Caring for Culture: SM’s Important Work on Iloilo’s Molo Mansion

At first glance, Molo Mansion looks straight out of a history book. This American-Neoclassical property in Iloilo was built in 1926 by Don Estanislao Yusay. Do you ever wonder why centuries-old buildings like this still stand strong despite the extreme weather conditions in the country? It’s simple: when you take care of things, they last!

Acquired by SM Prime in 2014, the mall giant preserved this historical building and transformed it into a cultural hub. Ten years later, the Molo Mansion continues to connect past and present, bringing people and art together in style.

So, what’s happening there? 

Today, it houses Kultura Filipino, the country’s premier souvenir brand, along with various food shops and cafes. It also serves as an art space. Where local talents can exhibit and perform.

On the second floor, you’ll find an art gallery, where local artists get to exhibit their creative works. The mansion grounds also serve as a venue for musical events and cultural activities. Beyond that, it also hosts wellness activities like yoga sessions.

Art blooms in Iloilo!

One of the most notable contributions of Molo Mansion is its role as an art gallery for the Himbon Ilonggo Contemporary Artists Group and their associates. The mansion has hosted numerous art exchanges and partnership shows, such as the Bayluhanay series and the “My City, My SM, My Art” roadshow, which celebrated Philippine visual arts, painting, sculpture, and more. 

Molo Mansion has encouraged Ilonggos to appreciate art more, uniting them through a showcase of their very own homegrown talents. Since 2018, SM has hosted the Bayluhanay series with Himbon members and Alfredo Esquillo’s Eskinita Art Gallery. Bayluhanay, which means ‘exchange’ in Hiligaynon, aims to promote learning and collaboration among artists. 

The “Group of Twelve” exhibit in January 2020 featured Ilonggo art from the past five decades, showing how the local art scene has grown and achieved important milestones.

READ: Mayor Jerry Trenas Sparks a New Era for Iloilo City

So the next time you’re in town, why not take a detour to Molo Mansion? Witness SM Prime’s efforts to preserve the memories and values that define Ilonggo art. In this building, those who have shaped the local scene and opened doors for upcoming generations of artists are honored, as they should be.