A Win for Cyclists in the East Metro
Anyone who has biked around Marikina knows that the city takes cycling seriously. Wide bike lanes, an active biking community, and a local culture that truly embraces two wheels make it a favorite among cyclists. Adding to this reputation, SM City Marikina has recently been recognized for supporting active mobility in a big way.
The mall has been awarded a Gold Award at the Mobility Awards 2025, recognizing it as one of the most bike-friendly large establishments in the Philippines. The recognition highlights SM City Marikina’s consistent efforts to create a welcoming, safe, and accessible environment for cyclists in the East Metro.
For bikers who regularly include mall stops in their routes, this award feels well deserved.
Why SM City Marikina Stands Out for Cyclists
The Mobility Awards honor organizations and establishments that actively promote sustainable transport and inclusive mobility. SM City Marikina’s Gold Award reflects its long-term commitment to making cycling a practical and comfortable option for mall-goers.
One of the mall’s standout features is its secure and spacious bike parking facility. Strategically placed for easy access, the bike parking area allows cyclists to lock up their bikes with confidence before heading inside. This thoughtful design helps remove one of the biggest concerns for urban cyclists: bike safety.
Beyond parking, the mall has also made it easier for riders to transition from their bike commute to their errands or leisure time. Clear access points and cyclist-friendly layouts make the experience smooth, especially for those visiting after a long ride.
Supporting the Local Cycling Community
SM City Marikina’s commitment goes beyond infrastructure. The mall actively supports biking communities through regular cycling-related activities and partnerships with local rider groups. These initiatives help foster a sense of community while encouraging more people to consider biking as part of their daily routine.
By engaging with cyclists and hosting activities tailored to them, the mall positions itself as more than just a destination. It becomes part of the local cycling ecosystem.
“Our commitment to providing secure, thoughtfully designed bike parking facilities and our regular cycling-focused activities reflect our dedication to supporting not just Marikina riders but the wider biking community who visit us from across the metro,” said Francis Brian Cruz, Mall Manager of SM City Marikina.
This approach resonates strongly in a city where cycling is not just a hobby but a way of life.
Aligning with Greener and Healthier Mobility Goals
The recognition also aligns with the broader initiatives of SM Supermalls and SM Cares, both of which continue to advocate for greener mobility solutions and healthier lifestyle choices. Encouraging biking helps reduce carbon emissions, ease traffic congestion, and promote physical well-being.
SM City Marikina’s efforts support these goals by offering real, usable infrastructure rather than symbolic gestures. For daily commuters, leisure riders, and organized biking groups, having a bike-friendly mall makes cycling a more viable option.
This is especially important in urban areas where cyclists often struggle with limited facilities and safety concerns.
A Natural Fit for Marikina’s Cycling Culture
Located in a city widely known as the Philippines’ cycling capital, SM City Marikina naturally complements Marikina’s long-standing biking culture. The mall’s facilities help reinforce local government efforts to promote active transport and sustainable urban living.
Whether you are a commuter who bikes to work, a weekend rider exploring the metro, or part of a cycling group meeting up for a post-ride meal, the mall offers a convenient and cyclist-friendly stop.
Its Gold Award recognition shows how private establishments can play a meaningful role in shaping more inclusive and sustainable cities.
Awards like this go beyond trophies. They signal a shift in how public and private spaces are designed. When large establishments prioritize cyclists, it sends a message that biking is not just encouraged but supported.
For SM City Marikina, the Gold Award reinforces its position as a mall that listens to its community and adapts to changing mobility needs. It also sets an example for other commercial spaces looking to become more bike-friendly.
For cyclists, it means one more safe and welcoming place to include in their routes.
Looking Ahead
As cities continue to evolve, the need for sustainable and people-centered mobility solutions becomes more urgent. SM City Marikina’s recognition at the Mobility Awards 2025 proves that thoughtful design and community engagement can make a real difference.
For those who love biking around Marikina and beyond, this Gold Award feels like a shared victory. It is a reminder that with the right support, cycling can continue to thrive as a practical, healthy, and enjoyable way to move around the metro.