Rather than forcing customers to travel long distances to urban centers, eTap places its technology in everyday, highly accessible locations. Found in neighborhood supermarkets, pharmacies, convenience stores, and local bakeries, these self-service kiosks extend a financial lifeline directly to remote provinces. To date, eTap’s technology has served over 16 million unique customers, providing frictionless, reliable avenues to pay utility bills, top up mobile and digital wallets, and access essential services.

An Integrated Ecosystem for Business Growth

Beyond consumer convenience, eTap serves as an institutional multiplier for corporate partners, utility providers, and major financial institutions. By integrating with eTap's expansive self-service network, enterprises can dramatically scale their physical footprint without the massive capital overhead required to build and staff traditional brick-and-mortar payment centers. Over 800 partner billers currently leverage the platform to streamline their collection processes, reduce operational friction, and elevate the overall consumer experience.

This end-to-end capability relies on a structured ecosystem powered by two core sister companies. The first subsidiary, eTap Solutions Inc., acts as the primary operator of these cash and payment transaction machines, bringing financial inclusion directly to underserved communities. Working in tandem, the second sister company, eTap Technologies Inc., focuses on the engineering and design of custom hardware and software solutions, ensuring that the platform remains agile and responsive to shifting market demands.

Ironclad Security and Compliance

Operating at such a massive national scale requires unwavering consumer and corporate trust. As a registered Operator of Payment Systems (OPS) regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), eTap maintains a rigorous focus on data protection, regulatory compliance, and operational reliability.

To ensure an impregnable ecosystem, the company has achieved three prestigious International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certifications:

ISO 27001:2022 (Information Security Management System): Validates that eTap maintains world-class defenses and rigorous protocols against evolving cyber and data threats.

ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management System): Guarantees high-performing operational standards, systemic efficiency, and continuous service improvement.

ISO 27701:2019 (Privacy Information Management System): Confirms an absolute corporate commitment to safeguarding consumer data privacy in alignment with global best practices.

Looking to the Future

Marking its 11th year of operations, eTap has introduced a refreshed, sleek brand identity that reflects its evolution from a simple kiosk provider into a future-ready financial leader. Today, eTap offers a fully integrated, comprehensive ecosystem that combines customizable hardware, advanced proprietary software, and end-to-end cash management and operational support.

Alongside its technological and commercial growth, the company remains deeply dedicated to its social compact. eTap actively funds educational scholarships for the children of its workforce and conducts annual corporate social responsibility initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized sectors. As the Philippine financial landscape continues to digitize, eTap Inc. remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that technological progress leaves no one behind, standing firmly as the self-service bridge that connects every Filipino to economic opportunity.

To learn more about eTap Inc. and its financial solutions, visit their official website at
https://www.etap.com.ph/.

Official Launch of Masigasig Herbal Juice: Premium All-Natural Wellness Drink for Everyday Vitality

Masigasig Distribution and Logistics Inc. (MDLI) proudly announces the official launch of Masigasig Herbal Juice, a premium all-natural wellness drink developed to support energy, vitality, stamina, and overall health. Carefully crafted over two years of intensive research, formulation, and product development, Masigasig Herbal Juice reflects the company’s commitment to providing safe, high-quality, and nature-based wellness solutions for Filipino consumers.

Manufactured by Aim High Tolling Solutions Inc., a trusted partner in food supplement production, Masigasig Herbal Juice is produced under strict quality control standards to ensure safety, consistency, and effectiveness. From the earliest concept stage to the final formulation, the product was developed with a strong focus on blending natural ingredients that work together to promote daily wellness.

The development of Masigasig Herbal Juice spanned from 2024 to 2026, with extensive work dedicated to premium ingredient sourcing, laboratory testing, and formulation refinement. Every component was carefully selected for its traditional wellness benefits and nutritional value. The product is made using a specialized dry blending method, a process that helps preserve the potency and natural properties of each herbal extract. This method also ensures that every single sachet delivers a consistent and reliable serving.

