Set to become the Philippines’ largest international exhibition venue under SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation’s (SMHCC) brand portfolio, SMXCITE officially breaks ground in Pasay City. SMX Convention Center, the flagship convention center brand under SMHCC, is redefining the landscape of Philippine events with the launch of SMXCITE, a world-class venue now under development by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. It is strategically located right across SM MOA Arena, within the SM Mall of Asia Complex, which is dubbed as one of the country’s most connected business and lifestyle districts.

The official groundbreaking ceremony marked a bold step forward for SMX Convention Center, strengthening its leadership in the country’s fast-growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. The event was led by SMHCC President Elizabeth T. Sy, SM Engineering Design and Development Corp. President Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., SMHCC Executive Vice President Peggy Angeles, and SMHCC Senior Vice President for Operations Walid Wafik—underscoring the strategic vision behind this landmark development.

Upon its completion in early 2027, SMXCITE will introduce over 18,000 square meters of leasable trade hall space to the SMX portfolio, effectively doubling the capacity of SMX Convention Center Manila. Together, both venues will offer over 35,000 square meters of flexible exhibition and event space within a single destination, further positioning the SM Mall of Asia Complex as the country’s premier hub for international exhibitions, trade fairs, and large-scale business events.

Purpose-built to meet international standards, SMXCITE will feature five expansive exhibition halls, designed to accommodate up to 803 standard 3x3-meter booths. Complementing these are four fully equipped meeting rooms, ideal for breakout sessions, closed-door discussions, and strategic planning engagements. Two dedicated VIP lounges will provide an elevated experience for top-level executives, dignitaries, and private delegations that reflect SMX’s commitment to corporate hospitality and seamless service.

The venue can host a little over 18,000 guests and is engineered to support large-format events for both local and global audiences. Sustainability is also central to the development, such that SMXCITE will incorporate natural lighting, energy-efficient infrastructure, and environmentally responsible design principles aligned with SMX Manila’s eco-conscious benchmarks.

With this expansion, SMX Convention Center’s total leasable footprint across its national network will grow to nearly 60,000 square meters, spanning key cities including Manila, Taguig, Mandaluyong, Clark, Olongapo, Bacolod, Cebu, and Davao.

“SMXCITE marks a pivotal step in our continued efforts to build future-ready venues that meet global standards,” said Wafik. “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 notable player in Southeast Asia’s MICE arena, making it ready to host future-forward gatherings that connect, inspire, and elevate industries.