DTI and SM Supermalls Highlight Philippine Coconut Industry Trade

MSMEs take the spotlight | Local entrepreneurs showcase coconut-based products proudly crafted by Filipino hands

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), together with the Philippine Coconut Authority, proudly launched the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair from August 28 to September 2 at SM Megamall, shining the spotlight on one of the country’s most iconic and powerful agricultural assets—the coconut.

Organized under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) mandated by Republic Act No. 11524, the fair went beyond showcasing products—it became a coconut-powered movement celebrating sustainability, innovation, and farmer empowerment.

Visitors discovered a diverse lineup of food, wellness, and lifestyle products crafted by Filipino coconut farmers and MSMEs, proving how the humble coconut continues to create opportunities and transform communities nationwide.

Sustainability Meets Innovation

From organic health supplements to biodegradable household items, the fair highlighted eco-friendly innovations that show how coconuts are shaping a more sustainable future.  

Innovation with purpose | Eco-friendly coconut products highlight sustainability and green living.

“With support from DTI and SM, we’re able to reach more Filipino consumers and let more people discover our products. Kimes Foods today holds patents in 11 countries and distributes abroad.” – Dr. Priscilla Kimes, Kimes Foods (Cebu)

“Simula pa 2011, kasali na kami rito at full support talaga ang DTI sa amin. At kapag sa SM po ang trade fair, malakas talaga ang benta,” said Randy Pineda, President of the Association of Bamboo and Coco Crafts of Tiwi (Albay).

SM’s Strong Commitment to MSMEs

As a partner, SM Supermalls reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MSMEs by providing platforms that elevate local industries, create economic opportunities, and champion proudly Filipino-made products.

“By bringing together coconut farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs under one roof, the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair not only strengthens the coconut industry but also empowers the communities behind it. SM Supermalls is proud to be part of this mission,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

With over 220 exhibitors nationwide, the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair stands as a powerful testament to how government and private partnerships can drive inclusive growth, uplift Filipino farmers, and build a stronger future for MSMEs.

Crafted with care | Artisans present creative coconut handicrafts that blend tradition and modern design.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. MSMEs are everywhere in SM Supermalls. From pop-ups to trade fairs, they transform our malls into launchpads of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship—fueling energy, ideas, and everyday experiences. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today!

SM and DOST Lead the Future of Sustainability Bringing Innovation & Business through SUSTEX 2025

 

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SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies officially staged the inaugural SM Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025) at the SMX Convention Center Aura, Taguig.

The two-day event, themed “Innovation for Environmental Stewardship,” brought together over 50 exhibitors, government agency leaders, the private sector, the international community and sustainability advocates to showcase cutting-edge solutions that advance a greener and more resilient future.

SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy and DOST Secretary Renato Solidum seal their commitment to environmental stewardship at the launch of the first-ever SM Sustainability Expo.

SM and DOST Leaders strike the Beat of Sustainability and lead the ceremonial Solidrum and angklung performance, symbolizing harmony and collective action at the inaugural Sustainability Expo 2025.

Symbolic Opening: “Beat of Sustainability”

The Expo opened with the ceremonial “Beat of Sustainability,” led by DOST Secretary Renato Solidum and SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy, who together struck the Solidrum—a bamboo drum shell developed by the DOST – Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI).

They were joined by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, SM Prime Vice President Jessica Sy-Bell, SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio, and other dignitaries, who played the angklung, a UNESCO-recognized bamboo instrument. The performance symbolized harmony and collective action in advancing sustainability.

Leadership Perspectives

In his opening remarks, Hans T. Sy emphasized that sustainability lies at the heart of SM’s business and highlighted the importance of partnerships—“Public-private partnerships such as this show how science and business can unite to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. We encourage more of this as the private sector can provide support to projects by local scientists.”

Secretary Solidum echoed this view, noting that SUSTEX demonstrates how innovation and science can strengthen national resilience and drive a circular economy, as championed by similar DOST efforts.

“Through OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All, we ensure that the science, technologies and innovations we develop are not just theories in journals or prototypes in laboratories—they are real solutions, accessible to businesses, communities, and every Filipino. This is also what we mean by Agham na Ramdam—science that is not distant; science that is felt, lived, and experienced by people in their everyday lives,” Solidum shared.

“My call is simple: enough talk. We’ve had summits, forums, declarations that fill up shelves and inboxes. What we need now is proof. Businesses must set their sights on real, tangible goals—not pretty brochures, not slogans, but numbers you can measure, promises you can check.”

Mr. Hans Sy and Ms. Jessica Sy-Bell and visit the DOST-AKO Packaging booth at SUSTEX 2025, underscoring their support for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions.

SUSTEX 2025 visitors engage with the FatHopes Energy booth, learning about innovative solutions for converting used cooking oil into sustainable biofuels.

Expo visitors explore the DOST-PNRI booth at SUSTEX 2025, discovering innovations in nuclear science and technology for sustainable development.

Engaged discussions take place at the PARMS booth during SUSTEX 2025, as visitors learn about collaborative solutions for recycling and materials management.

Innovation Marketplace: Over 50 Exhibitors

SUSTEX 2025 featured more than 50 exhibitors showcasing technologies, initiatives, and products that reflect Filipino ingenuity and global collaboration. Notable exhibits included SM Prime and SM GUUN’s “Waste-Free Future” campaign, which highlighted their joint initiative with Japan’s GUUN Environmental Company on advanced waste management. 

ARISE Philippines showcased efforts to advance disaster resilience through private sector collaboration. The DENR’s Loop Forward Program promoted circularity and large-scale waste reduction. The DOST-FPRDI centerpiece featured sustainable Lalang Pandan furniture, essential oils from Philippine plants, and bamboo musical instruments. Meanwhile, the DOST-CHRG presented innovations in electric vehicle technology.

A panel discussion at the Ignite Stage during SUSTEX 2025 gathers experts to share actionable insights on sustainability and innovation.

DOST leaders engage in a Fireside Chat at the Ignite Stage during SUSTEX 2025, sharing perspectives on science-led development and collaboration.

A Catalyst for Action

Running from August 29 to 30, the Expo featured interactive sessions, product showcases, and knowledge exchanges. The event reinforced SM’s continuing sustainability roadmap, including its Waste-Free Future campaign and commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040.

“May this Expo be more than an event. May it be a catalyst for collaboration, a hub for practical solutions, and a reminder that business can be a force for good—when guided by purpose, discipline and partnership,” Sy concluded. 

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving with Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers—continuously evolving to lead the way in sustainable development by integrating green design, energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and environmental stewardship into its 88 malls in the Philippines, all while creating inclusive spaces that enrich communities, support climate action, and ensure a better, more sustainable future for generations of Filipino shoppers.

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Inspired by Travel, Driven by Purpose—Tagaytay's Hotel Casiana Delivers Hospitality with Heart and Innovation

Hotel Casiana GM Clive Aranha Shares the Real Work Behind Great Guest Experiences on PLDT Enterprise’s ROI’d to Success with Hustleshare

 

Clive Aranha, General Manager of Hotel Casiana & Events Center, together with his dedicated team, continues to deliver seamless guest experiences—powered by reliable connectivity and digital solutions from PLDT Enterprise

 

For Clive Aranha, General Manager of Hotel Casiana, hospitality is about earning every guest’s trust, one thoughtful detail at a time—whether it’s a warm greeting, a child’s smile in the play club, or a wedding that goes off without a hitch.

 

“At Hotel Casiana, our mission is to delight discerning travelers by curating extraordinary experiences and unforgettable memories,” said Aranha.

 

Hotel Casiana, located along the scenic Tagaytay-Nasugbu highway, is a ten-story sanctuary that marries Scandinavian aesthetics with Filipino warmth. Built to accommodate families, corporate teams, and eventgoers alike, the hotel offers premium amenities such as a heated pool, wellness center, children’s carousel, and a variety of versatile function rooms.

 

In the latest episode of ROI’d to Success, the business podcast of PLDT Enterprise in partnership with Hustleshare, Aranha shares how a childhood fascination with hotel life turned into a lifelong mission to create an extraordinary guest experience in Tagaytay.

 

“I had a neighbor who worked on cruise ships, and he would always share stories about the different countries he visited,” shared Aranha, recalling the moment his interest in the hospitality industry began.

 

“I’ve been fascinated by the idea of traveling the world and getting paid for it since I was in fourth grade,” shared Aranha. “I’ve always enjoyed interacting with people and exploring different cuisines, which naturally led me to the hospitality industry. As I began my career, I quickly realized the sacrifices and challenges that come with succeeding in this field. But I also believe that many of the skills we develop in hospitality, particularly in dealing with people, are applicable across various careers. That’s what makes this job truly fulfilling for me.”

