What if your used plastic bottle could become part of something much bigger? Through the right machine it can!

SM Cares, through the SM Green Movement, has partnered with recycling technology company Sparklo to deploy SM Green Recycling Machines to 30 SM Supermalls across the country. Through the nationwide deployment across SM’s network of most-loved malls, responsible waste disposal becomes easier, more engaging, and more rewarding for mallgoers.

The reverse vending machines empower customers to deposit eligible plastic bottles in exchange for rewards. The partnership turns simple mall, customer visits into pathways to help support the SM Green Movement through responsible waste management and segregation to divert waste away from landfills and maximize resources through recycling.

SM Green Recycling Machines are now available in key locations across Metro Manila, Batangas, Laguna, Cavite, Bulacan, Pampanga, Baguio, Pangasinan, La Union, Rizal, and Cebu.

Each plastic bottle placed in the machines represents more than properly managed waste. It is a small but meaningful choice that helps keep recyclable materials in circulation, supports responsible consumption, and brings communities closer to an SM Waste-Free Future.

The partnership forms part of the SM Cares Environmental Sustainability Program under its Waste Management Pillar. It complements SM’s existing circular economy and waste management efforts, including the Trash to Cash Program and the Plastic Waste Collection Program.

Through initiatives like these, SM Cares seeks to make sustainable living easier to understand and practice. Rather than asking people to make sweeping changes all at once, the SM Green Recycling Machines show how everyday actions—repeated by families, students, young people, and communities—can collectively create lasting environmental impact.
With Sparklo’s technology and the reach of SM Supermalls, recycling becomes more than a responsibility. It becomes a convenient and rewarding habit that Filipinos can carry into their daily lives—one plastic bottle and one better choice at a time.

From thousands of hopefuls across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, thirty of the country’s brightest young dreamers took center stage at the SM Little Stars 2026 Grand Finals. Captivating the audience at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, the finalists showcased exceptional talent and charm in a nationwide celebration of Filipino youth. More than a talent search, the annual competition highlights SM Supermalls’ commitment to discovering and nurturing limitless potential from every corner of the Philippines as these children embrace the biggest stage of their young lives.

The Grand Finals marked the culmination of six weeks of auditions held across 68 of your most-loved SM Supermalls nationwide. More than 41,000 children aged 4 to 7 showcased their talents in singing, dancing, and other skills, with only 30 exceptional finalists earning coveted spots in the country’s biggest nationwide kiddie talent competition. While every finalist inspired the audience with their passion and determination, two young dreamers ultimately earned this year's highest honors.

Gratiela showcases her dance moves, while Amiah serenades the audience with her rendition of the classic Disney song “When You Wish Upon a Star” during the SM Little Stars 2026 Grand Finals.

Gratiela Thresse M. Urmeneta of SM City Manila was crowned this year’s Grand Shining Star, while Amiah Kaea Yzobel Quimzon of SM City Butuan earned the title of Grand Dazzling Star. Their remarkable performances and irresistible charm won over both the audience and the judges, bringing the competition to an unforgettable conclusion.

Urmenete wowed the audience with her energetic dance performance, while Quimzon serenaded the judges and crowd with her heartfelt rendition of the classic Disney song “When You Wish Upon a Star.”

For the mothers of the newly crowned stars, seeing their children take home the competition's highest honors was a proud and emotional moment after weeks of preparation and support. "Sobrang proud ako sa kanya. Nakita ko kung gaano siya nagsikap at nagtiwala sa sarili niya. Bukod sa pagkapanalo, masaya akong makita siyang lumabas sa stage na mas confident," said Sheilamay P. Mojuntou, mother of Grand Shining Star winner Gratiela Urmeneta.

Meanwhile, Vanessa Ysmaela D. Quimzon, mother of Grand Dazzling Star Amiah Quimzon, shared, "Gusto lang namin na ma-enjoy niya ang experience, kaya napakalaking bonus na makita siyang manalo. Thankful kami sa SM Little Stars sa pagkakataong ito."

