SM Investments Corporation, the flagship of the Sy family, remains optimistic in 2025 despite being mindful of the challenges posed by high interest rates and the volatile global trade environment.

“With our unique ecosystem of businesses, our market-leading positions and our ability to invest boldly in the future, we are confident that we will continue to deliver sustained growth and value to our stakeholders,” said SMIC Chairman Amando M. Tetangco Jr. during the firm’s annual stockholders’ meeting.

For his part, SMIC President and CEO Frederic C. DyBuncio said that, “As we approach 2025, we remain committed to driving purposeful growth, confident that moderation in inflation and a robust economy will unlock new opportunities for the country’s consumer-driven economy.”

To back up this confidence and fund its continued growth, SMIC is increasing its capital expenditure budget by 15 percent to ₱115 billion this year from the ₱100 billion it spent in 2024 to fund the expansion programs of its operating units.

During the meeting, the firm announced an increase in shareholder dividends to ₱13.00 per share for 2025, composed of ₱11.00 per share in regular dividends and ₱2.00 per share in special dividends – up 44 percent from ₱9.00 per share in 2024.

“The move underscores the company’s sustained focus on creating and returning value to its shareholders,” SMIC said. Shareholders on record as of May 16, 2025, will receive the dividends on May 29, 2025.

“This marks the fourth straight year of dividend increases. We remain committed to delivering returns for our shareholders while strengthening the long-termvalue of the company. We are grateful for their continued trust and confidence, which has been instrumental in driving our growth,” DyBuncio said.

Meanwhile, SM Investments shareholders elected Marife B. Zamora as an independent director of the Board during the company’s Annual Stockholders’ Meeting held today.

Zamora’s election ensures that SM Investments’ Board continues to maintain a majority of independent directors, exceeding regulatory standards and reinforcing SM’s commitment to good governance. She joins Atty. Lilly K. Gruba as the second female independent director.

“I’m truly honored to join SM’s Board. SM mirrors the energy and growth journey of the Philippine economy. I look forward to contributing to a growing company deeply committed to independence and strong corporate governance,” Zamora said.

A seasoned executive, she brings decades of leadership in telecommunications, insurance, and business process outsourcing.

She is also a known advocate for women in technology and leadership, serving on the Board of Trustees of the FTW (For The Women) Foundation and as Co-Founder of the Filipina CEO Circle, a network of women business leaders driving positive change.

Zamora succeeds Tomasa “Tammy” H. Lipana after the latter completed her maximum term as an independent director.

“The Board extends its deepest gratitude to Director Lipana for the nine years of dedicated service and invaluable insights she has provided to the company,” said Tetangco adding that, “We also welcome Ms. Zamora whose broad experience and strong track record will benefit the group.”