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Free movie access privilege for SCs, PWDs in Laoag

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Laoag City—The SM Supermalls will give free access to movie screenings at their cinemas for senior citizens (SC) and persons with disabilities (PWD) exclusively for the city of Laoag City as an initiative not only to promote inclusivity and accessibility but also to enhance the overall well-being of these individuals for entertainment and social engagement.

Laoag Vice Mayor Rey Carlos Fariñas, the brainchild of the said program announced this after the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the Laoag government represented by outgoing Laoag Mayor Michael M. Keon and Fariñas, and the SM Supemalls officials,  represented by SM Cinema SAVP. Karen C. Zabaljaurequi and North 1-SM Supermalls Regional Operations Manager Rona B. Correa held June 23, 2025 at SM City Laoag. 

After the MOA signing, several SC’s and PWDs who also attended the MOA signing, had the chance to watch a movie right after the program.

Fariñas said that SM Cinema will allow SCs and PWDs to avail of the free movie privilege during the first and second day screening and limited to 100 persons every Mondays and Tuesdays only. 

This partnership stems from City Ordinance No. 2025-018, entitled “An Ordinance Granting Free Admission to Senior Citizens and Persons with Disabilities Residing in Laoag City in All Cinemas Operating Within the City on the First and Second Screenings on Mondays and Tuesdays.”

In 2010, the late former Laoag City Mayor Michael V. Fariñas played a pivotal role in securing land for the envisioned SM Supermall in Laoag City, recognizing its potential to drive economic growth and attract investors and over the course of nearly five years, he persistently engaged in negotiations with multiple lot owners, navigating complex discussions and legal considerations to facilitate the acquisition process.

The late mayor’s dedication to fostering development was evident in his strategic efforts to bring a major commercial establishment to the city, he diligently negotiated with multiple lot owners to facilitate the acquisition of approximately 80,000 square meters of land to transform Laoag into a thriving commercial hub, generating employment opportunities, enhancing local businesses, and elevating the city's overall development aiming to enhance local business opportunities, create employment, and boost Laoag's overall prosperity.

The SM City Laoag opened on May 30, 2025, the 88th establishment under SM Supermalls, and marked a significant milestone in its longstanding commitment to enriching Filipino communities, most notably the people of this city, has been a major driver of economic development creating 2,320 employment opportunities and fueling commercial expansion with 205 new business establishments.

As part of their commitment to corporate social responsibility and dedication to create a more supportive and community-based environment, SM Supermalls provides free movie screenings at their cinemas for SCs and PWDs of Laoag.

SM City Laoag remains steadfast in its dedication to innovation, customer service, and corporate social responsibility, ensuring that its presence continues to positively impact the lives and livelihoods of countless Laoagueños.(Dominic B. dela Cruz)

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