TECNO Unveils Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 Jointly with Lonely Planet in Philippines

Calling on TECNO CAMON users nationwide to capture real life moments under the theme "Seeing is Believing" — with global travel awards and filipino special  prizes up for grabs.

Today, Lonely Planet, the world-renowned leader in travel advice, and TECNO, the AI-driven revolutionary technology company, announced the co-hosted Shot On CAMON Contest 2026, the third edition of TECNO's yearly worldwide photography competition. The partnership, which is based on a common spirit of inquiry and expression, takes the competition beyond technology to honor the individuals, locations, and narratives that go into each picture. TECNO and Lonely Planet hope to encourage people everywhere to see more, feel more, and communicate richer visual stories through professional co-judging, co-branded material, and photo-essay-style storytelling. One Lonely Planet photographer will participate on the final-round jury panel with TECNO's imaging team, and three Lonely Planet photographers will contribute original images taken with the CAMON 50 Series.

“Great photos are not just about equipment – they are about how deeply the photographer can immerse themselves in a destination. TECNO’s technology makes that immersion easier, helping users stay present, observe more closely and capture meaningful moments as they happen. We are excited to partner on Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 and look forward to seeing how photographers around the world bring their journeys to life.” ~Melissa Killian, Vice President of Integrated Marketing at Lonely Planet

This year's competition, with the subject "Seeing is Believing," will take place from May 15 to October 11, 2026, and it invites smartphone photographers from all over the world to use the TECNO CAMON 50 Series to capture genuine, stunning, and unique moments. TECNO's call to appreciate the authenticity of real life through photography, honoring a variety of skin tones, transient emotions, and real-world observations, is the topic for a year that is becoming more and more shaped by AI. Users are encouraged to begin with genuine observation and self-expression, even in the contest's AI category, which begins with a real photograph.

TECNO Philippines Welcomes Kelvinmarkulit as CAMON Photography Ambassador

Kelvinmarkulit, a well-known Filipino visual storyteller renowned for his unvarnished portrayals of daily Filipino life, has been named the official CAMON Photography Ambassador for the Philippine leg of the competition by TECNO Philippines in an effort to further stoke local enthusiasm for authentic mobile photography. Kelvin will have a variety of responsibilities, including co-creating a call-out video to encourage Filipino producers to enter the competition, acting as a regional judge to choose the best entries from around the nation, and participating in the exclusive winner's journey. His collaboration with TECNO is more than just a celebrity endorsement; it sends a strong message to Filipino photographers that genuine, heartfelt local tales can be seen on a worldwide scale. A new generation is inspired to believe that anyone can turn the ordinary into the unforgettable with observation, emotion, and the appropriate tool by Kelvin's own path from capturing candid street encounters to gaining international notoriety. Kelvin's personal journey, from photographing candid street scenes to receiving international acclaim, inspires a new generation to believe that with observation, emotion, and the correct tool, anyone can transform the ordinary into the unforgettable.

Five Creative Categories That Celebrate New Ways of Seeing

The five categories of Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 are designed to inspire different ways of seeing, encouraging participants to capture real moments, emotions and perspectives from everyday life and travel.

• Faces·Unfiltered – This category celebrates authentic portraits that reflect people as they really are, capturing diverse skin tones and individuality in a quiet close-up, a candid street portrait, or a moment shared between friends.
• Night·Unveiled – This category invites participants to capture the atmosphere, mystery and emotion that emerge after dark, from neon-lit streets and reflections after rain to still moonlit scenes and late-night city life. 
• Culture·Unscripted – This category focuses on capturing the rhythm of a place as it naturally unfolds, whether through festivals, crafts, food moments or unplanned interactions between people.
• Snapshot·Unspotted (Telephoto Special) – Participants are invited to capture distant details that reveal something surprising, intimate or easily overlooked, from textures on far-off peaks to a fleeting expression within a crowd.
• AI·Unimagined (AI Gallery Special) – First capture a real-world photo with a TECNO phone, then transform it into an artistic style using TECNO’s AI Gallery. Both the original photograph and the AI-styled image must be submitted together. This category is designed to explore how AI can extend creative expression while keeping real-world photography as the starting point. 

