Long before “sustainability” became a corporate buzzword, SM Supermalls was already quietly laying the groundwork for a greener future. Since opening its very first mall—SM City North EDSA in 1985—the retail giant has embraced a circular economy approach, integrating eco-friendly practices into its design and operations long before it became a global movement.

Fast forward to today, SM Supermalls celebrates another milestone with the launch of its 88th mall—SM City Laoag. But this isn’t just another shopping destination. Located in the heart of Ilocos Norte, the newest SM mall is a thoughtful blend of innovation, sustainability, and cultural heritage.

From the moment visitors enter, SM City Laoag sets itself apart with its architecture. The centerpiece? A stunning Inabel-inspired skylight—a nod to the Ilocano weaving tradition. Beyond its aesthetic value, the design is highly functional—it maximizes natural daylight, helping the mall conserve energy by reducing the need for artificial lighting. This alone saves the mall an estimated 53.2 kilowatt-hours of electricity each day, reinforcing its low-carbon footprint.

Sustainability at SM City Laoag goes beyond sunlight and skylights. The mall incorporates several green innovations seen across other SM developments, starting with a sewage treatment plant that recycles water for landscaping, cleaning, air conditioning systems, and even toilet flushing. Complementing this system is a 766-cubic-meter rainwater detention tank beneath the structure. Designed to collect and reuse rainwater for non-potable purposes like perimeter cleaning and garden irrigation, the tank is a vital part of the mall’s sustainable water management plan.

As the country sees a rise in electric vehicle adoption, SM City Laoag is also doing its part to support cleaner transportation. The mall is equipped with an EV charging station, complete with two chargers, ensuring EV owners have the infrastructure they need to keep moving toward a low-emission future.

But perhaps what truly sets SM City Laoag apart is how it redefines sustainability—not just as an environmental effort, but as an economic and social commitment. At the heart of this is community empowerment.

Through its Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) program under the SM Foundation, over 100 local farmers in Ilocos Norte were trained in sustainable agriculture, agripreneurship, and financial literacy in 2024 alone. Many have since gone on to manage their own farms and cooperatives, helping ensure food security in the region while strengthening their own livelihoods.

At the same time, the mall has opened its doors to local artisans and entrepreneurs through a partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The “Treasures of Ilocos Norte” trade fair, hosted at SM City Laoag, is a vibrant celebration of Ilocano creativity and resilience. Featuring micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the showcase gives homegrown brands—from handwoven textiles to local delicacies—a powerful platform to reach new customers and grow their businesses.

In every square meter, SM City Laoag reflects a broader mission that goes beyond commerce. It is a symbol of what malls of the future should be: climate-resilient, community-driven, and culturally rooted.

From honoring indigenous craft to championing clean energy, and from empowering farmers to creating inclusive economic opportunities, SM City Laoag proves that retail spaces can be both progressive and purposeful. It’s not just a place to shop or dine—it’s a space where sustainability meets culture, and where every visit helps build a better, more resilient future for all.