Drum rolls, please–because your every craving just won!
The votes are in, the winners are clear, and honestly, it’s all hands down, no competition. These are the dishes that carried, stole the show, and left no crumbs, giving bites worth every bit of applause.
So whatever it is you’re up for, know that there’s a grand-winning craving just waiting for you in the Metro at SM Supermalls, where more spots are coming in with more exciting experiences and award-worthy eats that’s All For You.
Most Iconic Meal Award
And the main plates that stole the show go to the ones that came in strong, who delivered unforgettable flavors with an impact you can never forget. No words left to say other than these eats definitely understood the assignment.
Azela by Balay Dako
The best Pinoy heritage award goes to the soon to open Azalea by Balay Dako at the The Block, Level 2 of SM North EDSA with its beloved traditional staples like Kare-Kare and Kansi!
Jiang Nan Hotpot
Offering unlimited premium meats and seafood with next-level dipping sauces, the all out eats award goes to the soon to open Jiang Nan Hotpot at the Upper Ground Level of SM Southmall.
Top-Tier Sips Award
This award goes to the sips that always hit every single time! Taking the stage is Candid Coffee at the City Center, Upper Ground Level of SM North EDSA–soon to serve a lineup of crafted drinks like its creamy Toasted Horchata that balances bold flavors with an easy, everyday kind of comfort.
Let your cravings win and grab a bite from these worth the hype picks. Each one a standout and worth coming back for, bringing together flavors that truly deserve the spotlight only here at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls–All For You.
Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit http://www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.
Successful hired-on-the-spot (HOTS) applicants proudly pose after securing jobs at the SM Job Fair, highlighting how SM Supermalls continues to create real, immediate employment opportunities for Filipinos nationwide.
As Filipinos continue to navigate a challenging job landscape, the search for meaningful and stable work remains a daily reality for many. Across all most-loved SM Supermalls nationwide, job fairs are held year-round—continuously providing accessible employment opportunities within local communities.
This Labor Day season, the initiative takes on greater significance. In observance of Araw ng Manggagawa on May 1, SM Supermalls brings together jobs, skills development, and essential support systems at scale—highlighting the vital role of employment in nation-building and reinforcing its commitment to helping Filipinos move forward.
Across SM malls nationwide, jobseekers—from fresh graduates to career shifters—are given the opportunity to take the next step toward a better future. More than a hiring event, SM Job Fairs have evolved into a full career ecosystem—connecting talent with employers while also enabling access to government services and upskilling opportunities that help individuals stay job-ready in a rapidly changing workforce.
Massive crowd of job seekers during Labor Day Job Fairs at SM City Bacolod (left photo) and SM Mall of Asia (right photo).
A Job Fair that Works
For many Filipinos, especially first-time jobseekers and breadwinners, SM Job Fairs offer more than convenience—they deliver real outcomes. “Makakatulong yung ganitong pa-event sa mga pamilya,” shared Joshua Bulauitan, hired on the spot as a Sales Clerk. “Kung wala kang trabaho at nagigipit ka na, pumunta ka lang dito—may instant trabaho ka.”This reflects SM’s strong hiring demand, translating into real jobs—not just applications.
Employers meet job-ready talent, faster
Employers likewise cited the effectiveness of SM Job Fairs in reaching the right candidates efficiently.
“Sumali po kami dito because we are looking to hire more employees,” said Lyka Sababan of SM Appliance Center. “Alam po namin na maraming jobseekers ang pumupunta dito, and effective po talaga ang job fairs para sa mga companies na naghahanap ng new employees.”
One-Stop Job Application Made Easy
What sets SM Job Fairs apart is its ability to bring everything together in one place. From job applications and interviews to government requirements such as SSS, PhilHealth, and other employment documentation, the process becomes faster, easier, and more accessible for every jobseeker.
“Malaki ang tulong ng SM Supermalls sa PESO at DOLE,” said Jon Tito, Group Leader of QC PESO. “Kinakalat nila ang opportunities para sa mga naghahanap ng trabaho.”“Pinapadali ng ganitong job fairs ang mga oportunidad para sa jobseekers, may hired on the spot ka na at nandito na rin ang mga government agencies para sa requirements.” explained Adolf Hernandez of PhilHealth QC.”
