Friday, July 24, 2026

SM Zamboanga Malls Brew the Maxed-Out Coffee Experience with Coffee N' Chill


Coffee lovers have a new reason to gather as SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga bring the warmth and charm of café culture to life with Coffee N' Chill, a nationwide campaign happening across SM Supermalls.


More than just a celebration of coffee, Coffee N' Chill offers guests a cozy and immersive experience where they can sip, shop, snap, and unwind. The activation features an Instagram-worthy Coffee Photo Spot, perfect for capturing memorable moments, alongside a vibrant Coffee Bazaar showcasing a curated selection of coffee brands, café favorites, artisanal brews, delectable treats, and coffee-inspired products.


Whether you're a dedicated coffee enthusiast searching for your next favorite brew, looking for unique finds from participating local brands, or simply spending quality time with family and friends, Coffee N' Chill offers an inviting space to relax and create lasting memories.


Coffee lovers can experience Coffee N' Chill at SM City Mindpro from July 21 to August 4 at the Level 4 Activity Area, and at SM City Zamboanga from July 22 to August 2 at the Lower Ground Event Center—your go-to destinations to sip, shop, snap, and chill.


Make your next coffee break more memorable. Visit Coffee N' Chill at your most-loved SM City Mindpro and SM City Zamboanga, discover exciting coffee finds, capture picture-perfect moments, and experience how SM continues to make every day better for every coffee lover.


This event is part of the SM Supermalls Coffee N' Chill Festival, the country’s biggest celebration of coffee culture, bringing together the largest selection of coffee experiences across 75 participating SM Supermalls nationwide. From cult favorite cafés and local discoveries to exclusive brews and immersive activities, the festival delivers maxed out experiences for every coffee lover. Only at the country’s most loved malls can you enjoy coffee celebrations on this scale, all in one destination.

###

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

Thursday, July 23, 2026

Your Guide to New Stores and Food Spots at SM Supermalls in Mindanao


No two mall visits are exactly the same. Some days call for a café stop, others for a shopping trip or a meal you've been craving! 

This July, SM Supermalls is adding more experiences across Mindanao with a fresh mix of dining spots and lifestyle brands. From first-in-SM concepts to exciting new openings, there's even more to enjoy, whatever brings you to the mall.

Here's what's new at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls!

Yappari


Yappari is now open on the Lower Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, bringing its signature lava stone steak experience to Zamboanga for the very first time. Enjoy premium cuts served on sizzling hot stones, so you can cook every bite to your preferred doneness while savoring every flavorful moment.

Tong Yang


Tong Yang has officially arrived on Level 3 of SM City Zamboanga, marking its first branch in Zamboanga. Known for its all-you-can-eat hot pot and grill concept, it's the perfect spot to gather with family and friends over fresh meats, seafood, vegetables, and flavorful broths for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Gashapon Bandai


A new world of surprises awaits at Level 3 of SM CDO Downtown with Gashapon Bandai. From beloved anime characters to adorable mini collectibles, every capsule offers the thrill of not knowing exactly what you'll get next.

Comma Café


Take a pause and enjoy thoughtfully crafted drinks and café favorites at Comma Café, soon to open at the Level 2 of SM Lanang. As the first branch in SM, it's an inviting spot for casual catch-ups, quiet afternoons, and everything in between!

Everyday routines are constantly evolving, and so are the places that support them. From comfort dining destinations to fashion and lifestyle brands, SM Supermalls continues to bring your favorite choices and experiences closer to the communities around you!

Check out these latest openings and see what's new at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for updates.

###

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences. 

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM.

Samsung Unveils Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Fold8, Flip8, and Galaxy Watch Ultra2 at Exclusive Manila Preview

samsung-galaxy-unfolded-manila-2026
Galaxy Unpacked event at Whitespace Manila. Photo by Cedric Lucero

MANILA, Philippines – Samsung Philippines gave members of the media and content creators an exclusive first look at its newest Galaxy devices during the Galaxy Unfolded media preview held at Whitespace Manila ahead of the global Galaxy Unpacked launch.

I had the opportunity to fly to Manila and experience the latest Galaxy innovations firsthand before they were officially announced. The event showcased Samsung's newest foldable smartphones and smartwatches, highlighting how artificial intelligence, productivity, photography, and health tracking continue to shape the company's latest devices.