“‘Seeing is Believing’ is both a creative brief for our contestants and a reminder that the most powerful images begin with real life. Through Shot On CAMON Contest 2026, we hope to inspire users around the world to observe more closely, express themselves more freely and celebrate the beauty of authentic moments through photography.” ~Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO

Awards, Honors and How to Enter

Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 will award outstanding work throughout its major award tiers with cash awards and special travel rewards provided by Lonely Planet in order to acknowledge remarkable innovation. The chosen victors will go off on a carefully planned expedition to discover the wonders—to experience is to believe, and miracles can only be fully witnessed.

One exceptional photographer will receive the TECNO Photography Master prize ($8,000) as a prize for the competition. In addition, the Gold Prize ($3,000), Silver Prize ($2,000), and Bronze Prize ($1,000) will each have five winners. Additionally, ten entrants will be chosen as TECNO Friends and given a CAMON 50 Series smartphone. The five Gold Prize winners and the TECNO Photography Master will also receive an invitation to a customized trip to the Philippines as a special incentive.

Special "Filipino Special Award" – Exclusive for Philippine Participants

To honor and reward regional creative talent, TECNO Philippines is launching the Filipino Special Award in addition to the international awards. Filipino users can upload videos (via TikTok and Instagram/Facebook Reels) or photographs (standard entry). Video submissions will automatically be evaluated for the Filipino Special Award, but they are regarded as informal entries and are not eligible for international honors. A Lonely Planet Bespoke Trip and a CAMON 50 Series smartphone will be awarded to the six other winners who will be selected as CAMON Photography Endorsers in the Philippines. There will be one prize from video submissions and five wins from image submissions (from any of the five contest categories). TECNO Philippines' dedication to honoring local visual storytellers—whether they capture a moment in time or bring it to life via motion—is demonstrated by this unique prize.

How to Enter

To enter, participants should post photos with a visible TECNO device watermark on Instagram using the hashtags #ShotOnCAMON2026 #TECNOCAMON50Series and #TECNOPhilippines, then submit high-resolution versions via email at shotoncamon@tecnomobile.com or through the ShotOnCAMON Gallery on TECNO’s Philippines official website. All entries must be original content and duplicate submissions will be disqualified. Winning works will be showcased in global media exhibitions, the TECNO annual photo book, and across TECNO’s official platforms.

For full contest rules and details, visit Shot On CAMON Contest 2026 or follow on Instagram.

About TECNO

TECNO is an innovative, AI-driven technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOS operating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing,” TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.

Play, Move, and Chill at SM Supermalls this Summer

The SM Active Hub brings the community together, where every step, sprint, and shared moment lets you Gala To The Max with a maxed-out experience at SM Supermalls.

Gather your crew for pickleball, runs, and refreshing coolers to beat the heat.

This summer, your most-loved SM Supermalls turn up the energy with experiences designed for every kind of barkada. At the heart of it all is the SM Active Hub—a growing community of movers, players, and fitness enthusiasts—bringing together activities that let you truly Gala To The Max.

Dive into Summer Play with the SM Active Hub

The SM Active Hub sets the tone for a season filled with movement, connection, and fun. Fresh from celebrating its first anniversary with a series of activities across select SM malls last April 11 to 12, the community continues to build momentum with even more ways to stay active all summer long.

Whether you're picking up a new sport or leveling up your routine, the SM Active Hub brings together experiences that make every visit more dynamic and engaging—giving you more ways to Gala To The Max this summer.

Join the Pickleball Mania

Rally, compete, and connect at the SM Active Hub’s pickleball courts, where every match is a chance to Gala To The Max.

Pickleball takes center stage with a lineup of activities at SM Supermalls, from beginner-friendly clinics to regular tournaments and free-play sessions. Step onto the court, rally with fellow players, and enjoy the fast-growing sport in a lively and welcoming environment.

With guidance from experienced coaches, even first-timers can quickly get into the game, making every match an exciting way to connect and compete.

Dash into Summer Runs

From first-timers to seasoned runners, SM Supermalls’ summer runs offer something for everyone. With categories for all ages and skill levels, each event is a chance to stay active, celebrate milestones, and be part of a vibrant running community.

Finish strong and look forward to exciting rewards waiting at the finish line.

Play it your way this summer

Glide, ride, and train your way through summer. Make every moment count and Gala To The Max at SM Supermalls.

From courts to open spaces, SM Supermalls brings even more ways to stay active and in the moment. Jump into games of basketball, volleyball, badminton, or table tennis, or take your skills further with karate, taekwondo, arnis, and gymnastics sessions happening across select malls.Glide, ride, and train your way through summer. Make every moment count and Gala To The Max at SM Supermalls.

