SMX Convention Center, the country’s premier and largest convention center operator, has secured a spot on Kalibrr’s prestigious list of the Top 50 Employers in the Philippines for 2025. This recognition marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey and reaffirms its dedication to elevating workplace standards in the events and hospitality industry.
This honor highlights SMX Convention Center’s ongoing efforts to nurture a people-centric culture—one that prioritizes professional development, collaborative teamwork, and consistent excellence in service. As a key player under the umbrella of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), SMX shares and upholds the values deeply rooted in the group’s mission. The organization embraces a “people-first ethos,” which places a strong emphasis on cultivating leadership that is driven by purpose, as well as creating an environment where talent is nurtured and empowered to grow.
A core component of this commitment lies in SMX’s internal service philosophy known as “We Go Beyond.” This guiding principle serves as a daily reminder for employees to exceed expectations not only for clients, but also for their colleagues. The “We Go Beyond” mindset promotes initiative, compassion, and cooperation—key traits that have become ingrained in the culture of SMX and are evident in every interaction across their venues.
The Top 50 Employers list by Kalibrr is recognized across Southeast Asia for its credibility and rigorous selection process. Kalibrr, a leading recruitment platform in the region, compiles this list annually by leveraging comprehensive research that draws from multiple sources. These include job seeker feedback, the perspectives of seasoned HR professionals, and data from reputable third-party sources. The final selections are further shaped by insights gathered from the platform’s millions of users, ensuring that companies selected for the list are those that genuinely foster outstanding employee experiences and cultivate thriving work environments.
A Culture Built on Purpose and People
SMX Convention Center currently operates over 38,000 square meters of leasable event space across its branches nationwide. But the company is quick to point out that while the scale of its venues is impressive, it is the team behind these operations that truly defines the SMX experience.
“This recognition is meaningful to us,” said Michael Albaña, Vice President and General Manager of SMX Convention Center. “While we know there is always room to grow, it affirms our shared efforts in creating a culture where people can thrive and do meaningful work. I’d like to thank our committed HR team and our parent company, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., for setting the groundwork for the company culture we continue to build today.”
For SMX, culture is not a static concept—it is a dynamic and continuous endeavor. The leadership team recognizes that building a supportive workplace requires constant nurturing and active participation from everyone in the organization. From the executive team to the operational staff, each person plays a role in shaping a work environment that encourages learning, growth, and belonging.
Looking Forward
With future developments on the horizon, SMX Convention Center remains focused on creating more opportunities for both its clients and its people. The organization is preparing to open new properties and continues to invest in its workforce to ensure that its service standards remain industry-leading. At the heart of this forward-looking strategy is the belief that an empowered and inspired workforce is essential to long-term success.
Being named one of Kalibrr’s Top 50 Employers for 2025 is more than just a title for SMX—it is a validation of the work being done behind the scenes to build a better workplace. It is also a reminder of the responsibility that comes with being a recognized leader in employee engagement within the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.
“We’re a work in progress—but we’re moving forward with purpose and heart,” Albaña added. “Being named one of Kalibrr’s Top 50 Employers is a reminder that progress happens when people work together toward something bigger than themselves.”
This latest achievement reinforces SMX Convention Center’s reputation not only as a top-tier venue for events but also as a company that truly values and uplifts the people who help make those events possible.
