Subic Sun

SM TEAMS UP WITH OLONGAPO LGU FOR ENVIRONMENTAL TREE PLANTING DRIVE

In keeping with its commitment to climate action, SM Olongapo Central partnered with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Olongapo and the City Agriculture Office for a community tree planting activity.

The joint initiative gathered nearly 900 volunteers—including SM employees, local officials, students, and civic groups—who successfully planted over 1500 Narra tree seedlings in Mampueng, Old Cabalan. The LGU, led by Mayor Rolen Paulino, Jr., extended his heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers.

This public-private partnership highlights SM's ongoing dedication to disaster resilience, urban greening, and supporting local government programs aimed at building a sustainable ecosystem for future generations. (30)

TOP DEALS ON FOOD, SHOPPING AND WELLNESS AT
SM OLONGAPO DOWNTOWN

To make your shopping list fast and easy, leveling up your skincare, or just grabbing a great meal, SM Olongapo Downtown is the place to be. The mall is bringing together massive sales—like the SM Store Monster Savings Sale and the SM Home SMAC Day alongside deals from your favorite local food, fashion, and beauty spots.
Make running errands fun, affordable, and easy by putting everything you need under one roof.
Here is a quick look at how you can spend your day at SM Downtown this weekend:
Head over on September 25 for the one-day-only SM Home SMAC Day, where SMAC holders get up to 50% OFF plus an extra 10% OFF on home essentials. If you miss it, don't worry—the SM Store Monster Savings Sale runs from September 26–30, giving you 10% OFF on all items when you spend at least ₱3,000.

Take a break from shopping and treat yourself. You can get a quick skin refresh at Surgilight Laser Skin Aesthetic Center and follow it up with a relaxing manicure or pedicure at Cut N Polish Beauty Studio.

Swing by The Loop to check out the latest phones and tech accessories. While you're at it, refresh your everyday look with classic casual wear and new arrivals from Bench and Penshoppe.

You won't go hungry with all the food deals available. Grab a quick bite at Shawarma Shack, sit down for a heavy Chinese meal at Chowking, or try the casual dining at K-Nyeomon for delicious Korean street food. If you are shopping with friends, head to Level 2 for Wingyard’s famous unlimited chicken wings, and wash it all down with a refreshing milk tea from Infinitea.

Create a weekend experience where you can get your big shopping done and still have time to relax, eat well, and pamper yourself.
Before you head out, make sure to download the SM Malls online App to claim extra discount vouchers and digital coupons you can use during your visit.

OCPO HOLDS MEETING WITH MEDIA OUTLETS, SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS TO COMBAT MISINFORMATION

By Percy Roxas

OLONGAPO CITY -- The Olongapo City Police Office (OCPO) conducted an Engagement and Coordination Meeting with Facebook Group Admins, media outlets, and social media managers at Camp LtGen Manuel F. Cabal, Brgy. Barretto, on September 24, 2026.

The activity was led by OCPO City Director PCOL Deonido Maniago Jr. and Police Information Officer PLT Mary Ann Sadaba.

During the meeting, they discussed the dangers of misinformation or false information spreading on social media, as well as the importance of proper fact verification before publishing or posting information.

According to Maniago, media outlets and social media administrators should first coordinate with the police to verify information, especially on sensitive incidents, to prevent the spread of unverified news that may cause fear or disorder.

He also cited recent threats that circulated on social media, as well as a viral video of a police operation where a police officer allegedly threatened an arrested individual. Maniago explained that immediately posting such sensitive videos or information without sufficient verification could affect those involved and the ongoing police operation.

Because of this, he encouraged media outlets and social media managers to cooperate and coordinate with the OCPO to ensure the accuracy of information released to the public. (30)

BSKE RESET TO 2028: MARCOS SIGNS LAW FIXING BARANGAY, SK TERMS TO 5 YEAR

By Percy Roxas

MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed a new law postponing the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) to November 2028 and fixing the term of office of barangay and SK officials to five years.

