OBRA
Henry Sy, Sr.: The legacy endures


October 26, 2023 2:23 p.m.
The story of Henry Sy, Sr., who profoundly changed the way Filipinos shop, dine, and entertain themselves through his SM mall and retail chains, is the stuff of legends.
Indeed, the well-documented and eventful life story of the Father of Philippine Retailing has been told and retold over the years, providing a rich source of lessons and inspiration to many Filipinos, especially those who are valued partners of the SM Group.
Amelia Manas, co-founder and chairperson of Bruno’s Barbers, did not have the pleasure of directly interacting with Tatang, as Sy was fondly called, but recalls seeing him from afar in one of malls that he had built.
Even then, Manas was inspired to pursue the growth and diversification for Bruno’s Barbers, guided by Tatang’s example of how big things such as SM can come from small beginnings.
Manas draws parallels with the story of Bruno’s Barbers that also started from a single branch in Alabang and has now grown to some 70 branches, of which 35 percent are in SM Malls.
“There is the story of how Henry Sy, Sr. and his family would gather for weekend lunch. We do the same. And like them, we also always end up talking about business,” Manas shared with a smile.
For her son Marco Pascual, who took over the reins of Bruno’s Barbers as president in 2019, Tatang also demonstrated by example how it is important to work for a vision that goes beyond just the business.
“As leaders, what we bring to the table should be beyond oneself. His life and accomplishments will always be an inspiration for me because of his contributions to the economy of the country and the Filipino people,” said Pascual.
Following Tatang’s footsteps, Bruno’s Barbers contributes what it can by providing jobs to some 1,200 people which creates a positive ripple effect for their families and lives that they touch.
“We at Bruno’s Barbers continue to be aligned with SM. We want to be closer to our customers while providing livelihood for our countrymen,” he said.
“The growth we are experiencing with SM continues to be exciting. With their 2026 goal of 100 malls, we hope to continue reaching new markets in the country which otherwise would have been difficult to penetrate, especially those outside of the Metro Manila area,” Pascual added.

Like Pascual, Adrian Dimacali, Director of the group behind the popular and fast-expanding chain of Mary Grace Cafes that was founded on the baking skills of his mother, Grace, was also encouraged by Tatang’s oft-retold rags-to-riches story, of how rewards inevitably come from honest hard work and discipline.
“I remember one time, my Mom and I were meeting someone and I saw a picture of Henry Sy, Sr. and his family. We were reflecting on how difficult the business was and questioning whether we should keep building. I told her, we are just opening restaurants, they are opening big malls,” he said, “They are doing their part to keep the economy going, to provide opportunities to tenants. I guess we have to keep opening too, to help our people and our suppliers.”
Mary Grace Café opened its first SM branch at SM Southmall in 2012 and from there expanded its SM footprint to 20 cafes out of 73 all over the country and then 31 out of 70 kiosks.
“Now we have a five-year plan because when you reach a certain point, you have to protect what we have built,” said Mary Grace, “That is always my prayer because it is a gift, this business of ours. Good thing that I have my daughter and my sons with me and each have their own talents that make the business whole!”
Indeed, an example of a family working together like the one nurtured by Tatang, whose diverse companies are now ably run by his children.

Malou Fores, the driving force behind the acclaimed Mamou restaurants, and her husband Jorge “Oye” Araneta Fores, who is in charge of finance and marketing for the chain, can certainly relate to the challenges as well as the rewards from harnessing the power of family to grow an enterprise from the ground up.
And like the Dimacalis, they are constantly inspired by Tatang’s compelling and unique growth story that has lost none of its significance from every retelling.
Jorge shares that Tatang – who had an SM Department Store in the Araneta Center – was a regular visitor to the Cubao home of his uncle, Araneta Group CEO Jorge Araneta, and he recalled how he and his siblings and cousins were not allowed to disturb them while they had their discussions over a hearty home-cooked meal.
“That must have been about 35 years ago when they would have one-on-ones in the house. I was moved by that sight, of these two people I admired who saw each other as equals and partners, not one who is a lessor and one who is a tenant. There was mutual respect,” he said.
Malou and Jorge Fores apply the same principle of partnership and collaboration in the way they are growing their business, seeing SM Supermalls, for example, as an integral partner in the success of Mamou, which now has six restaurants including the latest branch at SM’s S Maison at Conrad Manila.
“I always see business as something that is a partnership. I have worked on both sides, as a mall manager and now as a lessee. I know that for a relationship to work, you cannot say I am a landlord and you are a tenant. It has to be a mutually beneficial relationship,” said Jorge.
That business principle has paid dividends for the SM Group and promises to do the same for the celebrated Mamou.

