Can’t get enough of SEVENTEEN? Continue the concert hype by bringing home something from SEVENTEEN. Running from January 15 to February 26, 2025, the pop-up store is located on the third level of the North Main Mall at SM Mall of Asia. Fans can visit daily between 10 A.M. and 10 P.M. to explore and purchase the unique, member-designed pieces that make up the Artist-Made Collection.

What makes the Artist-Made Collection so special? It’s more than just merchandise–each product is handpicked and designed by SEVENTEEN themselves, infused with their personalities, creativity, and love for their Carats. From Woozi’s playful rice bowl set to Jeonghan’s adorable Toram plushie, every item tells its own story and feels like a personal connection to your bias. This collection isn’t just about owning SEVENTEEN-inspired items—it’s about holding onto a piece of their journey and keeping their magic close to you every day.

Top Things to See and Do at the Pop-Up

Explore SEVENTEEN’s Artist Made Collection

One of the highlights of the pop-up is the Artist Made Collection, which has quickly become the most sought-after line. Each item is personally conceptualized by the members, allowing fans to feel a stronger connection to their idols. As a bonus, purchases come with an exclusive store-only postcard to add to your collection.

 

The Artist-Made Collection features items that reflect the personalities and creativity of SEVENTEEN’s members. Here are just some of the must-see and must-have pieces:

S.Coups: A practical yet charming collection that includes an umbrella alongside a trio of drinking glasses—beer, somaek, and shot glasses—perfect for fans who appreciate his love for Korean drinking culture.

Jeonghan: The Toram plushie, the top-seller in the Philippines, is as adorable and irresistible as the artist himself.

Joshua: Fans can channel their inner artist with his perfume DIY kit, a perfect blend of creativity and personalization.

Jun: The cutest set of cat keychains, each with a distinct fruit smell when squeezed—an adorable tribute to his feline companions.

Hoshi: Tamtam, his tiger-inspired character, is available as a plush toy or a keyring—a perfect nod to his "10:10" spirit.

Wonwoo: Gamers will love his cute purple mechanical keyboard, designed with functionality and style in mind, while photography enthusiasts can carry their gear in his love-packed camera cross bag.

Woozi: The Ppyoppyoticon Rice Bowl Set, a must-have for foodie fans who want to bring a touch of Woozi to their dining table.

DK: A charming photobook filled with his creative snapshots and an adorable plush toy that embodies his vibrant personality.

Mingyu: A sleek pot and pan set that’s as stylish as it is functional, along with his luxurious robe that fans can wear and feel a connection to him.

The8: Relaxation takes center stage with THEpalee, his coziest slipper and mask set, as well as an elegant tea set for serene moments.

Seungkwan: Merchandise reflecting his sporty side, along with a face massager especially for your jaw, with a nod to his sharp jawline.

Vernon: A minimalist flower vase and a sleek glass, adding a touch of elegance to any space.

Dino: Items for winding down, including a relaxing night candle and a wine glass set, showcasing his growth and maturity. Maknae no more!

DIY Key Ring Station

For fans who love a little extra flair, the DIY keyring station is your creative haven. Mix and match charms inspired by all 13 members to build a keyring as unique as your SEVENTEEN journey. From designs showcasing the members’ handwriting to logos and playful character references, you’ll find something for every bias…or all of them, because who could resist!

Making your keyring couldn’t be easier—each section is thoughtfully arranged like a charm buffet. Grab your tray and pick the pieces that resonate most with you. Whether it’s a small nod to your ultimate bias or a collection that represents the whole group, this station is your space to express your fandom.

Not sure what to take home? Whether you're a foodie eyeing Woozi’s Ppyoppyoticon Rice Bowl Set or an anik-anik enthusiast charmed by Jun’s fruity, scented furbaby keychains, there’s something special waiting for you. S.Coups’ heat-changing glasses and umbrella set are both practical and meaningful, while Wonwoo’s camera bag is perfect for those who want to carry a piece of SEVENTEEN’s creativity wherever they go.

Don’t miss out on your chance to experience the magic in person at SM Mall of Asia! Below are the guidelines as provided by HYBE.

Pop-Up Operating Schedule:

Dates: January 15 to February 26, 2025

Hours: Open daily from 10 A.M. to 10 P.M.

