The roof deck of SM City Marilao Carpark turned into a wild playground as 102 young cyclists from different parts of Luzon, including Bulacan, Pampanga, Caloocan, Malabon, Isabela, Valenzuela, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, and Tarlac, showed up for the Push Bike Race, in partnership with South Push Bike Race Philippines.
With the city skyline as a backdrop, the young cyclists, ranging from beginners to seasoned juniors, zoomed through a specially designed course that tested their speed, control, and determination.
The race took over the Carpark roof deck, full of sharp turns and surprising twists—perfect for kids just starting out and those who already know their way around a bike.
More than just racing, the event brought everyone together, promoting sportsmanship and a sense of community. Parents and guardians lined the edge, cheering, as the mall buzzed with play and a clear message on caring for the planet.
Through the Push Bike Race, SM City Marilao proudly serves as the Home of Everyday Celebrations, bringing people together through moments that matter—big and small. Rooted in the heart of Bulacan communities, every event celebrates life’s daily joys by creating meaningful experiences, offering exciting value, and fostering connections that feel close to home. From simple wins to shared milestones, every day at the mall is worth celebrating—together.”
This Valentine’s Day, show your love the tastiest way you can—through food. SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan have pulled together a bunch of Cupid-approved treats, from limited-edition cakes to meals made for two. Whether you’re planning a date or just want to spoil your favorite people, these picks are ready to make your day a little sweeter.
V-Day Treats
Nothing says “I care” quite like a handful of pastries from Brownies Unlimited, Goldilocks, and Dunkin. They’re not just a cute treat—they’re a simple way to make someone smile. Grab a box for your partner, your friends, or family, and share the love, one bite at a time.
Heart-Shaped Cakes
Go big on sweetness this year with a limited-edition Valentine’s Day cake from Mary Grace and Red Ribbon. It’s rich, festive, and almost too pretty to eat. Perfect for making your celebration feel extra special.
Wines and Chocolates
Set hearts ablaze with the perfect chocolate gift from SM Snack Exchange at the SM Store, and find great wine bottles at every price and for every preference at SM Market.
Better Two-gether Combo
Spread love with the Valentine’s Day Just for Two promo of Max’s Restaurant consists of 2 Chicken Combo Meals of your choice that come with a drink or soup. Remember, a happy tummy makes a happy heart.
As the home of everyday celebrations, SM makes Valentine’s Day extra special. Visit SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan, and celebrate with great food, great company, and unforgettable sweet moments.
MANILA, Philippines — Spain-based spirits brand Torres is officially entering the country through a distribution partnership with Tanduay. In its Philippine market debut, it will be introducing Torres 5 Light and other products that showcase its established portfolio and heritage in spirits-making.
“The arrival of Torres in the Philippines marks the coming of two great houses that are united by a shared commitment to excellence and growth. This partnership reflects our vision to offer Filipino consumers world-class spirits,” said Lucio Tan III, President and CEO of Tanduay.
Christian Visalli, Torres Spirits Global Managing Director, shared that they are looking forward to introducing Torres 5 Light to Filipino consumers.
“We are proud to bring the rich heritage of Spanish brandy to the Philippines. With Tanduay as our distributor, we are confident that Torres products will reach Filipino consumers who appreciate exceptional spirits with authentic Spanish tradition,” he said.
A Spanish Brandy Elevated for the Filipino Taste
Torres’ initial product lineup for the Philippines is bannered by Torres 5 Light. Crafted from quality grapes and aged using the Solera method in oak barrels, this brandy has a lighter, more approachable profile that feels right at home in local drinking moments while at the same time offering a refined, premium feel.
Best enjoyed over ice, it has a clear-medium-gold appearance with delicate aromas of grape, dried fruits, and vanilla, and a smooth, subtly sweet taste featuring notes of prune, grape, and vanilla, Bottled at 25% ABV, Torres 5 Light is a masterful balance of tradition, craftsmanship, and approachable enjoyment.
Torres 5 Light will be distributed nationwide along with Torres’ other premium products that cater to different types of drinkers – from the young and adventurous to the refined and sophisticated.
A Brand Steeped in Tradition and History
The Torres family has been cultivating vineyards in Penedès, Spain since the 16th century. In 1870, Jaime Torres Vendrell founded Casa Torres, a company dedicated to wine. Its brandy-making business started in 1928 when Juan Torres Casals started using oak barrels to age brandy made from the best white wines from Penedès.
