Thursday, April 23, 2026

How a New Standard for Flexible Learning Is Being Set by Online Education (OEd)

“Unlike our competitors, we do not simply enroll students. We guide them, support them, and give them the best advice on how to finish their studies as efficiently as possible.” ~Dr. Amable C. Aguiluz IX, Vice-Chairman, CEO and Founder of OEd


For many years, "flexible learning" has been one of the most popular terms in the field of education. But in an increasingly crowded market, not every institution that offers flexibility offers the same experience.

In Online Education (OEd), flexibility extends beyond simply moving classes online or altering a schedule. The objective is to offer a comprehensive learning environment for people whose lives do not fit the traditional mold, including working professionals, parents, entrepreneurs, Filipinos residing overseas, and adult learners who are dedicated to finishing their education without postponing the rest of their lives.

Because of this, OEd has spent more than a decade refining the technology, support systems, and digital infrastructure that support its programs.

Since 2015, OEd has made a name for itself as one of the top providers of actual online education in the country, allowing students to learn at their own pace and whenever they choose.

OEd has positioned itself as a partner for working students, providing them with more than simply access to online courses; it assists them in navigating their studies, provides guidance, and ensures that they can finish their education in the most efficient and practical manner.

What makes OEd special is its combination of years of experience, technology, and service.


Behind the Screens

Students initially see a simple online portal containing classes, assignments, examinations, and course materials.

The technology ecosystem that runs in the background with the full support of the OEd Team, business experts, and educational partners is not immediately apparent to them.  

Unlike programs that still mostly rely on established classroom schedules and intermittent online sessions, OEd's digital platform was designed expressly for distant learning. Students can review lectures, submit assignments, communicate with mentors through virtual courses and a ticketing system, and monitor their academic progress from nearly anywhere with the use of an integrated learning management system.

Because of this, the experience feels less like an attempt to shoehorn traditional education into a busy schedule and more like a system created around the reality of modern living.

For professionals who work full-time, that may mean reviewing a course after a late shift. It may involve a parent studying after work or after their children have gone to bed. This implies that an OFW in a different time zone can complete their degree without having to leave their employment or return home.

The idea behind OEd is that technology does more than merely make learning easier. It makes learning feasible.


More Than Enrollment

But according to OEd, technology is never adequate on its own.

Its platform revolves around customer service, which many online programs overlook.

This support begins before enrollment and continues throughout a student's academic career. Academic advisors help students decide which courses best fit their goals, how to balance work and school, and what steps would allow them to graduate in the most efficient and practical way.

There is a significant distinction. In a setting where many institutions now market themselves as "flexible," OEd believes that the real distinction lies not in the promise but in the experience.

Even though some programs encourage flexibility, students still have to follow blended schedules, attend in-person sessions frequently, or navigate challenging processes to obtain school records and academic documents.

OEd, on the other hand, has spent years creating mechanisms that do away with these challenges rather than making them worse.


The Future of Learning Is Already Here

The future of education no longer depends on the question of whether or not schools will go digital. It has to do with which organizations are capable of successfully implementing digital learning.

OEd continues to make a clear distinction between programs that utilize the term "flexibility" and those that are truly flexible. The advertisement highlights what many working students already know: there are other ways to attain true flexibility besides a hybrid schedule or a few online programs. It is about studying at your own pace and on your own schedule utilizing a platform designed specifically for distance learning.

According to OEd, this is where many so-called flexible projects fall short. Nonetheless, others require students to follow predetermined schedules, travel for in-person classes, or put up with delays in the processing of school records. OEd's platform, on the other hand, was created to eliminate those barriers.

The brand's 2026 campaign highlights its track record of achievement in online learning, developed expertise since 2015, and commitment to aiding students after enrollment. The message is especially intended for working students and adult learners who need an educational system that adapts to their lives instead of the other way around.

The increasing variety of programs that OEd offers also reflects the trend of its digital platform.

One of the most clear examples of how far online education has come is the kinds of programs that are currently available on OEd's platform. Students now have more options than just general courses and simplified online versions of traditional curricula. As an alternative, people may sign up for specialized, forward-thinking courses designed specifically for digital learning.

