Rex Education takes home awards at 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal, 45th Catholic Mass Media Awards

                               

Rex Education was recently recognized at the 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal and the 45th Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA).

The Quezon Gawad Parangal is held annually in October as part of the local government’s celebration of the city’s founding. The 2023 awards ceremony recognized individuals and institutions who were exemplary in the fields of social work, environment and sanitation, law and justice, business and entrepreneurship, and science and technology.

Rex Education was among the 15 individuals and institutions recognized at this year’s iteration of the prestigious event. The 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal took place on October 25 at the PETA Theater Center.

The selection panel of Quezon City department heads, previous award winners, and respected professionals from various sectors conferred the award to REX for its prominent dedication to educating the masses through literature. The local government also cited REX’s pioneering work in the educational publishing industry, particularly through Rex Book Store, Inc. (RBSI).

RBSI’s contributions to education publishing include learning materials encompassing early childhood education, basic education, high school, tertiary, law, and post-collegiate materials. RBSI takes pride in its extensive network of 24 branches located across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This only further affirms REX’s mission of nurturing every child for lifelong learning. To be the choice learning companion of Filipino learners and to be recognized by the communities REX serves, are a joy and honor.

Four of REX’s published works were also recently recognized at the 45th CMMA. The CMMA is an annual ceremony that pays tribute to individuals and organizations that produce values-filled content through print, broadcast, and social media. The CMMA pre-announced winners virtually on October 27.

REX and Catechetical Media Network (CMN-Asia, Inc.) bagged the Best Children’s Magazine with the publication “Backpack.” Meanwhile, REX and CMN-Asia’s “Crossroads” won in the Best Youth Magazine category.

“Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin (Marketing Our Local Products)” by Allan Alejo Jr., published by REX and CMN-Asia, was recognized as Best Editorial Cartoon. “Si Nelia, Si Marta, at Si Maria” by Felix C. Alcantara, published by REX and CMN-Asia, was acknowledged as Best Comic Story.

These citations further fuel REX's drive and dedication to producing quality learning materials that can inspire spirituality and values among Filipino children. REX always endeavors to contribute to the development of the whole learner— one who is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, challenged, and values-oriented.

In light of these accolades, REX remains inspired to constantly improve and strive for excellence— para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan.

Tears from Heaven: CHILD Haus celebrates 21 years

The SM Mall of Asia Music Hall was the venue of the 21^st-anniversary celebration of CHILD Haus, an institution founded by ‘Mader’ Ricky Reyes to be a bastion of hope for children stricken by cancer. Throughout its history, one consistent major supporter of the establishment has been the Sy family – in its early years, Henry ‘Tatang’ Sy, Sr., and over the last decade, SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy continuing the tradition established by his father.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes and SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy (center) celebrate the institution's 21st anniversary with the CHILD Haus beneficiaries.

Leading the event were Mr. Sy and ‘Mader’ Ricky, and several individuals and companies who, over the years, have contributed to the well-being of CHILD Haus were invited. Many children, who have been ‘adopted’ by CHILD Haus and now call it home, were also in attendance. The media was present as well, recognizing how establishments like CHILD Haus make a big difference and become the ‘answered prayers’ of so many children and their parents.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes

SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy

Three CHILD Haus stories, featuring Aya, Laura, and Jessa, were turned into video vignettes that highlighted the message of hope and the life-saving work of the organization. While it is easy to describe such events as heartwarming and tear-jerking, it was truly remarkable to witness even the most seasoned press photographers being moved to tears by these videos. This is a clear testament to the profound impact that these testimonials had on the audience at the event.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes, SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, and three inspiring CHILD Haus children, Aya, Laura, and Jessa.

After ‘Mader’ Ricky's heartwarming welcome, Mr. Sy himself took the stage to present plaques of appreciation to the many friends of CHILD Haus whose generous donations have made the organization's life-saving work possible.

CHILD Haus founder 'Mader' Ricky Reyes and SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy award plaques of appreciation to the generous friends of CHILD Haus whose contributions have enabled the organization's life-saving mission.

Those suffering from cancer and ‘adopted’ are provided food and shelter. There are presently two CHILD Haus locations - one in Manila, near the Philippine General Hospital, and one in Quezon City. Until the children are declared cancer-free and/or have completed their treatments and medical procedures, one child and one parent are allowed to live at CHILD Haus. If it’s an infant, both parents can stay. 

