ILOILO — Electric vehicle owners in Iloilo can now charge for free while shopping, dining, or catching a movie, as SM Supermalls expands its network of complimentary charging stations to 169 across 90 malls nationwide. The initiative puts Iloilo on the map as a welcoming destination for eco‑conscious travelers.
Charging While You Explore
The free charging station at SM City Iloilo is conveniently located at the second level of the SM Strata carpark building along Diversion Road in Mandurriao. The charger uses a Wallbox Pulsar Max 7.4 kW AC unit with a standard Type 2 connector, compatible with most modern electric vehicles. Visitors simply plug in, lock their car, and enjoy up to three hours of complimentary charging.
The service removes a significant barrier for EV drivers exploring the Visayas. Rather than mapping out charging stops or worrying about range, tourists can park at the mall and recharge both their vehicle and themselves. The mall's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Iloilo's heritage sites, esplanades, and culinary destinations.
A Growing Network Across the Archipelago
SM's 169 chargers span Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, making inter‑island EV travel increasingly practical. Each charging bay is UL‑certified and accredited by the Department of Energy, ensuring safety and reliability. The sheer scale of the network signals a maturing green infrastructure that positions the Philippines as a forward‑thinking destination.
For Iloilo City, the charger is part of a broader ecosystem. The city now hosts multiple public charging points, including stations at Festive Walk Mall, Richmonde Hotel, and Robinsons Place Iloilo. This density of options means EV drivers can confidently plan multi‑day stays, knowing they can top up their battery while exploring the city's famed gastronomy and heritage architecture.
Driving Sustainable Tourism
The initiative operates under the #SMGreenMovement, which aligns with the Department of Energy's efficiency campaign. By offering free charging, SM encourages the adoption of cleaner vehicles among both locals and visitors. Each electric kilometer driven reduces carbon emissions and supports the city's reputation as one of the most livable and bikeable urban centers in the Visayas.
Tourists who drive EVs tend to seek destinations that share their environmental values. Iloilo's investment in green mobility—from protected bike lanes to electric PUVs and now free EV charging—creates a consistent narrative of sustainability. The charging station becomes more than a utility; it becomes a statement that Iloilo welcomes the future of travel.
A Simple Process for Visitors
Using the charger requires no special apps or payments. Drivers pull into the designated bay, connect the Type 2 plug, and begin charging. Standard mall parking fees apply, but the electricity itself is completely free. The three‑hour courtesy limit ensures turnover so multiple vehicles can benefit throughout the day.
The station is accessible during regular mall hours, typically from ten in the morning until ten at night. For tourists staying at nearby hotels, an evening charge can replenish enough range for the next day's adventures. The convenience of combining charging with shopping or dining turns a necessary errand into a seamless part of the travel experience.
