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SMDC Nature Opens Visayas Hub in Iloilo, Strengthening Regional Presence

By
PhilSociety
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SMDC executives and local partners gather for the opening of the Nature Visayas Hub in Iloilo City. (From Left: Edwin Yabut, Vice President, Head of Planning, Innovation and Design; Erickberth N. Calupe, Senior Vice President, Head of Property Management; Hiyasmin Isiderio, Assistant Vice President, Regional Operations Head, SM Supermalls; Jessica Bianca T. Sy, Vice President, Head of Design, Innovation and Strategy; Councilor Miguel Treñas, Iloilo City; Susan G. Nicdao, Vice President, Head of Nature Segment; and Pam De Guzman, Assistant Vice President, Project Development and Management)

The new hub strengthens SMDC Nature’s footprint in the Visayas, bringing its community-centered approach closer to one of the country’s most dynamic regional markets.

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) has opened its SMDC Nature Visayas Hub in Iloilo City, marking a significant step in the company’s continued expansion beyond Metro Manila and its commitment to serve more homebuyers in key regional centers.

Located at SM Strata Tower 2 along Benigno Aquino Avenue, the new hub provides a dedicated regional space for SMDC Nature, the company’s segment focused on creating more balanced, livable, and thoughtfully designed residential communities.

More than a sales office, the Visayas Hub serves as SMDC Nature’s regional anchor in Western Visayas. It operates as a full-service hub with customer service and back-end support functions, bringing SMDC closer to existing homeowners, prospective buyers, local partners, and communities. This enables the company to respond more directly to the way people in the region live, move, and plan for the future.

“The opening of the SMDC Nature Visayas Hub is about presence with purpose,” said Jessica Bianca T. Sy, Vice President and Head of Design, Innovation and Strategy. “It allows us to be closer to the region, more responsive to local needs, and more intentional in how we build communities that support everyday life.”

Hub in Iloilo City, including welcome remarks by Jessica Bianca T. Sy, the ribbon-cutting ceremony, blessing, and symbolic activities marking the company’s growing presence in the Visayas.

Iloilo plays a strategic role in SMDC’s regional growth. With its strong local identity, steady economic momentum, and continued urban development, the city has become an important market for thoughtfully planned residential communities that prioritize accessibility, convenience, and quality of life.

SMDC’s growing portfolio in the Visayas includes Glade Residences and Style Residences in Iloilo, as well as Smile Residences and Parkville in Bacolod. These developments reflect the company’s broader commitment to building accessible, well-connected communities that respond to the needs of modern Filipino families.

SMDC Nature carries the segment principle “Where Nature Lives,” guiding developments that feel more open, more breathable, and more aligned with everyday routines. Its communities are designed to support a more balanced way of living, with spaces that allow residents to move, gather, recharge, and grow.

“SMDC Nature has always been about creating communities that feel connected to how people want to live today,” said Susan G. Nicdao, Vice President and Head of the Nature Segment. “With our stronger presence in the Visayas, we are able to bring that vision closer to more homebuyers, creating homes that are accessible, livable, and meaningful.”

With the opening of the Visayas Hub, SMDC Nature reinforces its role in shaping residential communities beyond Metro Manila, bringing its thoughtful approach to more regions and more Filipino families.

To learn more, visit www.smdc.com or call the SMDC Hotline at (02) 8858-0300.

BingoPlus boosts the fun and entertainment at Neon Music Festival

By
PhilSociety
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BingoPlus mascot BingBing takes the stage at the Neon Music Festival

The country’s number one and most trusted online entertainment platform BingoPlus multiplied the fun and entertainment at the recently concluded Neon Music Festival 2026 held on April 11 at SM Fairview in Quezon City.

A tenant of its offline operations in the mall, BingoPlus joined the festivities by partnering with event organizers and setting up an interactive booth aimed at connecting with a younger audience.

The DigiPlus-owned platform brought some of its popular games on-site, including the Color Game, Spin the Wheel, and Slot Machine, giving festivalgoers a chance to play and win exclusive BingoPlus merchandise.

