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SM Hotels Champions Circular Economy Innovation through Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s Biodiesel Initiative

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), the owning and managing company of Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod, continues to advance its sustainability agenda as the property strengthens its circular economy initiatives through expanded partnerships and community-driven programs.

At a time when global fuel volatility continues to challenge local industries, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod stands at the forefront of sustainable hospitality. What began in 2024 as a localized waste-to-energy initiative has since evolved into a compelling model of how public-private collaboration can deliver meaningful socio-economic impact.

At the heart of this effort is the hotel’s flagship Biodiesel Project, which converts used cooking oil (UCO) into high-grade fuel. In its latest milestone, the property, in collaboration with the Congressional Office of Representative Albee Benitez, donated 200 liters of biodiesel to residents of Brgy. Singcang.

Launching of the Bio-diesel project led by Cong. Albee Benitez (center). Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod as a private sector partner, represented by (2nd and 3rd from the left) Mr. Reljun Oloroso, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s Director of People & Culture and Sustainability Champion, and Myka Ella Pahilanga, Cluster Marketing and Communications Manager together with the city officials of Bacolod, Vice Mayor Kalaw Puentevella and City Mayor Greg Gasataya.

 

This recent turnover brings the hotel’s total contribution to 2,600 liters of donated fuel since the project’s inception. Based on average production yields, this volume is estimated to support approximately 16 tons of collective catch for local fisherfolk that provides a vital energy source for livelihoods while helping communities navigate ongoing fuel challenges.

The initiative is supported by a technical partnership with Green Solutions, led by CEO Engr. Ian Fred Solas, who ensures that collected UCO is efficiently converted into clean-burning biodiesel rather than contributing to environmental waste. This process not only reduces pollution but also reinforces a closed-loop system within the hotel’s operations.

“Sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity, especially as we navigate the complexities of the global fuel market,” shared Reljun Oloroso, Director of People & Culture and sustainability champion of Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod. “This project demonstrates that through strong partnerships with government and technical experts, we can transform waste into a valuable resource that benefits both communities and the environment.”

Reinforcing Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s broader commitment to responsible tourism, the Bacolod City Government has invited the hotel to showcase its circular economy programs at this year’s Panaad sa Negros Festival. The initiatives are currently featured at the Bacolod LGU Pavilion, highlighting eco-friendly practices, repurposed materials, and innovative waste management solutions.

Park Inn by Radisson Circular Economy corner at Panaad sang Negros Festival in collaboration with Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO).

 

Festival visitors can explore the hotel’s sustainability ecosystem, which includes:

  • The Biodiesel Project: A model for waste-to-energy conversion and cross-sector collaboration
  • Tela Tales: A three-year upcycling initiative that transforms retired hotel linens into new products, providing livelihood opportunities for 15 volunteers in Brgy. Felisa
  • Bokashi Method: A four-year program that converts organic waste into compost in partnership with the Negros Economic Development Foundation (NEDF). Through a closed-loop system, the hotel supports 55 farmers and has processed over 100,000 kilos of food waste into fertilizer

As the only hotel in Negros currently holding the Hotel Sustainability Basics certification, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod exemplifies SMHCC’s vision of integrating sustainability into core operations.

“At SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, we see sustainability as a shared responsibility that extends beyond our properties and into the communities we serve,” said Leah Magallanes, Vice President for Quality and Sustainability at SMHCC. “Initiatives like the Biodiesel Project demonstrate how circular economy practices can create tangible impact, turning everyday operations into opportunities for environmental stewardship and inclusive growth.”

Through these efforts, SMHCC continues to champion a greener, more resilient hospitality industry, where innovation, community engagement, and sustainability go hand in hand.

#BiodieselProject #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Lifestyle Influencer Kister Morata Named Newest Brand Ambassador for Hailey’s Body Essentials

From pandemic-born content creator to lifestyle authority, Kister Morata’s journey reaches a new milestone as he officially joins Hailey’s Body Essentials as its newest brand ambassador. Known for his authentic and vibrant travel content, Kister Morata is the face of a new campaign highlighting the brand’s commitment to freshness for the active Filipino.

As ambassador, Kister Morata will showcase Hailey’s Underarm and Foot Powder, a Filipino-made hygiene solution designed for all-day protection—whether navigating the bustle of Manila or exploring global destinations.

“As someone who is always on the move—from attending events to exploring new travel destinations—I need a grooming routine that can keep up. Hailey’s Underarm and Foot Powder is my secret to staying fresh and confident all day. It’s natural, effective, and truly made for the active Filipino lifestyle,” Kister Morata shared.