One of OEd's newest and most cutting-edge programs is the Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence (BS AI) program, which reflects the future of both education and the workforce.

The BS AI program is designed for students who want to work in one of the world's fastest-growing industries and goes beyond the basics of technology. Students are introduced to cutting-edge fields such as prompt engineering, machine learning, robotics, computer vision, natural language processing, deep reinforcement learning, speech and conversation processing, and the ethical aspects of artificial intelligence.

The program's objective is to prepare students for careers like robotics engineers, AI consultants, data scientists, machine learning specialists, and AI engineers, which are in increasing demand across sectors.

More importantly, the BS AI program shows how OEd's online platform can offer even the most specialized and demanding courses in a way that is still accessible to working students and adult learners.

The content of these programs varies, as does the way they are delivered.

Traditional campus-based universities often require students to adjust their calendars around predetermined class hours, commute to campus, and attend sessions in person, even when they are already balancing employment and family responsibilities. However, other forms of so-called remote learning may be based on rigid hybrid schedules, irregular class attendance, or technologies that were only adapted from a traditional setup.

OEd was built differently.

From the beginning, it was designed specifically for online education. Because classes, assessments, consultations, and student assistance are all integrated into one digital platform, students can study whenever and wherever it is most convenient for them.

That distinction is crucial. It implies that instead of taking a leave of absence, a working professional can finish a lesson after work hours. For a parent, that means studying after the children have gone to bed. It implies earning a degree without having to return home for a Filipino living abroad.

OEd has been doing this since 2015, long before online learning became necessary. It has evolved the systems over time, together with the expertise, network of support, and student mentorship that many more recent rivals are now trying to replicate.

Its credibility comes from more than simply technology. It is the result of years of helping working students finish their education, academic advisers who help students along the way, and a platform that was created with flexibility in mind rather than just adding online components to a traditional model.

In this sense, OEd's approach to online learning is very different. It is not an extension of a real classroom. It is an entirely different method of teaching that is grounded on the reality of modern life.

The highly specialized, highly digital, and adaptable BS in Artificial Intelligence program provides, in many ways, a preview of what education will look like in the future.

That is why OEd’s digital platforms matter.

They are more than just online learning environments or webpages. Thanks to these well-considered solutions, a working student in Manila, a night shift contact center agent, or an OFW abroad can all receive the same future-ready education.


A Standard That Others Continue to Follow

The term "flexibility" is becoming used by more companies. Online portals, virtual classes, and convenience claims have all become more common.

But according to OEd, authentic online learning has never been about appearances.

Putting classes online or calling a program "flexible" is not enough; real flexibility necessitates understanding what students are actually going through, such as the employee who leaves work at midnight, the parent balancing family responsibilities, the Filipino studying abroad across time zones, and the student who cannot afford to put life on hold in order to finish a degree.

That is where OEd continues to stand apart.

OEd had been developing the infrastructure, resources, and knowledge required to make online learning successful long before it became popular. Since 2015, it has established a reputation for assisting students complete their coursework in addition to providing online education.

The specifics are what make a difference. a user-friendly platform. Academic advisors who offer guidance and responses. procedures intended to eliminate rather than increase barriers. a teaching approach that is centered on the learner rather than the constraints of a conventional classroom.

Others might try to use the formula. They might use the same vocabulary, make comparable claims, or have similar characteristics.

However, it is difficult to swiftly duplicate years of experience, a firm understanding of what working students need, and a service-oriented culture that goes beyond enrollment.

Because students are ultimately looking for more than simply an online education. They are looking for a school that can understand them.

And that is precisely what OEd has been built to do.


For inquiries, contact OEd through the following:
SMS/Call: 0917-190-1821 
Viber: 0917-190-1817 
WhatsApp: 0917-190-1817 
Landline: (632) 8737-5580 
For existing student concerns, students may use the OEd ticketing system at https://helpcenters.amauonline.com.

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

SM Supermalls bags top honor at 2026 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards

Aside from the Organization of the Year recognition, SM Supermalls also won four Gold, 13 Silver, and 13 Bronze Stevies.


SM Supermalls continues to raise the bar for customer excellence after being named Organization of the Year at the 2026 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, one of the region’s most prestigious programs recognizing innovation in business.