For those looking for something different, you can hit strikes at the bowling lanes, glide into skating sessions, or sharpen your aim with archery and billiards. Cycling enthusiasts can take on biking activities, while football and soccer matches keep the energy going across the field. Even e-sports fans can get in on the action with competitive gaming experiences.

Whether you're trying something new or sticking to your sport, it’s all part of a summer where you can move freely, play fully, and Gala To The Max.

Level up the fun at SM Game Park

From shooting hoops to bowling strikes and trying your hand at archery, every corner of SM Game Park brings a new way to bond, compete, and have fun with your barkada.

Step into a world of non-stop action at SM Game Park, where friendly competition meets feel-good moments. From bowling and billiards to arcade favorites, it is the perfect spot to challenge your barkada or take a break in between activities. Whether you are aiming for a strike or chasing a new high score, every visit brings a reason to celebrate small wins together.

Rock your best Summer Fits

From workouts to weekend galas, find activewear that keeps up with your pace so you can move in style all season long at SM Supermalls.

From workouts to weekend galas, SM Supermalls makes it easy to stay stylish and comfortable all season long. Discover activewear and essentials from Sports Central, Wilson, and Decathlon, perfect for keeping up with your summer plans.

Complete your look at the Summer Bazaar, where sweat-friendly gear, bucket hats, and must-have accessories come with exciting deals and promos.

The Groove Dance Showdown

For those who love to move, SM Supermalls transforms into a vibrant dance space filled with rhythm and energy. Join workshops, learn new routines, and take the spotlight as you bring your best moves to the floor.

Refresh your senses with Summer Coolers

Cool down and recharge with refreshing treats, from milk tea to halo-halo favorites, perfect for a well-earned break in your maxed-out summer.

After a full day of activities, cool down with refreshing treats that hit just right. Indulge in creamy gelato from Caramia or rich chocolate creations from Venchi, perfect for a well-earned break.

For something lighter, enjoy freshly brewed milk tea from Chi Cha San Chen or delicate Japanese treats from Warabi Mochi Kamakura. You can also go for a Filipino favorite with a twist at Bebang’s Halo-Halo or recharge with handcrafted drinks from Super Matcha.

The summer experience gets even better with the SM Coolers Fest 2026, happening from May 15 to 31 across participating SM malls. From halo-halo and fruit shakes to iced coffee and specialty beverages, the festival brings together a wide selection of refreshing treats from mall tenants and MSMEs.

Customers can also explore these favorites through SM Malls Online, making it easy to enjoy coolers anytime, anywhere. In select malls, Coolers Fest Market booths offer an expanded and vibrant on-ground experience.

From active moments at the SM Active Hub to refreshing breaks and everyday discoveries, everything comes together for a maxed-out experience made for kids, families, and barkadas.

Make it a summer to play, move, and chill—only at your most-loved SM Supermalls.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

Stronger Futures Start Here as Job Opportunities Open Nationwide This Labor Day

This Labor Day, SM continued empowering community opportunities as multiple Job Fairs were mounted across 15 venues nationwide. This brought together 650 employers and 17,400 jobseekers, with more than 1,000 Filipinos hired on the spot—a powerful reflection of how accessible, community-based platforms can deliver real employment outcomes.

But beyond the numbers are real stories—of courage, determination, and new beginnings.

Across multiple SM malls, thousands of Filipinos walked in carrying resumes—and walked out with something more: real opportunities, renewed confidence, and for many, a fresh start. The SM Job Fair once again served as a platform for employment, connecting jobseekers, employers, and government partners in one convenient, community-centered space at their most-loved SM Supermalls.

Moments like these echoed throughout the day, as hiring booths became spaces of possibility—where interviews led to immediate job offers, and uncertainty turned into hope.

SM Job Fairs continue to stand out for their accessibility and efficiency. From application to interview—and even the processing of government requirements—everything is made available in one place, allowing jobseekers to focus on what matters most: securing their future.

Beyond employment, SM continues to strengthen its role in workforce development by introducing upskilling opportunities—including digital and AI learning sessions in partnership with institutions such as the Department Information and Communications Technology. These initiatives aim to help jobseekers stay competitive in an evolving job market, reinforcing the shift from job access to job readiness.

