Street Journal, Author at Street Journal Multimedia Services

Brand Finance, AMEC, and PANA awards reinforce mall giant’s commitment to customers In its 40-year anniversary, SM Supermalls has more to celebrate with its receipt of seven key industry distinctions from three respected and influential award giving bodies. Recognizing SM’s best practices in line with its evolution into a bold new era of service to customers and surrounding communities, Brand Finance crowned the mall giant as ASEAN’s Strongest Retail Brand for 2025. Adding to this are wins from the International Association for Measurement and Evaluation of Communication (AMEC) with one silver and three gold awards, and two awards from the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA) for SM’s marketing excellence and community service. “Our customers forged us into who we are now,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “Their satisfaction influences how we operate and continue to evolve. It is because of our pursuit of shared success with our customers and partners that we’ve remained tenacious in innovating so we can meet them where they are at, satisfying not just what they need, but want and could want in the future.” Sharpened instincts, elevated service Customer centricity continues to fuel SM’s drive for evolution as it enters a new era of service. Tan emphasized anticipating and meeting the changing palate of its customer base amid a fast-evolving retail landscape through innovations led with sustainability and reinforced with diversification. “We’re relentlessly focused on satisfying modern customer considerations and buying behavior with the design of our malls, intuitively clustering tenants to maximize their exposure. Tenants such as first in market, world class local and global brands have been added to our portfolio so our customers have more variety and choice, while our evolved discipline of marketing to our customers ensure each visit to our malls enhances their experience.” It is this thrust that earned SM the title of ASEAN’s Strongest Retail Brand for 2025, awarded by Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. Across the whole country, SM Supermalls scored a hefty Brand Index Score of 95.00 out of 100. Enhanced mall traffic and customer engagement fueled by streamlined data But keeping a strong pulse on customer sentiments meets the challenge of volume and disjointed data threads. To overcome this, SM streamlined its assessment of communication data to understand customers better, meeting and satisfying shopper attentiondirectly with strategic resource funneling. Because of this, SM saw an increase in drive-to-mall intent, with one of the key highlights being increased foot traffic in Mall of Asia by 15%. This practice earned SM four distinctions from AMEC: one Silver for Best Use of Integrated Communication Measurement/Research, and four gold awards for Most Effective Planning, Research, and Evaluation – APAC; Most Effective Planning, Research, and Evaluation in Consumer Communications; and Most Impactful Use of Insights and Analytics Recommendations. SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin underscored how customer centricity is rooted in one essential priority—listening. “Apart from enhancing customer experience within our malls, closely listening to the change in their sentiments allowed us to evolve, speak their language, and sharpen our instinct for the kind of elevated service they are looking for. Listening to our customers grounds all our efforts in real, actionable strategies,” said San Agustin Driving stronger value for communities by reinventing the roll of malls Enriching its customer-focused operations, SM also integrated sustainability measures into its mall initiatives to strengthen community impact. “Our commitment to our customers naturally grew into a dedication to enriching our surrounding communities by maximizing the foot traffic we receive and the mall space we have,” said Tan. “With this, customers started associating us with a brand that goes beyond what a mall is and the role it plays in the every day,” said Tan. SM Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, launched “Book Nook” in SM Aura and SM Podium as a means of sharing the joy of reading and providing a conducive environment for moderated learning sessions across different age groups. What started as a post-pandemic initiative aimed at addressing book accessibility issues, grew into a larger scale advocacy of setting up a dedicated space not just for reading but learning in SM malls. Powered by book donations from generous partners and mallgoers, Book Nook generated 64 reading sessions with a total of more than 10,000 participants on top of more than five million mall interactions throughout one year. The initiative was so successful that apart from receiving a bronze Best Showcase for On Ground Activation from the PANAta awards, the concept launched a third iteration in SM North EDSA, with the SM Aura space undergoing remodeling for re-opening in 2026. “Our efforts to evolve and redefine the role we play in the communities we occupy stem from the heart of our operations, which are our customers,” said San Agustin. “SM would not have been able to grow to its current scale now if not for them, and it is only right that we persist in our mission to deliver the best to them, our partners, stakeholders, and communities.” San Agustin was also the recipient of the PANAta Executive Brand Builder of the Year Award.

