Online Education (OEd) Brings Strengthened Senior High School Curriculum Online, Putting Career Readiness at the Center

As Philippine senior high school education moves into a new phase, Online Education (OEd) is positioning flexible online learning alongside a curriculum that is increasingly focused on practical skills, career pathways, and college and job preparation.

As Filipino students prepare for college and the workforce, OEd's Senior High School program is also changing.

Beginning with the 2026–2027 academic year, OEd will offer the Strengthened Senior High School (SSHS) Curriculum, which mirrors the framework under DepEd Order No. 17, s. 2026 as well as DepEd Order No. 009, s. School calendar for three terms. 2026.

The modification goes beyond simply updating the OEd curriculum. It gives students an additional way to get ready for an increasingly skills-driven economy by combining the flexibility of online learning with a more effective and career-focused Senior High School curriculum.

A New SHS for a Changing Future

One of the most noticeable changes is the shift to a three-term academic structure with 215 class days distributed throughout the school year.

Additionally, 180 instructional hours—60 hours per term—have been allotted to core subjects. The additional instructional time serves as a buffer against potential disruptions and guaranties that students complete the required learning competencies.

The revised structure also places a greater emphasis on electives and hands-on learning.

Academic Track students will take an elective in Grade 11, but Tech-Pro students will have much more time for hands-on learning (a Tech-Pro elective is allotted 330 instructional hours over three terms).

With a 320-hour requirement that enables the integration of recently introduced subjects while providing students with practical experience, Work Immersion remains a significant component of the curriculum.

The changes reflect a broader trend in senior high school, where students are shifting from simply completing courses to developing skills that will support them in their future academic and professional pursuits. More Choices and Clearer Career Paths

The revised curriculum also expands the conversation about what students can do beyond senior high school.

The updated fields represented in OEd's aligned programs include Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; Business and Entrepreneurship; ICT Support and Computer Programming Technologies; Creative Arts and Design Technology; Hospitality and Tourism; Sports, Health and Wellness; and Arts, Social Science, and Humanities.

These pathways can help students make connections between their Senior High School education and possible careers and industries, ranging from engineering, nursing, and technology to entrepreneurship, hospitality, tourism, creative industries, and sports.

Additional structural changes are also introduced by the curriculum. The former "Doorways" have been renamed Cross-Track options to allow for greater flexibility across learning pathways. In order to facilitate the progressive development of research competencies, Research Methods has also been divided into Research 1 and Research 2.

More Choices, Clearer Career Pathways

 

Students graduate from senior high school with an understanding of how education connects to future opportunities.

Where Flexibility Meets Career Readiness OEd's proposal is particularly relevant because education is moving away from the traditional classroom at the same time as the curriculum change.

OEd's online learning model allows senior high school students to pursue the enhanced curriculum with greater flexibility in where and how they study.

That can be particularly beneficial for students balancing work, family responsibilities, hobbies, or circumstances that make consistent attendance in class difficult.

OEd's approach combines two increasingly important priorities in Philippine education: better preparation for life after senior high school and greater accessibility in the delivery of that education.

For parents, the shift can also change the way Senior High School choices are evaluated.

Nowadays, it's more crucial to think about which learning pathway will best prepare a student for entrepreneurship, college, the workforce, or other opportunities than just which strand they should follow skills development. Building Education Around What Comes Next.

The revised curriculum is still being applied in a changing way. OEd's curriculum materials state that subject codes are still undergoing final review and development. Following curriculum development and validation, corresponding codes and additional technical information will be added.

However, the larger academic structure, subject distribution, and curriculum design already set the framework for implementation.

That distinction is very important. Senior high school is expected to do more than just act as a transitional institution between basic education and college. It must help young Filipinos identify their strengths, develop relevant skills, and make more informed decisions about their future.

OEd's Strengthened Senior High School Curriculum brings this objective into the context of online learning.

