Shopping malls across the Philippines, including SM Supermalls, Robinsons Malls, and Vista Malls, will shorten operating hours starting March 30, 2026, in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s declaration of a national energy emergency. The move aims to conserve electricity and ease pressure on the national grid amid global oil supply disruptions.

SM Supermalls, which operates 90 branches nationwide, announced that weekday operating hours will be adjusted to 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., while weekend hours will run from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.. 

SM Supermalls President Steven Tan said, “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.”

Robinsons Malls confirmed similar adjustments, with all branches set to operate from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekends. The company advised mallgoers to check official social media pages for branch-specific updates.

Vista Malls and Starmalls, operated by the Villar Group, also announced shortened hours effective March 30, following the same schedule as SM and Robinsons.

The decision follows President Marcos's issuance of Executive Order No. 110 on March 24, 2026, declaring a State of National Energy Emergency. The order was prompted by global oil supply disruptions linked to Middle East tensions, which have raised fuel and electricity costs.

For consumers, the shortened mall hours mean adjustments in shopping schedules, dining, and entertainment activities. Analysts note that while the move may cause minor inconvenience, it is a necessary step to conserve energy and stabilize supply during the crisis.

This coordinated action by major mall operators underscores the private sector’s role in supporting government measures to manage electricity consumption and mitigate the impact of the energy emergency on Filipino households and businesses.