Mom's World of Arts and Happiness

   The SM Book Nook Reading Festival, held on January 31, 2025, at the Book Nook in SM Aura, drew 500 book lovers of all ages for a dynamic celebration of Filipino literature and creativity. From engaging author meet-and-greets to lively performances and informative workshops, the festival offered a rich array of literary experiences. (L-R): SM Cares Assistant Vice President Richard A. Caluyo, SM Book Nook Reading Festival co-organizer and BookShelfPH co-founder Monette Quiogue, and SM Aura Regional Operations Head Stephanie Co  Interactive storytelling and inspiration One of the festival's highlights was the launch of SM Book Nook's innovative "Pass the Plot" board. This interactive activity encouraged participants to co-create a story, sentence by sentence, showcasing their collective creativity. The "Pass the Plot" board at the SM Book Nook Reading Festival ignites collaborative storytelling, inviting participants to build a narrative sentence by sentenc...

  The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE) Philippines, a leading resilience network in the country, held its first annual general meeting for 2025 on January 27 at the ARISE Secretariat headquarters in MOA Square, Mall of Asia Complex. With a growing membership of 156 private sector companies, civil society groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic institutions, ARISE Philippines is poised to significantly impact disaster resilience efforts nationwide. ARISE Philippines Board Members (from left): Dr. Ma. Teresita Medado, Sylvestre Barrameda Jr., Austere Panadero, ARISE Philippines Co-Chair Engr. Liza Silerio, ARISE Global Board Member Vice Admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama, Raymond Rufino, and Michael Rellosa (not in photo: Rosemarie Rafael and Jessica Bianca Sy) Multi-sector representatives attend ARISE Philippines’ first Annual General Assembly in 2025. Member companies pledge...

Milksha, Taiwan’s beloved milk tea brand, proudly opens its first-ever concept store in the Philippines! Get ready for a delightful sip filled with pure, fresh, and natural milk tea creations made with the finest ingredients. Officially opening its doors at SM North EDSA, the Milksha concept store is inviting even more Filipinos to experience its fresh and most flavorful milk tea straight from Taiwan. Milksha has become a global sensation, celebrated for its commitment to quality and its dedication to crafting pure, fresh, and natural beverages. Each drink is hand-made with care–from the finest tea leaves to freshly made chewy honey pearls–to create a symphony of textures and flavors. By using only real ingredients and no powders, Milksha delivers a velvety creaminess and the bold, full-bodied taste of authentic tea, satisfying cravings and delighting taste buds with every sip . Fresh. Pure. Authentic. Milksha’s secret to success? It’s the flavors enhanced by special ingredient...

      SM North EDSA continues to redefine the shopping and dining scene with an exciting array of new tenants across its sprawling mall. Brimming with new experiences—from Milksha's first-ever concept store in the Philippines to exciting store openings—here’s what awaits you at The Block and beyond.   The Block: A Hub of Exciting New Stores   Step into The Block at SM North EDSA, where a fresh wave of stores and attractions awaits. From unique dining experiences to specialty shops and immersive adventures, The Block is your destination for exciting discoveries and memorable moments.     Tonkotsu Kazan (The Block, Ground Floor) Indulge in the rich flavors of authentic Japanese ramen at Tonkotsu Kazan, now serving its signature dishes at SM North EDSA. Known for its perfectly crafted noodles, flavorful broth, and tender roasted pork, this ramen house brings a dining experience steeped in tradition.   Every bowl is a cel...