WITNESSING a steady post-COVID-19 recovery, SM bares a “complex” plan for the first Bulacan mall located in Marilao.

With the plan afoot, SM City Marilao’s two-phase expansion and redevelopment will bring an estimated area of the mall to 165,000 sqm, making it the “largest mall” in the province and the “Northern Gateway of the Metro”.

“Driven by the modernization of the transport system, this complex plan aligns with SM’s commitment to delivering outstanding customer experience while catering to the changing lifestyle of a fast-growing population. It is also the brand’s way of demonstrating our ongoing drive to boost the province’s economy,” shares AVP for North Luzon 5 and 6 Ana T. Datu.

Plans disclosed by SM Prime Holdings Inc. envisioned two multi-storey extension buildings that highlight the seamless connections and sophisticated integration to the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) and SMDC Cheers Residences.

The phase 1 expansion is slated to open in the last quarter of 2023. It will feature a carefully designed lush garden that allows pedestrians to pass through the mall and the station, offering a modern, contemporary feel.

This area will also be home to various grab-and-go kiosks and concepts for on-the-go traffic.

Phase 1 expansion will also house the main transport terminal, garden café, and the lush green veranda for a better dining experience.

Fostering accessibility standards through better connectivity, the Phase 2 expansion will link directly to the main SM Mall and SMDC Cheer Residences.

Target to open in the last quarter of 2024, the phase 2 expansion will feature lush green interconnection and walkway, an indoor alfresco park, a wide atrium, scenic elevator, new state-of-the-art SM Cinema, and a sufficient carpark space that offers at least 1,500 parking slots.

The main mall will likewise have an upgraded architectural design with a Contemporary Hacienda Style ambiance.

A new Cyberzone will rise in the former area of SM Cinema. Refresh tenant look, renovated restrooms, and delivery riders’ lounge will also complete the metropolitan look and feel.

SM City Marilao’s expansion and redevelopment plan will likewise bring several new features and concepts such as an exciting mix of global and local retail shops, a diverse set of dining establishments, and other amenities such as health and wellness and specialty stores to provide a complete, elevated lifestyle, and aesthetic experience for both shoppers and retailers alike.

Since its opening on November 28, 2003, SM City Marilao has become the “First Shopping and Lifestyle Destination”.

It also sealed its commitment to building strong communities in Bulacan, as it generates over a thousand jobs and business opportunities. By Anchit Masangcay