The Global Youth Summit (GYS) 2025 set a historic milestone as more than 40,000 young leaders, innovators, and advocates gathered across the Philippines through simultaneous events in SM malls nationwide.
Organized by SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Philippines, the summit amplified the collective voice of the Filipino youth as a nationwide movement for change.
A Nationwide Movement for Empowerment
From Luzon to Mindanao, students and youth organizations came together for keynote sessions, dynamic discussions, and collaborative activities that tackled pressing issues in empowerment, sustainability, innovation, and leadership.
“The youth are not just leaders of tomorrow—they are a driving force for change today. The Global Youth Summit proves what is possible when we empower young people nationwide,” said Royston Cabunag, SM Cares Program Director for Children and Youth.
Leonard Faustino, Executive Director of Global Peace Foundation Philippines, added: “Collaboration across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao has created one of the largest youth platforms in the country. This summit is proof that when given space and support, our youth can lead transformative change.”
Anchored on Global Goals
While the SM Mall of Asia Arena leg drew thousands of attendees and nationwide recognition, the heart of GYS 2025 was its nationwide reach. Simultaneous summits were held across 17 SM malls, each anchored on one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This approach ensured that every global goal was given equal focus, allowing young people from different provinces to present localized solutions and community projects tied to each SDG.
Shaping the Future Together
By empowering more than 40,000 Filipino youth across regions, SM Cares and its partners reaffirm their commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and meaningful participation on a national scale. The Global Youth Summit 2025 stands as one of the largest youth-driven movements in the country, uniting voices that will help shape the nation’s future.
Celebrating 40 Years with Every Filipino
The summit also coincides with SM Supermalls’ 40th anniversary, celebrating “40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You.” With 88 malls nationwide, SM continues to be a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while embracing sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity to redefine the malling experience and create meaningful impact for communities across the country.
