SM Supermalls Builds Future Champions Through the Philippines’ Largest Bowling Network

From learning the basics to competing nationally: Learn to Bowl and the PBF Youth Cup mark every step of an athlete’s journey

Young athletes pose for a group photo alongside bowling legend Olivia “Bong” Coo during the Learn to Bowl Culminating Day and the inaugural PBF Youth Cup National Finals at SM North EDSA Bowling Center.

Every champion starts somewhere. For dozens of young bowlers, that journey took center stage on May 31 at SM North EDSA, during the Learn to Bowl Culminating Day and the first-ever PBF Youth Cup National Finals.

The event brought together aspiring athletes, parents, coaches, and bowling enthusiasts to celebrate every stage of the sporting journey—from mastering the fundamentals to competing at the national level.

“SM Supermalls wants to be part of an athlete’s journey from day one until they become champions. We are committed to providing spaces and programs where they can hone their skills and embrace the spirit of healthy competition,” said Joseph Francis Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for Sports and Leisure. 

Bowling legend Olivia “Bong” Coo guides a young participant during the Learn to Bowl Culminating Day at SM North EDSA Bowling Center, inspiring the next generation of Filipino bowlers.

The day began with the culmination of the Learn to Bowl program, where participants demonstrated the skills they had developed through weeks of training. Designed to introduce beginners to the sport, the program teaches proper grip, stance, swing, release, and follow-through—while also fostering confidence, discipline, and a genuine love for the game. 

Adding inspiration to the occasion was Olivia “Bong” Coo, a distinguished member of both the World Bowling Hall of Fame and the Philippine Sports Hall of Fame. She joined the sessions and shared valuable insights as the young athletes took their first meaningful steps in the sport. 

A young bowler focuses intently on her next shot during the PBF Youth Cup National Finals at SM North EDSA Bowling Center, embodying discipline, determination, and confidence.

The afternoon shifted to the main event: the PBF Youth Cup National Finals, organized in partnership with the Philippine Bowling Federation. The tournament gathered some of the country’s most promising young bowlers, showcasing what can be achieved when dedication, consistency, and opportunity come together.

The road to the national stage began back in April, with qualifying rounds and center finals held across SM Supermalls bowling centers nationwide. After months—even years—of training, the finalists earned their place through the focus, discipline, and determination required to compete at an elite level. 

Young bowling champions celebrate their victories at the PBF Youth Cup National Finals—proof that success is built through consistent training, hard work, and access to opportunities for growth.

Division Winners:

- 16 Years Old and Below

🥇 Caleb Littaua (Boys) | Eleana Lois Arabit (Girls)

🥈 Chivas Guevarra (Boys) | Sarah Elise Yamsuan (Girls)

🥉 Jairo James Agudo (Boys)

- 17–21 Years Old

🥇 Hansel Alexandrian Ilagan (Boys) | Nuela Surla (Girls)

🥈 Michael Aguilar Jr. (Boys) | Izef Syesha Tipones (Girls)

🥉 Yeshuachim Borricano (Boys) | Nicole Cardino (Girls)

Together, the Learn to Bowl program and the PBF Youth Cup demonstrate that bowling is far more than just a recreational activity. They highlight the sport’s ability to develop essential life skills—including perseverance, focus, confidence, and sportsmanship—while opening doors for young athletes to grow and excel.

This initiative also reflects SM Supermalls’ commitment to making sports accessible to more Filipinos through world-class facilities and development programs under SM Sports & Leisure. With bowling as one of its key platforms for youth development, SM’s nationwide network of bowling centers—under SM Bowling and SM Game Park—provides aspiring athletes with every opportunity to learn, train, compete, and pursue excellence.

“Champions are not born on finals day. They are built through training, consistency, and opportunities to grow,” Silva added. “Through programs like Learn to Bowl and competitions like the PBF Youth Cup, we hope to inspire more young Filipinos to discover their potential and pursue their passion for sports. From learning the basics to competing for titles, SM Supermalls is where winning begins.”