ACMobility, BCDA, JHMC partner to recharge and power up travel in Camp John Hay

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

The partnership introduces DC EV charging hubs to support sustainable tourism in Baguio and expand ACMobility’s nationwide charging network BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — ACMobility, Ayala’s mobility arm and the leading provider of EV charging solutions and infrastructure in the Philippines, has partnered with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) to accelerate the development of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) in Camp John Hay, a key area under BCDA’s stewardship in Baguio City. Driving Sustainable Tourism Within Camp John Hay Spread out in three different key locations within Camp John Hay — Garden Wing, Public Parking Area, and Golf Club, these hubs are equipped with modern charging facilities that cater to different EV needs. With eight new charge points available, including Baguio City’s only DC Fast Charger to date, travelers heading up to Baguio for the holiday break can recharge conveniently and travel with confidence. This new addition is also on top of the existing EVCS at Camp John Hay Technohub, with more AC and DC chargers to be operational in the next couple of months. The Garden Wing hub will feature a 60kW DC Fast Charger capable of powering vehicles in as fast as 30 minutes alongside two 22kW AC chargers. Meanwhile, the Public Parking Area will have two 22kW chargers and the Golf Club hub will include two 7kW chargers. All chargers are likewise supported by the Evro app, allowing users to locate stations, check availability, charge, and pay with ease. “This partnership marks a key milestone in Camp John Hay’s pursuit of sustainable and eco-friendly tourism,” said Joshua M. Bingcang, President and CEO of BCDA. “By introducing reliable and accessible EV infrastructure at a location as strategic as Camp John Hay, we are creating not only greener and more convenient travel experience for residents and tourists, but also supporting ACMobility’s mission to provide accessible and reliable EV Charging across the country.” Expanding the EV Network Nationwide Looking ahead, ACMobility is also on track to deploy more charging points nationwide as we go into 2026 as part of their continuous efforts towards creating the Philippine EV Spine, a seamless network connecting cities and provinces to support the country’s transition to electrified mobility. “This year, we are accelerating the rollout of our nationwide EV network to reach more cities and key locations across the Philippines,” said Carla Buencamino, Head of Mobility Infrastructure at ACMobility. “By expanding our network and partnering with organizations like BCDA, we aim to provide reliable and accessible charging experiences that make it easier for Filipinos to adopt cleaner mobility solutions.” For those interested in establishing an ACMobility charging station or exploring partnership opportunities, visit https://acmobility.ph/.

917Ventures Recognized as a Great Place to Work® for 2025–2026

Environment

Environment / Street Journal

Employee Trust and Innovation Drive Recognition Empowering every venture, every person: 917Ventures is officially a Great Place to Work® for 2025–2026. 917Ventures has officially been recognized as a Great Place to Work® in the Philippines for 2025–2026, a distinction that comes directly from the voices of its employees. This certification highlights a thriving workplace culture built on trust, collaboration, and innovation, where every team member is empowered to grow, experiment, and make a meaningful impact. The achievement comes shortly after Globe received its own Great Place to Work® recognition, highlighting the shared people-first values and cultural alignment that run across the Globe Group. As the Group’s venture builder, 917Ventures continues to cultivate a workplace where experimentation is encouraged, creativity thrives, and growth opportunities are available for every team member. Employees are empowered to take initiative, learn from challenges, and actively shape the future of the ventures they support. Employee survey results show that 89 percent of 917Ventures staff consider it a great place to work, significantly higher than the 65 percent benchmark for companies in the Philippines. These results reflect not only the high level of trust employees place in leadership but also the strong collaboration, engagement, and sense of shared purpose that define the organization. Voices from 917Ventures Vince Yamat, President and CEO of 917Ventures, said, “We’re honored to receive this recognition, especially because it comes directly from our people. At 917Ventures, our culture is built on collaboration, experimentation, and shared purpose. This certification reflects the heart of our team, and motivates us to keep building a workplace where every venture can thrive.” Rase Eustaquio, Head of People, added, “This certification affirms our commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for every talent. Our people are the core of everything we do, and we’re proud to build a workplace that supports growth, wellbeing, and meaningful impact.” This recognition strengthens 917Ventures’ position as a hub for innovation and talent development while complementing Globe’s ongoing cultural transformation. Professionals who want to be part of a dynamic, people-driven environment are encouraged to explore opportunities with 917Ventures through https://917ventures.com/careers.

