For three decades, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (PSE: SMPH) has been a cornerstone of the Philippine economy, shaping the retail landscape with its iconic shopping malls.
As it celebrates this milestone anniversary, the property conglomerate is taking leisure development to new heights, bringing SM’s signature promise of “We’ve got it all for you” to life with exclusive escapes that blend refined comfort, diverse experiences and sustainable luxury.
“At SM Leisure Resort Residences, we're redefining what it means to live well,” explained Shirley C. Ong, executive vice president and business unit head of SM Leisure Resort Residences. "We're creating premium communities where families and their guests have privileged access to a holistic leisure environment amid stunning natural scenery.”
Living well at Tagaytay Highlands
Since 1994, Tagaytay Highlands has set the gold standard for luxury mountain resort living south of Metro Manila. With breathtaking vistas, a cool, invigorating climate and unparalleled amenities, it has become a refined sanctuary for those seeking a perfect retreat.
The visionary behind Tagaytay Highlands, Willy Ocier, chairman of Belle Corporation, conceptualized the estate as a reflection of the life he dreamed of for himself and his family.
"The beauty of Tagaytay Highlands lies in the lifestyle we've pioneered—a concept of active retirement," says Ocier. "Even if you’re only 30 or 40 years old, you can ‘retire’ on weekends, and that’s what Tagaytay Highlands offers."
In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the iconic estate embraced an expanded vision, unveiling new developments that emphasize wellness, sustainability and modern luxury.
“Tagaytay Highlands is evolving with its growing community," says Ong, who is now tasked with taking Ocier’s vision to the next level. "Our latest developments integrate contemporary designs, thoughtfully planned community hubs and dynamic activity spaces, creating an even more scenic, vibrant and engaging experience for residents and their guests."
Leading the charge is Trealva, a community of over 200 lots, with stunning 360-degree views of Taal Lake, Mt. Makiling, Mt. Banahaw and the Highlands area. Completion is slated for late 2025. Also underway is Primrose Parks, an exclusive and low-density village comprised of only 99 lots. Spread across 6.3 hectares, the project is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2025.
The Horizon Terraces Garden Suites offers five-storey, low-density residential condominiums with thoughtfully designed one- to two-bedroom units, tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern families— whether for work-and-study-from-home setups or serene spaces for rest and relaxation.
On the other hand, each townhouse unit in the Horizon Terraces Garden Villas offers a unique ground-floor den, a versatile space that can easily be transformed into a separate bedroom for extended family members or visiting friends. The second floor serves as a welcoming common area, designed to be a gathering point for family and friends to enjoy the breathtaking natural views. Two bedrooms on the third floor, on the other hand, are for owners to enjoy their own private space.
Further enriching the landscape with its recent groundbreaking is Highlands Residences, a five-tower mid-rise condominium project with sweeping views of Laguna de Bay and the surrounding mountainside. Tower 1 is scheduled for completion in the second half of 2027. Meanwhile, completion of Tower 2 is targeted for 2029.
Set sail to new possibilities at M Village
M Village, an exclusive residential enclave within the 200-hectare Marina Estates district in Hamilo Coast, Nasugbu, Batangas, redefines luxury living by seamlessly combining elegance, functionality and a deep connection to nature.
“Following the success of Pico De Loro Cove, Hamilo Coast proudly offers the newest premier beach resort town with Marina Estates, a dynamic, mixed-use resort destination, featuring an international-standard marina complemented by commercial and retail spaces,” highlighted Ong.
Scheduled for completion by late 2028, M Village will offer 177 lots, ranging from 301 to 705 square meters. The development affords unparalleled privacy and panoramic views of Mt. Naligang and the verdant Mangrove Park.
“M Village is one of the most prime locations to buy into right now. As the first residential community by the main entrance of Hamilo Coast, it provides both exclusivity and convenience,” explained Ong. “M Village is just 5 to 10-minute drive to Pico De Loro Club facilities.”
Further enhancing M Village's appeal, the Hamilo Marina and Hamilo Golf Course are planned for nearby development, ensuring that Hamilo Coast will be an integrated leisure resort destination.
All these leisure developments highlight SM Prime’s strategic shift to expand its portfolio beyond malls. From the unspoiled beauty of Hamilo Coast to the breathtaking heights of Tagaytay Highlands, SM Prime offers a gateway to elevated experiences, where convenience and luxury converge to create a life less ordinary.