Beyond employment, SM is also strengthening its role in workforce development by introducing upskilling opportunities—including digital and AI learning sessions in partnership with institutions such as Asia Pacific College. These initiatives aim to equip Filipinos with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in today’s evolving job market. Because today, it’s not just about finding a job—it’s about being ready for what comes next.
More Opportunities This April
In the lead-up to Labor Day, SM Supermalls continues its nationwide job fair rollout, providing more opportunities for jobseekers to begin their employment journey:
April 15 – SM City Davao
April 16 – SM City Marikina
April 24 – SM City Novaliches
April 25 – SM City Fairview
April 30 – SM City Trece Martires
These runs ensure that opportunities remain accessible ahead of the Labor Day peak—allowing more Filipinos to connect with employers, apply, and get hired.
The Main Event: May 1 Labor Day Job Fairs
On May 1, SM Job Fairs will be mounted across key locations nationwide, bringing together employers, jobseekers, and partners in one high-impact day of hiring:
SMX Convention Center
SM City Grand Central
SM City Caloocan
SM City Marikina
SM City East Ortigas
SM City Baguio
SM City Laoag
SM City Tuguegarao
SM City Cabanatuan
SM City Marilao
SM City Pampanga
SM City Olongapo Central
SM City Taytay
SM City Bacolod
SM CDO Downtown Premier
SM City Davao
*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice. For the latest updates, visit www.smsupermalls.com/jobfair, scan the official Job Fair QR code, or follow SM Supermalls on social media for updates.
Jobseekers are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resumes and valid IDs, and visit their nearest SM mall for a chance to be hired on the spot.
Building Futures, Strengthening Communities
Through strong collaboration with government agencies, employers, and institutional partners, SM Job Fairs continue to demonstrate how accessible platforms can create real impact—helping individuals move forward while contributing to broader economic recovery and workforce development.
At its core, the initiative reflects SM Supermalls’ commitment to nation-building—connecting Filipinos to opportunities, equipping them with the skills to succeed, and strengthening communities across the country.Because at SM, it’s not just about bringing people together—it’s about helping them move forward.
Participants of Happy Walk 2026 at SMX Convention Center – Manila come together in a joyful display of unity and support for individuals with Down syndrome, reinforcing the message that inclusion thrives when communities walk forward as one.
Happy Walk 2026 broke records as the largest gathering of allies for the Down Syndrome community in Asia with 10,500 advocates gathering all over the country as the strongest show of solidarity and empowerment to date.
Led by SM Cares and the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines Inc., the celebration was held simultaneously on March 29 in SMX Manila, SM City Bacolod, and SM City Cebu. This year’s Happy Walk showed that the strength of the movement is not only found in size, but in SM’s commitment to create spaces where people with Down syndrome are seen, celebrated, and encouraged to thrive.
Big change through continued, united steps
Since the very first Happy Walk in 2003, the event serves as a joyful gathering for the Down syndrome community and its supporters. This year’s program highlighted self-expression, talent, and community participation through activities such as the Happy Walk parade, stage performances, activity booths, and DS Got Talent. All milestones were designed to promote the talents and abilities of individuals with Down syndrome, foster inclusion and awareness, and provide a platform for self-expression beyond familiar stereotypes.
Smiles and shared moments define Happy Walk 2026, where individuals with Down syndrome are seen, celebrated, and empowered in a space built on dignity and belonging.Members of the Down syndrome community present a token of appreciation to Mr. Hans Sy, symbolizing partnership and support for inclusive communities.
It also reinforced a message that remains at the heart of the advocacy: that inclusion is not a one-day effort, but a continuing commitment to creating environments where every individual is embraced, empowered, and supported.
Through SM Cares, SM Supermalls remains committed to opening spaces for this advocacy year after year—helping build communities where dignity, opportunity, and belonging are not the exception, but the norm. SM’s deeper drive for inclusivity stems from its pursuit of becoming a true Mall for All—standing as the most-loved mall for its customers no matter what their needs may be.
Exceeding expectations
This year’s theme, “321 & Beyond – Raising Aspirations, Inclusion, Support & Empowerment for People with Down Syndrome,” centered on advancing opportunities as well as recognizing the potential and abilities of the Down Syndrome community.
Happy Walk 2026 brings the advocacy for inclusion to SM City Cebu, as families and supporters unite to celebrate the strengths and potential of individuals with Down syndrome.Happy Walk 2026 at SM City Bacolod highlights the power of shared commitment, reminding communities that inclusion is built one meaningful step at a time.