Torres 5 Light will be available at leading supermarkets and groceries nationwide. Other Torres products will also be available in the first quarter of the year.
A new benchmark in home and building retail is set to begin as ACE Builders opens its largest store in Asia at SM City Baliwag. Covering over 6,000 square meters, this newest branch is the most expansive ACE store to date, offering a wide and complete range of construction supplies, home improvement products, and lifestyle essentials—all under one roof.
Designed for both homeowners and professionals, ACE Builders SM City Baliwag combines scale, selection, and service to provide a shopping experience tailored to real, everyday needs.
Everything You Need, All in One Place
ACE Builders SM City Baliwag carries an extensive lineup of trusted and reliable products across major categories:
Tiles&Flooring
Wall Cladding
Sanitary Wares and Plumbing
Paint and Paint Accessories
Electrical
Lawn and Garden
Home Hardware
Small Appliances
Hand and Power Tools
Automotive Products
Chemicals and Cleaning Solutions
Pet Care Essentials
Home Basics and Storage
From major renovation projects to simple home upgrades, the store is designed to meet the demands of modern Filipino households, contractors, and construction professionals alike.
Strengthening a Growing Network
ACE Builders SM City Baliwag joins other flagship stores in the ACE Builders network, including ACE Builders North EDSA, Fairview, and Pampanga. With the opening of its biggest location yet, ACE continues to expand its reach and improve accessibility to high-quality building materials and home solutions.
Since opening its first store in 1997 at SM Southmall, Las Piñas, ACE Hardware Philippines has grown into one of the country’s leading hardware chains, with 238 branches nationwide. The ACE Builders concept was introduced to provide a more comprehensive offering for customers needing larger-scale or more specialized products for construction and home projects.
With expert assistance from in-store staff, a wide product assortment, and a convenient location at SM City Baliwag, this store is set to become a key destination for building, improving, and upgrading living spaces in Bulacan and neighboring areas.
To find your nearest ACE Hardware or ACE Builders location, visit our store locator here.
SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag just turned mornings into a vibe as the malls brought together curated music, excellent coffee, and feel-good morning energy with the launch of Morning Beats & Brews.
Created for early risers, creatives, and culture lovers, Morning Beats&Brews delivers sounds paired with quality brews to set the tone for a productive and inspired day.
At SM City Marilao, a crowd of coffee fans gather at Cong Caphe and disco to the beat of music, with DJ Wency providing a lively yet laid-back atmosphere.
Meanwhile, SM City Baliwag, in partnership with The Coffee Bean&Tea Leaf, treats the crowd with a great dose of coffee to the tune of upbeat sounds by DJ Melvin.
More than just a morning routine, Morning Beats&Brews is a vibe designed to connect people through rhythm and flavor. Moments like these make SM Bulacan malls the “Home of Everyday Celebrations.”
Stay tuned as more vibin’ events will unveil your way in 2026. For updates, check out the official Facebook pages of SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan.
Hungry? SM City Marilao just got a whole lot tastier. Frankie’s and Bloom & Baker have landed, and honestly, food lovers in Bulacan should be celebrating. These two spots take comfort food up a notch—think big, bold flavors and desserts that just feel good.
Frankie’s pulls you in right away. Their wings are the kind you dream about, and the mains? Hearty, generous, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Whether you’re wrapping up a shopping spree or just looking for a laid-back meal, Frankie’s nails that balance between familiar and new. The kind of place you find yourself craving again and again.
Then there’s Bloom & Baker, just around the corner, and the vibe totally shifts. It’s calm, cozy, and smells like fresh pastries. If you love soft breads, cakes, or a good cup of coffee, this is your stop. You can hang out and soak it all in, or grab a box of treats to bring a little bit of sweetness home.
Frankie’s and Bloom & Baker together? They turn a regular mall trip into something special. Suddenly, SM City Marilao feels warmer, friendlier, and a whole lot more delicious.
MANILA, Philippines – For McDonald’s, every win deserves a celebration. From waking up early, arriving on time, or even avoiding traffic – they all deserve a celebration! Starting January 15, celebrate your everyday wins at McDonald’s for as low as P59.