Through strong collaboration with government agencies, employers, and institutional partners, SM Job Fairs continue to demonstrate how public-private partnerships can drive meaningful, real-world impact. 

As the day came to a close, what remained were not just filled job positions—but stories of resilience, determination, and new beginnings.

Because at SM Supermalls, it’s not just about bringing people together—it’s about helping them move forward.

About SM Supermalls – Job Fairs

SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s leading mall developers—brings employment opportunities closer to Filipinos through accessible job fairs in malls nationwide. As the country’s most preferred and loved retail destination, SM creates job fair experiences designed for different job seeker tribes—from fresh graduates and career shifters to experienced professionals—connecting them with employers and opportunities that match their goals. Through strong partnerships with government and industry, SM continues to empower Filipinos and strengthen communities—creating pathways to employment All For You.

Your Vibe, Your Tribe: SM Supermalls Drops New Anthem “Gala To The Max” by DNA

SM Supermalls released its newest anthem, “Gala To The Max,” performed by the rising girl group DNA. 

Forget the usual mall run; it’s time for a total vibe check. SM Supermalls, in an electrifying partnership with StarPop, has officially pulled the curtain back on its newest anthem, “Gala To The Max.” Performed by the rising group DNA, the track is more than just a catchy earworm; it’s a tribute to the way we hang out today.

The message is clear: SM isn't just a place to buy things. It’s your "third space." It’s where you meet the crew, find your community, and—as the song says—live life to the max at your most loved mall.

More Than a Destination, It’s a Mood.“Gala To The Max” captures the essence of what it means to visit SM. Whether you’re there for a fitness milestone, a deep dive into your favorite fandom, a gaming marathon, or just a chill afternoon with your furbabies, SM remains the ultimate backdrop for every subculture.

SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing JonJon San Agustin emphasizes that the mall is an extension of the shoppers' identity.

"At SM, we’ve always been about creating spaces where memories are made. With ‘Gala To The Max,’ we’re celebrating that unique energy our shoppers bring. It’s about your vibe and your tribe. Whether you're here to play, shop, or just hang out, we want you to feel that this is your space, the most loved mall that truly fits your lifestyle." ~JonJon San Agustin, SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing 

The Soundtrack to Your Next LSS

Produced alongside StarPop, the track features the high-energy vocals of DNA, a trio of sisters composed of Ezri, Julia, and Tasha. The song is designed to be the definitive background score for every TikTok transition and weekend hangout.

DNA members and real-life sisters (from left) Ezri, Tasha, and Julia could not hide their excitement as they brought to life (and ears) SM Supermalls’ newest jingle.

Join the Movement  

The official rollout begins this weekend across all SM malls nationwide. With more music and more reasons to stay longer than you planned, SM is officially calling on the community to show off their moves. Come as you are, bring your tribe, and show the world how you gala to the max.  

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 8 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

The Ultimate Summer Play with SM Supermalls x Tiktok Live

In this heat, the aircon is definitely calling! Summer came alive as 24,000+ viewers at SM Supermalls x TikTok LIVE transformed everyday malling into a fully immersive, real-time experience! Marking the first of many LIVE collaborations, #SummerPlayatSM brought some of your most-loved creators like Iñigo Jose, Sean Tristan, and more to vibe check the ultimate summer hangouts here at your most loved SM! 

Rooted in the idea that summer is best enjoyed together, #SummerPlayatSM aimed to bring the summer fun no matter where they are as creators invited audiences to tag along as they explored and discovered their next move LIVE.

This new interactive experience set the tone for a new era of malling. One where discovery, connection, and community seamlessly come together both on-ground and on-screen here in your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls–All For You!

Play All Day, LIVE!

The ultimate weekend plan finally turned into reality as creators brought their audiences straight into the action, turning SM North EDSA into an interactive playground in real time! With spontaneous challenges, audiences dictated the next move. Iñigo Jose joined in the fun as he experienced different summer activities that’s both enjoyable and certified barkada-ready within the mall! 

The livestream seamlessly blended on-ground action into real-time audience interaction.

Iñigo’s competitive energy kicked things off at SM Bowling until Space & Time Cube at The Block, where every throw came with a daring twist thanks to dares from viewers and players he met along the way. Safe to say, the whole end-to-end SM North EDSA run felt like one big barkada hang—with the audience calling the shots every step of the way!

Fit Check, LIVE!

