The Top Five Malls of Metro Manila

“No decision should be made on an empty shopping bag” -Donita K. Paul 


The Philippines is known for the locals long-standing affair with their malls. In fact, Philippine malls go beyond the traditional realm of shopping and would give you an experience unlike any other. Seeing as this is the case, it would come as no surprise to find the country's capital replete with malls—almost in every nook and cranny. Metro Manila is the bustling city of the Philippines that would make it the prime and premier spot for malls considering how densely populated this city is.

Indeed, mall developers have used this the city's population to their advantage as evidence by the ring of malls you can find in almost every corner in the city. While there is definitely no shortage of Manila shopping malls, there are malls that are a cut above the rest—whether it may be from the myriad of activities you can do or the great deals you can find, the experience you get from visiting is unlike any other.

Here are some of Metro Manila's top malls:

1.) SM Mall of Asia

Residents of Manila would be hard-pressed not to hear about SM Mall of Asia or more fondly known as SM MOA. This sprawling Supermall is known to be the fourth largest shopping mall in the Philippines and the eleventh largest mall in the world, and when it newly opened back in 2006, it was considered the biggest shopping mall in the world. MOA's allure lies primarily in their entertainment options. Being the first mall in the country to have IMAX and Director's Club Theaters, it would be no surprise that moviegoers would be enticed to visit. Apart from the cinemas, it features an Olympic-sized ice-skating rink, a Ferris wheel, a party and event venue, an indoor arena, concert grounds and a convention center.

2.) Greenbelt

If luxury and high-end shopping are your thing, then Greenbelt would be your go-to mall. Developed by Ayala Malls, Greenbelt consists of five shopping areas that are an eclectic mix of high-end retail shops, a myriad of restaurants, leisure and entertainment centers. Greenbelts charm lies in its architectural design where it masterfully incorporated a garden theme within its mall. It has been gorgeously designed in such a way that indoor and outdoor scenery seamlessly blend.

3.) Glorietta

Glorietta is Metro Manila's popular mall with a vibrant history. Owned by the Ayala Corporation and much like Greenbelt, it is split into five sections. The mall has a wide array of shops, restaurants, and cinemas. It even comes with a gym, arcades and so much more. Unfortunately, the mall's pristine image has been marred by terrifying incidents such as the explosion of 2000, the bombing in 2005 and the fire in 2007. But regardless of this, the mall continues to thrive owing to its convenience and accessibility.

4.) TriNoma

Trinoma is a unique mall that features Alfresco style shops, gardens, and even water features. For many, it is considered a direct competitor of SM City North Edsa as these two malls are standing next to each other. The mall itself consists of four levels and is ringed with alfresco zones that feature lovely landscaped gardens at the rooftop park. If you want a mall that allows you to get in touch with nature, TriNoma should definitely be your pick.

5.) Shangri-La Plaza

Shangri-La Plaza is known for its upscale luxury shopping options. With a great variety of international shops, the particular and meticulous shopper would not be left wanting. Foodies would especially love this mall too as there is a good selection of restaurants—both local and international. It has five state-of-the-art cinemas where CinEurope Film Festival is annually held.

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