SM Supermalls brews up the country's biggest coffee celebration with Coffee Fest 2026

From local roasters to well-loved cafés, the country's biggest coffee festival celebrates the country's vibrant coffee culture at participating SM Supermalls.

Coffee lovers gather at Coffee Fest 2026 in SM Center Pulilan, where specialty cafés, local coffee brands, and immersive experiences come together to celebrate the country’s thriving coffee culture

Some of the most memorable conversations take place over coffee rather than at a dinner table.

Coffee has evolved into more than just a daily ritual for Filipinos, from meeting up with friends after work and studying for hours to finding a hidden café or just taking a well-earned break. Every cup conveys a tale, and every café transforms into a place where people interact, make memories, and have novel experiences.

Coffee Fest 2026, which brings together coffee festivals, specialty cafés, regional roasters, homegrown brands, and immersive experiences for coffee lovers nationwide, is a celebration of the nation's flourishing coffee culture that SM Supermalls is hosting this July.

Coffee Fest 2026 invites everyone to sip, explore, and Gala To The Max at your favorite SM Supermalls, whether you're looking for your next favorite café, supporting local coffee entrepreneurs, or just need a new place to relax.

Coffee N' Chill: Your Third Space for Coffee Stories

Choose from a variety of coffee selections with friends and loved ones at SM City Baliwag.

Coffee N' Chill turns participating SM Supermalls into hospitable third spaces where every coffee break becomes an opportunity to slow down, connect, and learn something new. The celebration lasts until August 2.

Across participating malls, guests can look forward to:

• Coffee N' Chill Bazaars featuring specialty cafés and local coffee brands
• Coffee & Clicks Instagram-worthy photo spots
• Exclusive coffee deals through SM Malls Online Swipe Deals
• Coffee tasting sessions and pop-up experiences from participating coffee merchants
• Special activities and promotions at select SM Supermalls, including SM Mall of Asia and other participating malls

Whether you're meeting friends, working remotely, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, Coffee N' Chill offers a maxed-out coffee experience at your most-loved SM Supermalls.

Discover the country's largest collection of cafés and coffee experiences

Whether you're café hopping with friends or searching for your next go-to brew, your most-loved SM Supermalls offer coffee experiences worth discovering.

SM City Marilao

Vietnamese brews at Cong Caphe are always worth a visit.

Enjoy JCO Reserve’s premium coffee selections

SM City Baliwag

Hot and iced beverages are worth a sip at Better Coffee.

Chill. Sip. Repeat. Treat yourself to the perfect blend of bold espresso and creamy goodness at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.

Off to your next café escapade with Coffeebay

Have your dose of perfectly crafted coffee at Brew x Press.

The perfect blend of coffee, community, and culture

Visit your favorite coffee hangout spots at SM City Marilao.

Discover why SM Supermalls has emerged as the nation's preferred third location for coffee enthusiasts at Coffee Fest 2026. Every visit offers the chance to explore new flavors, support Filipino coffee makers, and make memories over every cup—from immersive festivals and specialty cafés to locally produced coffee brands and significant community experiences.

Enjoy a maximum coffee experience and Gala To The Max—only at your favorite SM Supermalls—whether you're an experienced coffee lover or just looking for your next favorite café.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences. 

Belmont Hotel Manila Turns Rainy Days into Moments of Comfort and Purpose

The most basic things, like a warm Filipino meal, a peaceful room, time to relax, and the chance to stop without going too far, can sometimes provide comfort when the day's plans are altered by rain.

Rainy Day Comforts, an overnight experience that combines Filipino comfort food, access to leisure and wellness amenities, and a significant contribution to the ongoing planting of Sampaguita, is being introduced by Belmont Hotel Manila this rainy season.

Batangas Lomi served in-room as part of Belmont Hotel Manila's Rainy Day Comforts experience.

The experience brings well-known Filipino flavors right into the room and is intended for visitors who want to unwind and enjoy a more leisurely stay. In the comfort and seclusion of their lodging, guests can choose between Beef Pares and Batangas Lomi for a hearty and filling meal.

A selection of Filipino comfort food featuring Batangas Lomi (left) and Beef Pares (right).

Additionally, the experience allows guests to take advantage of the hotel's amenities at their own speed, whether it's a peaceful swim in the rooftop pool, a workout at the gym, or a soothing session in the sauna.

Beyond personal comfort, the experience also contributes to a larger purpose.

Every Rainy Day Comforts stay contributes to Seeds of Hope, a Belmont Hotel Manila initiative that supports the Sampaguita community and the ongoing planting of the Philippines' national flower. By cultivating and caring for Sampaguita, the initiative makes a significant contribution to the hotel's ongoing sustainability efforts and its affiliation with Megaworld Hotels & Resorts' Petals to Purpose.