Location: Level 3, North Main Mall, SM Mall of Asia

Admission Guidelines:

The pop-up can host a maximum of 50 guests at a time. Please queue outside while waiting your turn. CCTV cameras are in operation for the safety of both guests and staff.

Guests are responsible for their personal belongings, and the pop-up management will not be liable for any loss, damage, or theft. Food, drinks, and pets are not allowed inside the pop-up.

Unauthorized commercial photography or videography is prohibited.

The pop-up management reserves the right to deny entry or ask any guest to leave for disruptive or inappropriate behavior. Photos and videos taken inside the pop-up may be shared on HYBE’s official social media platforms.

Purchasing Guidelines:

All items sold are exclusive to the Artist-Made Collection by SEVENTEEN at the pop-up.

Product purchase limits may vary, and exceeding the limit will result in canceled transactions.

Payments can be made using cash, credit cards, or other cashless options.

Products may sell out quickly due to limited quantities.

Item exchanges are allowed within seven (7) days of purchase, with proof of purchase.

Defective items may be exchanged or refunded on the same day of purchase. Please double-check your purchases at checkout. Exchanges will not be accepted for change of mind or for items that have been used, worn, or damaged by the customer.

Don’t forget to take in the creative displays that showcase SEVENTEEN’s dedication to their fans. From thoughtful member-designed collections to the mini-exhibits, it’s more than a pop-up—it’s a love letter to Carats.

Follow @apopcollections on X for restock updates and official prices. Dive into SEVENTEEN's magic at SM MOA! This exclusive pop-up, a first in the Philippines, brings the group's brilliance to Manila just for Carats. Let's make this moment unforgettable, Carats!

For updates and more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.

SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime), a pioneer in sustainability initiatives in the Philippines, has long been committed to environmental stewardship and building resilient structures. From its early adoption of water recycling and innovative energy management programs to operationalizing renewable energy and waste management, SM Prime has consistently prioritized sustainability. This commitment was further underscored by the company's active participation in the recent Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, hosted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Office of Civil Defense. At the conference, Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee, emphasized the critical role of resilience in urban populations and how innovation and multi-sectoral collaboration are essential for the country's sustainable development.

The Philippines is highly vulnerable to natural hazards, especially tropical cyclones and typhoons, making disaster risk management (DRM) and resilient infrastructure crucial. SM Prime employs a hydrological survey approach in building locations to determine flood susceptibility.

SM City Marikina prioritizes safety with flood mitigation measures, ensuring a secure and comfortable environment for the community.

SM City Marikina, elevated on 246 concrete stilts, allows floodwaters to flow beneath, keeping occupants safe during severe weather events.

A strong example of such resilience lies in SM City Marikina, whose unique structure was lauded by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction. Built beside the Marikina River, an area prone to flooding during severe weather events, SM City Marikina stands on 246 concrete stilts. This innovative design allows floodwaters to flow beneath the structure, leaving the mall and its occupants safe and dry. During Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) in 2009, which devastated surrounding areas, SM City Marikina remained intact, serving as a refuge for those affected by the disaster. Similar to the stilts methodology, SM City Cabanatuan’s lower ground parking level serves as a temporary catchment basin.

SM City Cabanatuan demonstrates SM Prime's dedication to flood mitigation through its robust design.

SM City Cabanatuan's lower ground parking level doubles as a temporary flood catchment basin, a crucial element of our flood mitigation strategy.

Beyond these two malls, this promise of flood resilience is present in other properties. A key innovation employed by SM Prime is the implementation of rainwater catchment basins in its malls. These massive underground tanks, similar in size to swimming pools, collect and store rainwater from the street level, mitigating flooding in surrounding communities. Twenty-nine SM Supermalls across the country are equipped with these basins, boasting a combined capacity of 85,400 cubic meters – enough to fill over 34 Olympic-sized swimming pools!

Built to protect, SM City Masinag incorporates a rainwater catchment basin to minimize the impact of heavy rainfall.

SM City Masinag's rainwater catchment basin collected 8,652.60 cubic meters of rainwater during Super Typhoon Carina.

Designed with the community in mind, SM City Masinag incorporates flood mitigation measures for safety.

