SM Skating: The Philippines' Home of Ice Skating Champions Through the SM Skating Academy’s Learn to Skate program, and tournaments like Skate Manila 2026, SM Skating grows the sport and develops future champions

　　Participants, coaches, officials, and supporters celebrate the success of Skate Manila 2026 at SM Skating in SM Megamall, highlighting the growing community that continues to drive the development of ice skating in the Philippines。

　　MANILA, Philippines, 10th June 2026 – More Filipinos are lacing up their skates and stepping onto the ice as interest in the sport continues to grow nationwide。

　　Through the SM Skating Academy’s Learn to Skate program and competitions such as Skate Manila 2026, SM Skating continues to nurture aspiring skaters at every stage of their journey—from first-time learners discovering the sport to competitive athletes pursuing excellence on the ice。

　　The growing enthusiasm for skating is reflected in the Learn to Skate program’s strong momentum. Since January 2026, registrations have nearly doubled compared to the same period last year, highlighting the increasing popularity of ice skating among Filipino families, children, teens, and aspiring athletes。

　　“Every champion starts somewhere, and for many young skaters, that journey begins with taking their first steps on the ice,” said Joseph Francis Silva, Senior Assistant Vice President for SM Sports and Leisure. “Through SM Skating Academy, we provide opportunities for Filipinos to learn, develop their skills, and pursue their passion for skating—whether for recreation, personal growth, or competitive achievement。”

　　An SM Skating Academy coach guides young skaters during a Learn to Skate session, helping participants build confidence and develop their skills on the ice。

　　Offered monthly across SM Skating rinks in your most-loved SM Supermalls nationwide, the Learn to Skate program provides a structured environment where participants can develop fundamental skating skills while building confidence, discipline, and a love for the sport. The program welcomes both recreational skaters and aspiring competitive athletes, making ice skating more accessible to Filipinos from different backgrounds and experience levels。

　　As skaters continue to develop their abilities, competitions such as Skate Manila 2026 offer opportunities to test their skills, gain valuable experience, and join a thriving skating community。

　　Held from June 5 to 7 in SM Megamall and sanctioned by ISI Asia, Skate Manila 2026 brought together skaters from across the country for one of the Philippines’ premier grassroots skating competitions. The annual event supports athletes' progression by providing a platform for participants to compete, gain exposure, and showcase their talents before coaches, fellow athletes, and the skating community。

　　Beyond competition, Skate Manila also serves as an important avenue for talent identification and athlete development while helping strengthen connections within the growing local skating scene. The event reflects SM Skating’s continued commitment to grassroots participation, competitive excellence, and the long-term growth of the sport。

　　A skater showcases her talent during Skate Manila 2026, one of SM Skating’s premier grassroots competitions that provides athletes with opportunities to progress, compete, and pursue excellence on the ice。

　　Together, the Learn to Skate program and Skate Manila 2026 demonstrate how SM Supermalls supports skaters throughout their development journey. From learning basic techniques to competing on larger stages, participants are given opportunities to progress, improve, and pursue their goals on the ice。

　　As the country’s home of ice skating and training ground for future champions, SM Skating continues to help build a stronger and more vibrant skating community—one that inspires more Filipinos to discover the sport and embrace an active lifestyle。

　　“Winning does not begin on competition day. It begins with every lesson, every practice session, and every step forward,” Silva said. “At SM Skating, we remain committed to creating spaces and opportunities where aspiring athletes can grow, develop their potential, and pursue their dreams. This is where winning begins。”

　　To learn more about the Learn to Skate program, upcoming competitions, and other skating activities, visit SM Skating rinks nationwide and follow SM Skating’s official social media channels。