Guest room at Belmont Hotel Manila, offering a comfortable space to rest and savor the moment.

Additionally, the experience allows guests to take advantage of the hotel's amenities at their own speed, whether it's a peaceful swim in the rooftop pool, a workout at the gym, or a soothing session in the sauna.

The experience serves a greater purpose in addition to being comfortable for the individual.

Every Rainy Day Comforts stay contributes to Seeds of Hope, a Belmont Hotel Manila initiative that supports the Sampaguita community and the ongoing planting of the Philippines' national flower. By cultivating and caring for Sampaguita, the initiative makes a significant contribution to the hotel's ongoing sustainability efforts and its affiliation with Megaworld Hotels & Resorts' Petals to Purpose.

Located at the heart of Newport City and right across Runway Manila, Belmont Hotel Manila offers a convenient escape for travelers arriving through NAIA Terminal 3, airport guests between journeys, and those looking for a nearby pause from the usual pace of the city.

Rainy Day Comforts starts at PHP 5,399, inclusive of an overnight stay, a choice of Beef Pares or Batangas Lomi, and access to the rooftop pool, gym, and sauna. Available until September 30, 2026.

Guests may book their stay through belmonthotelmanila.com or by emailing stay@belmontmanila.com.

Because when the rain changes the plans, there is still time to Savor the Moment.

About Megaworld Hotels & Resorts

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. The hotel chain is the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group recognized by the World Travel Awards in 2024 and the country’s largest hotel operator with 14 hotels, 8 brands, and 9,000 room keys including the ones in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, The Sampaguita, across its brands including Savoy and Belmont in Boracay, Mactan Cebu, and Pasay. Richmonde hotels in Eastwood, Ortigas, and Iloilo. And Kingsford Hotel and Grand Westside Hotel in Paranaque; Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Binondo; in Twin Lakes Hotel in Batangas; and Mercure Mactan Cebu in Mactan Island.

Creating Brighter Beginnings: RMHC Philippines Opens Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Center in Marikina

Photo from Left (in-front): Kap. Zaldy Josef, Shiela Josef (Brgy. Sto Nino, Hazel Militante (City Social Welfare Development Officer, Marikina City), Hon. Mayor Marjorie Ann “Maan” Teodoro, Congressman Marcy Teodoro, City Councilor Angel Nunez (Marikina City), Margot B. Torres (Managing Director, McDonald’s Philippines & Vice President, RMHC), Marie Angeles (Executive Director, RMHC), and Rev. Fr. Arvin Jerome Piedad (Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora de los Desamparados) Photo from Right (back): Austin Torres (Public Affairs Senior Manager, McDonald’s Philippines), Atty. Jiji and Alex Fernandez (Owner Operators, McDonald’s Philippines)

McDonald's Philippines, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Philippines, and the City Government of Marikina celebrate the opening of the 57th Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Center in Barangay Sto. Niño, Marikina City, creating brighter beginnings for young learners and reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing early childhood education in Filipino communities.

A daily struggle for many Filipino parents is juggling work and making sure their kids receive high-quality early childhood education. For Monica Dela Cruz, a Barangay Sto tricycle driver. This reality is all too familiar to Niño, a mother of three from Marikina City.

Monica balances taking care of her kids with working long hours on the road as the family's main provider. Her three-year-old son starts preschool this year, marking another significant milestone for her family. This is a new chapter that also entails new obligations and goals.

"For us at McDonald’s and RMHC, making a difference in communities, especially through education has and will always be part of who we are and what we do—from early childhood education, all the way to preparing students to be workforce ready.“ ~Marie Angeles, Executive Director of RMHC Philippines

Stories like Monica's highlight the significance of easily accessible, community-based early childhood education while reflecting the realities faced by many hardworking Filipino families.

On June 26, 2026, in Barangay Sto, McDonald's Philippines and Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Philippines officially opened the 57th Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Center in recognition of this need. Marikina City, Niño. The learning center offers young children a secure, caring, and engaging setting in which they can develop the fundamental literacy, numeracy, and socioemotional skills necessary for formal education.

"The opening of the Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Center reflects our shared commitment to making quality early childhood education more accessible for every child. Ito po ay magiging daan upang mas marami pa sa ating mga kabataan ang magkaroon ng pagkakataong makatanggap ng dekalidad na edukasyon sa isang ligtas, maayos, at nurturing environment.” ~Mayor Marjorie Ann "Maan" Teodoro of Marikina City

Another significant achievement in McDonald's and RMHC Philippines' ongoing efforts to increase underprivileged communities' access to high-quality early childhood education is the Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Center. McDonald's and RMHC continue to provide educational opportunities that support children's growth, families' success, and communities' strength, with 57 Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers currently serving Filipino children nationwide.

