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PLDT, Smart, MVPSF establish world-class training center for Filipino gymnasts

March 12, 2022 9:13 p.m.

PLDT, its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), and the MVP Sports Foundation (MVPSF) ramp up their support for Filipino athletes, unveiling recently a world-class training facility for gymnasts.

Situated within the Intramuros complex in Manila, the 2,300-square meter MVPSF Gymnastics Center complex will be equipped to train national athletes in artistic, aerobic, and trampoline gymnastics. A tall tent outside of the building will also be erected for the rhythmic gymnastics team.

It will also house the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) office, conference rooms, lounge, lockers, coaches’ rooms, a clinic, a café, and even a meditation area for the well-being of the athletes while training.

“Our investments in the country’s sports development bear fruit when we witness our athletes give their best while representing the Philippines in the global arena. The victories they achieve and the pride they give our country are priceless,” said sports patron and PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan. Pangilinan is also Chairman and Trustee of the MVPSF.

“We at PLDT and Smart have always believed in the importance of sports in shaping individuals and communities for the better. This facility is just one our many efforts to ensure that Filipino athletes get the best support that we can possibly provide as they bring glory to our country,” said Alfredo S. Panlilio, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications President and CEO, MVPSF President and Trustee, and Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) First Vice-President.

For PLDT and Smart Head of Sports and MVPSF Executive Director Jude Turcuato, this is also a way for the telco to contribute to nation-building. “Our mission is to be the driving force in the development of world-class Filipino sports champions. We want to foster a culture of winning using the grassroots programs that we’ve established in various sporting events.”

International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) President Morinari Watanabe, GAP President Cynthia Carrion, Philippine Sports Commission Commissioner Celia Kiram, former President and House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Japanese Embassy Deputy Chief in Mission Yasushi Yamamoto, POC Deputy Secretary-General Carl Sambrano, International Olympic Committee Executive Board Member Mikee Conjuanco-Jaworski, and other guests witnessed the inauguration of the facility.

“The training of our athletes has been a challenge during this pandemic, so we moved heaven and earth to find them a new home. We are grateful to the MVPSF and the PSC for making this new facility a reality for our gymnasts,” Carrion said. 

World gymnastics champion Caloy Yulo was also present to mark the special event. “Naging challenge para sa aming team na wala silang mapag-praktisan noong pandemic. Nagpapasalamat po ako nang sobra dahil tinulungan nila kami,” Yulo said.

The MVPSF has been supporting Yulo’s journey since 2017. Yulo is now back in Japan to train for upcoming games in Hanoi, Doha, Hangzhou, and England. All eyes are also on the promising Filipino athlete for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.

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Join the league of retail leaders: Why top brands call SM home

7:47 p.m. September 30, 2034

As consumer expectations evolve, SM Supermalls continues to lead the way, not just in expansion but in completely reimagining the mall experience. Partnering with global and local industry leaders, SM creates an unmatched platform for brands to thrive in the competitive Philippine retail market.

Why Brands Choose SM: The Perfect Partnership for Growth

More than just a shopping destination, SM Supermalls offers retailers strategic advantages that extend beyond leasing space. With millions of visitors each year and a comprehensive approach to marketing and customer engagement, SM gives brands the tools they need to succeed. Here’s why top global and homegrown retailers prefer SM:

  1. Unmatched Visibility and Foot Traffic
    SM Supermalls are strategically located in key cities across the Philippines, ensuring high foot traffic and exposure to diverse consumer demographics. For brands looking to break into the Filipino market, this visibility is critical for building awareness and driving sales.
  • Integrated Marketing Support
    SM partners benefit from extensive marketing initiatives, including in-mall promotions, digital innovations, and social media campaigns that extend the reach of new store openings, product launches, and events. SM ensures that each new partner gets the spotlight it deserves.
  • A Hub for Innovation and Global Firsts
    From first-in-the-country experiences to unique retail concepts, SM consistently attracts pioneering brands that shape the future of retail. For example, the first Disney Store in the Philippines has opened its doors at SM Mall of Asia, providing an immersive retail experience for families.  In the culinary space, two viral sensations have chosen SM to be their first home in the country. Burger & Lobster, a London-based favorite, is opening soon at SM Aura, offering an exciting new dining experience. Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyuhas fired up its stone grills, bringing authentic beef-style katsu to Filipinos at SM Mall of Asia.
  • Collaborative Business Ecosystem
    SM Supermalls offer more than just retail space—they foster an ecosystem where businesses can thrive. SM provides brands access to a robust support network, enabling collaborations, strategic partnerships, and a future-focused approach to business growth.