A longtime supporter and regular visitor to CHILD Haus, Karylle, led the children in a rousing song composed by Karylle’s husband, Yael Yuzon. Then ‘Mader’ Ricky’s daughter sang a rendition of Florante’s ‘Handog’ that had been reworded to fit the sentiments of the children at CHILD Haus. These were two songs that the children had learnt and practiced as a “thank you” to the many guests who have helped make the ‘haus’ a reality. 

Singer Karylle leads the CHILD Haus children in an uplifting song.

In the end, both ‘Mader’ Ricky and Mr. Sy acknowledged the significance of this event, which commemorates 21 years of compassion, fortitude, and the spirit of giving and sharing.

To know more about inspiring stories and events at SM, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.

SM SUPERMALLS’ LADY SECURITY GUARD GILREN BAJADO HONORED FOR EXEMPLARY ACT

Marikina City - Gilren Bajado, lady security guard of RJC Security Solutions, was recognized as the Outstanding Security Guard of the Year at the 43rd Founding Anniversary of the Civil Security Group at Camp Crame. The recognition ceremony was presided over by PNP Chief PGen Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. SM Supermalls Customer Relations Services Senior Assistant Vice President Mr. Almus J. Alabe and Regional CRS Manager Harold James E. Herrera were also in attendance to witness the awarding ceremony.

LG Bajado's outstanding accomplishment stems from her remarkable act of honesty and integrity on August 3, 2023, at SM Cinema, SM City Marikina. During her clearing duties, she discovered a lost black pouch containing 64,800 pesos, along with ATM cards and assorted ID cards belonging to Mr. Starsky D. Paunan, a 44-year-old staff member of Palarong Pambansa.

 

L-R: SM City Marikina Customer Relations Services Manager Mr. Edward S. Masangcay, Regional CRS Manager Mr. Harold E. Herrera, Lady Guard Gilren Bajado of RJC Security, PNP Chief Bejamin Acorda Jr., SM Supermalls Senior Asst VP for CRS Mr. Almus J. Alabe, RJC HR Manager Mr. Wilmark Reyes

Without hesitation, she reported this to the CRS office, ensuring the safe return of the lost valuables to their rightful owner. Her integrity, honesty, and dedication have earned her this prestigious recognition and admiration from her peers and superiors.

SM Supermalls and RJC Security Solutions take immense pride in her achievement, as it reflects the company's core values of professionalism, honesty, and integrity. Her commitment to her duties, her sense of responsibility, and her exemplary character have brought honor not only to herself but also to RJC Security Solutions as a leading provider of comprehensive security services.

The recognition of LG Gilren Bajado as the Outstanding Security Guard of the Year strengthens SM Supermalls’ commitment to maintaining the highest standards of excellence. The company consistently strives to provide security solutions while ensuring that its employees embody the highest ethical standards.

SM Supermalls extends its warmest congratulations to LG Gilren Bajado for her outstanding achievement and for being a shining example of integrity and professionalism. Her actions serve as an inspiration to all and remind us of the impact that a single individual can have on building a safer and more trustworthy society.

UST tops off Henry Sy, Sr. Hall at Manila campus

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) held the topping off ceremony of the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall last October 7, 2023. The ceremony is a builder’s tradition that highlights the placement of the final beam on top of the structure.

Heads of the UST and HSFI, led by Very Rev. Fr. Richard Ang,O.P. FMS Dean Dr. Ma. Lourdes Maglinao, and Debbie Sy, at the topping off ceremony last October 7, 2023

The seven-storey building is a tribute of the Sy family, the SM Group, and UST to the SM founder for his life-long education advocacy. It is equally a manifestation of the ever-growing desire of the UST Research and Endowment Foundation, Inc., Anargyroi: FMS Foundation, Inc. (AFI) and the 152-year old UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (FMS) to further level up in the field of medicine.

The artist’s rendition of the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall, which will rise near Gate 10 (Dapitan St.)

The Henry Sy, Sr. Hall will serve as a hub for simulation in medical education, interactive student centered-learning, collaborative multidisciplinary research, and interprofessional education. It will house the Sts. Cosmas and Damian Simulation and Research Center. 

(from left) SM Foundation (SMFI) SAVP for Education Eleanor Lansang, SM Investments VP for Securities Judith Balderrama, Henry Sy Foundation (HSF) treasurer Virginia Yap, SMFI Executive Director and HSF Trustee Debbie Sy, HSF Executive Director Dr. Lydia Echauz, SMFI and HSF Trustee Engr. Ramon Gil Macapagal are welcomed by Dr. Joreen Rocamora, Director of the UST Office of Public Affairs.