The win marks the second time SM Supermalls has received the prestigious honor, earning a total of 52 award points across Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie recognitions. The achievement highlights the company’s sustained commitment to delivering meaningful, innovative, and customer-first experiences across its most-loved malls.


SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin L. San Agustin (third from right) and Senior Assistant Vice President for China Marketing Vivian Chen (second from right) led the company’s delegation in Macao.


“On behalf of SM Supermalls in the Philippines and China, we would like to thank the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for this honor. This is a testament to how we continue to evolve and innovate to deliver a truly maxed-out experience for our customers. We dedicate this to the millions of our customers back home, as well as to our tenant partners and employees who make these experiences possible.” ~Joaquin L. San Agustin, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President 


Driving Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

From solar-powered rooftops to coastal cleanups and water conservation initiatives, SM Supermalls continues to lead with purpose—championing sustainable practices that empower communities and create a greener future across your most-loved SM Supermalls.

SM Supermalls continues to embed sustainability into its core operations through impactful initiatives such as SM Green Movement, International Coastal Cleanup 2025, Powered by the Sun, and Save Water.

These programs highlight the company’s long-term commitment to environmental responsibility—encouraging everyday action while building greener, more resilient communities, especially in times of crisis.


Championing Social Good and Inclusive Communities

Through initiatives like Movies for the Blind and nationwide job fairs, SM Supermalls continues to open doors—creating inclusive spaces where opportunities and experiences are accessible to all.


Beyond environmental efforts, purpose-driven initiatives remain at the heart of SM Supermalls’ mission. Programs like Mall for All, Empowering Communities, Empowering Together, and SM Job Fairs create meaningful opportunities for Filipinos, while Movies for the Blind ensures that mall experiences are inclusive and accessible to all.

Together, these initiatives reflect SM Supermalls’ role as a space where communities come together and where everyone can truly Gala To The Max.


Celebrating Local Arts, Culture, and Creativity

From colorful festivals to world-class spectacles like the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition, SM Supermalls transforms everyday spaces into cultural stages where creativity and community come alive.


SM Supermalls continues to bring culture and creativity closer to communities through initiatives such as Mindanao Art, Philippine International Pyromusical Competition, Konnichiwa Japan, Animezing North, and Art from All.

These programs transform mall spaces into vibrant cultural destinations—where stories are shared, traditions are celebrated, and creativity thrives across your most-loved SM Supermalls.


Empowering Youth and Strengthening Family Connections

Young talents take center stage at your most-loved SM Supermalls through programs like SM Super Spelling Bee, SM Little Stars, and Besties of Joy, creating moments where families connect, and kids shine in a truly maxed-out experience.


Creating spaces for young talents and families to grow remains a key focus. Initiatives like SM Super Spelling Bee, SM Little Stars, and Besties of Joy provide platforms that inspire learning, creativity, and connection.

Through these programs, SM Supermalls continues to nurture the next generation while strengthening family bonds—making every visit a chance to enjoy a maxed-out experience together.


Expanding Destinations and Elevating Experiences

From the grand opening of SM City Laoag to purpose-led spaces like the Mallseum in SM City La Union, SM Supermalls continues to shape vibrant destinations where communities can gather, explore, and Gala To The Max.


SM Supermalls’ continuous growth is anchored in thoughtful, community-driven development. The recognition of SM City Laoag and SM City La Union’s Opening in 2025 highlights the company’s continued expansion across the country.

Meanwhile, initiatives such as SM City La Union’s Translating Local Identity into Purpose-led Brand Experience and its Mallseum showcase how each development reflects the unique identity and heritage of its locale.

From large-scale spectacles to everyday engagement, SM Supermalls continues to redefine the malling experience. Crowd-favorite activations such as SM Active Hub, Pride Pheerayde, and SM Mall of Asia Night of Lights bring communities together through dynamic and immersive events.

These experiences embody the brand’s commitment to creating moments that go beyond shopping—inviting everyone to Gala To The Max in every visit.


Extending Innovation Across SM China

A burst of color and energy takes over SM Yangzhou with Mango Vibes Only, bringing together music, community, and immersive experiences that reflect SM Supermalls’ vibrant spirit across borders.