"Malaki talaga ang pasasalamat ko sa McDonald’s Philippines at Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Philippines sa pagbigay ng Bahay Bulilit Learning Center sa Brgy. Sto Nino, sa Marikina sapagkat matitiyak kong makakatanggap ng tamang edukasyon ang aking bunsong anak.” ~For parents like Monica

One learning center at a time, RMHC Philippines continues to grow its network of 57 Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Learning Centers nationwide while staying true to its mission of empowering families, providing children with high-quality early childhood education, and fostering stronger communities.

About McDonald’s Philippines

McDonald’s Philippines master franchise holders Dr. George T. Yang & Kenneth S. Yang brought McDonald’s to the Philippines in 1981. Since then, McDonald’s in the Philippines has been a formidable player in the country’s quick-service restaurant industry, having grown a network of over 860 stores nationwide. McDonald’s Philippines continues to aspire to make a difference in communities where it operates through its charity of Choice, Ronald McDonald House Charities Philippines.

About Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Philippines

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is the charity of choice of McDonald’s. RMHC Philippines was established in 1996 to make a difference in the lives of Filipino children through programs that support children’s rights to education, health and happiness. It has helped more than 13 million children all over the country. Through the generosity and trust of corporate partners and individuals, RMHC Philippines has raised over PhP350 million to support their flagship programs.

Manila Water calls on customers to support August desludging program

Manila Water rolls out its August desludging schedule and encourages customers to take advantage of this essential service. By participating in regular desludging, customers become partners in protecting waterways, reducing pollution, and safeguarding public health in their communities.

Manila Water is urging consumers throughout its East Zone concession area to take part in its planned August desludging activities, emphasizing the critical role that homes play in maintaining waterways and safeguarding community health.

Customers can lessen the risks to the environment and public health by regularly desludging their septic tanks to stop untreated wastewater from entering nearby waterways, groundwater sources, and drainage systems.

For this month of August, Manila Water desludging teams will be deployed in the following East Zone Barangays: Bagong Nayon, Sta. Cruz, and San Luis in Antipolo City; Baras and Jalajala in Rizal; Pila Pila in Binangonan; San Andres and San Isidro in Cainta; Santa Ana in Taytay; Caniogan, Santo Tomas, and Santolan in Pasig City; Malanday, Marikina Heights, Nangka, and Parang in Marikina City; San Isidro and San Jose in Montalban (Rodriguez); and Ampid 1 in San Mateo. The desludging teams will also be deployed to select accounts in Marilag, Botocan, San Vicente, Paligsahan, and San Martin de Porres in Quezon City.

“Every household that participates in desludging becomes a partner in protecting our waterways and safeguarding public health. By ensuring that septic tanks are regularly maintained, customers help prevent pollution and contribute to cleaner, healthier communities.” ~Dittie Galang, Manila Water Corporate Communications Group Head

Desludging is the process of removing wastewater and accumulated sludge from septic tanks. Before being safely released in compliance with environmental regulations, the collected septage is transported to Manila Water septage treatment facilities, where it is properly treated. This procedure supports larger initiatives to enhance water quality throughout the East Zone by lowering the pollution load that might otherwise wind up in rivers and creeks.

Currently, Manila Water treats wastewater throughout its concession area with three septage treatment facilities. These are the Pinugay SpTP in Antipolo, Rizal; the South SpTP in FTI, Taguig; and the North Septage Treatment Plant (SpTP) in San Mateo, Rizal. 

Manila Water employees will notify customers in the designated service areas in advance, and they are urged to make sure their septic tanks are accessible on the day of the operation.

Manila Water offers a free desludging service that is carried out every five years. 

The initiative is a component of the business's ongoing efforts to enhance environmental sustainability and sanitation services in the East Zone.

Pru Life UK distills the value of long-term wealth

In photo: [L-R] Atty. Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer; Rex Mendoza, Chairman of Rampver Financials; Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK President and Chief Executive Officer; and Kris Ong, founder of Drambox Ph and a Scotch Malt Whisky Society & Single Cask liaison for the Philippines.

Pru Life UK's Pru Life UK Private Reserve Series: Value brought together affluent clients. Distilled is a private forum that focuses on developing wealth in volatile markets through resilience, discipline, and protection.

The evening's main message—that lasting value is created over time with patience, balance, and professional guidance—was reflected in the event's combination of market analysis and a carefully chosen whisky tasting experience.

Opening the event, Pru Life UK President and Chief Executive Officer Sanjay Chakrabarty said the discussion was about “building sustainable long-term wealth” and the role of “clarity and discipline” in shaping financial decisions over time.