Beyond the competition itself, the Grand Finals became a celebration for families, friends, and supporters who filled the venue with cheers, applause, and heartfelt encouragement.

“Watching these young dreamers perform reminds us that every big journey begins with one brave step. SM Little Stars has always been more than a competition; it is a place where children discover confidence, families create lifelong memories, and dreams begin to take shape. We are proud to continue providing that stage for Filipino children year after year," said Hanna Carinna T. Sy, SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Leasing.

This year’s finalists were evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges composed of singer, actress, and host Karylle Yuzon, award-winning filmmaker Antoinette Jadaone, OPM hitmaker and ABS-CBN Music Assistant Vice President Jonathan Manalo, "Gala To The Max" choreographer Angel Datanagan, and SM Little Stars 2016 Grand Winner Marcus Cabais. Their expertise and insights helped recognize the young performers who best embodied the talent, confidence, and stage presence that define SM Little Stars.

Urmeneta and Quimzon were joined by 1st Runner-Up Amara Jade F. Sabino of SM City Lipa, 2nd Runner-Up Seth Nicolas B. Jacinto of SM City San Jose del Monte, and 3rd Runner-Up John Rouie S. Dizon of SM City Pampanga.

As this year's top winners, Urmeneta and Quimzon each received a prize package worth celebrating, including ₱100,000 in cash and SM Gift Certificates, a National University college scholarship, a brand-new car, an all-expense-paid trip to Hong Kong, and many more exciting rewards.

Aside from crowning the two grand winners, SM Little Stars 2026 also recognized three runners-up, the finalists who placed sixth to tenth, and recipients of the special awards: People’s Choice Award, Little Style Stars, Little Sparkling Stars, and Little Pop Star.

Beyond the titles and prizes, every finalist took home something even more meaningful—the courage to dream bigger, cherished memories with their families, and the confidence to take the next step in their journey. These unforgettable moments are a testament to the enduring legacy of SM Little Stars, which continues to inspire young talents and create meaningful experiences for 17 years and beyond.

SM Cares, in partnership with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), brought The Blackout Zone to the CHED Central Office Auditorium at the Higher Education Development Center Building in Diliman, Quezon City from July 21 to 22, 2026.

Developed through SM’s Mall for All drive on inclusivity, the immersive exhibit invited students, educators, and members of the academic community to experience life without sight in a controlled and safe environment. Participants were guided through everyday activities designed to encourage them to look beyond limitations and recognize the abilities, independence, and resilience of people with visual impairments.

“Sometimes, understanding begins when we are willing to step outside what is familiar,” said Richard V. Caluyo, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Cares. “By bringing The Blackout Zone closer to schools and the academic community, we hope to inspire young people and educators to help build learning environments where every person feels seen, respected, and included.”

For a few moments, participants stepped into complete darkness. Without relying on sight, they navigated familiar tasks through touch, sound, scent, and the reassuring guidance of others. What emerged was something lasting: a deeper appreciation of how persons with visual impairments experience and move through the world each day.

Previously mounted in SM malls, The Blackout Zone has featured sensory and everyday activities such as tying a shoe, preparing coffee and sandwiches, identifying candy and scents, and experiencing Movies for the Blind. Its CHED installation marked a meaningful step beyond the mall setting, allowing the initiative to reach people who help shape classrooms, institutions, and future generations.

Through its partnership with CHED, SM Cares hopes to deepen conversations around accessibility and encourage higher education institutions to strengthen inclusive practices both inside and outside the classroom.

“Our united goal with SM for The Blackout Zone is for the program to serve as a catalyst for meaningful action,” said CHED Commissioner Michelle A. Ong. “Empathy allows us to dismantle the barriers that hamper inclusion and education of Filipinos with vision impairments. Through this shared effort, we hope to further guide policies tightly woven with real-life experiences to serve this sector better.

