The SM Group has established a stronghold in Central Luzon’s Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone, featuring key developments such as SM City Clark, SM Offices, National University, SMX Convention Center and Park Inn by Radisson Clark.
These properties serve not just as commercial spaces but as vital economic and cultural hubs, reflecting Clark’s rapid evolution into a gateway to the north.
Community growth
As urbanization accelerates in Metro Manila, Clark emerges as a viable alternative, bolstered by strategic infrastructure enhancements, a thriving tourism sector and effective public-private partnerships.
“This region has steadily grown and is becoming a hub for growth,” said SM Supermalls president Steven Tan. “That’s why in recent years, we have supported that growth through our integrated properties to help spur economic activity for the benefit of communities where we operate.”
Since entering the Freeport in 2006, SM’s presence has significantly impacted local employment, contributing over 20 percent of the 138,000 jobs in Clark. SM Offices alone boasts over 22,000 jobs across its ten office towers, complemented by 5,000 tenants in SM City Clark.
Local development
The SM Group’s commitment to Clark is evident in its approach to community needs, enhancing access to quality education and promoting tourism and local heritage through integrated property development.
The impact of SM in terms of integrating economic activity and investments has been consistent. In 2023, SM City Clark emerged as one of the top five revenue generators, contributing 6 percent to CDC’s total revenues.
The complex’s strategic location near Clark International Airport, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and the upcoming North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) is expected to further enhance connectivity and access to northern regions.
Local talent
SM has created not just jobs but also opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Women’s accessories brand Malanne, founded by Jo-Ann Emperado-Macababat, began at SM City Clark with just ten earring designs and has since expanded to over 300 designs across multiple SM Supermalls.
Perfume brand Prescripto, established by Marnie Alcantara in 2006, evolved from a small stall to a thriving business with over 65 branches nationwide.
Expanding horizons
Looking to the future, SM’s integrated property in Clark is set to enhance connectivity with the construction of a multimodal transport terminal, which began in September 2023. This will significantly improve public access to and from Clark, especially with the forthcoming NSCR station linking to SM City Clark.
The terminal will connect various transport modes, including bus routes extending northward, and will be integrated with SM City Clark’s Sky Line, making it easily accessible within a five to 10-minute walk.
“By building a vibrant transport hub, SM aims to create a connection between Metro Manila and other cities in the northern region to promote local trade, tourism with Pampanga as a key destination,” said Tan.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. is also poised to expand its Clark portfolio, which includes the SMX Convention Center and Park Inn, with plans to introduce more hotels to the complex over the next five years.
Through its commitment to integrated development and community support, the SM Group continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Clark as a thriving hub for business, culture and lifestyle.
