In a meaningful step toward strengthening local enterprises, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and SM Supermalls formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on July 1, 2025, at the SM Supermalls Headquarters in Pasay City.
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| L-R: Royston A. Cabunag, Assistant Vice President and Lead for MSME and Job Fairs, Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls formalized partnership through a MOA signing with CDA Chairperson Usec. Alexander B. Raquepo and CDA Administrator Asec. Santiago S. Lim, that aims to empower Filipino cooperatives through the SM Weekend Market initiative. |
The MOA was signed by CDA Chairperson Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo and SM Supermalls Vice President for Mall Operations Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, alongside key leaders from both institutions.
“This is a historic partnership between the private and public sectors,” shared Usec. Raquepo. “It’s a powerful step forward in uplifting our micro, small, and medium cooperative entrepreneurs—helping expand market access while improving the economic well-being of our communities.”
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| Fresh, proudly Filipino produce takes the spotlight supporting local farmers and cooperatives at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Calamba. |
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| Local farmers showcase and sell their fresh harvest to shoppers at the SM Weekend Market, a platform by SM Supermalls that connects producers directly to consumers in high-traffic mall locations. |
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| Shoppers enjoy direct access to farm-fresh produce at the SM Weekend Market where farmers are given dedicated selling spaces in select SM Supermalls. |
Under the agreement, CDA will endorse qualified cooperatives nationwide to join the SM Weekend Market, while SM Supermalls will provide designated retail spaces in key mall locations for a minimal fee—covering only essential maintenance.
“The SM Weekend Market was born from a simple but impactful idea: to help farmers and cooperative producers reach more people, especially in spaces they rarely have access to,” said Engr. Eusebio. “Through this partnership with CDA, we’re opening more mall doors across the country, allowing communities to thrive and Filipino-made products to shine.”
This initiative officially kicks off a nationwide partnership between CDA and SM Supermalls, with more market rollouts and opportunities for cooperatives expected in the coming months.
About the SM Weekend Market
The SM Weekend Market is a community-driven platform that offers farmers and cooperatives direct access to high-footfall mall spaces, enabling them to sell fresh produce and local goods quickly, sustainably, and profitably.
More than a retail space, it’s a mission-driven initiative that champions:
- đź’Ľ Grassroots entrepreneurship
- 🍅 Stronger local food systems
- 🤝 Meaningful community connections
By bridging local producers with urban shoppers, the SM Weekend Market creates inclusive growth and celebrates the vibrant spirit of Filipino enterprise.
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