Partygoers took home BingoPlus merchandise by visiting the booth

Complementing the high-energy performances on stage, the BingoPlus booth added another layer of fun and engagement, helping make this year’s Neon Music Festival a resounding success.

The BingoPlus booth at the Neon Music Festival 2026

About DigiPlus

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced the leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging interactive gaming and sports entertainment experiences. DigiPlus also operates GameZone, with more to come. For more information visit www.digiplus.com.ph.

About BingoPlus

BingoPlus is the Philippines’ leading and most comprehensive digital entertainment platform. It has redefined digital gaming in the country. Launched in January 2022, it introduced the first-ever interactive, live-streaming digital bingo platform. BingoPlus is an affiliate of DigiPlus Interactive Corp. and is an advocate for responsible gaming. BingoPlus is licensed by the PAGCOR. For more information, visit www.bingoplus.com.

Rakuten Viki Unlocks Full Season of Phantom Lawyer for Free Streaming Following Breakout Success

By
PhilSociety
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Chart-topping legal fantasy drama Phantom Lawyer becomes fully available for free on Rakuten Viki 

Rakuten Viki, the global streaming destination for Asian entertainment, announced on April 24 expanded access to Phantom Lawyer, making the series available to stream for free with ads across Southeast Asia. 

Ahead of the May 2 finale, episodes 1–14 of Phantom Lawyer are available on Viki through its advertising-based video-on-demand (AVOD) offering. Beginning May 2, all 16 episodes will be released, allowing both new and returning viewers to enjoy the complete season without a subscription.

The decision follows strong performance across Southeast Asia, where the legal fantasy drama debuted at No. 1 on regional charts in viewership during its first week and has maintained a Top 3 ranking for six consecutive weeks– including five straight weeks at No.1 in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore. The series currently holds a 9.6/10 viewer rating, reflecting sustained widespread appeal across the region.

“What makes Phantom Lawyer resonate is how it pairs compelling cases with a deeper emotional core,” said Karen Paek, Vice President of Marketing at Rakuten Viki. “As audiences spend more time with the series, that balance becomes even more meaningful. Making the full season available for free allows more viewers to experience that journey from start to finish.”

Led by Yoo Yeon Seok and Esom, Phantom Lawyer follows Shin Yi Rang, a timid lawyer who gains the ability to see and communicate with restless spirits after moving into an office once owned by a shaman. As he takes on cases tied to unresolved grievances, Yi Rang navigates a mix of legal challenges, supernatural encounters, and personal transformation.

The series has also drawn attention for Yoo Yeon Seok’s range in portraying Yi Rang’s evolving character, balancing comedic timing with emotional depth. This mix has helped the show stand out among recent legal dramas, particularly among audiences seeking more layered storytelling.

“I’m excited for fans to see how each case concludes. There is a real sense of satisfaction in seeing the spirits find peace, and in watching Yi-rang grow through those encounters,” said Yoo Yeon Seok. “It’s not just a ghost story or a courtroom battle. You might come for the comedy, but you’ll stay for the emotional reflection on life and death.”

By opening the full season to free streaming, Rakuten Viki creates a wider entry point for new viewers while allowing existing audiences to revisit the series in full. The move reflects a growing preference for more flexible, accessible ways to engage with content across the region.

With strong momentum in Southeast Asia, the expanded availability of Phantom Lawyer is expected to further extend its reach and introduce the series to a broader audience.

Phantom Lawyer is now available to stream for free on the Rakuten Viki app or online across viewers in Southeast Asian countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. 

Visit www.viki.com to watch.

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Appoints Sherwin Lucas as General Manager of SMX Convention Center and Upcoming SMXCITE

By
PhilSociety
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SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. welcomes a new chapter in leadership. Sherwin Lucas steps in as General Manager of SMX Convention Center Manila and SMXCITE.

