SM optimistic on Philippines market despite risks, uncertainties

MANILA, Philippines — SM Group remains optimistic and committed to investing in the Philippines despite challenges being faced by the country.

Hans Sy, chair of the executive committee of SM Prime Holdings Inc., who received the Management Association of the Philippines’ (MAP) Management Person of the Year 2025 Award yesterday, said the group is choosing to continue to invest in the country even if there are difficulties.

“Despite the weak sentiment and perceived risks, the SM Group continues to invest and believe in the Philippines,” Sy said in his acceptance speech.

He said like everyone else, he is affected by recent events in the country.

While the country is facing challenges, he said now is not the time for the private sector to stop and turn back.

He said he and his family have chosen to stay in the Philippines because of their faith in the country.

“I am 70 years old now. And I still hold only one passport, a Philippine passport. That is both a fact and a statement of faith,” he said.

“Despite the risks, the noise and the many uncertainties, I have never doubted our country’s promise or the strength of the Filipino spirit,” he added.

According to Sy, the private sector has a responsibility to create value, opportunity and stability.

For Sy, that duty does not disappear when times are difficult, but becomes even more important.

“Nation-building is hard work. But if we do what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular, we can build a future where Filipinos live with dignity and hope,” he said.

He said SM was also built on hardship and hope, growing from a single shoe store in downtown Manila to an ecosystem including various businesses including real estate, banks, retail and schools.

While the group was tested by political unrest, economic challenges and natural disasters, it  has come out stronger because it learned, adapted and decided to aim bigger.

Sy said the award conferred by MAP is both an honor and a responsibility, as well as a reminder that he can do more for the country.

As such, he said he would devote more time and resources to help strengthen the Philippines particularly on education, resilience, community building and a better future.

On education, he said the plan is to continue expanding access to affordable and quality learning.

“Our goal is to reach 100,000 students by 2027, by opening more campuses and offering more courses,” he said.

Through ARISE (the Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies) Philippines, he plans to continue working with local government units to strengthen disaster preparedness and climate adaptation.

In terms of community building, he said the SM Group would support those affected by disasters.

He revealed that the group would be building a church for SM Cares Village, following damage caused by the Cebu earthquake.

For the future, he said the company would keep investing in developments that support the Filipinos’ needs: smart cities, sustainable communities, modern infrastructure and green spaces that promote progress, inclusivity and well-being.