20 select SM branches to host Comelec mall voting on May 12
By Minerva Newman
CEBU CITY—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in partnership with SM Supermalls rolled out the Mall Voting Program (MVP) in 20 select SM malls nationwide, bringing democracy closer to home—literally on May 12.
According to COMELEC and SM Supermalls, eligible voters assigned to MVP locations can head to their designated SM mall to vote in a secure, accessible, and air-conditioned environment.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or a senior citizen looking for comfort and ease, the MVP is designed to improve your voting experience.
Here are frequently answered questions regarding the process:
Who can vote in the mall? Only voters whose precincts were officially transferred to a mall. This is indicated in the final list from Comelec.
How can I confirm if I can vote in a mall? You may check any of the following:
· Log in via precinctfinder.comelec.gov.ph;
· Refer to your Voter Information Sheet (VIS);
· Check mall posters or tarps and barangay caravans or your local Comelec office.
Voting hours are scheduled between 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs) and pregnant individuals, who are given priority; regular voting hours start from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Can I bring someone to help me vote? Yes, a relative (up to 4th degree) or an Electoral Board member may assist.
Can my companion vote at the mall, too? Only if their precinct was also officially transferred to the same mall. Here’s a list of the participating SM Supermalls where you can conveniently vote this coming May 12:
· SM City Manila
· SM City North EDSA
· SM City Fairview
· SM City Sucat
· SM City Bicutan
· SM City BF Parañaque
· SM City East Ortigas
· SM City Southmall
· SM City Cauayan
· SM City Baliwag
· SM City Tarlac
· SM City Batangas
· SM City Santa Rosa
· SM City Puerto Princesa
· SM City Legazpi
· SM City Iloilo
· SM City Consolacion
· SM CDO Uptown
· SM CDO Downtown
· SM City Butuan
SM Government Service Express (GSE)
This isn’t SM’s first time teaming up with government agencies. Through the SM Government Service Express (GSE), select SM malls already offer one-stop access to services like ID processing, permits, and more.
The MVP is another way SM Supermalls is stepping up to serve the public in meaningful ways.
From Luzon to Mindanao, SM Supermalls opens its doors rent-free for the benefit of Filipino voters and Comelec’s got the backend handled: trained election personnel, full compliance with electoral rules, and tight coordination for logistics and security.
Why mall voting works. The goal is for a smoother, more inclusive voting experience, especially for PWDs, senior citizens, and pregnant voters. Think ramps, elevators, comfortable seating, and spacious voting areas—all in a familiar and accessible setting.
“We believe democracy should be inclusive, convenient, and secure. By offering our malls as voting venues, we’re not just making it easier to vote—we’re helping empower every Filipino to make their voice heard,” said Junias Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations at SM Supermalls.
For eligible mall voting, expect an official advisory from Comelec about your assigned voting venue. Then, on May 12, head to your designated SM mall, bring a valid ID, and vote with ease.
