Rossopomodoro's first-ever branch in Asia debuts at the SM Mall of Asia

The irresistible aroma of freshly baked dough, the rich tang of slow-simmered tomato sauce, and the creamy indulgence of delicate milky mozzarella----all come together in perfect harmony. This is the unmistakable experience of Rossopomodoro-----the largest pizza chain in Italy, as it officially opens its first-ever branch in Asia at the SM Mall of Asia.

With the arrival of Rossopomodoro’s very first branch in Asia, diners can finally experience the authentic flavor of Naples and true Italian culinary craftsmanship through a signature blend of fresh ingredients, time-honored traditions, and a carefully curated selection of authentic wood-fired pizza. 

A pizza-cutting ceremony opened Rossopomodoro’s grand launch at SM Mall of Asia last February 23, 2025, celebrating Italian heritage and flavor while marking the start of a new culinary journey for Filipino diners. Guests got their hands doughy as they experienced firsthand the art of crafting the perfect bite–kneading traditional Neapolitan dough from scratch under the guidance of Italian pizzaiolos. Rossopomodoro takes pride in its long-standing culinary traditions and fresh, high-quality ingredients, crafting pizzas, pastas, and Italian specialties that have earned it a place among the world’s most recognized pizzerias. 

Guests indulged their senses in a vibrant setting filled with free-flowing drinks, live DJ music, and a feast of Rossopomodoro’s world-famous signature dishes. The Pizza Verace, topped with San Marzano tomatoes and creamy mozzarella di bufala, delivered the rich, classic flavors of Naples, while the Pizza Reginella delighted with its fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil. For pasta lovers, the Linguine Gamberi e Limone offered a bright, zesty combination of succulent shrimp and citrus-infused olive oil—each dish a true taste of Italy’s finest culinary traditions."

Rossopomodoro’s first branch in Asia joins an ever-growing list of first-in-market dining concepts that have chosen SM as their Philippine home. From New York’s finest burgers to Japan’s most sought-after ramen, SM continues to lead the way in bringing global flavors to Filipino diners.

SM Supermalls prides itself for being the Home of Firsts. It continues to open new experiences for Filipinos, bringing them closer to world-class dining experiences. With more international brands arriving soon, SM remains the country’s top destination for discovering world-class dining experiences.

Visit Rossopomodoro at Level 1, North Entertainment Mall in SM Mall of Asia and enjoy a true taste of Naples. Do follow @SMSupermalls on social media or log onto twww.smsupermalls.com for more exciting first-to-market brands.

 

Burger & Lobster debuts at SM Supermalls

Manila’s food scene is about to get a major upgrade. Global dining sensation Burger & Lobster is finally making its Philippine debut at SM, the #HomeofFirsts, bringing its world-famous wild-caught lobsters and prime cut burgers to Manila’s most discerning foodies, ready to redefine casual dining with a premium feel in the country.

The London-based sensation started and found its success by focusing on two ingredients—perfecting them with precision and passion. By mastering the art of crafting exceptional burgers and cooking wild-caught lobsters to perfection, Burger & Lobster became a dining institution, drawing in food lovers from New York to Dubai, Singapore, and beyond. The result? Burgers toooooo good. Lobsters sooooo good. You’ll question your whole life after just one bite. Now, it's Manila’s turn to get #OfficiallyObsessed.

An Unapologetically Bold Dining Experience 

With a modern yet welcoming atmosphere, a passion for top-quality ingredients, and a menu built on expertise and simplicity, Burger & Lobster isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a destination. Manila’s young professionals, food lovers, and trend-conscious diners will find themselves coming back, not just for the food, but for the experience that comes with every bite.

Burger & Lobster at SM Aura delivers more than delightful meals but a laid-back yet luxurious dining experience that fits perfectly into Manila’s dynamic food scene. Whether it’s a long-awaited indulgence, a spontaneous craving, or a new go-to spot, every visit is designed to be an explosion of rich, bold flavors—each bite delivering pure, unfiltered satisfaction, because life’s too short for boring bites!

Burger & Lobster will take you on an adventure with their dishes like The Burger, featuring 100% prime beef grilled to perfection in a brioche bun with their secret sauce; The Lobster, a whole Canadian lobster served grilled or steamed; and The Lobster Roll, a buttery brioche roll filled with succulent lobster meat and Japanese mayo,  crafted with their signature dedication to quality and bold flavors. Each plate promises a memorable and decadent experience, making it clear why this brand has become a global favorite.

Join the Obsession!

