Museo del Galeón features a full-scale representation of the 17th-century Galeón Espíritu Santo, alongside interactive exhibits and audiovisual installations that explore the Philippines’ maritime heritage and its role in the historic Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade.
SM Mall of Asia Complex is expanding its cultural and tourism offering with Museo del Galeón, the first experiential maritime museum in the country. The new destination uses immersive storytelling, interactive exhibits and live programming to explain the Philippines’ maritime history and its role in the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade.
The four-level, 9,000-square-meter museum features a full-scale version of the 17th-century Galeón Espíritu Santo, crafted from fibreglass by local artisans.
Its location within the MOA Complex has helped broaden the museum’s reach and introduce it to a wider mix of visitors. Since its opening last May, Museo del Galeón has welcomed thousands of visitors, fromstudents and families to tourists, corporate groups and culture enthusiasts, while hosting a growing mix of private tours, workshops, talks and after-hours experiences.
Museo del Galeón has likewise drawn strong corporate support, with companies backing the museum’s efforts to bring Philippine maritime history to a wider audience.
Companies and individuals can sponsor one of the museum’s permanent installations of 181 floating galleons, with the vessel carrying the sponsor’s name and providing a distinctive way to support the museum’s cultural and educational mission. Its early supporters include prominent business leaders and some of the country’s leading companies across multiple industries.
“There is a real opportunity for the private sector to become part of this story—not simply as sponsors, but as partners in preserving our heritage and bringing Philippine maritime history to a much wider audience,” said Operations Director Chiqui Batac “Museo del Galeón also gives companies new ways to engage clients and customers through culture, storytelling and shared experiences.”
One recent example was an after-hours program that paired museum access with curated cocktails, a guided cocktail journey and maritime trivia, developed in collaboration with several partner brands.
Museo del Galeón plans to roll out more after-hours programs, expert-led talks, youth workshops and brand collaborations designed to attract diverse audiences and encourage repeat visits.
“Our approach is to keep the experience evolving,” said Batac. “We want visitors to have new things to discover each time they come, while also creating different opportunities for the public to engage with the museum.”
Right in the heart of SM Mall of Asia, next to the usual shopping, dining, and bayfront views, sits a gleaming silver dome that feels like it belongs to another era. Inside is Museo del Galeón, the Philippines’ first immersive maritime heritage museum. Opened to the public on May 1, 2026, it finally brings to life one of the most important and often overlooked chapters of Philippine and world history: the Manila–Acapulco galleon trade.
This isn’t a quiet, glass-case kind of museum. It’s experiential, sensory, and built for discovery. At its center stands a full-scale representation of the Galeón Espíritu Santo, a 17th-century ship originally built in Cavite around 1603 that made multiple peaceful crossings of the Pacific. Measuring roughly 40 meters long and 30–31 meters high, the fiberglass replica is massive enough that you can walk its decks, peer into the cramped crew spaces, and stand under the masts while a vast LED “Sea of Lights” wraps the dome in shifting seascapes, storms, and starry night skies. It is one of the largest indoor LED installations of its kind in the Philippines (and among the largest museum LED bands anywhere). The effect is immersive: you don’t just look at history, you step into it.
Walking through the exhibits felt like stepping into a different era of Philippine history. The museum does a really good job of bringing maritime stories to life: the galleon trade, the ships, the routes, the people involved. You get a clearer sense of how connected the Philippines already was to the rest of the world centuries ago. I left knowing a lot more than I expected to.
Most of the ships were built by Filipino hands, largely in Cavite using local materials and extraordinary craftsmanship. Filipino seafarers formed a large part of the crews that endured months-long voyages under harsh conditions. The museum places those people and that ingenuity at the center, connecting pre-colonial balangay traditions and early navigators to the galleon era and onward to the Philippines’ modern role as a major source of the world’s seafarers.
.What makes it a true must-visit at Mall of Asia is the rare combination of scale, location, and relevance. You can step out of a shopping mall or a seaside stroll and, within minutes, be standing on the deck of a galleon under a digital night sky. Families, students, history buffs, and curious tourists all find something here: pride in Filipino skill and resilience, a clearer sense of how the Philippines helped shape early globalization, and a visceral experience that sticks with you longer than a typical exhibit. Discounts for students, teachers, seniors, and PWDs, plus free entry for the youngest children, make it accessible. Hours are currently Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (with some sources noting broader availability as the museum continues to expand toward full completion).