"NEW SHS" is the campaign's tagline. Instead of just changing the subjects or schedules, OEd is presenting the curriculum shift as a chance for students to reevaluate how Senior High School can prepare them for the future.

In an economy where industries, technology, and the skills that employers need are always evolving, education must be able to adapt.

The future of Senior High School may therefore be measured not simply by how much students learn, but by how well that learning prepares them for what comes after graduation. By combining the Strengthened SHS Curriculum with flexible online education, OEd is betting that students should not have to choose between an education that fits their lives and one that prepares them for their future.

Your EDSA Commute is Getting An Upgrade at My SM

SM malls are evolving to support access to key transportation points. (In photo: The SM Megamall EDSA Busway Concourse and Pedestrian Bridge enhances pedestrian circulation and seamless access within one of Metro Manila’s busiest commercial and transport hubs.) 

For millions of Filipinos navigating EDSA, the daily commute could soon become safe, more seamless, and more convenient. As SM continues its transformation journey beyond its retail and shared spaces, its malls are also evolving to make getting to and from key transport hubs easier for commuters. 

In the coming months, mallgoers can look forward to improved connections through the SM Megamall EDSA Busway Concourse and Pedestrian Bridge and SM North EDSA MRT-7 link. The projects aim to shorten long walks to transportation hubs while giving commuters familiar, well-lit, and ventilated access and departure points.

The completion of the SM Megamall EDSA Busway link, which connects SM Megamall to the Ortigas station of the EDSA Bus Carousel, provides an accessible entrance and exit point for commuters. 

Prior to the completion of the elevated walkway, commuters had to pass through the congested MRT-3 footbridge to reach the EDSA Carousel. The new pedestrian bridge significantly shortens the long, inconvenient walk, allowing easier access and smoother commuter flow in the busy transportation hub.

The SM Megamall Busway Link features an elevated enclosed pedestrian bridge and concourse spanning EDSA.

The elevated walkway is fully covered, protecting commuters from rough weather conditions. The vast space has ramps and an elevator to ensure easy access for commuters, including persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and pregnant women.

The SM Megamall EDSA Busway Link provides commuters with easier access to the bus carousel platform, which offers northbound trips to Monumento and southbound trips to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange.

Meanwhile, the ongoing construction of the SM North EDSA–MRT 7 Link will provide commuters with seamless access to the Common Station linking MRT-3, LRT-1, the soon-to-be-operational MRT-7, and nearby establishments. Pedestrians can safely walk from hub to hub as the walkway will be fully covered to protect them from harsh weather conditions. 

These pedestrian walkways, done in coordination with the Department of Transportation, the Department of Public Works and Highways, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, are part of SM Supermalls’ broader initiative to create commuter-friendly facilities around their most-loved SM Supermalls. 

Under the MY SM Transportation e, the mall operator is reimagining the daily commute—not simply by improving access to transportation, but by creating safer, more comfortable, and more convenient journeys for everyone. By putting everyday commuter needs at the heart of these improvements, SM aims to make getting from one place to another a more seamless part of everyday life. 

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.

SM City Baguio Shares the Love of Learning Through AI, Connecting Generations in the Digital Age

DICT-CAR begins an interactive AI learning session with young participants at SM City Baguio.

Recognizing the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in everyday life and the importance of making digital learning accessible to all generations, SM Supermalls, through SM City Baguio, partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology – Cordillera Administrative Region (DICT-CAR) to conduct a learning session on Artificial Intelligence for senior citizens and children at SM City Baguio.

The learning session brought together participants from different generations, providing them with an opportunity to discover how AI works, explore its practical applications, and better understand how emerging technologies can be used responsibly in their everyday lives.

Participants were introduced to the basics of Artificial Intelligence through interactive discussions and demonstrations designed to make the technology easier to understand and more accessible. The session also highlighted practical ways AI can support learning, creativity, information access, and other everyday activities while emphasizing the importance of using technology safely and responsibly.

