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Manila Bulletin devider Technews devider More than a mall: How SM Supermalls brings Filipinos together through tech, play, and shared interests

More than a mall: How SM Supermalls brings Filipinos together through tech, play, and shared interests

By MBrand
Published Aug 31, 2026 10:00 am
By: Danica Crisologo
What started as a way to connect during the COVID-19 pandemic has become something that today's generation needs a break from. Amid digitalization, endless scrolling, and the nine-to-five screen time, Millennials and Gen Z are shifting towards a more immersive experience, seeking a space to build connections over shared passions.
While screen fatigue is real, technology itself is not the enemy. The problem lies in disconnection: The isolation that digital consumption brings. Today’s generation isn’t looking to abandon technology altogether; in fact, tech-driven experiences remain central to modern life. Instead, Millennials and Gen Z are seeking physical spaces that transform their online passions into live, interactive, and shared experiences.
When talking about space, SM Supermalls has always been at the center of Filipino life. For decades, SM has become more than a place to shop; it is where families, friends, and communities gather to celebrate, connect, or simply relax. It has become a place where Filipinos create lasting memories.
Cosplayer AWIE De Guzman during the launch of NORTHERN PLAYCON Tech Expo at SM North EDSA.
Cosplayer AWIE De Guzman during the launch of NORTHERN PLAYCON Tech Expo at SM North EDSA.
Through tech, play, and shared interest
This August, SM Supermalls proved its continued evolution as a place where communities gather, passions are celebrated, and shared interests come to life with its Tech & Play Month. For gamers, tech enthusiasts, content creators, and collectors of trading card games, toys, and model kits, as well as pop culture and anime fans, cosplay enthusiasts, and other niche hobbyists, this event served as a playground where their passion transcends solitary play to build a community that shares the same lifestyle.
One of the key platforms supporting this initiative is SM Cyberzone. As the gadget ecosystem where passion for technology comes alive, Cyberzone hosted engaging activities such as the Cyberzone KOL Match, Cyberzone Slugfest featuring Tekken 8, Cyberzone Game Fest in Davao, and the Cyberzone Card Collective. Together, these events demonstrated how a tech retail destination transforms into a vibrant space for interaction, discovery, spirited competition, and community.
For tech enthusiasts, Builders Society showcased cutting-edge technology designed for power work, play, and everything in between. Celebrating digital storytellers, Creators United sparked creativity through hands-on experiences and the latest innovations. Meanwhile, Collectors Club transformed participating SM malls into vibrant gathering hubs, bringing hobbyists together through trading card battles, cosplay showcases, collectible marketplaces, and fandom events that celebrate today’s biggest pop culture communities.
In an era where today’s generation's interests center on technology and entertainment, SM Supermalls gives these passions a physical home. Through initiatives that celebrate these shared interests, SM Supermalls continues to prove itself as a space that provides far more than just a place to shop. Further, with SM Supermalls' nationwide presence, these spaces remain easily accessible to communities. This gives Filipinos a shared space to connect, gather, and thrive in proximity.
SM Executives and partners lead the countdown to the launch of SM Supermalls' Tech & Play Month at SM North Edsa.
SM Executives and partners lead the countdown to the launch of SM Supermalls' Tech & Play Month at SM North Edsa.
SM by the Filipinos' side
Across generations, SM Supermalls has consistently provided Filipinos with a space to discover and share new experiences together. Its continued evolution and commitment to being more than just a retail destination ensure that as lifestyles and interests shift, SM remains a vibrant backdrop for shared memories and real-world connection.
No matter how much technology changes the world, the need for real connection stays the same. Through it all, SM Supermalls remains by the side of Filipinos, continually evolving as a space where community and connection always come first.

Related Tags

SM SM Cyberzone SM Super Malls SM Supermalls
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