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, job seekers 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.

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.

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

Backed by the strong partnership between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and SM Supermalls, the five-day event transformed retail space into a high-impact platform where local businesses don’t just sell—they scale.

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

Beyond exposure, the National Food Fair serves as a launchpad for scaling businesses—combining DTI’s development programs with SM Supermalls’ nationwide retail reach. “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,” said King Del Rosario of Coffee and Mead Corporation. “The support, accessibility, and stronger sales show how SM provides MSMEs like us the right environment to grow.”

Connecting Regions to the Nation

For regional entrepreneurs, access to national markets is often the biggest barrier—one that the National Food Fair helps break. “Through DTI trade fairs at SM Supermalls, we were able to bring our products from Bicol to a national market,” shared Larry Lee Ong of Orange Country Enterprises. “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.” By bridging regional producers to urban consumers, SM enables MSMEs to move from local relevance to national competitiveness.

 

From Demand to Expansion

At the heart of the fair is a simple but powerful outcome: real demand. “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,” said Alvin Samson of Easter Joy Rabbit Ventures. “Every time we’re in SM, we sell out—proving the strength of the platform in helping us grow faster and reach new markets.” This demonstrates how strategic marketplaces drive not just awareness—but measurable business outcomes.

Culture, Community, and Inclusive Growth

Beyond commerce, the fair highlights the role of MSMEs in preserving identity and creating livelihoods. “We’re not just selling products—we’re sharing our culture,” said Sherly Biase of Basilio’s Kini-ing Food Processing. “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.” 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:

o DTI providing capability-building and enterprise support

o SM Supermalls offering scale, access, and market integration

o 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,” said DTI Secretary Cristina Roque. 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.

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.

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

What if one day could shape both how you work and how you earn? Trabaho at Negosyo brings employment and entrepreneurship together—redefining the job fair as a career launchpad that connects Filipinos to jobs, mentoring, and skills for what comes next.

Thousands participated as Go Negosyo, in partnership with SM Supermalls, mounted the March 6 Trabaho at Negosyo at SM Mall of Asia—transforming a single day into a career crossroads all for Filipinos. Fully supported by SM Job Fairs and SM for MSMEs, this comprehensive event created vital community opportunities by matching job seekers with employers and providing aspiring entrepreneurs with expert mentorship and clear pathways to success.

“MSMEs like us contribute to the economy because as we expand, so does our requirements – like manpower, so we are able to contribute through creating jobs.” - JORGE WIENEKE of Tokyo Tempura

At the heart of the event was a large-scale job fair connecting applicants with employers from key sectors including BPO and IT, manufacturing, construction, real estate, healthcare and medical services, retail, financial services, tourism, hotels and restaurants, and the academe. Just steps away, aspiring entrepreneurs received practical mentoring on how to turn business ideas, side hustles, and small enterprises into sustainable ventures—demonstrating how trabaho and negosyo can grow side by side.

With SM Job Fairs providing the platform and reach, employment opportunities were brought closer to communities—making job access more immediate, practical, and inclusive. Meanwhile, SM for MSMEs highlighted the vital role of micro, small, and medium enterprises not only as businesses, but as job generators and engines of inclusive growth. While many participants were hired on the spot, others left inspired to build enterprises that could create jobs for others.

“Nakakatuwa po, ang bilis. In-expect ko po babalik pa ako. Masaya po ako, hindi na ako tambay! Sa tingin ko po mago-grow po ako sa bago kong work.” - MA. FLOREBEL QUILILAN, Hired on the Spot by Hi Precision

To further streamline the journey from application to employment, SM Government Service Express enabled participants to process key requirements on-site. Participating agencies included the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Social Security System (SSS), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth), and the Pag-IBIG Fund—making essential services more accessible in one convenient location.

“Maganda po na nandito sa ganitong event, kasi we’re not just hiring, but we’re also on the lookout for opportunities for our business with the other businesses here, para po to compliment each other.”- MELODY ADVIENTO of Clinica Manila

Trabaho at Negosyo tells a bigger story—today’s job seeker can become tomorrow’s employer. By combining job matching, MSME mentoring, and government services in one space, the initiative reflects a forward-thinking approach to workforce development where employment and entrepreneurship reinforce each other.

Through collaborations like this, SM Supermalls continues to strengthen its commitment to empowering Filipinos—championing both livelihoods and local enterprises, and proving that when trabaho and negosyo move together, communities move forward. 