Pangasinan strengthens support for its Indigenous Peoples Communities

Region 1

Region 1 / Street Journal

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, Philippines — The Provincial Government of Pangasinan has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to uplifting every community, regardless of location, through the recent Indigenous Peoples Month Celebration held in Sitio Mapita, Aguilar. The event carried the theme *“Wearing Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development,”* highlighting the vital role of preserving native culture while advancing developmental efforts. A highlight of the program was the vibrant traditional tribal dance performance by the Indigenous Peoples Organization (IPO) Mapita, which showcased the community’s cultural identity and heritage. During the celebration, the Provincial Government, together with the Local Government Unit of Aguilar and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, distributed gift packs and provided financial assistance to IPs in the area. In a heartfelt message, Julita Sippi, a tribal member and teacher at Mapita Integrated School, expressed gratitude:_“In behalf ng buong tribo, marami pong salamat sa masidhing suporta. Kung iimbitahin daw namin sila yearly—yearly din daw silang support. Pero hindi lang naman ‘iyon ang natatanggap naming suporta galing sa kanila, simula noon pa man, support na talaga sila sa community namin. Kaya maraming salamat kay Governor Guico,” she said. The smiles of the Indigenous Peoples serve as a reminder that their traditions, stories, and practices are not only significant parts of history but also a key that opens the door to the future. (Trisha Gayle Chavaria, photo by John Paul De Vera | PIMRO)

Eastridge Teams Seize Double-Digit Leads

Sports

Sports / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines (Dec 10) — The youthful Eastridge Primehomes squad delivered a dominant second round performance at the Camp John Hay course, carding a tournament-best 151 to sprint to a commanding 20-point lead in the Fil Championship in the 75th Januarius Fil-Am Invitational Golf Tournament on Wednesday. Echoing last year’s record-setting run, Eastridge wasted no time in creating separation before heading into the shorter but more demanding Baguio Country Club Eighteen-year-old Miko Granada cooled off at the front nine after an eagle-aided four-under at the back, finishing with a three-under 39. Edison Tabalin, 20, added 35, while Ronel Taba-an turned in the day’s best round with a sizzling four-under 40. Bobe Salahog capped the charge by sinking a clutch 20-foot birdie to post a one-under 37. With a two-day total of 292 points, Eastridge opened a wide gap over the field, as no other team broke past 134 on the day. Januarius 1, which trailed by just two after Day 1, slipped to second after scoring 131 for a 270 total. Coby Rolida paced the team with an even-par 36, backed by Terence Macatangay’s 35, Ayon Sanchez’s 31 and Chuckie Hong’s 29. Batangas Barakos–Supremo remained in third with 256 behind Henry Bolano’s one-under 37. Close on their heels is IMG/SPES, which fired the day’s second-best 134 to reach 253, just two behind Batangas. Jik Jik Abdon and Masaichi Otake led the way with 38 and 37, respectively. Zachary Villaroman and Zachary Castro added 32 and 27. Eastridge Primehomes 2 also made a strong push, scoring 122 at the BCC to climb to 221 overall. Vito Sarines led with 34, Patrick Tambalque had 33, Ralph Ryan Batican chipped in 32, and Gary Sales added 23. Overnight leader EGC Primehomes M2 slipped after posting 103 for a 207 total, while Team M struggled to an 87 and dropped to third with 190. In Fil A action, Joseph Yeo fired a flight-best one-under 37 to lift Modern Tittos–Premium Feeds to a 131 and the lead with 245, just one point ahead of Januarius Ovialand 1. Jenz Tecson added 34, while Jose Iñigo Raymundo and Sung Hwan Yoon submitted matching 30s. For Januarius, Jonar Austria carded an even-par 36 in a 130 total for 244, with support from Richard Joson (32), Kirby Lachica (31), and Ray Sangil (31). Overnight leader Batangas Barakos slipped to third with 236, five behind X1R Smartscore, which totaled 231 after a 122. (FIL-AM MEDIA RELEASE)

SSS releases P18.8 billion in 13th month pension to 3.7 million pensioners

NCR

NCR / Street Journal

Quezon City, Philippines — In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and emphasized by Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go with the Social Security Commission, the Social Security System (SSS) has successfully credited its annual cash gift to pensioners – the 13th month pension – in two batches on the first week of December 2025, ensuring additional financial support during the holiday season. The first batch, released on 1 December 2025, covered around 2.13 million pensioners with a total amount of P10.5-B credited to their accounts. The second batch, credited on 4 December 2025, covered around 1.53 million pensioners, amounting to P8.3-B. In total, P18.8-B was distributed to around 3.66 million pensioners. SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph M. de Claro said the annual cash gift is part of SSS’ commitment to support its pensioners during the holiday season. “This is our way of giving back to our pensioners who have contributed to the System during their productive years. We hope this additional benefit brings joy and relief to them and their families this Christmas,” de Claro said. This year’s 13th month pension is higher for pensioners as of 31 August 2025 following the implementation of the Pension Reform Program starting September 2025. Under this reform program, retirement and disability pensioners received a 10% increase, while survivorship pensioners received a 5% increase, ensuring greater financial security for beneficiaries. The 13th month pension is automatically credited to the accounts of all SSS pensioners receiving retirement, disability, and survivorship pensions. SSS reminds pensioners to ensure their bank account details are updated to avoid delays in crediting. SSS assures the public of its continuous commitment to prudent stewardship of members’ funds. For 2024, the Commission on Audit (COA) issued an unmodified opinion, affirming the System’s fund integrity, overall financial soundness and adherence to good financial governance, even as specific audit observations are being addressed through established corrective measures.

