SM Hotels & Conventions corp. breaks ground on SMXCITE

SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has announced the groundbreaking of SMXCITE, the Philippines' largest international exhibition venue. This new addition to the SMHCC portfolio promises to redefine the landscape of Philippine events and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) opportunities.

Located in Pasay City, directly across from the SM MOA Arena within the SM Mall of Asia Complex, SMXCITE is set to become a premier destination for global trade fairs, exhibitions, and large-scale business events.

The official groundbreaking ceremony marked a significant milestone for SMX Convention Center, a flagship brand under SMHCC, which is leading the country’s fast-growing MICE sector.

The event was led by key figures, including SMHCC President Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy, SM Engineering Design and Development Corp. President Mr. Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., SMHCC Executive Vice President Ms. Peggy Angeles, and SMHCC Senior Vice President for Operations Mr. Walid Wafik. Their presence underscored the strategic vision behind the development of SMXCITE as a state-of-the-art venue for international events.

Set to be completed in early 2027, SMXCITE will introduce over 18,000 square meters of leasable trade hall space, effectively doubling the capacity of the SMX Convention Center Manila. With both venues combined, the SM Mall of Asia Complex will offer more than 35,000 square meters of flexible exhibition and event space, reinforcing its status as the country's foremost hub for international exhibitions and business events.

SMXCITE will feature five expansive exhibition halls, each capable of accommodating up to 803 standard 3x3-meter booths. The venue will also offer four fully equipped meeting rooms for breakout sessions and strategic planning engagements, along with two dedicated VIP lounges for high-level executives, dignitaries, and private delegations. This commitment to top-tier corporate hospitality reflects SMX’s dedication to seamless service and an elevated experience for all attendees.

Sustainability is central to the venue’s design, with natural lighting, energy-efficient infrastructure, and environmentally responsible principles integrated into the development. These features are aligned with the eco-conscious standards already established at SMX Manila.

When completed, SMXCITE will contribute to SMX Convention Center’s total leasable footprint of nearly 60,000 square meters, spanning key cities including Manila, Taguig, Mandaluyong, Clark, Olongapo, Bacolod, Cebu, and Davao. The expansion is part of SMHCC’s broader strategy to build future-ready venues that cater to a global audience.

“SMXCITE marks a pivotal step in our continued efforts to build future-ready venues that meet global standards,” said Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President for Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation. “With this new exhibition center, along with exciting projects on the horizon in Cebu and in Cabanatuan, we’re expanding our reach and reinforcing our commitment to elevate the Philippine MICE experience across the country.”

As the global events industry continues to evolve, SMXCITE is poised to position Metro Manila as a leading destination for international gatherings in Southeast Asia, helping to connect, inspire, and elevate industries across the globe.