McSavers Snack and Match gets more snaaaks sa sarap with the new Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich, available solo at P59, or as combo with other snacking favorites at P79 . Available for a limited time only, the Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich is a delightful combination of smokey, meaty flavor with a tangy, spicy kick. Just perfect for those looking to try a new, flavorful snack.
“We’ve said this last year and we’ll say it again: McDonald’s is about making our customers feel that their everyday wins are special. With McSavers Snack and Match, we want to help them celebrate their wins, and celebrate them deliciously. With the Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich, which is available for as low as PhP59 solo, or PhP79 with your favorite drink or dessert, celebrating shouldn’t be expensive. There’s always a reason to say, ‘Snaaaks!’ and celebrate with McSavers Snack and Match,” said Ada Almendras-Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines’ Chief Marketing Officer.
Snaaaks sa Sarap Ways to Celebrate Everyday Wins
For as low as PhP59, you can treat yourself with any of the following:
• The Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich (available for a limited time)
• Crispy Chicken Sandwich
• Cheesy Burger McDo
• McSpaghetti
• Regular Plain Fries
• Regular McShaker Fries (BBQ or Cheese)
Match your chosen main with a side under McSavers Snack and Match for only PhP79:
• Medium Coke McFloat with Hot Fudge
• Medium Royal McFloat
• Medium Coke/Coke Zero
• Medium Sprite
• Plain Sundae
McSavers Snack and Match is available via Front Counter, Take-Out, SOK, and Drive-Thru only. Meanwhile, the Smokey Melt Chicken Sandwich is also available in other meal types via Front Counter, Take-Out, Self-Ordering Kiosks, Drive-Thru, McDelivery, and 3POs.
For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Facebook, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X.
● Manulife is the first corporate partner to implement veritree’s Smart Forest technology in sites across the globe
● veritree’s technology will be brought to Asia for the first time in Manulife Impact Forest sites in Japan and the Philippines
● To date, Manulife Impact Forests have restored 160 hectares of land—an area roughly equivalent to 8,161 tennis courts
MANILA — Manulife recently announced the launch of Manulife Impact Forests[1] a global network of restoration sites designed to enhance biodiversity, create opportunities for local communities, and contribute to climate resilience. Working with our community planting partners[2] and veritree, the platform powering verified nature restoration, Impact Forests enhance Manulife’s efforts to contribute to a healthier planet, with benefits for people and planet alike.
Manulife Impact Forest in British Columbia, where new trees are being planted to restore burnt areas. The Nicola Watershed suffered extensive wildfire damage, affecting over 25,000 hectares of forest.
Manulife is the first corporate partner to implement veritree’s Smart Forest technology in its reforestation efforts. This collaboration also marks the debut of this technology in Asia, with deployments in Manulife Impact Forest locations in Japan and the Philippines.
Manulife Impact Forests are a global forest restoration initiative.
veritree’s technology combines satellite imagery, ground-level data, and bioacoustic monitoring to guide sustainable forest management. This innovative approach ensures accurate mapping of planting areas and selection of tree species that promote healthy forests and lasting benefits. Embedded into Manulife Impact Forest sites, veritree’s proprietary platform will deliver real-time insights and transparency throughout the lifecycle of each restoration project. The Manulife Impact Forests currently include sites in Canada, the U.S., Cambodia, Japan, and the Philippines. To date, more than 160 hectares of land, an area roughly equivalent to 8,161 tennis courts, have been restored.
Photo of equipment used in veritree’s Smart Forest design.
“Manulife is proud to announce the Manulife Impact Forests and to collaborate with veritree in deploying their groundbreaking Smart Forest Design technology around the world,” said Ariel Kangasniemi, Global Chief Sustainability Officer at Manulife. “As a business that is driven to help people live better, for longer, we believe that when nature does well, people do well. This collaboration exemplifies how innovation, accountability, and environmental stewardship can come together for the benefit of both.”
Data from Manulife’s Impact Forests will be uploaded within Manulife’s veritree impact platform, enabling real-time monitoring of Smart Forests. Trees planted within these sites across the globe will be tied to measurable outcomes: tonnes of carbon sequestered, hectares restored, biodiversity gains, and community benefits such as job creation and education. More than 185,000 trees have been planted so far.
Manulife Impact Forest in California. Following the 2013 Rim Fire, restoration efforts are underway.
