Perhaps you’ve felt a buzz of energy at this busy intersection. It’s all thanks to Robinsons Galleria. Robinsons Galleria stands proudly at EDSA corner Ortigas Avenue in Quezon City. It is more than just a mall. It is a landmark.
Robinsons Galleria is the flagship mall of Robinsons Malls. John Gokongwei built it. He is the founder of JG Summit Holdings. The mall opened its doors on January 12 1990. Its gross floor area is approximately 216000 square meters.
Before Robinsons Galleria was built this land was open. The SSS owned it in the Ortigas Central Business District. In 1986 people protested here during the People Power Revolution. They stopped tanks going to Camp Aguinaldo and Camp Crame.
In 1987 John Gokongwei bought a large part of the land. The Archdiocese of Manila bought some land too. That portion is now the site of EDSA Shrine.
Construction of Robinsons Galleria began in mid-1988. It finished in late 1989. Robinsons Galleria was the first mall of Robinsons Malls. Since its opening, it has undergone several renovations. These expansions increased its area.
Robinsons Galleria boasts five levels. You will find over 400 shops here. There are also many dining options. Entertainment and service centers are available too.
The mixed-use complex includes two high-rise office towers. These are the Galleria Corporate Center and Robinsons Equitable Tower. Three hotels are part of the complex. They are Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria and Galleria Regency.
A major tenant is the DFA Consular Office NCR-Central. It is on the first floor of the Lingkod Pinoy Center. It opened in September 2012.
Robinsons Galleria has undergone several renovations since 1990. In 2012 a major facelift added 100000 square meters. This allowed for at least 50 new tenants. The latest redevelopment started in 2016.
The mall veranda hosts health and beauty service stores. The third floor has an upper veranda. It provides more dining choices.
The mall’s renovation includes wooden elements. This design is similar to Robinsons Galleria Cebu.
Robinsons Galleria is a major transport hub. It connects Metro Manila and Rizal. Five public transport terminals serve commuters. You can find jeepneys, buses, UV Express routes, and P2P buses here.
An urban legend about Robinsons Galleria once circulated. It claimed a half-snake, half-human creature lived in the basement. It was said to be a lucky charm of the Gokongwei family. It supposedly ate unsuspecting victims. Actresses Alice Dixson and Rita Avila were named as victims. Robina Gokongwei-Pe said the tale came from market competition. Alice Dixson dismissed the rumor as fake.
Today Robinsons Galleria continues to evolve. It provides a dynamic urban experience. It blends retail, dining, and entertainment. Robinsons Galleria remains a key destination in Metro Manila.