SM Supermalls and Viyline Media Group Join Forces for MSME Empowerment

Viyline Media Group (VMG) and SM Supermalls officially signed a strategic partnership on November 29, 2024, at SM Prime Headquarters at SM Mall of Asia Square. 

The partnership aims to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country, create opportunities to access a broader market and strengthen them in a competitive environment by 2025.

The special event was graced by SM and Viyline executives, who are committed and passionate about driving MSME success. 

Mrs. Viy Cortez-Velasquez, Chief Executive Officer of Viyline Media Group; Mr. Rolando Cortez, General Manager; and Mr. Karol Louie Mañalac, the VMG Department Head, were present during the official contract signing. They were joined by SM Supermalls’ Executive Vice President, Mr. Jonjon San Agustin; Ms. Pats Dy, Senior Assistant Vice President and Marketing Head for MSMEs; and Mr. Royston Cabuñag, Assistant Vice President.

A Legacy of Growth and Resilience

Mr. Royston Cabuñag started the event by delivering an inspiring speech and sharing SM’s rich history. He emphasized its humble beginnings as a small shoe store before becoming the retail giant it is today.

“At SM Supermalls, our SM for MSMEs program has always been driven by one clear goal: to support small and medium-sized businesses, as we started as a small business of selling shoes,” he quoted.

“And through this program, we provide MSMEs with the resources and opportunities to grow and thrive. Today, with Viyline, we take another significant step forward in that mission.”

Cabuñag added that SM and VMG aim to empower entrepreneurs, though they approach this goal from different viewpoints.

“Together, SM Supermalls and Viyline Media Group are strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Philippines. We’re not only helping influencers move from content creation to business ownership, but we are also creating new avenues for MSMEs to thrive in an ever-evolving market.”

“Most importantly, this partnership is about creating jobs and empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs—whether they come from the MSME sector or the influencer community.”

Cabuñag closed his address with hopeful anticipation of the partnership.

“Together, we look forward to building stronger businesses, creating more jobs, and forging deeper connections with the communities we serve. Mabuhay po kayo! Mabuhay po ang ating mga MSMEs!”

Empowering Dreams, Building a Mission

Mrs. Viy Cortez-Velasquez expressed her appreciation for Viyline Media Group‘s milestone of being selected as an official partner in MSME development.

“Isa pong malaking karangalan na makasama kayong lahat ngayon, at lalong napakalaking karangalan at opportunity para sa Viyline ang partnership na ito, kaya maraming maraming salamat po,” the VIYLine CEO said.

She also reflected on how her business started, recalling the challenges and triumphs that shaped her journey as an entrepreneur. 

“Nagsimula po ako bilang maliit na negosyante lang din, at ‘yung mga ganitong klaseng event at opportunity na sinasalihan ko noong nagsisimula palang ako ay isa sa mga nagpalakas ng loob ko at nagbigay sa akin ng pangarap na palaguin pa ang nasimulan ko.”

The vlogger and entrepreneur also expressed her commitment to continuously empowering MSMEs like her and promised that Viyline Media Group would do its best to accomplish the mission.

“Ang sarap sa pakiramdam na ako naman ang may pagkakataon na tulungan ang mga Micro, Small, at Medium Enterprise na ipakilala ang mga produkto nila sa mas maraming tao.”

“Makakaasa po kayo na gagawin namin ang aming best para isakatuparan ang ating vision na makatulong sa kapwa natin entrepreneurs.”

What is Viyline MSME Caravan?

The Viyline MSME Caravan is set to launch in 2025, aiming to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the Philippines.

This initiative will tour various SM Supermalls, providing local MSMEs a platform to showcase their products and connect to a wider market.

The caravan aims to boost the Philippine economy while inspiring and motivating Filipino entrepreneurs. For more information, follow VIYLine MSME Caravan’s official Facebook page.