These catchment basins have proven invaluable during recent typhoons. For instance, SM City Masinag's rainwater catchment basin played a crucial role during Super Typhoon Carina (Gaemi) last July 2024, effectively managing the increased water volume. It collected 8,652.60 cubic meters of rainwater, equivalent to 264 gallons of water. As the first SM mall equipped with a rainwater catchment basin, SM City Masinag was strategically built in a historically flood-prone area, serving as a catch basin for water flowing down from upper Antipolo. In the second half of 2024, SM malls prevented an estimated total of 46,405 cubic meters of rainwater--the volume of 18 Olympic-sized swimming pools--from flooding the surrounding areas.

Mr. Gareth Aboy, a resident and former officer of Vermont Phase 1 Association near SM City Masinag, expressed his gratitude: “The residents of Vermont Park Executive Village of Antipolo would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to SM City Masinag for always being there in our times of need. Thank you for keeping your doors open for our immediate daily needs, your elevated parking spaces for our vehicles, and for keeping your water catchment basin open to help drain the water from our flood-prone village. SM City Masinag has always been and will continue to be a treasure for the residents of Vermont Park Executive Village of Antipolo.”

Sustainability and resilience are at the core of SM Prime's business strategy. The company invests significantly in these measures, recognizing that the benefits – safer communities, environmental protection, and enhanced business continuity – far outweigh the costs. SM Prime remains committed to building a more resilient future for the communities it serves.

The wait is over! The globally celebrated Japanese dessert brand Warabimochi Kamakura has officially opened its doors at SM Megamall’s Level 3, Mega Fashion Hall. Known for its melt-in-your-mouth magic, this viral sensation is the latest addition to SM Supermalls’ reputation as the #HomeOfFirsts, bringing first-to-market brands and world-class culinary experiences to Filipino foodies.

A Taste Fit for Royalty

Once a delicacy reserved for Japanese royalty, warabimochi has been reimagined by Warabimochi Kamakura into a global phenomenon. Crafted with a secret recipe and premium ingredients, their signature warabimochi boasts a delicate, jelly-like texture that dissolves blissfully in your mouth. Available in Kinako (roasted soybean flour) and Matcha, each serving is paired with a luscious Kuromitsu syrup that elevates the flavor.

But the experience doesn’t end there—Warabimochi Kamakura is also famous for its warabimochi drinks, a modern twist on the classic dessert. These refreshing beverages come packed with chewy warabimochi pieces in flavors like Matcha, Hojicha, Strawberry, Coffee, and the zesty Matcha Lemonade. Don’t miss out on their limited-edition seasonal flavors, with the first to be launched this Valentine's Day, which are always worth the wait!

A Global Sensation Lands in Manila

With over 65 stores across Japan and a growing presence in foodie destinations like South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, USA, Australia and China, Warabimochi Kamakura has captured the hearts of dessert lovers around the world. Known for its viral appeal and signature taste, it’s no surprise that the brand has become synonymous with long lines and eager customers. Now, as part of SM Supermalls’ #HomeOfFirsts, SM Megamall is proud to be the exclusive Philippine destination where you can experience this sweet sensation firsthand.

Discover What’s New at SM Megamall

SM Supermalls takes pride in being the #HomeOfFirsts—bringing you the best in world-class dining, first-to-market brands, and groundbreaking experiences that redefine what it means to have it all. Warabimochi Kamakura’s arrival at SM Megamall expands the mall’s roster of brands offering Filipino mallgoers unforgettable experiences that both inspire and connect communities. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the world-renowned Japanese dessert phenomenon—come visit and be part of this sweet sensation!

Stay connected! Follow @kamakura_philippines on Instagram for updates, exclusive content, and sneak peeks. For more sweet discoveries and exciting first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

This Valentine’s Day, Infinix invites you to celebrate love in all its forms through its exciting XPRESS LOVE STORY and BINGO XPRESS CARD initiatives. Whether you’re a gamer, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone with a heartwarming story to share, this is your chance to connect, inspire, and win exclusive prizes!

XPRESS Love Story Season 2: Share Your Love, Inspire Others

The XPRESS Love Story podcast is back for its second year, bringing even more heartwarming and inspiring stories to life! Following the success of its debut, this year’s edition will premiere on February 8, featuring the top three love stories shared by our amazing XFans.

These incredible tales will be showcased on the official Infinix Facebook page, where fans can vote for their favorite from February 11 to 13. The winning story will receive an Infinix phone and an exclusive baking experience at IDIM DIY Bakery—the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in style!