Young participants listen attentively as DICT-CAR introduces them to the possibilities and practical applications of Artificial Intelligence during the learning session at SM City Baguio

More than simply introducing a new technology, the initiative reflects the importance of lifelong digital learning. As technology continues to evolve, SM City Baguio and DICT-CAR aim to help communities of all ages become more confident, informed, and responsible digital users.

Senior citizens actively engage in a discussion on Artificial Intelligence with DICT-CAR, gaining practical insights on how AI can be used safely and responsibly in everyday life.

Senior citizens actively engage in a discussion on Artificial Intelligence with DICT-CAR, gaining practical insights on how AI can be used safely and responsibly in everyday life.

Throughout the session, participants actively engaged with DICT-CAR resource speakers, explored the capabilities of AI, and learned practical ways to navigate emerging digital technologies. The interactive discussions also encouraged participants to ask questions and share their experiences, creating a learning environment where both young and older participants could discover technology together.

For mothers and their children, the session provided an opportunity to learn about AI together and better understand how emerging technology can be used at home and in school.

Joan Jimenez, who attended the session with her 10-year-old son, Jacob Jimenez, a Grade 5 student, shared how the activity gave children an opportunity to become more familiar with a technology that is increasingly becoming part of their everyday lives.

“Yung age ng mga bata ngayon, very common na yung AI. I think magandang opportunity sa kanila ito para ma-broaden yung knowledge nila at ma-experience din kung paano nagwo-work ang AI. I am very thankful kasi ino-open ng SM City Baguio ang mga ganitong opportunities para sa mga kids. I hope na mas marami pang ganitong programs. For us, despite the weather and the suspension of classes, we feel safe here at SM City Baguio while the kids are learning and participating in activities like this.” ~Joan Jimenez, who attended the session with her 10-year-old son, Jacob Jimenez, a Grade 5 student

She also appreciated having a safe and accessible venue where children could continue learning despite challenges such as class suspensions and unfavorable weather conditions.

10-year-old Jacob Jimenez raises questions during the AI learning session, exploring how Artificial Intelligence can support learning and creativity.

Her son, Jacob, was particularly interested in discovering how AI can be used beyond simple conversations and searches, sharing how his curiosity about the technology has already inspired him to experiment with it.

“I want to know more about AI because it is futuristic technology. I tried a game where you have to use AI, and I also made an app.” ~Jacob Jimenez, 10-year-old 

AI FOR ALL AGES – Senior citizens actively participate in the AI learning session led by DICT-CAR.

AI FOR ALL AGES – Senior citizens actively participate in the AI learning session led by DICT-CAR.

The session also encouraged senior citizens to embrace new technologies and discover that digital learning is not limited by age.

Senior participant Cheryl Alquiza proudly shows her certificate after completing the AI learning session led by DICT-CAR at SM City Baguio

Cheryl Alquiza, one of the senior participants, said the session provided valuable information that could help senior citizens become more aware of the risks they may encounter in the digital space.

“We learned so much information, and the experiences shared by someone who was scammed were a big help to us, especially us seniors. Sometimes, we are very vulnerable to scams. Hindi namin alam na puwede ka pala maloko through text and messages lang. Dapat aware din tayo, especially when using ATMs, because we learned that there are also things we need to be careful about when using them.” ~Cheryl Alquiza, one of the Senior Participants

She also emphasized the importance of staying alert when using digital and financial services.

The inclusive nature of the activity was also highlighted by Engineer Katherine Aguilar of DICT-CAR, who discussed Artificial Intelligence during the learning session. She noted how the participation of both children and senior citizens demonstrated that technology can serve as a bridge across generations.

“Maganda yung ginawa natin kasi from kids to seniors, it only goes to show na yung technology ay walang pinipiling edad. Very inclusive siya. SM City Baguio is not just for shopping or entertainment, but it is also a venue for learning. So we’re very happy that we have the venue provided by SM.” ~Engineer Katherine Aguilar, DICT-CAR

The stories of the participants highlight the value of creating learning opportunities that bring generations together. From children discovering new possibilities through technology to senior citizens gaining greater awareness of digital tools and online safety, the session demonstrated that digital literacy can be a shared learning experience for the entire community.