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) announces the appointment of Mr. Sherwin Lucas as General Manager of SMX Convention Center Manila and SMXCITE (SMX Center for International Trade and Exhibitions), the company’s new landmark venue which is slated to open in 2027 within the Mall of Asia Complex.

A proven leader within the SMHCC brand portfolio, Mr. Lucas previously served as Area General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod since 2021, where he consistently delivered strong business results, enhanced operational excellence, and elevated guest satisfaction while steering both properties toward significant industry recognitions.

With over two decades of distinguished leadership in the hospitality industry, Sherwin brings a wealth of expertise to the SMX brand and endeavors to continuously elevate its presence both locally and internationally. He began his career as an Operations Supervisor at Olympia Courtyard Suites before advancing through key leadership roles across international markets. Prior to joining SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., he served as Director of Events Service at Sheraton Grand Macao and The St. Regis Macao, where he received the APAC Regional Event Leadership Award in 2016. Sherwin holds degrees in Commerce from the University of Muntinlupa and the University of the Philippines, further strengthened by extensive international training in leadership and management, which is an educational and professional foundation that reflects his strategic and operational depth as a leader. 

Strategically located in the Mall of Asia Complex, SMX Convention Center Manila has been hosting world-class events and shaping the future of meetings, exhibitions, and global connections since 2007.

“In my new role, I am committed to lead SMX Convention Center Manila’s continued growth by driving excellence across operations, innovation, and exceptional client experiences, while helping reinforce its leadership as the Philippines’ largest convention center operator and a key force in the M.I.C.E. industry. I also look forward to help shape the successful opening and establishment of SMXCITE in 2027, ensuring its positioning as a world-class hub for international trade, exhibitions, and large-scale events that will further strengthen the Philippines’ role in the global MICE landscape,” said Mr. Lucas. 

With his appointment, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. reaffirms its commitment to advancing world-class M.I.C.E. destinations in the Philippines, while strengthening its portfolio of convention and exhibition venues, and supporting the continued growth of the country’s business tourism industry.

About SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC)

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) is the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc.

Currently, the SMHCC portfolio is comprised of ten (10) hotel properties with a combined inventory of more than 2,600 rooms and over 42,000 sqm. of leasable convention space. The list of properties under SMHCC includes Taal Vista Hotel, Pico Sands Hotel, Conrad Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Radisson Blu Cebu, Park Inn by Radisson Clark, Park Inn by Radisson Davao, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod, and the SMX Convention Centers (SMX Manila, SMX Aura, SMX Bacolod, SMX Davao, Olongapo City Convention Center, SMX Clark) and trade halls (Megatrade Hall and Sky Hall Seaside Cebu).

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/ 

Miss Universe China historic visit in the Philippines: An Illuminating Pageant and Cultural Experience

By
PhilSociety
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Miss Universe Asia 2025 Zhao Na

History unfolds as Miss Universe China experiences the Philippine Pageantry through its official visit in the Philippines, understanding the country’s vibrant and renowned pageant culture.

Known as one of the most influential and strongest in the pageant scene, the Miss Universe Philippines welcomes Miss Universe China’s National Director, Owen Chue and Miss Universe Asia 2025, Zhao Na, with utmost hospitality. The delegation are treated to a significant discovery of cultural exchanges and great appreciation of Philippine heritage, tradition and tourism. 

“On behalf of the Miss Universe China organization, I would like to extend my warmest welcome and sincere gratitude to all the friends who always support us,” tells Owen Chue, Miss Universe China’s National Director. 

Since the establishment of Miss Universe China in 2023, the team has traveled to different countries and he revealed his realization about it. “It’s not about travel but it’s about spreading love, charity, and the mission of the Miss Universe,” shares Owen Chue. 

During the press conference, Queenie, from the China Organization of Miss Universe, conveyed  her appreciation as well as her hopes about the shared ties between China and the Philippines for Miss Universe. 