In a city full of attractions, Museo del Galeón stands out because it doesn’t just display the past, it lets you board it. The next time you’re at Mall of Asia, skip past the usual stops for an hour or two and step inside the dome. You’ll leave with a richer understanding of why the sea has always been central to who Filipinos are, and why this particular voyage still matters.
Special thanks to SM PRIME for making this experience possible.
Heads up event goers, your next core memory might just be around the corner with this quarter’s line up of the biggest international live events at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena! From the debut of Kpop’s hottest acts to the biggest popstars of the century, 2026 brings bigger surprises to the country.
Full house crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena for unmatched live entertainment experiences.
Day6 10th Anniversary Tour The Decade in Manila (January 24) Buy Tickets Here
DAY6 returned to the Philippines to celebrate their 10th Anniversary as a band on January 24, 2026.DAY6 returned to the Philippines to celebrate their 10th Anniversary as a band on January 24, 2026.
DAY6 returned to the Philippines to celebrate their 10th Anniversary as a band on January 24, 2026.
Striking Emotion in Every Heart: A November of Diverse Emotions with MLTR, Playback Pop It Up!, Jason Derulo, and Hillsong London
The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena delivered a powerhouse month of live entertainment this November, bringing some of the most iconic names in global music to Filipino fans. From timeless 90s and 2000s hits to high-energy pop spectacles and uplifting worship gatherings, the venue ushered in a wave of nostalgia, excitement, and spiritual connection, cementing its position as the country’s home for unforgettable live experiences.
This impressive lineup of events once again highlights the Arena’s strength and reliability as SM’s premier partner for large-scale entertainment. Its unmatched resilience, strategic operations, and consistency across back-to-back shows at both the SM MOA Arena and the SMDC Festival Grounds affirm its standing as the benchmark for world-class concerts, festivals, and conventions in the Philippines.
Hillsong London brings a worship night to the SMDC Festival Grounds.
Timeless Hits Take Center Stage Legendary Danish band Michael Learns to Rock—Jascha Richter (vocals, keyboards), Mikkel Lentz (guitar), and Kåre Wanscher (drums)—returned to the SM Mall of Asia Arena with a heart-tugging set that brought generations of fans together.
Mikkel Lentz greets the crowd since their last return.Fans lit up the Arena with thousands of lights in the venue as they sang along with Michael Learns to Rock.
A standout moment of the night was their performance of “Take Me to Your Heart,” as the entire arena sang in unison. The crowd was also treated to beloved classics, including “25 Minutes,” “Paint My Love,” and “That’s Why.”
A Generation of Music That Expresses American singer-songwriter Jason Derulo lit up the stage with a stellar showcase blending R&B, pop, and dance. Backed by explosive stage production, Derulo matched the arena’s electrifying energy with his signature charisma and dynamic performances.
Jason Derulo brings the heat at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
His setlist included major hits such as “Swalla,” “Talk Dirty,” “Who Hurt You,” and “Savage Love,” bringing the crowd to its feet and redefining the night as a celebration of pure expression and performance power.
https://www.facebook.com/moaarena/videos/1395347005292109 Jason Derulo brings an explosive opening to the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Nostalgia in a Bottle https://www.tiktok.com/@moa.arena/video/7575210673144171797?lang=en Vanessa Carlton performs “A Thousand Miles” at the Playback Music Festival.
The Playback Pop It Up! Music Festival transported fans back to the golden era of the 2000s with the return of iconic artists David Archuleta, Vanessa Carlton, and Blue. For many, the festival marked long-awaited reunions with acts they had not seen live in years.
Blue returns to the SM MOA Arena during the Playback Music Festival.David Archuleta sets the stage for the Playback Music Festival.
Deeply nostalgic and emotionally charged, the event unlocked core memories for fans as they sang along to “Crush” by David Archuleta, “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton, and “If You Come Back” by Blue. The three acts turned the venue into a time capsule filled with joy and sentiment.
Praise and Worship in an Outdoor Venue At the SMDC Festival Grounds, thousands gathered for a powerful night of worship with Hillsong London on November 23. Despite unpredictable weather, attendees braved the elements as the worship group delivered moving performances of “What a Beautiful Name,” “Hosanna,” “Oceans,” and “Relentless.”
Hillsong London makes a touchdown at the SMDC Festival Ground.
