In an increasingly competitive tourism and business-events landscape, the quality of convention venues plays a decisive role in how countries attract investments, international delegates, and large-scale opportunities. For businesses, creatives, and communities alike, world-class event spaces translate into economic growth, global visibility, and elevated experiences. This context makes the recent recognition of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) at the ASEAN Tourism Forum particularly significant—not only for the industry, but for the Philippines’ standing as a leading meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) destination in Southeast Asia. The pursuit of Philippines MICE excellence is at the forefront of these developments.
The company’s flagship convention brand reinforced its position as a top-of-mind player in the regional MICE sector after securing multiple accolades at the forum held in Cebu, underscoring a sustained commitment to operational excellence, service quality, and venue innovation that raises the bar for Philippines MICE excellence in the region.
Regional Recognition for MICE Excellence
Central to this milestone was the distinction as Best ASEAN Convention Centre at the ASEANTA Excellence Awards 2026, one of the region’s most respected platforms recognizing outstanding tourism and events facilities. The honor—received for the first time—places the Philippine-based venue among ASEAN’s most trusted convention destinations.
Industry observers note that such recognition extends beyond physical infrastructure. It reflects an organization’s ability to meet evolving global standards and deliver seamless large-scale events. “ASEAN-level awards send a strong signal to international organizers that a destination can perform at a consistently high level,” said an events industry consultant familiar with regional trade exhibitions. “This achievement strengthens the Philippines’ credibility within the global MICE circuit and showcases Philippines MICE excellence to international audiences.”
Further reinforcing this leadership, the Manila and Clark properties under the brand were also cited at the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards, receiving the ASEAN MICE Venue Award in the Exhibition Venue category. Manila’s recognition follows its distinction as the country’s sole awardee in 2024, with the 2026 honors highlighting sustained excellence across multiple locations.
Strengthening the Business Tourism Ecosystem
Beyond the accolades, these recognitions underscore the brand’s broader contribution to the country’s tourism and business landscape. By hosting international conventions, exhibitions, and trade events, its venues help generate employment, stimulate local economies, and encourage repeat visitation to Philippine cities. In turn, these efforts further cement the reputation of Philippines MICE excellence within Southeast Asia.
“Recognition from ASEAN bodies validates the dedication of our teams while reinforcing our position as a preferred venue for regional and international events,” said Walid Wafik, senior vice president for operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. “As new properties open in 2026, we are expanding access to world-class facilities that support the continued growth and global competitiveness of the country’s MICE sector.”
Event organizers echo this sentiment, frequently citing reliability as a key differentiator. “Consistency is what stands out,” shared a regional trade show director who recently mounted a multiday exhibition in Manila. “From technical support to crowd management and on-ground coordination, the experience meets international expectations—essential when hosting delegates from multiple countries.”
Expanding Reach, Raising Standards
Looking ahead, the group is set to broaden its footprint with new venues scheduled to open in Cebu, Cabanatuan, Sta. Rosa (Laguna), Sto. Tomas (Batangas), and Pasay within the year. This expansion reflects a long-term strategy to decentralize MICE infrastructure, bringing international-standard convention facilities closer to emerging business hubs and regional destinations.
For local governments and enterprises, this growth translates into greater access to professional event spaces beyond Metro Manila. “When convention infrastructure extends into regional centers, it supports more inclusive tourism and distributes economic benefits more evenly,” noted a tourism analyst.
A Benchmark for Philippine MICE Excellence
With an expanding portfolio, multiple award-winning properties, and a strong emphasis on service excellence, the brand continues to set benchmarks for the Philippine MICE industry. Its recent ASEAN honors affirm leadership at a regional level while reinforcing the country’s growing reputation as a premier destination for business events in Southeast Asia. Without a doubt, these successes contribute to Philippines MICE excellence and set an inspiring example for other venues.
As global demand rises for flexible, high-quality, and professionally managed venues, these achievements signal a future in which Philippine-hosted events compete confidently on both regional and international stages.
About the Convention Brand
The company operates the country’s premier venues for meetings and exhibitions, offering more than 42,000 square meters of leasable space nationwide. Its portfolio includes properties in Manila, Aura, Bacolod, Davao, Clark, Olongapo, and Cebu, alongside major trade halls. More information is available at its official website: www.smxconventioncenter.com.
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