16th SM Little Stars Launches with New Talent Categories

Now on its 16th year, the nationwide talent search returns with gender-neutral categories and life-changing prizes.

SM Supermalls officially kicked off the 16th season of SM Little Stars at the SM Mega Fashion Hall on June 2, 2025, unveiling exciting new program features aimed at elevating the experience for aspiring young performers across the country.

Launching the 16th season of SM Little Stars are (L-R): SM Supermalls Executive Vice President Jonjon San Agustin, National University Pep Squad coach Gab Bajacan, SM Little Stars 2017 Grand Winner Gaea Mischa, SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Marketing Hanna Carinna Sy, singer Sam Concepcion, Director Antoinette Jadaone, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Marketing Grace Magno, and NU Resource Development Director Pauline Guanzon.

One of the biggest changes this year is the shift away from gender-based categories. In 2025, children will compete in one of three unisex categories: singing, dancing, or a special talent. The “special talent” category welcomes a wide range of performances including gymnastics, acrobatics, acting, beatboxing, hula hoop, juggling, jump rope, musical instrument playing, ventriloquism, magic shows, painting, and drawing.

SM Little Stars 2017 Girl Grand Winner Gaea Mischa returns as part of this season’s panel of judges.

In 2024, more than 38,000 children from all over the Philippines auditioned to be the next SM Little Star. This year, preliminary auditions will take place in 67 SM malls nationwide, with registration officially opening on June 7, 2025.

Guardians can register their little stars through the SM Malls Online App, the SM Little Stars website, or in person at the Mall Administration Office (Marketing Department) of participating SM malls. On-the-day registration is available from 10AM to 2PM on scheduled preliminary screening dates. Preliminary screenings start on June 14, 2025.

SM Little Stars 2024 second runner-up Jan Ellaine Seares delivers an energetic dance performance.

Beyond being a platform to showcase young talent, SM Little Stars is a testament to SM’s commitment to community development. This year’s grand prizes include full scholarships at National University, over 750,000 pesos worth of cash and gift certificates, and a brand new car—life-changing rewards that open doors for children and their families.

Singer Sam Concepcion joins this year’s panel of SM Little Stars judges.

Previous winners of SM Little Stars have gone on to do amazing things. SM Little Stars 2013 achiever Esang de Torres is now a Star Magic artist. SM Little Stars 2016 Boy Grand Winner Marcus Cabais is part of the pop group HORI7ON. SM Little Stars 2017 achiever Elisia Parmisano has joined K-Pop girl group UNIS, and SM Little Star 2016 Girl Grand Winner Sheena Bentoy took a lead role in the Philippine run of “The Lion King.” The possibilities are endless with SM Little Stars!

“These opportunities don’t just transform lives—they’re meant to uplift families and inspire entire communities,” said Hanna Carinna Sy, Assistant Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls. “With the right support, every child has the power to shine.”

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