With hands raised and voices united, the crowd transformed the open-air venue into a sanctuary of gratitude and praise.
https://www.tiktok.com/@moa.arena/video/7575966376242760980?lang=en The crowd sings along to Hosanna with hearts lifted.
Fireworks accompany the vibrant atmosphere of worship.
In the Service of Excellence
Venue personnel continue to showcase excellence and hospitality to all patrons, ensuring safety and security.
The SM Mall of Asia Arena continues to exemplify its unwavering commitment to delivering world-class live entertainment, hosting everything from high-caliber indoor concerts to emotionally resonant outdoor gatherings. Each event is backed by meticulous preparation, seamless operations, and an unshakeable dedication to guest well-being.
The SM Mall of Asia venue personnel continue to deliver service excellence in every event for its patrons.
Prioritizing safety, comfort, and exceptional service, the arena strives to provide not just spectacular performances but also a worry-free, memorable experience for every guest.
The highly anticipated IU HEREH Pop-Up Store in Manila opened its doors at the SM Mall of Asia, 3rd Floor, South Entertainment Mall, on May 24, 2024, at 11 AM. The grand opening was met with an overwhelming response as UAENA (IU fandom name) of the beloved South Korean singer IU lined up hours before the official opening time, forming long lines that snaked through the mall.
The IU HEREH Pop-Up Store in Manila, running from May 24 until May 30, 2024, from 11 AM to 9 PM Philippine Time, features a vibrant and aesthetic setup that has quickly become a must-visit spot for fans and mall-goers alike. The store’s interior is designed to be a visual delight, complete with colorful lights, dynamic soundscapes, and a continuous loop of IU’s popular songs, creating an immersive experience for customers.
One of the store’s highlights is its Instagrammable setup, featuring photo walls and a mini stage where fans can take pictures, capturing their moments in a setting inspired by IU’s concert. This interactive element has proven to be a significant draw, with fans eagerly posing for photos to share on social media.
The IU HEREH Pop-Up Store offers a wide range of merchandise, including both HEREH items and exclusive old tour merchandise with prices ranging from PHP150 to PHP3,950. These items are also displayed in the store, allowing fans to see the actual products before making a purchase. The merchandise includes everything from affordable memorabilia to premium items, ensuring there is something for every UAENA.
Stay updated on all things 2024 IU HEREH POP-UP STORE IN MANILA by following PULP Spaces+’s social media accounts. From merchandise previews to policy announcements, PULP Spaces+ is your go-to source for the latest updates.
The pop-up store serves as a prelude to the much-anticipated 2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT IN MANILA, scheduled for June 1, 2024, at the Philippine Arena. This concert marks IU’s return to the Philippines and has generated significant excitement among her fans. The pop-up store not only provides fans with exclusive merchandise but also builds up the anticipation for the upcoming concert, creating a holistic fan experience. The store has not only provided fans with exclusive merchandise but also a space to celebrate their admiration for IU, making it a must-visit spot from May 24 to May 30, 2024. Don’t miss out on this chance and grab exclusive merchandise before the concert!
Follow PULP Spaces+ on social media for the latest updates about the pop-up store.
The 5th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition starts February 15 until March 22, 2014 at Seaside Boulevard, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City. Buy your Tickets now at ticketworld.com.ph/pyrosmusical
Pyromusical Competition Schedule
February 15, 2014
Platinum Fireworks, Inc. of the Philippines (Opening Exhibition)
Howard and Sons Fireworks of Australia
February 22, 2014
Brunchu Pyro Experience of Spain
Jubilee Fireworks of United Kingdom (more…)
Platinum Fireworks, Inc. presents the 3rd Philippine International PyroMusical Competition at the Bayside, Mall of Asia Complex from February 11 to March 17, 2012.
At SM Mall Of Asia, the sea and sky meet for the most breath-taking display of explosive colours and electrifying music, the world has ever seen!
Schedule (show starts 7pm)
11 Feb 2012 – South Korea and Malta
18 Feb 2012 – United Kingdom and Spain
25 Feb 2012 – Finland and Portugal
03 Mar 2012 – China and The Netherlands
10 Mar 2012 – Australia and Canada
17 Mar 2012 – Italy and Philippines
For the opening Saturday, Feb. 11, experience Pyropalooza — the biggest and grandest Valentine’s day party of the year with special guest David Archuleta!
Rock Rizal: Celebrating Jose Rizal’s life & works through rock & roll. A project of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and Rock Ed Philippines.
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