SM Supermalls marks four decades of serving Filipino shoppers
It began with Henry Sy’s dream of making malls accessible to every Filipino. In 1985, SM North EDSA rose in Quezon City and paved the way for what would become the Philippines’ biggest mall empire. Four decades later, SM Supermalls marked its 40th year with a night of gratitude at the Conrad Manila.
The Sy family, joined by SM Supermalls president Steven Tan and top executives, welcomed tenants, partners, and longtime friends who have been part of the journey since the early years. The gathering had the warmth of a family reunion rather than a corporate affair.
In his speech, Tan reminded guests that the milestone was as much theirs as it was SM’s.
“Tonight is special, not only because we’re celebrating our 40th year, but because we’re celebrating it with you. For four decades, you’ve been with us every step of the way, and for that, maraming salamat,” he said.
Mia Branellac pose for a photo with Hans Sy, Jr.
The evening also looked forward, with Tan unveiling a line-up of new malls: SM Zamboanga, SM Sta. Rosa, SM Malolos, and the highly anticipated revival of SM Harrison Plaza. Each will follow the “glo-cal” formula—blending international retail names with flavors unique to their communities.
SM’s success is built on people as much as on buildings. With 88 malls across the country, the chain has become a hub of jobs, commerce, and community life. The word often associated with it is malasakit, which SM Supermalls defined as “a blend of care and connection that goes beyond shopping.”
The anniversary night itself captured that spirit. Under the theme Live at SM, it’s SM Supermalls 40th, the program unfolded like a variety show. Kaladkaren emceed, while Gab Pangilinan, Macoy Dubs, Baus Rufo, and Raco Ruiz brought laughs and music to the ballroom. Then came the night’s surprise: Japanese-American comedian Atsuko Okatsuka, who ditched the stage to mingle with guests, poking fun at anyone sporting a haircut close to her own signature bowl style.
Dinner was a spectacle in itself. Conrad Manila’s China Blue by Chef Jereme Leung laid out a feast featuring lobster and soft-shell crab, roasted duck, wok-fried US beef with Hunan pepper sauce, and his now-famous coconut mango sphere for dessert. Each dish was as indulgent as the occasion demanded.
In retrospect, SM has weathered crises, embraced digital change, and leaned into sustainability, all while keeping its malls relevant to the everyday lives of Filipinos. Their 40th anniversary celebration was a reminder that the journey is far from over.
