Robinsons Malls: Championing youth development through sports

Robinsons Malls is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of athletes by providing a platform where they can excel in their chosen sports. As part of its commitment to youth development across the nation, Robinsons Malls offers venues for various sporting events, including the popular martial art of Taekwondo. Quarterly local and regional tournaments are hosted in Robinsons Malls nationwide, giving young athletes the opportunity to compete and improve their skills.

In Luzon, the biggest Taekwondo competition is held annually at Robinsons Antipolo. In partnership with the Philippine Taekwondo Association, this event attracts hundreds of young athletes from the CALABARZON region. The competition features Poomsae and Kyurogi categories, open to a range of ages, providing a platform for athletes of all levels to showcase their talents.

Beyond events, Robinsons Malls also offers RMalls Academy, a free learning program during the summer break that is highly popular among young children. The Taekwondo workshops, led by skilled instructors, help participants gain confidence, discipline, and physical agility. These workshops have been held in various Robinsons Mall locations, including Robinsons Galleria, Robinsons Otis, Robinsons Malabon, Robinsons Starmills, Robinsons Angeles, Robinsons Luisita, Robinsons Gapan, Robinsons Imus, and many more across the country.

One notable success story from RMalls Academy is Sally Mae Aguire from Tacloban. After joining the program in 2022, Aguire went on to become a member of the National Taekwondo Team. She earned a bronze medal at the 2023 ASEAN Taekwondo Championship and represented the Philippines at the World Junior Taekwondo Championship in Lebanon.

The Taekwondo competitions, held in partnership with the Philippine Taekwondo Association, local city sports commissions, and the Department of Education, offer athletes a valuable opportunity to compete at different levels, gain experience, and grow in their sport. These events, hosted at Robinsons Malls, provide convenient access to mall amenities for athletes, coaches, and their families, enhancing the overall experience.

Raquel S. Advincula, the Taekwondo Focal Person for DepEd Region VIII, praised Robinsons Malls for their support. “Robinsons Malls has been a vital partner in the success of our Taekwondo program. Their support goes beyond just providing a venue. Their commitment to ensuring smooth participation in DepEd competitions has been invaluable, allowing us to focus on the athletes and the competition rather than logistical concerns,” she said.

Robinsons Malls’ dedication to sports and youth development was recently recognized when they were awarded Mall Sports Venue of the Year 2023 by the Sports Turismo Alliance at the 6th Tourism Awards held at NUSTAR Resort in Cebu on November 22, 2024. This prestigious award reflects Robinsons Malls’ commitment to fostering sports like Taekwondo, reinforcing its role not just as a shopping, dining, and entertainment destination, but as a launchpad for young athletes’ careers.

Looking ahead, Robinsons Malls will continue to support sports and remain dedicated to helping the youth access workshops and training in their local communities. Robinsons Malls is committed to being a partner for the athletes of tomorrow.