Two Negrense talents wowed the crowd and stole the spotlight during the media launch of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair last Aug 26, 2025 — and their names are worth remembering. Their gastronomic menu was just a taste of what’s possible: innovative, world-class, and proudly Negrense!
Chef Cara Davis (Halong, Makati) – trained in Michelin-starred kitchens from New York to San Sebastián, she now fuses bold Asian flavors with her Mexican culinary background.
Think uni toast with foie gras and crab aligue pave — just some of the inventive dishes she crafted, alongside many other culinary creations.
Chef Luis Locsin (private dining star) – CIA-trained, with global stints from Jean Georges NYC to Bali, he now curates private dining. His charcuterie spread at the launch featured Negros blue cheese, Don Papa rum pâté. Proudly Negrense, globally trained.
Pâté en croute, and Casa del Formaggio Stracciatella, olive oil, and confit tomatoes
This year, the Negros Trade Fair makes its historic debut at SM Aura — and it’s bringing with it the flavors, fashion, and flair of Negrense heritage. Here are the main reasons of must experiences for foodies, fashionistas, and lifestyle lovers you don’t want to miss:
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#1 Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories
Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and chic tropical fibers reimagined for today’s wardrobe. Paired with striking local jewelry and artisanal accessories, these pieces prove heritage and modernity can walk the runway together.
#2 Handcrafted Home Finds
From pandan to bamboo to buri — Negrense artisans transform natural fibers into elegant accents for your home. Discover design-forward décor and furnishings that bring timeless Negros craftsmanship into modern living spaces.
#3 Artisan Sweet & Savory & Pasalubong
Stock up on flavors that define Negros: – From Mumshies’ delicacies to Virgie’s home-made mango tarts and pastries, plus savory favorites like the Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod and a lot more — Sweet or savory, these iconic bites are made for gifting — or for keeping all to yourself.
Experience More at HIMBON
Beyond shopping, HIMBON is a celebration of Negrense culture. Sip on Don Papa rum and locally crafted wines as live acoustic music fills the air, bringing the warmth of Negros hospitality right to the city. Let the fair inspire your next adventure with showcases of pristine beaches, heritage haciendas, and food tours — each one an invitation to experience Negros firsthand. And of course, every artisan booth and styled corner is a story waiting for your feed, so don’t forget to capture your #HimbonMoments along the way.
At its core, HIMBON means “to gather.” And this fair is exactly that — a gathering of food, fashion, and heritage that celebrates both tradition and modern creativity.
• Save the Date: Sept 23–28 | SMX Convention Center, SM Aura • Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before.
From global bites and steaming hot pot to bold mural backdrops and barkada game nights, this East-side hub is built for every kind of hangout.
Foodies, art lovers, and gamers—this new hangout spot in the EAST has something for every squad.
From Neapolitan pizza and Okinawan steak to billiards showdowns and art-filled corners, the new East Wing at SM City East Ortigas is more than just a foodie playground—it’s a vibrant hangout spot. Whether you’re a foodie chasing global flavors, an art enthusiast hunting for Instagram-worthy backdrops, or gamers up for friendly matches at the Game Park, this East-side destination brings together passions in one stylish space.
For the Art Squads: The Glow-Up by Kiefsix
Adding to the cool factor? Manila-based illustrator and creative director Kiefsix (Kiefer Indiongco) transformed blank walls into massive, colorful murals. His basketball-inspired, bold designs turn the East Wing into an open gallery, making it as much an art crawl as a hangout hub. And with EYO, a fun, sun-inspired character also designed by Kiefsix, visitors get a playful guide through the space—always selfie-ready and Insta-friendly.
For the Foodies: A Passport of Flavors
The East Wing lineup reads like a culinary world tour:
Paris Baguette – Bakery brand from South Korea serving pastries and cakes.
Hoshino Coffee – Signature hand-dripped coffee and soufflé pancakes from Japan.
Du Hsiao Yueh – Taiwan’s iconic Dan Zai noodles.