Beyond the Philippines, SM Supermalls’ excellence is mirrored in its China portfolio through locally resonant, highly engaging campaigns. Initiatives such as SM City Zibo: Let’s Wave, SM City Tianjin: Three Color Sports 6.0, and SM City Yangzhou: Mango Vibes Only highlight the brand’s ability to create vibrant, lifestyle-driven experiences tailored to diverse communities.

A whimsical, family-friendly experience unfolds at SM Chengdu with The Frog Prince, blending storytelling and interactive play to create magical, maxed-out moments for all ages.


Seasonal and cultural storytelling also took center stage with SM City Xiamen: Chinese New Year with Songxi Woodblock Prints and SM City Chengdu: The Frog Prince, blending tradition and creativity to deliver immersive mall experiences.


Wellness meets fun at SM Jinjiang, where playful installations and engaging activities invite mallgoers to unwind, recharge, and enjoy a lighthearted escape.


Meanwhile, SM City Jinjiang: Bean There, Beat That Stress! showcases innovative wellness-driven engagement, while SM Haicang: Grand Opening reflects the continued expansion and growing footprint of SM Supermalls in the region.

Together, these initiatives underscore SM Supermalls’ strength as a regional brand—capable of delivering impactful, culturally relevant, and truly maxed-out experiences across markets.




















About SM Supermalls
SM Supermalls is evolving for a new era shaped by 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 Coastal Cleanups Go Beyond Trash, Teach Communities to Care



In celebration of World Water Day, SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, organized coastal cleanup activities across six locations with seven participating malls across nationwide, reinforcing its long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable waste management in its most-loved malls.

This year’s coastal cleanup emphasized enhanced waste segregation education to deepen understanding among volunteers and communities on proper sorting, recycling, and disposal of collected waste. It also underscored that everyday actions—from responsible waste disposal to recycling—play a critical role in protecting marine ecosystems. 

The coastal cleanup activities took place across SM City La Union, SM City Urdaneta Central, SM City Tanza, SM City Daet, SM City Consolacion, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall, bringing together communities in a shared effort to protect local coastal environments and divert waste away from the ocean. 

During the cleanups, collected waste was carefully sorted and categorized, allowing participants to see firsthand the types of materials commonly found in coastal areas—from plastic packaging and beverage containers to other discarded items that threaten marine life and coastal habitats. 

By focusing on waste analysis and segregation, raised awareness on the impact of improperly managed waste and encouraged Filipinos to adopt more responsible environmental practices in their daily lives.






These coastal cleanup activities form part of SM Supermalls’ broader environmental sustainability programs, aligned with the SM Green Movement and the company’s Waste-Free Future campaign. 

“Protecting our coastal and marine environments requires a more proactive, end-to-end approach with the cleanups starting with education, deepening awareness, and sustaining collective action. By helping communities understand the importance of proper waste segregation and responsible waste management, we hope to inspire long-term behavioral change that benefits both people and the planet.” ~Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director for Environment and Sustainability of SM Supermalls

The initiative also highlights the spirit of bayanihan, bringing together mall communities, environmental partners, and local stakeholders in a shared effort to care for the environment.

As SM Cares continues to strengthen its sustainability programs throughout the year, the public is encouraged to participate in upcoming environmental initiatives, including World Oceans Day Cleanup Drives in June, International Coastal Cleanup activities in September, and National Environmental Awareness Month initiatives in November.





Through sustained efforts like these, SM Cares continues to empower communities to take part in protecting the environment—all for Filipinos, and all for the planet. 

To learn more about SM Cares’ environmental initiatives and how you can take part in upcoming programs, visit https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.


















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 89 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.

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. 

