Who’s SMXCITE? Philippines unveils new mega convention venue

SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) is building what is expected to be the largest convention and events hub in the Philippines – the SMX Center for International Trade and Exhibitions (SMXCITE). Designed as a world-class venue, SMXCITE will expand the existing SMX Convention Center in Pasay City and significantly boost the country’s MICE infrastructure.

Located directly across from the 18,000-seat SM Mall of Asia Arena, the 10-hectare development by SM and the Sy family’s Prime Holdings, Inc. is expected to be completed within three years in early 2027.

“SMXCITE marks a pivotal step in our continued efforts to build future-ready venues that meet global standards,” said Walid Wafik, SMHCC’s Senior Vice President for Operations.

A convention centre for the future

When completed, SMXCITE will add over 18,000 sqm of leasable space, effectively doubling SMX Convention Center’s current capacity of 35,000sqm. With this expansion, SMXCITE will become a versatile, high-capacity events venue capable of hosting 35,000 attendees in a theatre setup, all within an integrated, accessible complex.

“Our ambition is not only to sustain SMX’s leadership in the Philippine market but to position SMXCITE as a competitive option for regional expositions in Southeast Asia,” said Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SMHCC.

SMXCITE is targeted at capturing international and local large-scale, high-impact expositions that draw both international and national audiences across sectors such as construction, furniture, defense, automobiles, food, gaming, sustainability, and tech.

The venue is being designed with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind, incorporating natural lighting and green design principles already adopted by SMX Manila. Key features include four exhibition halls that can accommodate up to 803 standard 3x3-metre booths, five function rooms, and 14 meeting rooms across 21,400 sqm of leasable space for various types of events, and two dedicated VIP lounges. It will boast bridgeways that directly connect to SM Mall of Asia's south parking building and to Conrad Manila.

What’s next for SMX venues across the Philippines?

With SMXCITE’s addition, SMXCC’s convention and exhibition footprint will reach an estimated 60,000 sqm across cities such as Manila, Taguig, Mandaluyong, Clark, Olongapo, Bacolod, Cebu and Davao.

“With the Philippine economy maintaining strong growth momentum this year — and tourism showing sustained recovery, we are confident that the Philippines is poised to become a major player in the Asia-Pacific MICE industry,” said Angeles.

While no major refurbishments are currently planned for existing venues, SMX Clark is scheduled for expansion, and a new SMX Cabanatuan location is in the works to meet growing demand in Central Luzon.

Angeles identified Clark, Davao, and Cebu as fast-emerging MICE hotspots due to infrastructure development and government backing.

“Clark is emerging as a major MICE hub, thanks to the strong support and initiatives of the national and local government to develop the area. Its potential was further highlighted when it hosted the Department of Tourism’s MICECON,” she said.

“Davao and Cebu are also experiencing robust growth, driven by rapid urbanization and increased investments in tourism and business infrastructure. Additionally, Cabanatuan is an area we are watching closely; it shows promising signs of becoming a key destination for future trade show and exhibitions.”