“At Pru Life UK, we help individuals and families in protecting what matters most and planning with confidence for the years ahead. We have financial solutions that balance protection, income stability, and long-term growth.” ~Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK President and Chief Executive Officer

Rex Mendoza, a prominent figure in finance and investment, gave a keynote address at the forum. He covered how investors can navigate global uncertainty, spot opportunities, and prioritize protection in their wealth strategy.

According to Mendoza, wealth planning now encompasses more than just expansion. It involves creating portfolios that are resilient to fluctuations, safeguard families, and promote long-term objectives.

Additionally, clients participated in an interactive conversation about risk management, legacy planning, portfolio positioning, and strategic financial decision-making in changing market conditions.

Pru Life UK also showcased a suite of premium financial solutions for high-net-worth customers, including PRUWealth 10, an endowment plan with guaranteed payouts and protection; PRUMillion Protect, a high-protection investment-linked plan; and the PRULink Strategic Income Fund, a globally diversified multi-asset fund.

Kris Ong led a whisky tasting session at the end of the evening, drawing a comparison between wealth creation and whisky maturation. Clients were reminded of the importance of perseverance, skill, and long-term thinking.

Pru Life UK reaffirmed its position as a long-term partner for clients looking to preserve, grow, and pass on wealth thanks to its 30 years of experience in the Philippines and Prudential's 178-year global heritage.

The company's ongoing endeavor to provide premium, insight-driven customer experiences includes the Pru Life UK Private Reserve Series.

About Pru Life UK

Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.  

 

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of over 35,000 licensed agents. 

  

Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.   

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of FY 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.   

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.   

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph. 

The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information. 

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission. 

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information. 

Notes: 

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year  

Beard Papa brings its world-famous Japanese cream puffs to SM City Grand Central

With the official opening of Beard Papa's newest location, the mall's 16th location and the most recent addition to its expanding dining lineup, dessert enthusiasts in the North Metro have a new reason to visit SM City Grand Central.

Beard Papa, which is well-known worldwide for its freshly baked cream puffs, brings its famous Japanese pastries closer to Caloocan and surrounding cities, providing a delightful destination for families, students, and foodies seeking a fine dessert experience.

Beard Papa's history started in 1999 in Osaka, Japan, when baker Yuji Hirota opened his modest local bakery to patrons. His devoted customers dubbed him "Beard Papa" because of his friendly demeanor and characteristic white beard. He invented the cream puff that would eventually become the brand's worldwide emblem, motivated by the delight of sharing freshly baked goods.

Each Beard Papa cream puff has a double-layered shell with a crisp pie crust on the outside and a delicate choux pastry inside. Only after an order is placed is each pastry filled, guaranteeing a crisp, light shell with a smooth vanilla bean custard mixed with whipped cream. One of the brand's distinguishing features is its dedication to freshness.

From its modest beginnings in Osaka, Beard Papa has grown to over 500 locations in 15 countries and territories, bringing its Japanese custom of freshly made pastries to millions of consumers worldwide.

The freshly made cream puffs that have made Beard Papa a global favorite are now available to customers at SM City Grand Central. Every cream puff is designed to deliver the brand's distinctive balance of crisp pastry and creamy filling, whether it is consumed as an afternoon snack, an after-shopping treat, or a dessert to share with family and friends.

With the addition of Beard Papa, SM City Grand Central's dining options are further enhanced, providing North Metro customers with another internationally renowned culinary destination to explore. Visitors can anticipate even more thrilling culinary experiences in one handy location as the mall keeps growing its assortment of regional and global brands.

Discover why its freshly baked cream puffs continue to make people happy and give them a taste of Japanese oishii, or deliciousness, when you visit Beard Papa at SM City Grand Central.

Easy, Affordable Baon Ideas Await at SM Hypermarket Baliwag

Make every recess sweeter with Nissin favorites at SM Hypermarket Baliwag! Grab Wafer Choco and Eggnog Cookies for a delicious baon treat.

Making delicious and nourishing baon doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming. SM Hypermarket Baliwag has everything a family needs to make tasty meals on a budget, whether they are for professionals heading to the office or students heading to school.

Baon made better! Pack your lunch with Purefoods favorites available at SM Hypermarket Baliwag. These are quick, delicious, and ready to fuel every school and work.

Customers can find everything they need in one location, including wholesome snacks, ready-to-cook meals, nutritious sandwiches, and refreshing drinks, while taking advantage of everyday low prices and exciting promotions.

Baon win, every time! Purefoods favorites bring crispy goodness to every lunch break. Grab yours today at SM Hypermarket Baliwag!

Cheesy baon? Yes, please! Elevate every sandwich and burger with Emborg Cheese Slices available at SM Hypermarket Baliwag.

Only at SM Hypermarket Baliwag, where quality, convenience, and savings come together—All For You—can you make every school and workday more enjoyable with useful baon ideas that are inexpensive, satisfying, and simple to prepare.