The brand turns the spotlight on an empowered Filipina who blends confidence, comedy, and modern beauty.

White Castle Whisky has named GMA Network artist and digital creator Ashley Rivera as its 2025 Calendar Girl, highlighting a version of femininity that is confident, self-aware, and unapologetically fun. Known for her sharp humor and strong personality, Ashley represents a modern Filipina who owns both her beauty and her voice.

For decades, the White Castle calendar has been a cultural marker for many Filipinos. Growing up, it was easy to tell a White Castle calendar at a glance—there was always a white horse, a striking model, and a castle backdrop or a beach setting. Those images became iconic, with Cristine Gonzales standing out as one of the most memorable faces from the brand’s storied past. 

Ashley’s selection signals a shift that still respects tradition while reflecting the present. Her presence brings a lighter, more relatable energy to the calendar, aligning with White Castle Light Whisky’s message, “Dapat light lang!”—a reminder that strength and confidence can also come with humor.

The official unveiling of the White Castle Whisky 2026 Calendar is set for December 19, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Rampa Drag Club in Quezon City, where media and guests will get a first look at the new calendar.

By joining the White Castle lineup, Ashley becomes part of a legacy that includes Evangeline Pascual, Lorna Tolentino, Techie Agbayani, Carmi Martin, Maria Isabel Lopez, Cristine Gonzales, Glydel Mercado, Roxanne Guinoo, Niñoong Ry, SassaGirl, Ria Atayde, Angelie “Pench” Andanar, and others—women who defined beauty in their own eras.

This year’s calendar highlights empowerment beyond appearances. Ashley is portrayed as a woman who is comfortable in her own skin—smart, funny, and expressive—showing that confidence today comes from authenticity as much as glamour. 

“I’m incredibly honored and thrilled,” Ashley said. “White Castle Whisky has such an iconic place in Filipino culture. To be chosen as the 2025 calendar girl feels surreal. I’ve been dreaming about this after being inspired by Tita Carmi Martin, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we created.”

Ashley is a GMA Sparkle artist who became widely known as a former regular cast member of Bubble Gang, the country’s longest-running sketch comedy show. Her work on television showcased not just her looks, but her timing, wit, and ability to connect with audiences.

Before mainstream television, she built a strong following online through TikTok and YouTube with her alter ego “Petra Mahalimuyak,” a character that used humor to reflect everyday Filipino experiences. The persona helped establish Ashley as a creator who uses comedy as a form of empowerment. 

In 2024, she expanded her platform by launching the podcast Chicks 2 Go with fellow comedian and internet personality Hershey Neri. The show centers on candid conversations, laughter, and relatable stories, offering a space where women can speak freely and honestly.

In one of the podcast’s early episodes, Ashley shared her long-time dream of becoming a calendar girl, inspired by Carmi Martin, the White Castle calendar model in 1984. The moment reflected how childhood admiration can turn into real-life milestones through persistence and self-belief. 

White Castle Whisky continues to celebrate Filipino identity by recognizing women who reflect the times. With Ashley Rivera as its newest calendar muse, the brand underscores that empowerment can be graceful, funny, and proudly modern.

For more information on White Castle Whisky and updates on Ashley Rivera, follow White Castle Whisky on Facebook.

As families spend more time at home during the holidays, whether hosting reunions, streaming Christmas movies, gaming with loved ones, and staying connected with long-distance relatives, PLDT Home makes the season even more meaningful with its exclusive Holiday Treats.

PLDT Home’s holiday offerings surely elevate everyday moments at home. From binge-worthy streaming nights and lag-free gaming sessions to smart living at home, PLDT Home bundles unlimited connectivity, entertainment, and smart home upgrades into one festive promo.


Unleash Unlimited Entertainment at Home


For just ₱1,799 per month, customers who subscribe to PLDT Home Fiber Unli All enjoy free speed boost of up to 500 Mbps for the first six months, perfect for simultaneous streaming, online gaming, and video calls with loved ones. This promo also comes with free installation, a one-year iGV Game Pass, Cignal TV, and ₱1,000 worth of Rewards Crystals, making holidays even more enjoyable for families.