The initiative reinforces SM City Baguio’s commitment to creating meaningful learning opportunities for the community. By bringing digital literacy programs closer to different generations, SM continues to support a more digitally inclusive community where everyone can participate, learn, and benefit from the opportunities brought by technology.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia's largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. For generations, SM has grown alongside Filipino communities by creating destinations where people, businesses, and opportunities come together.

Through "My SM," SM continues to evolve with the changing lifestyles and needs of Filipino communities, reimagining the mall experience through thoughtfully designed spaces, better connectivity, innovative digital conveniences, and meaningful experiences that foster connection and strengthen communities. My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

Universal Accessibility by Design and Practice earns SM Group 23 industry distinctions

Through its group-wide drive to create truly inclusive and accommodating spaces for Persons with Disabilities, SM was commended by key industry organizations focused on disability affairs.

With inclusivity and access as a key pillar in SM’s corporate purpose, inclusive spaces and facilities enhance the SM Group’s portfolio of malls, offices, and retail spaces. It is this universal implementation of accessible environments, and commitment to advance disability inclusion that bagged SM Group industry distinctions from The Philippine Foundation For the Rehabilitation of the Disabled Inc. (PFRD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA).

Through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares, disability-friendly facilities are overseen and supported nationwide with manpower training in line with industry standards to effectively accommodate Persons With Disabilities.

“Every single person entering and engaging in the spaces built by SM deserves to feel welcomed and accommodated. Our benchmark for true inclusivity expressed well is when every guest, visitor, and mallgoer can freelymove around our spaces while still receiving the support they need when challenges arise. Inclusion is intentional at SM because of our purpose on sharing social equity and our drive of becoming a truly inclusive Mall for All. It is woven into how we train our people, create our programs, and design our spaces. We believe accessibility is about making every person feel welcome, respected, and able to fully participate in the experiences we create every day.” ~Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations and Program Director for Disability Affairs, SM Cares

SM and SM Cares: Serving to supplement accessibility gaps

For SM Cares, accessibility is a priority—a crucial component of property planning for mobility and manpower training, ultimately contributing to community service. 

The results of this enduring commitment over the years were recognized at the 2026 Apolinario Mabini Awards, where SM’s mall, retail, and office properties received multiple citations for advancing accessibility and creating more inclusive environments for Persons With Disabilities.

Presented by the PFRD, the Apolinario Mabini Awards recognize organizations and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to the welfare and inclusion of Persons With Disabilities. 

SM’s largest network of real estate for retail, SM Supermalls, bagged 12 citations with SM Store, SM Commercial Properties Group, and SM Supermarket, taking home ten awards for the Disability Friendly Establishment category.

Among the recipients are SM City Roxas with silver and SM Center Angono, SM City Bacolod North Block Extension, SM City East Ortigas, SM City Sto. Tomas, SM Store J Mall, SM Store Puerto Princesa, E-Com Three, and E-Com Five with bronze. Special awards were also presented to several SM malls, SM Stores, and Savemore branches for initiatives ranging from substantial compliance with Batas Pambansa Blg. 344 to improvements that addressed accessibility gaps and expanded access for customers.

Additionally, SM Cares was recognized by the National Council for Disability Affairs (NCDA) for its sustained leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing disability inclusion in the Philippines through its Advocate for Equity Award.

The distinction highlights how SM Cares has consistently demonstrated exemplary support in creating accessible and inclusive spaces which enable meaningful participation of Persons With Disabilities in community life. SM Cares was further noted as an instrumental force in promoting awareness, accessibility and equal opportunities for the sector, generously opening mall spaces nationwide as venues for various disability-related events, fostering visibility, and engagement.