Isabela holds first ‘RISE UP Isabela’ program to capacitate CSOs

Region 2

Region 2 / Street Journal

ISABELA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Isabela, in partnership with the provincial government, launched the first-ever “RISE UP Isabela: Reinforcing Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement for Unified Partnership” program on December 9, 2025 at the Capitol Amphitheater. The event brought together Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and community stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, transparency, and active participation in local governance. DILG Isabela Provincial Director Engr. Corazon D. Toribio highlighted the initiative as the first of its kind in the province, designed to empower CSOs to play an active role in local development. “It’s high time that all CSOs and partners know their responsibilities, what they can offer to the government, and how they can actively contribute to development in their municipalities, cities, and the province as a whole,” Toribio said. She urged CSOs to attend meetings regularly, validate government projects, and ensure accountability and transparency in local programs. Toribio also emphasized that third-party monitoring by CSOs ensures that no “ghost projects” exist in DILG initiatives. “You are essential partners of our country to ensure people-centered development”, she added. RISE UP Isabela seeks to equip CSOs with the knowledge and skills to become effective members of local special bodies, clarify their responsibilities and accountabilities, and foster equitable participation in decision-making. The program was divided into three modules: Local Development Council, led by EnP Maria Elena J. Sumisim; Local Health Board, presented by LGOO III Christi Anna F. Cielo and LGOO VII Karla Bernadette A. Rollan; and Local School Board, led by Mr. Romeo T. Fragata, Dr. Dante M. Aquino, and LGOO VII Cristina B. Somera. Sessions covered council operations, local health governance, and school board management, including oversight of special education funds. The initiative aligns with DILG MC No. 2025-060 Section 4.6, which provides guidelines on CSO accreditation and the reconstitution of Local Special Bodies (LSBs).

DOT-CAR officially opens the Mountain Tourism Summit 2025

CAR, Tourism / Health

CAR, Tourism / Health / Street Journal

A ð˜µð˜¸ð˜°-ð˜¥ð˜¢ð˜º ð˜¨ð˜¢ð˜µð˜©ð˜¦ð˜³ð˜ªð˜¯ð˜¨ ð˜°ð˜§ ð˜µð˜°ð˜¶ð˜³ð˜ªð˜´ð˜® ð˜ð˜¦ð˜¢ð˜¥ð˜¦ð˜³ð˜´, ð˜±ð˜¢ð˜³ð˜µð˜¯ð˜¦ð˜³ð˜´, ð˜¢ð˜¯ð˜¥ ð˜¢ð˜¥ð˜·ð˜°ð˜¤ð˜¢ð˜µð˜¦ð˜´ ð˜¢ð˜µ ð˜µð˜©ð˜¦ ð˜‰ð˜¢ð˜¨ð˜¶ð˜ªð˜° ð˜Šð˜°ð˜¶ð˜¯ð˜µð˜³ð˜º ð˜Šð˜ð˜¶ð˜£. The opening program featured messages from distinguished leaders and representatives, including Mayor Benjamin Magalong, represented by Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan; RDC Chair and Apayao Governor Elias Bulut Jr., represented by Regional Director Apollo Pagano; and a keynote message from DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, delivered by Director Judy Gabato. In her welcome message, Regional Director Jovita Ganongan thanked participants for their strong support and encouraged active collaboration throughout the summit. Delegates also enjoy a Mini-Bazaar showcasing outdoor, adventure, and mountain tourism partner brands. Day 1 featured an in-depth discussion on mountain tourism activities, issues, and opportunities with our panelists: Dir. Roberto P. Alabado III, Regional Director Jovita A. Ganongan, Mr. Robert Watson, Mr. Steven Rogers, Ms. Christine Ferrera, and moderator Dr. Maria Cherry Lyn S. Rodolfo. Participants also heard insights from our resource speakers: Mr. Carlos M. Libosada Jr., Mr. Lorenzo Manalang, Mr. Achyut Guragain, and Ms. Ludette Querubin, each presenting expertise on global perspectives, marketing strategies, best practices, and sustainable tourism initiatives in mountain areas. Day 1 wrapped up at Mt. Camisong Forest Park & Events, where Chairperson Ludette Querubin welcomed attendees and highlighted Mt. Camisong’s vision of leading by example as a sustainable mountain tourism destination.