A Closer Look at Samsung's New Foldables


Galaxy Z Flip8, Fold8 Ultra, Fold8
Galaxy Z Flip8, Fold8 Ultra, Fold8

Samsung introduced three new foldable smartphones designed for different lifestyles and user preferences.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra


Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra
Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra. Photo by Cedric Lucero

Leading the lineup is the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Samsung's most advanced foldable smartphone to date.

Built for professionals, creators, and power users, the device features an expansive 8-inch main display that provides more room for multitasking, editing content, and enjoying entertainment. It also comes equipped with a 200MP main camera, an upgraded ultra-wide camera, Galaxy AI features, and a large 5,000mAh battery.

Despite packing more powerful hardware, Samsung has also made the Fold8 Ultra slimmer and lighter, making it more comfortable to carry every day.

Starting Price: ₱123,990 (256GB)

Galaxy Z Fold8


Galaxy Z Fold8 | Cedric Lucero
Galaxy Z Fold8. Photo by Cedric Lucero

For users who enjoy reading, streaming, gaming, and multitasking, the new Galaxy Z Fold8 offers a fresh foldable experience in a lighter package.

Samsung describes it as the lightest Galaxy Z Fold yet while still delivering a large immersive display, dual 50MP cameras, and a 4,800mAh battery. It strikes a balance between productivity and entertainment, making it suitable for users who want a larger screen without stepping up to the Ultra model.

Starting Price: ₱109,990 (256GB)

Galaxy Z Flip8


Galaxy Z Flip8 | Cedric Lucero
Galaxy Z Flip8. Photo by Cedric Lucero

The Galaxy Z Flip8 continues Samsung's popular Flip series with a slimmer design and improved AI capabilities.

Its enhanced FlexWindow allows users to perform more tasks without opening the phone, while the upgraded 50MP camera makes capturing photos and videos even more convenient. Designed for users who value portability and style, the Flip8 combines compact form with everyday functionality.

Starting Price: ₱77,990 (256GB)

Smarter Health Tracking with Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9

Samsung also introduced two new smartwatches focused on wellness, fitness, and everyday health monitoring.

Galaxy Watch Ultra2


Galaxy Watch Ultra2 | Cedric Lucero
Galaxy Watch Ultra2

Designed for outdoor adventures and active lifestyles, the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 comes with Samsung's brightest smartwatch display yet, an 800mAh battery, advanced GPS, trail running tools, and support for diving activities.

The watch is built for users who enjoy hiking, running, cycling, and other outdoor activities while keeping track of their health and performance throughout the day.

Price: ₱44,990

Galaxy Watch9


Galaxy Watch9
Galaxy Watch9

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch9 is designed for everyday wellness.

It offers continuous sleep tracking, heart health monitoring, activity tracking, and AI-powered health insights in a lightweight and comfortable design suitable for all-day wear.

Available in 40mm and 44mm sizes, the Watch9 helps users better understand their daily habits while encouraging healthier routines.

Starting Price: ₱22,990

Artificial Intelligence Across the Galaxy Ecosystem

One of the biggest highlights during the preview was Samsung's continued integration of Galaxy AI across its latest devices.

From productivity tools on the Fold series to personalized health insights on the Galaxy Watch lineup, Samsung demonstrated how AI is becoming part of everyday experiences. Features such as intelligent assistance, smarter multitasking, and health monitoring aim to help users accomplish more while making technology feel more intuitive.

First Impressions

Seeing the devices up close provided a better appreciation of how much Samsung has refined its foldable lineup over the years.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra immediately stood out with its premium build, expansive display, and productivity-focused features. At the same time, the Galaxy Z Flip8 continues to appeal to users looking for a compact smartphone without sacrificing performance.

On the wearable side, the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 impressed with its rugged design and outdoor capabilities, whereas the Galaxy Watch9 remains an excellent option for users who prioritize everyday wellness and health tracking.

Availability in the Philippines

Samsung's newest Galaxy devices are now available for pre-order in the Philippines through Samsung Authorized Stores, Samsung.com, and participating online retailers.

For more information, visit the official Samsung Philippines website:

With the newest Galaxy lineup, Samsung continues to expand its ecosystem by offering devices designed for productivity, creativity, fitness, and everyday life—all powered by smarter AI experiences that adapt to different users and lifestyles. 

