SM for MSMEs Brings Opportunities Closer Nationwide this May

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.

SM Supermalls Empower MSMEs at the 2026 DTI National Food Fair

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.

DTI and SM Supermalls Strengthen Partnership to Help MSMEs Scale

 

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.

Vinta Market sets sail at newly opened SM City Zamboanga, championing local MSMEs

The ceremonial opening marks the launch of Vinta Market, a vibrant marketplace dedicated to showcasing proudly local products from MSMEs across the Zamboanga Peninsula

As SM City Zamboanga opened its doors on March 20, the vibrant spirit of local entrepreneurship and culture took center stage with the unveiling of Vinta Market, a colorful marketplace dedicated to supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Launched in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 9 and the SM for MSMEs program, the Vinta Market brings together 20 local MSMEs, showcasing proudly regional products ranging from handcrafted items and artisanal goods to local delicacies, fashion pieces, and unique souvenirs.

 

SM Supermalls executives and DTI Region 9 officials lead the ceremonial opening of the Vinta Market at SM City Zamboanga, celebrating a new platform for local MSMEs. (L-R: DTI Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Director, Ma. Rovie Manzanares; DTI Zamboanga City Office Provincial Director, Grace Aduca; SM Supermalls AVP for SM Communities Program, Royston Cabunag; DTI Regional Director Al-Zamir Lipae; SM Supermalls SAVP for SM Communities Marketing, Pats Dy; DTI Assistant Regional Director, Maridel Dengal; and SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing, Joaquin San Agustin)

Inspired by the iconic vinta, the traditional sailboat known for its vibrant sails and deep cultural roots in Mindanao, the Vinta Market reflects the same spirit of color, movement, and community. The marketplace brings together passionate entrepreneurs and skilled artisans, offering mallgoers a lively and meaningful shopping experience rooted in local culture.

More than just a retail destination, the Vinta Market serves as a growth platform for MSMEs—and for many entrepreneurs, this opportunity translates into real business expansion and sustained livelihood.

“We are very happy for the opportunity given to us by SM City Zamboanga… because of that, I have a growing market and a lot of suki na at SM,” shared Maria Donna of Marya Soaps and Scents from Pagadian, highlighting how increased visibility at SM has helped strengthen her customer base.

 

For heritage artisans, the impact goes beyond business—it’s about preserving culture and passing traditions to future generations. “Maraming salamat sa mga opportunity na mga ganito na pwede kaming magbenta para makahanap lalo ng market… kayo na ‘yung kasangga namin sa pag-promote ng aming weave,” said Evelinda Otong, a 4th generation Yakan weaver, underscoring the importance of platforms like SM in sustaining local craftsmanship.

Through capacity-building programs and expanded market access, MSMEs are also able to scale their operations and reach wider audiences.

“With their trainings and seminars, we’ve learned a lot… we’re proud to say that we supply all over the Philippines—and with SM Supermalls, our products can reach around the country and are now in the mainstream market,” shared Shaun Alavar of Alavar Food Products, reflecting the broader growth opportunities enabled through the partnership.

Featured MSMEs proudly showcase their locally made products at the Vinta Market, highlighting the passion and dedication behind every creation.

During the launch event, SM Supermalls executives, DTI officials, and partner stakeholders joined entrepreneurs and guests in celebrating the opening of the marketplace—highlighting a shared commitment to empower local businesses and provide them with greater market opportunities.

Visitors explored booths filled with proudly local products—each representing stories of craftsmanship, passion, and perseverance. The marketplace quickly became a vibrant hub where mallgoers discovered unique regional goods while supporting local livelihoods.

 

Intricately crafted local products showcase the artistry and cultural heritage of Mindanao’s talented artisans.

The launch of Vinta Market stands as one of the highlights of the opening of SM City Zamboanga, the city’s newest lifestyle destination bringing together shopping, dining, entertainment, and community experiences closer to Zamboangueños.

Locally made delicacies from MSMEs offer shoppers a taste of Zamboanga’s rich culinary heritage at the Vinta Market.

Through initiatives like the Vinta Market, SM Supermalls continues to champion Filipino entrepreneurship, providing MSMEs with accessible platforms to grow their businesses while celebrating the rich culture and creativity of local communities.

As shoppers explore the colorful stalls and meet the passionate makers behind the products, the Vinta Market stands as a vibrant symbol of Zamboanga’s thriving entrepreneurial spirit—where tradition, creativity, and opportunity sail forward together.