SM Introduces Sparklo Reverse Vending Machines to the Philippines for the First Time Ever

SM Supermalls is strengthening its commitment to environmental sustainability through a new partnership with global cleantech company Sparklo. Expanding the reach of the SM Green Movement and the SM Green Recycling Machine (GRM) program, the partnership aims to make recycling more accessible, convenient, and rewarding for participating customers through SM malls nationwide.

The collaboration introduces Sparklo’s reverse vending machine technology in the Philippines for the first time, providing an innovative way for customers to recycle plastic bottles and cans while visiting SM malls.

“This initiative further elevates the role our malls play in ensuring a greener future, all for Filipinos. When we help make recycling accessible and rewarding, taking steps to protect the environment for a more sustainable tomorrow becomes as easy as stepping into your most-loved SM Supermall,” said Steven Tan, SM Supermalls President.

Technology for the Environment
The SM Green Recycling Machine program empowers communities by transforming every day mall visits into meaningful acts of environmental responsibility. By providing easily accessible avenues for customers to build the practice of recycling, the initiative helps divert plastic away from landfills while encouraging long-term sustainable habits among mallgoers. All collected plastics are properly processed and recycled, supporting SM Prime Holdings’ commitment to a waste-free future.

Customers simply place empty PET plastic bottles into the recycling machine, which collects and sorts the bottles for proper recycling while encouraging responsible waste disposal.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan tests the Sparklo reverse vending machine, underscoring SM’s commitment to empowering communities to build everyday recycling habits.

A Green Movement That Cares
The program is part of the SM Green Movement, the environmental sustainability platform of SM Supermalls that inspires communities to adopt greener lifestyles.

Under the program’s initial phase, 10 SM Green Recycling Machines have been deployed across selected SM malls nationwide, allowing customers to conveniently recycle PET plastic beverage bottles during their visits.

Participating locations include SM Mall of Asia, S Maison, SM Southmall, SM Aura, SM North Edsa, SM Megamall, The Podium, SM City San Lazaro, SM Seaside City Cebu and SM Lanang.

The partnership with Sparklo will further scale this effort through the planned rollout of 30 additional recycling machines in more SM Supermalls across the Philippines.

“By combining innovative recycling technology with community participation, the SM - Sparklo partnership aims to strengthen the country’s recycling ecosystem while promoting responsible waste management practices,” said Ellen Quilas, Sparklo Country Manager.

A customer uses the SM Green Recycling Machine Powered by Sparklo—symbolizing how simple everyday actions can help build a waste‑free future, one recycled bottle at a time.

A recycled‑plastic bin demonstrates how discarded bottles can be transformed into useful community assets—turning waste into purpose and supporting more sustainable habits for all.

Partnership for a Waste-Free Tomorrow
The expanded program also supports SM’s Waste-Free Future campaign, reinforcing the company’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship, plastic waste diversion, and sustainable community engagement.
Through partnerships, technology, and everyday participation from mall visitors, SM continues to make recycling easier and more accessible—empowering communities to take small actions that contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

SM Coastal Cleanups Go Beyond Trash, Teach Communities to Care

In celebration of World Water Day, SM Supermalls, through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, organized coastal cleanup activities across six locations with seven participating malls across nationwide, reinforcing its long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable waste management in its most-loved malls.

This year’s coastal cleanup emphasized enhanced waste segregation education to deepen understanding among volunteers and communities on proper sorting, recycling, and disposal of collected waste. It also underscored that everyday actions—from responsible waste disposal to recycling—play a critical role in protecting marine ecosystems.

The coastal cleanup activities took place across SM City La Union, SM City Urdaneta Central, SM City Tanza, SM City Daet, SM City Consolacion, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM J Mall, bringing together communities in a shared effort to protect local coastal environments and divert waste away from the ocean.

 

During the cleanups, collected waste was carefully sorted and categorized, allowing participants to see firsthand the types of materials commonly found in coastal areas—from plastic packaging and beverage containers to other discarded items that threaten marine life and coastal habitats.

By focusing on waste analysis and segregation, raised awareness on the impact of improperly managed waste and encouraged Filipinos to adopt more responsible environmental practices in their daily lives.

These coastal cleanup activities form part of SM Supermalls’ broader environmental sustainability programs, aligned with the SM Green Movement and the company’s Waste-Free Future campaign.

“Protecting our coastal and marine environments requires a more proactive, end-to-end approach with the cleanups starting with education, deepening awareness, and sustaining collective action,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director for Environment and Sustainability of SM Supermalls. “By helping communities understand the importance of proper waste segregation and responsible waste management, we hope to inspire long-term behavioral change that benefits both people and the planet.”

The initiative also highlights the spirit of bayanihan, bringing together mall communities, environmental partners, and local stakeholders in a shared effort to care for the environment.

