SM Super Spelling Bee 2026: Contest Mechanics

1. INTRODUCTION

The SM Super Spelling Bee is an exciting and competitive spelling contest designed to test students’ spelling and language comprehension skills. The competition will consist of three main stages: the Elimination Stage, the Regional Semi Finals and the Grand Finals Stage, each with various phases to keep the competition fast-paced and engaging.

2. ELIGIBILITY

• The contest is open to students currently enrolled for academic year 2026-2027 in schools across the Philippines.
• Participants must be between the ages of 9 to 11 years old on the date of the elimination schedule and proficient in English spelling.

3. WHO ARE NOT ELIGIBLE TO JOIN

The following are not eligible to join the SM Super Spelling Bee 2026:

• Previous winners or placers from similar spelling contests (2025–2026) by companies/sponsors that may conflict with Shopping Center Management Corporation (“SCMC”), or its retail affiliates (SM Store, SM Markets and Toy Kingdom only) (collectively referred hereinafter as “SM Supermalls”)
• Top 10 winners of SM Super Spelling Bee 2025.
• Contestants who are children or relatives up to the third degree of consanguinity or affinity of employees and suppliers of Shopping Center Management Corporation (SCMC), sponsors, organizers, advertising agencies, and judges of the contest are not eligible to participate in this promotion.

Any contestant found ineligible will be disqualified at any stage, and all prizes and titles will be forfeited.

4. HOW TO JOIN
   • Parents or legal guardians of the students must complete the registration through one of the following channels:

• SM Malls Online (SMO) app
• smsupermalls.com/superspellingbee/
• In person at the Mall Administration Office (Marketing Department) of any participating SM Mall

4.2. Submission requirements:

• Completed and signed application form
• Original and photocopy of valid school ID or certificate of enrollment (original copy will be returned after proper verification of the photocopy)

4.3. Registration Schedule:

• Pre-registration via SMO app: Starts September 9, 2026 (10:00 AM)

The deadline varies depending on the contestant’s preferred elimination schedule and venue. Please refer to the table below for the registration schedule:

• Pre-registration via Mall Administration Offices: Starts September 9, 2026 (10:00 AM)
• Contestants may also submit their printed application and requirements at the Mall Administration Office (Marketing Department) of the participating SM Supermalls starting September 9, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
• The deadline depends on the contestant's preferred elimination schedule and venue. Please refer to the table below for the registration schedule:

• On-the-day Registration: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM at designated mall venues on the following dates:
• September 12, 2026
• September 19, 2026
• September 26, 2026
• October 3, 2026
• October 10, 2026

Note: Eliminations will begin at 2:00 PM, and the cut-off time for on-the-spot registration is 1:30PM.

• Schedule and Venue for Submission of Application Forms

• For participants that pre-registered via Mall Administration Offices, the mall where their application is submitted will be their elimination venue.
• For on-the-day registrants, the mall where their application is submitted will be their elimination venue.

5. CONTEST FORMAT

The SM Super Spelling Bee contest will consist of three main stages:

• Elimination Stage:
  • Phase 1: Written Spelling Test
  • Phase 2: Oral Spelling Test
• Regional Semi Finals Stage:
  • Phase 1: Written Spelling Test (all the semi-finalists from each mall)
  • Phase 2: Oral Spelling Test (for the top 7)
  • Phase 3: Final Oral Spelling Test (for the top 5)
• Grand Finals Stage:
  • Phase 1: Written Spelling Round (for the 18 grand finalists)
  • Phase 2: Special Oral Spelling Round (for the top 10)
  • Phase 3: Final Oral Spelling Round (for the top 3 using buzzer/signages)

6. GENERAL RULES

• Contestants must arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time for registration and orientation.
• Contestants are required to follow all instructions given by the emcees and judges throughout the event.

Prohibited behavior: Cheating, the use of electronic devices, or receiving outside assistance will result in immediate disqualification.

7. OFFICIAL DICTIONARY AND WORD SOURCE

• The Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary, available at http://unabridged.merriam-webster.com, is the official dictionary and word source for the SM Super Spelling Bee. Unless otherwise noted, it will serve as the authoritative reference for all rounds of the competition. Words marked as archaic or obsolete will not be eligible for use.
• The list of competition words will be selected by an official from our contest partner, National University, and verified by a representative from the SM Super Spelling Bee team.
• The word list will be accessible only to event organizers and participating malls during the competition, including both the eliminations and grand finals. The SM Super Spelling Bee team will provide a link to the word pool exactly one (1) hour before the start of the program.

8. ELIMINATION STAGE: CONTEST PROCEDURE AND MECHANICS

8.1. ELIMINATION STAGE: PHASE 1 – WRITTEN SPELLING TEST

Objective: To assess the contestants' ability to spell words correctly. The top 10 contestants from this phase will move on to the Oral Spelling Test.

1. Contestant Grouping & Preparation:
   • Contestants will be divided into batches of up to 20 participants each, depending on the total number of registrations.
   • Each contestant will receive a spelling sheet and a marker.
2. Word Pronunciation & Time Limit: The pronouncer will announce the word, pronouncing it twice, followed by the definition and usage in a sentence.
3. Writing Time: Contestants will be given 10 seconds to write the word on their sheet.
4. Countdown Timer: A countdown timer will be displayed on a screen for all contestants to see, indicating the remaining time.
5. Signal to Start: Contestants must wait for the pronouncer's signal (e.g., “You may now begin spelling”) before starting to write the word. This ensures fairness and allows all participants to start at the same time.
6. Disqualification Rule:

• Contestants are strictly prohibited from spelling the word before the countdown timer begins or before the emcee gives the official signal (e.g., “You may begin spelling”).
• Contestants must be able to write the correct spelling of the word within 10 seconds.
• Violation of this rule will result in immediate disqualification, regardless of whether the answer is correct or not.

o      The timer will be clearly displayed on a screen, and the pronouncer will provide the clear verbal cue to begin.

1. Correction: Should a contestant wish to change an answer, they must cross out the first one and write the new answer below it, before the time is up.
2. Submission of Writing Sheets: Once the contestant has finished writing, they will submit their sheet to a staff member.
3. Accuracy Check & Immediate Elimination: A panel of judges will review each contestant's spelling sheet.
4. Elimination: Contestants who misspell the word will be eliminated from Phase 1.
5. Advancement: Only contestants who spell the word correctly will advance to the next round.
6. Next Round: After all batches complete their first round, only those who spelled their words correctly will move on to the next round.
7. Re-grouping:

• Contestants who correctly spelled their word in the first round will be re-organized into new groups with other correct spellers from their respective batches.
• New words will be provided to these new groups in the subsequent round.
• The same rules will apply in the subsequent rounds.

Example:

• First Round (Batch 1): Out of the 20 contestants, 8 contestants spelled the word correctly. These 8 will be joined by other contestants who spelled their words correctly in their respective batches (Batch 2, Batch 3, etc.).
• These contestants will now form a new group for the next round of words.
• Repeat: This process will continue until we have 10 contestants remaining who have correctly spelled the word in each round.

1. Multiple Rounds (If Necessary):

• If fewer than 10 contestants spell correctly in the first round, additional rounds will take place, introducing new words to give more contestants the chance to advance.
• As each round progresses, the group will shrink as more contestants are eliminated due to incorrect spelling. Contestants who continue to spell correctly will advance to the next round until we have exactly 10 contestants.
• In each new round, the remaining contestants will be grouped together based on their previous correct spelling performance.

1. Final Grouping & Advancement to Oral Spelling Phase:

After the final round, only 10 contestants who have correctly spelled the word in the most rounds will proceed to Phase 2: Oral Spelling Test.

8.2. ELIMINATION STAGE: PHASE 2 – ORAL SPELLING TEST

2. Advancement to Phase 2: The top 10 contestants from Phase 1 will advance to Phase 2.
3. Order of Spelling: Contestants will draw lots to determine their turn order.
   1. Word Pronunciation & Signal to Begin:

• The emcee will announce each contestant's word, and the contestant may choose only one of the following options:
• The definition of the word.
• The part of speech of the word.
• A sentence using the word.
• The pronouncer will announce the word, pronounce the word twice for the contestant and give them a signal (e.g., “You may begin”) to start spelling.
• Countdown Timer: A countdown timer will be displayed, giving the contestant 20 seconds to spell the word aloud.
• Contestants must pronounce the word before spelling it, spell the word aloud, and then pronounce the word again after spelling it.
  1. Disqualification Rule:
• Contestants are strictly prohibited from spelling the word before the countdown timer begins or before the pronouncer gives the official signal (e.g., “You may begin spelling”).
• Contestants must be able to pronounce the word before and after spelling the word within 20 seconds.
• Violation of this rule will result in immediate disqualification, regardless of whether the answer is correct or not.
• The timer will be clearly displayed on a screen, and the pronouncer will provide the clear verbal cue to begin.
  2. Elimination: Contestants who misspell the word or fail to complete the spelling within the time limit will be immediately eliminated from Phase 2.
  3. Continuation of the Phase: The contest will continue until only two contestant remain who spell their word correctly. These two contestants will be declared the winners of Phase 2 and will advance to the Regional Semi Finals Stage.
  4. Waitlist and Replacement Clause: The contestants who place 3rd, 4th, and 5th in the Phase 2 rankings shall automatically be included in the waitlist and may replace a declared winner who voluntarily withdraws from participating in the Regional Semi Finals for valid reasons. Replacement shall be based on the highest-ranked contestant on the waitlist. In the event of a tie, the organizers shall conduct a tie-breaker Oral Spelling Round to determine the replacement contestant.

9. REGIONAL SEMI FINALS STAGE: CONTEST PROCEDURE AND MECHANICS

9.1. REGIONAL SEMI FINALS PHASE 1: WRITTEN SPELLING ROUND

1. Contestants: The semi-finalists from the Elimination Stage will proceed to Phase 1 of the Regional Semi Finals.
2. Word Pronunciation & Signal to Begin:

• Pronouncer: The pronouncer will announce the word, pronouncing it twice, followed by the definition and usage in a sentence.
• Writing Time: Contestants will be given 10 seconds to write the word on their sheet.
• Countdown Timer: A countdown timer will be displayed on a screen for all contestants to see, indicating the remaining time.
• Signal to Start: Contestants must wait for the pronouncer's signal (e.g., “You may now begin spelling”) before starting to write the word. This ensures fairness and allows all participants to start at the same time.

1. Disqualification Rule:

• Contestants are strictly prohibited from writing or spelling before the countdown timer begins or before the pronouncer gives the official signal (e.g., “You may begin spelling”).
• Contestants must be able to write the word within 10 seconds.
• Violation of this rule will result in immediate disqualification, regardless of whether the answer is correct or not.
• The timer will be clearly displayed on a screen, and the pronouncer will provide the clear verbal cue to begin.

1. Submission & Accuracy Check:

• Contestants will raise their spelling sheets, and the judges will review them for accuracy.
• Finalists will earn a point for every word spelled correctly.

1. Advancement to Phase 2 (Oral Spelling Test):

• The first seven (7) contestants who correctly spell 10 words (or accumulate 10 points) during the written rounds will advance to Phase 2: Oral Spelling Test.
• Contestants will continue to participate in successive rounds of written spelling until 7 participants reach the 10-word milestone.
• Once 7 contestants have achieved this, they will move on to the next phase.

9.2. REGIONAL SEMI FINALS PHASE 2: ORAL SPELLING ROUND (TOP 7 CONTESTANTS)

1. Contestants: The top 7 contestants who advanced from the Written Spelling Round will now move to the Oral Spelling Round.
2. Order of Spelling: Contestants will draw lots to determine their turn order.
3. Word Pronunciation & Signal to Begin:

• The pronouncer will announce each contestant's word, and the contestant may choose only one of the following options:
  • The definition of the word.
  • The part of speech of the word.
  • A sentence using the word.
• The pronouncer will pronounce the word twice for the contestant and give them a signal (e.g., “You may begin”) to start spelling.
• Countdown Timer: A countdown timer will be displayed, giving the contestant 20 seconds to spell the word aloud.
• Contestants must pronounce the word before spelling it, spell the word aloud, and then pronounce the word again after spelling it.
  1. Disqualification Rule:
• Contestants are strictly prohibited from spelling the word before the countdown timer begins or before the pronouncer gives the official signal (e.g., “You may begin spelling”).
• Contestants must be able to pronounce the word before and after spelling the word within 20 seconds.
• Violation of this rule will result in immediate disqualification, regardless of whether the answer is correct or not.
• The timer will be clearly displayed on a screen, and the pronouncer will provide the clear verbal cue to begin.
  2. Elimination: Contestants who continue to misspell words, and fail to be part of the top 5 will be eliminated from Phase 2.
  3. Continuation of the Phase: The contest will continue until only five contestants who correctly spell their assigned words remain.
  4. Advancement to Phase 3: The Top five (5) contestants who spell the most words correctly will proceed to Phase 3: the Special Oral Spelling Round.