“Let us join hands to enjoy this global beauty, ensuring that the beautiful friendship between China and the Philippines shines brightly on the world stage. I am confident that this mutual exchange will proceed smoothly and I look forward to more in-depth cooperation in the future,” says Queenie.  

Meanwhile Miss Universe Asia 2025 Zhao Na expressed her happiness and admiration for visiting the Philippines. 

“I have always admired the Philippines for its excellence and passion for pageantry,” reveals Zhao Na, Miss Universe Asia 2025. 

These very important guests from Miss Universe China will be part of the upcoming coronation night of the Miss Universe Philippines happening on May 2, 2026. This will elevate the celebratory atmosphere of this year’s Miss Universe Philippines, making it a momentous and remarkable event for both organizations. 

Miss Universe China visit in the Philippines emphasizes the organization’s interest in experiencing and understanding firsthand the Philippine pageant culture that showcases strong production value, passionate audience and world-class candidates. Furthermore, it strengthens the connection among international pageant communities, celebrating shared values of beauty, sisterhood, empowerment, and culture on the global stage. 

VIKA Premium Activewear Debuts in the Philippines with “VIKA Her Game,” Igniting a New Era of Women’s Sportswear

By
PhilSociety
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At the VIKA Her Game launch. Seated (from left): VIKA Sports Consultant Andrea Stevens; event host and sports news reporter Doreen Suaybaguio; and award-winning actress, former volleyball coach, and VIKA Brand Ambassador Pat Tinghuy. Standing (from left): VIKA CEO Ronald Villamin and VIKA Officer Sam Villamin together with the pickleball participants.

Designed exclusively for women who move, play, and empower, VIKA introduces performance-driven activewear that blends athlete-level engineering with elevated everyday style.

VIKA, a new premium women’s activewear brand, officially launches in the Philippines with “VIKA Her Game,” a women-led pickleball invitational held at Athlete Central PH, OAX Complex in Cainta, Rizal.

The launch marks VIKA’s entry into the local market with a clear proposition: to redefine women’s sportswear through performance innovation, refined design, and a deep understanding of how women move cross sport, training, and everyday life.

“Our mission is simple: to create activewear that truly understands women,” said Ronald Villamin, CEO VIKA sportswear. “Every piece is designed to empower women to move and lead with confidence, without compromising on comfort, function, or style.”    

Highlights from the VIKA Her Game pickleball tournament. Seated (from left): VIKA Officers Katelyn and Sam Villamin, pickleball players Alyssa Pascual and Valerie Chavez, and VIKA Ambassador Pat Tinghuy. Standing: VIKA CEO Ronald Villamin (3rd from left), Lito Diana (extreme right) with tournament awardees.

Built for Women in Motion

Rooted in the belief that every woman is an athlete in her own right, VIKA creates apparel designed to support movement in all forms—from training and running to recovery and daily routines. The debut collection features tailored fits with breathable, high-performance fabrics designed for all-day wear.

To ensure the best performance, each piece was developed in collaboration with Filipina athletes, trainers, runners, yogis, and lifestyle creators, refining the collection to meet every move.

More than apparel, VIKA positions itself as a movement, celebrating women who redefine the limits and move with confidence     .

“VIKA Her Game”: Sport, Style, and Community

The launch event, “VIKA Her Game,” brings together approximately 200 guests, including athletes, media, influencers, and active lifestyle communities.

The experience centers on a women-led pickleball tournament, elevated by immersive brand activations, VIP hospitality, and live content captured through dedicated media and influencer engagement.

More than a product launch, the event serves as a platform to celebrate women in motion, on and off the court.

Cinemalaya award-winning actress and “Rookie” star Pat Tinghuy, VIKA’s official Brand Ambassador, takes the court in full action—showcasing the brand’s refined design and performance-driven engineering at the VIKA Her Game launch.