About SM Supermalls 

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. Every Filipino has an SM story. For generations, SM has been more than a place to shop. It has become part of everyday Filipino life, a place where families gather, friendships grow, milestones are celebrated, passions are discovered, and communities come together. As Filipinos’ lifestyles continue to evolve, SM continues to transform its destinations through My SM creating malls that are more connected, experiential, and meaningful, while remaining the place Filipinos know, trust, and call home. My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall. 

About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.

Discover, Dine, and Play: Cebu’s Growing Collection of Destination Attractions Captivates Travelers

Discover fun and adventure at Cebu Fun Park, one of the featured attractions within the SM Seaside Complex that brings recreation and leisure together in one destination. 

Cebu continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the country's most dynamic travel destinations, offering visitors a diverse mix of attractions, experiences, and activities that go beyond its renowned beaches and heritage sites. As part of its SM for Cebu commitment, the most-loved SM malls in Cebu continue to bring together shopping, dining, entertainment, recreation, and leisure experiences, giving both locals and visitors a maxed-out experience and more ways to discover, dine, play, and make the most of their time in the province.

At SM City Cebu, visitors can experience a vibrant urban destination where shopping, dining, entertainment, and recreation come together in one convenient location. From leading fashion and lifestyle brands to the latest in technology, beauty, home, and everyday essentials, SM City Cebu curates one of the city's most comprehensive retail destinations, making it a preferred shopping hub for both locals and tourists. Food lovers can also explore the Food Hall, which brings together a diverse selection of dining concepts, offering everything from local favorites to international flavors in one vibrant culinary destination, while families and groups can enjoy friendly competition at the SM Bowling Center. For moviegoers, the Directors Club Cinema offers a premium viewing experience, while the first and only IMAX Theatre in Cebu remains a premier entertainment destination, offering audiences an unparalleled cinematic experience with cutting-edge projection and sound technology for the biggest film releases. With its central location and broad range of offerings, SM City Cebu provides visitors with a convenient way to shop, dine, be entertained, and unwind while exploring the city.

In Mandaue City, SM J Mall offers a distinctly different lifestyle experience, combining Japanese-inspired design and contemporary leisure concepts with shopping, dining, wellness, and entertainment. Visitors can explore the mall's Japanese-inspired spaces and discover dining destinations such as the Izakaya Terrace and Food Hall, offering opportunities to enjoy meals and gather with family and friends. Beyond dining, SM J Mall brings together retail, beauty and wellness, technology, and active-lifestyle experiences, creating a destination suited for both relaxation and recreation. Moviegoers can also enjoy the premium Directors Club Cinema, while the mall's curated spaces and lifestyle concepts provide visitors with a more experiential way to spend their day. Together, these offerings give SM J Mall a distinctive character within Cebu's growing collection of lifestyle destinations.

SM Skating offers an exhilarating ice-skating experience at SM Seaside City Cebu, giving visitors a space to glide, play, and enjoy memorable moments on the ice. 

SM Skating offers an exhilarating ice-skating experience at SM Seaside City Cebu, giving visitors a space to glide, play, and enjoy memorable moments on the ice. 

At SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can explore an expansive mix of retail, dining, entertainment, and leisure offerings, including the SM Bowling Center, Ice Skating, and Directors Club Cinema. Beyond the mall, the surrounding SM Seaside Complex brings together Cebu Ocean Park, Cebu Fun Park, and Thirsty Pickle, offering marine discovery, family recreation, and active sports experiences. The destination is further expanding its events and entertainment offering with the SM Seaside Cebu Arena, which hosts major concerts, sporting events, and other large-scale activities, while the upcoming SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is set to further strengthen Cebu's capacity for conventions, exhibitions, meetings, and events.

From homegrown Cebuano specialties to globally inspired cuisine, SM Supermalls bring together diverse dining experiences that celebrate Cebu’s vibrant food culture. 

