Small Beginnings, Big Ambition: How Three Filipino Entrepreneurs Grew Their Negosyo with Maya Business

In photo (L-R): Mohammad Hadji Mahmod,  Von Bindolo, and Ma. Christine Vito

For many Filipino entrepreneurs, growing a negosyo doesn’t always begin with a big investment. Sometimes, it starts with just enough capital to restock in-demand products, expand what they can offer, or keep up with their customers.

For Ma. Christine Vito, Mohammad Hadji Mahmod, and Von Bindolo, that starting point was a Maya Advance loan of ₱10,000, ₱1,000, and ₱20,000, respectively. Each put that additional capital toward practical business needs: from inventory and everyday operations to services their customers were already looking for.

Over time, those small beginnings opened the door to bigger opportunities. By continuing to transact through Maya Business and responsibly managing their loans, all three were able to access more working capital as their businesses grew, turning their first relatively small loans into millions of pesos in Maya Advance loans utilized over time.

Christine: From a Sari-Sari Store to a Growing Grocery

For Ma. Christine Vito, becoming a business owner wasn’t always part of the plan. After completing an internship at a shipping company, where she gained experience selling dry goods, she became interested in running a business of her own.

Christine and her family eventually opened a small store in Boracay Island. When the property where it stood was sold, they relocated to Sebaste, Antique, where they started again with a sari-sari store.

During the pandemic, the store remained open to serve the community. As more customers came in for mobile load, bills payment, and cash-in and cash-out services, Christine began using Maya Business more actively, and soon found herself needing more inventory to keep up with demand.

She was initially hesitant when she was offered her first ₱10,000 Maya Advance loan, but decided to use it to purchase more products for the store.

“Noong una, natakot akong kumuha ng loan, pero dahil sa Maya Business, nagkaroon kami ng puhunan para tuloy-tuloy na mapalago ang negosyo namin.” (At first, I was afraid to take out a loan, but through Maya Business, we had the capital to continuously grow our business.)

As the negosyo grew, Christine continued putting additional capital back into the business. Since that first ₱10,000, she has utilized more than ₱3 million in Maya Advance loans over time.

What began as a small sari-sari store has since expanded into a mini grocery, with a kitchen and mini warehouse to support its operations. Her family has also purchased a vehicle for the negosyo, growth that Christine built one practical investment at a time.

Mohammad: Making the Most of His First ₱1,000

For Mohammad Hadji Mahmod, the first step was even smaller. After years of working as an OFW, Mohammad returned to the Philippines to help grow his family’s business in Boracay Island. He became a Maya Business user in 2023, offering mobile load, bills payment, and cash-in and cash-out services to customers in their community.

When his first Maya Advance offer came, it was for ₱1,000. Rather than waiting for a bigger amount, Mohammad saw an opportunity to put what was available to work. He used the funds for his load business, helping keep the service running while gradually building up his capital.

As he continued using Maya Business and responsibly managing his loans, he was able to access more working capital for the family negosyo. From that first ₱1,000, Mohammad has since utilized more than ₱2.2 million in Maya Advance loans over time, helping him sustain daily operations, expand his product offerings, and pursue new business opportunities.

“Hangga't may Maya Business, mas kampante akong patuloy na palaguin ang negosyo ng pamilya namin.” (As long as we have Maya Business, I feel more confident continuing to grow our family business.)

For Mohammad, it’s a mindset that has stayed the same since his first loan: start with what you have, put it to good use, and keep building from there.

Von: Turning Additional Capital Into New Opportunities

Von Bindolo’s journey with Maya Business began before she even took over her family’s sari-sari store. While working in Manila, she discovered Maya Business through Facebook and began selling mobile load to earn additional income through commissions. When she returned to Boracay to take over the family store from her mother, Maya Business became part of how she served customers in the community.

When the pandemic hit and tourism in Boracay came to a standstill, keeping the negosyo running became even more important. Von continued serving customers who relied on the store for mobile load, bills payment, and cash-in and cash-out services.

