Basta food, Panda! Your Guide to Feast and Fun this Masskara Festival

Savor Local Delicacies and Enjoy Delicious Food Without the Crowds—Delivered Right to Your Doorstep!

foodpanda has been the go-to at the Masskara Festival for years, and this year, they’re cranking up the excitement with their theme, “Subong nga Masskara, Basta food, Panda!” Get ready for delicious food deliveries that’ll keep your belly happy while you dive into the colorful festivities! 

Amid all the fun, foodpanda’s got your back with a tasty lineup of Bacolod favorites! Whether you’re craving something sweet to wrap up the day or a savory feast to keep you going, they’ve got it covered. Plus, foodpanda is ready to swoop in and save the day, even during the busiest holiday or festival frenzy—delivering tasty bites so you can stay focused on the fun without missing a beat!

Check out these local shops in Bacolod for all your festival cravings:

Ribshack 

Ribshack Spareribs

Known for satisfying those seeking rich, smoky flavors, Ribshack offers crowd-pleasers like perfectly grilled spareribs and juicy beef kebabs skewered with pineapple, tomato, onion, and bell pepper, delivering bursts of flavor in every bite.

Mr. Kokio

Mr. Kokio Combo 1

Perfect for those sharing with friends or flying solo, Mr. Kokio’s Combo 1 features crispy chicken bites paired with potato bites, while their Korean-style Chicken Bites offer a flavorful, bite-sized experience for solo diners.

L’Kaisei

L’Kaisei - Crazy California Maki 

For those seeking a lighter meal, L'Kaisei offers fresh, healthy options like the L'Kaisei Salad, a mix of crisp vegetables with tender chicken and teriyaki drizzle. For a sushi twist, their Crazy California Maki rolls are packed with crab sticks, mango, cucumber, and topped with tobiko.

Lechon Haus

Lechon Haus - Busog Orig

Lechon lovers rejoice! The Busog Orig features juicy, tender lechon perfect for sharing, while the Halo-Halo is the ideal sweet, icy treat for cooling down in the festival heat, loaded with fruits, jellies, and creamy leche flan.

Avocadoria

Avocadoria - Avocado Lover

For avocado fans, Avocadoria’s creamy Avocado Lover soft serve, layered with biscuits, tapioca pearls, and avocado chunks, is a must-try. For dessert lovers, their Avocado Sansrival adds a nutty twist with avocado buttercream, cashew meringue, pistachios, and almonds.

 

Merzci

Merczi Palabok

 

Merzci delivers classic festival favorites, like savory palabok with rice noodles, shrimp sauce, and chicharrón. For a sweet twist, their Piaya Ube flatbreads filled with ube paste make for a perfect pasalubong to share.

Virginia 

Virginia Winner Sweet Ham

Virginia offers the Winner Sweet Ham, a party favorite with sweet and savory flavors perfect for gatherings, while their Virginia Pasta Spaghetti Gourmet is a fiesta hit among kids, making it a must-have for any celebration.

Gotta grab some essentials for the festivities? 7-Eleven has you covered with snacks, drinks, and goodies in one convenient stop. Stock up on health and beauty products from Watsons, and get your pharmacy needs from Southstar Drug, so you can enjoy the festival without a worry.

Savor these local delights and enjoy the convenience of foodpanda! Count on them to deliver your favorites, even during the festival rush. Don’t forget to use the voucher codeMASSKARA for a special P100 off on your orders!

Keep an eye out for foodpanda and visit our booths for exciting activities and freebies! Check out the activation dates: October 24-28 for our mall activation at SM City Bacolod; October 25-27at Lacson Street; and October 26 at Lunar Bar. 

For more information about foodpanda and the incredible offers available, visit the official website at https://www.foodpanda.ph. Also like and follow the official social media accounts on Facebook,Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok and Youtube.

BingoPlus Foundation adds the “Plus” in health and livelihood initiatives in General Santos

In line with its commitment to improving community health and livelihood, BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive, has successfully completed a series of initiatives in General Santos, under its KalusuganPLUS and KabuhayanPLUS programs. These efforts aim to address critical public health challenges while empowering vulnerable communities with sustainable economic opportunities.


