By Ferdinand G. Patinio
MANILA, Sept. 6 (PNA) — A grand and festive event was recently held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City to mark the partnership between SM Group and Walt Disney Company South East Asia.
The five-year partnership aims to bring closer to Filipinos the Disney brand stories through mall, retail, entertainment and amusement opportunities.
“We are thrilled to be associated with the iconic Walt Disney Company. Mr. Henry Sy, Sr. envisioned and proposed a second home for Filipinos across the nation where they can create memorable bonding activities with their families through amusement facilities, retail centers, and food establishments, all found in one mall,” said Edgar Tejerro, president of SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc.
He added, “65 years later, and with 52 malls across the Philippines, it had just been high time that SM forged an official collaboration with the best family entertainment company in the world.”
The event was highlighted by performances by local Filipino artists Rhap Salazar and Morissette Amon together with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, Mandaluyong Children’s Choir rendered song numbers of well-known Disney classic hits.
Likewise, dance group Airdance Philippines performed in a Stars Wars inspired routine.
The partnership also aims to bring Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars brands to life through unique Disney experience at the mall-giant’s several leisure and entertainment properties.
For his part, Rob Gilby, Managing Director, Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia, said the collaboration sealed the plan to create magical moments and memories for Filipinos which they will treasure forever.
“Everyday, we make millions of Filipinos laugh and smile with our stories and characters from Disney, Marvel Pixar and Star Wars. We have worked with the various arms of SM group over the years and we are delighted to announce out collaboration on a comprehensive plan to create magical moments and memories that will last a lifetime for fans across the Philippines,” he said. (PNA)