But that’s not all! In partnership with IDIM DIY Bakery, ZERO Flip users who visit select stores (SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay) between February 1 and 14 can enjoy a free cake and take part in a fun baking session. This exclusive offer is available while supplies last, so don’t miss the chance to treat yourself this Valentine’s season!

Join us as we celebrate love, community, and creativity. Share your story, inspire others, and make this year’s XPRESS Love Story truly unforgettable.

Submit your story here and celebrate #InfiniteLove with Infinix.

Bingo XPRESS Card: Play, Engage, and Win

Valentine’s Day just got more fun with the Bingo XPRESS Card activity! Join the challenge and tick off your Valentine’s goals for a chance to win exclusive prizes.

How to Participate:

Follow Infinix Philippines on Facebook and TikTok (@infinixphilippines).

Join the Infinix Philippines Official Facebook Group and XClub Messenger.

Mark your Bingo XPRESS Card, share it on your profile, and comment with a screenshot as proof of your participation.

Mark your calendars and don’t miss this unique chance to share your story, engage with the Infinix Community, and make this Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable.

For more information, visit the official Facebook page and stay updated with the latest announcements.

 In celebration of National Autism Consciousness Week, SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines (ASP), and GMA Pictures partnered to host a successful sensory-friendly screening of the award-winning film "Firefly" on January 17, 2025. Over 2,000 participants across 10 SM malls, including children on the autism spectrum and their families, enjoyed a heartwarming and inclusive movie experience.

"Tuwing pumapasok kami sa mga SM malls, damang-dama namin acceptance, accomodation, and appreciation. It is the norm here," said Autism Society Philippines (ASP) Chair Emerita Dang Uy Koe.

A child on the autism spectrum shares a smile with their loved one during the sensory-friendly screening of "Firefly" at SM Southmall.

SM Cares, SM Cinema, Autism Society Philippines, and GMA Pictures join forces to bring a sensory-friendly screening of "Firefly" to children on the autism spectrum and their families at SM North EDSA Cinema.

“Firefly” stars Alessandra De Rossi (right) and Euwenn Mikaell (left) grace the sensory-friendly screening at SM North EDSA Cinema. Creating a welcoming space

The "Lights Up, Sounds Down" event went beyond entertainment. By adjusting lights and volume, creating a relaxed atmosphere, and allowing for movement and vocalizations, the screening catered to the specific needs of attendees on the autism spectrum. This empowered them to enjoy the movie at their own pace and comfort level.

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) National Spokesperson Mona Magno-Veluz shares a message in a video celebrating National Autism Consciousness Week.

A heartwarming moment captured at the sensory-friendly screening of 'Firefly' at SM City Olongapo Central, where families enjoyed a welcoming and inclusive movie experience.

"At SM Supermalls, we firmly believe that creating spaces where every individual feels valued, respected, and included is a responsibility we hold dearly. This is a way of life here," said SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs Engr. Bien Mateo.

The guests experience the magic of "Firefly" at the sensory-friendly screening in SM City Telabastagan, Pampanga.

An invited guest is captivated by the sensory-friendly screening at SM City Marikina.

A boy enjoys the special screening and shows respect and gratitude with a traditional 'mano po' at SM City Cebu.

Ongoing commitment

Positive feedback from families echoed the event's success. Many expressed appreciation for the inclusive environment, highlighting the joy and comfort it provided. This powerful experience underscores the importance of catering to the autism community's needs.

SM Cares: Championing inclusion

A commitment to inclusivity requires ongoing effort. SM demonstrates this by investing in employee training programs to better support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Additionally, SM Cinema prioritizes accessibility features within their theaters, creating a welcoming environment for all guests.

SM Cares is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, with programs that support communities, promote social inclusion, and care for the environment. Aside from the program on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.

To learn more, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

SM Podium elevates its sophisticated dining experience with the launch of Lusso by Margarita Forés—the first Margarita Signature restaurant, established by the celebrated chef and restaurateur Margarita Forés, to become part of SM’s prestigious portfolio. With the festive season in full swing, Lusso offers the perfect setting to celebrate life’s special moments, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a romantic dinner, or a quiet indulgence with loved ones.

