New SM mall empowers Batangas entrepreneurs

Located near the scenic Mount Makiling, SM City Sto. Tomas marks a significant milestone in SM’s expansion plans.

The new mall, conveniently located south of Manila, caters not only to Santo Tomas residents but also serves as a gateway to nearby areas in Laguna and Quezon.

It’s the fourth SM mall in Batangas, following the successful launches of SM City Batangas, SM City Lipa and SM Center Lemery.

SM Investments Corp. president and chief executive Frederic DyBuncio highlights the potential in regional development, citing unexplored areas that offer immense growth possibilities for diverse businesses.

“The regions are providing a lot of growth potential for all of our businesses as we continue to expand in many underserved areas,” said DyBuncio.

Santo Tomas City Mayor Arth Jhun Marasigan said the mall’s arrival has brought a wave of positive change to the community.

“Many of our residents have found opportunities to open their own businesses within the mall and its surrounding areas. The provision of employment brought by its opening has catered to thousands of job-seekers, most especially Tomasinos, and, in turn, has impacted the city’s economy,” he said.

The SM Group is a major job provider, with new projects like malls and stores creating local employment opportunities. Watsons Philippines, an SM affiliate, boasts of an 80-percent Santo Tomas workforce. Similarly, Tomasinos make up a significant portion of the staff at SM Supermarket, Sports Central Inc., Surplus and Ace Hardware.

“SM Supermalls is committed to being more than just a destination for shopping, but a pillar of community growth and development. We view ourselves as partners in the areas where we operate, helping create jobs and livelihood opportunities to spur economic progress,” said SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, emphasizing their commitment to community development.

Homegrown brands

For Batangas resident Sherwin Libuit, owning a restaurant at SM City Sto. Tomas isn’t just about business; it’s a chance to share the region’s iconic noodle delicacy – the Batangas lomi.

Before becoming an SM tenant, Libuit used to frequent SM malls, spending his time as a regular patron. Witnessing mall operations as a mall “tambay” inspired him to become the entrepreneur he is now.

“To me, SM isn’t merely a business partner; it’s also a silent supporter that played a crucial role in turning my modest vision into reality,” he said.

Juddie’s Bulalohan owner Juddie Alegre has long held the dream of serving her signature nilagang bulalo in a mall. Her opportunity came when SM City Sto. Tomas offered her a spot in the food court.

“That was always my dream. And it’s even made more special because we were able to open it in SM,” she said.

Lubuit and Alegre represent countless Tomasinos who now have opportunities closer to home. SM City Sto. Tomas mall provides comfort, convenience and community, becoming a hub for locals to relax and connect with loved ones, said Mayor Marasigan.