Satisfy Your Cravings: Comfort Food & More at SM Foodcourt

It's often said that "food is the ultimate equalizer; it can comfort, heal, spark memories, or bring people together." It's hard to argue with that! There are definitely days—if not every day—when you just need the right taste to match your mood or moment. Sometimes it's something savory, other days it's saucy, fried, or just familiar enough to truly make your day. 

SM Foodcourt at SM City Marilao always has something to satisfy your food palate

SM Foodcourt in SM City Baliwag is the perfect place for memorable family dinners and fun group gatherings

So, where do you go for that perfect bite, whatever your mood or craving? Look no further than your most loved mall, SM! Here are four reliable spots at SM Foodcourt in SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag that consistently hit the spot, maximizing your dining experience.

SM Foodcourt: Your Go-To for Every Craving

1. Salo: Where Every Bite Feels Like Home 

Lechon Belly, Photo courtesy of Salo

Sometimes, a craving is more than just about food; it’s about the cozy warmth of home. Salo delivers exactly that. With branches in most SM Foodcourts, it’s a favorite among balikbayans and locals seeking authentic Filipino flavors. Every mouthful of Salo’s dishes is a heartwarming reminder of family gatherings, holidays, and celebrations. Their Lechon Belly is an absolute must-try—crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside, it’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you home.

2. Sizzling Plate: Hot Plates, Every Time You Need It 

Porterhouse Steak, Photo courtesy of Sizzling Plate

Some days call for a little heat and a lot of fun, and the aromatic, sizzling plate comes through like a true friend. A familiar favorite found in most SM Foodcourt branches, Sizzling Plate guarantees a piping-hot meal every time. Perfectly seasoned meat, smothered in rich, savory gravy, served with fragrant rice and fresh vegetables, creates a satisfying sizzling meal—a true feast of flavor and memories. 

3. Takoyadon: Japanese Flavors, No Passport Required 

Takoyaki, photo courtesy of Takoyadon

When you’re in the mood for Japanese cuisine and good company, Takoyadon is a solid pick that won’t give you jetlag! Found in select SM Food Hall branches, it offers bite-sized Japanese eats that are flavor-packed and easy on the wallet. From classic Takoyaki and Yakisoba to hearty Donburi and Udon, you and your friends can enjoy a casual bite while catching up—with the bonus of zero airfare!

4. Mr. Kimbob: Bibimbap For The Soul 

Bibimbob, Photo courtesy of Mr. Kimbob

Sometimes comfort comes in a warm, hearty bowl of Bibimbap, like the beloved Bibimbob from Mr. Kimbob, which hits all the right notes. Warm rice, fresh vegetables, savory chicken, beef, or pork, and a rich sauce all stirred together create a bowl of pure comfort. It’s the kind of food that feels like a warm hug. You can find Mr. Kimbob branches in most SM Foodcourts.

Crown Asia Unveils Urban Expressions of Upscale Living in the South with Arché: The Origin of Aspiration

Arché, an immersive presentation of the latest Crown Asia developments in South Luzon, concluded with a ceremonial toast from Vista Land COO Mary Lee S. Sadiasa, joined by Crown Asia Group Head Romeo Sabater, Officers-in-Charge Shatriya Paredes and Ryan Tensuan, and Accounting Head Kim Manalaysay. 

 

Crown Asia, the foremost builder of themed residential developments across the archipelago, recently introduced Arché: The Origin of Aspiration, The Opulence of Address. This immersive presentation offered a compelling insight into how communities are conceived and brought into being in South Luzon. 

The avant-garde gathering convened company executives, business partners, and esteemed guests in a choreographed setting. Enhanced by a circular LED display and projection mapping, the venue transformed into a vivid canvas where light, layout, and layered visuals converged to narrate how refined residences are envisioned and experienced. 

The gathering convened esteemed guests in a setting enhanced by circular LED display and projection mapping, turning the venue into a vivid canvas, where layered visuals converged to narrate how refined residences are envisioned and experienced.

Crown Asia Group Head Romeo S. Sabater welcomed distinguished guests to Arché: The Origin of Aspiration, The Opulence of Address, a grand launch of the housing brand’s four newest themed residential developments in South Luzon. 

The event commenced with an elegant cocktail reception, followed by a series of scenic curations guided by entrepreneur and actress Anne Gauthier. A multi-sensory sequence unfolded, exploring the elements of land, earth, air, and water—each representing a dimension of community distinction. Accompanied by outstanding performances from the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and Ballet Manila, the event achieved a measured balance of structure and sensation, reinforcing the interplay between architecture and atmosphere. 

