Dr. Kong Opens at SM City Grand Central: Step into Comfort and Foot Health

Dr. Kong Shoes, the trusted Hong Kong brand that has been championing foot health since 1999, has officially opened its doors at SM City Grand Central, bringing comfort, care, and style to shoppers of all ages. Known for combining ergonomic innovation with fashionable designs, Dr. Kong is here to make every step healthier, whether you are strolling through the mall, hustling at work, or enjoying a weekend out.

More than just footwear, Dr. Kong offers solutions for every foot type and lifestyle. Each pair is designed with carefully thought-out features from hard heel counters that stabilize and align the foot, to soft padded collars that prevent blisters, breathable materials for all-day freshness, and durable outsoles with excellent traction for safety. Even their anti-callus round toe design works quietly to keep your feet in their best shape.

For those who need extra support, Dr. Kong’s orthopedic footbeds and adjustable features ensure a customized fit. This is perfect for anyone with flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, or simply those who spend long hours on their feet. It is footwear that looks good while keeping your feet and your posture in prime condition.

Whether you are a busy professional, a student, a parent chasing after kids, or a grandparent enjoying your daily walks, Dr. Kong makes every step feel better. Now, shoppers at SM City Grand Central can find the perfect pair that blends comfort, durability, and style because healthy steps mean a healthier, happier you.

Visit Dr. Kong at the 3rd level of SM City Grand Central. 

SM CAMANAVA Malls Extend Helping Hand to Flood Victims in Valenzuela and Caloocan

Amid the heavy toll left by Typhoon Crising, Dante, Emong, and the relentless southwest monsoon, SM malls in Valenzuela, Sangandaan, and Grand Central have intensified their relief efforts, reaching thousands of residents across flood-stricken communities in Valenzuela and Caloocan. 

Under SM Foundation Inc.’s Operations Tulong Express, SM City Valenzuela, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Grand Central, together with SM Markets and in close coordination with local government units, distributed over 1,000 Kalinga Packs containing food and essential items to affected families. 

SM Foundation Inc., through SM City Valenzuela focuses its outreach on the hardest-hit areas in Valenzuela City. Present during SM Foundation Inc.’s Operations Tulong Express is Valenzuela Mayor Wes Gatchalian

SM City Valenzuela partners with barangay officials and local government unit for SM Foundation Inc.’s Operations Tulong Express

SM City Valenzuela led one of the large-scale relief operations, reaching 500 families across flood-prone barangays, including Rincon, Pasolo, Caloong, Mabolo, Bisig, Tagalag, Bakangkas, Wawang Pulo, Polo, Palasan, and Arkong Bato. Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian was present during the relief operations, reinforcing a strong public-private partnership that enabled swift distribution of Kalinga packs. 

A heartwarming moment as an all-smiles senior citizen receives a much-needed relief pack from SM Center Sangandaan. 

Volunteers from SM Center Sangandaan brave narrow, flooded alleys to distribute aid directly to households in Barangays 2 and 4.

In the heavily inundated districts of Caloocan, SM Center Sangandaan took a more personalized approach by conducting door-to-door relief distribution in Barangays 2 and 4, areas where many elderly residents and vulnerable households were unable to leave their homes. A total of 300 packs were distributed in close coordination with local rescue teams and barangay officials.

Families from Barangay 88 welcome much-needed aid from SM City Grand Central and SM Foundation.

SM City Grand Central focuses its relief efforts on flood-stricken areas in Caloocan City.

Meanwhile, SM City Grand Central extended its outreach to Barangay 88 in Caloocan, providing 200 Kalinga Packs to affected families in collaboration with local leaders and local emergency units.

Launched as a flagship disaster response initiative of SM Foundation, Operations Tulong Express is carried out in partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Markets to provide immediate aid to communities during natural calamities and emergencies.

SM Grand Central Food Court: Asian Food Adventure Awaits! (KyuKyu Ramen & Thaiwadee)

There is something thrilling about discovering a new food spot, especially when it transports your taste buds across Asia without ever leaving the city. SM City Grand Central’s Foodcourt just turned into a culinary gateway, where you can now hop from the cozy ramen alleys of Japan to the vibrant street markets of Thailand. With the arrival of KyuKyu Ramen 99 and Thaiwadee, your cravings are about to go on a flavorful adventure. 

