SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.’s (SMHCC) SMX Convention Center strengthens its reputation as a top-of-mind brand in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry after securing two major regional distinctions at the recently concluded ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cebu. The recognition highlights excellence in venue management and service standards, further positioning SMX Convention Center as a key player in business events and tourism development in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia.
SMX Convention Center Earns Prestigious ASEAN Recognition
SMX Convention Center was named Best ASEAN Convention Centre 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.
The recognition highlights SMX Convention Center’s continued commitment to providing world-class facilities and services that meet international standards. By consistently delivering quality venue management and event services, SMX has strengthened its position as a trusted destination for large-scale conventions, corporate gatherings, and exhibitions. The award also reflects the growing confidence of both regional and international stakeholders in the capabilities of SMX Convention Center as a venue for high-impact events.
SMX Manila and Clark Strengthen Exhibition Venue Leadership
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. The recognition reflects the continued expansion of hospitality distinction across SMX venues and highlights their collective impact on the country’s MICE and tourism landscape. These achievements demonstrate SMX Convention Center’s ability to maintain consistent service quality across multiple locations while strengthening its national and regional presence.
The recognition also underscores the importance of exhibition venues in supporting business tourism and trade opportunities. By hosting major exhibitions and industry events, SMX Convention Center contributes to economic activity, industry networking, and destination marketing, all of which support the broader tourism and business events ecosystem in the Philippines.
“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 Mr. Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President – Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.
Expansion Plans Support Long-Term MICE Industry Growth
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. The expansion aligns with the organization’s goal of strengthening accessibility to high-quality event venues while supporting regional tourism development.
The addition of new SMX Convention Center branches reflects the company’s commitment to addressing the increasing demand for professional event spaces across various regions in the Philippines. By establishing venues in emerging destinations, SMX aims to create more opportunities for business events, corporate gatherings, exhibitions, and conventions that contribute to local economic growth and tourism activity.
With multiple award-winning venues, an expanding portfolio, and a strong commitment to service excellence, SMX Convention Center continues to lead the MICE industry. Its sustained achievements reinforce its role in driving business tourism growth and strengthening the Philippines’ position as a premier events destination in Southeast Asia.
Through consistent recognition from respected ASEAN tourism and events organizations, SMX Convention Center demonstrates its ability to deliver high-quality venue management, elevate service standards, and support the evolving needs of the MICE sector. As the brand continues to grow its network of convention centers nationwide, SMX remains focused on enhancing the overall events experience for organizers, delegates, and industry stakeholders while contributing to the long-term sustainability of the region’s tourism and business events industries.
