Malls Offering Free Shelter, Parking as Heavy Rains Hit Greater Manila Area

For the past few days, severe flooding has wreaked havoc in parts of Luzon and the Visayas due to the southwest monsoon or habagat. The weather system, characterized by warm and humid winds that bring about rainfall, triggered heavy downpour in Metro Manila and its nearby areas. This, as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said it is monitoring two low pressure areas (LPAs) on Tuesday, which may soon develop into full-blown tropical cyclones and worsen the situation even more.

Several malls have stepped up to provide temporary shelter for those affected by flooding in the Greater Manila Area. These establishments offer overnight parking slots free of charge, as well as access to Wi-Fi, charging stations, restrooms, and help desks.

Here’s the list of the participating malls, plus pet-friendly evacuation sites to keep your fur babies away from danger, as of August 17.

SM Supermalls 

SM Supermalls has opened its doors to “those who wish to seek temporary shelter from heavy rains, strong winds, and flooding caused by the southwest monsoon.”

Aside from free overnight parking, their branches provide Wi-Fi, charging stations, and help desks for evacuees.

• SM Megamall
• The Podium
• SM North EDSA
• SM Center Congressional
• SM Center Pasig
• SM Center Shaw
• SM Mall of Asia
• S Maison
• MOA Square
• SM Aura
• SM Southmall
• SM Center Las Piñas
• SM City Valenzuela
• SM Center Sangandaan
• SM City Grand Central
• SM City Fairview
• SM City Novaliches
• SM City Caloocan
• SM City Manila
• SM City San Lazaro
• SM Savemore Nagtahan
• SM City Sta. Mesa
• SM City BF Parañaque
• SM City Bicutan
• SM Center Muntinlupa
• SM City Sucat
• SM City Marikina
• SM City East Ortigas
• SM City Masinag
• SM City San Mateo
• SM City Taytay
• SM City Marilao  
• SM City Baliwag 
• SM Center Pulilan 
• SM City San Jose del Monte 
• SM City Santa Rosa
• SM City Calamba
• SM Center San Pedro 
• SM City Dasmariñas 
• SM City Trece Martires 
• SM City Tanza

Robinsons Malls

Those in need of safer spaces for either themselves or their vehicles may also rely on Robinsons Malls during extreme weather conditions. 

Their overnight parking fees are waived, while people may stay inside with access to Wi-Fi and charging stations.

• Robinsons Galleria Ortigas
• Robinsons Manila
• Robinsons Magnolia
• Robinsons Otis
• Robinsons Malabon
• Robinsons Novaliches
• Robinsons Metro East
• Robinsons Antipolo
• Robinsons Cainta
• Robinsons Malolos
• Robinsons Imus 

Ayala Malls

Ayala Malls have converted their branches into temporary community shelters, with waiting areas, restrooms, and charging stations open beyond operating hours.

Participating branches have also waived their overnight parking fees.

• Ayala Malls Manila Bay 
• Ayala Malls Cloverleaf
• Ayala Malls Fairview Terraces 
• Ayala Malls Trinoma 
• Ayala Malls U.P. Town Center 
• Ayala Malls Vertis North 
• Ayala Malls Feliz 
• Ayala Malls The 30th
• Ayala Malls Serin 
• Fisher Mall

Megaworld Lifestyle Malls

Megaworld Lifestyle Malls are giving motorists, shoppers, and evacuees alike the option to stay within their premises when heavy rains occur.

Those with vehicles may avail of their free overnight parking and electric vehicle (EV) charging slots. Essential shops are also open for immediate needs.

• Uptown Bonifacio 
• Forbes Town
• McKinley Hill
• Venice Grand Canal Mall
• Eastwood City 
• Paseo Center
• San Lorenzo Place Mall
• Three Central Mall
• San Antonio Place 
• Lucky Chinatown 
• Alabang West Parade 
• Maple Grove Parade 
• Twin Lakes 
• Southwoods Mall

Filinvest Malls

Down south, Filinvest Malls are keeping their facilities open as bad weather persists in the Greater Manila Area. 

While only limited branches offer free overnight parking, Wi-Fi, charging stations, and restrooms are accessible to the public across all participating establishments.

• Festival Mall Alabang
• West Gate (Alabang)
• Bloc 10 (Alabang)
• South Station (Alabang)
• Fora Mall Tagaytay
• Main Square Bacoor

Vista Malls

Evacuees are likewise welcome at select Vista Malls, specifically in General Trias and Dasmariñas in Cavite, as well as Laguna. 

Overnight parking, Wi-Fi, charging stations, and restrooms are all free of charge.

Aside from these malls, other establishments, such as the Tutuban Center in Manila, are open to those seeking safer ground amid the inclement weather.

LGUs with Pet Evacuation Areas

Pets deserve just as much care during times like this. Fortunately, some local government units (LGUs) have also set up evacuation centers for animals.

The following provide collapsible crates and pet food for dogs and cats, as well as designated spaces to help ensure their safety:

• Quezon City Veterinary Department
• Marikina LGU
• Parañaque LGU

Visit this page for emergency hotlines and other essential needs.

Stay safe and dry, CINQtizens!

Words by Geora Laine Mercene