For Eric Teng, CEO of The Mango Tree and Gengki Sushi, what Tatang went through to grow his empire from the Shoemart store in Manila showed them that to succeed, one must be willing to work harder than everybody else.
“Do it for family. For their security. For their future. Don’t quit. The harder times are just part of life that we overcome,” said Teng.
“I totally agree with Tatang on the value of hard work. Being able to see things others cannot and lead everyone through hard times to thriving times is a gift [of Tatang that] I wish I have. You can’t go wrong by working hard. And we must surround ourselves with people who are equally driven by the same life principles,” added Teng.

George Mirani, chair of the dominant Mirani Group that retails and distributes internationally recognized fashion and lifestyle accessories brands in the Philippines, certainly shares similar life principles with the Sy family whom they have known for decades.
Indeed, the SM Group has been instrumental in the continuing success of the Mirani Group, which operates 70 concession spaces for timepieces, 31 stores for timepieces such as Watch Republic and Times, and 35 stores for top fashion brands including Parfois, Triumph, Etam, Ever New, and Yves Rocher in SM Supermalls.
Mirani, however, started the group’s relationship with SM back in 1974 when as an 18-year-old, he would sell houseware, gift products, and a number of small appliances such as oven toasters to what was then Shoemart.
Over the succeeding years, as the SM Group rapidly expanded, the Mirani group did, too, diversifying from housewares to distribution of one brand after another. Today, it is one of the most formidable groups in the retail and distribution business, thanks in large part to its partnership with the Sys.
“What you learn from Tatang through doing business with Tessie [Sy-Coson] is to think ahead,” said Mirani. “From 1976 to until about 1986, we were all, at that time, short-sighted business people. Nobody knew about transformation, where things were headed after the [Ninoy Aquino] assassination. But then there was this gentleman opening a mall. I remember that, at the time, people were saying Tatang was going to go broke and wouldn’t be able to pay the banks,” he shared.
Tatang certainly proved his naysayers wrong, and the opening of SM North Edsa at that time catapulted him to a higher level, Mirani said. And it has continued to reach higher goals long after Tatang’s passing, taking along partners such as the Mirani Group.

Indeed, it seems likely that the SM Group continues to grow, with the reins firmly in the capable hands of Tatang’s children. The smooth transition of the family and the greater SM family, including tenants and partners, is Tatang’s greatest legacy.
In honor of its 65th anniversary, SM is reconnecting with its tenants who have gained valuable insights from Tatang and have grown their own businesses to pass on to the next generation.
To know more about SM’s 65th-anniversary activities, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow us at @smsupermalls on social media.
OBRA
Globe celebrates Alex Eala’s inspiring run at Miami Open