Beyond bowling, these efforts are part of the growing SM Active Hub ecosystem, which encourages Filipinos of all ages to stay active through a wide range of activities—including pickleball, skating, archery, martial arts, and more—all available at SM malls nationwide.

SM continues to create accessible spaces where families, friends, and communities can play, connect, and thrive. Whether it’s a casual game, a new hobby, or a day of active fun, every visit is a chance to “gala to the max.”

Because at SM Active Hub, sports are about more than just winning—they are about discovering passion, building confidence, and creating spaces where every champion can begin their journey.

Raptor Opens New Store at SM City Grand Central

For many Filipinos, passion starts as a hobby, a weekend escape, a creative pursuit, or simply the drive to explore beyond the ordinary. Whether capturing breathtaking landscapes, heading out on a camping trip, embarking on road adventures, or carrying essential tools for work, one need remains constant: reliable gear that can keep up.

This is where Raptor comes in.

The trusted brand, known for its rugged protective cases, outdoor essentials, and adventure-ready equipment, has officially opened its newest store on the 4th Level of SM City Grand Central. This expansion brings its growing lineup of durable, dependable products closer to customers across North Metro Manila.

More than just a retail space, Raptor serves as a hub for explorers, creators, professionals, hobbyists, and outdoor enthusiasts—people who understand the value of protecting the tools and equipment that fuel what they love.

What began as a small shop catering to drone enthusiasts and content creators has grown into a brand built on a simple yet powerful promise: make products that withstand demanding environments, so people can confidently pursue their passions. From safeguarding sensitive camera gear to supporting outdoor adventures, Raptor has expanded its reach across industries while staying true to its core principle: “Protect Your Passion.”

The new store features a carefully curated selection of gear built for both everyday use and extreme conditions.

Product Highlights  

- Protective Cases: Raptor’s Air and Extreme hard cases are engineered to shield cameras, drones, electronics, musical instruments, and other valuables from impact, dust, and harsh weather. These have become trusted companions for photographers, filmmakers, musicians, and collectors alike. 

- Outdoor Essentials: Browse the Arctic and Polar coolers—designed for superior temperature retention—plus Fusion and Twist drinkware built for all-day use on the go. Also available are the Terra camping mat, Perch camping chair, and Rover and Rig stackable storage boxes, perfect for organized and secure travel. 

- Solutions for Professionals: Beyond recreation, Raptor offers durable storage and protection solutions trusted by professionals and creatives who rely on their gear every day.

Every purchase is backed by the Raptor Guarantee: a lifetime service warranty and dedicated customer support, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to lasting quality and reliability. 

Now open at SM City Grand Central, Raptor invites everyone to discover gear built to endure tough conditions—supporting the passions, pursuits, and everyday journeys that define modern lifestyles.

📍 Visit Raptor at the 4th Level, SM City Grand Central.

Converge Bags Top Privacy Award for Children’s Awareness Campaign

Atty. Laurice Esteban-Tuason, Converge Corporate Compliance and Data Protection Officer and Corporate Sustainability Officer, holds up the Kabataang Digital Award at the PAW Awards 2026 in Okada, Manila.

Leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has been recognized as a champion of data privacy, receiving the Kabataang Digital Award from the National Privacy Commission (NPC). The distinction honors the company’s initiative to empower young people to understand and protect their data privacy rights online.

The NPC presents the Privacy Awareness Week (PAW) Awards annually to celebrate efforts that strengthen data privacy awareness and promote responsible handling of personal information across the Philippines. For its 2026 edition, the commission conferred 10 awards to organizations and individuals making significant contributions to advancing data protection nationwide.

The Kabataang Digital Award specifically recognizes programs that empower and safeguard children and youth by fostering digital responsibility, raising privacy awareness, and promoting measures to secure their personal data.