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Discover Art Beyond the Gallery as Award-Winning "Art for Everyone" Returns to SM Seaside City Cebu

Discover Art Beyond the Gallery as Award-Winning "Art for Everyone" Returns to SM Seaside City Cebu

Following the successful run of Art for Everyone at SM J Mall, the award-winning, advocacy-led initiative continues its celebration in Cebu at SM Seaside, reinforcing SM's commitment to making creativity more accessible by transforming malls into vibrant cultural spaces where everyone can discover, create, connect, and experience art to the max. 

From July 19 to August 2, 2026, the Upper Ground Level, Cube Wing at SM Seaside City Cebu transforms into a creative destination, featuring an inspiring art exhibit alongside interactive workshops and community activities that invite visitors of all ages to discover, create, and connect through art. 

This year's exhibit showcases the works of 49 artists from Artist Beyond Borders and 5 artists from the Calbayog City Visual Arts Association (CCVAA), bringing together diverse artistic styles and perspectives in a celebration of Filipino creativity. Visitors can also take part in the remaining activities, including the Kiddie Art Workshop by Everlasting Hope Philippines on July 25 and the Visual Storytelling Workshop by Kristine Lim of Artist Beyond Borders on August 2.

More than an exhibition, Art for Everyone champions accessibility, inclusivity, and creative empowerment by providing artists with opportunities to exhibit their work and encouraging more people to appreciate and engage with original art.

The initiative has earned international recognition, receiving Gold at the 2025 Asia Pacific Stevie Awards and Gold at the 2025 International Business Awards, reflecting its success as a community-driven platform that makes art more accessible to Filipinos.

Its impact continues to grow. In 2025, Art for Everyone brought together 1,222 artists, showcased 6,002 artworks, generated over ₱5.8 million in art sales, and engaged communities across 21 SM malls nationwide. This year, the initiative expands to 26 participating SM malls, further strengthening SM's commitment to supporting local artists and making art more visible and accessible across the country.

Visit Art for Everyone until August 2, 2026, at the Upper Ground Level, Cube Wing, and discover an award-winning celebration of creativity where art truly goes beyond the gallery, only at your most loved SM Seaside City Cebu.

Tuesday, July 21, 2026

SM City Zamboanga Powers a Greener Future with Launch of Electric Vehicle Charging Station

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines, 21 July 2026 Reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and future-ready communities, SM City Zamboanga officially launched its Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station on July 21, 2026, at the Level 3 Carpark Building, providing electric vehicle owners with a safe, convenient, and reliable charging facility in the heart of the city.


The launch marks another milestone in SM Supermalls' sustainability journey as it continues to expand its network of EV charging stations across the country, supporting the Philippines' transition toward cleaner and more sustainable mobility.


The inauguration was graced by representatives from the City Government of Zamboanga headed by Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso and City Planning and Development Chief Ma. Luz Agbayani, electric vehicle advocates, and business partners, underscoring the shared commitment of both the public and private sectors to environmental stewardship and sustainable urban development.


The new EV Charging Station enables customers to conveniently charge their electric vehicles for free while enjoying the mall's shopping, dining, and leisure offerings, making sustainable transportation more accessible to the growing EV community in Zamboanga City.


During the ceremony, SM City Zamboanga Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez emphasized that the initiative reflects SM's dedication to creating meaningful innovations that benefit both people and the planet.

"At SM Supermalls, we believe that every innovation should create a positive impact on the lives of the communities we serve. As more Filipinos embrace electric mobility, we are proud to provide future-ready infrastructure that empowers our customers to make environmentally responsible choices while enjoying greater convenience." 


The launch also highlights the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable progress. Through partnerships with government agencies and community stakeholders, SM City Zamboanga continues to support initiatives that contribute to a cleaner environment and a more resilient future for Zamboanga City.


As the newest addition to SM Supermalls' growing sustainability initiatives, the EV Charging Station complements the company's broader environmental programs, which include renewable energy adoption, waste management, water conservation, green building practices, and community-led environmental campaigns.


At your most-loved SM City Zamboanga, innovation goes beyond creating better shopping experiences—it is about building a better future for every Filipino. As SM continues to invest in sustainable solutions, every initiative is thoughtfully designed with customers, communities, and the environment in mind—because everything we do is All for You.

###

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

Friday, July 17, 2026

SM CINEMA THEATER FORMATS EXPLAINED: YOUR GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE CINEMA THAT BEST SUITS YOU

The second half of 2026 is packed with blockbuster releases that deserve to be experienced on the big screen. 