Manila has been hungry for something fresh, exciting, and obsessively satisfying—and Burger & Lobster is finally here to deliver. One thing is certain—once you taste Burger & Lobster, there’s no going back. Bite in, dress up, and get ready to #SERVE and be #OfficiallyObsessed.

At SM Supermalls, we take pride in bringing the best of the world to Filipino food lovers—from first-to-market brands to groundbreaking dining experiences that redefine what it means to have it all. With Burger & Lobster’s arrival at SM Aura, we continue to curate a lineup of iconic global brands, offering one-of-a-kind culinary experiences for those who crave adventure on a plate.

Don’t miss out on the obsession—visit Burger & Lobster at SM Aura, Ground Floor today!

Stay updated! Follow @burgerandlobsterph on Instagram for exclusive content and sneak peeks. For more exciting first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

SM brings in global dining sensation Burger & Lobster to redefine Manila's casual dining with a premium feel. Its world-famous wild-caught lobsters and prime cut burgers have finally made its Philippine debut at SM Aura.

The London-based sensation focused on two ingredients—perfecting them with precision and passion. It brought a new spin to tradition and found success by mastering the art of crafting exceptional burgers and cooking wild-caught lobsters to perfection! And so Burger & Lobster became a dining institution, drawing in food lovers from New York to Dubai, Singapore, and beyond. The Burgers are immaculately good. Lobsters create a showstopper spread that are guaranteed to please! Some things are just meant to be together!

An Unapologetically Bold Dining Experience 

With a modern yet welcoming atmosphere, a passion for top-quality ingredients, and a menu built on expertise and simplicity, Burger & Lobster isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a destination. Manila’s young professionals, food lovers, and trend-conscious diners will find themselves coming back, not just for the food, but for the experience that comes with every bite.

Burger & Lobster at SM Aura delivers more than delightful meals but a laid-back yet luxurious dining experience that fits perfectly into Manila’s dynamic food scene. Whether it’s a long-awaited indulgence, a spontaneous craving, or a new go-to spot, every visit is designed to be an explosion of rich, bold flavors—each bite delivering pure, unfiltered satisfaction, because life’s too short for boring bites!

Burger & Lobster will take you on an adventure with their dishes like The Burger, featuring 100% prime beef grilled to perfection in a brioche bun with their secret sauce; The Lobster, a whole Canadian lobster served grilled or steamed; and The Lobster Roll, a buttery brioche roll filled with succulent lobster meat and Japanese mayo,  crafted with their signature dedication to quality and bold flavors. Each plate promises a memorable and decadent experience, making it clear why this brand has become a global favorite.

Join the Obsession!

Manila has been hungry for something fresh, exciting, and obsessively satisfying—and Burger & Lobster is finally here to deliver. One thing is certain—once you taste Burger & Lobster, there’s no going back. Bite in, dress up, and get ready to #SERVE and be #OfficiallyObsessed.

Don’t miss out on the obsession—head on to Burger & Lobster at SM Aura, Ground Floor today!

Don’t miss out on the obsession—visit Burger & Lobster at SM Aura, Ground Floor today!

Do follow @burgerandlobsterph on Instagram for exclusive content and sneak peeks. Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media for more exciting first-to-market brands as SM continues to curate a lineup of iconic, one-of-a-kind culinary experiences for those who crave adventure on a plate.

ARISE Philippines holds its first Annual General Meeting with the theme “Catalyzing Progress for a Resilient and Sustainable Future towards ARISE 2030”

Last January 27, 2025, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE) Philippines, a leading resilience network in the country, held its first annual general meeting for 2025 at the ARISE Secretariat headquarters in MOA Square, Mall of Asia Complex. With a growing membership of 156 private sector companies, civil society groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic institutions, ARISE Philippines is poised to significantly impact disaster resilience efforts nationwide.

Multi-sector representatives attend ARISE Philippines’ first Annual General Assembly in 2025.

Under the theme “Catalyzing Progress for a Resilient and Sustainable Future towards ARISE 2030,” the meeting was grounded in the words “Innovate, Integrate, and Elevate,” urging members to embrace new approaches, collaborate across sectors, and raise the bar for disaster resilience standards. 

ARISE Philippines Board Members (from left): Dr. Ma. Teresita Medado, Sylvestre Barrameda Jr., Austere Panadero, ARISE Philippines Co-Chair Engr. Liza Silerio, ARISE Global Board Member Vice Admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama, Raymond Rufino, and Michael Rellosa (not in photo: Rosemarie Rafael and Jessica Bianca Sy)

The Co-Chair representing the private sector, Engr. Liza Silerio, welcomed the collective and expressed her gratitude for the network’s role in promoting community resilience and sustainable progress. For the public sector, Office of Civil Defense Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of engineering solutions in disaster preparedness and highlighted the critical role of committed private sector leaders in building a more resilient nation. 