“This recognition reminds us that technology is most meaningful when it serves to protect, empower, and uplift young people and communities. We share this award with everyone who believed in Project PIGLET—short for Privacy Integration through Guided Learning of Emerging Technologies—supported our vision, and worked quietly behind the scenes to bring it to life. Most of all, we dedicate this to the youth: may we continue building a digital space that is safe, responsible, and hopeful for the next generation,” said Atty. Laurice Esteban-Tuason, Corporate Compliance and Data Protection Officer, and Corporate Sustainability Officer, during the ceremony. 

AVP & Head of Data Privacy and Information Security Compliance Eumir Espiritu leads the story-telling session involving the 'space cadets' and their 'space officers' (parents) to children of Brgy. Baclayan, Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro

Launched in 2024 by the Corporate Governance and Data Privacy Group, Project PIGLET is designed to boost digital literacy and privacy awareness among school-aged children.

Tailored for learners as young as seven years old, the program uses interactive storytelling to teach children how to protect their digital identity. Through a space-themed adventure narrative, participants learn about online risks and practical ways to secure their personal information. The initiative also encourages parents and guardians to take an active role in this “digital adventure,” emphasizing that protecting children’s privacy is a shared responsibility. 

Captain Conrad (Converge) seeks the help of intrepid space explorers in navigating the 'internet space' and battles Internet monsters along the way.

Since its launch, Project PIGLET has been implemented in schools across Metro Manila, Mindoro, and Pampanga, as well as among Converge employees and their families.

“Guided by our mission to leverage Tech For Good, we take seriously the responsibility of balancing broad connectivity access with the protection of our users’ data. Through programs like Project PIGLET, we aim to safeguard those most vulnerable online—especially children,” added Esteban-Tuason.

Atty. Esteban-Tuason was previously honored in 2025 as Best Data Privacy Officer (under the General Management and Services sector) by the Information Security Officers Group (ISOG), the Philippines’ leading organization for information security professionals.

Yabu: House of Katsu Brings Its Katsu Mastery to Bulacan with First Central Luzon Branch at SM City Marilao

Yabu: House of Katsu officially opened its first branch in Central Luzon at SM City Marilao. Leading the ribbon-cutting ceremony were Standard Hospitality Group Founder and CEO John Concepcion (2nd from right); Partner and Head of Business Development and Purchasing Gerry Santos (3rd from left); together with the Director of Marketing and Business Unit Head for Yabu, Ippudo, and Elephant Grounds Earl Keh (right). Joining them were SM Regional Leasing Head Anna S. Jabol (3rd from right), SM City Marilao Assistant Mall Manager Janette C. Aguilera (left), and Senior Leasing Manager Crisadel Z. Sapugay (2nd from left).

The Philippines’ pioneer in authentic Japanese katsu opens its doors at SM City Marilao, bringing the beloved House of Katsu experience closer to home for the Bulacan community. 

Yabu: House of Katsu, the Philippines’ pioneer in authentic Japanese katsu, officially opens its first branch in Central Luzon at SM City Marilao on May 26, 2026. For over a decade, the brand has delighted families across Metro Manila—and now, it brings its signature craft and dining experience to Bulacan.

Coming Home to the North 

For years, guests from Bulacan have traveled all the way to Metro Manila to enjoy their favorite katsu. With the opening at SM City Marilao, Yabu is now bringing that beloved experience closer to home. This new location marks Yabu’s first step into Central Luzon, reflecting the brand’s commitment to expanding its reach and serving more Filipino families nationwide. It is also the next exciting chapter in Yabu’s growth, with more locations planned for communities outside the metro. 

The Same Great Katsu, The Same Cherished Rituals

Guests at SM City Marilao can expect the full, authentic Yabu experience: hand-breaded katsu fried to perfection using fresh, house-made panko, served with unlimited Japanese rice, miso soup, crisp cabbage, and fresh fruit.

Central to every visit is the timeless Yabu ritual: guests grind their own sesame seeds, mix in the signature house-made tonkatsu sauce, and savor each bite. This simple, meaningful tradition has made Yabu feel like home for over ten years—and now, it is finally here for Bulacan to enjoy.