As SM Cares continues to strengthen its sustainability programs throughout the year, the public is encouraged to participate in upcoming environmental initiatives, including World Oceans Day Cleanup Drives in June, International Coastal Cleanup activities in September, and National Environmental Awareness Month initiatives in November.

Through sustained efforts like these, SM Cares continues to empower communities to take part in protecting the environment—all for Filipinos, and all for the planet.

To learn more about SM Cares’ environmental initiatives and how you can take part in upcoming programs, visit https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

Egg Hunts, Parades, and More: Easter Comes Alive at SM Supermalls

Bring out those bunny ears and celebrate Easter in SM Supermalls around the country. 

This Easter, SM Supermalls transforms into a vibrant playground filled with egg hunts, parades, and colorful photo spots until April 5. Whether you’re bringing the kids or planning a fun day out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy to the max.

Expect a full lineup of activities, from interactive games and creative workshops to lively performances, delivering a memorable Easter experience for families and friends alike.

After all the Easter fun (or even before you start), take a break and refuel with a satisfying group dining experience at these must-visit spots:

Simmer into richness at Ninepot (SM North EDSA, SM City Clark)

Gather around the table and enjoy authentic Taiwanese hotpot at Ninepot.

Perfect for group dining, Ninepot brings people together over warm, flavorful broths and customizable sets perfect for sharing.

Indulge in a timeless bowl at Mak’s Noodle (SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia)

Share a comforting bowl and good conversation at Mak’s Noodle.

Craving something comforting? Enjoy authentic Hong Kong noodles, known for their flavorful broth and signature thin egg noodles—ideal for a quick yet satisfying meal together.

Savor rustic Italian flavors at Osteria Antica (The Podium)

Make your Easter gathering extra special with a refined Italian feast at Osteria Antica.

For a more elevated group dining experience, treat the family to refined Italian dishes like the Pompano Al Forno—perfect for special Easter gatherings.

Enjoy steakhouse comfort at Mamou (The Podium, S Maison)

Indulge in perfectly cooked steaks and rich, satisfying sides at Mamou.

A go-to spot for group dining and special occasions, Mamou serves hearty steakhouse favorites best enjoyed with your loved ones.

Experience Japanese elegance at Hoshino Coffee (SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM City East Ortigas)

Slow down and savor quiet moments over coffee and desserts at Hoshino Coffee.

End the day with hand-brewed coffee and fluffy soufflé pancakes that are perfect for relaxing and sharing sweet moments after a full day.

After a satisfying meal—or even before you start—make the most of your visit with these Easter activities:

Strike your best pose at the Bunny Photo Corner

Snap photos at vibrant Easter setups filled with pastel colors, bunny props, and playful backdrops—perfect for capturing fun family moments and colorful Easter memories.

Walk proudly at the Easter Runway Costume Contest

Dress your kids in their cutest Easter outfits and let them shine at the Easter Runway Costume Contest at SM Supermalls nationwide.

Dress up in your most creative Easter outfits—bunny ears and all—and strut your stuff at the Easter Runway Show. Kids and families can join in for a chance to win fun prizes.

Hop into the Easter Eggventure Game
Go on a digital egg hunt around select SM Supermalls, where hidden QR-coded eggs unlock points and exciting rewards through the Play at SM website. Make sure to explore every corner for a truly exciting adventure—it’s a fun, high-tech twist on a classic Easter tradition.

Unleash artistry at Easter Art Lab
Let kids get creative at the Easter Art Lab, where they can paint, craft, and bring home their own colorful creations—a fun keepsake from a full day of Easter fun.

March in the Easter Parade

Celebrate Easter with a full day of excitement, featuring fun-filled games, a creative costume contest, and amazing prizes.

Watch beloved Easter characters come to life in festive parades across select malls. Dance along, interact with mascots, and soak in the cheerful atmosphere as the whole family celebrates together.

Honor tradition with a meaningful Easter Blessing
For families who want to celebrate the deeper meaning of Easter, select malls will hold Easter Sunday Mass on April 5, offering a quiet moment to pause, reflect, and give thanks.

Whether you’re dining with loved ones, hunting for eggs, or enjoying a full day of activities, your most loved mall, SM Supermalls is the place to be this Easter. Don’t miss out—plan your visit and make it an Easter to remember.

Sun‑Powered Spaces: How SM Is Transforming Malls into Energy Hubs

To reduce congestion to the power grid and improve power availability to the communities it serves, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) has implemented the use of rooftop solar power systems across its properties and nationwide network of SM Supermalls.

Since its pioneering installation of solar panels over SM North EDSA in 2014, clean solar energy generated through SM is now large enough to power a city as large as Mabalacat, Pampanga or Mandaue, Cebu.