SLURP YOUR WAY TO JAPAN WITH KYUKYU RAMEN 99 

There is a certain kind of magic in a hot bowl of ramen. It is comforting, soul-warming and, when done right, deeply satisfying. At KyuKyu Ramen 99, that magic comes at just Php. 99. Yes, you read that right, authentic-tasting ramen for less than a hundred pesos!

Tucked among the bustling stalls of the Foodcourt, KyuKyu Ramen 99 brings the umami straight to Caloocan. Their Tonkotsu Ramen is everything you'd crave: a creamy, milky pork broth, firm noodles, and that nostalgic warmth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Looking for heat? The Spicy Ichiban Ramen brings the fire with a bold, pleasant kick. Feeling curious? The Cheesy Tonkotsu Ramen surprises with gooey, melted cheese blending beautifully with the rich broth. And for those chasing layers of depth, the Premium Umami Ramen is earthy, savory, and deeply satisfying.

But the ramen isn’t the only thing worth lining up for. Their Gyoza is perfectly crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside. Beef Gyudon offers a sweet savory beef bowl that’s hard to resist, while the Chicken Teriyaki gives you tender slices glazed in that signature sauce you’ll probably dream about later.

SAWADEE KA TO THAIWADEE 

Just a few steps away, Thaiwadee calls out with the tang of tamarind and the whisper of lemongrass. Inspired by the electric street food scenes of Thailand, this new stop brings a burst of sanuk (fun) to your usual SM Foodcourt fare.

Start your journey with their Pad Thai—chewy rice noodles stir-fried in tamarind sauce, topped with crushed peanuts and fresh lime. Then dive into a steaming bowl of Tom Yum Goong, a spicy-sour soup that instantly awakens your senses. Every spoonful feels like it came straight from a Bangkok roadside stall.

For dessert, the Mango Sticky Rice offers a fragrant, creamy treat that feels like a gentle hug. And to cool down, don’t miss their Thai Milk Tea or Tamarind Iced Tea—refreshing, flavorful, and perfect after a spicy meal.

SM Foodcourt in Grand Central isn’t just a pit stop anymore—it’s a destination. Whether you’re shopping, meeting friends, or simply craving flavors beyond the usual, your next great meal awaits here. And with Kyu Kyu Ramen 99 and Thaiwadee now in the mix, your taste buds are officially on tour.

SM Malls in Sangandaan, Grand Central, and Valenzuela Sharpen Quake Preparedness

 

Members of SM Center Sangandaan’s Emergency Response Group (ERG) lead coordinated evacuation, rescue, medical, and communication operations during the nationwide earthquake drill.

SM malls in Sangandaan, Grand Central, and Valenzuela reinforced their commitment to disaster preparedness by joining the 2nd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) held on Thursday morning. The drill was staged before regular mall hours to ensure the safety of tenants and employees while maintaining uninterrupted mall operations.

At exactly 9:00 a.m., a loud siren echoed through SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela, signaling the start of the nationwide exercise. Tenants and employees immediately followed standard protocols, executing the “duck, cover, and hold” maneuver in response to the simulated 7.2 magnitude earthquake.

Swift Response. Emergency responders from SM Center Sangandaan rush to aid a simulated trauma victim during the 2nd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill, demonstrating the mall's readiness to handle real-life seismic emergencies. 

Employees at SM City Valenzuela perform the "duck, cover, and hold" maneuver during the earthquake drill, part of nationwide efforts to instill safety habits in the event of a seismic shock.

ERG teams at SM City Valenzuela carry out lifelike emergency procedures—from swift evacuation to medical response—during the scenario-based earthquake simulation, ensuring operational preparedness in high-stakes situations

First responders at SM City Grand Central deliver immediate medical assistance to a mock casualty as part of the comprehensive earthquake simulation, aligned with the government's call for heightened preparedness nationwide. 

The earthquake drill went beyond routine exercises, incorporating evacuation and rescue simulations designed to test the capabilities of each mall’s Emergency Response Group (ERG). These included first aid response and complex rescue scenarios to ensure swift, coordinated action in the event of a real disaster.

Emergency responders at SM City Grand Central spearhead the mall’s evacuation, rescue, and medical response during the national simultaneous earthquake drill. 

Each mall also conducted refresher training on earthquake preparedness for staff, tenants, and affiliates. Sessions covered worst-case scenarios, evacuation routes, and basic life-saving techniques, strengthening the culture of readiness across all departments.

