The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has begun construction on a new cadet facility, the Henry Sy Sr. Hall, as part of a long-term strategy to expand its corps and modernize leadership training.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on the academy’s grounds in Baguio, marks a collaboration with SM Prime Holdings Inc. The project supports the PMA’s “Growth Plan,” which aims to increase the Cadet Corps to 2,000 members by 2040.

Designed by JSLA Architects, the two-story structure will feature a multipurpose hall capable of seating 2,500 people and the space is intended for training exercises, official functions, and indoor sports.

Builders expect to complete the hall by 2028, with a design tailored to the specific climate of the Cordillera region.

“The future of the Philippines depends on strong leadership, and strong leadership is shaped by strong institutions,” said Hans T. Sy, chairman of the SM Prime Executive Committee. “We hope to provide a facility that supports the academy’s continued evolution.”

Academy officials cited that the hall is a key component of a larger infrastructure push, which includes a new mess hall and upgrades intended to position the PMA as a primary hub for disaster response in Northern Luzon.

For more than a century, the PMA has served as the premier training ground for the country’s armed forces and government leaders.

As the academy prepares for an increased enrollment base, officials said private-sector investment in shared spaces has become essential to maintaining its training standards.