“The use of solar power enables SM Supermalls to elevate the service we provide to our customers by embedding sustainability into our daily operations,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “When Filipinos visit their most-loved SM malls, they are entering a space that actively helps preserve the environment through responsible resource management, reducing carbon emissions while ensuring more resources remain available for our surrounding communities.”

Maximizing space makes room for energy efficiency

SM currently utilizes 65 hectares of space for its rooftop solar panels—which is almost as big as the entire SM Mall of Asia complex, but has also applied innovative ways to maximize mall space for energy efficiency.

SM Group now generates the largest capacity of clean energy among property developers in the Philippines

Across the SM Mall of Asia's MOA Sky, solar panels have been seamlessly integrated into the walkway that wraps around the property—doubling as overhead covering for mallgoers strolling and enjoying leisurely walks. 

By utilizing this space, SM generates enough power to run 1,000 escalators a day or power 1,800 homes for a month.

Another innovative application of means to harness solar power can be found in SM City Bicutan's solar-powered parasols decorating its Sky Garden. The understated use of the solar-powered parasols not only add to the Sky Garden's ambience but also provides functional use as nighttime lighting for customers of surrounding establishments.

The parasols efficiently provide five hours of nighttime lighting for only three hours of daytime charge, effectively reducing the need to use electricity throughout the evening until the mall's closing time.

"Our approach to building malls that satisfy our customers and stakeholders go beyond giving them what is expected. We believe it is up to us to be proactive in enriching the mall-going experiences of Filipinos by investing in seamless, sustainable solutions that allow us to preserve natural resources for many years to come," said Tan.

Take Your Malling Experience to the MAX with all the Best New Firsts in Cebu at SM Supermalls

We all want the best for ourselves, and we’ll do whatever it takes to get it. We wanna look good, feel good, and be our absolute best, all the time. We want every experience that takes us to the MAX!

Good news: SM Supermalls has you covered. From fashion fits to foodie spots that hit different, here are all the new ways you can max-out your malling experience with your most-loved mall in Cebu!

STEP 1: Stylemaxxing – Get in your best fit

It all starts with what you wear. Does it fit? Is it swag? More importantly, does it make you appreciate yourself more?

Anothersole

A first in Cebu, this Singaporean footwear brand is where fashion meets sustainability. Known for its eco‑conscious, leather laced-up flats and sandals, Anothersole in SM Seaside City Cebu’s Upper Ground Level, City Wing, is a globally-renowned brand that’s sure to bring casual comfort and everyday wearability to your fits, while keeping conscious fashion at a maximum.

Charles & Keith

Max‑out your everyday wardrobe at the new, soon-to-open Charles & Keith, where contemporary fashion feels more elegant at the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu. From casual fits to going‑out goals, it’s a style destination that serves bold, chic energy every time you go out.

Victoria’s Secret

Get your angel wings ready, and be prepared to max out your runway‑ready figure at the first-in-Cebu Victoria’s Secret at the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu. Famous for its lingerie, loungewear, and beauty essentials, this lifestyle favorite offers pieces that level up your confidence and feel‑good energy.

STEP 2: Looksmaxxing – Look good, feel sexier

Looking good is not enough! To feel better, you gotta be healthier.

Bath & Body Works

Look good, feel fresh, and feel confident in yourself. Indulge with the first-in-Cebu Bath & Body Works at the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu, with body care essentials and seasonal fragrance collections that not only max out how you look, but how you feel as well. Looking good feels better when you feel amazing.

STEP 3: Foodmaxxing – Taste only what’s best!

Lastly, no feel-good guide is complete without the best reward for that complete, maxed-out vibe—great food!

Mr. & Mrs. Thai

Take your sawasdee to Visayas and satisfy your Thai food cravings to the max at the new, soon-to-open Mr. & Mrs. Thai in SM City Cebu, Main mall. With a menu rooted in classic Thai favorites, it’s the perfect stop for foodies looking for vibrant, spice-packed eats in Cebu.

Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Grill

Premium steak, you ask? Let’s take that up a notch at the first Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Grill in Cebu. From ribeyes and filet to elevated comfort sides and crafty bar bites, it’s a steakhouse experience that serves next-level satisfaction, where world-renowned USDA Prime Black Angus beef takes center stage here at the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu.

Yakiniku Like

For hands-on grilling that's sure to maximize all the space inside your stomach, opening soon in Cebu, the all-new, Yakiniku Like is here to deliver Japan’s solo yakiniku concept to the Upper Ground Level, North Wing of SM City Cebu, with quick service, premium slices, and an interactive BBQ experience perfect for fueling up solo or with your crew.

Mallmaxxed so hard, you’re sure to come back for more! That’s SM Supermalls for you—giving you all you need to feel your best and take your everyday experiences to the MAX!

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