Government Service Express Now Serving You at SM City Caloocan

Officials from SM Supermalls, the Caloocan LGU, and partner government agencies lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony to formally open the Government Service Express at SM City Caloocan. Left to Right: PLTCol Teoson M. Rosarito: PNP Assistant Chief of Police for Operations - Caloocan Mr. Jacky L. Ngina: BFP Caloocan City Chief Fire Marshall PCol Joey Goforth: PNP Chief of Police for Operations - Caloocan Dr. Bernadette C. Lico: Philhealth Vice President - Regional NCR Mr. Fernando F. Nicolas: SSS Vice President - Regional NCR Mr. Chris Martin D. Coquia, ROH - Central 1, SCMC Rev. Fr. James Nitollama Atty. Redemptor Peig: Legal Officer - Office of the City Administrator, City Government of Caloocan Mr. Royston A. Cabunag - Assistant Vice President, MSME, Job Fairs & GSE, SCMC Mr. Ronald Watson: PRC Regional Director Mr. Michael Natoplag: Chief of Staff for Office of the Vice Mayor, City Government of Caloocan Isidro G. Ordillano: Pag-IBIG Fund Marketing Specialist


SM Supermalls, in partnership with the City Government of Caloocan and key national government agencies, officially inaugurated the Government Service Express (GSE) at SM City Caloocan on March 25, 2026. The GSE makes essential public services more accessible, all for the local community through a convenient, people-centered hub in their most-loved SM Supermall.

The opening was led by Chris Martin D. Coquia, Regional Operations Head of SM together with representatives from participating government agencies, including the Caloocan City LGU, PNP, PRC, PhilHealth, SSS, and Pag-IBIG.

The GSE at SM City Caloocan marks the 18th Government Service Express in SM malls nationwide, reinforcing SM Supermalls’ commitment to transforming malls into community hubs that go beyond retail—spaces where everyday needs, essential services, and meaningful experiences come together.


SM Supermalls and the City Government of Caloocan officially inaugurate the Government Service Express at SM City Caloocan, bringing essential public services closer to the community. 


Designed as a one-stop hub, the Government Service Express enables customers to conveniently complete government transactions within the mall environment—supporting parents processing family documents, jobseekers completing employment requirements, entrepreneurs and workers navigating essential services, and everyday citizens seeking efficient and reliable public service.


Chris Martin D. Coquia, Regional Operations Head of SM Supermalls, delivers welcome remarks during the inauguration of the Government Service Express at SM City Caloocan.

Atty. Redemptor Peig, Legal Officer, City Administrator, shares the message of partnership of Dale Gonzalo Malapitan, City Mayor of Caloocan during the Government Service Express inauguration at SM City Caloocan.

“As we open this new Government Service Express, we do so guided by our commitment of All For You—putting the needs of our customers and communities at the heart of everything we do,” said Coquia. “By making essential services more accessible and experiences more seamless, we help our customers truly maximize their experience every time they visit our malls.” ~Chris Martin D. Coquia, Regional Operations Head of SM Supermalls

The blessing of the Government Service Express at SM City Caloocan marks the beginning of enhanced access to essential public services for the community.


Beyond Convenience: Enabling Everyday Progress for Filipino Workers and Families

More than just accessibility, the Government Service Express delivers real, everyday impact—particularly for the working and middle-income segments who rely on efficient, reliable government services to move forward in life.

By bringing together agencies such as the Caloocan Business Permit and Licensing Office, BFP, PNP, PhilHealth, and PRC in one location, GSE allows individuals to:
  • Process employment requirements and benefits without taking multiple days off work
  • Complete business and professional requirements in a single trip

In select locations, GSEs also serve as access points for free services, including medical assistance and medicines through partner agencies—helping ease the financial burden of everyday needs while maintaining dignity and independence.







Functioning as a modern-day community service hub, GSE complements local government services by providing a more accessible, organized, and customer-friendly environment—especially for urban, working populations who value time, efficiency, and reliability.

Rather than being a space solely for aid, the Government Service Express empowers individuals to participate more actively in the economy—whether by securing employment, accessing benefits, or building their future through government-supported programs.

The launch highlights the strength of public-private collaboration in improving service accessibility and quality. By integrating government offices into the mall, SM Supermalls helps simplify processes, reduce barriers, and create more inclusive access to services that matter in daily life.

Through initiatives that respond directly to community needs, SM Supermalls continues to strengthen its role as the most loved mall—building spaces that serve not just transactions, but people and communities.


