Jiangnan Hot Pot and Grill – Authentic Chinese broths, meats, and sauces made for sharing. Rossopomodoro – Neapolitan pizza and pasta straight from Italy.
Yappari Steak – Black Angus beef grilled on lava stones from Mount Fuji in Okinawa, Japan. Nanyang – Singaporean staples like laksa and kaya toast.
Eat Pizza – Giant K-style pizza slices made for photos.
Kenangan Coffee & Zus Coffee – Bold brews from Indonesia and Malaysia.
BEBANG’s Halo-Halo – Fifteen playful takes on the Filipino classic.
And that’s not the full spread—you’ll also find crowd-pleasers like Sumo Niku, Pancake House, Mesa, French Baker, Super Bowl of China, Yummy Mala Pot, Yococo, Coco Fresh, Smashing Lemon, NYFD Fries, Gang Gang Chicken, and more. Basically, it’s your foodie passport without ever leaving Pasig City.
For the Gamers: Chill + Play at the Game Park
If your squad is equal parts foodie and gamer, the East Wing Foodcourt + Game Park is your sweet spot. After fiery Thai plates from Thaiwadee, ramen bowls from Buchiton, or K-cravings from Seoul Yummy, head to the Game Park to unwind with billiards, darts, or karaoke. It’s the ultimate fusion of dining and play—a barkada bonding formula that works every time.
And yes, other Food court staples also join the party: Sizzling Plate, Dingers, TEXMEX, Hey Fried Rice, Lechon Belly Kitchen, Potato Corner, Kohi Manju, Barcada and more.
Why It’s the Spot for Every Squad
Here’s the thing: the East Wing isn’t just about food—it’s about making memories across passions. Coffee runs, mural selfies, barkada hotpot nights, or game-time showdowns—it’s the kind of place that adapts to your vibe. And with EYO around to brighten every visit, the East Wing becomes the go-to hub for every squad in the East.
Ready to Hangout Here? Snap your mural selfies, discover your next foodie obsession, hit your game streak, and let EYO show you the brighter side of the East.
SM City East Ortigas – East WingFollow along: #HangoutHereAtSMEast | #HangoutWithEYO
To better serve Filipinos, GCash pushes for digital transformation advancements in Manila Tech Summit 2025
Government agencies and private sector leaders, including the Philippines’ leading finance super app GCash, strengthened their position in advancing digital transformation in the financial sector during the 2025 Manila Tech Summit.
With the theme “Forging a New Global Order: Risks and Opportunities Redefined,” the Manila Tech Summit gathered global and local leaders to explore how technology can reshape economies into digitally inclusive societies and to discuss the opportunities and risks of an increasingly digital world. Within this platform, GCash presented how its comprehensive suite of services — including payments, savings, insurance, and lending — is redefining access to finance for millions of Filipinos.
The event was honored by the presence of president Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who delivered the keynote address. He reported that the country’s digital sector grew to P2.25 trillion last year and generated 11.3 million jobs, signifying its vital role as a key driver of economic growth. “Now this is a good development, but there is much room for growth. We see the greater need to tap the endless possibilities of a truly digital Philippines,” he said.
To further advance digitalization, the President said they are building more internet infrastructure and free WiFi sites across the country. He stressed that advancing the country’s digital capabilities is crucial for driving inclusive growth.
GCash champions financial inclusion for all
GCash, at its core, champions financial inclusion by providing accessible, responsive, and innovative digital financial solutions that empower every Filipino to participate in the digital economy. Oscar Enrico “Ren-Ren” Reyes, Jr., president and CEO of G-Xchange, Inc., shared this during his remarks at the summit.
The GCash official said that the widespread adoption of digital finance is helping uplift unbanked communities, empower MSMEs, improve tax collection, and strengthen public trust. He stressed that GCash is at the forefront of building “digital rails” that are safe and secure, enabling inclusive access to financial services.
“At GCash, we believe innovation only matters when it reaches the many, not the few, because nation-building is inclusive. We are not just in the business of finance. We are in the business of building hope,” Reyes added. d
GCash as an all-in-one platform
Having a GCash account is only the first step. True financial inclusion means having access to tools that not only make everyday transactions easier but also help users plan for emergencies and prepare for a brighter future. This was the message shared by WinsleyBangit, group head for new businesses at Mynt (the holding company of GCash), during a recent panel discussion.
The discussion explored how a full ecosystem of self-service kiosks, banks, grassroots fintech players, and policy innovations is empowering every Filipino with access to essential financial services from bill payments and savings to investments, regardless of location or income level.
“Finance for all has always been at the core of GCash. We provide the convenience and the benefit of digital payments and services,” said Bangit. At its foundation, GCash helps Filipinos thrive in their everyday lives with seamless money transfers, bill payments, and self-service tools. It also offers accessible savings and insurance options, helping users stay ready for life’s uncertainties. And when it comes to reaching long-term financial goals, users can take advantage of our investment offerings too, like GFunds, GStocks, and GBonds—empowering them to prepare for that one special day.
Accessible and fair lending powered by tech
To truly empower consumers and small businesses alike, GCash, through its lending arm Fuse Financing Inc., provides accessible and responsible digital lending solutions that enable users to manage cash flow, cover essential expenses, and seize growth opportunities. With 57% of Filipino adult borrowers still relying on informal credit such as 5-6 schemes or other predatory lending sources where interest rates can go as high as 20%, Fuse is leveraging technology and AI to expand credit access and promote fair and dignified lending, especially to the unbanked and underserved.
“In the end, what it unlocks is financial inclusion. It enables customers who previously did not have access to formal lending because they don’t have bank statements,” he stressed.
In fact, Fuse Financing Inc. president and CEO Tony Isidro highlighted its in-house trust scoring system, GScore. Isidro said they can provide financing to borrowers without traditional credit histories by using alternative data, such as in-app transaction behavior.
Isidro also shared one of its flagship products, GLoanSakto, a sachet-type loan, where eligible borrowers can borrow as low as Php 100 and repayable in 14 days, just enough to bridge them to the next payday. This product serves users who are commonly tagged as ‘high risk’ by traditional lenders and have no other access to formal credit.
“At GCash, we believe that doing good is good business — that’s why we make affordable loans accessible, so more Filipinos can build better lives while fueling inclusive growth,” Isidro said.
User safety above all
As the country’s leading finance super app, GCash places the highest priority on protecting its users by leveraging safe and reliable technology.
GCash chief information security officer Miguel Geronilla discussed how they deploy the latest technology to ensure the cybersecurity of its users, in addition to collaborating with other institutions to fortify their expertise. “Beyond security, it’s about trust and transparency. At GCash, we make sure our customers know what to do and how to take action if fraud ever happens,” he added.
With millions of Filipinos relying on its platform for daily financial transactions, GCash continuously invests in advanced security measures to safeguard customer data and maintain trust.”
Through its participation in the Manila Tech Summit, GCash reaffirmed its role not only as the country’s leading finance super app but also as a trusted partner in nation-building in keeping a cybersecure Philippines. By championing financial inclusion, empowering small businesses, providing accessible lending, and prioritizing user safety, GCash continues to redefine how technology can drive progress for all.
Zarex Celis of Sta. Elena Elementary School emerged as the winner of the SM Super Spelling Bee elimination round in SM City Marikina. He will represent his school and the mall in the grand finals at SM Mall of Asia.
The air was buzzing with excitement last September 6, 2025, as SM City Marikina’s hallway at the Ground Level near Ace Hardware transformed into a live stage for word wizards. More than 180 students from both public and private schools in Marikina gathered for the SM Super Spelling Bee Elimination Round, showcasing not just their spelling skills but also their confidence and love for learning.
Zarex Celis of Sta. Elena Elementary School orally spells out the word “euphonious” during the SM Super Spelling Bee elims at SM City Marikina.
Open to Grades 5 and 6 students aged 10 to 12 years old, the competition brought together young learners eager to put their knowledge to the test in front of an enthusiastic crowd of parents, teachers, and mallgoers. After several intense rounds, one young speller stood out among the rest—Zarex Celis of Sta. Elena Elementary School, who emerged as the champion of SM City Marikina’s leg of the competition.
Now on its second year, the SM Super Spelling Bee has grown even bigger with 40 participating SM Supermalls nationwide, serving as a platform where classroom champs and young word enthusiasts can shine and celebrate the joy of words. This year’s edition is made even more meaningful as it coincides with SM Supermalls’ 40th anniversary, a milestone that underscores its commitment to creating spaces where families can shop, dine, learn, and connect through meaningful experiences.
More than 180 students from Marikina City battled it out as the best speller during the SM Super Spelling Bee at SM City Marikina.
The event was made possible through the support of National Book Store, National University, Power Mac Center, and Jollibee—partners who share in SM’s mission to nurture learning, creativity, and confidence among the youth.
The written spelling round at the SM City Marikina leg of the SM Super Spelling Bee
Congratulations once again to Zarex Celis for this well-deserved win! We wish you the best of luck as you advance to the next round of the SM Super Spelling Bee.
EastWest joined the Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) 2025 as a major sponsor, backing the growth of tourism through accessible financing, digital tools, and collaborations across the industry. Speaking at the opening ceremony, EastWest CEO Jerry Ngo addressed industry stakeholders with a powerful call to reimagine tourism not just as a destination economy, but as a platform for identity, livelihood, and national pride.
As EastWest CEO Ngo puts it, “Filipino hospitality is never transactional; it is deeply personal. Tourism is not just an industry for us. It is an ecosystem–one we want to nurture from the ground up through partnerships and collaborations.”
EastWest took part in the opening of the 36th Philippine Travel Mart, standing alongside leaders in advancing travel opportunities and empowering communities through finance, digital solutions, and partnerships.
A Booth That Travels With You
At PTM 2025, EastWest’s dedicated booth offers a gateway to rewarding travel experiences. Visitors can: Apply for EastWest credit cards on-site Inquire about Personal Loans, Priority Banking, and Travel Insurance products Explore exclusive installment promos at select travel merchants EastWest Early Entrance: Because Travel Should Start Easy As a special treat, EastWest credit cardholders enjoyed early 9:00-10:00AM access to the exhibit-beating the crowds and grabbing the best deals before general public entry. This benefit is part of the Bank’s broader mission to deliver ease, personalization, and access through its “EasyWay to Bank” platform, enabling smarter travel, better financing options, and seamless digital experiences.
Banking That Goes Further
From travel-ready credit cards and installment options to NFC payments, real-time rewards, and access to airport lounges, EastWest continues to build a travel ecosystem that’s not only convenient-but empowering. Its parent company, Filinvest, complements this mission through sustainable tourism investments in hospitality, F&B innovation, and eco-conscious infrastructure development.
Partnering for Progress
“Tourism thrives when government, LGUs, communities, transport, technology, and yes, banks come together,” Ngo noted. “If we nurture it, if we empower it with the right financial tools, the right partnerships, and the right spirit, then tourism will not just grow – it will transform lives.” By sponsoring PTM 2025, EastWest not only supports tourism promotion, it actively contributes to tourism empowerment through financial tools, digital channels, and community development. “At EastWest, we help power transformations,” said Ngo.
Get ready, East Metro shoppers—SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo are bringing you the Super September Sale this September 19, 20, and 21, 2025!
Enjoy up to 50% off on select items from your favorite mall tenants. Whether you’re starting your Christmas shopping early, upgrading your home, or simply treating yourself, this is the sale you’ve been waiting for.
Early Christmas Shopping Made Easy
Skip the holiday rush and fill your gift bags ahead of time! From trendy sneakers for teens, fun toys for kids, stylish bags and accessories for friends, to kitchenware and home décor for family gatherings—you’ll find it all at amazing discounts.
Beauty & Tech Steals
Stock up on beauty must-haves like skincare, perfumes, and cosmetics, or snag the latest gadgets and accessories without overspending. Shopping smart has never been this rewarding!
