Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In a sweeping display of industry dominance and visionary leadership, SM Supermalls has ascended to the highest peak of corporate recognition. At the prestigious 2026 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards held in Macao, the retail giant was crowned Organization of the Year, solidifying its status as a benchmark for innovation and customer excellence across the region.
The victory was nothing short of a landslide. SM Supermalls captured a staggering 30 awards in total, amassing 52 award points through a collection of four Gold, 13 Silver, and 13 Bronze Stevies. This milestone marks the second time the company has claimed the top "Organization of the Year" honor, a testament to its relentless pursuit of a "maxed-out" experience for its millions of patrons.
A Mission Beyond Retail: Innovation with Purpose
Accepting the award on behalf of the company's delegations from both the Philippines and China, Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin L. San Agustin emphasized that the accolade belongs to the community.
“This is a testament to how we continue to evolve and innovate to deliver a truly maxed-out experience for our customers. We dedicate this to the millions of our customers back home, as well as to our tenant partners and employees who make these experiences possible”.
The 2026 triumph highlights SM's transformation from a traditional shopping destination into a dynamic hub of sustainability, social good, and cultural creativity.
The Pillars of a Regional Powerhouse
SM’s award-winning strategy is anchored in four transformative areas:
Environmental Stewardship: Through the SM Green Movement, the company has embedded sustainability into its core operations—utilizing solar-powered rooftops, spearheading international coastal cleanups, and championing water conservation.
Inclusive Communities: "Mall for All" isn't just a slogan; it's a practice. Programs like Movies for the Blind and nationwide job fairs ensure that mall experiences are accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability or economic status.
Cultural Destinations: SM has turned the mall into a stage for local heritage. From Mindanao Art and Konnichiwa Japan to the world-class Philippine International Pyromusical Competition, the malls serve as vibrant cultural epicenters.
Nurturing the Next Generation: Family connection remains the heart of the SM experience. Platforms like the SM Super Spelling Bee and SM Little Stars provide stages for young talent to shine.
Redefining the Horizon: Expansion and Global Reach
The Stevie Awards also recognized SM's aggressive and thoughtful expansion. The 2025 openings of SM City Laoag and SM City La Union were highlighted for their ability to reflect local identity—most notably through La Union's unique "Mallseum".
This excellence extends far beyond Philippine shores. In China, SM’s portfolio continues to flourish with locally resonant campaigns. From the wellness-driven "Bean There, Beat That Stress!" in Jinjiang to the whimsical storytelling of "The Frog Prince" in Chengdu, SM China continues to deliver immersive, lifestyle-driven experiences.
A Legacy in Motion
Today, SM Supermalls stands as one of Southeast Asia’s largest developers, operating 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China. As it enters this new era, the "Organization of the Year" title serves as a powerful reminder that SM is no longer just a place to shop—it is an everyday destination designed around the passions and lives of the communities it serves.