10:10 p.m. March 28, 2025
Filipina tennis sensation and Globe ambassador Alex Eala once again made the nation proud with her stellar performance at the Miami Open, where she showcased remarkable skill and determination against some of the biggest names in the sport.
The 19-year-old wildcard and world no. 140 delivered a breathtaking run in the tourney, defeating three Grand Slam champions— world no. 25 Jelena Ostapenko, world no. 5 Madison Keys, and world No. 2 Iga Swiatek— before bowing out in a hard-fought semifinal match against American Jessica Pegula on Friday.
Despite an early lead and a valiant comeback in the second set, Eala ultimately bowed out, missing a finals berth but drawing rousing applause from the crowd following a remarkable run.
Alex was the first Filipina to make it as a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) 1000 Semifinalist and the first in the Open Era to beat top-10 players. She is expected to reach her career-best ranking of 75 in the WTA when the rankings get published on Monday, becoming the first Filipina in history to debut in the top 100 of the WTA rankings.
“Alex has once again demonstrated the heart and fighting spirit of the Filipino. Her Miami Open journey is a testament to her relentless drive and unwavering dedication to the sport,” said Ernest Cu, Globe President and CEO. “We are incredibly proud of her achievements and will continue to support her as she inspires young athletes across the country.”
Eala, who has been a Globe ambassador since she was eight, has continuously raised the bar for Philippine tennis, showing that Filipino talent can shine among the world’s best. Her Miami Open campaign cements her status as a rising star in professional tennis and a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
Globe remains committed to continue supporting Eala as she continues her journey on the global tennis stage.
OBRA
Experience a royal first: Warabimochi Kamakura opens at SM Megamall

6:36 p.m. March 11, 2025
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.
OBRA
A Valentine’s weekend of fireworks and music at SM Mall of Asia

6:33 p.m. February 17, 2025
Skies full of lights, hearts filled with love — this is how Valentine’s weekend was celebrated at SM Mall of Asia (MOA) as it once again hosted “The Biggest and Brightest Show on Earth,” the 12th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition (PIPC).


A Valentine’s weekend to remember
Co-presented by SM Development Corporation (SMDC) and Suzuki, SM MOA elevated the Valentine’s weekend to dazzling new heights, leaving audiences mesmerized. The evening began with an extraordinary fireworks exhibition by Platinum Fireworks Inc., enveloping the sky in a cascade of light and color, setting a magical tone for the night.


Lola Amour serenades the crowd
As the perfect Valentine’s Day treat, the crowd was serenaded by a captivating live performance from Lola Amour, whose soulful melodies stirred hearts and created an atmosphere brimming with love and excitement.

Filipino rock band Lola Amour ignites the stage with an electrifying performance.
International fireworks take center stage
The night reached new levels of awe when the first competitor, Team Austria’s steyrFire Feuerwerke, took center stage. Audiences were spellbound as each burst of fireworks harmonized flawlessly with music, creating a breathtaking symphony of light and sound. The stunning showcase was a true spectacle, igniting the sky and the hearts of everyone in attendance, making it the ultimate Valentine’s weekend celebration.

The competition heats up
The 12th PIPC is a showdown of reigning pyromusical champions, with audiences witnessing spectacular performances over five Saturdays from February 15 to March 15.
On February 22, watch France’s Luxfactory Fireworks and China’s Polaris Fireworks, Co. LTD fill the night with colorful and equally unique fireworks displays. Witness USA’s Rozzi Fireworks and the 11th PIPC Champion—Steffes-Ollig Feurwerke of Germany as they open the month of March with a bang.
March 8 is South Korea’s Fassecom and United Kingdom’s Pyrotex Firework’s time to sparkle while Canada’s Royal Pyrotechnie will paint the sky on March 15. Finally, Platinum Fireworks Inc. will close the competition with a grand exhibition.
Ticket information
Get your pass for February 22 to March 8 for only P3,000 for Patron (with dinner), P800 for VIP, P500 for Gold, and P200 for Silver.
Meanwhile, tickets for the last show, March 15, ranges from P3,000 for Patron (with dinner), P1,000 for VIP, P600 for Gold, and P250 for Silver.
The PIPC is brought to you with the support of PlaytimePH. Event sponsors Power Mac Center and CameraHaus are also giving you a chance to win big in their Snap & Win Contest! Capture your favorite PIPC moment and upload it to your Facebook or Instagram. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/smmallofasia.
Get PIPC tickets via the SM Tickets website or at official PIPC ticket booths at SM MOA.
For more information on exciting SM MOA events, follow them on social media.