Whether it’s movie marathons after Noche Buena, kids gaming during the school break, or virtual holiday catch-ups with relative and friends, PLDT Home ensures reliable connections this Christmas.


This season is also the perfect time to refresh and upgrade the home. With Next Upgrade smart home gadgets, PLDT Home customers can enjoy discounts of up to ₱14,995 off on a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, home appliances, wearables, and smart home sensors. These upgrades help create a more comfortable, efficient, and future-ready home, which is ideal and timely for hosting guests or simply enjoying quieter holiday vacation with family.


Rewards for Holiday Cheer


To make the holidays even more rewarding, PLDT Home Fiber subscribers automatically earn up to 1,000 worth of Rewards Crystals, which can be used for bill rebates or redeemed with popular partner merchants such as Grab, Maya, Steam, Garena, Zalora, Lazada, and more. That’s perfect for holiday shopping, food deliveries, or digital treats.


PLDT Home also extends its holiday treats for Fiber Prepaid customers who also get a chance to win Lazada vouchers and exclusive Next Upgrade discounts.

Enjoy PLDT Home’s Holiday Treats until December 31, 2025. For more information, visit www.pldthome.com. .

Entrepreneurs and partners gather at the MSME Summit 2025 hosted by Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines in partnership with SM Supermalls at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia.

Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, in partnership with SM Supermalls, welcomed entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to the MSME Summit 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. The event showcased the shared commitment of Jobstreet and SM Supermalls to empower Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and foster sustainable growth for the nation’s backbone industries. Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, highlighted the summit’s goal: supporting MSMEs as a driving force of the Philippine economy. 

“SM is not just a venue—it’s a partner in every MSME’s success story,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls. “When MSMEs grow, the nation grows. Every small business that thrives represents a dream realized, a livelihood sustained, and a community strengthened.” SM’s own growth story mirrors that of its MSME partners. From a small shoe store in Carriedo to 88 malls nationwide, SM understands the value of small beginnings. “Almost 70% of our tenants are MSMEs—their success is the foundation of SM’s continued growth,” San Agustin added.

Through the SM for MSMEs program, the company provides high-foot-traffic spaces, market access, and visibility to help entrepreneurs scale sustainably. 

Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College accepts her Plaque of Appreciation from Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet (right) by Seek Country Marketing head.

Key sessions addressed practical needs for MSMEs. Participants learned how to scale their first hire with Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet, explored AI applications for small businesses with Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College, and received insights on logistics and operations from Lalamove PH, 2GO Travel, and DITO BizBayan. Ms. Life Dawn Cervero of TikTok guided attendees on smart marketing on a budget, while a panel from BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo, and Asialink shared finance hacks for sustainable growth. 

 

Industry experts Ms.Flor Tanay of Lalamove PH, Mr. Francis John Cha of 2GO Travel, and Mr. Gabriel Cui of DITO of BizBayan present logistics and digital solutions designed to help MSMEs scale. 

 

MSME Summit 2025 partners BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo and Asialink host a panel learning session tackling finance hacks for MSMEs

Success stories, like Kay & Karl Santos of 1919 Chocolate, inspired participants with real-life examples of scaling Filipino businesses. Partner demos and the Partner Passport Challenge reinforced networking, learning, and practical engagement.

Attendees make their rounds at the Partner Passport Challenge, visiting different booths to learn about hiring solutions, business tools, digital platforms, and partner services that support MSME growth.

The MSME Summit 2025 reaffirmed SM Supermalls’ commitment to Filipino entrepreneurship, providing programs, spaces, and partnerships that help MSMEs innovate, scale, and thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.

Life’s more fun when you have more access to discovering new things. From small errands to bigger adventures, you get to enjoy the best of living when you continue to expand the things you love! SM Supermalls brings a new era of firsts to explore and discover, with exciting brands heading your way—now closer than ever, right here in Cebu. With SM Supermalls, you no longer have to travel across regions, because the best experiences are now within reach. 

