SM partners with Walt Disney Southeast Asia

Last Wednesday (September 2), The SM Group announced its collaboration with The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia to bring the Disney brand of stories closer to Filipinos through mall, retail, entertainment and amusement opportunities.

The grand launch, dubbed as Something Magical Event, was held at the SM MOA Arena and featured performances by Morissette Amon, Rhap Salazar, Mandaluyong Children’s Choir and the Manila Symphony Orchestra.

The first to be launched by SM and Disney is Star Wars Galactic Christmas for the upcoming release of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” This is an exhibit that will showcase life size figurines of the characters from the iconic movie. Also to be featured are interactive games and products from SM Stores and Toy Kingdom in select SM Supermalls.

On hand to witness the grand launch were members of the Sy family, headed by Hans Sy, President of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., Edgar Tejerero, President of SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc., Rob Gilby, Managing Director of Walt Disney Co. Southeast Asia and Paul Canland, President of Disney Asia.

The two companies aim to bring Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars brands to life through unique Disney experiences at SM’s many leisure and entertainment properties. Fans can look forward to a host of innovative offerings including Disney branded events, promotions and other unique experiences themed around fan-favorite Disney brands and characters.

“We are thrilled to be associated with the iconic Walt Disney Company. Mr. Henry Sy Sr. envisioned and purposed a second home for Filipinos across the nation where they can create memorable bonding activities with their families through amusement facilities, retail centers, and food establishments, all found in one mall,” says Edgar Tejerero, president of SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc. “Sixty-five years later, and with 52 malls across the Philippines, it’s high time that SM forged an official collaboration with the best family entertainment company in the world.”

“Every day, we make millions of Filipinos laugh and smile with our stories and characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars. We have worked with the various arms of SM group over the years and today we are delighted to announce our collaboration on a comprehensive plan to create magical moments and memories that will last a lifetime for fans across the Philippines,” said Rob Gilby, Managing Director, The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia.

Both SM and Disney have given, and continue to give, customers happy lifetime memories across all generations. Both brands offer a legacy, a tradition, a way of life—a world that customers identify with and find attachment to. Through this partnership, SM will continue to create these experiences and bring the Disney magic closer to Filipinos.

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Michael Pangilinan, dubbed as the new Kilabot ng mga Kolehiyala, had admitted that he got his non-showbiz girlfriend pregnant.

But he is not the first, nor the last, singer-actor who has been in the same situation. If you recall, Gary Valenciano also got his girlfriend (now wife Angeli Pangilinan) pregnant at the time he was preparing for his first major concert. Gary admitted to the world that he was an expectant father, and if in so doing his career will be affected, then so be it. He was ready to face the consequences of his indiscretion. His audience loved Gary for his honesty and bravery. And his career did not get affected at all because he was man enough to own up to his responsibilities.

Same thing with Michael who is only 19, but he bravely admitted to being an expectant father. While he and the girl are no longer a couple, Michael will not be remiss in his responsibilities of providing for his child’s needs until he grows up. Yes, it did cross his mind that his career might suffer. You know, fans can be jealous and would only want their idol for themselves.

For sure, the fans of Michael were up in arms when he revealed he will be a father soon but if they really love him, his fans will understand. After all, his talent is all that matters to them. His fans will forgive and still support him. But he should also be cautious not to commit the same mistake.

What is good about Michael is that he is supported by his parents and his manager Jobert Sucaldito. They know that Michael needs their support at this time and they are behind him at all cost.

Since he is going to be a dad soon, this has inspired Michael to do well in his career. He is very much excited to compete in “Your Face Sounds Familiar” Season 2 which starts airing this Saturday on ABS-CBN.

Aside from Michael, joining Season 2 of YFSF are Sam Concepcion, KZ Tandingan, Eric Nicolas, Denise Laurel, Kean Cipriano, Myrtle Sarosa and Kakai Bautista. Hosts will be Billy Crawford and YFSF Season 1 winner Melai Cantiveros. The jury members are Gary Valenciano, Jed Madela and Ms. Sharon Cuneta.