Universal Accessibility by Design and Practice Earns SM Group 23 Industry Distinctions


The SM Group reinforces its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity through the experiences cultivated in its spaces with the help of its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares. Because of this pursuit, its properties were recently recognized by the Philippine Foundation For the Rehabilitation of the Disabled Inc. (PFRD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) for exemplary support for accessibility and upholding the dignity of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).


Through its group-wide drive to create truly inclusive and accommodating spaces for Persons with Disabilities, SM was commended by key industry organizations focused on disability affairs. Inclusive spaces and facilities enhance the SM Group’s portfolio of malls, offices, and retail spaces, earning the group 23 industry distinctions from PFRD and NCDA.

Recognition at the 2026 Apolinario Mabini Awards


The results of this enduring commitment over the years were recognized at the 2026 Apolinario Mabini Awards, where SM’s mall, retail, and office properties received multiple citations for advancing accessibility and creating more inclusive environments for Persons With Disabilities. Presented by the PFRD, the awards recognize organizations and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to the welfare and inclusion of PWDs.


SM’s largest network of real estate for retail, SM Supermalls, bagged 12 citations, with SM Store, SM Commercial Properties Group, and SM Supermarket taking home ten awards for the Disability Friendly Establishment category. Among the recipients are:

  • SM City Roxas: Silver citation

  • SM Center Angono, SM City Bacolod North Block Extension, SM City East Ortigas, and SM City Sto. Tomas: Bronze citations

  • SM Store J Mall, SM Store Puerto Princesa, E-Com Three, and E-Com Five: Bronze citations


Special awards were also presented to several SM malls, SM Stores, and Savemore branches for initiatives ranging from substantial compliance with Batas Pambansa Blg. 344 to improvements that addressed accessibility gaps.

Championing Equity and Inclusion


Additionally, SM Cares was recognized by the National Council for Disability Affairs (NCDA) for its sustained leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing disability inclusion in the Philippines through its Advocate for Equity Award.


The distinction highlights how SM Cares has consistently demonstrated exemplary support in creating accessible and inclusive spaces that enable meaningful participation of Persons With Disabilities in community life. SM Cares was further noted as an instrumental force in promoting awareness, accessibility, and equal opportunities by opening mall spaces nationwide as venues for disability-related events.


“Every single person entering and engaging in the spaces built by SM deserves to feel welcomed and accommodated,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations and Program Director for Disability Affairs, 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.”

Important Question

How many industry distinctions did the SM Group receive at the 2026 Apolinario Mabini Awards, and which organizations presented them?

Answer

The SM Group received 23 industry distinctions presented by the Philippine Foundation For the Rehabilitation of the Disabled Inc. (PFRD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA).

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