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Why Public-Private Partnerships Matter More Than Ever for Filipino MSMEs

  How SM Supermalls and the Department of Trade and Industry are creating more pathways for entrepreneurs to grow PASAY CITY, Philippines — Starting a business has never been easier. Growing one remains the real challenge. As more Filipinos—particularly young entrepreneurs—turn their ideas into businesses, the conversation is shifting from simply encouraging entrepreneurship to creating the right conditions for MSMEs to scale sustainably.   According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) , MSMEs account for 99.6% of all registered businesses in the Philippines , making them the backbone of the country's economy. Yet despite their significant contribution, many continue to face familiar barriers—limited market access, low business visibility, and the challenge of expanding beyond their first customers. These are challenges that neither the government nor the private sector can solve alone.    Increasingly, meaningful public-private partnerships are proving to...
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A Coffee Lover’s Passport: MOA Brewtopia Brings Iconic Philippine Cult Favorites to SM Mall of Asia

MANILA, Philippines, July 2026 – Coffee lovers are in for their next caffeine-fueled adventure as SM Mall of Asia (MOA), the country’s most loved mall for larger-than-life experiences, partners with The Solana Market to bring together sought-after brews, local finds, and immersive experiences at MOA Brewtopia. As part of its commitment to delivering maxed out experiences, the 10-day festival transforms the mall into the ultimate destination for Philippine coffee culture. Happening from July 17 to 26, 2026, the 10-day coffee festival transforms the MOA Main Atrium into a buzzing hub for coffee culture, bringing together 22 curated cafés and lifestyle merchants alongside interactive activities and larger-than-life installations. 22 Iconic Brands Under One Roof Coffee aficionados can discover some of the country’s sought-after brews without having to hop from one destination to another. From rich and earthy notes to nutty and chocolatey flavors, MOA Brewtopia offers a taste of the diversi...

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! 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! Yappari Yappari is now open on the Lower Ground Level of SM...

Jor-el Espina’s Dekada Collection Tells The Story of a Designer’s Undying Love for The Creation Process

  In the lead up to ArteFino’s milestone celebration, Isang Dekada, the atelier of Jor-el Espina is abuzz with activity. It’s all hands on deck. With each passing day, the collection continuously evolves and grows. “We are inspired,” he confesses. For the contemporary Filipino designer, the process of creating a collection like Dekada is what fuels him to persevere in his craft. “I always feel like I’m starting all over again–discovering and experimenting, improving and learning. Over the years, I’ve always believed that there is always room for growth and to never be complacent.” It has been a decade since Jor-el first joined ArteFino. It was through the artisanal trade fair where he began to develop a keen instinct for conscious, contemporary design in a retail setting. “It was where I really began to grow as a designer and a brand. I really began to establish my identity and clientele through ArteFino, and up to this day I regard this platform as my home,” Jor-el shares.  ...

Excellence Beyond the Classroom: OEd's (Online Education) Growing Legacy of Board Topnotchers

  The Birthplace of Topnotchers Success is never an accident—it is the product of dedication, expert mentorship, and a learning environment that empowers students to perform at their very best. For many aspiring professionals, earning a college degree is only the first milestone. The ultimate test comes in the board examinations, where years of preparation, discipline, and quality education are measured against the country's highest standards. For OEd (Online Education) , these milestones have become more than individual success stories—they have become a defining characteristic of the institution. With another impressive showing in the July 2026 Real Estate Appraiser Licensure Examination, OEd once again demonstrates that academic excellence can flourish in a flexible learning environment. Leading this year's achievers is Mina Isobel Tormes , who secured the Top 1 spot nationwide. She is joined by fellow OEd graduates Blue Sander Falag-ey , who ranked Top 2 , and ...

Art in Aura: An Art Market of Next Gen Visionaries Opens at SM Aura with Over 60 Filipino Artists

TAGUIG CITY, Philippines — Contemporary Philippine art takes center stage as Art Lounge Manila, in collaboration with SM Aura’s Art for Everyone, presents Art in Aura: An Art Market of Next Gen Visionaries, a dynamic celebration of creativity featuring an extraordinary roster of established masters and emerging talents. The exhibition runs July 12 to 21, 2026 at the UG Atrium of SM Aura Premier. Designed as an accessible and engaging art destination, Art in Aura brings together collectors, enthusiasts, families, and first-time buyers in a vibrant marketplace where Philippine art can be discovered, appreciated, and collected. The exhibition showcases an exceptional lineup of artists, led by National and internationally acclaimed names including Larry Alcala, Federico Alcuaz, Abdulmari Imao, Raul Lebajo, and Juvenal Sansó, alongside more than sixty contemporary artists representing diverse styles, mediums, and creative perspectives. Among the featured ...

ArteFino Isang Dekada: Celebrating 10 Years of Filipino Craftsmanship in Motion

 For the past decade, ArteFino has become more than the country's premier artisanal fair. It has grown into a movement that champions Filipino craftsmanship, preserves cultural heritage, and empowers local artisans and communities. This year, ArteFino celebrates its milestone 10th anniversary with "Isang Dekada: Heritage in Motion," happening from July 30 to August 2 at The Fifth at Rockwell and Power Plant Mall . The anniversary edition reflects how Philippine artistry continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in tradition, honoring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future of Filipino craftsmanship. Founded by Cedie Vargas, Marimel Francisco, Maritess Pineda, Mita Rufino, and Susie Quiros , ArteFino was created with a shared vision of giving Filipino artisans and homegrown brands a platform to thrive. Over the years, it has become one of the country's most influential showcases of local design, bringing together master craftsmen, herita...

Solora Philippines: The Smart Choice for Sustainable Eco-Tourism Resorts

As the Philippines strengthens its commitment to sustainable tourism, more local government units (LGUs) are encouraging resort developments to protect the country's natural landscapes. In many island and eco-tourism destinations, developers are required to use less invasive accommodation structures that preserve forests, coastlines, and natural terrain instead of permanent concrete buildings. This is why more resort owners are choosing Solora Philippines, the country's trusted Glamping Tent & Dome Supplier in the Philippines. Unlike conventional resorts that require heavy excavation and permanent foundations, Solora's luxury glamping domes, tents, bubble domes, and event domes are designed with minimal environmental impact. Installed on elevated platforms or light foundations, Solora structures significantly reduce land disturbance, making them ideal for environmentally sensitive destinations such as Palawan, Boracay, Siargao, Coron, El Nido, Bohol, and oth...