Powered by Natural Ingredients for Premium Wellness Support

Masigasig Herbal Juice contains a thoughtfully selected blend of premium natural ingredients known for their role in supporting cellular energy, active endurance, and general health:

Watermelon

Provides deep hydration and contains powerful antioxidants alongside essential nutrients that support systemic health.

Maca Root

A time-tested botanical traditionally used to support sustained stamina, energy production, and physical libido.

Ashwagandha

A well-known natural adaptogen included for its potential to help the body manage daily stress while improving physical endurance and athletic performance.

Saw Palmetto

Commonly associated with supporting targeted prostate health and reproductive wellness.

Ginseng

Widely recognized for its biological role in fighting fatigue, boosting mental focus, and promoting stamina.

Horny Goat Weed

Frequently linked to supporting physical vitality and circulatory wellness.

Stevia

Utilized as an organic, plant-derived, zero-calorie sweetener to provide a crisp, pleasant taste without added sugar or glycemic spikes.

This unique combination makes Masigasig Herbal Juice a highly convenient and natural choice for individuals looking to easily incorporate a premium wellness drink into their busy daily lifestyles.

Designed for Men’s Vitality and Women’s Daily Wellness

While Masigasig Herbal Juice is specially formulated to target the unique wellness needs of men—particularly in supporting vitality, physical stamina, and performance—it is equally suitable for women seeking natural daily support for energy, metabolic health, and overall vigor. Its versatile formulation makes it a practical wellness option for all adults who want an efficient routine powered by nature.

Preparing the herbal drink is fast and easy. Users simply dissolve one sachet in 200 to 250 ml of cold or room temperature water and drink it once a day. This simple preparation makes Masigasig Herbal Juice ideal for active individuals who require a streamlined way to prioritize health alongside a balanced diet.

FDA-Approved Quality and Safety You Can Trust

One of the strongest competitive advantages of Masigasig Herbal Juice is its unyielding commitment to quality and consumer safety. The formula is 100% all-natural, safe, and fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This certification reflects MDLI’s dedication to strict international standards for product safety, transparent labeling, and manufacturing quality assurance.

“For two full years, our development team worked tirelessly to source only the finest natural ingredients and perfect a functional formula that truly works. We partnered with Aim High Tolling Solutions Inc. because they share our baseline vision of quality and safety,” states Masigasig CEO Edgar Resurreccion.

He added: “It is our corporate promise to provide accessible, natural wellness that supports both men and women in their day-to-day lives. Having earned official FDA approval gives us great confidence that we are offering an effective beverage worthy of the trust of every Filipino household.”

Masigasig President Ms. Relyn Gabon also emphasized the core messaging behind the brand's launch campaign: “Release the Beast Naturally.” According to her, the theme encapsulates the clean energy, physical endurance, sharp mental focus, and everyday wellness that inspired the product’s development from day one.

Available Nationwide at Landers Superstore

Masigasig Herbal Juice is now officially available in all Landers Superstore outlets nationwide, offering simple health accessibility to consumers across the Philippines who want to experience this innovative natural wellness drink.

About Masigasig Distribution and Logistics Inc. (MDLI)

Masigasig Distribution and Logistics Inc. is committed to developing and distributing high-quality natural wellness products that help people live healthier, more active lives. With a strong corporate focus on safety, biological quality, and supply-chain innovation, MDLI works with trusted manufacturing partners to bring science-backed natural health solutions directly to the consumer market.

About Aim High Tolling Solutions Inc.

Aim High Tolling Solutions Inc. is a reliable manufacturing partner known for its strict quality control systems, advanced processing methods, and compliance with national regulatory standards. With targeted commercial expertise in dry blending processes and food supplement manufacturing, the company ensures that every production batch meets elite benchmarks for safety, consistency, and physical quality.

Water finds its second life through SM Green Movement’s conservation program

In an era defined by unpredictable climate shifts and tightening resource constraints, water security has evolved from an environmental talking point into an urgent operational necessity. Across the globe, the strain on our most vital natural resource is hitting critical levels. According to data from the United Nations, nearly half of the global population experiences severe water scarcity for at least one month out of the year.