Summer style took center stage with Sean Tristan as our LIVE audience became his main stylist for the day.

Moving through the SM Store, Decathlon, and a quick pass through Toby Sport’s Pickleball Super Series, Sean Tristan invited viewers to curate his looks in real time, from brunch-ready fits to sporty looks with gear perfect for the season.

Summer Fun That’s All For You

It wasn’t just a livestream, it was fully interactive, both online and on-ground. As comments and reactions rolled in, viewers became part of the action, with game passes and SM Malls Online vouchers dropping throughout. Every interaction became a chance to win, turning viewers into active participants.

This marks one of many collaborations between SM Supermalls and TikTok LIVE, bringing malling into a more dynamic digital space. By turning everyday moments into livestream experiences, SM is redefining how audiences engage with mall culture, now accessible anytime, anywhere.

As the partnership grows, mall events continue to evolve into livestream experiences where creators spotlight top tenants and viewers shape the experience in real time.

As your most loved mall, SM Supermalls continues to be a space where people connect, discover, and share authentic moments, bringing the energy of malling into the digital world.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving for a new era shaped by how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

The Spectrum in Southeast Asia: SM Cares and the Autism Society Philippines (ASP)

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP), together with SM Cares and its partners, gathered 47,500 allies and advocates nationwide together at the ASP Angels Walk for Autism last April 26, 2026. The record-breaking attendance this year reflects the growing support for the Autism Community through collective programs and efforts done by SM Cares and the ASP in forging an Autism-OK Philippines. 

For close to two decades, SM hosted the ASP Angels Walk as a celebration that aims to turn a long-standing advocacy into a meaningful celebration of inclusion, dignity, and hope. This year's celebration further expanded this advocacy by empowering communities through simultaneous walks across SM's most-loved malls nationwide. 

“ASP Angels Walk reminds us that inclusion is about creating space, and more importantly, making people feel that they truly belong. At SM, we are honored to walk united with the autism community—their families and fellow advocates who have long shown us the power of courage and perseverance. This commitment is about pursuing transformative inclusivity: empowering communities until every person is seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.” ~Steven Tan, President, SM Supermalls

 

Barrier-free inclusion and transformative action

This year's theme “Aumbitious. Aarangkada. Aangat.”, encouraged like-minded advocates to turn aspirations and conversations on impactful inclusivity into actions that are not only felt but are transformative. 

To prepare for the event the SM Mall of Asia Arena’s venue team underwent specialized training from the Department of Tourism called "Barrier-Free Tourism Kaya Natin." The comprehensive session focused on enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for customers on the spectrum ensuring their safety and wellbeing while in the premises.

This year’s event was also made special through the recognition of meaningful partners in the advocacy, including SM Book Nook, which was honored as ASP Autism Works Partner of the Year. The distinction reflects how inclusive community spaces can help open more opportunities for learning, engagement, and belonging. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte was also recognized with the Hans T. Sy Leadership Award for Autism Inclusion and Welfare, honoring leadership that supports the autism community in meaningful and lasting ways.

 

Collaborative Advocacy

Since its inception, the ASP Angels Walk has grown into a long-standing movement that champions inclusion and advances the vision of an Autism-OK Philippines. The movement is reinforced by SM's pursuit of becoming a truly inclusive Mall for All—accepting, accommodating, and appreciative of customers no matter what their needs may be.

As a continuing partner of ASP, SM Cares remains committed to building spaces and programs that support the autism community throughout the year. With sustained initiatives in inclusion, accessibility, and community engagement, SM continues to stand with individuals on the spectrum and their families—always working toward a future where no one is left behind.

Held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City and simultaneously in SM City Bacolod, SM City Baguio, SM City Butuan, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM City Davao, SM City Iloilo, SM City Lipa, SM City Lucena, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Tuguegarao, and Virac Town Plaza, this year’s ASP Angels Walk continued to unite communities across the country in support of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

 

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

 

About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement. 

GRWM! Fashion & Lifestyle Fits to Start the Vibe Right in the Metro at SM Supermalls

Future football stars take the spotlight at SM City Laoag as kids bring energy and skill to the game.

GRWM! Fashion & Lifestyle Fits to Start the Vibe Right in the Metro at SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls marked the first anniversary of SM Active Hub with a nationwide activation across its malls, transforming them into the largest playground in the country and the biggest shared space for movement in one synchronized day.

