Universal Accessibility by Design and Practice earns SM Group 23 industry distinctions

 For millions of Filipinos, a trip to the local SM mall is more than just a quick errand or shopping spree. It’s a weekly tradition—a place where families gather over weekend lunches, friends meet up after school or work, milestones are celebrated, and vibrant communities come alive. But for an environment to truly serve as a communal space, it must be welcoming to everyone, regardless of their physical abilities or mobility needs.

Recognizing this vital responsibility, the SM Group has long placed accessibility and inclusivity at the heart of its property development and operations. Driven by its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm, SM Cares, the conglomerate continues to cultivate spaces where Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) can navigate freely, comfortably, and with dignity.

This unwavering commitment recently earned major national recognition, with the SM Group taking home 23 prestigious industry distinctions from leading organizations: the Philippine Foundation for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled Inc. (PFRD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA).

Universal Accessibility: By Design and By Practice

True accessibility goes far beyond simply installing a ramp at an entrance. It requires a thoughtful blend of smart architectural design and compassionate, well-trained human support. Across its expansive portfolio of malls, office towers, and retail outlets, SM treats inclusive access not as an afterthought, but as a foundational pillar of its corporate purpose.

Through SM Cares, disability-friendly features are seamlessly integrated into property planning nationwide. More importantly, SM invests heavily in continuous manpower training. Frontline staff, security personnel, and tenant employees are equipped with the knowledge and sensitivity required to assist PWDs effectively and respectfully in accordance with industry standards.

"Every single person entering and engaging in the spaces built by SM deserves to feel welcomed and accommodated," emphasizes Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations and Program Director for Disability Affairs at SM Cares. "Our benchmark for true inclusivity expressed well is when every guest, visitor, and mallgoer can freely move around our spaces while still receiving the support they need when challenges arise."

Honored at the 2026 Apolinario Mabini Awards

The tangible impact of these efforts was celebrated at the 2026 Apolinario Mabini Awards, organized by the PFRD to honor institutions making outstanding contributions to PWD welfare and social inclusion.

SM’s real estate and retail divisions secured multiple awards under the Disability Friendly Establishment category:

• SM Supermalls earned 12 citations, showcasing excellence across its nationwide network.

• SM Store, SM Commercial Properties Group, and SM Supermarket collectively garnered 10 awards.

Notable property honorees included SM City Roxas (Silver Award), alongside SM Center Angono, SM City Bacolod North Block Extension, SM City East Ortigas, SM City Sto. Tomas, SM Store J Mall, SM Store Puerto Princesa, E-Com Three, and E-Com Five (Bronze Awards). Several other SM malls, SM Stores, and Savemore branches received special commendations for substantial compliance with Batas Pambansa Blg. 344 (Accessibility Law) and proactive efforts to bridge accessibility gaps.

Championing Equity and Community Participation

Adding to these honors, the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) presented SM Cares with the Advocate for Equity Award. This distinction highlights SM Cares’ sustained leadership in advancing disability inclusion, promoting equal opportunities, and opening up mall spaces nationwide as public venues for disability-awareness events and community engagement.

By opening its doors to PWD-led initiatives, artistic showcases, and sports events, SM helps foster a culture of visibility, understanding, and equal participation.

"Inclusion is intentional at SM because of our purpose of sharing social equity and our drive toward becoming a truly inclusive 'Mall for All,'" Eusebio reflects. "It is woven into how we train our people, create our programs, and design our spaces. We believe accessibility is about making every person feel welcome, respected, and able to fully participate in the experiences we create every day."

Moving Forward Together

As SM continues to evolve through its My SM campaign—creating destinations that are more connected, experiential, and meaningful—its dedication to accessibility remains steadfast. By proving that business growth and social responsibility go hand in hand, the SM Group isn't just building structures; it is building a more compassionate and inclusive Philippines for generations to come.