Powered by Purposeful Partnerships

Supporting the launch are brand partners aligned with VIKA’s mission to elevate women’s performance and lifestyle:

  • Onward – providing Future-Forward solutions for your audio, video, automation needs.
  • Banana Boat Sunblock – providing trusted sun protection for women performing under active outdoor conditions. 
  • Mars Chocolates – bringing happiness closer to every Juan. Sneakers – “You’re not you when you’re hungry.” Double mint – “The unique minty flavor you can’t get anywhere else.”

Together, these partnerships extend VIKA beyond apparel into a complete performance lifestyle ecosystem.

A New Game for Women

At its core, VIKA’s campaign is anchored in a simple belief: women are no longer playing within the limits set for them—they are redefining the game entirely.

For more info on VIKA: visit https://vikasports.co/,  https://www.facebook.com/vikasports.co/
or https://www.instagram.com/vikasports.co/, https://www.tiktok.com/@vikasports.co

Seattle’s Best Coffee Unveils the new Mango Coco Milkshake Collection

By
PhilSociety
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Sweet mango flavor meets light & refreshing coconut in a new collection from Seattle’s Best Coffee. The Mango Coco Milkshake Collection takes this exciting pairing and turns it into a smooth, flavorful experience built for indulgence and refreshment in every sip.

At the heart of the collection is the balance between the rich sweetness of mango and the light, refreshing notes of coconut. Each milkshake is crafted to deliver an exciting taste that feels both vibrant and satisfying bringing together comfort and refreshing feel.

The Mango Coco Milkshake Collection features three distinct variants, each offering its own unique twist:

• Classic Mango Coco – A creamy blend of mango ice cream and coconut water, delivering a smooth, well-balanced drink with a bright finish.

• Mango Coco Crisp – Topped with coconut crisps for an added layer of texture, giving every sip a subtle crunch that complements the creamy base.

• Mango Coco Chia – A more indulgent option finished with coconut crisps and chia seeds, offering a richer, more textured take on the original blend.

Crafted for everyday enjoyment, the collection is designed to suit a range of preferences from those who enjoy something light and refreshing to those looking for a more indulgent treat. With its vibrant flavor profile, the Mango Coco Milkshake Collection delivers a refreshing take on two familiar favorites.

Launching on April 27, the Mango Coco Milkshake Collection will be available for a limited time in all Seattle’s Best Coffee stores nationwide. Enjoy it for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru and delivery via Grabfood and Foodpanda.

Stay updated by following Seattle’s Best Coffee on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

You Can Now Own a Dyson Airwrap Without Paying Upfront with Salmon

By
PhilSociety
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If the Dyson Airwrap has been sitting on your wish list for far too long, consider this your sign to finally make that big purchase without hurting your wallet. 

Now, owning this highly sought after styling tool doesn’t have to feel like a splurge you need to keep postponing. With Salmon Product Loan, you can finally say yes to your dream hair tool, without paying for it all upfront.

Good hair days, made easier

Instead of waiting months (or longer) to justify the purchase, you can take home your Dyson Airwrap today, which is currently priced at PHP 36,900.00, and pay for it in manageable monthly installments. It’s a smarter, more flexible way to invest in a tool you’ll actually use every day.

Applying is simple and seamless. With the help of a Salmon Ambassador in Dyson stores nationwide, you can apply for a Salmon Product Loan for your purchase and get approval in as fast as one minute. From there, you can enjoy flexible payment terms of up to 24 months, with downpayment starting at 0%. Repayments can be done completely online, making the entire experience convenient and hassle-free. 

It doesn’t stop at great hair

The Dyson Airwrap™ may be the star of the show, but it’s just one of many ways to upgrade your everyday routine. From powerful cordless vacuums that make cleaning feel less like a chore, to advanced air purifiers that help create a fresher, healthier home, Dyson’s innovations are designed to elevate daily living.

With Salmon Product Loan, these upgrades becomes just as accessible, letting you invest in both beauty and home essentials without the pressure of a one-time payment.

For more information about Salmon Product Loans, visit salmon.ph.

