via GRAPHIC PLUS | MANILA, Philippines (June 2026) — The future of live entertainment in the Philippines shines brighter as the eye-conic SM Mall of Asia Arena has been recognized by IQ Magazine as one of the Top 20 Global Arena Stars of 2026, representing the Philippines among the world’s premier concert destinations, as determined by industry professionals.
IQ Magazine is a leading global source of information for the live music and entertainment industry, providing credible insights from venue professionals to more than 100,000 industry stakeholders worldwide, including concert promoters, booking agents, festival organizers, and venue operators.
Since its inauguration in 2012, the SM Mall of Asia Arena has hosted over 2,400 events, welcoming some of the world’s biggest live music acts. In the past year alone, the venue has staged performances by Mariah Carey, Bryan Adams, Josh Groban, and many others, reinforcing its stature as a world-class venue and the preferred stage for the biggest names in entertainment. Through continuous innovation, cutting-edge facilities, and seamless event execution, the Arena consistently delivers maxed out experiences that have made it one of the country’s most loved venues for concerts, sports, family entertainment, and global live events.
Building on this success, SM is set to expand its portfolio of world-class venues with the upcoming SM Seaside Cebu Arena, extending its commitment to delivering maxed out experiences to more Filipinos across the country.
Other recipients of the Top 20 Global Arena Stars recognition include Coca-Cola Arena, Intuit Dome, Avicii Arena, Uber Arena, and Barclays Center.
Receiving this prestigious recognition just ahead of the venue’s 14th anniversary underscores its resilience and continued success in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape. More than another addition to its growing list of accolades, the recognition affirms the Arena’s position as a world-class venue, the preferred destination for live entertainment, and one of the country’s most loved venues. As it continues to welcome the biggest acts and most anticipated events, SM Mall of Asia Arena remains committed to delivering maxed out experiences that elevate every show and create unforgettable memories for millions of fans.
More than a venue, SM Mall of Asia Arena is where fans experience entertainment to the fullest. Through its commitment to delivering maxed out experiences, the Arena has become the preferred venue for the biggest local and international events and one of the country’s most loved entertainment destinations.
Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.