Her first ₱20,000 Maya Advance loan gave her additional working capital to keep investing in the business during a difficult period.

“Malaking bagay kahit maliit lang ang puhunan, lalo na kapag ginagamit mo para madagdagan ang paninda at mapagsilbihan nang mas maayos ang mga suki. Unti-unti, nakita ko rin na kaya palang lumago ang negosyo namin.” (Even a small amount of capital can make a big difference, especially when you use it to add more products and serve your regular customers better. Little by little, I also saw that our business could really grow.)

Since that first loan, Von has utilized more than ₱2.6 million in Maya Advance loans over time. The additional capital has helped her grow sales and invest back into the negosyo, including purchasing an e-bike for daily operations. Her growing business has also helped support her child’s education.

What started as a sari-sari store passed down by her mother continues to grow into a negosyo that supports both her family and the community around her.

Small Capital Can Go a Long Way

Christine, Mohammad, and Von started with different businesses and different amounts. What they shared was how they chose to use that capital: putting it toward real, everyday needs that could help their negosyo move forward.

As their businesses grew, so did the opportunities available to them. What began with inventory, load, and daily operating needs eventually helped make room for bigger investments: from expanding a sari-sari store into a mini grocery to purchasing vehicles and exploring new sources of income.

Through Maya Business, entrepreneurs can access digital tools and services for everyday business needs, from accepting QR Ph payments to offering mobile load, bills payment, and cash-in and cash-out services. Eligible Maya Business users can also access additional working capital through Maya Advance.

For Filipino entrepreneurs, growing a negosyo doesn’t always mean starting big. Sometimes, it means making the most of the capital you have, putting it where it can make a difference, and building from there.

Because a small first step can eventually take a negosyo much further.

Looking to grow your negosyo with digital tools and services? Apply to become a Maya Center and download the Maya Business app on Google Play and App Store to get started.

Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @makeyourmoneymaya on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. www.bsp.gov.ph. For 24/7 assistance, visit the Help Center in the Maya app or call us from 8 AM to 7 PM daily at +632 8845-7788.

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About Maya 

Maya is the #1 Fintech Ecosystem in the Philippines, with Maya, the #1 Digital Bank, and Maya Business, the #1 Omni-Channel Payment Processor. Maya Bank is a digital bank regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), with deposits insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) up to ₱1 million per depositor. To learn more about Maya, check out maya.ph and mayabank.ph. Follow Maya at @makeyourmoneymaya on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok and @mayaofficialph on Twitter.   

Cebu Province Strengthens Digital Governance with PLDT Enterprise Connectivity and Collaboration Solutions

Enabling more responsive public service across the province through efficient government operations

PLDT Enterprise and the Province of Cebu formalize their partnership to support digital governance through enhanced connectivity and collaboration solutions. (L–R): Ms. Hazel Amoyan and Mr. Jay Lagdameo of PLDT Enterprise with Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro of Cebu Province and Atty. Joseph “Ace” Durano, Provincial Administrator of Cebu Province

 

Cebu, Philippines — The Province of Cebu is advancing its digital transformation efforts through its partnership with PLDT Enterprise, adopting solutions designed to strengthen connectivity, improve workforce collaboration, and support more efficient and responsive public service delivery.

The recently formalized partnership highlights how digital infrastructure can help local governments modernize operations and better serve their constituents. As one of the country’s oldest provinces and a first-class province in Central Visayas, Cebu continues to

 

 

pursue initiatives that strengthen governance and public service delivery, with PLDT Enterprise supporting this direction through reliable and scalable digital solutions.

Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro emphasized the importance of boosting digital capabilities. "This collaboration underscores Cebu’s continued effort to modernize government systems and adopt digital tools that support better service delivery across the province. As the Province of Cebu continues its digital transformation journey, the partnership with PLDT Enterprise reflects a shared vision of using technology to improve how government works—making public services more connected, productive, and responsive to the needs of the people.”

A Government & Private Sector Push for Collaboration, Innovation, and Technology

A major step in this direction was the enactment of the Cebu Province Digital Services Act of 2025, which established a province-wide digital services framework aimed at streamlining government transactions, strengthening data protection, and improving the quality and accessibility of public services.

Complementing this initiative is the creation of the Provincial Information and Communications Technology Council (PICTC), the province’s policy-making and coordinating body for ICT development.

In support of these digitalization efforts, the Province of Cebu has adopted several PLDT Enterprise solutions, including iGate connectivity, Smart Corporate Lines, and Microsoft 365 which was deployed and enabled by PLDT Group’s ICT subsidiary, ePLDT. Together, these services provide the province with reliable, secure, and collaborative digital infrastructure that supports modern government operations, enhances workforce productivity, and enables more effective delivery of public services across Cebu.

“For a province as dynamic as Cebu, reliable digital infrastructure is essential to keeping public service moving,” said Javier Lagdameo, PLDT Vice President & Head, Domestic Enterprise Business, Regional & Commercial. “Through this partnership, we are helping provide the connectivity and collaboration tools that allow government teams to work more seamlessly, serve constituents more efficiently, and build a stronger foundation for Cebu’s continued growth."

 

 

Reliable high-speed connectivity through iGate supports continuity and stable access to digital services, while Microsoft 365 provides a comprehensive suite of tools designed to enhance collaboration, streamline workflows, and boost productivity across teams.

“PLDT Enterprise remains strongly committed to supporting local governments as they build stronger digital foundations for governance and public service,” said Ma. Hazel Amoyan, CRM Head, PLDT Enterprise. “Through reliable connectivity, collaboration tools, and mobility solutions, we aim to help enable more efficient operations and more responsive service delivery for the Province of Cebu. Moving forward, we will continue to deliver and provide these kinds of innovative solutions and products to each and every province across the country.”

A commitment to empowering Cebu with secure, reliable, and future-ready digital infrastructure

The partnership reflects PLDT Enterprise’s continuing commitment to helping local governments build the digital capabilities needed for modern governance. In Cebu’s case, the focus is on providing secure, reliable, and future-ready digital infrastructure that can support both internal efficiency and citizen-facing services.

By strengthening connectivity and equipping teams with collaborative digital tools, the partnership is expected to contribute to faster coordination, more efficient government processes, and improved service responsiveness. The broader significance lies in how these technologies can help the Province of Cebu sustain its smart governance ambitions while supporting transparency, accessibility, and public trust in digital government services.

To learn more about how PLDT Enterprise supports digital transformation in the public sector, visit https://pldtenterprise.com/about-us.

 

 

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.

Strong performance, stronger trust: SM Supermalls evolves for the next generation of customers

 

Mall operator sustains portfolio transformation reinforced with customer-obsessed strategy following strong H1 business performance  

MANILA, Philippines, September 1, 2026 — SM Supermalls delivered record revenues in the first half the year, expanding 8% to P41.8 billion from P38.6 billion. Its exceptional performance was driven by higher leasable space and tenant sign-ups, along with steady foot traffic. 

Total gross leasable area grew 3 percent to 5.1 million square meters from 5.0 million square meters, while the number of tenants rose 4 percent to 23,174 from 22,192. Average daily foot traffic was steady at 3.7 million.  

“Our growth reflects the enduring trust of our tenants and shoppers. Despite macroeconomic headwinds, they continue to find value in the variety of our offerings and the strong sense of community in our malls,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “This gives us confidence to keep investing in spaces and experiences that respond to their changing needs.”

SM’s Transformation Journey

Noting market demand for diverse and unique experiences beyond retail, SM enhanced its spaces with refreshed sports, leisure, and entertainment offerings. The mall operator sustained foot traffic through the addition of 41 Pickleball courts in its first-half inventory, bringing up the number of its courts to 102 courts across 32 properties nationwide.

On June 12, 2026, SM Supermalls also co-hosted the Galaxy Manila Marathon, the first-ever full marathon to take over EDSA, drawing over 25,000 runners across multiple categories.

On top of these, SM also emphasized its corporate purpose of driving value to its surrounding communities through sustainable facilities developed in its malls. From 100 Megawatt peak (MWp) solar power generated through its mall rooftop solar PV system, SM has increased its capacity to 122 MWp with further plans on expansion until the end of the year. SM also recently reached 100% coverage for free EV Charging Stations across all 90 of its malls at 203 EV charging stations.

Because of its sustained innovation and pioneering customer-centric vision, SM Supermalls was heralded as the Philippines’ Strongest Brand for the second year in a row by leading global brand valuation consultancy firm Brand Finance. Fueled by its strong customer, community, and advocacy initiatives, SM Supermalls scored a 95.3 out of 100 on the Brand Strength Index, surpassing its 2025 performance to retain its AAA+ rating in the Philippines 50 2026 report.

The next chapter of My SM

With these milestones, SM aims to sustain its customer-defined transformation through My SM—its five-year platform for evolving SM malls around the changing needs, lifestyles and aspirations of Filipino communities.

“Our growth plan for the rest of 2026 and beyond is to continue evolving for our customers. SM will keep building business momentum through the introduction of exciting new brands, cinema and entertainment acts, as well as leisure offerings that will sustain market interest. With the upcoming opening of our 91st mall, SM Nuvali, we are expanding our business footprint in the emerging growth corridor of South Luzon and Calabarzon with an innovative upscale mall concept never experienced in the Philippine market before,” said Tan.

 

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About SM Supermalls

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

SM for MSMEs Strengthens Support for Women Entrepreneurs

 

Discover women-led Filipino brands through WomenBizPH

Every successful business begins with someone brave enough to take the first step. For countless women entrepreneurs, that journey starts with a simple idea, nurtured by passion, strengthened by resilience, and driven by the dream of creating a better future for their families and communities. 

Yet while many have built remarkable products and businesses, one challenge remains constant—finding opportunities to be discovered.

Women-led enterprises proudly showcased their local products at the Women Strong Trade Fair held at the Fashion Hall of SM Megamall last year. 

Recognizing the vital role women play in driving entrepreneurship and local economic growth, SM Supermalls, through SM for MSMEs, continues to strengthen its support for women-led enterprises through its partnership with WomenBizPH. This August, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs will bring together inspiring women entrepreneurs at SM Megamall and SM City Cebu, with succeeding activations at SM City Lucena and SM City Zamboanga.

From proudly local delicacies to globally competitive designs, the fair is a continuous celebration of women’s ingenuity, resilience, and contribution to nation-building through enterprise. 

More than a marketplace, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs serve as a platform where women entrepreneurs can introduce their brands to new customers, exchange ideas with fellow business owners, build meaningful connections, and gain valuable opportunities to grow their enterprises.

Behind every booth is a woman with a dream, a purpose, and a story worth sharing. Through WomenBizPH and SM for MSMEs, women entrepreneurs are given greater opportunities to showcase their brands, reach new customers, and continue building businesses that inspire communities nationwide.

The initial lineup for the SM Megamall leg alone features entrepreneurs from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, showcasing the richness of Filipino craftsmanship and regional creativity.

Visitors can discover a curated selection of proudly Filipino brands featuring handcrafted fashion, woven textiles, artisanal food, wellness products, accessories, jewelry, home décor, and lifestyle essentials. 

Beyond shopping, each three-day trade fair offers a dynamic lineup of activities designed to empower entrepreneurs through learning and collaboration. Business talks, keynote sessions from government and industry leaders, exhibitor sales pitches, networking opportunities, fashion showcases, and recognition programs provide participants with valuable insights while celebrating the achievements of women-led businesses.

"Women entrepreneurs continue to drive innovation, create livelihoods, and strengthen communities across the country. Through our partnership with WomenBizPH, we hope to provide more opportunities for women-led businesses to gain greater visibility, connect with more customers, and continue growing," said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls.

President Rhoda Caliwara and Board Secretary Mylene Abiva of WomenbizPH pose for a group photo at the grand opening of the Women Strong Trade Fair in SM Lanang.

 “Empowered women empower women. And when women come together to support one another in business, innovation and impact follow.” Said Mylene Abiva, Board Secretary, WomenBizPH. 

L-R: WomenBizPH Board Secretary Mylene Abiva, together with SM Supermalls Executives Pats Dy, SAVP and Head of Marketing for SM Communities and Royston Cabunag, AVP and Department Head for SM Communities during the grand opening at SM Megamall. 

 The partnership reflects SM Supermalls' continuing commitment to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by creating accessible platforms where entrepreneurs can showcase their products, strengthen customer relationships, and expand their market reach through the country's most loved mall network. 

Empowered and united! DTI Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona proudly supporting local weavers from North Luzon.

For shoppers, the experience goes beyond discovering unique local products. Every booth represents a personal journey—one built on courage, perseverance, and purpose. Behind every handcrafted item, locally made delicacy, or innovative creation is a woman who chose to pursue her dream despite the challenges of building a business.

Together, women entrepreneurs from different communities and industries come together to celebrate collaboration, resilience, and the growing community of women-led Filipino businesses

Every purchase, every conversation, and every discovery becomes an opportunity to support women entrepreneurs who are creating livelihoods, preserving local craftsmanship, and contributing to stronger communities across the country.

 Whether you're looking for thoughtful gifts, proudly Filipino products, or your next favorite local brand, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs offer a chance to discover businesses with stories worth sharing—and the remarkable women behind them.

Visit the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fairs at participating SM malls:

• SM Megamall | August 10–12

• SM City Cebu | August 14–16

A beautifully hand-painted Filipiniana reflects the vibrant stories of Filipino women—symbolizing the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit celebrated through WomenBizPH and SM for MSMEs. 

Discover inspiring women-led Filipino brands and support the entrepreneurs shaping the future of local enterprise through SM for MSMEs.

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About SM Supermalls – SM for MSMEs

SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia's largest mall developers and operators with 90 malls nationwide—continues to champion Filipino entrepreneurship through SM for MSMEs, creating opportunities that are relevant, inclusive, and designed around what entrepreneurs need most. As the country's most loved retail destination, SM supports MSMEs across different stages of growth by providing market access, greater visibility, strategic partnerships, and platforms that help local businesses thrive. By connecting communities with proudly Filipino brands, SM continues to empower entrepreneurs while building stronger, more resilient local economies.

SM Supermalls and PMAP to expand job and upskilling opportunities nationwide

SM Supermalls and PMAP to expand job and upskilling opportunities nationwide

SM Supermalls and PMAP formally strengthened their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at bringing more accessible career fairs and workforce development initiatives closer to communities across the country.

SM Supermalls and the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) formally strengthened their commitment to empowering Filipino job seekers through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) held at the SM Supermalls Headquarters in Pasay City. This partnership reflects SM’s steadfast support for PMAP’s HumanITy mission—a vision that emphasizes a human-led, digitally enabled, and future-ready Philippines.

Steven T. Tan and Engelbert T. Camasura lead the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between SM Supermalls and the People Management Association of the Philippines, strengthening their shared commitment to expanding employment and upskilling opportunities for Filipinos nationwide.

Building on the success of their previous career fair collaboration, the partnership aims to expand the reach of nationwide job fairs while introducing more upskilling opportunities designed to help Filipinos become more prepared for the evolving demands of today’s workforce.

Steven T. Tan shares SM Supermalls’ continued commitment to 

creating meaningful opportunities for Filipinos through partnerships 

that support employment, growth, and community development.

The ceremonial signing was led by SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan and PMAP President Engelbert T. Camasura, together with key executives and representatives from both organizations.

Through this collaboration, SM Supermalls and PMAP aim to create more accessible platforms that connect employers with qualified talent across different regions in the country. Beyond job matching, the initiative also highlights the importance of continuous learning and workforce readiness through career development and upskilling initiatives.

As one of the country’s largest most-loved mall networks, SM Supermalls continues to transform its spaces into venues that create meaningful community impact — from employment opportunities and government service access to programs that support growth and empowerment for Filipinos.

With PMAP’s extensive network of HR and people management professionals nationwide, the partnership is expected to further strengthen regional career fair programs and bring more opportunities closer to local communities.

Leaders from SM Supermalls and PMAP come together in a shared mission to empower Filipino job seekers through nationwide job fairs, professional development, and upskilling opportunities.

Together, SM Supermalls and PMAP reaffirm their shared mission of helping build a more inclusive, future-ready, and digitally empowered Filipino workforce through accessible employment and learning opportunities nationwide.

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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.

PHOTO CAPTIONS

1. Steven T. Tan and Engelbert T. Camasura lead the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between SM Supermalls and the People Management Association of the Philippines, strengthening their shared commitment to expanding employment and upskilling opportunities for Filipinos nationwide.

2. SM Supermalls and PMAP formally strengthened their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at bringing more accessible career fairs and workforce development initiatives closer to communities across the country.

3. Leaders from SM Supermalls and PMAP come together in a shared mission to empower Filipino job seekers through nationwide job fairs, professional development, and upskilling opportunities.

4. Steven T. Tan shares SM Supermalls’ continued commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for Filipinos through partnerships that support employment, growth, and community development.

5. Executives from SM Supermalls and the People Management Association of the Philippines gather for the official MOU signing ceremony held at the SM Supermalls Headquarters.

6. The partnership between SM Supermalls and PMAP aims to strengthen nationwide career fair initiatives while helping equip Filipino talent with skills needed for the evolving workforce.

7. Through this collaboration, SM Supermalls continues to transform its spaces into accessible platforms for opportunities, career growth, and community empowerment.

8. SM Supermalls and PMAP reinforce their commitment to building a more inclusive and future-ready workforce through expanded employment and upskilling initiatives nationwide.

9. A meaningful partnership for Filipino talent develop  ni ment: SM Supermalls and PMAP unite to help connect more Filipinos to career opportunities and professional growth.

10. Representatives from SM Supermalls and PMAP celebrate a new milestone partnership focused on empowering communities through accessible job opportunities and workforce readiness programs.

SM for MSMEs Brings Opportunities Closer Nationwide this May

Metro Manila, Philippines — This May, SM Supermalls, through its SM for MSMEs program, continues to empower entrepreneurs and communities by rolling out a series of high-impact initiatives across the country—creating spaces where local businesses grow, jobseekers find opportunities, and communities thrive.

From local bazaars to job and business programs and regional trade showcases, SM reinforces its role as a nationwide platform for inclusive growth, enabling community opportunities  by connecting MSMEs to markets, mentorship, and meaningful opportunities.

Celebrating Local Love at NakakaLocal Bazaar in Davao (May 8–10)

SM Supermalls executives Jason Penna, Asst. Mall Manager of SM Baguio, Pats Dy, Senior Asst. Vice President for SM Communities Marketing and Royce Cabunag, Asst. Vice President and Lead for SM Communities together with Lucien C. Dy Tioco, EVP of PhilSTAR Media Group; Gladys Vergara, chairperson of the Baguio Tourism Council; Atty. Raymond G. Panhon, regional director, CAR Department of Trade and Industry open the NakakaLocal Bazaar at SM City Baguio, championing Filipino MSMEs and local creativity.

Kicking off the month is the PHILSTAR NakakaLocal Bazaar at SM City Davao from May 8 to 10, transforming the Annex Event Center into a vibrant celebration of Filipino creativity and entrepreneurship.

Timed with Mother’s Day, the bazaar offers a curated selection of thoughtful gifts, local crafts, and proudly Pinoy products, making it the perfect destination for families looking to celebrate with heart. Shoppers can discover unique finds, enjoy live performances from local artists, and experience the warmth of community through homegrown brands.

Proud locally made products—from handcrafted goods to curated gift items—take center stage at the NakakaLocal Bazaar, offering meaningful finds for shoppers. 

More than a retail event, NakakaLocal highlights how SM Supermalls provides MSMEs with high-visibility platforms that turn passion into progress.

Connecting Jobs and Businesses in Cebu (May 9)

On May 9, opportunities take center stage at SM Seaside City Cebu through Trabaho at Negosyo, a flagship program of the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship – Go Negosyo. Happening at the Mountain Wing Atrium, the event brings together jobseekers, entrepreneurs, mentors, and employers in one accessible venue—offering free business mentorship, financial guidance, market linkages, and on-the-spot job opportunities.

Angkas CEO George Royeca, HE President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., LT Group Inc. President Micheal Tan, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, Pasay Mayor Emi Rubiano, Go Negosyo Founder Joey Concepcion, PCCI Chairman George Barcelon and SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin, come together at Trabaho at Negosyo at SM Mall of Asia, reinforcing collaboration for livelihood and enterprise development.

Through programs like Trabaho at Negosyo, SM Supermalls strengthens its role as a community hub for opportunity, helping Filipinos build livelihoods, grow businesses, and prepare for a future-ready workforce.

A strong turnout of participants fills SM Mall of Asia, reflecting the growing demand for jobs, mentorship, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

A jobseeker at SM East Ortigas celebrates being hired on the spot at Trabaho at Negosyo—demonstrating how SM connects Filipinos to real opportunities.

MSMEs and aspiring entrepreneurs receive guidance from industry mentors, highlighting SM’s role as a hub for growth and learning.

Showcasing Negrense Excellence at the Bulawan Trade Fair (May 26–31)

Closing the month is the highly anticipated Bulawan Trade Fair at SM City Bacolod from May 26 to 31, in partnership with the Association of Negros Producers (ANP). The fair serves as a premier showcase of Negrense craftsmanship, innovation, and product excellence, featuring a diverse range of food, fashion, home décor, and artisanal goods. It also highlights prestigious competitions such as the Bulawan Awards, Pilak Awards, and Balik Salig Design Competition, recognizing excellence in design and product development.

Visitors explore curated exhibits of award-winning products, celebrating excellence in design and product development from Negros Island.

More than a regional showcase, the Bulawan Trade Fair serves as a gateway to national opportunities, enabling MSMEs to scale from local enterprises into competitive brands through SM’s expansive retail network.

Negrense craftsmanship takes the spotlight at the Bulawan Trade Fair in SM City Bacolod, showcasing locally made products rooted in culture and innovation.

An artisan demonstrates traditional weaving techniques, preserving heritage while creating livelihood opportunities through SM’s platform.

A Nationwide Platform for MSME Success

Across all these initiatives, one thing remains clear: SM Supermalls is more than a retail destination—it is a platform for growth, collaboration, and nation-building.

By providing:

• High-impact marketplaces

• Access to mentorship and market opportunities

• Platforms for employment and entrepreneurship

• Strong partnerships with government and private sector organizations

SM continues to champion over 17,000 MSMEs nationwide, helping them connect with customers, expand their reach, and build sustainable businesses.

From Davao to Cebu to Bacolod, SM for MSMEs brings opportunities closer to Filipinos—proving that when the right platforms are in place, local businesses don’t just grow, they thrive. Visit participating SM malls this May and be part of a movement that champions Filipino entrepreneurship and builds a more inclusive and resilient Philippine economy.

The Bulawan Trade Fair transforms SM City Bacolod into a dynamic marketplace where MSMEs connect with wider markets and new opportunities.

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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.