BUSINESS
Advocates Philippines
SM Malls Shorten Hours Amid National Energy Emergency
Photo credit: SM Supermarket
In response to the state of national energy emergency declared by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., SM Supermalls announced that all its malls nationwide will shorten operating hours starting Monday, March 30. The move aims to conserve power and ease pressure on the country’s energy grid.
According to SM Supermalls, the new schedule will be:
• Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
“SM is proactively adapting to the current situation by adjusting our operating hours. We remain committed to delivering elevated retail experiences for all Filipinos, supported by our increased use of renewable energy to power our malls,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.
SM has been expanding its use of renewable energy, including solar installations and other sustainability measures, to reduce reliance on conventional power sources.
What’s Driving the Energy Emergency
The national energy emergency, declared through Executive Order No. 110, comes amid global disruptions in energy markets, particularly due to conflicts in the Middle East that have driven up oil prices. The Philippines imports almost all of its petroleum, making it vulnerable to global supply shocks.
Under the emergency declaration:
• Government agencies are implementing fuel conservation and dispatch efficiency protocols to stabilize the power supply.
• The Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) operations are being monitored closely, and temporary adjustments may prioritize stable and renewable energy sources.
• Measures to balance fuel costs and consumer stability are underway.
These steps aim to keep electricity supply sufficient while preventing sharp price spikes and maintaining the smooth flow of daily life, transportation, and logistics.
What It Means for Shoppers and Workers
The shorter mall hours reflect broader demand-side measures to conserve electricity during peak periods. While the current power supply remains adequate, reduced operating hours help prevent strain on the grid and encourage energy efficiency.
Some shoppers and employees have expressed mixed reactions online, but SM emphasizes that the change is temporary and part of a collective effort to adapt responsibly to the current energy situation.
According to SM Supermalls, the new schedule will be:
• Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
“SM is proactively adapting to the current situation by adjusting our operating hours. We remain committed to delivering elevated retail experiences for all Filipinos, supported by our increased use of renewable energy to power our malls,” said Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.
SM has been expanding its use of renewable energy, including solar installations and other sustainability measures, to reduce reliance on conventional power sources.
What’s Driving the Energy Emergency
The national energy emergency, declared through Executive Order No. 110, comes amid global disruptions in energy markets, particularly due to conflicts in the Middle East that have driven up oil prices. The Philippines imports almost all of its petroleum, making it vulnerable to global supply shocks.
Under the emergency declaration:
• Government agencies are implementing fuel conservation and dispatch efficiency protocols to stabilize the power supply.
• The Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) operations are being monitored closely, and temporary adjustments may prioritize stable and renewable energy sources.
• Measures to balance fuel costs and consumer stability are underway.
These steps aim to keep electricity supply sufficient while preventing sharp price spikes and maintaining the smooth flow of daily life, transportation, and logistics.
What It Means for Shoppers and Workers
The shorter mall hours reflect broader demand-side measures to conserve electricity during peak periods. While the current power supply remains adequate, reduced operating hours help prevent strain on the grid and encourage energy efficiency.
Some shoppers and employees have expressed mixed reactions online, but SM emphasizes that the change is temporary and part of a collective effort to adapt responsibly to the current energy situation.
Mar 26, 2026
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