The SM Group (stock: SM) is reinforcing its presence in the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone with a substantial ₱2 billion investment. This major initiative is focused on improving connectivity, boosting economic growth, and contributing to the development of Central Luzon.
At the heart of this expansion is the construction of a state-of-the-art multimodal transport terminal, spearheaded by Premiere Clark Complex, Inc. (a subsidiary of SM Prime Holdings - stock: SMPH). This terminal is expected to significantly ease public transportation access to and from Clark, a move seen as crucial given the upcoming North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) station.
The investment doesn’t stop at transport infrastructure. SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. is also expanding its portfolio in the region, with plans to add more hotels to the Park Inn complex. SM's integrated developments in Clark—SM City Clark, SM Offices, National University, SMX Convention Center, and Park Inn by Radisson Clark—continue to serve as cultural and economic hubs. These properties are vital to Clark’s evolution into a gateway destination, promoting local trade, tourism, and overall growth.
Clark Freeport is becoming a key player in Central Luzon’s urban and economic transformation, offering an alternative to the congestion of Metro Manila. The Clark International Airport, Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and the upcoming NSCR enhance Clark’s strategic positioning, making it an accessible and attractive destination for both business and tourism.
The ongoing development of the multimodal transport terminal will provide seamless connections for commuters, integrating bus routes and train lines. Notably, the terminal will link directly to SM City Clark’s Sky Line, making it easily accessible with a short five- to ten-minute walk.
Since entering Clark Freeport in 2006, SM Group has become a critical player in the region’s employment landscape. SM properties contribute over 20% of the 138,000 jobs in Clark, with SM Offices supporting 22,000 jobs across 10 office towers and SM City Clark providing employment for 5,000 mall tenants.
SM’s influence extends beyond direct job creation. The company has fostered entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for local businesses. For example, Malanne, a women’s accessories brand, started small with just 10 earring designs in SM City Clark but has now grown to offer over 300 designs across multiple SM Supermalls. Similarly, Prescripto, a perfume brand launched in 2006, expanded from a single stall to over 65 branches nationwide.
The SM Group's continued investment reflects its commitment to community development. The company has integrated education, tourism, and cultural promotion into its property development strategy. National University, for instance, provides quality education opportunities in the region, while the SMX Convention Center and Park Inn by Radisson Clark help attract business conferences and tourists, further boosting the local economy.
In 2023, SM City Clark ranked among the top five revenue generators, contributing 6% to the Clark Development Corporation’s (CDC) total revenues. As Clark's infrastructure continues to improve, including the completion of the NSCR, SM's properties are poised to play an even greater role in the region’s economic and cultural landscape.
With its comprehensive expansion plan, SM Group is positioning itself to further strengthen its role in the development of Clark Freeport. The company’s long-term vision is to create a vibrant and connected region, where economic activity, employment, and tourism can thrive.
In the next five years, SM Group plans to introduce more hotels in Clark, enhancing its capacity to cater to the growing demand for accommodations as tourism in the area expands. By aligning its developments with the region’s infrastructure upgrades, SM Group continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Clark Freeport into a premier business and lifestyle hub.