The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena was named Sports Venue of the Year at the 6th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards. The world-class venue for sports, entertainment, and cultural events was recognized for its significant role in hosting premier local and international sporting events.
Arnel Gonzales, senior assistant vice president and general manager of the SM MOA Arena, received the award during the ceremony, which highlighted the venue’s contribution to positioning the Philippines as a hub for global sports tourism.
Since its inauguration, the SM MOA Arena has hosted numerous landmark sporting events. Among its milestones is the NBA Global Games in 2013, featuring the Indiana Pacers and Houston Rockets. It has also served as a venue for the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Asia Championships, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Fight Night in 2015, and the International Premier Tennis League.
In 2023, the arena was a key site for the FIBA Basketball World Cup group and final stages, where Germany clinched victory against Serbia. Earlier that year, it hosted the Volleyball Nations League (VNL), drawing global volleyball fans.
On the domestic front, the arena has been the stage for annual tournaments such as the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), and the Philippine Volleyball League (PVL). It has also embraced e-sports, hosting tournaments for games like Dota 2 and Mobile Legends.
The SM MOA Arena has invested $4.5 million in upgrades over the past four years to enhance its LED displays, lighting, seating, and acoustics to meet global standards.
This year, MOA Arena is set to host the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers and the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) Men’s World Championship.
