MOA complex draws 34.5M visitors in Q1

SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) reported a remarkable 34.5 million visits to its flagship Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex in the first quarter of 2025, matching the population size of Peru and reflecting a strong rebound in consumer activity post-pandemic.

The 15 percent year-on-year increase in foot traffic was largely fueled by a dynamic event calendar. Notable crowd-pullers included the return of the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition and performances by global artists such as Maroon 5, NIKI, Baekhyun, and Taeyeon. Sporting events like the UAAP volleyball season also drew large university audiences.

“The Mall of Asia Complex demonstrates how our integrated, experience-led strategy—from retail and offices to education and entertainment—drives sustained foot traffic. It’s the SM ecosystem in full effect,” said SM Prime President Jeffrey C. Lim.

Spanning 60 hectares in Pasay City, the MOA Complex is a landmark destination that blends commercial, residential, and entertainment zones. It houses iconic facilities including SM Mall of Asia, the SMX Convention Center, MOA Arena, SM MOA IMAX, and the world’s largest IKEA store.

Lim noted that SM Prime is aligning its event strategy with the growing trend toward experience-based consumption. The company’s consolidated net income rose 11 percent in the first quarter, with mall operations remaining a key growth driver.

To sustain momentum, SM Prime is pursuing a three-pronged growth approach: organic expansion, regional development, and strategic diversification. Integrated estates like the MOA Complex and premium residential projects are expected to be major contributors to future performance.