From Disney's live-action "Moana" and Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" to the highly anticipated "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," among many others, moviegoers have plenty of reasons to head back to the cinema. 

But not all movie theaters offer the same experience. Whether you're after larger-than-life visuals, immersive sound, or premium comfort, there's a cinema format designed for you. Before booking your tickets for this season's biggest releases, here's a guide to finding the perfect way to watch based on your preferences.

IMAX


For moviegoers who want the biggest, boldest cinematic experience, IMAX delivers. Featuring an expansive screen, breathtaking visuals, and crystal-clear sound, IMAX puts you at the heart of every scene, making every moment feel larger than life. 

Available at: SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM City Clark, SM Lanang, and SM City Cebu

SCREENX


SCREENX takes immersion to the next level. Using synchronized side-wall projections, the action extends beyond the main screen and surrounds audiences across three walls, creating a cinematic experience that draws you deeper into the story.

Available at: SM Mall of Asia

DIRECTORS CLUB


For those who prefer a more exclusive movie experience, Directors Club delivers premium comfort. Sink into plush leather recliner seats while Dolby Atmos fills the auditorium with rich, immersive sound, complemented by sharp laser projection for exceptional picture quality.

Available at: Select SM Cinema branches nationwide

EVENT SCREEN


More than a movie theater, the Event Screen is a versatile venue designed for shared experiences. Whether you're hosting a private screening, a watch party, or a special celebration, the space can be customized to make every occasion memorable.

Available at: SM Aura, SM City Bataan, SM City Bicutan, SM City Cebu, SM City Tanza, SM City Tuguegarao, and SM City Urdaneta

REGULAR CINEMA


SM Cinema's Regular Cinemas provide a great movie experience featuring comfortable seating, crisp digital projection, and immersive sound, delivering quality entertainment for moviegoers.

Available at: All SM Cinema branches nationwide 

The only way to experience movies from the undisputed leader of the big screen

Whether you're looking for the spectacle of IMAX, the immersive world of SCREENX, the premium exclusivity of Directors Club, the flexibility of the Event Screen, or the dependable quality of a Regular Cinema, SM Cinema, the country's undisputed leader of the big screen, offers a format to match every moviegoer. 

SM Cinema operates more than 389 screens across over 79 branches nationwide, bringing world-class movie experiences closer to Filipinos wherever they are.

###

 

About SM Supermalls 

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM.

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

SM Seaside Cebu Arena Builds Momentum As Cebu’s Regional Entertainment Hub with BINI Sold-Out Show


BINI takes center stage to a sold-out crowd at the SM Seaside Cebu Arena during the Cebu stop of the "BINI Signals World Tour 2026." 

CEBU, Philippines, 14th July 2026 - The sold-out BINI concert at SM Seaside Cebu Arena marked another milestone in Cebu's growing reputation as a destination for world-class live entertainment, drawing thousands of fans from across the Visayas and beyond. The successful staging of the highly anticipated show showcased the venue's capability to host large-scale productions while reinforcing Cebu's emergence as a thriving regional entertainment hub.

Designed by award-winning global architecture firm Arquitectonica, the P7-billion arena spans more than seven hectares of gross floor area and can accommodate up to 25,000 guests. Its exterior is defined by wave-shaped glass windows, echoing the signature façade of its sister venue, the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Complementing this, the continued success of events at SM Seaside Cebu Arena is creating new opportunities for tourism, local businesses, and future large-scale events, further strengthening Cebu's position as one of the country's leading destinations for premier live entertainment.

Thousands of fans filled the SM Seaside Cebu Arena for BINI's sold-out concert, highlighting the venue's world-class facilities and strengthening Cebu's position as a rising regional hub for premier live entertainment.

The successful event highlighted the growing confidence of artists, promoters, and production companies in bringing major concerts to Cebu. Beyond delivering an unforgettable experience for fans, the concert generated economic activity across the tourism, hospitality, retail, transportation, and food sectors, creating new opportunities for local businesses and showcasing the region's capability to support productions of international standards.

SM Seaside City Cebu offers a complete lifestyle experience, with diverse dining, shopping, and leisure options. 