• . REGIONAL SEMI FINALS PHASE 3: SPECIAL ORAL SPELLING ROUND (TOP 5 CONTESTANTS)

1. Contestants: The top 5 contestants from Phase 2 will compete in the special round of oral spelling.
2. Order of Spelling: Contestants will draw lots to determine their turn order.
3. Mystery Paper Planes: In this Regionals round, every contestant will randomly select one (1) paper plane from a set of five (5) folded paper planes, each containing a hidden word. The paper planes will be labeled 1–5. After a contestant selects a paper plane, it will be handed to the pronouncer, who will pronounce the hidden word for the contestant to spell.
4. Word Pronunciation & Time Limit:

• The pronouncer will announce the word, pronouncing it twice, followed by the definition and usage in a sentence.
• Signal to Begin: In the buzzer/sign round, contestants may press the buzzer or raise their handheld sign at any point during the round — even before the emcee finishes the sentence or definition — if they are confident they know the correct spelling. The first contestant to signal will be acknowledged by the emcee and given the chance to spell the word.
• Countdown Timer: A countdown timer will be displayed, giving the contestant 20 seconds to spell the word aloud.
• Contestants must pronounce the word before spelling it, spell the word aloud, and then pronounce the word again after spelling it within 20 seconds.

1. Disqualification Rule:

• Contestants are strictly prohibited from spelling the word before the countdown timer begins or before the pronouncer gives the official signal (e.g., “You may begin spelling”).
• Contestants must be able to pronounce the word before and after spelling the word within 20 seconds.
• Violation of this rule will result in immediate disqualification, regardless of whether the answer is correct or not.
• The timer will be clearly displayed on a screen, and the pronouncer will provide the clear verbal cue to begin.

1. Elimination: Contestants will be ranked based on the time taken to correctly spell their mystery paper plane hidden words. At the conclusion of this Phase, only the top three (3) contestants with the fastest completion times shall advance to the Grand Finals and all other contestants will be eliminated.
2. Continuation of the Phase: If fewer than three (3) contestants correctly spelled their hidden words, the contestants who spelled their words incorrectly shall be given another opportunity to spell a new word, following the original order of spelling. The fastest contestant(s) to spell their new word correctly will complete the Top Three (3) Grand Finalists.
3. Advancement to the Grand Finals: The Top Three (3) contestants with the fastest completion times among those who correctly spelled their words in the Special Oral Spelling Round will be declared the winners of the Regional Semi Finals and will advance to the Grand Finals Stage.
4. Waitlist and Replacement Clause: The two (2) contestants in Phase 3 who do not advance to the Top 3 shall automatically be included in the waitlist and may replace a declared winner who voluntarily withdraws from participating in the Grand Finals for valid reasons. Replacement shall be based on the highest-ranked contestant on the waitlist. In the event of a tie, the organizers shall conduct a tie-breaker Oral Spelling Round to determine the replacement contestant.

10. GRAND FINALS STAGE: CONTEST PROCEDURE AND MECHANICS

10.1. GRAND FINALS PHASE 1: WRITTEN SPELLING ROUND

1. Contestants: The finalists/winners from the Regional Semi Finals Stage will proceed to Phase 1 of the Grand Finals.
2. Word Pronunciation & Signal to Begin:

• Pronouncer: The pronouncer will announce the word, pronouncing it twice, followed by the definition and usage in a sentence.
• Writing Time: Contestants will be given 10 seconds to write the word on their sheet.
• Countdown Timer: A countdown timer will be displayed on a screen for all contestants to see, indicating the remaining time.
• Signal to Start: Contestants must wait for the pronouncer's signal (e.g., “You may now begin spelling”) before starting to write the word. This ensures fairness and allows all participants to start at the same time.

