SM Prime and BFP seek Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines 2024

by Info @Brand Zone | August 28, 2024

In a groundbreaking initiative, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) are searching for the Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines 2024 to recognize the exceptional bravery and dedication of our firefighters.

For the first time, a private company like SM Prime is shining a spotlight on the exemplary performance of 10 out of nearly 38,000 BFP personnel. These firefighters have gone above and beyond in their duties, risking their lives to protect communities across the country.

The deadline for nominations is August 31, 2024. Nominations can be submitted by BFP’s highest commanding officer of the unit, immediate superior, or local chief executive.

Nominations for the awards began in July 2024, with the awarding ceremony scheduled for December 2024. The top 10 awardees will receive a plaque of recognition and a cash prize of PHP 250,000 each, while ten finalists will each be awarded PHP 20,000.

SM Prime and the BFP have partnered through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on June 27, 2024. As part of this partnership, the two organizations launched the yearly search for the Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines.

SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim (second from left), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Director Louie Puracan (second from right), SM Supermalls’ Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group Liza Silerio (left) and BFP Chief Superintendent Renato Capuz (right) at the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing in June 2024.

SM Prime breaks new ground by recognizing the top 10 performers from the 38,000-strong Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Book Nook empowers Filipinos through literacy, self-expression, and giving back

by Info @Brand Zone | August 15, 2024

In December 2020, Sheeren Sy, a Singaporean architect affiliated with SM Supermalls, initiated the establishment of Book Nook. The idea began when Sy encountered a small, unattended shelf in Australia, where people could share books for free.

Shereen Sy, inspired by an unmanned book-sharing shelf in Melbourne, Australia, initiates the establishment of the Book Nook in 2020.

Inspired by this concept, she dreamed of bringing a similar initiative to the Philippines. Recognizing the spirit of "bayanihan" – a Filipino value that emphasizes communal unity and cooperation – Sy envisioned creating a space where Filipinos could share not just books but also their talents.

This open library on the third level of SM Aura is a cozy space that allows visitors to browse a growing collection of over 3,000 books, donate and swap books, and foster a love of reading and sharing while promoting community engagement.

Book Nook is more than just a place of learning; it's a dynamic hub that sparks interest and curiosity. Extending far beyond its collection of books, it hosts a variety of events and activities catering to diverse interests.

Lifestyle journalist and author Stephanie Zubiri (right) collaborates with award-winning visual artist Vico Cham (left) to introduce "Chalky the Chameleon," a series of books promoting diversity and inclusivity.

Nina Daza-Puyat, daughter of late culinary master Nora Daza, holds book readings of her children’s book “Ang Alamat ng Lumpiang Shanghai” and “The Forlorn Rice Cooker”.

Advertising veteran Merlee Jayme (second from right) launches her book “Ten Talks, Ten Cities” with (L-R): Businessman and former politician Manny Villar, National Bookstore’s Xandra Ramos-Padilla, and Book Nook founder Shereen Sy at the Book Nook in SM Aura.

In another initiative, the space provided a platform for solo mothers to connect through a book launch of "Solo, Yet SOLOved," by Tinette Cortes, a memoir about overcoming domestic violence.

Author of "Solo, Yet SOLOved" and solo mother Tinette Cortes (middle) with members of the SM SuperMoms Club.

To nurture local talent, Book Nook hosted a workshop led by comic book creator Jamie Bautista, where aspiring artists learned the intricacies of visual storytelling.

Emerging artists learn the art of visual storytelling from renowned comic book creator Jamie Bautista.

Moreover, in collaboration with Camerahaus, the biggest photography retailer in the Philippines, Book Nook organized a VlogCon to equip content creators with essential knowledge. Over 700 participants joined the event.

