Manila, Philippines — February 2026 — In today’s fast-evolving business landscape, having access to reliable and flexible event spaces is more than a convenience—it is a strategic advantage. SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) is responding to this need with the launch of three new SMX Trade Halls in Luzon, offering businesses, organizations, and communities the chance to host conferences, trade shows, and gatherings with unmatched ease and professionalism. For event organizers and attendees alike, these venues promise modern infrastructure, accessibility, and seamless integration with hospitality services, making every event both efficient and memorable.
Strategic Expansion Across Luzon
SMX Convention Center, the premier MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) provider in the Philippines, strengthens its regional presence with the opening of three new trade halls in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; Santo Tomas, Batangas; and Santa Rosa, Laguna. Collectively adding more than 13,000 square meters of leasable space, these developments significantly increase capacity for both corporate and community events, strategically positioning SMX as a hub for regional economic and professional engagement.
“With these new trade halls, we aim to make world-class event spaces accessible to more businesses and communities across Luzon,” said Walid Wafik, senior vice president of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation. “Our goal is to support the growing MICE potential in the Philippines by providing flexible, high-quality venues that can host a wide range of events efficiently and elegantly.”
The new venues are designed with adaptability in mind, featuring modern layouts that accommodate events of all scales, from intimate seminars to large-scale exhibitions. Their proximity to commercial hubs ensures convenience for attendees, while integrated retail and hotel services enhance the overall event experience.
Why This Matters
Attending or organizing an event at these new SMX Trade Halls means more than just reserving a space—it is an investment in a seamless, professional, and impactful experience. For business owners, it opens doors to networking, brand visibility, and industry collaboration. For attendees, it offers comfort, convenience, and engagement in venues built to deliver the best event experience. Simply put, these trade halls make attending, hosting, or showcasing at events easier, more productive, and enjoyable.
Industry Feedback and Outlook
Industry insiders have lauded SMX’s continued expansion. “The addition of these trade halls is a game-changer for regional events in Luzon,” said Cristina Reyes, an event manager based in Batangas. “Having venues of this scale and quality outside Metro Manila makes planning conferences, trade fairs, and community programs much more feasible and impactful.”
These expansions complement SMX’s growing portfolio, which already includes flagship venues such as SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu, soon to be the largest convention center in the Philippines, and SMXCITE (Center for International Trade and Exhibitions), envisioned as the country’s premier exhibition and trade hall venue. Collectively, SMHCC’s strategy reinforces the company’s commitment to shaping a nationwide ecosystem of world-class event venues that support tourism, industry collaboration, and economic growth.
Shaping the Future of Philippine MICE
By strategically positioning trade halls across Luzon, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation is redefining what it means to host and attend events in the Philippines. These venues represent not only a response to regional demand but also a long-term vision for a thriving, accessible, and dynamic MICE industry.
“The success of an event is defined by its setting, and our SMX Trade Halls are built to deliver excellence every time,” Wafik added. “We invite businesses and communities to experience spaces that inspire connection, collaboration, and growth.”
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