“This is what scalable, verifiable restoration looks like,” said Derrick Emsley, CEO and Co-Founder of veritree. “Nature-based solutions are only as powerful as the trust people have in them. Through this partnership with Manulife, we’re proving that restoration can be both high-integrity and high-tech, connecting trees planted to real data, real people, and real results.”
In the Philippines, Manulife’s existing partnership with Haribon Foundation continues to advance reforestation and biodiversity conservation efforts through native tree planting and community engagement programs. All native trees planted by Haribon for Manulife will be monitored by veritree’s Smart Forest Technology, enabling real-time tracking of growth, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity impact to ensure transparency and measurable outcomes. As of the end of 2025, Manulife Philippines and Haribon have planted more than 31,000 plants in terrestrial and coastal areas across the country.
“As one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, the Philippines faces increasing risks from extreme weather events. This underscores the urgency of investing in initiatives that safeguard our natural ecosystems and uplift and empower local communities. The Manulife Impact Forests initiative reflects Manulife’s commitment to sustainability and longevity, ensuring that future generations inherit a healthier planet,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines.
To learn more about Manulife’s sustainability initiatives and community partnerships, visit Manulife.com/sustainability. To learn more about veritree’s technology, visit veritree.com.
Amy Gochuico, President & Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Chinabank Life Assurance Corporation
Rahul Hora, President & Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines
Paolo Borromeo, President & Chief Executive Officer, AC Health
Dr. Bev Ho, Chief Health Officer, AC Health
“At Manulife, we believe that prevention and early detection are essential to helping Filipinos live healthier and better lives,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “Our Asia Care Survey found that cancer remains one of the most feared diseases among Filipinos. This partnership with AC Health, which will provide cancer awareness, diagnosis and preventive programs, easier access to referral and care pathways, allows us to provide our customers with meaningful access to trusted cancer care.”
Through ManulifeMOVE, Manulife Philippines’ flagship holistic health program, customers will have access to cancer awareness programs and defined care pathways for cancer prevention and management offered by AC Health’s Healthway Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH). Customers can access information on ManulifeMOVE for a full spectrum of cancer care programs delivered by HCCH, from early detection and prevention services to Cancer Concierge support, case management, treatment planning, and second opinion consultations. They can also secure discounted screening packages nationwide, including FIT tests for colon cancer and screenings for cervical, lung, and breast cancer.
PHOTO CAPTION: (L-R)
Amy Gochuico, President & Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Chinabank Life Assurance Corporation
Rahul Hora, President & Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines
Paolo Borromeo, President & Chief Executive Officer, AC Health
Dr. Bev Ho, Chief Health Officer, AC Health
“AC Health is committed to making world-class cancer care accessible to more Filipinos,” said Paolo Borromeo, President and Chief Executive Officer, AC Health. “Through the Healthway Cancer Care Hospital and our nationwide network of hospitals and clinics, we continue to provide comprehensive, patient-focused support. This partnership with Manulife enables us to reach even more Filipino families, empowering them to take charge of their health through early detection and high-quality care.”
A fresh lineup of newly-opened shops has arrived at SM City San Mateo, giving mallgoers even more reasons to drop by, dine out, and enjoy their everyday gala. From comforting Filipino favorites to satisfying ramen bowls, quick coffee breaks, freshly baked treats, and wellness essentials, these new mall finds bring variety, flavor, and convenience for families, friends, and solo mall explorers alike.
SM City San Mateo welcomes a fresh mix of dining spots that satisfy both comfort cravings and quick bites. Japanese and Korean food lovers can enjoy rich, slurp-worthy bowls at Saiko Restaurant’s ramen bar, while Sisig Hooray serves its signature sizzling sisig—savory, filling, and perfect for lunch or dinner. For those needing a quick pick-me-up, Block Coffee offers quality coffee and refreshing drinks ideal for on-the-go mall breaks.
Completing the experience are everyday essentials that add convenience to every visit. Bulawan Panaderya fills the mall with the inviting aroma of freshly baked breads and classic Filipino pastries, perfect for take-home treats. Katinko rounds out the lineup with trusted wellness and pain-relief products, making self-care easy and accessible right inside the mall.
With these new shops, SM City San Mateo continues to be a one-stop destination where dining, daily needs, and comfort come together. From satisfying food trips to quick coffee stops and wellness must-haves, it’s all here—ready for you to gala to the max and enjoy truly all-out experiences every time you visit.