Sweet & Savory at SM City Cebu 

Craving for some authentic Japanese food experience? Check out the newly opened YAYOI—savor the taste of traditional Japanese Teishoku, offering a completely satisfying set meal of main entrée, steamed rice, miso soup, and seasonal sides.

Lookout for these food spots heading your way this May, serving food items you’ll love closer to you:

Manam—a celebrated Filipino bistro offering both classic and modern interpretations of traditional dishes is opening its first-in-Cebu branch this May 26.

Ooma—a modern Japanese dining spot known for its bold flavors and creative dishes, blending traditional Japanese cuisine with contemporary twists. It is opening its first-in-Cebu store this May 28.

Café Laguna—a well-established Filipino restaurant chain, renowned for its authentic Tagalog-style dishes, bringing the comforting flavors of Luzon to the Visayas, is set to open this May 8.

Abaca Baking Company—beloved Cebu-based café and bakery chain serving artisan-crafted breads, all-day breakfast offerings, and premium coffee selections, opening this May 10.

Ramen Kuroda—a popular Japanese restaurant serving authentic, high-quality ramen, crafted with homemade noodles and rich, flavorful broths. 

Indoor Sports & Japanese Favorite Meals at SM J Mall

The experience of Japan continues in Mandaue City, Cebu with Yuki-Kun—savor Japanese cuisines, featuring familiar flavors and beloved dishes available at the mall’s Food Hall area. Expect more fun soon with even more First in Cebu experiences:

Ramen Nagi—authentic, customizable ramen bowls featuring rich, savory soup and handcrafted noodles, because your J Mall experience isn’t complete without a sizzling bowl of this Japanese favorite. iSwing Golf Arena—enjoy a round of golf without the scorching heat of the sun, all thanks to their indoor, high-tech golf simulation experience. 

Coffee & Treats at SM Seaside City Cebu

Satisfy your sweet cravings with these new dessert and dining destinations opening their first stores in Cebu:

Beard Papa’s—Japanese cream puff chain known for its freshly baked choux pastries which opened last April 25.

Conti’s—the Filipino bakeshop beloved for its iconic cake specials and signature comforting savory dishes, opened its first-in-Cebu store last April 30.

Giving coffee lovers more to look forward to, the rapidly growing Pickup Coffee headlines their upcoming first-in-SM premium café concept, offering elevated brews perfect for a productive lifestyle.

Never run out of things to add to your itinerary. Explore beyond limits and discover exciting firsts here in Cebu with SM Supermalls.

Expand your horizons here in Cebu—only here at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

 This month marks a new chapter for Davao as SM Supermalls welcomes a bold new era with evolving finds just for you.

SM City Davao, the first and largest SM mall in Mindanao, opens its Expansion Building bringing fresh urban experiences for every Davaoeño. From Insta-worthy dining scenes to stylish hangouts, every spot is designed to be pure feed goals.

With over 120,000 sqm of added space, this is more than an expansion—it’s an evolving destination made for shopping, style, and leisure to come together in ways you’ve never seen before. All to show that here at SM Supermalls, we truly got it all for you.

Dining Hotspots Ready to Serve You
Hungry? You’re in for a culinary treat as we bring you a lineup of handpicked restaurants serving everything from casual fine dining to comforting Filipino classics and bold Singaporean flavors.

Brique - If there’s one thing our bisaya brothers from Cebu know best, it’s good food! Bringing their distinctly Cebuano flavors for the first time in Davao, Brique—soon to open at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion—combines modern cuisine with a provincial touch that’ll fondly remind you of nanay’s home cooking.

Nanyang - For the first time in Davao, get the best of what Singapore has to offer. Serving some of Southeast Asia’s finest delicacies, Nanyang at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion, delivers hearty dishes that cater to the Filipino palate. From aromatic Laksa to savory Curry Chicken Rice, the possibilities are endless.

The Joy of Fluffiness
Making its first mark in Davao, Puffy’s is bringing its signature charm to the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion. Known for its cloud-like soufflé pancakes, this sweet spot is the newest must-try in SM Supermall’s irresistibly crave-worthy lineup. Whether you go for Original, Crème Brûlée, or Tiramisu, every bite is delightfully light and perfectly Instagrammable!

Your Unique Finds
Looking to add a little more everyday flair? From customizing your Aquaflask tumbler to finally grabbing that self-help book you’ve been eyeing—or even spotting that one item you didn’t know you needed—discover a specially chosen mix of finds to make your every visit more exciting.

Aquaflask - Find their newest designs at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion and drink in style! Now fully customizable, these vacuum-insulated bottles let you enjoy your cold or hot drinks anywhere without breaking the bank.

Gashapon Bandai - Collect high-quality gacha toys, keychains, and accessories while having a bit of thrill—or dismay—with the first Gashapon Bandai in Davao at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion. From Dragon Ball and Gundam to Demon Slayer and Pokémon, just pop a coin into these vending machines and score a surprise collectible.

Fully Booked - For the first time in Davao, a true bookworm’s haven awaits. Find your next great read as you experience a warm, cozy ambiance here at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion. Featuring a wide selection of books across various genres—including hard-to-find titles—Fully Booked is a true bibliophile haven.

Flying Tiger - In search of unique knick-knacks and quirky finds? For the first time in Davao, Flying Tiger at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion is the novelty store for you. Liven up your living space and personalize your room with their playful crafts, trinkets, and ornaments.

Level Up Your Style
Who says activewear has to be drab? For the first time in Davao, Anta at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion lets you turn the gym into your personal runway. Featuring a premium sports line of ready-to-wear apparel, trainers, and bags, it’s everything you need to break a sweat—in style!

From crave-worthy food hubs and fashion finds to accessories and quirky trinkets, every corner is made to make your feed more aesthetic. No matter how you spend your time, enjoy curated experiences not just to enjoy, but to share, only here in this #NewEraOfSMSupermalls.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

At SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), water stewardship has come a long way since its early initiatives. As part of its environmental sustainability strategy, the programmatic Water for Tomorrow campaign looks beyond water recycling and efficient water management.

For SM Supermalls, this urgent call to action to protect and preserve a valuable resource makes any large-scale investment in water security a sound opportunity to do good for both people and planet.

SM Southmall in the late 90’s. Located in the water-challenged area of Las Pinas, the mall was the first to have a sewage treatment plant (STP) for water recycling. It opened to the public in 1995, followed by SM Bacoor in 1997, saving a significant volume of water otherwise used for flushing.

Amplified impact
With 89 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls high-impact yet practical water management systems and circularity practices build long-term capacity for future water disruptions and reflect the malls’ greater ecosystem.

A community solution. At the launch of SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility (RTF), innovation meets sustainability and sets a benchmark for water efficiency.

Having introduced sewage treatment plants nearly three decades ago, well before any compliance requirements, SM Supermalls also made significant investments in efficient low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies to prevent unnecessary consumption at scale. In 2023, the first rainwater treatment facility by a mall opened in Baguio to convert rainwater into another potable resource, alleviating pressure on the local water grid.

At a cultural level, SM Supermalls becomes a living sustainability classroom where mallgoers, employees, and tenant-partners are made aware of its water, waste, and energy programs. Partnerships with NGOs, government agencies, and civic groups also sustain water conversations through the mall’s broad reach and are crucial to the sustainability agenda.

SM Cares engages communities, mallgoers, and tenants in water conservation initiatives that inspire mindful consumption and collective action. 

Embedding the message of water sustainability, SM Cares champions UN SDG6 – using every mall touchpoint and social media to create content on water conservation, access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene for health and well-being

Water sustainability is a shared responsibility across all SM malls. SM Cares engages and promotes water conservation initiatives that inspire mindful consumption and collective action.

As a vital community hub, the malls promote the wider SM Green Movement campaign, empowering people to practice responsible water use.

The first mall to receive LEED Gold Certification in 2017, SM Aura’s wastewater treatment plant and smart water management technologies ensure responsible and efficient water use.

Building what matters, today
Water’s essential role supports human activity and economic growth. As climate concerns accelerate and affect water supply, SM Prime’s unified stance on water stewardship prepares for challenges ahead.

SM Supermalls not only assists larger partner-tenants with compliance and the bottom line. It similarly inspires smaller businesses and other stakeholders that depend on mall operations to adopt innovative solutions.

“The scale of what we are doing today for water is already proof that we are reaping the benefits of the innovative vision of our leadership,” says Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

“What makes our programs truly meaningful is how they bring people and purpose together. It creates a ripple effect of sustainability that reaches beyond our walls,” said Tan.

 This month, Metro Cebu welcomes you with feel-good flavors, playful finds, and cozy new spots to enjoy. With the long weekends giving more time to unwind, it’s the perfect chance to explore something new—whether you’re craving a quick bite, refreshing your routine, or simply slowing down.

In this bold new era of SM Supermalls, evolving finds are waiting for you–where everything is thoughtfully chosen to match the way you live from hanging out with friends to relaxing solo. From dining to lifestyle, these new experiences are here to make everyday moments in the spaces you already love even more special, because we truly got it all for you here at SM Supermalls.

Where Delight Awaits You in SM City Cebu
In the heart of the city, SM City Cebu keeps things exciting with spaces and experiences that feel fresh. Its expanded mix features curated brands, exceptional dining, and premium finds—all handpicked to fit the way you shop, connect, and relax. From carefully selected lifestyle picks to specially chosen finds, here are a few worth checking out to make your next visit even more memorable.

Dyson - This first in Cebu is ready to turn your everyday chore into something you’ll actually look forward to! Step into a world of sleek design and smart technology here at SM City Cebu—where tasks, from cleaning to hairstyling, will feel less like a chore and more like a treat. From effortless hair styling to powerful home must-haves, we’re all about making your life smoother, smarter, and a little more stylish.

Cibo - Craving the kind of comfort only a perfectly twirled forkful of pasta can give? We’ve got you. At Cibo in SM City Cebu, you’ll find Italian classics made the way they should be—fresh, flavorful, and timeless. From hearty pastas and wood-fired pizzas to refreshing salads and signature desserts, consider your taste buds officially on a holiday—no passport required!

Fully Booked x Kinokuniya - Open a new chapter at the Second Level of SM City Cebu with the first-ever Fully Booked x Kinokuniya in Cebu. Step into a world of stories and ideas—where Japanese-language titles, bestselling novels, and timeless classics meet creative journals, unique stationery, and lifestyle treasures. Every shelf invites you to discover something new, spark your imagination, and take inspiration home with you.

Your Gateway to the Unexpected at SM Seaside City Cebu
With its stunning seaside views, SM Seaside City Cebu sets the stage for experiences that feel a little out of the ordinary. From standout dining with breathtaking backdrops to unique stores and activities that will make your long weekend even more exciting, each stop is here to bring something unexpected to your day. Check out these picks worth discovering on your next day out.

Co. Limited – Craving a little thrill on your plate? The wait is over—Co. Limited is bringing the vibrant flavors and energy of Thai street food to Cebu for the very first time. Opening September 30 at SM City Cebu, get ready to savor bold bites and an experience you won’t forget. With a fresh pairing of elevated touches, every bite is chosen to keep your taste buds on their toes from zesty salads to sizzling stir-fries! Peep this crave-worthy eat at the Upper Ground Level, Seaview Wing.

Issy – Effortless beauty makes its first mark in Cebu at the Second Level, Seaview Wing—bringing makeup and skincare essentials that are easy to use, versatile, and endlessly chic. From everyday staples to bold statement shades, each piece is chosen to let you play, experiment, and discover your own kind of glow.

From flavorful firsts to lifestyle picks, Cebu’s newest experiences are here to bring you more curated ways to enjoy your day. Whether it’s a day out with friends or a quick solo trip, there’s something new waiting for you here in this #NewEraOfSMSupermalls.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!