Shop Smart, Save Big
With huge markdowns across fashion, lifestyle, and home essentials, the Super September Sale is your chance to shop more and spend less. Mark your calendars and head to SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo for three days of unbeatable deals.
Security Bank opens its 359th branch in Antipolo – Cogeo (L-R): Harold De Leon, FVP and Region 2 Head; Commander Herald Medrano, Antipolo City Police; Bon Mark Dapat, Vice President of Sun Valley Golf and Development, Inc.; Atty. Cedric Capiral, City Legal Officer of Antipolo; Andeng Ynares, City of City Mayor; Edelin Ganir, Records Officer of Malacañang Palace; Leslie Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head; Mai Aguiting, VP and Area Head; Michael Angelo Azurin, Business Manager – OIC of Antipolo-Cogeo Branch; Ronald Austria, SVP and Branch Banking Luzon Distribution Head
Makati, Philippines – Security Bank opened a new branch in Antipolo – Cogeo, strengthening its presence in Rizal and bringing BetterBanking closer to residents and local enterprises. The location is the Bank’s 359th branch nationwide.
“Our newest branch is strategically located here in Cogeo, Antipolo—a growing hub where commerce, community, and connectivity converge. It’s the perfect place to deliver our enhanced banking services even closer to you. Antipolo-Cogeo Branch embodies a modern, client-centric environment. It’s designed to make banking more intuitive, efficient, and welcoming.” says Leslie Y. Cham, EVP and Branch Banking Group Head at Security Bank.
Antipolo City, known as the “Pilgrimage Capital of the Philippines,” continues to grow as a hub of residential communities, thriving businesses, and local commerce. Security Bank’s expansion into Cogeo supports this growth by making banking more accessible to the area’s residents and entrepreneurs, in line with the Bank’s mission to deliver customer-focused, tech-enabled financial solutions where they can create the most impact.
Security Bank Antipolo – Cogeo Branch is open from Mondays to Fridays, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.
For more information on Security Bank’s latest offerings and locations, visit www.securitybank.com or connect with Security Bank on social media.
Students in Bulacan took on the challenge and demonstrated their spelling proficiency in the recent Super Spelling Bee at SM City Marilao.
The word war continues as 124 young spellers from different parts of Bulacan participated in the highly anticipated SM Super Spelling Bee at SM City Marilao.
After a successful debut last year, the SM Super Spelling Bee is making its much-awaited return, inviting young spelling champs from across the country to take the stage, test their skills, and revitalize their love for spelling.
At SM City Marilao, participants aged 10 to 12 from both public and private schools across Bulacan exhibited competency and sportsmanship through a live spelling showdown. Representing MAYI Montessori School, Christoff Rei A. Delos Reyes from Plaridel, Bulacan, was declared elimination round champion.
Christoff Rei A. Delos Reyes from MAYI Montessori School was declared elimination round champion at the Super Spelling Bee competition held in SM City Marilao.
Delos Reyes received Php 10,000 worth of SM Gift Certificates from SM Supermalls and another Php 10,000 worth of Gift Cards from National Book Store. Moreover, Delos Reyes advances to the Grand Finals at SM Mall of Asia, where he stands a chance to win up to Php 50,000 in cash and SM Gift Certificates, Php 150,000 worth of National Bookstore gift cards, Php 20,000 in Jollibee gift certificates, a brand-new laptop from Power Mac Center, and tuition discounts from National University (NU).
This year’s edition is extra special as SM Supermalls celebrates its 40th year, a milestone that reflects its continued growth and dedication to creating spaces where families can learn, connect, and enjoy meaningful experiences. In today’s era, SM Supermalls continues to evolve with you, making every visit more than just a trip to the mall.
The excitement doesn’t stop as SM City Baliwag is hosting another Super Spelling Bee elimination round on September 13, with a period of application ongoing until September 12. Visit www.smsupermalls.com/superspellingbee for more details, or download the SM Malls Online app to register: https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/8vg2yplz.
There are countless ways we can thank our grandparents for loving us unconditionally. One way is through thoughtful gestures such as spoiling them with sweet treats from SM City Marilao.