KalusuganPLUS: Sanitation facilities benefit 3,000 residents





In a series of turnover ceremonies in September 2024, BingoPlus Foundation handed over five sanitation facilities in the barangays of San Isidro, Ligaya, Tinagacan, Calumpang, and Bawing. These essential facilities are expected to benefit nearly 3,000 residents, addressing a long-standing gap in access to clean water and proper sanitation. Notably, the barangay of Bawing is home to Badjao communities, which have historically faced challenges in accessing clean water and sanitation.

This effort is in line with the Philippine Approach to Total Sanitation (PhATS), a nationwide initiative that promotes improved hygiene and sanitation practices, contributing to the achievement of local government units' (LGU) Zero Open Defecation (ZOD) campaign. PhATS emphasizes sustainable sanitation practices to prevent waterborne diseases and improve overall public health.

This initiative is particularly critical in the SOCCSKSARGEN region, where only 73.8 % of families have access to basic sanitation facilities, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority Annual Poverty Indicators Survey (March 2023). As lack of hygiene practices persist in some rural areas, this imposes a significant health risk in the region, which has also seen a return in polio cases. The newly built facilities address this gap, and BingoPlus Foundation is playing a pivotal role in safeguarding public health in one of the country’s most underserved areas. ​


KabuhayanPLUS: Training Center welcomes graduates

Beyond health, BingoPlus Foundation is also empowering marginalized sectors through its livelihood programs. In partnership with Barangay San Isidro, the Foundation celebrated the graduation of the first batch of trainees from its Dressmaking and Tailoring Training Center, which opened last June. The center is now serving its second batch of trainees, and applications will be open for Batch 3 through the barangay.

Part of the PLUS Centers for Livelihood network, this center collaborates with TESDA to provide NC II Certification in dressmaking, equipping participants—many of whom are solo parents and women—with valuable skills for employment or entrepreneurship. The program provides an alternative source of income and a sustainable livelihood for many in the community, fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in the region.

Celeste Jovenir, DigiPlus Vice President for Investor Relations and BingoPlus Foundation COO, shares, “BingoPlus Foundation’s mission goes beyond providing aid; we’re here to uplift communities facing the toughest social challenges, from health and sanitation, to livelihood, in General Santos and beyond. Through KalusuganPLUS and KabuhayanPLUS, we’re empowering individuals to rise above their circumstances and build a future full of hope and opportunity.

SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility: A Model For Water Sustainability

SM City Baguio is making significant strides in water stewardship with its innovative rainwater treatment facility (RTF), launched in July 2023. In the months since, the facility has already processed over 17,111.80 cubic meters of rainwater – equivalent to 7 Olympic-size swimming pools, or enough to fill over 6,800 standard water tankers – into potable water for the SM mall’s operations and for their lessees’ use. 

This initiative supplements the mall’s water supply from the Baguio Water District and significantly contributes to the city’s water security and the safety of its residents. Located at the mall’s basement level, the RTF provides 30% of the mall’s total monthly average requirement for clean water that is safe for consumption and food preparation.      

“There is a critical need for reliable and safe water sources,” said Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. “And SM City Baguio’s rainwater treatment facility is a commendable initiative that directly addresses this need. We hope that other private establishments can adopt similar projects for the efficient use of our water resources.”

The RTF utilizes a meticulous six-step treatment process, with equipment monitored and parameters checked in real time to ensure optimal performance. The processed water undergoes regular testing by the city’s accredited testing facility and consistently passes all water potability standards.

“This facility is a testament to SM Prime Holdings’ commitment to sustainable operations and to the well-being of the communities we serve,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Supermalls’ Vice President and Sustainability and Resilience Head. “By maximizing rainwater harvesting and treatment, we are not only reducing our reliance on the city’s water supply but also contributing to a healthier and more resilient Baguio City.”

The impact of the RTF extends beyond the mall itself. With reduced reliance on the city’s water supply, water haulers have been able to service more households, particularly during periods of water scarcity experienced throughout the city.