The experience also served as a reminder that inclusion is not built through awareness alone. It grows through empathy translated into thoughtful actions—from offering clear assistance and respecting independence to creating spaces where people of all abilities can participate fully.

The Blackout Zone forms part of SM Cares’ continuing programs for persons with disabilities, which promote accessibility, sensitivity, inclusive employment, and meaningful participation in community life.

Because while participants entered the exhibit without sight, many left seeing inclusion more clearly.

Filipino readers had the chance to meet and hear from two prominent national figures during a special Top News Asia magazine signing held Aug. 14, 2026, at National Book Store in Araneta City, Cubao, as part of the Philippine Readers and Writers Festival 2026.

Hosted by TAG Media Group and led by its President and Editor-in-Chief, Engr. Grace Bondad-Nicolas, the gathering featured two distinguished guests: Comelec Chairman Atty. George Erwin Mojica Garcia and corporate executive, former congressman and Philippine Air Force Reserve Officer Brig. Gen. Michael “Mikee” Lagman Romero.

More than a traditional magazine signing, the event became an opportunity for readers to engage directly with the personalities featured in Top News Asia through an open and insightful Q&A session.

Empowering young voters through civic education

Atty. Garcia highlighted the growing influence of young voters in the country’s recent elections, stressing the importance of an electorate that understands its role in shaping the nation’s future.

He emphasized that an informed and empowered youth can help drive long-term national progress. Atty. Garcia also encouraged leaders from both the public and private sectors to strengthen civic education efforts and give voters practical knowledge that can help them make informed choices at the polls.

For Atty. Garcia, educating voters is not only about elections. It is also about helping Filipinos recognize the importance of choosing leaders who can promote sound economic policies, create opportunities and build a business-friendly environment.

From business success to public service

BGen. Romero, meanwhile, shared personal insights from his journey as a businessman and public servant.

Having achieved corporate success early in his career, BGen. Romero spoke about the responsibility that comes with creating wealth. He stressed that financial success should go beyond personal achievement and become a means of creating opportunities and contributing to positive change in society.

He also reflected on his transition into national service and his involvement with the Armed Forces of the Philippines Reserve Command, where he has supported initiatives involving marginalized communities.

His story offered readers a glimpse into how leadership can take different forms, from building businesses and creating jobs to serving communities and supporting national causes.

Connecting leaders and readers

The magazine signing gave attendees a rare opportunity to interact with the people behind the stories they read in Top News Asia. The conversations went beyond headlines, allowing readers to hear personal experiences, career lessons and perspectives on leadership and public service.

For TAG Media Group, the event reflects its continuing effort to make its publications and featured personalities more accessible to Filipino readers.

By bringing leaders, storytellers and the reading public together, TAG Media Group continues to create spaces where meaningful conversations can take place, encouraging Filipinos to read, engage and learn from the experiences of those helping shape the country.

The Top News Asia magazine signing at the Philippine Readers and Writers Festival 2026 served as another reminder that magazines are more than pages and stories. They can also become a bridge connecting readers with people, ideas and conversations that matter.

If you're always on the lookout for what's new, you're in the right place! And yes, we’re sure you saw the photo above…the most-awaited tumbler brand now officially made its way to the Philippines! 🫶🏼 From brands opening their very first stores to exciting new dining concepts and lifestyle favorites arriving at SM, brings plenty of fresh reasons to stop by. Here's a look at the latest openings across Metro Manila.

● Garmin

Experience the newly opened biggest Garmin store in Southeast Asia at Level 4, Mega B, SM Megamall. Explore Garmin's full lineup of GPS smartwatches, fitness trackers, cycling computers, dive watches, and outdoor navigation devices—all in one immersive space designed for athletes, adventurers, and everyday movers alike.

● Benlai

Find your next everyday essential at Benlai, now at Level 1, North Main Mall of SM Mall of Asia! Making its Philippine debut, the brand brings functional lifestyle wear that combines clean, contemporary style with lightweight comfort for wherever the day takes you.

