Balanga City, Philippines – Hundreds of young leaders, innovators, and advocates gathered at SM City Bataan on August 22, 2025 for the Global Youth Summit (GYS) 2025, a nationwide initiative of SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Philippines.
The event brought together an estimated 300 participants from schools, organizations, and communities across Bataan to engage in inspiring discussions and collaborative activities that advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This year’s program featured Mr. Ranze Calderon – Executive Director Youth Force PH, Kier Aventurado, Program Director for Youth Development Office, Dr. Jayvie Villazor – Assistant Professor BPSU Medical, Ms. Danica Lolita Tigas – OIC Provincial Tourism Office, Provincial Government of Bataan and Hon. Atty. Antonino Roman, III, Congressman, 1st District of Bataan who shared their experiences and insights on topics such as SGD 4: Quality Education “Youth as Partners in Shaping Inclusive and Quality Education for all”, SDG 3: Good Health & Well-being “Strengthening Mental and Emotional Resilience in the Next Generation” and SGD 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions “The Role of Young People in Building Safe, Peaceful, and Inclusive Communities.”
Participants also enjoyed performances from Teatrong Bayan adding to the celebratory and empowering atmosphere of the event.
“Sa panahon ng AI, kailangan nating sumabay sa pagbabago. Together, we will support events like this to help young leaders like you stay ahead and make a real impact.” Said Engr. Jose S. Singca Jr., Building Administration Manager, SM City Bataan.
“Empowering the youth to drive social initiatives and faster peace, justice, and inclusivity – they are all the little things that we do everyday.” Said Atty. Antonino “Tony” Roman III, 1st District Representative, Province of Bataan.
The Bataan leg of GYS 2025 is part of a series of summits held across 17 SM Malls nationwide, which started at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Each leg serves as a platform for young changemakers to network, learn from experts, and collaborate on projects that support the SDGs.
SM Cares and GPF remain committed to empowering the next generation by providing them with spaces and opportunities to lead initiatives that create positive change in their communities.
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SM Supermalls – 40th Anniversary
Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 88 malls in the Philippines—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences.