What’s New at SM? Experience the Best, First

SM’s dynamic retail portfolio continues to grow, bringing globally and locally loved brands to Filipino consumers. Some of the latest additions include:

●      Disney Store at SM Mall of Asia – The first of its kind in the country.

●      Burger & Lobster at SM Aura – A world-renowned London eatery.

●      Venchi at SM Podium – Italy’s famous chocolatier and gelateria.

●      Allbirds at SM Megamall – Opened its first store at SM.

●      National Geographic Store at SM Aura – The first in the Philippines.

●      Maison Margiela, Le Labo, Aesop, and Victoria’s Secret at SM Mall of Asia – Top luxury and lifestyle brands.

●      Sunnies World at SM Mall of Asia  – An experiential concept store of the local cult favorite brand.

These brands have chosen SM for the strategic opportunity to grow their presence in the Philippines, where they can access an ever-growing and diverse consumer base.

Partner with SM: The Future of Retail Awaits

There’s more to come at SM Supermalls as we continue to push the boundaries of retail, transforming our malls into thriving communities where businesses and consumers alike can grow. Whether through flagship stores, exclusive partnerships, or innovative retail concepts, SM is the partner of choice for brands that want to make an impact in the Philippine market.

Stay connected with SM Supermalls and discover more about how we’re reshaping the future of retail. Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow us on @SMSupermalls for exclusive previews and updates.

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Paradise Dynasty now open at Greenbelt 5

September 29, 2024

Paradise Dynasty’s #WorldsFamous 8 colored Xiao Long Bao Now Open at Greenbelt 5, 3rd Level, Ayala Center, San Lorenzo, Makati City.

Follow their socials:

Social media accounts:

fb: @paradisedynastyph

IG: @paradisedynastyph

Web: http://paradisedynasty.ph

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Jordan Brand’s New Tatum 3 delivers lightweight feel, adaptable performance

1:41 p.m. September 25, 2024

A gold medal. A championship ring. A hunger for more.

After winning on the greatest stages in the game this summer, Jayson Tatum is back for another NBA season — ready to rise to the occasion in his latest signature shoe, the Jordan Tatum 3.

The new, court-ready silhouette has all the features fit for a champion while delivering unmatched style and continuing the Tatum series’ reign as the lightest in the Jordan Brand basketball collection.

“I don’t take having a signature shoe for granted,” Jayson says. “I’m grateful to be in a position where I can co-create with Jordan Brand and have fans connect with me through my shoe. My favorite part of the 3s is the way they take on color, so my hope is that we inspire and energize a lot of people through the colorway storytelling.”

The Tatum 3 is the result of Jayson’s extensive collaboration with Jordan Brand’s footwear designers, who met his needs with a shoe that feels broken in right out of the box, and adapts to the foot without restrictions or pressure. A new upper incorporates insights from athletes’ on-court moves in the Nike Sport Research Lab, layering materials where they matter most for power and comfort, creating a supportive, conforming fit without feeling bulky or stiff. 

Cushlon 3.0 foam and a Zoom Air insert work alongside the upper’s firm frame to promote lateral movements that feel smooth and secure, and a herringbone traction pattern propels a superior first step and quick cut while helping hoopers stop on a dime.

The smoothness of Jayson’s play and his commitment to his family are built into the Tatum 3, reflected in fluid lines that represent his uninterrupted approach to the game and the foundation of his family tree. Like the Tatum 2, the name of Jayson’s son, Deuce, is featured on the inside of the tongue, opposite his signature JT logo, and his number 0 is included on the heel along with unique sayings on the heel tabs, specific to each colorway. His popular “Find A Way” quote from his 2023 “humbly” interview is also included on the medial side of the shoe.

The launch colorway, Welcome to the Garden, showcases growth in all areas of Jayson’s life — his family, his game and his pursuit of greatness — in a floral pattern that nods to his home and personal garden, where he’s surrounded by family, friends and loved ones.

Jayson first unveiled the new silhouette via the NBA 2K25 cover and during his summer tour of China, where he teamed up with fellow Jordan Brand athletes Luka Dončić, Zion Williamson and Paolo Banchero to connect with local youth and foster their love for the game.

The Tatum 3 will be available globally on jordan.com and select retailers October 10. 

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