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.
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.
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