1. Disqualification Rule:

• Contestants are strictly prohibited from writing or spelling before the countdown timer begins or before the pronouncer gives the official signal (e.g., “You may begin spelling”).
• Contestants must be able to write the word within 10 seconds.
• Violation of this rule will result in immediate disqualification, regardless of whether the answer is correct or not.
• The timer will be clearly displayed on a screen, and the pronouncer will provide the clear verbal cue to begin.

1. Submission & Accuracy Check:

• Contestants will raise their spelling sheets, and the judges will review them for accuracy.
• Finalists will earn a point for every word spelled correctly.
  1. Advancement to Phase 2 (Oral Spelling Test):
• The first 10 contestants who correctly spell 10 words (or accumulate 10 points) during the written rounds will advance to Phase 2: Oral Spelling Test.
• Contestants will continue to participate in successive rounds of written spelling until 10 participants reach the 10-word milestone.
• Once 10 contestants have achieved this, they will move on to the next phase.

10.2. PHASE 2: SPECIAL ORAL SPELLING ROUND (TOP 10 CONTESTANTS)

1. Contestants: The top 10 contestants who advanced from the Written Spelling Round will now move to the Oral Spelling Round.
2. Order of Spelling: Contestants will draw lots to determine their turn order.
3. Lighted Floor Challenge: Before the Final Round, the Top Ten (10) contestants will compete in the Lighted Floor Challenge. Starting from the designated starting line, each contestant will be given a series of words to spell based on the order of spelling. Every correct spelling will allow the contestant to advance by one (1) panel on the lighted floor. The first three (3) contestants to correctly spell five (5) words, equivalent to advancing five (5) panels, will reach the final three panels of the lighted floor and qualify for the Final Oral Spelling Round.
4. Word Pronunciation & Signal to Begin:

• The pronouncer will announce each contestant's word, and the contestant may choose only one of the following options:
  • The definition of the word.
  • The part of speech of the word.
  • A sentence using the word.
• The pronouncer will pronounce the word twice for the contestant and give them a signal (e.g., “You may begin”) to start spelling.
• Countdown Timer: A countdown timer will be displayed, giving the contestant 20 seconds to spell the word aloud.
• Contestants must pronounce the word before spelling it, spell the word aloud, and then pronounce the word again after spelling it.
  1. Disqualification Rule:
• Contestants are strictly prohibited from spelling the word before the countdown timer begins or before the pronouncer gives the official signal (e.g., “You may begin spelling”).
• Contestants must be able to pronounce the word before and after spelling the word within 20 seconds.
• Violation of this rule will result in immediate disqualification, regardless of whether the answer is correct or not.
• The timer will be clearly displayed on a screen, and the pronouncer will provide the clear verbal cue to begin.
  1. Elimination: Contestants who will not reach the final three panel will be eliminated.
  2. Advancement to Phase 3: The first three (3) contestants to correctly spell five (5) words and reach the final three (3) panels of the lighted floor shall advance to Phase 3: the Final Oral Spelling Round.

10.3. PHASE 3: FINAL ORAL SPELLING ROUND (TOP 3 CONTESTANTS)

1. Contestants: The top 3 contestants from Phase 2 will compete in the final round of oral spelling.
2. Buzzer/Signaling System: In this round, the contestants will have a buzzer or handheld sign to indicate when they are ready to spell. This ensures that only one contestant at a time will answer.
3. Word Pronunciation & Time Limit:

• The pronouncer will announce the word, pronouncing it twice, followed by the definition and usage in a sentence.
• Signal to Begin: In the buzzer/sign round, contestants may press the buzzer or raise their handheld sign at any point during the round — even before the emcee finishes the sentence or definition — if they are confident they know the correct spelling. The first contestant to signal will be acknowledged by the emcee and given the chance to spell the word.
• Countdown Timer: A countdown timer will be displayed, giving the contestant 20 seconds to spell the word aloud.
• Contestants must pronounce the word before spelling it, spell the word aloud, and then pronounce the word again after spelling it within 20 seconds.

