The truth is, the Philippines is a nation of mall-loving social creatures. These bustling places serve not just as retail centers but as vital social arenas where friends and family come together. Aside from that, being in a tropical country, they also provide essential relief from the sweltering heat we experience during summer with their ample air-conditioned spaces. Hence, many of us develop a deep familiarity with the diverse malls across the country.
This affinity for malls recently took an unexpected turn with the viral spread of a Facebook post discussing the most perplexing malls in Metro Manila. Garnering over 37,000 mixed reactions, 21,000 shares, and 9,800 comments at the time of this writing, the post ignited a spirited debate among Filipino social media users.
Furthermore, in the Facebook post, the author claimed that the interior layout of the mall is a complicated design, with small sections misleadingly appearing to connect to the main areas.
“Ang pinaka ayoko sa mall na ‘to ay nakakaligaw, hindi mo alam kung nasaang part ka ng mall. May parts na sobrang liit lang nung area tapos hindi pala connected sa pinaka main part ng mall ang napasukan mo. Hindi nga ako sigurado kung napuntahan ko na ang main part ng mall dito. Tapos pag nagtanong ka sa guard hindi mo din maintindihan kasi sobrang gulo ng design, hindi ko alam why this mall exists ito ang pinaka nakakairita puntahan at tambayan [What I dislike most about this mall is that it’s confusing; you don’t know which part of the mall you’re in. There are areas that are very small, and it turns out they’re not connected to the main part of the mall. I’m not even sure if I’ve been to the main part of the mall here. And when you ask the guard for directions, you still can’t understand because the design is so chaotic. I don’t know why this mall exists. It’s the most irritating place to visit and hang out],” the author added as an ending statement.
Contrary to the author’s allegations, a significant portion of commenters voiced a different perspective, suggesting that SM North EDSA is actually relatively straightforward to navigate compared to other malls around Metro Manila, and that the author’s sense of direction is likely the issue.
Moreover, a French TikToker complained about the way Glorietta was structured and even called out its architect. “I want your name and phone number because I have beef with you. This is unhinged,” she stated. Many social media users found it funny, but also couldn’t agree more as they shared the same experience with her.
@juliediemaus @ayala malls please explain yourselves 😂😂 #paristomanila #ayalamalls #glorietta ♬ original sound – Julie | Frenchie in Manila🇵🇭
Another user argued, however, that Shangri-la Plaza is way more confusing with its ‘Hogwarts-like’ design.
One more user asked to stop bashing Glorietta as it displays signs, making it easier for mall-goers to navigate the mall. However, she claims that what is worse for her is the SM Mall of Asia.
Moreover, a user argued that Trinoma Mall is even more confusing, dubbing it as ‘Trinomatic.’
Nevertheless, no matter how varied opinions may be, these malls undeniably stand as significant landmarks in Metro Manila. Not only that, it caters to a wide range of needs and preferences, appealing not only to the locals but also to foreigners visiting the country.
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