Cebu's diverse dining scene adds another dimension to the visitor experience, from beloved Cebuano specialties to globally inspired cuisines. Across SM malls in Cebu, guests can discover local favorites, homegrown brands, and international restaurants, making every visit an opportunity to explore new flavors while experiencing the region's vibrant food culture. Whether enjoying the variety at the Food Hall of SM City Cebu, experiencing Japanese-inspired dining at SM J Mall, or exploring the wide range of restaurants at SM Seaside City Cebu, visitors can easily make food part of their Cebu experience.

Visitors enjoy an exciting game of pickleball at Thirsty Pickle, one of the featured lifestyle attractions within the SM Seaside Complex, offering active recreation for both beginners and experienced players.

The growing variety of attractions gives travelers more ways to spend their day, whether enjoying marine encounters and family activities, discovering new dining and lifestyle concepts, shopping, watching movies, bowling, playing pickleball, or attending concerts and major events. By bringing together diverse lifestyle, retail, dining, entertainment, and recreational experiences, these destinations contribute to Cebu's broader tourism landscape, creating more opportunities for longer visits, repeat trips, and engagement with local businesses. As Cebu's tourism landscape continues to evolve, its growing collection of attractions reinforces the province's position as one of the country's premier travel destinations, inviting visitors to discover, dine, and play while experiencing even more of what Cebu has to offer.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia's largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. For generations, SM has grown alongside Filipino communities by creating destinations where people, businesses, and opportunities come together.

Through "My SM," SM continues to evolve with the changing lifestyles and needs of Filipino communities, reimagining the mall experience through thoughtfully designed spaces, better connectivity, innovative digital conveniences, and meaningful experiences that foster connection and strengthen communities. My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

New Tables to Try, New Corners to Discover at SM Supermalls in Mindanao

Your saved list is about to get longer! 

This month, SM Supermalls is bringing even more reasons to plan that next mall trip across Mindanao. Think new cafés, fresh dining spots, and exciting brands making their debut! Here's a quick roundup of the latest openings you won't want to miss.

Let's get into the newest arrivals, shall we?

• DJI ARS (Authorized Retail Store)

Take your content creation to new heights at CDO’s first ever DJI ARS, now open at Level 3, Cyberzone, at SM CDO Downtown. Explore DJI's latest lineup of drones, action cameras, handheld gimbals, and creative imaging gear, with expert guidance to help you find the right setup, whether you're a beginner, traveler, or seasoned creator.

• Zus Coffee

Coffee lovers in Davao have something new to look forward to as Zus Coffee is soon to open their first-ever Mindanao branch at SM City Davao this September! A new great spot for your daily caffeine fix, quick breaks, or catch-ups with friends. Drop by soon at SM City Davao and be among the first in Mindanao to experience Zus!

• Abba's Rest & Cafe

Need a place to slow down for a while? Abba's Rest & Cafe, soon to open at SM CDO Downtown, offers a warm and welcoming space to enjoy comforting food, freshly prepared drinks, and meaningful conversations. Whether you're taking a break from shopping or meeting up with loved ones, it's a cozy stop worth adding to your list.

• Fat Chef Restaurant

Good food has a way of bringing everyone together, and Fat Chef Restaurant is all about generous servings and comforting flavors! Soon to open in SM CDO Downtown, it's a great spot for casual lunches, family dinners, and celebrations with friends over satisfying meals.

• Miniso Land

A whole new way to experience MINISO is soon to arrive in the Philippines! Miniso Land, soon to open at SM Lanang, marks its first-ever branch in the country. Beyond your favorite collectibles, plushies, beauty finds, and everyday essentials, the expanded concept offers immersive themed spaces and an even bigger selection of products, making every visit feel like an adventure for fans of all ages.

Every visit to the mall brings the possibility of discovering something you'll want to recommend to friends or return to with family. From new dining destinations to exciting lifestyle concepts, SM Supermalls continues to create spaces where everyday moments become memorable experiences - and that’s why this is My SM. 