Renowned for her world-class culinary artistry, recognized as Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016 by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Forés brings her signature touch of elegance and exceptional flavors to this exciting new addition. Lusso promises an extraordinary culinary journey that combines the finest ingredients, impeccable presentation, and flavors that linger long after the last bite. Known for her innovative approach to Italian cuisine and her dedication to celebrating Filipino flavors on the global stage, Forés brings unparalleled expertise and a passion for excellence to every dish. At Lusso, dining becomes more than just a meal—it’s an experience.

Lusso is the perfect setting for creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner with someone special, hosting a cozy family gathering, or celebrating milestones with your closest friends, the restaurant offers the perfect backdrop to celebrate the season in style.

Lusso is a natural inclusion in SM Podium, seamlessly aligning with its reputation as a haven for elevated experiences through its curated offerings, sophisticated ambiance, and dedication to world-class dining. Offering an exquisite menu designed to indulge the senses, the restaurant is an invitation to savor life’s finer moments. 

Signature dishes like the Portobello Mushroom, Asparagus & Goat Cheese Mille-Feuille and the decadent Lobster Linguine highlight Lusso's commitment to culinary artistry. From sumptuous dishes crafted with precision to an ambiance that radiates understated luxury, Lusso transforms every visit into an unforgettable affair.

Visit Lusso at SM Podium and make this festive season truly special. Whether you're indulging in a celebratory feast or treating yourself to an unforgettable dining experience, Lusso offers more than just a meal—it’s a taste of refined luxury. Discover more reasons to celebrate, more moments to savor, and more for you at SM, where exceptional dining meets the spirit of togetherness. 

Imagine a world powered by the sun, the ultimate source of life. As climate change worsens due to fossil fuel use, sustainable energy alternatives are more crucial than ever. The Philippines, with its abundant sunlight, is uniquely positioned to harness solar power and help combat climate change. In 2024, Manila experienced around 4,440 hours of daylight, which translates to a significant potential for solar energy production.

SM Prime recognized this potential early on. In 2014, SM North EDSA became the first commercial property in the Philippines to install solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on its roof, achieving the largest installation in Southeast Asia at the time. This move signaled the beginning of SM Prime’s commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency.

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan explains, “SM’s environmental sustainability began with energy and water conservation. Revolutionizing our malls’ energy efficiency through renewable sources magnifies our responsibility to serving people and the planet.”

Today, SM Supermalls operates 44 malls with solar PV systems, generating a combined peak energy of 51.6 megawatts (MW). The largest installation is at SM City Santa Rosa. With a total of 96,000 solar panels across malls in Luzon and Visayas, SM Prime holds the Philippines’ largest solar energy portfolio, covering around 33 hectares. These efforts are a vital part of the company’s Net Zero by 2040 strategy, aimed at reducing its carbon footprint.

This 51.6 MW capacity significantly cuts carbon emissions, providing clean energy that powers thousands of homes or removes thousands of cars from the roads. It also reduces the need for coal, offering environmental benefits for both the planet and local communities.

The solar power generated directly fuels essential mall operations like lighting and escalators, reducing SM Supermalls' reliance on the national grid. This, in turn, helps stabilize the power supply, reducing the risk of outages and easing the burden on electricity providers. By tapping into clean, renewable energy, SM Prime is contributing to a more sustainable future for the Philippines.

SM Prime’s sustainability efforts extend beyond solar energy. The company also focuses on waste management, water conservation, and air quality initiatives, all designed to minimize environmental impact. Through these comprehensive measures, SM Prime strives to create a positive change while ensuring responsible, innovative operations.

In sum, SM Prime’s large-scale adoption of solar PV systems, combined with its broader environmental initiatives, exemplifies its dedication to creating a sustainable future for the Philippines. By leading in renewable energy and sustainability, SM Prime is helping pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and brighter tomorrow.

The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, a 67-hectare landmark along Manila Bay, showcases SM Prime Holdings’ commitment to leveraging technology and innovation for disaster resilience and community protection for all its projects.

Initially conceived as a pioneering mixed-use development on reclaimed land spearheaded by the Philippine government, it has evolved into a benchmark of safety and stability, fulfilling the vision of founder Henry Sy, Sr., who aspired to create “a destination that brings joy and opportunities to millions.”

Expanding on his father’s vision, Hans Sy, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman and co-chair of ARISE Philippines under the United Nations Office of Disaster Risk Resilience (UNDRR), emphasizes the importance of creating resilient, sustainable spaces that prioritize both safety and community well-being.