In the Philippines, this crisis is amplified by prolonged El Niño cycles, rising urban density, and escalating commercial demand. Recognizing this urgent reality, the SM Group has integrated robust sustainable water management into the core of its business operations. Through pioneering engineering and a commitment to the circular economy, SM’s nationwide network of malls proves that large-scale commercial spaces can move beyond heavy consumption and become champions of resource conservation.

The Power of Circular Water Economies: 6.6 Billion Liters Saved

SM’s water conservation practices do more than just lower utility bills—they redefine how commercial infrastructures interact with municipal ecosystems. In a traditional consumption model, water follows a linear path: tap to drain. SM Supermalls has disrupted this cycle by implementing advanced water recycling innovations across its properties.

Key Sustainability Milestone

SM Group successfully recycled 6.6 million cubic meters—equivalent to 6.6 billion liters of water. To put this monumental achievement into perspective, this conserved volume represents nearly 1,000 times the daily water consumption of Metro Manila.

By treating water as a circular asset rather than a disposable commodity, SM effectively reduces its reliance on the municipal supply, leaving more freshwater available for local communities and residential areas.

A 30-Year Legacy of Environmental Stewardship

While many corporations are just now developing their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks, SM Supermalls’ green advocacy started over three decades ago.

The journey began in the 1990s with the landmark installation of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at SM Southmall. The goal was simple yet progressive for its time: conserve water and protect the surrounding ecosystems of nearby communities.

What started as a single-mall initiative has expanded into a massive corporate standard. Today, 90 SM malls are equipped with advanced facilities that recycle wastewater annually.

"Since the 1990s, SM has always prioritized the welfare of nearby communities and the environment. Water is a very precious resource, and we are committed to ensuring its sustainable use for the benefit of present and future generations," says Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Sustainability.

Pioneering Rainwater Harvesting and Eco-Innovations

Beyond standard wastewater treatment, SM Group actively embraces eco-innovation to mitigate urban flooding and enhance water recovery efforts across different topographies in the Philippines.

The SM City Baguio Blueprint

Perched in the high-altitude, high-rainfall region of Benguet, SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility serves as a premier example of localized environmental engineering. The facility collects, filters, and treats rainwater, converting it into a clean supply for tenant operations and kitchen facilities. Since its launch in November 2022 through to December 2025, this single facility processed 53,740 cubic meters of rainwater—a volume equivalent to serving an estimated 63,706 households.

SM City Baguio Rainwater Impact (Nov 2022 - Dec 2025):
[ 53,740 Cubic Meters Processed ] ---> Equivalent to serving 63,706 Filipino Households

Next-Generation Green Malls

SM has accelerated these conservation frameworks in its newer developments, ensuring that sustainability is built into the literal foundation of its architecture:

• SM City La Union: Features a massive 760-cubic-meter rainwater catchment system paired with a 543-square-meter sewage treatment plant, optimizing wastewater management in the region.
• SM City Laoag: Utilizes a highly efficient, self-sustaining water network designed to convert deep well water into a clean, potable supply.

Building Climate Resilience for Non-Potable Applications

The integrated networks across SM Supermalls redirect recycled waste and rainwater back into mall operations rather than letting it run off into overloaded public drainage systems. This recycled water drives critical, non-potable applications such as:

• Commercial cooling towers and HVAC systems
• Irrigation for extensive vertical gardens and green spaces
• General sanitation and facility maintenance

By utilizing treated wastewater for these heavy-use tasks, SM safeguards local drinking supplies, building operational resilience that keeps businesses running smoothly even during seasonal droughts and water shortages.

Award-Winning Corporate Sustainability

This long-term dedication to water stewardship has not gone unnoticed. SM Supermalls' green initiatives have earned prestigious industry distinctions from regulatory bodies and environmental guardians, including:

• Bantayog ng Lawa Para sa Kalikasan: Awarded to SM Mall of Asia by the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) for its ecosystem protection efforts.
• Gawad Taga-Ilog Award: Bestowed upon SM Prime by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), marking the first time a private entity received this honor for supporting national water stewardship.