Republic Act No. 12326, approved on September 24, 2026, amends RA No. 12232 which previously set the elections for 2026.

Key Details of RA 12326:
1. New Election Date: The next regular BSKE will be held on the second Monday of November 2028, with succeeding elections every five years thereafter.
2. Term Fix: The term of office for both barangay officials and SK members is now officially five (5) years, up from the previous four-year term.
3. Holdover Capacity: Incumbents elected in October 2023 will continue serving until their successors are elected and qualified in 2028.

According to Malacañang, the President considered the crucial role of barangay officials in crime prevention and flood mitigation programs.

> “Nakita po ng mga mambabatas natin; nakita rin po ng Pangulo kung gaano ba kahalaga sa ngayon ang papel ng mga barangay officials... Kailangan po natin sila ngayon,” said Palace Press Officer Claire Castro.

President Marcos said the extension is not just additional time in position but additional time for accountability:

> “Hindi ito dagdag na panahon sa puwesto. Dagdag itong panahon ng pananagutan sa taumbayan,” Marcos said.

This is the fifth postponement of the synchronized BSKE since 2016. The elections originally scheduled for October 2016 were moved to 2017, then to May 2018, then to December 2022, and then to October 2023.

The law also directs the DILG, in coordination with TESDA, COMELEC, and other agencies, to institutionalize continuing training and capacity-building programs for barangay officials and SK members. (30)

SM SUPER SPELLING BEE UNFOLDS A BIGGER WORLD OF WORDS FOR STUDENTS
2026 edition introduces an exciting new format

The country’s well-loved spelling competition returns for its third year as SM Supermalls continues its commitment to developing the vocabulary and language skills of young learners across the Philippines. The SM Super Spelling Bee 2026 is grander and more exciting than ever, featuring an expanded competition format, more participating malls, and exciting prizes in store!

For the first time, the competition will include the Regional Semi-Finals stage, which will be held across six of your most-loved SM Supermalls nationwide. Meanwhile, the Eliminations will be held in 49 malls — an increase from the 40 participating malls in the past two years. SM Supermalls is extending the opportunity to more students to showcase their spelling prowess and mastery of words in a battle of wit, confidence, and linguistic skill.

“The SM Super Spelling Bee is more than just a competition but a space for kids to explore the wonderful world of words and the power of language. SM Supermalls wants to be part of their learning journey by providing an engaging activity that hones their focus, perseverance, and critical thinking skills,” said SM Supermalls Senior Assistant Vice President for Marketing & Leasing, Hanna Carinna T. Sy.

Last year, over 5,700 students from public and private schools competed, but in the end, Jamver Mallari, who represented SM City Legazpi, emerged as Grand Winner. This 2026, over ₱5 million worth of exciting prizes are up for grabs across the Eliminations, Regional Semi-Finals, and the Grand Finals stages of the competition. These include cash prizes, SM gift certificates, college scholarships from National University, National Book Store Gift Cards, MacBooks and iPads from Power Mac Center, and Bahay Turo vouchers. The schools of the grand winner, first runner-up, and second runner-up will also receive special prizes at the Grand Finals. Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. will provide media support by airing promotional materials on DepEd TV Powered by Knowledge Channel.

The competition is open to talented young spellers aged 9 to 11 years old who are currently enrolled in schools across the Philippines for academic year 2026-2027.

The competition is open to talented young spellers aged 9 to 11 years old who are currently enrolled in schools across the Philippines for academic year 2026-2027.

The eliminations will take place on September 12, 19, and 26, and October 3 and 10, across participating SM Supermalls nationwide. Meanwhile, the Regional Semi-Finals will unfold on October 17, 18, 24, and 25 in North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and Metro Manila. The much-anticipated Grand Finals will take place on November 14, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

“SM Supermalls is excited to see the latest batch of young learners show the effort and hard work they’ve put in. At the SM Super Spelling Bee 2026, the spotlight is on them, and it’s their chance to shine,” said Sy.

