As SM Development Corporation (SMDC) celebrates its 20th year, Chairman Henry Sy Jr.’s leadership and legacy shine through in the communities they’ve built. What began as a goal to make homeownership accessible has evolved into a larger mission to create vibrant, sustainable communities that fulfill the Filipino dream. Guided by this dedication, Sy has steered SMDC to become a leading force in the Philippine real estate market.
A family legacy, a new vision
Inspired by his father, the late Henry Sy Sr., who transformed access to quality footwear in the Philippines, Henry Sy Jr. applied the same principle to housing. "When we started SMDC, it was driven by a need. So many Filipinos dreamed of owning a home but couldn’t find options that made it possible,” Sy shared. His father’s early experiences working in a family sari-sari store instilled in him the value of practical, reliable investments for everyday Filipinos. “For him it was shoes; for me it was housing,” said Sy, “I wanted to create a future where a Filipino family could have a beautiful home without being weighed down by financial stress.”
Expanding the vision
What began as a mission to make homeownership attainable evolved into a greater purpose: creating spaces where individuals and families could grow and thrive. “True homeownership involves creating vibrant communities where people can feel secure, make memories, and truly belong,” Sy reflected. As such, SMDC has incorporated resort-style amenities, green spaces, and thoughtfully designed services into each development, elevating the quality of life for residents and establishing SMDC as a pioneer in community-focused urban living.
Innovating through challenges
Sy has guided SMDC through the challenges of maintaining affordability without compromising quality in this rapidly evolving market. “We’ve had to constantly innovate to keep our homes within reach while building trust with potential homeowners,” he noted. This forward-thinking approach has allowed SMDC to continuously grow and adapt, responding to the ever-changing needs of Filipino families.
Looking ahead
As SMDC embarks on a new chapter, Sy’s vision is for SMDC to create sustainable communities across the country, with a commitment to creating homes that are both accessible and eco-friendly. "We’re investing in green technologies, energy-efficient features, and eco-friendly materials not just because they’re good for the planet but because they create healthier, more vibrant communities.” This approach ensures that SMDC developments are built to last, meeting the needs of both current and future generations.
Sy envisions further growth across the Philippines, offering diverse housing options while enhancing community engagement. “Our commitment to building sustainable, inclusive communities will only grow stronger. We aim to ensure that the voices of our homeowners guide our work,” he shared.
A lasting legacy of connection and belonging
Reflecting on the legacy he hopes to leave, Sy envisions SMDC being remembered not just for building homes but for fostering stability, connection, and pride. “I hope our legacy lives on in people’s lives, those who say, ‘This is where I started, where I found stability and belonging,’” he said.
As SMDC celebrates 20 years, the company’s mission—under Sy’s visionary leadership—continues to be driven by purpose and impact. SMDC stands as a cornerstone of the Filipino dream of homeownership, building communities that will last for generations to come.