Chief of Office UNDRR Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific Marco Toscano-Rivalta, in a video message, commended ARISE Philippines for its outstanding contributions to disaster risk reduction. “I extend my profound gratitude for ARISE Philippines’ exemplary leadership and contributions,” he stated. He referenced the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction held in Manila last October 2024, saying, “Your efforts were instrumental to the event’s success. ARISE has showcased the power of public-private partnerships and set the benchmark for other regions to follow.”

Member companies pledge their participation in ARISE Philippines’ seven new programs.

ARISE Global Board Member Vice Admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama, ret., was present to bolster the local network and guarantee its support to the international alliance. A highlight of the meeting was the unveiling of seven ARISE Philippines Materials and Knowledge products by the ARISE Board of Directors. These resources are designed to support members in implementing resilience-building initiatives. The meeting also included a call to action for members to actively participate in seven new programs to be initiated this year.

Mr. Hans Sy, ARISE Philippines Chairperson for the Private Sector, addresses members and observers.

In his closing remarks, ARISE Philippines Chairperson for the Private Sector Mr. Hans Sy rallied the assembled members and observers, emphasizing the importance of unity, collaboration, and action. He urged everyone to work together to “co-create bridges for resilience,” promoting a stronger and more resilient Philippines for the next generations. 

SM Prime Holdings serves as the secretariat office of the ARISE Philippines network to advocate a culture of business resilience against natural and man-made hazards. For more information, visit www.arise.ph or email secretariat@arise.ph.  

DENR, SM Prime use a 30-foot, cutting-edge, trash-collecting boat for Manila Bay cleanup

In a joint effort to combat water pollution in Manila Bay, SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime), handed over a state-of-the-art catamaran trash boat to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). DENR received the 30-foot catamaran boat last January 31, along with essential navigation and safety equipment plus necessary cleaning tools. The trash boat will be operated by the DENR Metropolitan Environmental Office - South Zone and is expected to bolster the agency's capacity to mitigate water pollution and preserve the vital marine ecosystem.

The 30-foot catamaran is designed to efficiently collect and carry up to 1 ton of waste.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga (middle) receives the symbolic key to a catamaran donated by SM Prime, boosting Manila Bay cleanup efforts.

This donation strengthens the DENR's arsenal in its multifaceted approach to cleaning Manila Bay. The catamaran will enable more efficient removal of floating debris and waste, contributing to the broader effort to improve water quality and restore the bay's ecological health. The partnership with SM Prime exemplifies the power of public-private collaborations in tackling complex environmental challenges.

"This catamaran represents our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and our belief in the power of collaboration to create a sustainable future for our communities," said SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio, emphasizing the shared vision of both organizations. SM Prime's contribution complements the DENR's ongoing initiatives, including the Paranaque Adopt-a-River project, and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving lasting environmental improvements.

From left: Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Jonas Leones, DENR National Capital Region (NCR) Regional Executive Director Michael Drake Matias, DENR Assistant Secretary and Environmental Management Bureau Director Jacqueline Caancan, SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, and SM Prime Estate Management and Development Senior Assistant Vice President Orliber Paule at the catamaran handover ceremony. 

The presence of DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga and other DENR officials emphasized the agency's commitment to leveraging partnerships to achieve its environmental goals. The catamaran will play a crucial role in the DENR's continued efforts to protect Manila Bay from pollution and preserve its valuable resources for future generations. This collaboration serves as a model for how public and private sectors can work together to address pressing environmental concerns and create a healthier environment.

Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan holds it's second leg at SM City Baguio

The much-anticipated second leg of the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan had taken place at SM City Baguio last February 19-25, 2025. It brought together an exciting array of MSMEs and community members for a dynamic shopping experience. The said collaboration between Viyline and SM aims to boost local businesses while promoting community engagement for MSMEs in the region.  

Discover unique finds and support local businesses at the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan, happening at SM City Baguio from February 19-25, 2025.

A highlight of the event will be the presence of Viy Cortez, renowned influencer and wife of popular YouTuber CONG TV. Known for her strong online following and influence, Viy Cortez will grace the opening ceremony, adding a touch of excitement and star power to the event. Her involvement in this initiative underscores the significance of the MSME Caravan as an opportunity to elevate the community.

A variety of delicious food products, like bottled Pork Sisig Barbecue, are available at the Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan, which travels to SM Supermalls nationwide.

