SM Supermalls officially launches SM Little Stars 2026 with a colorful celebration filled with excitement, confetti, and big dreams ready to shine on stage.

MANILA, Philippines, 22nd May 2026 — Calling all kids and parents! SM Supermalls’ search for the brightest young talents is back.

SM Supermalls invites kids aged 4 to 7 to join SM Little Stars 2026, where they can sing, dance, perform, and confidently take the stage. Now in its 17th year, the program has helped launch the journeys of some of the country’s promising young performers.

“Every child deserves a chance to discover what makes them shine. Through SM Little Stars, we want to give kids a fun, encouraging space where they can express themselves, build confidence, and create unforgettable memories,” said Hanna Carinna T. Sy, SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Leasing.

“SM Little Stars has always been about more than talent, it’s about helping children believe in themselves, step out with confidence, and enjoy being on stage,” Sy said.

Star Magic artist and SM Little Stars alumna Esang de Torres takes the stage to serenade the crowd during the official launch of SM Little Stars 2026.

SM Little Stars 2026 will crown two Grand Winners: the Grand Shining Star, for outstanding talent that lights up the stage and wins hearts, and the Grand Dazzling Star, for charm, confidence, and stage presence that captivates audiences.

“This year, we are making SM Little Stars more inclusive by celebrating how children shine, through their talent, personality, and presence, because every child’s light is unique and worth celebrating,” Sy added.

Beyond the competition, SM Little Stars is a journey of discovery where kids can explore their talents, build confidence, and share meaningful experiences with fellow young performers.

The SM Little Stars 2026 preliminaries will run on weekends from May 30 to July 5, followed by regional rounds on July 11, 12, 18, and 19. The Grand Finals will be on August 8, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

As part of the Gala To The Max campaign, the program will be staged across 68 SM Supermalls nationwide, with SM City La Union and SM City Zamboanga joining as new participating malls.

This year’s Grand Finals judges include singer and host Karylle, filmmaker Antoinette Jadaone, OPM hitmaker Jonathan Manalo, choreographer Angel Datanagan, and Marcus Cabais, SM Little Stars 2016 Grand Winner.

SM Little Stars alumni gather at the press launch of SM Little Stars 2026 as SM Supermalls officially begins its nationwide search for the next generation of little stars.

Last year, Xian Echo Zamora of SM City Cabanatuan impressed audiences with his drumming and singing performance, continuing the legacy of standout young performers discovered through SM Little Stars.

Over the years, the program has helped nurture talents such as Star Magic artist Esang de Torres, boy group member Marcus Cabais, UNIS member Elisia Parmisano, and musical theater performer Sheena Bentoy.

“At your most-loved SM Supermalls, we believe every child deserves a stage where they can express themselves freely, have fun, and be celebrated for who they are,” Sy said.

From first-time performers to future stars, SM Little Stars 2026 invites kids nationwide to join a maxed-out experience filled with fun, friendship, discovery, and unforgettable moments.

Parents can register via the SM Malls Online App, www.smsupermalls.com/smlittlestars/, or at the Mall Administration Office.

###

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.