The complete Yabu menu is available, featuring classic Katsu Sets, premium Kurobuta, the new Crispy Katsudon, the fan-favorite Tornado Curry, as well as a selection of freshly made sushi rolls, appetizers, and desserts like the popular Tiramisu. 

Designed to Feel Like Home

Built to Yabu’s latest design standards, the SM City Marilao branch showcases the brand’s iconic masu cup walls—crafted after traditional Japanese sake vessels—and a hand-drawn manga wall celebrating the art of katsu-making. Combined with warm, attentive service, the space is thoughtfully designed to make every guest feel welcome the moment they step inside. 

Visit:

Yabu: House of Katsu – SM City Marilao

Ground Level, SM City Marilao, Bulacan

Operating Hours: 

- Weekdays (Monday–Friday): 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

- Weekends (Saturday–Sunday): 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM 

Come home to your favorite katsu. For updates, follow @yabuph on Facebook and Instagram.

Same Same? Think Again: The Adulting Guide to Understanding Your Gut and Choosing the Right Care

Adulting is supposed to mean you’ve got some things figured out: you track expenses, reply to messages with “Noted, thanks,” and even get excited about grocery discounts. But when it comes to digestive issues, many Filipinos still treat every sakit ng tiyan the exact same way. Kabag? Acid? Constipation? Cramps? The usual response: take whatever medicine is on hand and hope for the best.

Here’s the truth: your stomach isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” case. Different symptoms usually have different causes—and treating them all the same way can end up making you feel worse. This World Digestive Health Day, let’s remember: stop leaving your gut health to chance. Instead, start listening to what your body is really telling you. Because true adulting isn’t just about pushing through discomfort—it’s about understanding what’s wrong and choosing the right care for it.

The Reality Check: Same Tummy, Different Problems

Heartburn Isn’t the Same as Kabag

Not every rumbling stomach is just gas. That burning feeling in your upper abdomen or chest is often pangangasim ng sikmura—or heartburn—usually caused by hyperacidity, acid reflux, or indigestion. Since this is acid-related, antacids work best to neutralize excess acid and soothe the burn, rather than leaving you feeling uneasy after every meal.

Constipation Isn’t Just “Walang Tulak”

Constipation is more than just “not going regularly.” Bloating, heaviness, and infrequent bowel movements can be linked to low fiber, dehydration, stress, or daily habits. While drinking water, exercising, and eating better help keep things moving, laxatives can provide relief when your system needs a little extra support.

Lower Belly Cramps Need More Than Just “Tiis”

Lower abdominal pain is not something you just have to endure. If you feel hilab, tightness, or sharp pain around or below your navel—especially if it comes and goes—it may be caused by muscle spasms or even stress. Since the pain comes from tightened muscles, antispasmodics target the source of the discomfort, so you don’t have to keep doubling over while waiting for it to pass.

Sometimes, Your Gut Needs Extra Support

Occasional discomfort isn’t always caused by that extra serving of milk tea—it may mean your gut balance needs a boost. Frequent tummy troubles can be a sign your digestive system needs help. This is where probiotics come in: they support healthy gut flora, improve digestion, and help strengthen your stomach when it’s more sensitive than usual.

When It’s More Than Just Your Stomach

Sometimes, the issue goes beyond digestion. Feeling unusually bloated, tired, or heavy after overindulging can also signal strain on your liver. While occasional discomfort is normal, persistent symptoms should never be ignored. Supporting liver health—and knowing when to seek professional advice—can help prevent bigger issues down the line.

Adulting Means Matching Symptoms to the Right Care

At the end of the day, adulting is no longer about just putting up with pain—it’s about making smarter choices for your health. Instead of treating every stomach issue like it’s the same problem, take the time to understand what you’re feeling and choose the right solution, rather than guessing from your medicine cabinet. 