SM OLONGAPO DOWNTOWN CHAMPIONS LOCAL FOOD BUSINESSES
WITH "FOODTOK" THIS SEPTEMBER

This September, SM Supermalls, including SM
City Olongapo Downtown is bringing the favorite food trends with FoodTok at SM, a month-long festival dedicated to supporting local, homegrown food businesses (MSMEs).
Visitors can explore the food stalls at the ground level, a curated showcase of passionate local bakers, coffee roasters, and street food creators who represent the heart of the community’s food scene.
FoodTokAtSM campaign aren't just giving small businesses a physical booth, it gives them a stage to share their stories, connect with young foodies, and get the viral recognition they deserve.

SM Olongapo Downtown invites everyone to bring their family and friends and discover new local favorites.

SM City Olongapo Central is actively running the exact same Foodtok campaign. The mall has dedicated food fair spaces especially designed to uplift MSMEs.

To see the full lineup of Local food vendors, follow the official SM Olongapo Downtown page or head to your most-loved SM Olongapo Downtown and SM Olongapo Central for a maxed-out Food Festival 2026 experience!

Big shout out to my newest top fans! Milan David

YOUR SM MALLS ARE BUILDING ENERGY-EFFICIENT SPACES FOR
CUSTOMERS AND COMMUNITIES


Decades before national mandate, SM has pursued energy efficiency aligned with its sustainability goals across its nationwide network of most-loved malls.

“Under the SM Green Movement, responsible energy use is woven into the fabric of SM’s operations DNA,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations.

“On top of the energy we utilize, efficiency is also implemented for the power we save to benefit the communities surrounding our business.”

Built better for energy efficiency

In line with SM’s ongoing portfolio transformation, energy efficient design, fixtures, and practices are being implemented in new malls and redevelopments.

Natural lighting is maximized through mall skylights designed across mall spaces that receive the most sunlight.

The upcoming SM Nuvali mall emerging in the south has the mall operator’s newest iteration of a skylight. It features a one-hectare indoor garden lit by natural lighting thanks to its innovative Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) Roofing which allows sunlight to enter while dissipating heat.

SM Malls are powered by the Sun

Renewable energy use has also been a standard set by SM early on, even before the implementation of Republic Act 11285 or the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act in 2019.

SM’s measured adoption of solar power started in the early 2010s with SM North EDSA as the very first mall equipped with solar panels. Since then, SM has not only set solar panel installations as a standard in new mall launches but has also expanded rooftop solar panel networks in existing malls nationwide.
Recently, SM has hit a new milestone for solar energy generated, growing its peak to 123 MWp—enough to power more than 11,400 households in one year. By the end of 2026, SM aims to hit its target of 140MWp enough to power almost 13,000 households. By easing pressure from the national power grid, SM’s increased reliance on renewable energy to power its malls diverts energy back to the essential services and households of its surrounding communities.

Free EV Charging Stations

As part of its commitment to sustainable mobility, SM has rolled out EV charging stations across its mall network. First launched before electric vehicles became mainstream in the Philippines, the program has since expanded nationwide, helping make EV ownership more convenient, easing range anxiety, and contributing to greenhouse gas reduction efforts.

Now, 100% of SM’s malls have EV Charging stations that can be used free of charge for up to three hours. 167 stations across 90 malls help elevate the mall-going experience of Filipinos while lowering the barrier of entry for EVs to be further adopted in the local market.

“With these efforts, SM expands its spaces beyond retail while reaffirming its commitment to social equity to benefit customers and positively impact its surrounding communities,” said Eusebio. (30)

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China.
Every Filipino has an SM story.
For generations, SM has been more than a place to shop. It has become part of everyday Filipino life, a place where families gather, friendships grow, milestones are celebrated, passions are discovered, and communities come together.
As Filipinos’ lifestyles continue to evolve, SM continues to transform its destinations through My SM creating malls that are more connected, experiential, and meaningful, while remaining the place Filipinos know, trust, and call home.
My SM. Your Most Loved Supermall.