1. Disqualification Rule:

• Contestants are strictly prohibited from spelling the word before the countdown timer begins or before the pronouncer gives the official signal (e.g., “You may begin spelling”).
• Contestants must be able to pronounce the word before and after spelling the word within 20 seconds.
• Violation of this rule will result in immediate disqualification, regardless of whether the answer is correct or not.
• The timer will be clearly displayed on a screen, and the pronouncer will provide the clear verbal cue to begin.
  1. Elimination & Winner:
• Elimination for Incorrect Spelling: Contestants who misspell the word or fail to complete the spelling within the time limit will be immediately eliminated from Phase 3.
• The contest will continue until one contestant remains who spells all words correctly.
• This contestant will be declared the Champion of the SM Super Spelling Bee and will win the Grand Prize.

10. PRIZES AND RECOGNITION

• The Champion will receive the Grand Prize and be crowned the SM Super Spelling Bee 2026 Champion.
• Other top contestants will receive consolation prizes, certificates, and medals.
• Please see the complete list of prizes below:

• Gift Certificates: Gift certificates are transferable but not convertible to cash.
• Prize Tax: A 20% prize tax on prizes exceeding Php 10,000 will be covered by SM Supermalls.
• Cash Prizes: All cash prizes will be issued by check in the name of the parent or guardian.
• Prize Redemption Period: Prizes must be redeemed within 60 days from the date of notification from SM Supermalls. Winners are notified on the day of the Grand Finals. After the redemption period, unclaimed prizes will be forfeited in accordance with Section 21.
• Please see Section 20 for the guidelines on claiming of prizes.

11. CONTEST FLOW AND TIMING

• Elimination Stage: Phase 1 (Written Spelling Test):
• Time: Approximately 5-10 minutes per batch of up to 20 contestants
• The top 10 contestants will advance to Phase 2
• Elimination Stage: Phase 2 (Oral Spelling Test):
• Time: Approximately 30 minutes for the top 10 finalists
• This phase will determine who advances to the Regional Semi Finals
• Regional Semi Finals Stage: Phase 1 (Written Spelling Round):
• Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Regional Semi Finals Stage: Phase 2 (Oral Spelling Round):
• Time: Approximately 30-45 minutes for the top 7 contestants
• Regional Semi Finals Stage: Phase 3 (Special Oral Spelling Round):
• Time: Approximately 15-30 minutes for the top 5 contestants
• Grand Finals Stage: Phase 1 (Written Spelling Round):
• Time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Grand Finals Stage: Phase 2 (Oral Spelling Round):
• Time: Approximately 30-45 minutes for the top 10 contestants
• Grand Finals Stage: Phase 3 (Final Oral Spelling Round):
• Time: Approximately 15-30 minutes for the top 3 contestants

12. JUDGES AND MODERATORS

• The contest will be overseen by official judges nominated by SM Supermalls, and from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to ensure proper conduct and fair judgment.
• A moderator (from SM Supermalls/event organizer) will ensure smooth execution of the contest and enforce time limits.

13. CODE OF CONDUCT

• Contestants must behave respectfully toward fellow participants, judges, and moderators.
• Unsportsmanlike conduct or violations of contest integrity will result in immediate disqualification.

14. ELIGIBILITY FOR SUBSEQUENT ELIMINATIONS

• Contestants who do not win in the eliminations at a specific SM Supermalls branch may still participate in future eliminations at other SM branches.
• A new application form and required documents must be submitted to the Mall Administration Office or the official event organizer on the day of the next elimination.

15. ANNOUNCEMENT OF GRAND FINALS QUALIFIERS

Contestants who qualify for the Regional Semi Finals and Grand Finals will be announced on the Facebook page of the SM Supermalls branch where they won, within 5 to 10 days after each elimination round. A representative of SM Supermalls – Marketing will also contact winners via phone and/or email.

16. FINALITY OF RESULTS AND DECISIONS

All decisions made by the judges nominated by SM Supermalls and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in connection with this Contest, including but not limited to the determination of winners, disqualifications, eliminations, and violations of the Contest Rules, shall be final and binding.

17. GRAND FINALS QUALIFICATION

The 18 representatives from the Regional Semi Finals will compete in the Grand Finals.

Date: November 14, 2026

Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Venue: Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila

18. TRAVEL EXPENSES FOR GRAND FINALISTS

SM Supermalls will cover the airfare for the grand finalists and one accompanying parent or guardian to and from Metro Manila. This applies only to finalists requiring air travel.