Baguio joins UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities

Baguio City

Baguio City / Street Journal

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The city has been accepted into the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC), joining cities worldwide committed to advancing lifelong learning as a foundation for inclusive and sustainable development. Mayor Benjamin Magalong received formal notification of the city’s successful application from the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) on December 4, 2025, accompanied by an official Certificate of Membership. UNESCO announced the new member cities in a press release issued the same day. ð— ð—®ð˜†ð—¼ð—¿ ð— ð—®ð—´ð—®ð—¹ð—¼ð—»ð—´ ð—ªð—²ð—¹ð—°ð—¼ð—ºð—²ð˜€ ð˜ð—µð—² ð—¥ð—²ð—°ð—¼ð—´ð—»ð—¶ð˜ð—¶ð—¼ð—» Mayor Magalong hailed the development as a milestone for the Summer Capital, calling it “a testament to Baguio’s strong culture of learning and community empowerment.” “This recognition from UNESCO places Baguio on the world map not only as a creative city but now also as a learning city,” he said. “It validates the work of our educators, communities, and institutions in nurturing a culture where learning is accessible, inclusive, and lifelong. We welcome this opportunity to collaborate with global partners and further strengthen programs that uplift our people through education.” He added that the city will make full use of the platform to broaden its learning initiatives and advance sustainable development goals. ð— ð—²ð—ºð—¯ð—²ð—¿ð˜€ð—µð—¶ð—½ ð—•ð—²ð—»ð—²ð—³ð—¶ð˜ð˜€ ð—®ð—»ð—± ð—¢ð—½ð—½ð—¼ð—¿ð˜ð˜‚ð—»ð—¶ð˜ð—¶ð—²ð˜€ GNLC membership provides Baguio access to international platforms for policy dialogue, peer learning, and collaborative initiatives with learning-focused cities across the globe. Member cities work together to strengthen education systems, develop capacity-building programs, enhance monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and exchange knowledge on effective practices. UNESCO supports member cities in developing innovative approaches to lifelong learning strategies and encourages the sharing of successful models. Baguio has been invited to participate in UNESCO’s #ImALifelongLearner campaign, which promotes continuous learning among city residents. ð—•ð˜‚ð—¶ð—¹ð—±ð—¶ð—»ð—´ ð—¼ð—» ð—•ð—®ð—´ð˜‚ð—¶ð—¼’ð˜€ ð—˜ð—±ð˜‚ð—°ð—®ð˜ð—¶ð—¼ð—»ð—®ð—¹ ð—Ÿð—²ð—´ð—®ð—°ð˜† Long recognized as the educational center of Northern Luzon, Baguio’s acceptance into the GNLC affirms its enduring commitment to learning and knowledge-sharing. The Learning City designation strengthens initiatives already underway through the Creative Baguio City Council (CBCC), which advances creative education, cultural development, and community learning in line with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. As a UNESCO Creative City, Baguio now holds dual recognition within UNESCO’s global networks, demonstrating how integrated approaches to culture, creativity, education, and community development can drive urban resilience and inclusion. ð—¡ð—²ð˜…ð˜ ð—¦ð˜ð—²ð—½ð˜€ The City Government, CBCC, and education stakeholders will develop local communication initiatives and align programs with UNESCO’s lifelong learning framework. UNESCO has provided official logos, communication templates, and campaign guidelines to support implementation. This achievement positions Baguio as a leader in demonstrating how Philippine cities can leverage international networks to advance sustainable and equitable development. The city’s application to the prestigious body was prepared by a team composed of Creative Baguio City Council (CBCC) co-chairperson Marie Venus Tan, City Tourism Operations Officer Aloysius Mapalo, City Planning Development and Sustainability Coordinator Donna Tabangin, artists Liezl Dunuan and Gabe Mercado, and representatives from the city’s different schools. – CBCC

Author name: Street Journal

SM Supermalls ends 2025 with seven awards for customer-centered excellence