Located beside one of SM Supermalls' most-loved malls, SM Seaside Cebu Arena once again proved to be more than just a concert venue. Concertgoers were able to max out experiences by enjoying shopping, dining, and leisure at SM Seaside City Cebu before and after the show, demonstrating how the integrated destination enhances every visit while contributing to the city's growing appeal as a lifestyle and entertainment center.

The overwhelming response to the BINI concert further affirmed Cebu's growing role in the country's live entertainment scene. As more artists and organizers include the city in their concert tours, Cebu is attracting greater investments, increasing visitor arrivals, generating employment, and strengthening its creative and tourism industries. These developments position the city as a key entertainment gateway for the Visayas and Mindanao.

SM Seaside Cebu Arena has direct access to SM Seaside City Cebu and the upcoming SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu, Park Inn by Radisson, and Radisson Hotel, creating a comprehensive lifestyle, tourism, and business district in the Queen City of the South.

Through SM Seaside Cebu Arena, SM remains true to its promise of bringing world-class entertainment closer to Filipino communities while helping drive regional growth. By continuously developing destinations that blend retail, leisure, and live entertainment, SM Supermalls is creating more opportunities for people to connect, celebrate, and max out experiences, while contributing to Cebu's continued rise as one of the country's premier entertainment destinations.

#SMforCebu
#ChangingTheGameElevatingEntertainment
#SMCebuArena 

Coins.ph Brings Next-Gen ‘Pay, Move, Trade’ Infrastructure to Businesses Nationwide

MANILA — Coins.ph, the country's largest digital asset exchange and one of its fastest-growing mobile wallets, is expanding its payments and trading infrastructure to enterprise clients in major urban centers nationwide.

The move positions Coins.ph as a core operational partner for modern businesses, giving companies access to blockchain-based and traditional fiat payment rails through a single platform. With regional business hubs across the country continuing to grow, Coins.ph says its unified infrastructure is designed to help both large enterprises and small and medium businesses (SMEs) run more efficient operations through three main services: Pay, Move, and Trade.

PAY: Helping Businesses Capture Local Sales. Coins.ph is giving merchants a single checkout system that supports QRPh and WebPay, making it easier for businesses to convert local customers and receive payments without friction. The platform also offers an automated disbursement tool that allows companies to send instant payouts and reconcile transactions in real time across local payment networks.

Key features include:

  • QRPh Crypto Payments — crypto payments accepted directly within a merchant's own app via QR code
  • QRPh Fiat Payments — QR-based payments settled in Philippine Pesos
  • WebPay — a checkout solution that accepts online, in-store, and crypto payments through hosted or API-based integrations
  • Disbursement — real-time batch transfers and payroll payouts to more than 120 banks and e-wallets through InstaPay and PESONet

MOVE: Faster Settlement for Local and Cross-Border Payouts Coins.ph is also targeting the delays common in traditional settlement systems. By using stablecoin technology as a regulated platform, the company says businesses can cut settlement times from an average of three to five days down to just minutes.

The service is particularly aimed at the Philippines' estimated 1.5 million remote freelancers and digital professionals, many of whom rely on receiving international payments quickly and reliably. Coins.ph says its infrastructure is built to let enterprises connect their digital asset operations directly to fast, secure, same-day local payment rails.

Key features include:

  • Cross-border Payments — international payouts delivered over global rails, with stablecoin pre-funding and local currency conversion upon arrival
  • Corridor Readiness — direct connections to Philippine payment rails such as InstaPay and PESONet

TRADE: Institutional-Grade Liquidity for High-Volume Clients. For businesses that need price certainty at scale, Coins.ph offers institutional trading tools built for treasuries, funds, and trading desks, including deep liquidity and fixed spreads.

Key features include:

  • Ramp — a fiat deposit and withdrawal channel for exchanges that manages compliance, KYC, and AML requirements within third-party apps
  • Order Book — high-volume spot trading with tight spreads, deep liquidity, and tiered VIP pricing based on trading volume

"At Coins.ph, we believe the real power of blockchain shows up when you leverage its utility to enable cheaper, faster transactions," said Amira Alawi, Global Marketing Director at Coins.ph. She added that once businesses no longer have to wait days for cross-border funds to clear or manually reconcile transactions, cryptocurrency moves beyond speculation and into practical, everyday use. According to Alawi, when backend technology removes that daily friction and protects a company's bottom line, wider adoption follows naturally — since every peso saved can be reinvested into growing the business.