The celebration focused on four action-points: raising aspirations, inclusion, support, and empowerment. The importance of helping individuals with Down syndrome dream bigger, participate more fully in schools, workplaces, and communities, access the support they need, and find platforms where their voices and talents can be recognized.
Not everything goes according to script, but honestly, that’s where the best parts can happen.
It’s all twist after twist, one minute you’re in a regular run, the next you’ve stumbled on something you didn’t expect, and suddenly it’s the highlight of your day. The kind you didn’t plan for, but made the detour oh-so-worth-it.
So if you’re up for a little scene switch, there’s always something waiting to surprise you at SM Supermalls in Visayas, where new and upcoming spots bring unexpected finds, exciting firsts, and moments that are all for you.
A Sudden Drip Addition
Just when everything’s right on track, a new name enters the mix to change the scene. Here comes the first-ever Salomon in Cebu, now open at the 2nd Level of SM J Mall–bringing in performance-driven design that moves seamlessly between function and everyday wear, adding a fresh, unexpected edge to your usual lineup.
A Tasty Surprise
Right when you think you’ve seen it all, something new slips in and changes the lineup. Mesa will soon return to Bacolod at the newly built block of SM City Bacolod–bringing its signature take on Filipino favorites with its crisp and flavorful Crispy Pork Belly or its fresh, savory Tinapa Roll.
This is your cue to go off script and explore, because the best things usually show themselves when you didn’t make plans to find it. Discover more firsts and experiences only here at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls–All For You.
Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit http://www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.
Participants from SM Supermalls, the Bureau of Fire Protection, partner agencies, and community volunteers come together for the Fire Prevention Month activities, reinforcing a shared commitment to safety, preparedness, and building disaster-resilient communities.
MANILA, Philippines, April 06, 2026 – Reaffirming its commitment to public safety and community resilience, SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), led a series of impactful, nationwide initiatives in celebration of Fire Prevention Month, empowering Filipinos with life-saving knowledge, preparedness skills, and a shared responsibility for fire safety across its network of most-loved malls.
Mounted through SM Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill engaged almost 30,000 participants composed of SM employees, tenant employees, security and janitorial personnel, students, mall goers, and residents of barangays near SM malls which was a 30% increase in participants versus the previous year. With the theme ‘Sa pag-iwas sa sunog hindi ka nag-iisa, kababaihan kasama mo!’, the drill strengthened coordination in emergency response, especially helping communities practice life-saving evacuation procedures. In addition, the Fire Square Road Show brought interactive fire safety education to the public across 16 participating SM malls, reaching 8,611 participants through demonstrations, equipment showcases, and hands-on safety activities designed for families, students, and community members.
A large-scale Fire Prevention Month illumination at the SM Mall of Asia Globe featured a dramatic “Venus Symbol Formation” created by 263 fire trucks and emergency vehicles, with 2,827 participants, honoring firefighters and raising awareness about fire safety and emergency preparedness.
The search for the Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines (TOFF) 2026 was formally launched with officers of SM, BFP and DILG headed by Usec. Rolando C. Puno as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS). TOFF is on its 3rd solid year of recognizing Filipino firefighters for their exemplary service in fire safety and protection, emergency response, community education, and resilience-building initiatives. This highlights the partnership between SM Prime and BFP for a safer, more resilient Philippines.
Career, hobbies, social life, relationships—with so many things vying for our attention, sometimes it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters: living in the moment and finding joy in the mundane.
Now, picture this: a Saturday afternoon stroll, slow weekends, a cup of tea in hand. Honestly, when’s the last time you allowed yourself to pause for a while and breathe in times like these? To idealize each and every waking moment, making them seem grander than they are—have you ever wondered what it’s like to fall in love with life again?
Well, wander no more, because here at your most-loved SM Supermalls, we’ll show you what it’s like to live with intention and make your happiness the central plot of your own story. From fresh new eats to new finds and experiences to discover, SM City Zamboanga is here to help you imagine what it’s like to experience the best from your point of view.
Moments Become Worth Savoring
All of a sudden, the food tastes better. You get to enjoy each meal as if you’re savoring it for the first time—each soft bite, each aromatic note—details you previously didn’t notice now bring a smile to your face with every spoonful.