“The Henry Sy, Sr. Hall will be a state-of-the-art structure designed to meet the challenges and expectations of a digitally-inclined medical education landscape. It will house technologically advanced facilities and equipment, which will complement the existing teaching, learning, and research practices of the University. It is yet another milestone, securing the UST FMS a relevant spot, a significant spot in Catholic medical education in the country, the region, and the world.” FMS Dean Dr. Ma. Lourdes Maglinao said about the Henry Sy. Sr. Hall.

“Medical students can access a broad range of digital tools and resources to enhance their learning and education as we were compelled to shift to e-learning and online course platforms,” UST Rector, Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., said. 

“Nowadays, keeping up with the advances in medical education is paramount to ensure that our students are competent, agile, and well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the ever-changing educational landscape of modern medicine, and this building, this edifice, will give us state-of-the-art equipment, which will give our medical students a cutting-edge knowledge on how to use robotics as well as other equipment,” Fr. Ang added.

Designed by C.A. Ventura & Partners, the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall is on track to be completed by June 2024.

SM Prime, WWF-Philippines join forces to nurture the future sustainability champions

Recognizing today's youth’s key role as tomorrow’s guardians of the environment, SM Prime

Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) and World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-Philippines) have

teamed up to launch YOUth are the Future,a leadership program aimed to equip young student

leaders on environmental conservation , climate change, and sustainability issues.



“There is no better time than now to educate the youth. As stewards of the planet, it is important

that they have an opportunity to learn about environmental conservation, encourage them to

voice out their fresh ideas, and share new perspectives,” said WWF-Philippines Education for

Sustainable Development Project Head Dino Calderon.






“When we provide our young student leaders with learning opportunities and expose them to

practical solutions, we have a chance to help them design a sustainable future. We are

committed to make sure that things change for the better,” says Hans “Chico” Sy, President of

SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability

champion.

Commencing with the grand launch on October 10, 2023, the student ambassadors from various

Metro Manila high schools participated in a discovery tour around the SM Mall of Asia Complex,

which features SM Prime’s sustainability efforts and disaster resiliency practices. The formal

introduction of YOUth are the Future Ambassadors was held at the SMX Convention Center and

along with a pinning ceremony. Leaders and representatives from SM Prime, WWF-Philippines,

government agencies, and foreign dignitaries are also present at the event.

In a message she delivered during the event, Department of Environment and Natural

Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said, “Our journey is really about the

race to resilience, as our climate changes, society is changing. Sustainability is our pathway to

survival as a planet and that is what resilience is really about, the ability to withstand the impacts

of the hazards that we know and those that we could face in the future.”




The youth ambassadors will participate in a three-day eco-camp at the Pico De Loro Beach and

Country Club in November, where they will learn about waste and energy management,

resource optimization, and climate mitigation and adaptation strategies from some of the

country’s experts.




Renowned for its role in Olive Ridley Sea Turtle conservation, the 3-day eco camp in Hamilo

Coast also serves as an immersive natural classroom in environmental conservation. The

expected output from the eco-camp is a Green Manifesto that outlines their plans to effect

change and a storybook module co-authored by all the participants. The program will culminate

through a series of mall and school tours throughout Metro Manila to boost youth engagement

and student ambassador recruitment.

In a message sent by her excellency Vice President and Department of Education Secretary

Sara Z. Duterte, she said, “This visionary program embodies the transformative power of

education and empowerment in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future. Taking

advantage of this program will give you all a head start on becoming influential figures in

creating a more sustainable and ecologically aware culture”.

Together with its partners, WWF-Philippines hopes to empower young Filipinos further to

become the next generation of sustainability champions. Programs like YOUth are the Future,

can help future generations become proactive leaders who can #ChangeTheEnding for the

planet.

Expanding Sustainability: SM Foundation's 2nd Rainwater Harvesting System

  

Health workers in San Fernando, Cebu Primary Healthcare Facility water the locally sourced plants using the water from the rainwater harvesting system.

Rainwater harvesting is a way of collecting and storing rainwater for later use. It is an effective and adaptable way to conserve water and reduce reliance on main water supplies. Due to its efficacy, it has been applied by many civilizations in history and is being utilized today by forward-thinking institutions as a sustainable water management strategy.