Terms and Conditions apply. Salmon Credit is a product offered by Salmon Finance Inc. LoanOnline, powered by the Salmon app, serves as the online lending platform for Sunprime Finance Inc. a licensed financing company regulated by the SEC with CA No. 1241 and CR No. CS201916698.

Mindful Snacking: Making Labels Work for Your Well-Being

By
PhilSociety
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Mondelez International's recent event features Philippine Association of Nutrition president Arlene Reario (center) and nutritionist-dietitian Jo Sebastian (right).

In a world that constantly asks more of us, from navigating daily routines to facing broader challenges, finding moments of comfort, connection, and mindfulness is more important than ever. Snacking, a beloved part of Filipino life, often serves as a quick pick-me-up or a shared moment with loved ones. It’s in these everyday moments that we find a unique opportunity to become more present and intentional about how we nourish ourselves. It’s the right time to Snack Mindfully. 

Recognizing this, Mondelēz International, in partnership with trusted and registered nutritionist-dietitian Jo Sebastian, held a recent event designed to empower Filipinos to transform “mindless” snacking habits into truly #MindfulSnacking experiences, making every bite a #SnackNaSwak moment for overall well-being.

Mindful Snacking: Avoiding Overindulgence and Choosing What’s Right for You 

At its core, mindful snacking is a simple yet profound idea: choosing and savoring snacks with attention and intention. It’s about finding that sweet spot between enjoyment and wellness, leading to satisfaction and increased awareness of what and how much we consume. This practice supports both body and mind, helping individuals make smart choices that contribute positively to their well-being. 

Snacking is  one of life’s simplest pleasures. Whether it’s a quick bite to refuel, a quiet pause in a busy day, or a shared merienda with friends and family. It slips easily into our routines, offering both comfort and connection. In many ways, it nourishes not just the body, but the small moments in between. 

It is almost second nature to reach for a quick pick-me-up at certain times of the day, and because snacking comes so easily, it is a good opportunity to become more present in the way we choose and enjoy what we eat.

A Shift Toward Intentional Choices

As more Filipinos become more proactive and intentional about their well-being, there is a natural shift toward making more informed food decisions. Taste and convenience remain non-negotiable but they are now joined by a desire for understanding of portions, of ingredients, and of balance.

Without this awareness, even everyday indulgences can feel uncertain. Nutrition labels go unread, portion sizes become guesswork, and the line between enjoyment and overindulgence blurs. What emerges is not a lack of enjoyment, but a lack of clarity.

Recognizing this, Mondelēz International, in partnership with registered nutritionist-dietitian and content creator Jo Sebastian, introduced “Snack na Swak”, an initiative designed to  navigate their snack choices with confidence, transforming “mindless” habits into “mindful” experiences. This is anchored on reading nutrition labels – and understanding them, choosing the right portions for snacks, and enjoying your snacks fully by being present in the moment. 

(From left) Mondelez International managing director Aleli Arcilla, Arlene Reario, Jo Sebastian and Mondelez Philippines corporate and government affairs lead Caitlin Punzalan

Understanding Mindful Snacking

For Mondelēz International, this philosophy reflects a deeper understanding of how people live and eat. Snacking is not separate from daily life, as it supports both body and mind. Making mindful snacking accessible, therefore, means making it easy to understand, practical to apply, and enjoyable to sustain.

In a live session recently held at the Common Ground in Rockwell, Jo Sebastian guided participants through hands-on activities such as the “Portion Puzzle,” where guests learned how to read nutrition labels, manage portion sizes, and create snack combinations that stay within a mindful 250-calorie range. This supports data from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST), which says each snack must be within the 250 calorie range. The takeaway was clear: balance isn’t about saying “no” to your favorite treats; it’s about knowing how they fit into your day.

Arlene Reario, President of the Philippine Association of Nutrition (PAN) also supported this message. Reario agrees that through clearer and informative packaging, portion-controlled options, and continuous product innovation, Filipinos can make informed, mindful choices.