SM City Baguio’s rainwater treatment facility stands as a shining example of how businesses can play a vital role in addressing critical community needs through innovative and sustainable solutions.

SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon in integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future. 

SM Prime: Engineering A Sustainable Future

Sustainability has become a driving force across every industry. For SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of Asia’s leading integrated property developers, sustainability is elevated through a strategic framework that leverages the company’s extensive operations, significant economic impact, and cultural influence.

SM Prime’s sustainability journey began in the 1990s, guided by a focus on resilience and practicality. The company has always valued substance over style, favoring strategies grounded on real-world application rather than flashy, short-term fixes.  Its strategy is built on what truly matters to the business and the community it serves, ensuring that its sustainability efforts are both effective and enduring.

In its 2023 Annual Integrated Report, SM Prime introduced its Sustainability Ambition Roadmap with a clear and powerful message: Together for a sustainable future – aligned with its vision of creating and managing innovative, sustainable, and integrated property developments that enhance the quality of life for all.

Net Zero by 2040

SM Prime is committed to enhancing people’s quality of life by intensifying climate action, reducing disaster risks, investing in resilient design, protecting biodiversity, and implementing strategic corporate social responsibility programs, with its main focus on climate action toward a net-zero business. The company has been collaborating with the World-Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature-Philippines to establish science-based targets in alignment with the global commitment of a net-zero ambition by 2050.

“We understand the magnitude of the challenges we face to achieve our Net-Zero commitment. SM Prime is determined to take action and meet its climate commitments. This is one of our top agendas in sustainability,” said Jeffrey C. Lim, SM Prime President and CEO.  

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) recently partnered with Globe and Scholars of Sustenance Philippines for the Hapag Movement, aimed at targeting food waste and involuntary hunger affecting millions of Filipinos. “As a community, we strongly believe in our ability to contribute to solving today’s waste issues. We understand that this may seem like a daunting challenge to overcome. However, by joining forces, we can create a world that our future generations truly deserve – if we have the courage to take on this journey together,” said Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability champion. 

SM Prime’s developments serve as catalysts for socio-economic progress, delivering tangible benefits to all stakeholders. Founded by Henry Sy, the company remains committed to his vision of bringing world-class developments to the Philippines. A vision perfectly exemplified through the Mall of Asia Complex which offers a blueprint for future cities that go beyond commercial success to embrace a holistic approach to urban development.

SM Prime celebrated its 30th year as a publicly listed company last July 23, signifying three decades of service and transformative growth in the Philippine real estate industry.

“True leadership is marked by a solid dedication to collective success. Our journey at SM Prime demonstrates the power of dreaming big and the incredible achievements that follow when you pursue those dreams with determination and hard work.” – JEFFREY C. LIM, SM PRIME PRESIDENT AND CEO

Create Waves Of Positive Change With SM At The 2024 International Coastal Clean-Up

The International Coastal Clean-Up (ICC) is back for another year and is shaping up to be the biggest one yet, taking place simultaneously on September 21 in 15 different SM Supermalls across the country: SM By the Bay at SM Mall of Asia Complex, SM Tuguegarao Downtown, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Bataan, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Olongapo Downtown, SM City Sorsogon, SM City Legazpi, SM Daet, SM City Puerto Princesa, SM City Roxas, SM City Cebu, SM City Seaside Cebu, SM City Mindpro, and SM City General Santos. Together, we can make a significant impact on our oceans and create a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

In 2023, SM Cares recorded more than 100,000 kg of trash collected with the help of an estimated 17,000 total volunteers from 15 SM Supermalls nationwide. This year, in celebration of its 20th year of supporting communities and creating a positive impact on the environment, SM Cares aims to double the amount of solid waste collected to 200,000 kg, eyeing a volunteer count of 20,000.

If you’re interested in joining the global movement towards cleaner seas and oceans, SM Cares is inviting you to be part of this year’s ICC!