SM group’s social good arm, SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI), for one, has embraced this by installing rainwater harvesting systems in two of the local health centers it recently refurbished–Brgy. Irawan Birthing Facility in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and San Fernando, Cebu Primary Health Care Facility. 

SMFI’s Health and Medical Programs proactively implemented this innovation to help sustain the health of the local community while preserving the environment.

Ready in times of emergency

Dr. Alfredo P. Manugas VI, Municipal Health Officer and Health Department Head of San Fernando, Cebu Primary Health Care Facility, said that while water is crucial to their operations, water supply is not always available in their municipality, even their center.

“The rainwater harvesting system is essential in our health facility because the water supply in our municipality is not available 24/7,” he said. “We are now provided a source of water in times of emergency or any interruption of water supply. Our staff and visitors can use rainwater for cleaning, flushing the toilet bowls, and watering the plants.”

SMFI Health and Medical Programs senior project manager Albert Uy runs through how the system functions.

SMFI ensures that the facility is convenient and manageable to maximize its purpose. It operates without electricity, increasing its sustainability. To harvest water for non-potable use, it collects rainwater from the roof and gutter. The water is filtered through vinyl-coated mesh filters to ensure its quality before being stored in the 800-liter storage tank.

To guide users for safe recycled water use, all faucets connected to the facility have visible labels. Alongside this innovation, SMFI also used air-cleaning paints, LED lighting fixtures and appliances, and locally sourced plants to create a clean and comfortable environment for patients and health workers.

These green innovations exemplify the SM group’s commitment to the environment and community health within the broader context of the SM Green Movement. With the social good impact of the two rainwater harvesting systems, SMFI targets to replicate this initiative in other health centers in its pipeline, further improving water security in the face of challenges.

Health workers use the rainwater harvesting system for their outdoor cleaning needs.

TikTok Shop Philippines' #1 skincare brand Dermorepubliq launches physical stores at SM Fairview, Riverbanks Center Marikina

Dermorepubliq, TikTok Shop Philippines' top skincare brand, has launched its newest physical stores at SM Fairview and Riverbanks Center Marikina, marking a significant milestone for the emerging brand in the Philippine skincare industry. 

This strategic move underscores the brand's commitment to implementing a multi-faceted sales strategy, combining the power of e-commerce with tangible, in-person customer experiences. By embracing the integration of physical stores into their successful e-commerce platform, Dermorepubliq aims to provide a seamless and inclusive shopping experience to a diverse clientele, enhancing accessibility and engagement on all fronts.

Dermorepubliq's kiosks showcase their collection of essential vitamin-infused products, tailored for men and women aged 18 to 35, offering both affordable and effective skincare solutions.

Dermorepubliq offers a diverse range of 16 highly effective skincare products tailored to specific skincare needs. The brand's core message is that quality doesn't have to be expensive; all their products are priced at less than 500 pesos, making them accessible to the local market. With formulations designed specifically for the tropical climate and backed by thousands of authentic customer reviews, Dermorepubliq has established itself as a local brand that can rival international brands in terms of quality and effectiveness. This affordability, combined with FDA-approved products prioritizing safety and efficacy, underscores Dermorepubliq's commitment to customer satisfaction and skincare excellence.

Dermorepubliq was cited as the number one skincare brand by TikTok Shop Philippines during its 9.9 sale after recording a sale of 13,000 units spanning 11,000 orders in that period alone.

Some of Dermorepubliq's best-selling products include their 5% Niacinamide + HA Serum and Niacinamide Face Bar. 

  

The skincare brand was launched in 2020 by founder Keith Corwin Sta. Barbara after enduring personal struggles with acne. Motivated by the desire to find effective and accessible skincare solutions, Corwin started the brand with only three products: the 10% Niacinamide + HA Serum, the Niacinamide Clarifying Toner, and the Alpha Arbutin + HA Serum.

Since its inception in October 2020 as a sole proprietorship and subsequent incorporation in November 2021, Dermorepubliq has shown exponential growth, marking its presence on platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok, and opening physical stores at SM Masinag and SM Tanza.

"Our transformative journey, beginning with modest roots and culminating in nationwide acclaim, stands as a testament to our unwavering dedication. The strategic integration of TikTok in our content approach represents a contemporary stride in skincare education, empowering our generation to confidently embrace and celebrate their innate beauty," affirms Sta. Barbara.

Dermorepubliq aims to captivate its audience on TikTok with a blend of educational, lighthearted, bold, and humorous content. Through engaging videos, the brand seeks to educate users while creating a relatable and fun connection.