About SM Green Movement
Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come.

MAGULONG DISTRIBUTION NG RICE SUBSIDY NGAYONG ARAW SA GAPO, BINATIKOS

by Percy Roxas

OLONGAPO CITY -- Umani ng reklamo ang isinagawang pamamahagi ng bigas ngayong araw sa Olongapo City matapos dagsain ng reklamo ang listahan at sistema ng distribution.

Sa isang pahayag na inilabas sa Facebook ngayong araw, inihayag ng maraming netizens ang pagkadismaya sa nangyari:

"Nakakalungkot na marami sa ating mga kababayang nangangailangan ang WALA sa listahan, habang may mga doble-doble ang natatanggap at mayroon ding mga wala na pero nasa listahan pa rin," ayon sa post ni Vice Mayor Kaye Legaspi. "At kahit ang mga nasa listahan, nahihirapan dahil sa magulong sistema ng pamamahagi na humantong pa sa pagkakagulo sa mga venue."

Ayon sa pahayag, marami nang Olongapeño at mga Punong Barangay ang nagparating ng kanilang hinaing dahil sa nangyari.

MGA KAWALAN NG SISTEMA NA NABANGGIT:

1. Maling Listahan: May mga nangangailangan na wala sa listahan, may doble-doble ang natanggap, at may mga patay na ay nasa listahan pa rin.
2. Magulong Pamamahagi: Walang maayos na sistema sa venue na humantong sa pagkakagulo at pagod sa mga pumila.

Kaugnay nito, kinumpirma sa pahayag ni Legaspi na nagkaroon na ng aksyon mula sa mga opisyal.

Ayon sa FB post ni Legaspi, personal na nag-request si PB Echie Ponge ng Gordon Heights hinggil sa isyu ng listahan sa kanyang barangay. Nagkaroon din aniya ng privilege speech si Councilor Ying Anonat ukol sa parehong concern sa distribution.

Dahil dito, ipapatawag umano ang lahat ng concerned offices at departments para magpaliwanag at tiyaking hindi na mauulit ang ganitong sitwasyon.

"Ang ayuda na galing sa gobyerno at mula sa inyong buwis ay para makatulong at makapagpagaan ng pinagdadaanan ng ating mga kababayan. HINDI para magdulot pa ng dagdag na pagod, kalituhan at sama ng loob," sabi ni Legaspi. "This is very very disappointing!”

Patuloy na hinihintay ang opisyal na paliwanag ng mga implementing offices ng lungsod hinggil sa pag-verify ng masterlist at sa magiging bagong sistema ng darating pang pamamahagi.

Nauna dito, nagabatid na ang Olongapo City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) at naglinaw ng ilang mahahalagang bagay hinggil sa Rice Assistance Program o Rice Subsidy na ipinamamahagi sa mga mamamayan ng Lungsod ng Olongapo ngayon, Setyembre 14, 2026, sa ibat ibang barangay.

"Ang programang ito ay isang tulong mula sa ating Pamahalaan sa ilalim ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr., na naglalayong makatulong sa mga vulnerable at low-income households at mapalakas ang kanilang food security," sabi ni Nova Codoy, CSWDO head.

Sa Lungsod ng Olongapo, may kabuuang 24,242 households ang target na mabigyan ng assistance.

"Dahil limitado ang bilang ng assistance na maaaring ipamahagi at hindi nito kayang tugunan ang pangangailangan ng lahat ng mamamayan ng Lungsod ng Olongapo, kinakailangang magkaroon ng priority list batay sa mga available na datos," paliwanag ng CSWDO.

Sabi pa ng CSWDO, ang mga household na naitala sa CBMS at/o PSA Census bilang nangangailangan ng tulong ang naging batayan sa pag-prioritize ng mga benepisyaryo. (30)
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