SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) proudly announces that SMX Convention Center has once again been recognized as the Best Convention & Exhibition Centre – Philippines at the South East Asia Business Awards 2025, presented by APAC Insider. As the largest privately owned convention center operator in the Philippines, this recognition affirms SMX Convention Center’s standing as the country’s leading platform for business, trade, expositions, conferences, and lifestyle events. The center is known as a place “where ideas meet scale, and experiences are brought to life.”
The South East Asia Business Awards honor companies that demonstrate exceptional business performance, service excellence, and innovation within the region. After a meticulous, merit-based evaluation conducted by esteemed panelists, SMX Convention Center stood out among numerous contenders. The center was recognized for its expansive nationwide presence, strong sustainability initiatives, and consistent commitment to service quality. This marks the second consecutive year that SMX has received this prestigious recognition, having also won the award in 2024.
“This award is a proud moment for all of us at SMX. It reflects the collaborative spirit and excellence that our team brings to every event, every venue, and every guest experience,” said Michael Jaey Albaña, Vice President and General Manager of SMX Convention Center. “This is more than a recognition of our infrastructure—it is a recognition of the people, the culture of service, and the bold vision that drives SMX forward as a catalyst for economic and event industry growth.”
A Growing Network of Premier Venues Across the Philippines
Since opening its doors in 2007, SMX Convention Center has grown into a network of premier venues strategically located throughout the Philippines. These venues serve as hubs for international conferences, trade expos, consumer fairs, corporate meetings, and milestone events. Their presence allows various industries and organizations to hold events with professional standards, advanced facilities, and reliable support.
SMX Convention Center continues to actively expand its reach to meet the growing demand for professional event spaces across the country. One of the most anticipated projects is the opening of SMX Convention Center Seaside City Cebu, scheduled for 2026. This new venue will be the largest SMX property to date, offering over 21,000 square meters of leasable space. With this addition, SMX aims to further strengthen its foothold in the Visayas region and provide a world-class destination for events and conventions.
In addition to the Cebu expansion, SMX Convention Center is accelerating its nationwide growth through a strategic pipeline of new venues. This expansion strategy aligns with the company’s goal to offer accessible and well-equipped venues in key cities, supporting the increasing activities of trade, business, and cultural events throughout the Philippines.
Powering the MICE Industry in Southeast Asia
As a brand under SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, SMX Convention Center plays a vital role in driving the growth of the Philippine Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. The company’s focus on service excellence, innovation, and destination development contributes significantly to elevating the country’s position as a premier host for global events.
Through its robust network of venues, SMX supports the hosting of diverse events, ranging from large-scale international conferences to corporate meetings and consumer trade fairs. Its ability to provide versatile spaces, modern technology, and excellent customer service makes it a preferred partner for event organizers. This strong positioning allows the Philippines to serve as a gateway to Southeast Asia’s thriving business landscape, attracting more international delegations and investment opportunities.
SMX Convention Center was also nominated at the World MICE Awards 2025, a global program honoring excellence in the MICE industry. The nomination recognizes the center’s continued leadership and outstanding service in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions sector. Voting for the award is open until 19 September 2025. Supporters and clients are encouraged to cast their votes at https://worldmiceawards.com/award/philippines-best-convention-centre/2025 to help SMX secure a fifth consecutive win.