With the increasing frequency of seismic events in the region, the earthquake drill forms part of SM’s broader commitment to safety and resilience in partnership with Local Government and National agencies.

SM Malls in Grand Central, Sangandaan, and Valenzuela Boost Public Schools’ Readiness for SY 2025–2026

 

SM City Grand Central extends support to local schools through the donation of hygiene kits, basic school supplies, cleaning materials, and gardening tools, reinforcing efforts toward campus cleanliness and greening initiatives.

With just days before the school year officially begins on June 16, volunteers from SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela rolled up their sleeves to take part in the Department of Education’s Brigada Eskwela 2025, rallying under this year’s theme “Sama-Sama Para Sa Bayang Bumabasa.”

The joint initiative brought together SM employees and community partners in a wide-scale effort to revitalize public schools in Caloocan and Valenzuela—making campuses safer, cleaner, and more welcoming for thousands of students.

Despite the persistent rain, the enthusiasm of volunteers never waned, the annual clean-up and repair initiative pushed through, improving school facilities in key areas of North Metro Manila.

In Caloocan City, the team from SM City Grand Central brought life back to Bagong Barrio Elementary School, repainting walls and tidying up long-neglected hallways. Beyond beautification, the mall also turned over hygiene kits, basic school supplies, cleaning materials, and gardening tools to support the school’s greening and cleanliness drives.

Employees from SM City Valenzuela lend a helping hand during Brigada Eskwela, joining school rehabilitation efforts ahead of class resumption.

Embracing the true spirit of bayanihan, SM City Grand Central employees actively participated in sprucing up school facilities and cleaning classrooms in time for the new academic year.

An SM City Valenzuela volunteer flashes a smile while taking part in this year’s Brigada Eskwela, showcasing the mall’s commitment to community service.

Just a few kilometers away, SM Center Sangandaan focused its efforts on the Kasarinlan Elementary School, restoring worn-out classrooms and facilities. The volunteer group not only completed vital repair work but also delivered much-needed supplies for continued upkeep, including paint, brushes, and disinfecting materials.

SM Center Sangandaan volunteers sweep and clear dried leaves at Kasarinlan Elementary School in Caloocan during Brigada Eskwela.

Volunteers from SM City Grand Central repaint school walls in preparation for a new mural, helping create a vibrant and inspiring space for learners.

Simultaneously, SM City Valenzuela brought new life to Caruhatan West Elementary School. The mall’s team worked on repainting classroom interiors, repairing jalousie windows, sanitizing comfort rooms, and dusting off chairs and tables — ensuring that each corner of the campus was ready for another productive school year.

The Brigada Eskwela effort was spearheaded by SM Supermalls’ Human Resources Department, in collaboration with SM Cares, the company’s corporate social responsibility arm. Beyond sprucing up classrooms, the initiative underscores SM’s belief in shared responsibility for shaping learning environments where students can thrive.

A Feast Fit For Queens: Savor Empowering Flavors This Women's Month at SM

This Women’s Month, it’s time to dine like the queens we are—bold, vibrant, and unstoppable! Whether you’re fueling ambition, indulging in well-deserved sweetness, or making mindful choices for a healthier glow, SM Supermalls has a table set just for you. Gather your besties, treat yourself, and savor every bite of empowerment with these must-try flavors:  

SAVOR HEARTY MEALS THAT FUEL AMBITION 

For the go-getters who mean business—both in life and at the dining table—SM has dining spots to match your drive. Power through your day with a satisfying meal at Botejyu in SM City Valenzuela, or take a well-deserved break at Banapple in SM City Grand Central, where good food meets great conversations.

SWEET TREATS THAT SPARK JOY 

No celebration is complete without a little indulgence! Satisfy your sweet tooth at Famous Belgian Waffle in SM Center Sangandaan, where golden, crisp waffles come oozing with luscious fillings—perfect for that mid-day pick-me-up. Craving something more local? BBK Bibingka Coffee, also in SM Center Sangandaan, elevates the classic bibingka with a modern twist, pairing it with coffee that’s as strong as the women we celebrate.  

HEALTHY CHOICES THAT KEEP YOU GLOWING  

Wellness queens, we see you! Stay on top of your game with fresh and nutritious options at SaladStop! in SM City Grand Central, where every bowl is packed with vibrant greens, lean proteins, and bold flavors. Need something light yet satisfying? Subway in SM City Grand Central serves up customizable sandwiches and wraps that keep you feeling good while on the go.  