Outstanding performances by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and Ballet Manila captivated the audience, with actress-entrepreneur Anne Gauthier hosting the grand launch. 

Introducing Crown Asia’s Newest Communities in South Luzon 

Crown Asia Marketing Leads Angelica Coral, Tricia Melarpis, Andrea Mijares, and Ace Simbahan unveiled Crown Asia’s latest developments: Verdalia in Batangas, Pinewood in Tagaytay, Serenza in Silang, and Ponticelli Groves in Bacoor City. 

At the core of Arché was the grand launch of Crown Asia’s newest communities across South Luzon:

- Verdalia: Offers a wellness-oriented setting woven into wide-open horizons.

- Pinewood: Reflects a highland haven with cool climates.

- Ponticelli Groves: Features Italian-inspired bridges, boulevards, and breakthroughs.

- Serenza: Showcases a suburban sanctuary characterized by serenity and sophistication. 

Attendees were also given a special preview of Pranara in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, signaling Crown Asia's strategic expansion into premier shoreline destinations. 

An exquisite dining experience followed, in which each course subtly echoed the elements. This integration of culinary and conceptual storytelling affirmed that the art of arrival extends beyond the landscape, expressed across every layer of the living experience.

The event culminated in an exquisite dining experience, where each global course subtly echoed the elements, further integrating culinary and conceptual storytelling. This affirmed that the "art of arrival" extends beyond the physical landscape, expressed across every layer of the living experience.

The evening concluded with a ceremonial toast and inspiring words from Vista Land Chief Operating Officer Mary Lee S. Sadiasa. She encapsulated the collective sentiment: “To our partners, pioneers, and our people, those who continue to build and believe, may we move forward with precision and pride. Let us raise our glasses to foundations firmly formed, to developments with distinction, and to what lies ahead as we lead: rising, refining, and redefining.”  

Through Arché, Crown Asia reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to creating communities where land becomes lifescape, earth becomes environment, and air becomes the avenue where ambitions ascend.

The Art of Arrival

Across Crown Asia communities in South Luzon, arrival is not abrupt, but artfully attained.

- In Silang, Serenza offers a subtle, steady ascent, where terraced terrain and tiered gardens guide the gaze and the guest towards a state of stillness.

- Ponticelli Groves in Bacoor City presents a poised promenade, where tree-filtered trails and foliage frames soften the shift from city pace to peaceful cadence.

- Along the Tagaytay ridge, Pinewood is a portrait of permanence, where pine-scented surroundings, cool climate, and clean contours create a balance of calm and clarity.

- In Santo Tomas, Batangas, Verdalia completes the composition with a horizon held in harmony, where mountain views, mellow light, and measured landscapes settle into a scene of continuity.

These Crown Asia themed residential developments define the art of arrival as a sequence of settings where every pathway is purposeful, every perspective is precise, and every address is aligned to ground, then gently elevated.

Designed for Distinction: The Crown Collection

Complementing these communities is the Crown Collection—a host of home models attuned to distinguished preferences and diverse life stages.

From the grand scale of Lladro Grande, the financial foresight of Francesco, the flexibility of Topaz, the stately sophistication of Sapphire, the graceful grandeur of Garnet, to Murano’s mastery of modernity, each residence reveals an approach that balances usability with upscale living. With interiors imagined with intention, these living spaces are designed not only to be seen, but to be savored.

Bringing the Beauty of the World to Your Doorstep 

Built for the self-made, Crown Asia speaks to those who move with mastery, break through with boldness, and choose with clarity. For them, residences are not merely rewards, but reflections of their discipline, direction, and pursuit of distinction. A Crown Asia home is a trophy of triumph—an exquisite reward for themselves, and by themselves.

To know more about Crown Asia and its themed residential developments nationwide, visit www.crownasia.com.ph and follow @CrownAsiaOfficial. Your trophy home awaits!

Making Mother’s Day Extra Sweet: Anko’s Tea Party & Cupcake Workshops

Anko brings families together for fun, creativity, and quality time 

They say the best gift isn’t always wrapped—sometimes, it’s simply moments spent bonding with the people you love most.

Understanding this perfectly, the Australian home and lifestyle brand Anko treated moms and their little ones to a series of delightful Tea Party and Cupcake Decorating Workshops! The events were held at TriNoma (April 12), Ayala Malls Manila Bay (April 18), and Ayala Malls Feliz (April 25).

A Sweet Experience for the Whole Family

During the sessions, moms and kids got hands-on, creating delicious memories together. Using Anko’s high-quality silicone bakeware, mixing bowls, spatulas, and adorable serveware, children unleashed their creativity while moms added their personal touch—all within the warm, playful atmosphere that the brand is known for. 