Quick guide to common remedies:

- For heartburn/hyperacidity: Antacids such as Maalox (1–2 tablets, 4 times daily after meals and at bedtime)

- For constipation: Laxatives such as Dulcolax (1–2 tablets taken at night)

- For cramps/spasms: Antispasmodics such as Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) (1–2 tablets, 3 times daily, for no more than 3 days)

- For gut balance: Probiotics such as Erceflora (1 mini bottle daily for 7 days from the onset of symptoms, or as directed by a doctor)

- For liver support: Supplements such as Essentiale (2 capsules, 3 times daily, or as prescribed)

As World Digestive Health Day reminds us, digestive discomfort is more than just a minor nuisance—it’s your body’s way of asking for attention. The smarter approach is simple: pay attention, match your symptoms to the right care, and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.

Because real self-care isn’t pretending you’re fine while holding your stomach in silence—it’s knowing when your body is speaking and actually listening.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: ERCEFLORA GUT DEFENSE AND ERCEFLORA GUT RESTORE ARE NOT MEDICINES AND MUST NOT BE USED TO TREAT ANY DISEASE.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: ESSENTIALE IS NOT A MEDICINE AND MUST NOT BE USED TO TREAT ANY DISEASE.

IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.

MAT-PH-2600765 / Ver 1.0 / DA 06-2026 / DM 06-2026

Grab and UNIQLO Turn Everyday App Moments Into Wearable Summer Keepsakes

Limited-edition UTme! “Blueprint for a 5-Star Summer” collection lets Filipinos wear their favorite Grab memories—from food cravings to barkada trips—on shirts and totes

This summer, Grab Philippines and UNIQLO invite Filipinos to wear their most beloved everyday moments right on their sleeves.

The two brands have launched “Blueprint for a 5-Star Summer,” a limited-edition UTme! collection that transforms familiar scenes from the Grab app into playful, wearable art. Designs bring to life those shared experiences we all know well: finally satisfying a food craving, receiving a delivery exactly when needed, making spontaneous plans with friends, or simply uttering the iconic line, “Nagpa-Grab ako.” These moments are now available as custom prints on T-shirts and tote bags.

This collaboration marks the first time a superapp has partnered with UNIQLO’s UTme! service in the Philippines. The customizable collection is now available at select UNIQLO Printer Stores nationwide.

Created with a distinct blueprint-inspired aesthetic, the range reimagines everyday Grab experiences as technical diagrams, complete with witty, distinctly Filipino annotations. Each piece maps the small yet meaningful ways Grab fits into daily life—whether through a ride, delivery, meal, or last-minute plan made under the summer sun.

Featured designs include:

- “GUTOM NA AKO: A Technical Breakdown” – A tribute to that satisfying feeling of rewarding yourself with a well-earned treat, annotated with phrases like “Dasurb ko ’to.”

- “PA-GRAB MO NA YAN: A Technical Study” – Captures the coordination and effort behind every successful delivery.

- “A GUIDE TO BOOKING A CHILL RIDE” – Illustrates how features like Group Ride make planning spontaneous outings with friends easier than ever.

- “THE INNER WORKINGS OF NAG-PA GRAB AKO” – Turns the familiar rush of meeting a rider or delivery partner at the gate into a fun, wearable schematic. 

Customers can print these designs on T-shirts and tote bags at participating UNIQLO Printer Stores, including:

UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store, UNIQLO Mall of Asia, UNIQLO BGC High Street, UNIQLO Greenhills, UNIQLO Nuvali Sta. Rosa Roadside Store, UNIQLO Ayala Center Cebu, and UNIQLO Davao Roadside Store.

To make the experience even smoother, Grab is offering users discounted rides to and from participating UNIQLO Roadside and Flagship stores nationwide. The promo offers 10% off rides (capped at ₱30 per ride) with no minimum fare required. Users may redeem the discount up to four times per month, or a total of 36 times throughout the promo period.

The ride promotion runs from April 10, 2026, to February 27, 2027, excluding dates for the UNIQLO Thank You Festival. 