As climate pressures grow, SM Supermalls continues to scale its environmental technologies. By turning commercial centers into self-sustaining hubs of conservation, SM is setting a benchmark for how the private sector can safeguard the planet's most vital resource for generations to come.

Over 21,000 Filipinos Access Job Hiring and Upskilling Opportunities Through SM Supermalls and DOLE's Nationwide Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs

SM in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) hosted the Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs throughout SM’s nationwide network of most-loved malls.

SM Supermalls in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) strengthened their long-standing partnership to once again transform malls into venues of opportunity, hope, and new beginnings through the nationwide Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs mounted across 20 SM malls nationwide, bringing together over 800 employers and over 21,000 job seekers, with more than 1,900 hired on the spot—highlighting the continued impact of accessible, community-based employment initiatives that help Filipinos move forward.

Enhanced Community Opportunities: On top of connecting over 21,000 jobseekers to 800 employers all over the country, the SM-hosted Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs also shared future-ready skills to attendees through upskilling opportunities.

From fresh graduates and first-time job seekers to career shifters and experienced professionals—Filipinos gathered at SM malls this June 12 in search of meaningful employment opportunities, many of whom were interviewed and hired on the spot.

“Samantalahin natin ang lahat nang programa ng pamahalaan lalo na’t habang nandito tayo. Sa SM maraming salamat–ang importante nagtutulungan po tayong lahat at ginagawa natin ang lahat nang ating makakaya,” said Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto.

By combining DOLE’s extensive labor network and employment programs with SM’s accessible community spaces, the collaboration succeeded in empowering local communities—bringing jobs, crucial government support services, and future-ready skills directly to the doorsteps of everyday Filipinos. This year’s Independence Day Job Fair also continued SM’s growing focus on workforce readiness and future-ready skills.

"By partnering with the private sector, mas naging convergent ang ating approach para mas maibigay ang serbisyo ng pamahalaan sa ating mga kababayan. Maganda ang pakiramdam na makita ang ganitong turnout at pagkakaisa lalo na ngayong Araw ng Kalayaan," shared Ryan Roberto Delos Reyes, Supervising Labor Employment Officer of DOLE NCR.

For Patrick Tamayo, who secured a position as a Mobile Promoter, the opportunity meant being able to help his family.

"Masaya po ako na hired-on-the-spot ako. Matutulungan ko na po ang pamilya ko. Hindi ko po inaasahan na mabilis po ako matatanggap," he said.

For Ma. Jamaica Pabunan, Independence Day became more than a celebration—it became an answered prayer. "Naghahanap po talaga ako ng trabaho kaya pinagdasal ko po talaga na matanggap ako and answered prayer po," she shared after being hired on the spot as a Pharmacy Assistant. "Pangalawang job fair ko po itong napuntahan, pero iba po dito sa SM, organized po talaga." 

Their stories were among the many success stories that unfolded during the SM Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs, mounted nationwide by SM Supermalls and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

A Partnership That Creates Opportunities

The success of the initiative reflects the enduring partnership between SM Supermalls and DOLE, united by a shared mission of making employment opportunities more accessible to Filipinos.

By combining DOLE's labor programs and employment network with SM's nationwide presence and community reach, the partnership continues to bring jobs, government services, and workforce development opportunities closer to where people live. 

Across participating malls, applicants explored opportunities from industries such as retail, banking, IT-BPO, hospitality, logistics, food service, education, healthcare, and customer service. Through face-to-face interviews, employers were able to connect directly with qualified candidates while applicants gained immediate access to job openings.

For participating employers, the event also provided an opportunity to support a larger cause. "We joined the job fair not just to fill available positions but also to be part of SM's advocacy this Araw ng Kalayaan. We know there are many Filipinos looking for opportunities," shared Hermie, Talent Acquisition Specialist of Home Credit.