And because no Women’s Month feast is complete without a photo op, don’t forget to strike a pose at SM’s Women’s Month Instagram spot! Snap a groupie with your besties, capture your glowing smiles, and make every moment count.  

This month, eat well, celebrate loud, and own your crown—only at SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela! 

Love is in the Air (and at SM!) This Valentine's Day

Love is in full bloom, and SM Supermalls is making sure that this Valentine’s season is filled with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a fun outing with friends, or a little self-love session, SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela have curated the perfect experiences for you. From unique date ideas to thoughtful gifts, here’s your ultimate guide to make your heart skip a beat. 

A PICTURE-PERFECT DATE. Capture love in its most beautiful form with Instagram-worthy photo spots around the malls. Whether it’s a dreamy love-themed installation or a scenic backdrop, these picture-perfect corners make every moment worth remembering. For an added romantic touch, pick up a bouquet of fresh flowers from SM’s Love Market or surprise your special someone with a birthstone necklace from Diagold in SM City Grand Central or an elegant locket from SM City Valenzuela’s Tala By Kyla or cute earrings from SM Center Sangandaan’s Unisilver. 

A CINEMATIC LOVE STORY. Take your classic movie date up a notch by watching the latest blockbuster or a timeless romantic flick at SM Cinema. Cozy up with a tub of popcorn, sip on your favorite drinks, and let the silver screen set the mood. Whether you're watching with your significant other, best friend, or even flying solo, a trip to the cinema never goes out of style.  After the movie, surprise your date with a “photo booth sess” at SM City Grand Central’s Hello Photo PH and SM Center Sangandaan’s Oldmoon Photography Studio to hold a snapshot of your night together. 

TABLE FOR TWO (OR MORE). Food is the universal love language, and SM’s wide selection of restaurants is ready to serve up delicious Valentine’s exclusives. Whether it’s a candlelit dinner, a casual brunch, or an indulgent dessert run, there’s something for every kind of foodie couple.  

LIGHTS, MUSIC, LOVE. Nothing sets the mood like live music. SM’s LOVE Bops will serenade shoppers with romantic melodies performed by talented local artists. Sit back, enjoy the music, and let the love songs create a soundtrack for your Valentine’s celebration.  Make Valentine’s even sweeter with a limited-edition cake from Mary Grace Café at SM City Valenzuela or Red Ribbon at SM Center Sangandaan. For a fun twist, treat your loved one to heart-shaped donuts from Krispy Kreme at SM City Grand Central!

CUPID’S ARTISTRY: DIY LOVE TOKENS. Nothing says “I love you” like a heartfelt, handmade gift! This Valentine’s, unleash your creativity at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan’s Love Lab with workshops designed for every kind of love. Craft a blooming bouquet at the Floristry Workshop (Feb 9, SM Grand Central), paint a wine glass for your bestie at the Galentines Art Date (Feb 14, SM Grand Central), or design a stylish Love Cap for Single’s Day (Feb 15, SM Valenzuela). Couples can get crafty with Tote Bag Making (Feb 8, SM Valenzuela) or a Date Craft session (Feb 8, SM Sangandaan), while moms and kids can bond over Bento Making (Feb 14, SM Valenzuela). Whether for your sweetheart, your best friend, or yourself, these DIY love tokens prove that it’s the thought—and effort—that truly count!

ME, MYSELF, AND I: A SELF-LOVE AFFAIR. Love isn’t just about couples—celebrate yourself, too! Take advantage of SM’s Valentine’s promotions for some much-needed self-care. Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day, a wardrobe refresh, or a solo dinner with your favorite meal. Because the best love starts with self-love, a signature fragrance from The SM Store’s Beauty Section is also the perfect finishing touch. 

PAWS AND KISSES: A FURRY VALENTINE’S DATE. Who says Valentine’s is only for humans? Treat your furry friend to a paw-some date or FURst date on February 8 at SM City Grand Central and February 9 at SM City Valenzuela and SM Center Sangandaan! Let them run free, meet new furry pals, and even pose for adorable pet portraits. Don’t forget to pamper your pet with stylish accessories or gourmet pet treats available at SM City Grand Central’s Pet Express. Because love—especially for our fur babies—deserves to be spoiled.  

Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a fun day out with friends, or a solo adventure, SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela have everything you need to make Valentine’s Day unforgettable. Mark your calendars and celebrate love in full color at SM!  