The Viyline MSME Caravan is more than just a bazaar—it’s a collaborative effort to strengthen the local economy, support budding entrepreneurs, and celebrate the diversity and creativity of the MSME sector. By bringing together small business owners, influencers, and community members, this event nurtures deeper connections and encourages greater consumer engagement. 

The Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan cultivates a thriving MSME ecosystem through collaboration, support, and a dynamic showcase of local talent. Photo from the Viyline Media Group.

The success of the first leg of the Viyline MSME Caravan, held at SM City Bataan last January 22 - 29, 2025, has set the stage for a thrilling second installment, and this collaboration with SM City Baguio promises to take things to the next level. With the support of influential figures like Viy Cortez, the event is bound to attract a wide audience, further solidifying the importance of MSMEs in promoting community growth. 

The Viyline Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Caravan's triumphant first leg at SM City Bataan paves the way for an even more exciting continuation at SM City Baguio. Photo from the Viyline Media Group.

The caravan continues to SM City Dasmarinas from March 19-30, after its SM City Baguio stop (February 19-25, 2025). See the full schedule at www.smsupermalls.com.

SM Supernalls scales up its solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in support of DOE’s renewable energy goals

 

SM City Bataan and its 4,060-piece solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have a peak capacity of 2,376,000 kW.

The unsustainable use of natural resources has led to its depletion. With the resource scarcity comes the urgent need for renewable energy. As significant energy consumers, shopping malls have a unique opportunity to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future by adopting renewable energy solutions that can significantly reduce their environmental impact.

Understanding this, SM has been continuously ramping up its renewable energy initiatives by adopting solutions that lower its carbon footprint. One such solution is the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which provide clean and renewable energy by converting sunlight directly into electricity. This allows SM to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and contribute to a greener environment.

Expanding solar power across SM malls

As of February 2025, SM is nearing full operations for the solar PV systems installed in 45 of its properties across the country, with more slated for retrofitting soon.

SM’s use of solar PV systems is just one of the many ways the company has been taking a more sustainable approach to energy use while supporting the country in achieving its sustainability goals. Its efforts continue to be recognized by reputable institutions both locally and internationally. 

Industry recognition for SM's sustainability efforts

For instance, SM’s flagship mall, SM Mall of Asia, was recognized at the 2024 Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards and Sustainable Energy Awards organized by the Department of Energy (DOE). It won the Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution for its solar PV system, which is capable of generating 2.7-megawatts (MW) of peak energy---enough to power 1,790 households for an entire year. 

Meanwhile, SM City Butuan was recognized under the New and Existing Building category at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Energy Awards 2024 Best Practices Competition for Energy-Efficient Buildings. Endorsed by the DOE to represent the Philippines, the mall was honored for advancing energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) innovations in its design and operations.

Supporting the DOE's Renewable Energy Roadmap

Alongside its efforts to integrate renewable energy sources into its operations, SM is also committed to supporting the DOE in achieving its targets under the Renewable Energy Roadmap 2017-2040, particularly its goal to increase the country's renewable energy installed capacity to at least 20,000 MW by 2040.

SM City Tanza is one of the 45 SM malls with solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, numbering 2,286 units, which will produce 1,257.30 kW peak solar power.

Public-Private Partnerships for a sustainable future

SM collaborates with partner solar PV system providers under the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Distributed Energy Resources program. These service contracts define the conditions of the partnership, project timelines, and the assigned malls for each provider, aligning with SM's adoption of renewable energy.

"At SM, sustainability is a commitment. Our growing solar portfolio demonstrates our dedication to a greener future for the Philippines, in partnership with the DOE and our valued partners," shared SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group Engr. Liza Silerio.

 “Together, we’re not just generating cost savings – we’re shaping a more sustainable future by supporting long-term environmental goals of our partners while contributing to the Philippines’ green transition,” said Green Heat Corporation Director Glenn Tong. Green Heat is one of SM’s solar PV system providers.

SM City Butuan with its solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. 

A model for sustainable development

Beyond its environmental and economic benefits, SM’s implementation of solar PV systems serves as a progressive model for public-private partnerships (PPPs). By collaborating with the DOE, SM gains access to technical expertise and financial incentives while helping the country meet its sustainability goals. This approach promotes innovation, creates jobs, and sets a precedent for other commercial establishments to follow.

DOE's support for sustainable energy development

“The DOE has implemented sustainable energy development strategies and institutionalized national and local capabilities, and we are heartened by the strong support we have received from both the private and public sectors,” said DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevara in her opening address at the Sustainable Energy Awards. 

To learn more about SM’s various sustainability initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.