 

The 2026 DTI–Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair concluded at SM Megamall after five days of showcasing Filipino enterprise, creativity, and resilience—bringing together MSMEs, institutional buyers, and consumers in a highly accessible, high-engagement setting that turned commerce into a shared public experience.

DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque and DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Bautista together with Embassy Officials and stakeholders mark the opening of the DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair 2026, highlighting how accessible platforms like SM Supermalls help bring national initiatives closer to the public (Right photo)

DTI Key Officials mark the opening of the National Trade Fair 2026, highlighting how accessible platforms like SM Supermalls help bring national initiatives closer to the public.

Held from February 18–22, 2026 at Megatrade Halls 1–3, the fair featured locally made food, fashion, home, and lifestyle products, business-matching opportunities, and curated exhibits highlighting sustainable production and elevated Filipino design. These on-ground activities supported the Bagong Pilipinas agenda by expanding market access, strengthening value chains, and creating pathways for MSMEs to scale.

SM executives (L-R) Mr. Royston Cabunag, AVP for SM Communities Program, Ms. Liza Silerio, VP for Corporate Compliance Group, Ms. Pats Dy, SAVP for SM Communities Marketing try on hand-embroidered, fashion-forward pieces by an indigenous artisan from Abra—bringing stories from the mountains to the heart of the city. Through DTI and SM, indigenous MSMEs gain wider market access, celebrating culture, craftsmanship, and inclusive growth in one shared space.

"It's rare to find a place where you can get the chance to buy the best of the Philippines, and it's good that it's in a very accessible location." -Ezekiel Rosales and Michelle Milla - Trade Fair Customers (Left photo)

"Nakakatuwa po na naipapakita namin ang aming mga gawa sa ibang lugar. Kasabay po noon ay kumikita pa kami." - Jezriff Anni - Zambulu Artworks (Right photo)

"Ang galing po kasi noon, doon lang kami sa bayan namin sa Aklan nakakapagbenta. Ngayon po, two years na kami nakakasali sa trade fairs and lumawak na po ang market namin. May mga orders na po kami galing sa ibang lugar." -Jezethel Bandiola - Bandiola's Piña Weaving (Left photo)

The staging of the National Trade Fair at SM Megamall highlighted how well-loved, high-traffic urban spaces can function as effective platforms for national programs—giving MSMEs the opportunity to reach new markets, test products in real time, and engage directly with partners and consumers.

“Our partnership with SM goes beyond providing space—it is about building a full ecosystem for MSMEs. Through SM Supermalls and its retail businesses like SM Department Store, SM Markets, and Kultura, MSMEs are given real market access, visibility, and opportunities to scale. This kind of private-sector commitment is exactly what enables Filipino entrepreneurs to grow, professionalize, and contribute meaningfully to inclusive national development,” said Cris Roque, Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry

By supporting nationally significant trade fairs, SM Supermalls broadens MSME reach through accessible, high-visibility locations, supports business growth through professional environments designed for market readiness, and contributes to nation-building by aligning its mall infrastructure with programs that generate livelihood and strengthen local industries.

The National Trade Fair fostered a powerful sense of shared purpose where commerce, culture, and community converged reinforcing the belief that economic growth is most meaningful when it is inclusive, experiential, and deeply connected to the people it serves.

As demonstrated by the 2026 DTI–Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair, SM Supermalls continues to deliver on its commitment on Max Out Experiences, living out its promise of “All for You.” As your most loved mall, SM Supermalls transforms its spaces into dynamic platforms for entrepreneurship, cultural celebration, and meaningful public engagement going beyond retail to champion inclusive national growth and create experiences thoughtfully designed for every Filipino.

Women-led businesses took center stage as the WomenBizPH Trade Fair successfully opened at SM Lanang Premier from March 12–14, celebrating the creativity, resilience, and growing impact of Filipina micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Organized by WomenBizPH in partnership with SM Supermalls, the three-day trade fair brought together inspiring women entrepreneurs showcasing a vibrant mix of proudly local products—from artisanal pastries and handcrafted accessories to healthy snacks, woven apparel, delicacies, and wellness products.

More than just a marketplace, the event highlighted the powerful stories behind the brands, demonstrating how women entrepreneurs continue to transform passion into purpose and innovation into livelihood opportunities.