For participants from NCR, you may register via SM Malls Online through this link: https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/ICC2024

For participants from Cebu, you may register via SM Malls Online at https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/ICCSMSSXSMCC

For outside of NCR and Cebu, you may visit this link: https://bit.ly/ICC2024-Registration

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community. SM Cares’ advocacies include programs on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on Environment.

Embracing Net Zero: The Philippines’ Urgent Call To Climate Action

As we enter the typhoon season, recent extreme weather events have once again underscored the Philippines’ vulnerability to such conditions.

As the nation grapples with the potential aftermath, it is clear that being part of the global conversation on achieving net zero emissions is imperative. This typhoon has highlighted the urgency for the Philippines to be an active participant in the fight against climate change, not only to mitigate future impacts but to also contribute to global solutions.

The concept of net zero refers to balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere. For the Philippines, a country frequently in the crosshairs of severe weather, achieving net zero is a crucial step towards enhancing climate resilience. The recent typhoon has made it evident that the country cannot afford to be a bystander in the global efforts to combat climate change. Instead, it must be a proactive player, advocating for and implementing strategies that contribute to the global net zero target.

One of the key areas where the Philippines can make a significant impact is by leveraging its abundant natural resources to transition to renewable energy sources. By increasing investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, the nation can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, thereby lowering its carbon footprint. 

This transition is crucial for achieving net zero and offers the added benefit of creating a more resilient energy infrastructure less susceptible to disruptions caused by extreme weather.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. recognizes the equal importance and urgency of both climate change adaptation and mitigation. As part of our strategy, we are investing 10% of our Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) in sustainability and disaster resilience design.

A significant initiative supporting this commitment is SM Prime’s pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. As the country’s leading integrated sustainable property developer, we have committed to the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), a recognized global standard for corporate decarbonization targets. This makes us one of the few corporations in the Philippines to do so. To ensure our near and long-term science-based targets for 2030 and 2040 align with the global commitment to achieve net zero by 2050, SM Prime collaborates with the World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF) through their Corporates for a Better Planet Initiative (CBPI) program.

This ambitious target is supported by concrete actions, such as the installation of onsite solar panels across various properties and strategic partnerships for renewable energy sourcing. These initiatives not only reduce the company’s carbon footprint but also set a precedent for other businesses to follow, demonstrating that sustainable practices can be integrated into core business operations.

Pledging to advance every person’s right to a better quality of life through heightened climate action, disaster risk reduction, biodiversity protection, and our strategic corporate social responsibility programs, this commitment places climate action at the forefront as one of SM Prime’s sustainability agenda.

SM Prime Joins Global Conversation On Building Sustainable Cities For The Future

SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable urban development by hosting the 7th annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes (APRU-SCL) 2024 Conference and 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) at SMX Convention Center Aura. This prestigious event, organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), brought together over 300 experts to discuss innovative solutions for building greener and more resilient cities. Focused on the theme “Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation,” the conference highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing urban challenges.

SM’s commitment to sustainability was evident through the participation of its top executives. SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan showcased SM Supermalls’ eco-friendly practices and community-focused programs. 

“Our malls are more than just shopping centers; they are dynamic public spaces, woven into the daily lives of millions of Filipinos.”

Our comprehensive environmental sustainability programs are deeply inspired by the vision of our Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. Hans Sy, a tireless advocate for environmental sustainability and disaster resilience,” Mr. Tan said.

He added, “At SM Supermalls, we leverage science and technology to develop innovative solutions that are seamlessly integrated into the design and operation of our malls. We remain committed to leveraging innovation and collaboration to build a greener, more resilient, and more sustainable future for the Philippines.”

SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, shared the company’s vision of creating sustainable integrated properties that foster lively communities. 

National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr. highlighted SM’s role in disaster preparedness. He presented “From Risk to Resilience: The Work of the National Resilience Council in Risk Governance” where he introduced the Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP), NRC’s approaches and tools and how risk governance is supported by the sciences.

SM Prime’s commitment to sustainability was further emphasized during a breakout session on creating connections and partnerships, hosted by Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch. Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF)-Philippines, underscored the significance of collaboration: “Any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors.”

SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon on integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future.