SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) is poised to redefine the country’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) landscape as it prepares to open the biggest convention center in the Philippines, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu. Strategically designed to attract international organizers, it is seen to compete with leading venues across Southeast Asia, including those in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia.

Prime location in Cebu’s South Road Properties

Located within Cebu’s fast-rising South Road Properties (SRP), the region’s most ambitious development corridor, the venue offers seamless connectivity to SM Seaside City Cebu via a link bridge, with direct access to SM Hotels’ uprising hotel properties: a dual-branded development that showcases both the Radisson and Park Inn by Radisson brands. It also stands adjacent to SM Arena Seaside Cebu. This enables event organizers to create a fully integrated event ecosystem in a single destination, where delegates can conveniently access convention facilities, large-scale entertainment venues, as well as a wide range of dining, retail, and leisure experiences within a compact and well-connected district.

A new benchmark: The Philippines’ largest convention center

Spanning a gross floor area of more than 40,000 sq.m. and offering 21,000 sq.m. of leasable space, the convention center is built for scale and flexibility. Its four expansive, column-free exhibition halls feature an impressive 10-meter vertical clearance and industry-grade floor loading capacity of 250 lbs. per sq.foot, ideal for large-scale trade shows, international exhibitions, and high-impact events. Complementing these are eight function rooms and 19 meeting rooms, designed to accommodate a wide range of corporate and social gatherings.

The venue is equipped with advanced technical infrastructure, including robust rigging load capacities, multiple freight and car lifts for efficient ingress and egress, and large roll-up doors for seamless event setup. A 10-meter-high pre-function lobby, executive VIP lounge, and 14 strategically located kitchens further enhance its ability to host simultaneous, large-scale events with premium service delivery.

Built with global standards in mind, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu offers full connectivity through Wi-Fi, LAN, and telecommunication systems, alongside comprehensive safety features such as CCTV monitoring, automated fire alarm systems, emergency power backup, and an on-site medical clinic. With 1,815 parking slots and a wide network of accredited caterers, contractors, and technical providers, the venue ensures a seamless end-to-end event experience.

Designed for everyone: Inclusive amenities

Beyond its scale and facilities, the center is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with provisions for persons with disabilities, all-gender restrooms, and convenient access to retail, dining, and commercial establishments within its perimeter.

Positioning the Philippines as a Global MICE destination

SM Hotels Senior Vice President for Operations Walid Wafik said, “With its contemporary architecture, expansive capabilities, and prime location, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is set to elevate the Philippines’ position in the global MICE industry. It also offers international organizers a compelling alternative to established convention destinations across Southeast Asia while providing the unique opportunity to complement business events with leisure experiences, allowing delegates to enjoy Cebu’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and local attractions alongside their professional engagements.”

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SMX Convention Center continues to reinforce its leadership in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry with the fourth-quarter 2026 openings of three new SMX Trade Halls in Luzon. Owned and managed by SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), these event spaces will strategically be located in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; Santo Tomas, Batangas; and Santa Rosa, Laguna.

Collectively, these new developments contribute more than 13,000 sq.m. of total leasable exhibition space, significantly increasing SMX’s capacity to host trade shows, corporate events, and large-scale community gatherings across key growth corridors in Luzon. The new trade halls are strategically positioned within thriving commercial hubs to serve regional demand while supporting national event expansion beyond Metro Manila.

The openings complement SMX’s broader portfolio growth, which includes landmark projects such as the SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu, which is poised to be the largest convention center in the Philippines, as well as SMXCITE (Center for International Trade and Exhibitions), envisioned as the largest exhibition and trade hall venue in the country. Together, these developments reinforce SMHCC’s commitment to building a nationwide ecosystem of world-class venues that enable economic activity, tourism, and industry collaboration.

“With the addition of these three trade halls, we are not only expanding our geographic reach but also creating more opportunities for businesses and communities to connect,” said SMHCC Senior Vice President Walid Wafik. “Our continued investments reflect our confidence in the Philippines’ growing MICE potential and our mission to deliver accessible, high-quality event spaces across the country,” Wafik added.

The new SMX Trade Halls are designed with flexible layouts, modern infrastructure, and seamless integration with adjacent retail and hospitality developments, providing clients with convenience and scalability for events of varying sizes. As SMX continues to expand with flagship venues in Cebu and Manila alongside regional trade halls nationwide, SMHCC demonstrates its position as a leading force in shaping the future of the Philippine MICE industry.

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SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation’s (SMHCC) SMX Convention Center cements its position as a top-of-mind brand in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry after earning two major regional distinctions at the recently concluded ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cebu, recognizing excellence in venue management and service standards.

SMX Convention Center was named Best ASEAN Convention Center at the ASEANTA Excellence Awards 2026, one of the region’s most respected platforms celebrating outstanding tourism and events destinations. This milestone marks the first time SMX Convention Center has received this prestigious honor, reinforcing its role as a premier MICE venue that drives business events, attracts international delegates, and contributes significantly to the growth and sustainability of the country’s tourism ecosystem.

Further solidifying its leadership in the exhibition sector, SMX Convention Center Manila and SMX Convention Center Clark were both recognized at the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards, winning the ASEAN MICE Venue in the Exhibition Venue Category. In 2024, SMX Convention Center Manila stood out as the sole property to receive recognition, marking a significant achievement for the convention center brand. Building on this momentum, the 2026 awards further reaffirm SMX’s growing leadership in the industry, with both SMX Convention Center Manila and SMX Convention Center Clark earning accolades—reflecting the continued expansion of hospitality distinction across SMX venues and highlighting their collective impact on the country’s MICE and tourism landscape.