 

But behind the luxury is a team that’s been forged through real challenges. From navigating the abrupt decline in bookings during the pandemic to training a team grounded in empathy and precision, Aranha emphasizes that leadership means growing with your people, not above them.

 

“It’s not about ‘I,’ it’s about ‘we,’” Aranha shares. “Success is when your team feels like they’re part of something greater.”

 

A Partnership Built for Reliability and Growth

 

As Hotel Casiana’s reputation for reliable service grew, so did the demands for fast, uninterrupted operations—especially during peak seasons. To support its commitment to guest satisfaction, Hotel Casiana partnered with PLDT Enterprise to enhance its digital infrastructure.

 

With PLDT iGate and trunkline services now in place, the hotel has transformed its day-to-day operations. Guests enjoy smoother online bookings, event teams coordinate seamlessly across departments, and staff communication remains uninterrupted during critical moments.

 

“When I joined Hotel Casiana, I made it a point to identify recurring issues raised by our guests and one of the most pressing was connectivity,” said Aranha. “Thankfully, we were able to partner with PLDT Enterprise, who provided reliable solutions like iGate. This significantly improved our Wi-Fi, which is critical in today’s guest experience. We’ve also started adopting paperless, eco-friendly technologies like QR codes, and are now exploring AI integrations. PLDT Enterprise continues to play a key role in our digital transformation.”

 

Since the partnership with PLDT Enterprise, Hotel Casiana now attributes 12% of its total yearly bookings to online platforms. In 2026, a new hotel will be opened in Mexico, Pampanga, and Aranha looks forward to continuing the partnership with PLDT Enterprise, bringing its technology and innovation offerings to the new establishment.

 

“We’re in the business of making people feel taken care of,” Aranha says. “The right tools let us do that consistently, even when the hotel is fully booked. That’s where tech meets trust.”

 

Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise, also expressed his pride in the growing partnership: “Hotel Casiana exemplifies how hospitality is evolving with the help of reliable technology. We’re proud to support their journey in delivering outstanding guest experiences through stable connectivity and digital tools. At PLDT Enterprise, we believe in empowering businesses like Hotel Casiana to thrive—not just in key cities, but in regional growth centers like Tagaytay where tourism and service excellence continue to grow.”

 

Powering Philippine Hospitality with Purpose

 

The partnership between PLDT Enterprise and Hotel Casiana reflects a shared mission: to equip Filipino businesses with technology that lets them do what they do best—connect with people.

“We’re in the business of making people feel taken care of,” says Aranha. “Technology doesn’t replace that. But when it’s done right, it empowers us to do it better.”

 

Discover the story of Hotel Casiana at ROI’d To Success with Hustleshare on Spotify. To learn more about the digital solutions fit for your business, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-ROId-HC-pr

 

About PLDT Enterprise

 

PLDT Enterprise is the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines. Dedicated to delivering innovative fixed-line, wireless, and ICT solutions, PLDT Enterprise enables businesses to adapt to evolving technological needs, optimize efficiency, continuity, and connectivity, and enhance customer experience. With a strong commitment to doing business responsibly, PLDT Enterprise aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by enabling digital transformation, championing meaningful innovations, and bridging the digital divide.

 

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.

PLDT Enterprise Rallies Businesses to be Their own First Line of Cyber Defense

 

Manila, Philippines – In today’s digital-first landscape, where cyber threats evolve just as rapidly as the technologies designed to combat them, PLDT Enterprise, the corporate arm of PLDT, and ePLDT, PLDT’s ICT subsidiary, are reinforcing their commitment to cybersecurity. Championing efforts to educate, empower, and inspire proactive action toward a safer and more secure cyberspace, the group is urging its clients and customers to transform every employee and leader into a “Human Firewall.”

 

According to Alexis Bernardino, Field CISO and Cybersecurity Product Head of PLDT Enterprise and ePLDT, respectively, “Fraud schemes like phishing, smishing, vishing, and other similar scams, continue to increase in the Philippines. Given all these dangers, we continue to empower our clients’ workforce to become the first line of defense against cyber threats.”

 

A Snapshot of the Threat Landscape

 

The Philippines is one of the most active digital markets in the world and with it comes heightened exposure to cyber threats. Phishing, SMShing, and vishing attacks continue to proliferate, with scammers impersonating executives, hijacking QR codes (quishing), and sending fraudulent messages through messaging apps. These attacks continue to grow with cybercrime economy projected to hit $10.5 trillion globally by 2025, reflecting how valuable digital data has become.