Bears of Joy Bring Holiday Cheer to Children with Special Needs in SM Valenzuela & SM Grand Central

SM City Valenzuela volunteer proudly hands an SM Bear of Joy to a child with disability. The mall contributed 700 bears, matched by SM City Grand Central, totaling 1,400 plush toys for children with special needs and PWDs.

In a season marked by joy and giving, SM Malls in Grand Central and Valenzuela closed 2024 on a heartwarming note with their annual Bears of Joy donation, bringing smiles to children with special needs and persons with disabilities. The campaign, which underscores SM’s commitment to community upliftment, saw the donation of 1,400 plush toys to various beneficiaries across Caloocan and Valenzuela.

SM City Valenzuela spearheaded the effort, contributing 700 bears, while SM City Grand Central added 700 to the tally. The plushies—adorable oval-shaped companions inspired by the viral Squishmallow trend—were distributed to beneficiaries such as Valenzuela’s Persons with Disability Affairs Office and the Alliance of PWD in Caloocan City Inc.

An SM volunteer lights up the day of a child with disability by gifting an SM Bear of Joy. SM City Valenzuela and SM City Grand Central ended the year on a heartwarming note, donating 1,400 plush toys to children with special needs and persons with disabilities.

SM City Grand Central Mall Manager Von Aaron Tan personally hands an SM Bear of Joy to a person with special needs. The annual Bears of Joy initiative brought smiles to 1,400 recipients, as SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela shared the gift of giving to the PWD community.

For the children who received them, the Bears of Joy were more than just toys—they became symbols of hope and love. Each plushie represents the spirit of the holiday season and the Filipino tradition of bayanihan, fostering a sense of belonging and care for the less privileged.

The initiative was spearheaded by SM Cares, Toy Kingdom, and SM Supermalls, reinforcing the collective power of compassion. The program also reflects the profound impact of collective goodwill, proving that small gestures of kindness can leave lasting imprints on the lives of those who need it most.

SM's ChriSMiles 2024: Spreading Holiday Cheer to Over 100 Children in Caloocan and Valenzuela

A child embraced SM City Grand Central Mall Manager Alpha Hernandez, beaming with joy as they received gifts during SM City Grand Central and SM Center Sangandaan’s ChriSMiles event.

SM Supermalls brought the magic of Christmas to over 100 underprivileged children in Caloocan and Valenzuela cities through its annual ChriSMiles initiative.  Just days before Christmas, SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela joined forces to create unforgettable holiday memories for children and their families.

SM City Grand Central and SM Center Sangandaan partnered with Bountiful Children’s Foundation Philippines to bring joyful holiday memories to 50 children from Brgy. 176, Bagong Silang, North Caloocan.

With big smiles, children proudly raised their Bears of Joy plushies during SM City Grand Central and SM Center Sangandaan’s ChriSMiles celebration.

In Caloocan, a partnership with Bountiful Children’s Foundation Philippines resulted in a heartwarming celebration for 50 children from Barangay 176, Bagong Silang.  The children, aged 1 to 5, enjoyed a festive meal, received hygiene kits, and delighted in plush toys, thanks to the generosity of SM employees and tenant partners like Fantasy World and Tom’s World.

Meanwhile, in Valenzuela, SM City Valenzuela spread holiday cheer among the children of its own janitorial and security personnel.  The children experienced the joy of free play at Kidzoona, received gifts, and shared a special Christmas meal with their families.

SM City Valenzuela Assistant Mall Manager Kristine Joyce Pimentel hands out loot bags and toys, bringing smiles to all during the ChriSMiles event. 

Children proudly display their Bears of Joy at the Valenzuela ChriSMiles event.

ChriSMiles is more than just gifts and meals; it's about making children feel loved and celebrated during the holiday season.  The initiative highlights the dedication of SM employees who generously contributed both time and resources to make this event possible.

Children enjoyed hours of fun and free play at Kidzoona during SM City Valenzuela’s ChriSMiles event.

Shella Marie Vito, Senior Human Resources Manager, shared, "This event truly embodies the spirit of Christmas – giving and bringing joy to those who need it most.  We're incredibly grateful for the support from our employees and partners; their kindness creates a lasting impact."

ChriSMiles underscores SM Supermalls' commitment to community and compassion, demonstrating that the true joy of Christmas lies in sharing with others.  The laughter of the children and the kindness of the volunteers serve as a beacon of hope and goodwill, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season.