Mommy Ivi

Leading the fun was the lovely Mommy Ivi Piadozo of @ourdailyulam. Known across social media for sharing easy recipes and meal inspirations, she guided everyone through fun decorating techniques and showed us how baking can be such a meaningful way to spend quality time with the family.  

Home Essentials You’ll Love

What I loved most was that everything we used—from the bakeware to the tools—are actually available in-store! It wasn’t just for display; it felt like a cozy Saturday afternoon that we could easily recreate at home. 

I personally fell in love with the White Enamel & Acacia Wood Serve Stand. It is simply elegant, sturdy, and timeless! I just had to bring one home because it perfectly fits our minimalist aesthetic and offers such great value.

More Surprises Coming Up!

The celebration continues! 

From now until May 10, kids can enjoy making paper bouquets for mom at the "Flowers for Mom" workshops available in all 5 branches: Glorietta, Alabang Town Center, TriNoma, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and Ayala Malls Feliz. 

And for all the hardworking moms, visit any branch on May 9 & 10 to enjoy a complimentary hair styling session! Plus, Anko Club members who spend ₱1,500 get a chance to take home a free limited-edition tote bag! 

Don’t miss out! Sign up for the Anko Club at anko.com/anko-club and follow @anko_philippines on Instagram and TikTok for updates! 

Shopee Philippines and PNP Eastern Police District Forge Partnership to Empower Police Families Through E-Commerce

Partnership extends Shopee’s Tatak Pinoy program to support the livelihood and financial well-being of police personnel’s families across Eastern Metro Manila 

Jack Ng, Head of Commercial, Shopee Philippines, with the PNP Eastern Police District

Shopee Philippines and the Philippine National Police-Eastern Police District (PNP-EPD) have formalized their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership aims to help the families of police personnel build sustainable livelihoods by harnessing the power of e-commerce.

Bringing Shopee’s flagship digital skills training initiative, the Tatak Pinoy program, directly to the PNP community, this initiative equips families with the essential tools and knowledge needed to start and grow their own online businesses.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to the financial security and well-being of the men and women who serve on the front lines. Under the program dubbed “Love at First Click: Negosyong Online para sa Pamilyang Pulis,” police families will receive comprehensive training and practical knowledge to establish and scale their businesses online.

Bridging Opportunities Through Technology

“We have always believed that e-commerce can be a powerful equalizer, and that belief extends beyond the marketplace,” said Jack Ng, Head of Commercial at Shopee Philippines.

“Through this partnership with PNP Eastern Police District, we want to give the families of our police personnel the same opportunities we are bringing to entrepreneurs across the country: real, practical skills that can help them build businesses and improve their quality of life.” 

The initiative leverages the framework of the Shopee Tatak Pinoy MSME Roadshow, which has already trained over 700 MSME sellers across 10 cities since 2025. Police families will gain hands-on expertise in online store setup, digital marketing, order fulfillment, and customer engagement—proven modules that have helped many transition from informal ventures to thriving online enterprises.

Support Beyond the Badge

PNP-EPD Police Brigadier General Aden Lagradante emphasized the holistic vision of the partnership:

“Our partnership with Shopee reflects our belief that supporting our personnel goes beyond the badge. The PNP Eastern Police District is committed not only to the safety of our communities but to the well-being of the men and women who protect them—and the families who stand behind them. When we give our personnel's families access to real livelihood opportunities, we are investing in their future and strengthening the foundation of our organization from within.” 

This collaboration underscores Shopee’s broader mission to build an inclusive digital economy, ensuring that the benefits of technology and entrepreneurship reach every community. As the Tatak Pinoy Roadshow continues to expand, Shopee remains dedicated to opening new doors of opportunity for Filipinos nationwide.

CX20 Oral Spray: The Smarter Way to Oral Comfort

New targeted oral spray from the makers of Orahex delivers fast action at the first sign of oral discomfort 

CX20 Oral Spray, a product of Oropharm, enters the oral care market with a powerful formula designed to act fast—right when it matters most. Making its debut at VoiceCon PH 2026, CX20 addresses common challenges faced by many, such as long hours of speaking, dry air-conditioned environments, and the dryness that often leads to throat irritation and mouth discomfort. CX20 is engineered to stop the discomfort early, before it gets worse.

Positioned as the go-to solution for the very first signs of oral discomfort, CX20 arrives at a time when consumers are looking for products that are easy, convenient, and immediate. It is designed for action at the earliest hint of irritation, not just when symptoms have already worsened. 