Check out these latest openings and see what's new at SM Supermalls. 

Follow SM Supermalls on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook   or visit www.smsupermalls.com for updates.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia's largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. For generations, SM has grown alongside Filipino communities by creating destinations where people, businesses, and opportunities come together.

Through "My SM", SM continues to evolve with the changing lifestyles and needs of Filipino communities, reimagining the mall experience through thoughtfully designed spaces, better connectivity, innovative digital conveniences, and meaningful experiences that foster connection and strengthen communities.

My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

Award-Winning Circularity: SM Waste Free Future Transforms Closed-Loop Systems

The 2024 nationwide launch of SM Waste Free Future. 

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) received the Gold Award in the Transformation Category at the 2026 ESG Edge Impact Awards for its SM Waste Free Future initiative. The Transformation Category celebrates businesses and organizations that have significantly improved and evolved overall sustainability performance and operational models over time. 

From Vision to Transformation 

Through a collaborative ecosystem of stakeholders working toward a common goal, the shared commitment of a waste-free future reflects the SM way of creating meaningful and lasting impact. The launch of SM Waste Free Future in 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia marked the start of the group-wide initiative on waste circularity and standardized waste segregation across SM properties. 

At the core of the initiative is the belief that lasting waste reduction begins with everyday behavior. Applying the theory of change, the program started with observations of daily waste generation and an assessment of existing segregation systems. This was followed by the deployment of the three-bin waste system: Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC) bins, which make segregation easier and more accessible, helping reinforce positive daily habits over time. 

Early days of employee engagement and awareness-building. 

Closing the loop, however, requires more than improving waste management practices. In 2025, a year after its launch, SM Prime achieved an 80% diversion rate for non-hazardous waste away from landfills. Achieving this level of diversion means sustained commitment and strategic investment in the program.

 

A key enabler is SM GUUN Environmental Company, Inc. (SGECI), a waste-to-fuel facility in Consolacion, Cebu, that transforms disposable waste into alternative fuel for major cement manufacturers such as Holcim and APO Cement, advancing both waste diversion and circularity goals by keeping materials in productive use. 

SGECI’s expanded ecosystem includes Asia Brewery, PetValue, Nature Springs, and Concreat to recover, process, and repurpose waste materials generated across SM properties and smaller businesses in the area. It has processed more than 6,000 metric tons of waste in 2025, helping divert valuable resources away from landfills. 

Through SGECI, SM Prime invests in critical waste infrastructure to help the country address its waste challenges. 

Turning circularity into movement 

Behind every framework, however, lies the collective action critical to any program. SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, leverages its social media presence to engage communities, especially the youth, in active participation toward a waste-free future. Last year's International Coastal Cleanup had 48,000 volunteers – the largest gathering of coastal warriors to date.  

“Creating a waste-free future requires everyone to play a role—from employees and partner-tenants to local governments, communities, and customers. It is always a challenge at the start, but I’m proud of how far we have come. By working together, we can turn waste challenges into opportunities for positive environmental impact.” ~Engr. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls VP for Compliance and Sustainability.

(In photo) SM Prime representatives with Engr. Liza B. Silerio (left middle), SM Supermalls VP for Compliance and Sustainability; Dr. Louernie de Sales (right middle), SM Prime VP for Sustainability and President of SGECI; Ms. Katrina Dalusong (leftmost), Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Director for Group Sales; and Philippine Daily Inquirer Business Section Editor, Ms. Tina Arceo-Dumlao (rightmost).

“This recognition reflects the power of collaboration in attempting to do what is impossible. The award belongs to everyone who has contributed to the journey. It demonstrates that when we unite behind a common purpose, we can achieve transformation at scale.” ~Louernie de Sales, SM Prime VP for Sustainability and President of SGECI

Championed by the SM Green Movement, the SM Waste Free Future continues to advance SM Prime's circular economy practices by bringing together employees, tenants, partners, and communities behind a shared vision of responsible waste circularity.