About SM Supermalls – Government Service Express
SM Caloocan marks a milestone as SM Supermalls’ 51st mall to bring government services to the community—and the 18th to feature a full Government Service Express (GSE) hub. Through GSE, SM hosts key government agencies in convenient one-stop hubs, designed around the needs of every citizen tribe—from workers and entrepreneurs to families and seniors—making government services more accessible, efficient, and people-centered. As the country’s most preferred and loved retail destination, SM continues to strengthen partnerships that empower Filipinos to access essential services with ease and dignity. Because public service should work for everyone—All For You.

Bridges to Success Career Fair empowers future-ready talent



The Bridges to Success (BTS) Career Fair 2026 successfully returned last March 21, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila. Enabling  community opportunities, the joint initiative between SM Offices and National University brought together over 3,500 students, graduates, and industry leaders in a shared mission: turning education into real-world opportunity. 

Now on its third year, BTS also continues its commitment to bridging the gap between the academe and the workplace by connecting NU students and graduates with leading companies across multiple industries.

The whole-day event featured a dynamic mix of career talks, panel discussions, and on-site recruitment activities, creating a space where young professionals could gain insights from industry leaders while exploring immediate employment opportunities. 








More than a traditional job fair, BTS 2026 served as both a learning forum and a hiring platform, encouraging meaningful conversations between aspiring professionals and potential employers. Through these interactions, participants gained valuable career guidance, industry perspectives, and access to real employment pathways. 







Through initiatives like the Bridges to Success Career Fair by SM Offices  and the nationwide #SMJobFair series, SM Supermalls continues to strengthen partnerships with academic institutions, businesses, and government agencies to make employment opportunities more accessible. 

In celebration of International Women’s Month, these initiatives also recognize the increasing participation and leadership of women in the workforce—creating inclusive spaces where every Filipino can pursue their career aspirations. 

SM Supermalls remains committed to championing opportunities for all—because every job seeker deserves a bridge to success. 


















About SM Supermalls – Job Fairs 
SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s leading mall developers—continues to maximize the job fair experience by bringing employment opportunities closer to Filipinos through accessible job fairs in malls nationwide. As the country’s most preferred and loved retail destination, SM designs job fair experiences that respond to the evolving needs of different job seeker tribes—from fresh graduates and first-time job hunters to career shifters and experienced professionals seeking their next opportunity. More than a venue, SM serves as a platform where talent meets opportunity—connecting job seekers with employers, strengthening workforce development, and supporting inclusive economic growth through strong public and private partnerships. Because meaningful opportunities should be within reach—designed with every Filipino’s future in mind. All For You.

SM Supermalls Empower MSMEs at the 2026 DTI National Food Fair

DTI Secretary Cristina Roque lead the official ribbon-cutting ceremony together with DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Bautista and DOA Secretary Francisco Laurel Jr., marking the start of the five-day fair—signaling a unified commitment to empower Filipino enterprises


For many MSMEs, growth begins with access—and the right platform can change everything. “It all started at a DTI Trade Fair in SM, where we had the opportunity to present our product to Ms. Teresita Sy-Coson—opening doors for us to become part of SM’s Kultura and changing our journey.” shared by Alvin Causing of Project Beans Coffee. “From a small start-up, we’ve grown into a brand enjoyed nationwide and globally because of the right marketplace SM provided. Today, we’re here not just to showcase our products, but to say thank you—because SM didn’t just give us space, they gave us a chance, and that made all the difference.” This reflects the core of the DTI-SM collaboration: turning opportunity into transformation, and visibility into viability.




More than a showcase of Filipino flavors, the 2026 DTI National Food Fair proved to be a powerful engine for entrepreneurship, innovation, and nation-building, as thousands of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) connected with wider markets at Megatrade Halls, SM Megamall from April 8–12.


A dynamic hub of Filipino entrepreneurship, innovation, and community comes to life at the National Food Fair—hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry and supported by SM for MSMEs, an advocacy program of SM Supermalls—held annually at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall.

A dynamic hub of Filipino entrepreneurship, innovation, and community comes to life at the National Food Fair—hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry and supported by SM for MSMEs, an advocacy program of SM Supermalls—held annually at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall.


