For more than three decades, SM has championed sports development by investing in accessible facilities and programs that help Filipinos get into the game and improve their skills. The journey began with SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy’s vision in September 1992 to make world-class sports development and training part of everyday mall life.

SM Skating Academy nurtures athletes from grassroots to elite

At the heart of this initiative is the SM Skating Academy, designed to nurture ice skating skills for individuals of all ages and levels. From beginners in the Learn to Skate program to advanced Figure Skating, Ice Hockey, or Speed Skating, the Academy provides a roadmap for every skater to reach their full potential.

Michael Martinez, the first Filipino and Southeast Asian figure skater to qualify for the Winter Olympics, now coaches full-time at SM Skating. Rising athletes like Skye Chua, competing in the 2025 Winter University Games, and Cathryn Limketkai, Top 10 in the 2025 Asian Winter Games Women’s Singles Short Program, highlight the growing talent in the country.

Success stories inspire future athletes

Hans Matthew Buemio, the first homegrown Filipino to compete in the ISU Junior World Cup Series for short track speed skating, exemplifies grassroots success. The Philippine Women’s Ice Hockey Team also recently emerged as champions at the 2025 IIHF Women’s Asia Cup in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, showcasing the broad impact of SM’s sports initiatives.

Expanding sports ecosystems beyond skating

SM also promotes participation through SM Game Park and SM Bowling, offering facilities for Billiards, Bowling, Table Tennis, and Archery. Permanent Pickleball courts across various SM malls provide more spaces for Filipinos to get active, compete, and connect.

“By creating venues like SM Skating, we give young athletes the opportunity to train, build discipline, and prepare for global representation. Here, kids, parents, first-timers, and pros alike can start, stay, and succeed in sport,” said Hans T. Sy, Chairman of the SM Prime Executive Committee.

The SM Skating Academy is currently accepting enrollees. For information and registration, email smlearntoskate@gmail.com.