● POLO Ralph Lauren

Experience the first-ever POLO Ralph Lauren store in SM at Level 2, South Main Mall of SM Mall of Asia. Discover timeless American style through the brand's signature collection of elevated essentials, from iconic polos and tailored classics to refined pieces made for everyday sophistication.



● MiniMelts

Cool down with a fun frozen treat at the first MiniMelts store in SM, now open at the Ground Level, North Towers of SM North EDSA. Famous for its colorful beaded ice cream, MiniMelts offers a playful dessert experience with a variety of flavors for all ages.

● Yabu

Enjoy authentic Japanese katsu at Yabu, now at the Ground Level of SM City Marilao. As the brand's first branch in North Luzon, it brings its signature premium pork and chicken katsu, unlimited cabbage, and Japanese set meals closer to diners in the region.

● Evernaked

Indulge in handcrafted cakes at the first Evernaked in the Philippines, now open at Level 2, City Center of SM North EDSA. Bringing its signature cakes from Shanghai, Evernaked serves beautifully crafted desserts made with quality ingredients, perfect for celebrations or simply treating yourself.

When people talk about saving money, they usually talk about numbers: how much they've managed to set aside, how much interest they're earning, how much more they need before they reach their goal. But behind every savings account is usually something much bigger: a long-awaited trip, a child's education, a first home, an emergency fund, or simply the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're financially prepared.

A look at anonymized and aggregated savings data from Maya, the country's leading financial services platform, shows that while financial priorities differ across stages of life, many of the reasons people save are surprisingly universal. Across generations, they aren't simply putting money away—they're building toward the lives they want.

Travel is one of the biggest savings goals

If there was one insight that stood out, it was this: travel isn't just a Gen Z goal. Travel or vacation ranks among the top two savings goals across every generation in Maya’s customer base.

That same behavior is reflected in Maya Personal Goals, where travel is one of the most frequently created savings goals. With users able to create up to five personalized savings goals, many are carving out dedicated funds for everything from overseas adventures to family vacations, while keeping other priorities on track.

Perhaps that's because some of life's biggest milestones aren't things we own, they're moments we remember.

Peace of mind is just as important as life's milestones Travel may be one of the biggest aspirations, but it's far from the only one.

Across generations in Maya’s customer base, savings and emergency funds repeatedly appear among the leading financial priorities, pointing to a shared desire to feel more financially prepared regardless of age. Investments, retirement, and other future-oriented goals also emerge depending on a person’s stage of life.

While people may define financial security differently, the motivation behind it feels surprisingly similar: wanting to feel ready for whatever life brings.

For many people building that financial cushion, Maya Savings offers a way to grow their money while keeping it accessible for both planned milestones and life's unexpected moments. Users can earn up to 15% interest p.a. as their savings continue to grow. Because sometimes the best financial goal isn't buying something new. It's knowing you're prepared if life doesn't go according to plan.

Long-term goals evolve with every stage of life

Although people continue saving throughout their lives, what they're saving for naturally changes differs across generations.

Education, gadgets, travel, and other early-life milestones feature prominently among younger Maya users, while retirement and long-term financial security become more visible among older generations.

Maya offers different ways to save depending on what users are building toward. While Maya Savings helps users grow money they may still need access to, Maya Time Deposit Plus, with rates of up to 6% p.a. and the flexibility to top up funds during the deposit period, has become an increasingly popular way to grow money that's meant for the longer term.

Younger Filipinos are already thinking ahead

One of the more surprising findings is that Millennials, Gen Z, and even Gen Alpha account for the largest groups of active Time Deposit Plus users, suggesting that younger Filipinos aren't simply saving for what's next, they're already setting money aside for the long term.

Older generations, meanwhile, made larger average deposit per transaction, not because they're necessarily better at saving, but because they've had more time to build their financial capacity.

The data suggests that saving isn't defined by age, but by life stage. While financial goals change over time, the habit of preparing for the future remains constant.