Play goes full throttle at SM City Clark as families dive into the energy of SM Active Hub with movement, fun, and connection in one space.

Launched a year ago, SM Active Hub set out to change how people experience malls. Not just as places to shop, but as spaces to move, connect, and live fully. This vision scaled across the entire network.

Kids take the lead at the Push Bike Competition at SM City Bicutan during the nationwide celebration of the SM Active Hub anniversary.

On April 11, SM Active Hub brought “One Day, Every Mall, One Movement” to life. From sunrise to sunset, malls nationwide hosted runs, rallies, and free-play sessions, turning SM into the largest playground in the country for one synchronized day. Main celebrations took place at SM Mall of Asia and SM North EDSA, anchoring a coordinated, high-energy experience across the country.

Energy spikes at SM City La Union as players bring the heat to beach volleyball, powering the momentum of SM Active Hub.

SM maximizes every space to build the largest playground in the country, where movement is shared and accessible. Across its malls, Filipinos engage in running, pickleball, ice hockey, figure skating, basketball, volleyball, biking, and football, drawing both seasoned athletes and first-time participants.

Momentum builds at SM Mall of Asia as runners take over the bay during the SM Active Hub anniversary weekend, turning every stride into a celebration of movement.

Running remains a core pillar. In 2026, SM activates 24 malls with dedicated running paths, supported by 45 running clubs and 55 running events. What used to be solo is now social. Partnerships continue to scale the platform, with Runrio leading the Philippine Marathon Majors, including the Manila leg and the 42-kilometer EDSA Marathon on Independence Day.

Pickleball and fitness racing expanded the ecosystem. SM Active Hub featured 12 permanent and 13 semi-permanent pickleball courts, accelerating one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. SM North EDSA hosted the Toby’s Pickleball Superseries, while SM Mall of Asia staged fitness racing events for both competitive and casual participants, with both activations happening on April 11 as part of the anniversary.

The platform now operates at national scale, connecting thousands of participants, partner brands, and sports communities. This drove repeat participation, longer dwell time, and deeper engagement across malls.

Intensity peaks at SM Mall of Asia as athletes push limits in fitness racing, driving the competitive spirit of SM Active Hub.

The anniversary highlighted “Free Play, Full Fun,” opening activities to families, barkadas, and walk-in mallgoers with no barriers to entry. During Free Play Weekend on April 11 to 12, malls nationwide hosted pickleball, running, bowling, table tennis, Zumba, karatedo, chess, dance fitness, karate, biking, football, basketball, volleyball and taekwondo, turning everyday mall visits into active, shared experiences.

SM Active Hub sustains the momentum beyond the anniversary, with sports activations continuing throughout the summer across all SM Supermalls. A full calendar of runs, pickleball sessions, fitness classes, community tournaments, the Groove Dance Showdown, and Summer Sports Clinic keeps the platform active and accessible, driving repeat visits and sustained engagement while positioning SM as the go-to destination for movement and play during the season.

Game on at SM City Lipa as NU Lipa basketball players lead the action with speed, precision, and control on the court.

SM Supermalls continues to evolve the modern third space, integrating retail, wellness, and social connection into one ecosystem. For Gen Z and Gen Alpha, participation is social, shareable, and community-driven.

A pickleball tournament brought the heat to the courts at SM North EDSA, rallying players and spectators for a full day of fast-paced action.

“This is movement at scale. We design spaces where communities gather, stay active, and experience life to the max.” ~Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls

Free Play Weekend ran alongside the anniversary activities.

Precision and discipline take center stage as young athletes showcase taekwondo at SM City Masinag.

As part of its Here to Move campaign, SM Active Hub welcomed Canadian National Champion and PPA Tour athlete Mackonner Dy for a multi-mall tour from April 9 to 12, reinforcing its push to grow pickleball in the Philippines and expand access to international-level play.

All smiles as Canadian National Champion and PPA Tour athlete Mackonner Dy joins Pickleball for Kids at the pickleball court of SM City Sta. Mesa during the SM Active Hub Anniversary.

SM Active Hub extended beyond the mall through the SM Malls Online app, its official digital companion. Users accessed event schedules, registered for activities, unlocked rewards, and stayed updated on runs, pickleball sessions, and fitness events across all SM malls. It centralized the experience, turning every visit into a connected, on-demand journey.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 8 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM.