The irresistible aroma of freshly baked dough, the rich tang of slow-simmered tomato sauce, and the creamy indulgence of delicate milky mozzarella–all coming together in perfect harmony. This is the unmistakable experience of Rossopomodoro–, the largest pizza chain in Italy, now officially landing in the Philippines, with its first-ever branch in Asia at SM Mall of Asia.

As the Home of Firsts, SM Supermalls continues to open new experiences for Filipinos, bringing them closer to world-class dining experiences, and Rossopomodoro is the latest proof of that commitment. 

With the arrival of Rossopomodoro’s very first branch in Asia, diners can finally experience the authentic flavor of Naples and true Italian culinary craftsmanship through a signature blend of fresh ingredients, time-honored traditions, and a carefully curated selection of authentic wood-fired pizza.

A pizza-cutting ceremony opened Rossopomodoro’s grand launch at SM Mall of Asia, celebrating Italian heritage and flavor while marking the start of a new culinary journey for Filipino diners. Guests got their hands doughy as they experienced firsthand the art of crafting the perfect bite–kneading traditional Neapolitan dough from scratch under the guidance of Italian pizzaiolos. Rossopomodoro takes pride in its long-standing culinary traditions and fresh, high-quality ingredients, crafting pizzas, pastas, and Italian specialties that have earned it a place among the world’s most recognized pizzerias.  

Guests indulged their senses in a vibrant setting filled with free-flowing drinks, live DJ music, and a feast of Rossopomodoro’s world-famous signature dishes. The Pizza Verace, topped with San Marzano tomatoes and creamy mozzarella di bufala, delivered the rich, classic flavors of Naples, while the Pizza Reginella delighted with its fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil. For pasta lovers, the Linguine Gamberi e Limone offered a bright, zesty combination of succulent shrimp and citrus-infused olive oil—each dish a true taste of Italy’s finest culinary traditions."

Rossopomodoro’s first branch in Asia joins an ever-growing list of first-in-market dining concepts that have chosen SM as their Philippine home. From New York’s finest burgers to Japan’s most sought-after ramen, SM continues to lead the way in bringing global flavors to Filipino diners.

With more international brands arriving soon, SM remains the country’s top destination for discovering world-class dining experiences. Because at SM, the best flavors from around the world aren’t just out there—they’re already here, waiting to be savored.

Visit Rossopomodoro at Level 1, North Entertainment Mall in SM Mall of Asia and enjoy a true taste of Naples. For more exciting first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, a 67-hectare landmark along Manila Bay, showcases SM Prime Holdings’ commitment to leveraging technology and innovation for disaster resilience and community protection for all its projects.

Initially conceived as a pioneering mixed-use development on reclaimed land spearheaded by the Philippine government, it has evolved into a benchmark of safety and stability, fulfilling the vision of founder Henry Sy, Sr., who aspired to create “a destination that brings joy and opportunities to millions.”

Expanding on his father’s vision, Hans Sy, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman and co-chair of ARISE Philippines under the United Nations Office of Disaster Risk Resilience (UNDRR), emphasizes the importance of creating resilient, sustainable spaces that prioritize both safety and community well-being.

"We believe that safety is the cornerstone of thriving communities," Mr. Sy states. In affirmation of this belief, he stands as the first Filipino elected to the UNDRR ARISE Global Board.

Launched in 2015, ARISE Philippines is the country’s 157-member-strong premier private sector alliance united by a shared vision of a resilient and prosperous future. The organization, the first country network established by the UNDRR, aims to minimize disaster-related loss of life, ensure investments and assets are risk-informed, and build infrastructure capable of withstanding both natural and man-made hazards.

SM Prime’s commitment to resilience is evident in the very design of the MOA Complex, which incorporates cutting-edge disaster resilience features to protect against the unique challenges posed by its coastal location.

Before construction began, SM Prime engaged the expertise of Jan de Nul, a renowned Belgian coastal development company. Their extensive research and studies ensured the viability of the project, taking into account the complex interplay of land and sea. To create a resilient structure, the company conducted risk reviews in which the following components are incorporated: Identify, analyze, plan, mitigate, and monitor. This meticulous pre-engineering phase laid the groundwork for a structure, completed in 2006, that was capable of withstanding the test of time and nature.

One of the key challenges addressed was soil erosion. To combat this, the team implemented a sophisticated system of wick drains. These drains act as pathways for pore water in soft, compressible soil, effectively preventing erosion and ensuring the stability of the land. This technology, while more costly than traditional methods, provides a significantly higher degree of protection, particularly against liquefaction during seismic events.

The threat of ground liquefaction, a phenomenon where soil loses its strength and behaves like a liquid during earthquakes, was also mitigated through innovative foundation design. Driven and bored piles, combined with precise excavation methods, provide the complex with robust resistance against liquefaction and seismic activity.

Reference photo for the driven piles methodology, which protects against soil liquefaction and provides strength against earthquakes.

To protect against storm surges, a common threat in coastal areas, the complex boasts a robust seawall. This seawall, standing 4.5 meters higher than the Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) mark, is further reinforced by a wave return feature. This inverted structure deflects high waves back towards the sea, minimizing their impact on the complex. A network of drainage channels further enhances flood prevention during storm surges.

These features were instrumental in protecting the complex during Typhoon Pedring (international name Nesat) in 2011, as well as in all succeeding severe weather disturbances this year, where the MOA Complex emerged largely unscathed while helping nearby areas avoid being inundated by prolonged deep flooding.

The wave return feature redirects water back into the bay, providing protection from high waves.

The Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex higher seawall and elevation prevent damage to the structure from rising sea levels. (Inset) In addition, the drainage channels along the MOA Complex are wide and deep enough to fit two buses side by side, helping prevent flooding from storm surges.

The complex's resilience extends beyond its foundation. The main road and all structures are elevated significantly above the National Building Code requirements, further minimizing the risk of flooding. Buildings are equipped with Earthquake Recording Instruments (ERI) that monitor seismic activity and provide valuable data for disaster preparedness.

The structural integrity of the buildings themselves is also paramount. The roof deck, for instance, is designed to withstand substantial loads, ensuring it can serve as a safe refuge during emergencies. The exterior façade is concrete masonry walls with Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS), designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 270 kph and provide excellent insulation. This commitment to safety transforms SM Supermalls like the SM MOA into havens for the community during times of crisis.

SM Prime's dedication to disaster resilience is not merely a response to potential threats; it is a proactive strategy integrated into the DNA of all its business operations. The company automatically allocates a significant portion of its capital expenditure to disaster resilience research and construction, recognizing that investing in safety is an investment in the future.

SM Prime's longstanding reputation as a responsible property developer is built not only on its contributions to the country’s economic growth and the creation of dynamic lifestyle destinations, but also on its unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and livelihoods of the communities it serves. The MOA Complex stands as a powerful symbol of this commitment, a beacon of resilience in the face of natural adversity.