As the year wraps up and the festive season winds down, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the achievements that defined the past months. Awards like the PropertyGuru Icon Award provide an opportunity to celebrate individuals who have made lasting impacts, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in their fields.
Henry T. Sy, Jr., affectionately known as “Big Boy,” received the prestigious 2024 PropertyGuru Icon Award at the 19th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final on December 13, 2024, at The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok. The evening’s only individual award, the special Publisher’s Choice accolade, celebrated his legacy of leadership, innovation, and sustainability. As the highest honor of the event, it was granted by the Editors of Property Report by PropertyGuru.
A trailblazer in real estate, Sy has been instrumental in transforming the industry. As chairman and CEO of SM Development Corporation (SMDC) and a leader at SM Prime Holdings, he has redefined urban living by making homeownership accessible to more Filipinos. Through thoughtfully designed communities that blend residential, commercial, and leisure spaces, he has created environments that foster connection and elevate everyday life.
“At SMDC, owning a home is more than just having a roof over one's head. It's about security, dignity, and opportunity. We aim to make real estate a right, not only as a luxury, but provide every Filipino with access to affordable, yet world-class homes.” Sy said.
In his acceptance speech, Sy also expressed that the award wasn’t just about him—it was a tribute to the collective effort of his team, his partners, and his father’s vision. “This recognition is particularly meaningful as it marks a year of incredible milestones,” he said. “My father, the late Henry Sy, Sr., would have turned 100 this year, and SM Development Corp. is celebrating 20 years of building communities that empower Filipinos.”
Beyond brick and mortar, Sy emphasizes corporate social responsibility and a commitment to sustainability, setting benchmarks for green building practices—a principle deeply rooted in his father’s vision. “My father once said, ‘To serve the Filipino people is my greatest joy.’ His vision taught us that business is not just about profit, but about service. This belief continues to inspire my dream of building a nation of homeowners,” he shared. This philosophy drives his initiatives in education, disaster relief, and environmental protection, embodying the values his father instilled.
As SMDC marks its 20th anniversary alongside the 100th birth anniversary of his father, Sy.'s recognition with the PropertyGuru Icon Award highlights the lasting legacy of the Sy family in reshaping real estate and building stronger communities.