Balance in Familiar Favorites
There is no need to give up the snacks that bring comfort and delight. An iconic twist of Oreo cookies, the creamy taste of Cadbury Dairy Milk, or the crisp bite of Tiger Energy Biscuits can still be part of a balanced lifestyle. By approaching these favorites with intention, they become more than just a quick bite—they become a conscious act of self-care. Very crucial when other things are out of your control.  

By combining education with meaningful engagement, Mindful Snacking empowers Filipinos to embrace a holistic relationship with food. Every treat can truly be #SnackNaSwak: simple, satisfying, and thoughtfully enjoyable. 

SMDC brings solar power to Iloilo with first renewable energy energization in the Visayas

By
PhilSociety
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From Left: Solar Power Energization Ceremony (From left to right: SMDC Executives Erickberth N. Calupe, Senior Vice President, Head of Property Management; Jessica Bianca T. Sy, Vice President, Head of Design, Innovation, and Strategy; Susan G. Nicdao, Vice President, Head of Nature Segment; and Henry Layug, Vice President, Sales, Buskowitz Energy and Edwin Yabut, Vice President, Head of Planning, Innovation and Design)

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) marks Earth Day 2026 with a milestone in Iloilo City, officially activating its first renewable energy system in the Visayas at Style Residences.

Marking a significant step in bringing sustainable living beyond Metro Manila, SM Development Corporation (SMDC) officially energized its first renewable energy system in the Visayas at Style Residences in Iloilo City on April 22, 2026.

The solar energization signals an important step in SMDC’s broader sustainability agenda—one that brings renewable energy into the daily operations of residential communities and expands that effort beyond Metro Manila.

Expanding sustainable living beyond the capital

The activation at Style Residences forms part of SMDC’s broader renewable energy rollout, following its partnership with Buskowitz Energy formalized in October 2025.

The initiative covers four pilot developments—Style Residences, Spring Residences, South Residences, and Vine Residences—with three located in Metro Manila and one in the Visayas.

By launching its first energization in Iloilo, SMDC underscores its commitment to making sustainable living more accessible across regional communities—not just within major urban centers.

Powering SMDC Style Residences with clean, solar energy

From concept to everyday impact

With the system now operational, solar energy will help support electricity requirements for parts of the property used every day, including lighting and shared facilities.

These developments are expected to reduce energy consumption by approximately 15 percent, helping improve operational efficiency and better manage the portion of association dues allocated to electricity expenses over time.

A shift in how communities are powered

More than a milestone, the energization reflects a broader shift in how residential communities are designed and managed.

“Sustainability becomes more meaningful when people actually experience it in their daily lives,” said Jessica Bianca Sy.“Bringing this to Iloilo is a step toward making that experience more inclusive—so more communities can benefit from how we design and operate our developments.”

“This energization demonstrates how renewable energy can be seamlessly integrated into residential developments and scaled beyond major urban centers,” said James Carlos P. Buskowitz.

“Projects like Style Residences show that solar solutions can support everyday operations efficiently, while helping communities transition to more sustainable energy use.”

Scaling forward

Following the energization of Style Residences, similar systems across the remaining pilot developments are set to be activated as part of SMDC’s ongoing rollout.

Building on this initiative, SMDC also announced that renewable energy integration will become a standard feature across all future SMDC Nature developments—further advancing its commitment to environmentally responsible communities.

This direction aligns with the broader sustainability goals of SM Prime Holdings, reinforcing efforts to reduce environmental impact while enhancing everyday living across its residential portfolio.

Stye Residences – Amenity Area, Building B

Sustainability, now part of everyday life

As urban living continues to evolve, initiatives like these highlight a growing shift in how residential communities are designed and managed.

At SMDC, sustainability is no longer positioned as a separate feature—but as part of how communities function every day.

From powering shared spaces to supporting more efficient operations, renewable energy is becoming an integral part of how residents experience modern living.

To learn more about SMDC Nature, visit www.smdcnature.com, email inquiries@smdevelopment.com, or call their hotline at 0917-555-7632 | 0917-777-7632.

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