• Hotel Accommodations: SM Supermalls will provide hotel accommodations for all grand finalists and one accompanying parent or guardian.
• Other Expenses: All other expenses, including taxes, food, land transportation, and personal costs, will be the responsibility of the grand finalists and their accompanying parent or guardian.

19. CONTESTANT AND GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contestants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If a guardian is accompanying the contestant, the following must be submitted:
• A signed authorization letter from the parent(s)
• A copy of the parent’s and guardian’s valid IDs

The parent or guardian is responsible for the contestant’s behavior, safety, welfare, and any costs incurred during the contest.

• The contestant and their parent/guardian must:
• Follow all instructions from SM Super Spelling Bee representatives and event organizers.
• Abide by the contest’s rules and regulations.
• SCMC, event organizers, and staff are not liable for accidents, injuries, or loss of property during the contest period due to negligence or failure to comply with the contest rules.
• Parents and guardians are responsible for the care of their belongings and those of the contestant, including electronics and personal items. SCMC and event organizers are not liable for any loss or damage.

20. CLAIMING OF PRIZES

• GIFT CERTIFICATES: Prizes to be released after the Grand Finals:

1. SM Gift Certificates
2. National Bookstore Gift Cards
3. Power Mac Gift Certificates

To claim these prizes, please proceed to Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia after the Grand Finals program and provide the following requirements:

1. Photocopy of Winner’s School ID
2. Photocopy of Winner’s Birth Certificate
3. Photocopy of Parent’s valid Government-issued ID

• CASH PRIZES: Cash prizes will be issued by check within 60 days from the date of the Grand Finals.

Payee Name: Parent’s or Guardian’s Name

Requirements:

1. TIN ID of the Parent
2. Signed authorization letter from the parent – if the guardian will claim the prize.
3. Photocopy of Parent’s and/or Guardian’s valid Government-issued ID
4. TIN of the Winner (One-Time TIN) – if parent’s TIN ID is not available
5. Home Address, Email Address and Contact Number of the Parent/s

-

• For Metro Manila winners/consolation prize winners, checks will be released at the Head Office of SM Supermalls at the SM Prime Headquarters. Parents will be notified via email when the check is ready.
• SM Prime Headquarters, MOA Square, Mall of Asia Complex, Coral Way, corner Seashell Lane, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila
• Schedule of Releasing of Check: every Tuesday and Thursday only, 2 pm to 5pm

• For Provincial, Visayas, and Mindanao winners/consolation prize winners, a check will be released by the Representing Mall Branch of the contestants. Parents will be notified via email when the check is ready.

Requirements for the claiming of cash prize:

1. Photocopy of Winner’s School ID
2. Photocopy of Winner’s Birth Certificate
3. Photocopy of Parent’s valid Government-issued ID

• CERTIFICATE OF SCHOLARSHIP FROM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY: The Certificate of Scholarship from NU will be presented during the Grand Finals program. A designated representative from NU will formally award the scholarship certificate to the winners, with a representative from SM serving as a witness.

• LAPTOP/GADGET/GIFT CERTIFICATE FROM POWER MAC CENTER: Laptops, gadgets, and/or gift certificates from Power Mac Center will be awarded following the Grand Finals program. A designated representative from Power Mac Center will present the prizes to the winners, with a representative from SM acting as a witness.

21. PRIZE FORFEITURE

• Failure to claim the prize within sixty (60) days from receipt of notification will result in forfeiture of the prize in favor of SM Supermalls, with prior approval of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The prize shall be forfeited under any of the following circumstances:
• Failure to respond to the official notification of winning within sixty (60) days from date of notice;
• Failure to present valid identification and/or required documentation necessary to claim the prize;
• Non-compliance with the contest eligibility requirements;
• Violation of any of the official contest mechanics, terms, or conditions.

• Forfeited prizes will not be redeemable, transferable, or convertible to cash and shall be subject to DTI’s applicable rules and prior written approval.

22. List of Participating Malls, Schedules, and Number of Winners

ELIMINATIONS

REGIONAL SEMI FINALS

PER DTI FAIR TRADE PERMIT NO. FTEB-XXXXX, SERIES OF 2026