Lisa, Assistant Human Resource Manager of Mesco, Inc., echoed the importance of bringing multiple employers together in one accessible venue. "It's an opportunity for jobseekers to see and apply to different industries in one place. Mas malaking chances for jobseekers," she said.

From Job Fair to Career Growth Hub

This year's Independence Day Job Fair also continued SM's growing focus on workforce readiness and future-ready skills. In partnership with TESDA, DICT, Jobstreet, and other stakeholders, selected venues featured learning opportunities in AI prompting, cybersecurity awareness, Canva basics, digital skills, and livelihood development programs. 

Upskilling for the future: With the support of stakeholders like TESDA, the DICT, and Jobstreet Philippines, selected venues offered digital learning opportunities.

"Here at SM Job Fairs, we promote the freedom to grow, the freedom to upskill, and the freedom to find the job that suits you," said Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK. The impact of these learning opportunities extended beyond employment.

For Rhodora Felipe of Pasig, learning how to create doormats and potholders opened new possibilities to support her family. "Malaking tulong po itong skills na ito sa amin dahil pwede kong gamitin ito para makatulong sa gastusin at baon ng mga bata," she shared. Linalyn Calingasan, another participant, hopes to turn her newly learned skills into a livelihood opportunity with support from local partners. 

More Than a Job Search

To make the experience more convenient, SM Job Fairs also featured a One-Stop Government Service Express through participating agencies such as SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, NBI, PESO, and other institutional partners.

Applicants were able to process employment requirements, seek guidance, and access support services in a single venue—saving both time and resources.

This integrated approach reflects the continuing evolution of SM Job Fairs from traditional recruitment events into community platforms that connect Filipinos not only to jobs, but also to skills, services, and opportunities for long-term growth.

Creating Real Impact Nationwide

Mounted simultaneously across SM malls nationwide, the Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs demonstrated the power of public-private collaboration in creating meaningful opportunities for Filipino communities.

Behind every application submitted, every interview conducted, and every job offer extended is a story of determination, hope, and aspiration.

Power in public-private partnerships: Through the SM Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs, SM supports the DOLE’s efforts to extend employment opportunities to Filipinos all over the country through ease and convenience

1,900 jobseekers were hired-on-the-spot in one day nationwide–adding to the growing pool of employed Filipinos thanks to strong collaborations between employers, government agencies and essential documents and upskilling services.

For some, it meant securing their first job. For others, it meant starting over, supporting a family, or discovering new skills that could open additional sources of income.

These are the stories behind the more than 1,900 hired-on-the-spot applicants—and the reason why SM Supermalls and DOLE continue to strengthen their partnership year after year.

"Pagmalasakitan ninyo 'yung obligasyon ninyo sa kumpanya, nang sa gayon ay sila ay lumago [...] at patuloy silang maghahanap ng trabahante. [And] that is my goal. That is our vision. That is our program. To provide as many jobs as we can — jobs for everyone,” said Manila city Mayor Isko Moreno.

Because freedom is not only celebrated—it is empowered through opportunities. And when opportunities are brought closer to communities, lives are changed, families are uplifted, and the nation moves forward.

Jobseekers experience fast application to employment in just one day.

More Opportunities Ahead

For those who were unable to attend the June 12 Independence Day Job Fair, SM Supermalls continues to mount job fairs year-round across malls nationwide—bringing opportunities closer to communities every month.

JOB FAIR SCHEDULE IN JUNE:

• June 16 - 17 - SM City Novaliches (QC University Job Fair)
• June 16 - 17 - SM City Iloilo (ICT companies)
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• June 17 - SM City Calamba
• June 18 - SM City Bacolod 
• June 18 - SM City Daet
• June 19 - SM City Baliwag (NU Job Fair)
• June 25 - SM City Trece Martires
• June 27 - SM City Bataan (Trabaho at Negosyo)
• June 30 - SM Center Muntinlupa

Note: Schedule may change without prior notice. For updates, visit SM Supermalls Job Fair Page or follow SM Supermalls on social media.