“Being recognized by ASEAN bodies not only validates the hard work of our teams, but also strengthens the SMX brand as a preferred venue for regional and international events. With the opening of new SMX properties in 2026, we continue to expand our reach and offer world-class venues driving the continued development and global competitiveness of the country’s MICE sector.” said Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President-Operations of SMHCC.

As SMX Convention Center expands its footprint with new branches set to open within the year in Cebu, Cabanatuan, Sta. Rosa (Laguna), Sto. Tomas (Batangas), and Pasay, this strategic growth supports SMX’s long-term vision of bringing MICE infrastructure to more destinations, while continuing to elevate industry standards across the Philippines and the ASEAN region. With multiple award-winning venues, an expanding portfolio, and a strong commitment to service excellence, SMX Convention Center remains at the forefront of the MICE industry—driving business tourism growth and positioning the Philippines as a premier events destination in Southeast Asia.

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If you’re looking for an event space to celebrate a milestone, Polaris Ballroom ticks off many ideal items on your bucket list. Located at Station 1 of the scenic paradise island of Boracay, the grand, eye-catching venue has officially opened its doors to provide everything you need to craft extraordinary, memorable moments.

The Polaris Ballroom offers a refined and contemporary ambiance designed for grand and intimate gatherings and events. Its neutral and elegant 800-sq.m. space, complemented with an impressive 5.2-meter ceiling height, assures every guest of an open, airy, and spacious area without being overwhelming. Its soft, modern finishes and carefully positioned lighting create a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere, which is ideal for both corporate functions and social milestones.

What makes Polaris Ballroom distinct is the story and intention behind its design. Inspired by the North Star – long regarded as a symbol of guidance, clarity, and direction – Polaris Ballroom is more than just a venue, it is a destination for meaningful moments. Its distinct character lies in its balance of scale and sophistication: one of the largest ballrooms in Boracay yet designed with understated elegance and functionality at its core.

Upon entering the venue, the Welcome Center features extensive walkways to ensure a grand entrance for all guests. The state-of-the-art sound equipment won’t disappoint, providing crystal-clear sound for presentations and entertainment. The large LED wall display, measuring 13 meters x 3.8 meters, will undoubtedly draw the attention of guests with its stunning visuals.

Polaris Ballroom’s generous layout provides creative freedom to style the space to your liking while also offering a heartfelt atmosphere that is ideal for sharing a meaningful occasion with those who matter most.

For seminars and conferences, the ballroom can be transformed into a Theater setting where participants and guests can witness the proceedings on stage through a visual display.

The Classroom setup is ideal for events that require every guest to have a table for their paperwork and reading materials.

The Banquet style, on the other hand, can accommodate up to 450 guests. It has two seating formats on stage, suitable for grand forums and conferences.

Combined with modern amenities, flexible layouts, and the trusted service of Four Points by Sheraton Boracay, Polaris Ballroom becomes a space where events are guided with purpose, executed seamlessly, and remembered long after they ended.

The Polaris Ballroom offers exclusive privileges for bookings and reservations from January to June. Take advantage of the 5-percent discount on venue rental fees; P70,000 LED Wall integration; five complimentary lunch/dinner packages for every 100 paid attendees (maximum of 25 complimentary); five complimentary Day Delegate packages; and a VIP Welcome Reception upgrade.

Included in the packages are amenities such as flipcharts, cocktail tables, banquet tables, chairs, complimentary Wi-Fi, wireless microphones, built-in speakers, portable screen and projector, and podium.

A selection of culinary delights can be availed according to the client’s preference, with dedicated staff ready to assist guests during the event.

For inquiries and bookings, please call (+63) 962-6904063 or email the sales and events team at angelo.espiritu@fourpoints.com. You can also check the Polaris Ballroom on Facebook.

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The Philippines’ biggest SMX Convention Center is set to open in Cebu in Q3 2026. 

Located at the Cebu South Coastal Road, the Php3.3 billion landmark project of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) will offer over 21,000 sq.m. of leasable event space setting a new benchmark for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities in the country.

With scalable halls, professional support services, and world-class amenities, the venue will provide organizers the capacity, flexibility, and convenience needed to mount world-class events up to 18,000 delegates.

“Cebu has always been one of the most in-demand destinations for events, and we are proud to finally bring SMX’s trusted brand of service to this dynamic market. It’s the culmination of more than two decades of experience in delivering professional and high-impact events,” said Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President-Operations of SMHCC.

Internationally recognized as the premier convention center in the Philippines, SMX has earned a reputation for delivering professionally managed spaces tailored to the diverse needs of large-scale exhibitions, conferences, corporate events, and celebrations.

The SMX Convention Center will rise beside the SM Seaside City Cebu offering direct connectivity to major lifestyle, retail, and hospitality hubs, as well as convenient access to key infrastructure such as the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

It will form part of a carefully master-planned development that includes a 300-room Park Inn Hotel, a 200-room Radisson Hotel and the 16,000-seating capacity SM Seaside Arena, reinforcing Cebu as a complete, integrated MICE and entertainment destination.

“This is our response to the long-standing demand for a convention venue of this scale in Cebu.  Soon, Cebuanos and visiting delegates alike will no longer need to fly to Manila for major exhibitions, summits, or concerts—the experience will be right here,” adds Wafik.

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