 

Now, these threats have become local realities: fake CEO messages, spoofed HR announcements, and urgent payment requests are targeting Filipino businesses more frequently. But many times, a simple call to verify a suspicious message can help a company avert a major breach.

 

#CommittedToCybersecurity: From Awareness to Empowerment

 

PLDT Enterprise and ePLDT continue to promote a culture of cyber resilience through practical education. By simplifying technical topics and emphasizing everyday action, they provide essential cyber hygiene tips:

• "Pause, Check, Protect" before clicking on links or responding to unusual requests.
• Verify identities using trusted communication channels.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to secure logins.
• Separate work and personal device usage to prevent crossover risks.
• Avoid oversharing on social media, which scammers use for reconnaissance.

 

“At PLDT, we are committed to providing secure systems and building a digital community where vigilance is second nature,” Bernardino shared.

 

Securing Systems and Strengthening Trust Through Innovation

 

To support this, PLDT Enterprise, together with ePLDT, delivers comprehensive cybersecurity solutions that include protecting employee devices and data, providing professional services to improve organizations’ security postures, and offering AI-enabled managed solutions that identify, analyze, and prevent cyberthreats.

 

With a proactive cybersecurity strategy shaped by decades of experience, ePLDT’s certified experts lead threat intelligence, detection, and rapid response initiatives, equipping customers with tools, tailored insights, and 24/7 protection from real-world attacks.

 

From advanced threat detection to real-time incident handling, ePLDT works closely with customers to assess risks, close vulnerabilities, and stay one step ahead of evolving threats.

 

In addition, PLDT Enterprise, the first and only telco in the Philippines to receive the GSMA Open Gateway API certification, empowers businesses with Silent Authentication, an innovative solution that enhances customer protection by enabling secure, frictionless digital transactions. This eliminates the need for traditional passwords and OTPs by allowing merchants to verify identities directly with the telco network via the Application Programming Interface.

 

This kind of human-plus-technology approach ensures that cybersecurity involves both the systems in place and the people who use them.

 

A Shared Responsibility for a Safe Digital Philippines

 

Cybersecurity is not just the responsibility of IT departments. Everyone has a role to play. “You can't outsource vigilance,” Bernardino emphasized. “Every organization must embed a cybersecurity mindset into the very grassroots of their organizational culture.”

 

This vision aligns with the broader agenda of sustainable development of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by enabling safe digital access, promoting inclusive education, and protecting economic activities.

 

“Cybersecurity has now evolved from a technical task to a shared responsibility. Our mission is to embed that cyber-first mindset into every Filipino business, and there is no better time to start than today,” Bernardino said.

 

To learn more about how your organization can become a Human Firewall, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-committed-to-cybersecurity-pr

 

About PLDT Enterprise

 

PLDT Enterprise is the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines. Dedicated to delivering innovative fixed-line, wireless, and ICT solutions, PLDT Enterprise enables businesses to adapt to evolving technological needs, optimize efficiency, continuity, and connectivity, and enhance customer experience. With a strong commitment to doing business responsibly, PLDT Enterprise aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by enabling digital transformation, championing meaningful innovations, and bridging the digital divide.

 

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.

CDA Empowers Cooperatives Through SM Supermalls’ Weekend Market

Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and SM Supermalls have officially sealed a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held on Monday, July 1, 2025, at the SM Supermalls Headquarters in Pasay City. The agreement marks the beginning of a joint effort to empower Filipino cooperatives by giving them access to high-foot-traffic mall spaces through the SM Weekend Market — a platform dedicated to showcasing local products, homegrown talent, and Filipino entrepreneurship.

L-R: Royston A. Cabunag, Assistant Vice President and Lead for MSME and Job Fairs, Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls formalized partnership through a MOA signing with CDA Chairperson Usec. Alexander B. Raquepo and CDA Administrator Asec. Santiago S. Lim, that aims to empower Filipino cooperatives through the SM Weekend Market initiative.

The MOA was signed by Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo, CDA Chairperson, and Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls, in the presence of key officials from both institutions. “This is a historic partnership between the private and public sectors,” said Usec. Raquepo during his remarks. “We take great pride in this collaboration with SM Supermalls, which represents a powerful step forward in uplifting our micro, small and medium cooperative entrepreneurs. This model partnership will not only provide access to markets, but help elevate the economic well-being of our communities.”

Fresh, proudly Filipino produce takes the spotlight supporting local farmers and cooperatives at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Calamba.

Shoppers enjoy direct access to farm-fresh produce at the SM Weekend Market where farmers are given dedicated selling spaces in select SM Supermalls.

