SM Investments Corporation is growing its entertainment ecosystem to capture the rising demand for experiences among younger Filipinos.
Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and CEO of SM Investments, said the company is broadening entertainment offerings to strengthen customer engagement and long-term value.
The group’s investments span malls, arenas, convention centers, banking, and even logistics. SMIC SG Holdings was the first Philippine firm to invest in Klook, the Asia-based travel and experiences platform. On 2GO vessels, karaoke lounges and video arcades offer entertainment at sea. BDO and China Bank integrate lifestyle and travel rewards into customer programs.
The Philippine creative economy reached ₱1.94 trillion in 2024, growing by 8.7 percent. SM aims to tap this momentum by creating next-generation entertainment hubs.
Joaquin L. San Agustin of SM Supermalls said younger consumers want inclusivity, community, and interactive experiences. SM malls now host fandoms, gaming events, and food communities.
MOA Arena continues to attract global acts and will be joined by a new Cebu arena. SMX Convention Center has seen surging bookings for fan meets, pop culture expos, and gaming events since late 2023.
Mike Albaña of SMX said weekday events now draw larger audiences, showing people prioritize entertainment spending.
For SM, entertainment drives traffic across businesses and builds shared spaces like the FIFA-grade football pitch at SM MOA Sky. Arnel C. Gonzales of MOA Arena said SM acts as an enabler, bringing global content and experiences closer to communities.
With scale, integration, and focus on customers, SM positions itself as a leading player in the Philippines’ experience economy.