Grab Philippines and UNIQLO will release the collection in two phases; Phase 1 is available until September 30, 2026. Customers may view the full design catalog and list of participating stores via UNIQLO’s official UTme! webpage.

Gold: The New “It Girl” Investment for Younger Generations

Digital gold is the latest trend — and GCrypto makes it easy to own

What do Sabrina Carpenter, matcha lattes, and ballet flats have in common? All had their defining “It Girl” moment: dominating conversations, shaping culture, and quickly becoming everyone’s favorite must-have. But what if investment assets had their own trendsetter? Right now, gold is stepping into that spotlight — and winning over a whole new generation.

Traditionally, gold has been linked to family heirlooms, safety deposit boxes, or the kind of timeless financial advice your tita always gives. It was viewed as reliable, but also somewhat old-fashioned — an asset for later in life, not for young investors just starting out. Yet, a Reuters report shows that as early as 2024, younger generations began turning to gold to make smarter choices amid an unpredictable economy. They are increasingly drawn to its reputation for stability and lasting value.

And it makes perfect sense. Between rising costs, market ups and downs, and the pressure to make savings grow, high-barrier, complex investments are losing their shine. Instead, many new investors prefer options that feel stable, tangible, and easy to understand. Yahoo Finance notes that younger savers now prioritize lower-risk, long-term assets — and gold fits perfectly. It is no longer seen as something “for someday,” but as a practical choice for right now: a proven store of value that fits modern financial goals.

Why Gold Is Making a Comeback: Driven by Economic Uncertainty

Gold’s rising popularity is no accident. According to a 2025 analysis by EBC Financial Group, growing geopolitical tensions, inflation concerns, recession fears, and ongoing market swings have pushed investors back toward trusted “safe haven” assets. Gold’s long-standing role as a protector of wealth during instability has returned to center stage. The result? Stronger global demand and record-high prices, as people seek investments that do not fluctuate wildly with every market shift.

In the Philippines especially, young investors are becoming more intentional about growing their money — not just for quick gains, but to build lasting security. Recent findings from the Q4 2025 TransUnion Consumer Pulse Study show that younger consumers favor simple, low-effort, and practical ways to manage and expand their finances.

The mindset shift is clear: investing is no longer about guessing or chasing trends. It is about planning for stability and future milestones.

This is where gold redefines itself. It is no longer framed as an expensive, out-of-reach luxury, but as something far more accessible than its reputation suggests. What was once considered costly or hard to hold is now seen as a realistic way to build wealth over time — thanks to flexible, low-entry options designed for modern lifestyles.

Enter Digital Gold: The Simple Way to Start

Now, there is digital gold — no visits to vaults, no negotiating at jewelry stores, and no need for huge upfront cash. It is a streamlined way to start small, grow steadily, and invest in a format that matches how people manage money today.

That is exactly what Gold on GCrypto offers: an easy gateway to digital gold, seamlessly integrated into the GCash ecosystem and built as an ideal first step into digital assets.

✅ Start for as low as PHP 200

Begin investing with a small amount and build your holdings through regular, affordable contributions, at your own pace.

✅ Secure and trusted

Offered through GCash, a vetted partner, every unit of digital gold is fully insured, certified, and backed by 100% physical gold stored in high-security vaults in Switzerland.

✅ Full control and visibility

Track your investment anytime, anywhere. Buy or sell 24/7 — no waiting periods, no guesswork, just real-time access.

In short: it is gold, upgraded for modern living.

Younger generations are no longer waiting for the “perfect time” or a big bank balance to invest. They are starting exactly where they are, with what they have. Digital gold captures that spirit: practical, accessible, and far less intimidating than traditional methods.

Every era has its defining trend. For young investors navigating an uncertain economy, gold is having its moment — not as an unattainable luxury, but as an investment that finally meets people where they are.

Ready to own digital gold?

Open the GCash app, go to Invest, then select GCrypto > Gold to start building your portfolio. Download GCash from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.

Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!