Local farmers showcase and sell their fresh harvest to shoppers at the SM Weekend Market, a platform by SM Supermalls that connects producers directly to consumers in high-traffic mall locations.

Under the agreement, CDA will endorse eligible cooperatives across the country to participate in the SM Weekend Market. In turn, SM Supermalls will make space available in key mall locations for a minimal fee—intended only to help cover maintenance costs. “The SM Weekend Market was born out of a simple but powerful idea — to give farmers and local producers, especially those in cooperatives, the chance to bring their goods closer to the people, in places they wouldn’t normally have access to,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations at SM Supermalls. “With CDA as our partner, we are excited to open more doors and more mall spaces to co-ops across the country. This partnership will allow more communities to thrive, more stories to be told, and more Filipino-made products to be celebrated.” 

Lively displays of locally grown vegetables welcome shoppers at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Southmall.

The event marks the start of a nationwide collaboration between CDA and SM Supermalls, with more updates and market rollouts expected in the coming months.

About the SM Weekend Market 

The SM Weekend Market is a community-driven initiative by SM Supermalls that gives farmers and cooperatives direct access to high-foot traffic locations, helping them sell fresh, abundant harvests quickly and sustainably. By providing accessible weekend selling spaces in designated SM mall areas, the Weekend Market connects local producers with urban shoppers — creating a win-win for both communities and consumers. 

More than just a marketplace, the SM Weekend Market is a purposeful movement — empowering grassroots enterprises, boosting local food systems, and fostering deeper community connections through commerce, culture, and collaboration. 

SM Proudly Celebrated Local MSMEs at DTI Wedding Fair at SMX Aura

DTI kicked off the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025 at SMX Aura headed by DTI Sec. Cristina Roque, bringing together MSMEs from across the country in a celebration of love, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

Taguig City, Philippines – Love, tradition, and local entrepreneurship shared the spotlight at the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025, held from June 27 to 29 at SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the three-day event successfully showcased over 100 Filipino MSMEs, celebrating Filipino creativity while driving real business opportunities in the events and wedding industry.

The fair welcomed industry professionals, wedding planners, creatives, and couples preparing for their big day to explore everything from couture bridalwear and floral arrangements to photography, catering, travel services, and more. The highlight of Day 1 was a runway fashion show featuring Filipino bridal designers, who elevated traditional fabrics and sustainable design for the modern bride. Day 2 and 3 featured talks and interactive exhibits spotlighting creative industries—from graphic design and stationery to music and event production—showing how weddings can reflect both personal stories and cultural pride.

Filipino bridal designers wowed the crowd with modern, sustainable, and culturally rooted creations at the Wedding Fair Fashion Show—proudly highlighting Tatak Pinoy talent.

“Through partnerships like this, SM Supermalls remains committed to helping build the future of Filipino MSMEs by providing entrepreneurs a platform to showcase their work, nurture local talent and creativity, and strengthen economic resilience.” shared Joaquin San Agustin, EVP of SM Supermalls. 

MSME designers wowed guests with their collection of bridal gowns, groom’s suits, and entourage wear—featuring silhouettes that range from classic romance to modern minimalist, all crafted with Filipino finesse.

A unique highlight at the DTI Wedding Fair: MSMEs showcased elegant Capiz shell dining wear—from plates and chargers to napkin holders and centerpieces—blending sustainability with sophistication.

Filipino tradition met timeless elegance at MSME booths featuring modern takes on the Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana—from hand-embroidered details to contemporary silhouettes perfect for formal Filipino weddings.

Filipino-made bridal jewelry and accessories took the spotlight at the Bagong Pilipinas Wedding Fair 2025, with MSME booths showcasing handcrafted tiaras, pearl earrings, heirloom rings, and bridal bling rooted in Filipino artistry.

In essence, the 2025 Wedding Fair was more than an event—it was a celebration of love, culture, and entrepreneurship, underlining that when Filipino MSMEs thrive, our communities—and the nation—grow stronger, faster, and more beautiful.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

SM Supermalls, owned by SM Prime Holdings, is the leading mall developer and operator in the Philippines. As a staunch advocate for MSMEs, SM Supermalls is dedicated to helping Filipino entrepreneurs succeed. Join our thriving marketplace across 80+ malls nationwide. Visit msme.smsupermalls.com to download your MSME application or email us at customercare@smsupermalls.com with your most innovative product and preferred location. Don't miss this opportunity to grow your business with SM Supermalls today!