A Potent Formula That Goes Where It Matters

At the heart of CX20 is a 0.20% Chlorhexidine Gluconate formulation—a potent concentration that ensures effectiveness. Thanks to its precision nozzle, the spray easily reaches difficult areas in the mouth and targets bacteria where other formats simply cannot reach.

It provides a soothing and cooling effect, helping to reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort quickly. All of this comes in a compact, travel-friendly 30ml bottle that you can take anywhere.

Don't Wait. Act at the First "Ehem."

We all know that subtle feeling that something isn't right. Instead of waiting for the discomfort to escalate, CX20 empowers you to take action immediately.

Positioned as a brand of immediate action and targeted protection, CX20 leads the way in championing early response over delayed relief. As their tagline says: "Basta may oral discomfort, i-CX20 agad!"

Shop & Save Big: 3-Day Sale at SM City Grand Central!

There is no better way to welcome a new month and a long weekend than with an event filled with amazing finds, huge discounts, and delightful surprises.

SM City Grand Central is kicking off May in style with the highly anticipated 3-Day Sale happening on May 1, 2, and 3! Get ready because there’s also an Exclusive Early Bird Shopping Day on April 30, so you can beat the crowd and grab the best deals first. 

From the latest fashion and gadgets to beauty must-haves, home essentials, and lifestyle finds, the mall becomes your ultimate shopping destination with discounts of up to 70% off at participating stores. 🛒

Top brands like The SM Store, SM Supermarket, Ace Hardware, Watsons, Surplus, Uniqlo, Pet Express, and over 200 other stores are ready to give you the best value for your money. Whether you’re updating your summer wardrobe, restocking supplies, or giving your space a makeover, there’s something for everyone! 

WIN A BRAND NEW CAR!

Make every purchase count! For every P1,000 single-receipt purchase, you get a chance to win a Suzuki Dzire GL CVT Hybrid through our exclusive raffle promo!

Get ready to shop till you drop! Don’t forget to bring your reusable bags and wear your most comfortable shoes because the best deals won’t last long.

Stay updated on all the sizzling promotions! Follow SM City Grand Central on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smgrandcentral .

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS: SEARCH FOR EVERYDAY HEROES KICKS OFF

‘Hero for All’ Recognizes Ordinary Filipinos Making Extraordinary Impact

Public nominations are now officially open for Hero for All: Honoring Stories of the Everyday Filipino, a nationwide search dedicated to recognizing ordinary Filipinos whose selfless acts of service have created lasting and meaningful change in their communities.

Launched on April 9, 2026, this initiative aims not only to celebrate these unsung heroes but also to document and replicate their community-driven models of service so that their good work can inspire others and be sustained for the long term. 

Rewarding Service and Compassion

A total of twenty heroes will be selected through this search. Each awardee will receive PHP 1 million, which will be allocated to support their personal cause and a partner community organization of their choice. 

“To be extraordinary, you don't have to do extraordinary acts,” said Alden Richards, Lead Advocate of Hero for All, during the program launch. “There are just ordinary people with extraordinary missions. What makes what they do matter most is that they do it even when no one is watching. This search exists to find them and give them the recognition they truly deserve.”

How to Submit a Nomination

The nomination period runs from April 10 to May 1, 2026. To ensure that everyone can participate, nominations can be submitted through the official social media platforms of the program, as well as through physical nomination forms distributed nationwide—making the process accessible even to those without reliable internet access.

Requirements for submission:

- Nominee’s Name and Location

- A 150-word write-up describing their act of service

- Supporting materials such as photos, news articles, or endorsement letters

Video entries are also welcome! Just post on social media and tag the official accounts using #CasinoPlusHeroForAll.

All submissions will undergo a strict validation process before being endorsed to the Board of Judges, which consists of respected academicians, media personalities, industry representatives, and Alden Richards himself.

Awards Rites this National Heroes Day

The Grand Awarding Ceremony is scheduled for August 31, 2026, in celebration of National Heroes Day—marking a fitting tribute to the modern-day champions of the Filipino people.

Eligibility

- Must be a Filipino citizen currently residing in the Philippines.

- The act of service or initiative must have taken place within the last five years and must be verifiable. 

The program previously honored Rhodora Alcaraz Tuñacao, a domestic worker in Hong Kong who saved her employer’s child from a fire at great personal risk, serving as the shining example of the kind of heroism this movement seeks to recognize.

All deliberations and records are managed by the Alden Richards (AR) Foundation to ensure transparency, integrity, and accountability throughout the process.