With a strong foundation in quality and innovation, Dermorepubliq aims to empower young adults to embrace their skin's natural radiance. The brand's commitment to gentle yet effective skincare products resonates with a generation seeking to redefine their beauty routines with products that truly deliver.

Dermorepubliq’s newest stores are located at  SM Fairview Lower Ground Level, Parkway and Riverbanks Center KF-08, Palm Lane.  Additionally, you can explore and shop their range of skincare products online through their official website at https://dermorepubliq.com, on Shopee at https://shopee.ph/dermorepubliq, Lazada at https://www.lazada.com.ph/dermorepubliq, and follow them on TikTok with the handle @dermorepubliq for updates and promotions.

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About Dermorepubliq

Dermorepubliq is a local skincare brand founded in 2020 by Keith Corwin. Specializing in custom formulations that prioritize quality and results, Dermorepubliq offers a range of 16 meticulously crafted products enriched with essential vitamins. Designed for men and women aged 18-35, the brand combines affordability and efficacy, empowering young adults to embrace their skin's natural beauty. With a strong presence on platforms like Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, and physical stores at SM Masinag and SM Tanza, Dermorepubliq has become a leading name in the Philippine skincare industry.

You can find Dermorepubliq’s newest stores at the following locations:

SM Fairview: Lower Ground Level, Parkway

Riverbanks Center: KF-08, Palm Lane

You may also visit their online platforms through the following links:

https://dermorepubliq.com/

https://shopee.ph/dermorepubliq

https://www.lazada.com.ph/dermorepubliq

https://www.tiktok.com/@dermorepubliq

Water Sustainability: Leading the Change at SM Supermalls

The ripple effect of the water crisis has reached every part of the globe. According to the World Wildlife Fund, some 1.1 billion people worldwide lack access to water, and a total of 2.7 billion find water scarce for at least one month of the year. Worst, two-thirds of the global population may face water shortages by 2025 and ecosystems will suffer.

As the gravity of these issues becomes increasingly apparent, several countries have taken significant steps to forge a more sustainable future for the Earth. Noteworthy examples include Singapore's water management plan and The Netherlands' intricate conservation practices.

Singapore’s Desalination Plant

   

The Delta Works in The Netherlands was built by Rijkswaterstaat to protect the country against flooding from the North Sea.

Inspiration for the Philippines

In the Philippines, a multifaceted approach has also been embraced by the public and private sectors in safeguarding and managing water resources. SM Supermalls are at the forefront of the conservation and management of water resources in its mall facilities. Its endeavors form the foundation of a more sustainable and water-secure future that the company has long been advocating.

SM's Vision: Greening the Future

SM has been recycling water since the 1990s, treating an average of 1 billion gallons of water annually in recent years, equivalent to 1,600 Olympic-sized swimming pools. In line with the SM Green Movement, SM has been continuously working towards responsible consumption and water conservation in its properties.

To illustrate, the SM Supermalls’ comfort rooms have smart fixtures to manage water flow. There are also signages in the mall that advocate wise water use. Wastewater is channeled to the malls’ sewage treatment plants that recycle an estimated total of 4 million cubic meters of water, lessening their dependence on freshwater sources for non-potable uses. SM did this even before the measure was required by way of the Clean Water Act in 2004.

SM Mall of Asia has been involved in various sustainability and environmental initiatives, including water recycling among others.

SM Supermalls utilizes recycled wastewater from the mall for irrigating its gardens.

SM Malls have “Save Water” signages that typically aim to create awareness about water conservation and inspire people to take simple actions to reduce their water consumption

Recently, SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio. This facility can turn collected rainwater into potable water for mall tenant use such as washing and cooking as well as dishwashing and handwashing, allowing the mall to further lessen its dependence on the freshwater supply of the Baguio community.

SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio.

       

The Rainwater Treatment Facility at SM City Baguio 

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong (right) samples the potable water from the SM Baguio rainwater treatment facility with SM SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin (left) and SM VP for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza Silerio (center).

SM's dedication aligns with the world’s environmental sustainability and climate action goals. Rainwater catchment basins in flood-prone areas and the rainwater filtration in SM Baguio further exemplify this commitment. These significant efforts underscore the ongoing need for sustainable practices and policies.

A Brighter Future Ahead

The journey towards sustainable water management is ongoing. SM Supermalls, through its initiatives, paves the way for a greener, more secure future. 

Learn more at SM Cares  or follow SM Supermalls on social media.