"We believe that safety is the cornerstone of thriving communities," Mr. Sy states. In affirmation of this belief, he stands as the first Filipino elected to the UNDRR ARISE Global Board.

Launched in 2015, ARISE Philippines is the country’s 157-member-strong premier private sector alliance united by a shared vision of a resilient and prosperous future. The organization, the first country network established by the UNDRR, aims to minimize disaster-related loss of life, ensure investments and assets are risk-informed, and build infrastructure capable of withstanding both natural and man-made hazards.

SM Prime’s commitment to resilience is evident in the very design of the MOA Complex, which incorporates cutting-edge disaster resilience features to protect against the unique challenges posed by its coastal location.

Before construction began, SM Prime engaged the expertise of Jan de Nul, a renowned Belgian coastal development company. Their extensive research and studies ensured the viability of the project, taking into account the complex interplay of land and sea. To create a resilient structure, the company conducted risk reviews in which the following components are incorporated: Identify, analyze, plan, mitigate, and monitor. This meticulous pre-engineering phase laid the groundwork for a structure, completed in 2006, that was capable of withstanding the test of time and nature.

One of the key challenges addressed was soil erosion. To combat this, the team implemented a sophisticated system of wick drains. These drains act as pathways for pore water in soft, compressible soil, effectively preventing erosion and ensuring the stability of the land. This technology, while more costly than traditional methods, provides a significantly higher degree of protection, particularly against liquefaction during seismic events.

The threat of ground liquefaction, a phenomenon where soil loses its strength and behaves like a liquid during earthquakes, was also mitigated through innovative foundation design. Driven and bored piles, combined with precise excavation methods, provide the complex with robust resistance against liquefaction and seismic activity.

Reference photo for the driven piles methodology, which protects against soil liquefaction and provides strength against earthquakes.

To protect against storm surges, a common threat in coastal areas, the complex boasts a robust seawall. This seawall, standing 4.5 meters higher than the Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) mark, is further reinforced by a wave return feature. This inverted structure deflects high waves back towards the sea, minimizing their impact on the complex. A network of drainage channels further enhances flood prevention during storm surges.

These features were instrumental in protecting the complex during Typhoon Pedring (international name Nesat) in 2011, as well as in all succeeding severe weather disturbances this year, where the MOA Complex emerged largely unscathed while helping nearby areas avoid being inundated by prolonged deep flooding.

The wave return feature redirects water back into the bay, providing protection from high waves.

The Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex higher seawall and elevation prevent damage to the structure from rising sea levels. (Inset) In addition, the drainage channels along the MOA Complex are wide and deep enough to fit two buses side by side, helping prevent flooding from storm surges.

The complex's resilience extends beyond its foundation. The main road and all structures are elevated significantly above the National Building Code requirements, further minimizing the risk of flooding. Buildings are equipped with Earthquake Recording Instruments (ERI) that monitor seismic activity and provide valuable data for disaster preparedness.

The structural integrity of the buildings themselves is also paramount. The roof deck, for instance, is designed to withstand substantial loads, ensuring it can serve as a safe refuge during emergencies. The exterior façade is concrete masonry walls with Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS), designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 270 kph and provide excellent insulation. This commitment to safety transforms SM Supermalls like the SM MOA into havens for the community during times of crisis.

SM Prime's dedication to disaster resilience is not merely a response to potential threats; it is a proactive strategy integrated into the DNA of all its business operations. The company automatically allocates a significant portion of its capital expenditure to disaster resilience research and construction, recognizing that investing in safety is an investment in the future.

SM Prime's longstanding reputation as a responsible property developer is built not only on its contributions to the country’s economic growth and the creation of dynamic lifestyle destinations, but also on its unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the communities it serves. The MOA Complex stands as a powerful symbol of this commitment, a beacon of resilience in the face of natural adversity.

Many of us think of chickenpox as a childhood illness — a harmless rite of passage that fades into memory once the itchy blisters heal. However, what most people don't realize is that the virus behind chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), never really leaves the body. Instead, it lies dormant in the nervous system for years, only to reawaken later in life as a painful and potentially debilitating condition known as shingles.1

Shingles, or "kulebra" as it’s locally known, is a viral infection that can cause severe discomfort. It’s the same virus that caused your chickenpox but reawakens when your immune system is weakened.2

In a radio interview, Family Medicine and Geriatrics Expert Dr. Cheridine Oro-Josef, likened the pain of shingles to "a dormant volcano suddenly coming to life."3 She emphasized that the most challenging symptom isn’t the rash itself, but rather the nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia4 or long-term nerve pain. Her patients often described this pain as "barbed wires" piercing the skin, which can linger for months or even years after the rash has healed.