Here are some of the premium sweet selections you can bring as gifts for Grandparents’ Day. Take a look at which among these treats your lolo and lola would love.
BEBANG HALO-HALO
Grandma and Grandpa would definitely love a blissful serving of Bebang Halo-Halo. Currently trending as one of the most innovative halo-halo in the market today, Bebang Halo Halo is crafted with premium milk, frozen and finely shaven to creamy perfection. Made with the exceptional ingredients, they offer exclusive variants inspired by classic and modern twists. Bestsellers include the overloaded Presidential, the timeless Mango Graham Caramel, and the minimalist yet flavorful So Corny!
SARAH’S BAKEHOUSE
Head over to Sarah’s Bakehouse and grab the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth burnt cheesecake for lolo and lola. Additionally, the caramelized, smooth, gooey velvet center of this awesome dessert will bring them joy. Double the happiness with a creamy egg pie and other heavenly pastries for a perfect Grandparents’ Day celebration.
CONTI’S
Express your love with masterfully crafted cakes from Conti’s. Create lasting memories with your grandparents through celebration cakes such as the iconic Mango Bravo, Almond Choco Sans Rival, and Black Velvet Cake, among others.
CARAMIA CAKES & GELATO
Occasionally, grandparents deserve to indulge in Caramia’s all-time favorite frozen treat—gelato. Impress them with premium gelato flavors such as pistachio, chocolate therapy, cookies & cream, mango cream pie, Maltesers, and peach mango caramel.
This Grandparents’ Day, let your love be felt with sweet little treats from SM City Marilao. For other gift ideas, activities, and events dedicated to grandma and grandpa, follow https://www.facebook.com/SMCityMarilao on social media.
On Grandparents’ Day, we honor our lolos and lolas who stood by our side through thick and thin, a source of wisdom, and everything in between. As such, no matter how busy life gets, it’s important to make them feel valued—one way is allotting time to treat them to a fancy date during this special occasion.
Here are some of the exciting ways to celebrate the best lolos and lolas of our lives only at SM:
Feast and Memories
Celebrate Grandparents’ Day over a sumptuous meal at SM Camanava malls. Impress grandpa and grandma with the finest menu at Giligan’s in SM Center Sangandaan. Meanwhile, if they prefer authentic Chinese cuisine, Mandarin Sky Seafood Restaurant at SM City Grand Central is the place to visit. Lastly, consider dropping by Kuya J at SM City Valenzuela for distinct Filipino recipes your grandparents would love.
Love Expressed through Photos
Nothing says fun like a disco-inspired photo spot where lolos, lolas, and apos can strike their best poses. With 80s retro vibes and a hint of modern flair, this is the perfect chance to glam up, groove out, and create memories that last a lifetime. Don’t forget to strike your grooviest pose and tag SM!
A Good Day to Bond and Support Local
Stroll through a colorful cluster of stalls showcasing homemade goodies and treats crafted by grannies and their apos. It’s a celebration of love made edible, from traditional family recipes to modern twists on local favorites. Bring your appetite and support MSMEs run by families!
Sweet Soiree
Occasionally, grandparents deserve to indulge in some sweet cravings. Head over to Vizco’s Cake Shop and treat them to premium strawberry shortcakes and more at SM City Grand Central. You may also grab Adda’s ultimate confectionaries at SM City Valenzuela. If they are into baked goodies, Mat’s Donut at SM Center Sangandaan is the sweetest way to end the day.
Brew Connections
Memories are best created over a good cup of coffee. Bring grandma and grandpa to the best brew destinations there are in Camanava, such as SM City Grand Central’s WouldULike specialty coffee. Pickup Coffee, on the other hand, is conveniently available at SM Center Sangandaan, while ZUS Coffee at SM City Valenzuela is the perfect hangout spot for some cozy vibes and great conversations with lolo and lola.
Make the most of Grandparents’ Day celebration at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela. For other gift ideas, activities, and events dedicated to grandma and grandpa, follow SM Camanava malls’ official social media pages.