In the photo: Book Nook founder Shereen Sy (second from right) together with Camerahaus CEO William Sia (center) and Vice President Robenson Ong Lo (third from left)

GMA Network donated copies of the illustrated children's book “Si Gren, Ang Kaibigan Kong Alien” to SM Supermalls through Book Nook. “Si Gren, Ang Kaibigan Kong Alien” is a companion book to GMA's TV series “My Guardian Alien,” which is about an alien who takes the form of a deceased woman named Katherine after accidentally crashing to Earth in a pod.

The cast of GMA's TV series “My Guardian Alien” (L-R): Arnold Reyes, Raphael Landicho, Christian Antolin, and Gabby Eigenmann (back).

The success of the initial location at SM Aura has led to the upcoming August 15 opening of a new branch at The Podium.

Learn more about SM's community programs at https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares/.

Cyberzone steps into the future with AI-Powered Tech Influencers: Meet the Cyberzone Crew

by Info @Brand Zone | August 10, 2024

Cyberzone, the Philippines' leading tech authority, is at it again, pioneering the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence) to elevate the customer experience and solidify its position as a tech visionary. This exciting development marks the prelude to the Cyberzone Crew, an AI-driven marketing strategy set to transform how Cyberzone interacts with its customers across all channels: physical stores, online platforms, tech and gaming events, and even within SM Supermalls.

Meet Cyberzone Crew

CY, the Number One Cybersumer and Leader of the Group

The energetic leader of the pack, CY embodies the ultimate Cybersumer, living and breathing all things tech. If you’re the tech guru of your group, this is the Cyberzone Crew member you will most relate to.

Tyler, the Technophile for All Seasons

A true tech chameleon, Tyler navigates the ever-changing world of tech trends with infectious enthusiasm. He simply can’t get enough of tech. If you think there’s too much tech out there that you only wish you could explore to the fullest, Tyler is your ultimate Cyberzone Crew persona.

Poppy, Your Girl for All Things Pop Culture

The pop culture maven, Poppy, will keep you in the loop on all things music, movies, and series. With a fangirl's heart and an influencer's reach, she is on fangirl mode 24/7 and is the perfect Cyberzone Crew bestie for all pop culture fans.

Alex, the Next Gen Cybersumer

Balancing student life with Roblox mastery, Alex represents the next generation of Cybersumers, proving tech can be both fun and educational. If you need some tips on how to balance being a student with your fun gaming life, get your tips from Alex.

Gian, the Reigning Champion Among Super Gamers

The ultimate champion of the gaming world, Gian lives by the motto "Sleep. Eat. Game. Repeat." Get ready for some serious gaming wisdom from this Cyberzone Crew member!

No Limits, All Thrills of Tech-Assured Shopping Experience

The members of the Cyberzone Crew won't just be cool faces (well, pixels!) either. Expect to interact with them in various ways such as through live events where you can engage with Cyberzone’s interactive kiosks and create unforgettable memories, while shopping where you can seek their advice or simply enjoy, and through digital guides where they will help you navigate through digital directories, kiosks, and marketing materials.Top Brands. Big Deals. Legit XPs. Get it? Got it! #GotITAtCyberzone 

Watch Cyberzone’s New Hero Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3Bf1h1gGXA 

A shopper asks Cy, the leader of the Cyberzone Crew, her latest recommendations on budget-friendly smartphones for her next tech upgrade

The Cyberzone Crew is set to make your shopping journey seamless and fun every time, so buckle up, tech enthusiasts! The future of retail is here, and it's powered by the electrifying personalities of the AI-powered crew. Get ready for a shopping experience that's not just about #TechAssured transactions, but about connection, entertainment, and pure tech fun.

Level Up with Cyberzone at SM Cybermonth

CTRL+ALT+PLAY all weekends of August! Don’t miss out and make sure to #LevelUpAtSMCybermonth only at Cyberzone.

Always make sure to #CheckCyberzone at an SM Mall near you for the newest and best gadgets. You can also locate competitive tech deals through the SM Malls Online app. Keep informed regarding the latest tech updates and gaming events like the Cybermonth, and more by following SM Cyberzone on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or by visiting its website at www.smcyberzone.com.