A Platform Built for Growth

“From a small coffee shop, we’ve grown into a manufacturing business, and platforms like the DTI National Food Fair at SM Megamall have helped accelerate that journey. The support, accessibility, and stronger sales show how SM provides MSMEs like us the right environment to grow.” ~King Del Rosario of Coffee and Mead Corporation


Beyond exposure, the National Food Fair serves as a launchpad for scaling businesses—combining DTI’s development programs with SM Supermalls’ nationwide retail reach. 


Connecting Regions to the Nation

“Through DTI trade fairs at SM Supermalls, we were able to bring our products from Bicol to a national market. It opened doors to major buyers and long-term partnerships, helping us scale and grow—proving how SM can transform regional businesses into national brands.” ~Larry Lee Ong of Orange Country Enterprises


For regional entrepreneurs, access to national markets is often the biggest barrier—one that the National Food Fair helps break. By bridging regional producers to urban consumers, SM enables MSMEs to move from local relevance to national competitiveness.


From Demand to Expansion

“Demand for our product is already higher than supply, and having a booth at the DTI National Food Fair in SM Megamall gives us the right mix of customers and exposure to sustain that growth. Every time we’re in SM, we sell out—proving the strength of the platform in helping us grow faster and reach new markets.” ~Alvin Samson of Easter Joy Rabbit Ventures


At the heart of the fair is a simple but powerful outcome: real demand. This demonstrates how strategic marketplaces drive not just awareness—but measurable business outcomes.  


Culture, Community, and Inclusive Growth

“We’re not just selling products—we’re sharing our culture. Through the DTI National Food Fair, we introduce Cordilleran cuisine, correct misconceptions, and create livelihood for our farmers. With SM, it’s not just foot traffic—it’s the right market that helps us scale and connect to bigger opportunities.” ~Sherly Biase of Basilio’s Kini-ing Food Processing


Beyond commerce, the fair highlights the role of MSMEs in preserving identity and creating livelihoods. Here, MSMEs become more than businesses—they become drivers of cultural preservation and community development.


A Shared Commitment to Nation-Building

The success of the 2026 DTI National Food Fair underscores the strength of a model built on collaboration:
  • DTI providing capability-building and enterprise support
  • SM Supermalls offering scale, access, and market integration
  • MSMEs driving innovation, resilience, and growth
A moment of unity and purpose as leaders from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), SM Supermalls, and partner organizations and stakeholders come together to champion Filipino MSMEs at the 2026 National Food Fair at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall.


“This partnership allows us to bring MSMEs closer to the market—hindi lang sa Maynila kundi sa buong bansa.” ~Cristina Roque, DTI Secretary

With over 17,000 MSMEs nationwide, SM Supermalls continues to redefine its role—not just as a retail destination, but as a platform for inclusive growth and economic empowerment.


The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and Indak Guiguinto Folkloric Dance Troupe open the 2026 DTI National Food Fair with a celebration of Filipino culture and heritage. 

Hosted by Karen Davila, the event walkthrough highlights the diversity and potential of Filipino food enterprises.

Proudly local, proudly Filipino—MSMEs showcase their products and stories at the DTI National Food Fair in SM Megamall.


Proudly local, proudly Filipino—MSMEs showcase their products and stories at the DTI National Food Fair in SM Megamall.

Proudly local, proudly Filipino—MSMEs showcase their products and stories at the DTI National Food Fair in SM Megamall.

Proudly local, proudly Filipino—MSMEs showcase their products and stories at the DTI National Food Fair in SM Megamall.


The 2026 DTI National Food Fair 2026 proves that when public and private sectors work together, MSMEs don’t just participate in the economy, they help build it. At SM Supermalls, your most loved mall, every booth is more than a business, it is a story of growth, a source of livelihood, and a step toward a stronger, more inclusive Filipino economy. Be part of the movement that champions Filipino entrepreneurship. Visit the fair at SM Megamall until April 12 and experience how MSMEs are shaping the future of the local economy.


















About SM Supermalls – MSMEs
SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 90 malls nationwide—creates business opportunities through its SM for MSMEs advocacy program, by providing market access, visibility, mentorship, and a marketplace where enterprises can grow and thrive. By connecting entrepreneurs to communities and customers, SM enables businesses to scale and succeed. Because when MSMEs thrive, communities grow stronger—reflecting SM’s commitment to building a future designed All For You. To learn more, visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com.