Property Report attended the recent Ayala Malls media briefing held at Glorietta, where executives unveiled how the country’s premier mall network is not only redefining retail—but reimagining how spaces connect people, movement, and meaning.
The transformation is anchored on a P17.5-billion reinvestment plan. What began as a P13-billion initiative in 2024 has expanded to include more properties, elevate design standards, and create vibrant, future-ready destinations across the country.
In an interview, Ayala Malls Chief Operating Officer Paul Birkett outlined their broader vision. “We plan to try and have a unified Glorietta, Greenbelt, and One Ayala,” he said. “In all of our new developments, we’ve got a number of boxes we have to tick, and transport integration is a key one. We cannot just rely on cars; we are moving towards a more integrated transport model. On some of our new developments, which are yet to be announced, you’ll see some incredible transportation integration with railway as well. Every intermodal solution is being looked at.”
Ayala Land Senior Vice President Mariana Zobel de Ayala added that accessibility and mobility are central to how the malls are evolving. “What excites me too is that in some of our malls, we’ve actually taken back roads to make way for pedestrians—Glorietta is a great example. Roads that people are familiar with are now going to be pedestrianized. It’s part of why things are a bit chaotic right now—but it will be worth it,” she shared.
“Our malls are not just commercial centers—they are essential parts of our estates and of Filipino life,” said Mariana during her keynote. “In our country, malls are third spaces that bring people together, support entrepreneurs and businesses, and serve as venues for everyday experiences and shared moments.”
“These are vibrant, well-crafted spaces where real moments unfold and communities connect,” Birkett said during his speech. “It’s not just about redesigning spaces—it’s about understanding how people want to live, move, and be inspired.”
New developments are also in the pipeline. Evo City in Cavite will soon open a family-oriented mall featuring a Playpark and the country’s first Jumping Clouds inflatable zone. Arca South in Taguig is set to open by December with artisanal dining and curated retail zones. Parklinks along C5 and Gatewalk in Cebu are also underway. Altogether, Ayala Malls will add over 700,000 square meters of gross leasable area over the next five years.
“The reinvention of Ayala Malls is a critical step forward—not only to enhance the retail experience, but to ensure our developments remain relevant, resilient, and impactful for years to come,” Mariana emphasized.
By redefining malls as dynamic third spaces, Ayala is showing that the future of retail lies not just in commerce—but in creating inclusive, movement-friendly spaces that evolve with the rhythm of modern life.
During the event, the executives expanded
on how each flagship mall is being reimagined with its own distinct identity:
• Glorietta is being refreshed with modern interiors, a redesigned Grand Mall façade, and the transformation of Glorietta 4 Park into a lively new plaza with al fresco dining.
• Greenbelt continues to push the boundaries of luxury with new-to-market brands like Golden Goose, Alo Yoga, Sandro, Maje, and Alice + Olivia. A new nightlife destination, T:28, will debut at Greenbelt 2, featuring curated culinary and mixology experiences.
• TriNoma is enhancing its entertainment and dining experiences with a Giant Screen cinema, upgraded Dolby Atmos theaters, and fresh dining concepts such as Burnt Bean and Little Flour.
• Ayala Center Cebu is unveiling a redesigned Activity Center and new interiors, along with an 18,000-square-meter expansion that includes parks, play zones, and more retail options.
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