"When it develops there, it can be extremely painful because it affects the nerves. Our sensations come from our nerves, so if they are inflamed or affected, the pain can be really intense,” Dr. Oro-Josef said.

Shingles primarily affects older adults, particularly those over 50,2 as well as individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions such as asthma, coronary heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, or rheumatoid arthritis.5 In fact, about 24 percent of adults aged 50 to 59—around 2 million Filipinos—are at risk of developing shingles.6

Spotting the signs

Shingles often starts with signs that are easy to miss. You might feel itching, tingling, or a burning sensation on one side of your body.4 This early feeling can seem like a minor skin irritation but is actually a warning of more noticeable symptoms to come.

As shingles progresses, a painful rash usually appears. It begins with a few red spots or small blisters that quickly turn into clusters of fluid-filled blisters, which then crust over. In addition to the rash, shingles can cause sharp, shooting pain that can last for more than 10 days.4 You might also experience fever, headaches, sensitivity to light, and fatigue.2 

Dr. Oro-Josef noted that since the VZV can spread through direct contact with fluid from shingles blisters or through airborne particles if the blisters burst, individuals with shingles should isolate themselves. This helps prevent spreading the virus, especially to those who haven’t had chickenpox or been vaccinated.3

Personal Collection (PC), one of the leading Filipino-owned direct-selling companies, bags the “Home Brand of the Year - Philippines” at the FMCG Asia Awards 2024 for its flagship brand, Tuff, making it the only Philippine brand to receive the award this year.

The award-giving body recognized Tuff's commitment to expert cleaning and sustainability, solidifying its status as a trusted choice in Filipino households. Tuff, the first-ever brand of Personal Collection, which began as a toilet bowl cleanser, has since evolved into a comprehensive home care line.

Additionally, most Tuff products are packaged in biodegradable materials, designed to decompose within five to ten years in landfill conditions. This initiative reflects the brand's proactive effort to help address the pressing problem of plastic pollution in the Philippines.

Jun Evangelista, Chairman of the Board of Personal Collection received the Home Brand of the Year Award at the FMCG Asia Awards 2024 in Singapore “This award reflects the hard work and passion our team puts into making Tuff better every day. We're committed to creating quality products that truly make a difference in our consumers’ lives, one home at a time. This fuels our drive to keep innovating and raising the bar in the home care industry,” Jun Evangelista, Chairman of the Board stated.

Tuff's product range has expanded over the years to meet the diverse needs of Filipino households. The line now includes products such as the Tuff Multi-Surface Cleanser, Tuff Protectant, Tuff Liquid Laundry Detergent, and Tuff Germban, among others. All these newest additions carry the same high-quality standard that its loyal customers love about Tuff Toilet Bowl Cleanser.

The FMCG Asia Awards is a prestigious awards series recognizing the most outstanding companies in Asia Pacific’s FMCG industry. The awards celebrate the constant and innovative initiatives in individuals and organizations and provide a venue to spotlight companies such as Personal Collection that are at the forefront of the future of consumer goods in the country.

In addition, Personal Collection continues to garner recognition for its product excellence across various categories. MilkyBright, its flavored milk drink, won the Parent’s Choice Award of the AsianParent Awards 2024. Alfa-1 Antibacterial Soap received the Editor’s Choice Award given by the Esquire Essentials Awards 2024. Aspire Body Spray Romance was recognized as the winner in the Body Mist category, while Check Antibacterial Soap with Moisturizer won in the Liquid Antibacterial Hand Soap category of the Cosmo Awards 2024. One of Tuff's standout products, Tuff Germban has also received the "Best Disinfectant" award from the Smart Parenting Awards 2024.

Moreover, the In The Mood Lipstick Collection was recently named one of the year’s Best Beauty Finds by the Metro Beauty Awards 2024. You may check out the award-winning products and other products from a Personal Collection dealer or visit their official stores on Lazada, Shopee, and https://www.personalcollection.com.ph/.