Women entrepreneurs take center stage at the WomenBizPH Trade Fair at SM Lanang Premier, where women-led MSMEs proudly showcased local products in celebration of Women’s Month.

Filipina entrepreneurs proudly present their brands at the WomenBizPH Trade Fair, highlighting the creativity, resilience, and innovation of women-led MSMEs.

From handcrafted fashion pieces to artisanal food products, women-led MSMEs showcased a diverse array of Filipino creations at the WomenBizPH Trade Fair.

Sustainable fashion takes the spotlight as women-led brands present handcrafted apparel that celebrates Filipino craftsmanship and modern design.

Inspiring Stories Behind Women-Led MSMEs 

Behind every product on display is a powerful story of determination, innovation, and purpose. Across the country, women entrepreneurs continue to transform challenges into opportunities, building businesses that uplift communities and preserve Filipino craftsmanship.

Empowering Artisans Through Creativity

Sustainable and timeless—these two words define the aesthetic of Sassy’s Creation Enterprise, a brand where traditional Philippine craftsmanship meets modern innovation. By blending heritage weaving techniques with contemporary design, Sassy’s Creation produces ethically curated fashion staples designed for EveryBODY, using upcycled fabrics and locally sourced weaves that reflect both sustainability and style.

Behind every Sassy piece are the skilled hands of women artisans, including home-based mothers and women from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Antipolo, Rizal, who carefully craft each item with dedication and pride. Through these collaborations, the brand provides meaningful livelihood opportunities while celebrating Filipino craftsmanship.

For the founder of Sassy’s Creation, entrepreneurship is not only about building a brand—it is also about uplifting communities. “Our goal is not only to create meaningful products but also to support local artisans and weaving communities across the country,” she shared.

By working closely with weaving communities and showcasing their handcrafted pieces through trade fairs and retail platforms, Sassy’s Creation continues to help preserve traditional Filipino crafts while bringing them into today’s lifestyle and fashion landscape. Discover their products on Instagram: @sassyscreationph

Carrying Forward a Legacy

For Cynthia M. Eusebio, owner of Magpoc’s Pastry Products Manufacturing in Bataan, entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in family heritage.

“Magpoc’s isn’t just a label—it’s a legacy of providing for our community. I stepped into this role to honor the women who came before me while evolving the brand for the next generation,” she shared.

Now a third-generation leader of the brand, Eusebio continues to innovate by expanding Magpoc’s reach through digital platforms and new product offerings while preserving the traditional recipes that built the business. Discover their products on Facebook: MagpocsAraroCookies

From Survival to Strength

For Cebu-based entrepreneur Cuevas Planas, founder of Kirby’s Chicharon, her business journey represents resilience and the courage to start over. “I started small, making chicharon and quietly selling to stores and offices. That small income became my hope and my courage—it helped me rebuild my life and prove that even from nothing, you can rise again,” she shared.

Through perseverance and faith, Planas built her brand from humble beginnings, eventually gaining the confidence to showcase her products in larger markets and trade fairs. Discover their products on Facebook: kirbyschicharonph

Turning Passion into Healthy Innovation

Meanwhile, Flaviano’s Health Food Products, based in Laguna, was born from a shared passion for creating innovative food products.

“Every challenge teaches us something. Even during difficult times like the pandemic, we continued innovating and moving forward—because every step we take brings us closer to success,” the entrepreneur shared.

Today, the brand continues to develop healthier food options while exploring new opportunities to reach more customers through platforms like SM Supermalls. Discover their products on Facebook: FlavianosFood

SM Supermalls: A Launchpad for Future Filipino Brands

Through initiatives like the WomenBizPH Trade Fairs, SM Supermalls continues to serve as a marketplace where MSMEs can grow, gain visibility, and reach new markets.

“At SM Supermalls, we see MSMEs not just as exhibitors but as future brands in the making. By providing accessible platforms where entrepreneurs can showcase their products and connect with customers, we help nurture the next generation of Filipino brands,” said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls.

For many entrepreneurs, showcasing their products in SM malls represents a major milestone—opening doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and customers.

This commitment reflects SM Supermalls’ long-standing advocacy of supporting MSMEs as drivers of inclusive economic growth and community development.

Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs

This Women’s Month, SM Supermalls invites shoppers to discover the inspiring women behind these brands and support their journeys toward growth and success.

Because when women entrepreneurs rise, they do more than grow businesses—they uplift families, empower communities, and inspire the next generation of leaders.