JCO Reserve Located at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, a sweeter kind of pause in your day awaits. Here at the first-in-Mindanao JCO Reserve, coffee and treats feel elevated into little rituals—smooth sips and soft bites that make everything feel just a bit more special than usual.
BOTEJYU Featuring the first-in-Zamboanga Botejyu, a true celebration of Japanese comfort food unfolds at the Lower Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, where every dish feels warm, familiar, and deeply satisfying. From hearty okonomiyaki to freshly cooked noodles, rice bowls, and sizzling teppan-style favorites, it’s a table filled with flavors meant to be savored and remembered.
The Matcha Tokyo Located on the Third Level of the mall, The Matcha Tokyo arrives in Zamboanga for the first time ever to serve the authentic, high-quality Japanese matcha it’s famous for, offering a variety of premium desserts crafted for those who truly savor the flavor.
Brique Modern Kitchen With a menu centered on well-crafted dishes, BRIQUE, opening soon at the upper ground level, brings its dining concept to Zamboanga for the first time in a stylish, comforting setting where good food and atmosphere turn simple meals into memorable experiences.Ch
Suddenly, Life’s More Fun
In a heartbeat, life feels more exciting. You are filled with the rush of adventure, ready to set your life into motion and indulge yourself in life’s small surprises.
FantasyWorld Fun, you say? Located on the Third Level of the mall, Fantasy World brings a playful escape to Zamboanga for the first time. Step into a space bursting with color and imagination, where every visit turns into a mini adventure full of memories worth returning for.
Gashapon Bandai Finally, here on the Third Level, the first-in-Zamboanga Gashapon Bandai brings the thrill of capsule toy surprises straight from Japan. With every turn, you get a chance at collectible figures and quirky finds—perfect for those spontaneous, joy-filled moments.
Settle in Your Own Kind of Comfort
Finally, you get to understand what it’s like to put yourself first. To make your world revolve around what brings you comfort. To declutter, feel refreshed, and find happiness in whatever life blows in your direction.
Step into a world where innovation meets elegance at the first-ever Dyson in Zamboanga at the Upper Ground Level. Touch, test, and fall in love with their sleek technology—from vacuums to hair care tools and air purifiers—that makes everyday life effortless and beautiful.
Here at SM Supermalls, we understand what matters to you. To the tune of the famous French song La Vie En Rose, sometimes you just have to see the world through rose-colored glasses—through the POV of love and your own happiness. Romanticize your life! See what it’s like to experience the world from your own point of view, all for you. Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.
An hour for Earth. SM Supermalls switches off non-essential lights in solidarity with Earth Hour, uniting communities in a shared commitment to climate action and a more sustainable future.
SM Supermalls has once again led a meaningful local observance of the global Earth Hour. Through a symbolic lights-off practice held at all SM Malls has re-affirmed its strong commitment toward shared responsibility, environmental awareness, and community action across all of its most-loved malls.
From 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM, all SM malls nationwide switched off non-essential lights as mallgoers, tenants, and communities came together to take part in activities that made sustainability more visible, more relatable, and more personal. Through SM Cares, Earth Hour became more than a scheduled observance in the evening—it became a reminder that small choices, when done together through empowered communities, can help build a better future.
SM City Fairview joins local leaders and community partners in observing Earth Hour 2026, affirming a shared commitment to climate action.
A live acoustic set at SM CDO Downtown Premier marks Earth Hour 2026, using music to bring communities together during the symbolic lights-off hour.
Across SM’s most-loved malls, visitors were also treated to glow-in-the-dark activities, sustainability-themed installations, tenant eco-promotions, youth and community engagement efforts, and social media storytelling activations that encouraged and empowered everyone to think more deeply about energy conservation and the role each person can play in caring for the environment. These efforts reflected SM’s continuing commitment to making sustainability not only informative, but also engaging and community-driven.
SM Supermalls continues to use its spaces to make environmental action easy and accessible all for Filipinos. Earth Hour at SM was not simply about switching off lights—it amplified the need to sustain conversations on climate action and the need for continued, everyday acts that preserve and protect the environment.
Young kids showcase Earth-themed artworks at the Book Nook in SM North EDSA, highlighting the importance of engaging young minds in environmental awareness.
Runners kick off the Earth Hour Run 2026 at SM City Sto. Tomas, uniting fitness and sustainability in one shared movement.
The SM City San Mateo community marks Earth Hour 2026 with a bike activity that promotes eco‑friendly mobility and collective action for a greener future.
Participants at SM City Baliwag celebrates Earth Hour 2026 by turning movement into momentum for the planet.
This year’s Earth Hour participation also carried record environmental value. 6,079 kwh in energy savings resulted from the one-hour lights-off initiative across malls nationwide. This is equivalent to over 10,400 miles or 16,737 km driven by an average gasoline-powered passenger vehicle or 9.5 barrels of oil consumed.
“Earth Hour reminds us that even the simplest actions, when done together, can create meaningful impact. Here at SM, we continue to open spaces where communities can learn, participate, and take part in protecting the environment—always all for you, and all for the planet,” said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing, Joaquin San Agustin.
For SM Supermalls, Earth Hour is one of many ways it continues to encourage greener lifestyles for present and future generations. By turning mall spaces into venues for awareness, participation, and action, SM helps communities see that sustainability is not distant or complicated—it can begin with one hour, one decision, and one shared commitment to care for the planet.
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About SM Supermalls
SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.
As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.
About SM Cares
As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.
IYKYK: Documenting your daily life is a kind of magic in itself. Whether it’s capturing short clips of small moments at a coffee shop or going full production with your food dump at one of your newly discovered restos, being your own content creator is an adventure you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
Another day, another vlog. Who would have thought that saving memories of your seemingly ordinary day-to-day life could make your everyday routine feel more fun and exciting?
Hey, hey, hey, it’s your favorite mall here! Welcome to a day in the life with your most-loved SM Supermalls. Come spend a day walking through all the best new discoveries here in Luzon, chosen All For You!
9:30 AM: Morning Treats & Cozy Vibes
Start your day right with an early morning drift. Sip on your favorite coffee, nibble on freshly made desserts, and soak in all the Instagrammable corners of these content-worthy hangout spots.
Start your day on a sweet note with the first J.CO Reserve in Bulacan at SM City Marilao, now open at the Lower Ground Level. Known for its elevated café concept, J.CO Reserve serves up its famously made donuts, paired with rich coffee blends in a sit-down setting that is perfect for easing into your day or catching up over a well-deserved break.
12:20 PM: Late Lunch Fixes It’s right at that moment when hunger hits—time to eat! What’s the craving, fam? Chinese food? Japanese BBQ? From huge feasts to comforting bites, it’s never too late to fuel your midday adventures and make your feed as satisfying as your pleased appetite.
Yakiniku Like Craving a solo-style feast? Head over to the first Yakiniku Like in Cavite at SM City Bacoor, and take control of your own grill at their fast-casual Japanese yakiniku concept that lets you enjoy solo. Complete with customizable meat sets, individual grills, and quick service, this resto is certainly a great match for that sponty food stop in between errands.
Wangfu Get your well-deserved fill at Wangfu, now open at SM City Dasmariñas and soon arriving at SM City Bacoor. Loved for its modern take on Chinese cuisine, Wangfu offers a wide selection of dim sum, roasted meats, and hearty family-style dishes, which makes it a solid choice for a late lunch dining.
4:45 PM: Content Creator Must-Haves
This is where your influencer era goes to the next level. Lights, angles, aesthetics—capture it all. Every mall day can be turned into a scroll-stopping moment, where your creativity can have its work and play!
Insta360 Make a stop at the soon to open Insta360 store at 4th Level of Cyberzone, SM City Grand Central and explore a range of innovative 360 cameras, action cams, and creator-ready accessories built for capturing every angle. Whether you’re leveling up your vlogs, experimenting with immersive content, or upgrading your gear setup, it’s all about bringing next-level storytelling and creativity to every shot.
Blk Cosmetics Freshen up and do some retouching at Blk Cosmetics at SM City Calamba, a local beauty brand focused on uncomplicated, everyday makeup, offering a range of easy-to-use cosmetics from lip products and face tints to skincare and fragrances. Made with skin-friendly formulations for a low-effort, everyday look, Blk is designed for quick routines and on-the-go touch-ups perfect for your everyday vlog.
That’s it! Thanks for being part of a day made more memorable here at your most-loved mall. From fresh finds to unskippable foodie discoveries, SM Supermalls has truly got it all for you. So… until the next vlog, bye-bye!
Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.
Manila, Philippines —Is it still possible to go for extra rice or extra ulam and get the much-needed busog without overspending?
As Pinoys continue to look for affordable options in the midst of skyrocketing food prices, McDonald’s Philippines announces that its best-selling McSavers Sulit Busog Meals will remain affordable, with PhP99 and PhP129 “Inextrahan” options for every budget-conscious customer. Whether they go for extra rice or extra ulam, customers can still expect better value for money, offering heavier fill without straining their budget.
The “Extra Rice” option for McSavers Sulit-Busog favorites remains affordable at PhP99. With two cups of rice and a regular drink to go with the Golden Curry Fillet, Crispy Chicken Fillet a la King, or Mushroom Pepper Steak Meal, customers are sure to enjoy a satisfying, filling meal without paying extra.
The “Extra Ulam” option is equally attractive. At only PhP129, the two-piece Crispy Chicken Fillet and Mushroom Pepper Steak Meals offer great value to customers who prefer options that are “tipid, pero hindi tinipid.”
“Times are challenging for a lot of Filipino families, and consumers are now even more conscious that every peso spent has to be worth it,” said Ada Lazaro, McDonald’s Philippines Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “The ‘Inextrahan’ options in our McSavers Sulit-Busog menu are our way of assuring our customers that at McDo, we constantly keep their budget and preferences in mind.”
She added: “Whether you’re Team Kanin or Team Ulam, there’s a McSavers Sulit-Busog meal for you, offering good taste, great value, and a feel-good experience that McDonald’s customers love.”
The Inextrahan options for McSavers Sulit-Busog Meals are available via dine-in, take-out, or drive-through.
MANILA, PH – April 2026 – Sun Life Philippines took part in the Go Negosyo Women Summit 2026, reaffirming its commitment to empowering Filipina entrepreneurs through financial education, meaningful conversations, and access to practical financial tools.
The Women Summit serves as a platform to celebrate the resilience of Filipina entrepreneurs while equipping them with the knowledge, support, and networks they need to grow sustainable businesses. Through its collaboration with Go Negosyo, Sun Life Philippines supported the summit’s mission by offering on-site financial consultations and insights designed to help women entrepreneurs build lasting wealth – not just for their businesses, but for their families and future as well.
A key highlight of the event was the talk of Vange Uy-Cuaki, a multi-awarded branch manager of Sun Life Philippines, who served as a resource speaker at the summit. Her session, titled “From Kita to Pera: Turning Income into Wealth,” walked participants through an important mindset shift – one that goes beyond earning and focuses on intentional financial decision-making.
Uy-Cuaki explained the distinction between kita and pera. “Kita is the result of hard work and effort – whether it comes from a salary, a thriving business, or multiple income streams,” Uy-Cuaki explains. “Pera, on the other hand, is what that income becomes through discipline and choices, reflecting how well a person saves, plans, and grows their money. The transformation from the former to the latter is where true wealth begins.”
During her session, Uy-Cuaki shared principles to help women entrepreneurs turn income into lasting wealth:
• Live below your means, regardless of how much you earn, to create room for savings and future opportunities.
• Save and invest early, even in small amounts, to take advantage of time and compounding growth.
• Build an emergency fund to stay financially prepared for unexpected challenges. • Practice discipline and consistency, as wealth is built through everyday financial decisions not one-time wins.
Drawing from personal experience, Uy-Cuaki shared that she joined Sun Life at age 34, and at age 45, now holds multiple insurance and investment policies. This reinforces that disciplined financial planning can lead to long-term security, no matter what age you start.
She concluded her session with a powerful message that resonated deeply with the audience: “True wealth is built on discipline, heart, and faith.” For Uy-Cuaki, financial success is not just about numbers; it is about values, consistency, and purpose.
Sun Life Philippines’ participation in the Go Negosyo Women Summit reflects its broader advocacy of promoting financial literacy and empowering entrepreneurs through sound financial guidance. By collaborating with Go Negosyo, Sun Life continues to support initiatives that help Filipina entrepreneurs turn today’s hard-earned income into lasting wealth so they can live brighter lives, today and in the years to come.
To know more about Sun Life’s products and services for business owners, visit
sunlife.co/entrepfinancialplan or talk to a Sun Life Financial Advisor today.
