The ceremonial opening marks the launch of Vinta Market, a
vibrant marketplace dedicated to showcasing proudly local products from MSMEs
across the Zamboanga Peninsula.
ZAMBOANGA
CITY, Philippines
— As SM City Zamboanga opened its doors on March 20, the vibrant spirit
of local entrepreneurship and culture took center stage with the unveiling of Vinta
Market, a colorful marketplace dedicated to supporting micro, small, and
medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the Zamboanga Peninsula.
Launched
in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 9
and the SM for MSMEs program, the Vinta Market brings together 20
local MSMEs, showcasing proudly regional products ranging from handcrafted
items and artisanal goods to local delicacies, fashion pieces, and unique
souvenirs.
SM Supermalls executives
and DTI Region 9 officials lead the ceremonial opening of the Vinta
Market at SM City Zamboanga, celebrating a new platform for local MSMEs. (L-R:
DTI Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Director, Ma. Rovie Manzanares; DTI Zamboanga
City Office Provincial Director, Grace Aduca; SM Supermalls AVP for SM
Communities Program, Royston Cabunag; DTI Regional Director Al-Zamir Lipae; SM
Supermalls SAVP for SM Communities Marketing, Pats Dy; DTI Assistant Regional Director, Maridel
Dengal; and SM Supermalls Executive Vice
President for Marketing, Joaquin San Agustin)
Inspired
by the iconic vinta, the traditional sailboat known for its vibrant
sails and deep cultural roots in Mindanao, the Vinta Market reflects the same
spirit of color, movement, and community. The marketplace brings together
passionate entrepreneurs and skilled artisans, offering mallgoers a lively and
meaningful shopping experience rooted in local culture.
More
than just a retail destination, the Vinta Market serves as a growth platform
for MSMEs—and for many entrepreneurs, this opportunity translates into real
business expansion and sustained livelihood.
“We are very happy for the opportunity given to us by SM City
Zamboanga… because of that, I have a growing market and a lot of suki na at
SM,” shared Maria Donna of Marya Soaps and Scents from Pagadian,
highlighting how increased visibility at SM has helped strengthen her customer
base.
For
heritage artisans, the impact goes beyond business—it’s about preserving
culture and passing traditions to future generations. “Maraming salamat sa mga opportunity na mga ganito na pwede kaming
magbenta para makahanap lalo ng market… kayo na ‘yung kasangga namin sa
pag-promote ng aming weave,” said Evelinda Otong, a 4th generation Yakan
weaver, underscoring the importance of platforms like SM in sustaining
local craftsmanship.
Through
capacity-building programs and expanded market access, MSMEs are also able to
scale their operations and reach wider audiences.
“With their trainings and seminars, we’ve learned a lot… we’re
proud to say that we supply all over the Philippines—and with SM Supermalls,
our products can reach around the country and are now in the mainstream
market,” shared Shaun Alavar of Alavar Food Products, reflecting the
broader growth opportunities enabled through the partnership.
Featured MSMEs proudly showcase their locally made products at
the Vinta Market, highlighting the passion and dedication behind every
creation.
During
the launch event, SM Supermalls executives, DTI officials, and partner
stakeholders joined entrepreneurs and guests in celebrating the opening of
the marketplace—highlighting a shared commitment to empower local businesses
and provide them with greater market opportunities.
Visitors
explored booths filled with proudly local products—each representing stories of
craftsmanship, passion, and perseverance. The marketplace quickly became a
vibrant hub where mallgoers discovered unique regional goods while supporting
local livelihoods.
Intricately crafted local products showcase the artistry and
cultural heritage of Mindanao’s talented artisans.
The
launch of Vinta Market stands as one of the highlights of the opening of SM
City Zamboanga, the city’s newest lifestyle destination bringing together
shopping, dining, entertainment, and community experiences closer to
Zamboangueños.
Locally made delicacies from MSMEs offer shoppers a taste of
Zamboanga’s rich culinary heritage at the Vinta Market.
Through
initiatives like the Vinta Market, SM Supermalls continues to champion
Filipino entrepreneurship, providing MSMEs with accessible platforms to
grow their businesses while celebrating the rich culture and creativity of
local communities.
As
shoppers explore the colorful stalls and meet the passionate makers behind the
products, the Vinta Market stands as a vibrant symbol of Zamboanga’s thriving
entrepreneurial spirit—where tradition, creativity, and opportunity sail
forward together.
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About SM Supermalls – MSMEs
SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and
operators with 89 malls nationwide—continues to maximize the MSME experience
by creating opportunities designed around what Filipino entrepreneurs need
most. As the country’s most preferred and loved retail destination, SM
champions entrepreneurship by supporting MSMEs across different stages and
sectors—serving diverse business tribes through market access, visibility,
mentorship, and platforms that help enterprises grow and thrive. From emerging
startups to growing homegrown brands, SM provides a marketplace where Filipino
innovation can flourish, connecting entrepreneurs to communities and customers
in meaningful ways. Because when MSMEs succeed, communities grow stronger—and
every opportunity created is part of SM’s commitment to building a future
designed All For You. To learn more, visit msme.smsupermalls.com
or email customercare@smsupermalls.com.