If Maya's latest savings insights reveal anything, it's that people rarely save for the sake of saving. They're saving for the first plane ticket they've been dreaming about, for the emergency fund they hope they'll never have to use, for a child's education, for the freedom to upgrade their home, start a business, or simply say yes to opportunities without second-guessing their finances.

In many ways, money is just the means. The real goal has always been the life it helps make possible.

To know more, 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.

As part of its commitment to making banking easier for travelers, East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) is renewing its support for Philippine tourism through a two-year partnership with the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) as the exclusive credit card partner and co-presenter of the 37th and 38th Philippine Travel Mart, the country's longest-running travel trade exhibition.

Building on its partnership with PHILTOA that began during the 36th Philippine Travel Mart in 2025, EastWest continues to support Filipino travelers through secure payment solutions, flexible financing options, and travel-focused credit card benefits.

During the Philippine Travel Mart, EastWest cardholders can enjoy one complimentary ticket for every qualified ticket purchase, applicable to both 1-day and 3-day passes, from August 1 to September 6, 2026. Cardholders will also have access to special deals and 0% installment payments at select exhibitors.

Visitors can also expect a one-stop showcase of the best travel experiences the Philippines has to offer, with nearly 300 exhibitors from across the country. Beyond exclusive travel deals, attendees can discover emerging destinations, locally curated experiences, and connect directly with tour operators, hotels, airlines, and tourism stakeholders.

"Travel has a unique way of bringing people closer to the places, cultures, and experiences that matter most. As the Philippine Travel Mart champions 'Nurturing the NextGen Tourism,' we hope to inspire more Filipinos to explore the country and support them with the payment solutions and benefits that make every journey easier and more rewarding," said EastWest President Jacqueline S. Fernandez.

The 37th Philippine Travel Mart will be held from September 4 to 6, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City.

To know more about EastWest credit cards, visit https://www.eastwestbanker.com/

A new wellness destination is opening its doors in the heart of Quezon City, offering clients a different approach to aesthetic and regenerative health care.

Inoue Health and Wellness Clinic officially held its grand opening Sunday, Aug. 2, at the Caswynn Building along Timog Avenue, directly across from the GMA Network complex.

The clinic combines physician led medical treatments with the comfort and atmosphere of a luxury wellness space. Its goal is to make medical and aesthetic care feel less intimidating while giving clients a more personalized experience.

“The way care is delivered speaks beyond every treatment.” This serves as the guiding philosophy of Inoue Health and Wellness Clinic.

Making Health Care Feel More Personal



Led by Co Founder and Chief Operating Officer John Mark Calinao, together with a team of medical professionals that includes Dr. Joey Sinchioco, Inoue was created around the idea that patients should feel comfortable and cared for from the moment they walk through the door.

Instead of the usual cold and clinical setting, the clinic uses a warmer, hospitality focused environment while maintaining physician led medical care.

For clients, this can make the experience feel more relaxed, especially for those who may be nervous about medical or aesthetic procedures.

The clinic offers services focused on skin health, regenerative wellness, customized IV nutritional drips, stem cell therapies and longevity medicine.

A Location Close to the City's Media Community

Its location along Timog Avenue also gives Inoue a strategic position within one of Quezon City's busiest entertainment and media areas.

Being close to the GMA Network complex places the clinic near media professionals, entertainment personalities and other urban clients who may be interested in wellness and aesthetic services.

The clinic also plans to use digital platforms to help explain medical treatments in simple and understandable ways.

Practitioners such as Dr. Joey Sinchioco use social media platforms, including TikTok, to discuss topics related to skin treatments, laser technology and regenerative medicine.

For a field that can sometimes feel complicated, this kind of public education can help clients better understand their options before scheduling a consultation.

Grand Opening Offers

Who says learning and play only happen in the classroom? This season, parents can transform every shopping trip into an exciting adventure as Kidtopia Mini Stations bring interactive, educational, and hands-on activities designed to keep kids engaged while creating meaningful family moments.