Natural, Effective, and Filipino-Made

Launched last year, the Underarm and Foot Powder has quickly become a staple for health-conscious consumers. Its key features include:

  • Natural Formulation: Primarily composed of micronized alum (tawas), acting as a powerful natural astringent and antibacterial agent.
  • Safe for Skin: The formula is hypoallergenic and silica-free, ensuring it doesn’t clog pores like traditional antiperspirants.
  • Multi-use Protection: Specifically designed to eliminate moisture and odor for both underarms and feet.
Kister Morata.

“I’ve always believed in sharing products that I actually use and trust. Hailey’s Underarm and Foot Powder is a game-changer because it’s hypoallergenic and provides that long-lasting dry comfort we all need in this tropical heat. It’s not just a brand I represent; it’s a daily essential I swear by,” Kister Morata added.

Availability

In line with Kister Morata’s support for local craftsmanship, Hailey’s continues to expand its retail footprint. The product line is available at major retailers, including:

  • Physical Stores: Mercury Drug, Southstar Drug, and The Generics Pharmacy.
  • Online Platforms: The official Rhodesian store on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

Follow the Journey:

For updates, follow Kister Morata on Facebook and Instagram (@kistermorata). Stay connected with Hailey’s Tawas on Facebook and @haileysofficial_ on Instagram.

#HaileysBodyEssentials #KisterMorata #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SMX Convention Center Clark Sustains Winning Streak at the DOT Region 3 TRES Awards

Clark, Pampanga — SMX Convention Center Clark, a premiere convention center under the SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) portfolio, emerged as a top awardee at the Tourism Recognition for Enterprises and Stakeholders (TRES) Awards 2025 organized by the Department of Tourism Region 3.

SMX Clark was recognized as the Grand Winner of the Tourism Quality Awards for MICE Event Venue and MICE Meeting Room, strengthening its role as a standard for quality in the MICE industry. In addition, it received a Special Citation for MICE Exhibition Venue, further enhancing its reputation as a preferred venue for large-scale gatherings in the region.

The SMX Convention Center Clark team proudly holds their trophies in the property’s lobby, celebrating a defining moment for the venue.

The TRES Awards celebrate outstanding enterprises and stakeholders that elevate the standards of tourism and hospitality in Central Luzon. This latest recognition marks the third consecutive year that SMX Convention Center Clark has been honored by the Department of Tourism Region 3, highlighting its sustained excellence and consistent delivery of high-quality event experiences. Over the years since its opening in 2022, the venue has continued to set benchmarks in service, facilities, and event execution, earning the trust of both local and international organizers.

“As Central Luzon strengthens its position as a key hub for business events, SMX Convention Center Clark stands at the forefront, committed to providing world-class spaces and curated experiences that fuel progress and foster purposeful connections,” said Walid Wafik, SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation Senior Vice President for Operations. “Further developing its regional presence, SMX is gearing up to launch SMX Trade Hall Cabanatuan in the fourth quarter of 2026, introducing a new venue to its expanding Central Luzon network alongside its established sites in Clark and Olongapo, while increasing its capability to stage more high-impact, large-scale events across the region,” Mr. Wafik added.

#SMXConventionCenterClark #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments

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Setting a New Standard: SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu Brings World-class MICE to Cebu

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) is poised to redefine the country’s MICE landscape as it prepares to open the biggest convention center in the Philippines, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu. Strategically designed to attract international organizers, it is seen to compete with leading venues across Southeast Asia, including those in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia.

Prime Location in Cebu’s South Road Properties

Located within Cebu’s fast-rising South Road Properties (SRP), the region’s most ambitious development corridor, the venue offers seamless connectivity to SM Seaside City Cebu via a link bridge, with direct access to SM Hotels’ uprising hotel properties: a dual-branded development that showcases both the Radisson and Park Inn by Radisson brands. It also stands adjacent to SM Arena Seaside Cebu. This enables event organizers to create a fully integrated event ecosystem in a single destination, where delegates can conveniently access convention facilities, large-scale entertainment venues, as well as a wide range of dining, retail, and leisure experiences within a compact and well-connected district.

A New Benchmark: The Philippines’ Largest Convention Center

Spanning a gross floor area of more than 40,000 square meters and offering 21,000 square meters of leasable space, the convention center is built for scale and flexibility. Its four expansive, column-free exhibition halls feature an impressive 10-meter vertical clearance and industry-grade floor loading capacity of 250 lbs per square foot, ideal for large-scale trade shows, international exhibitions, and high-impact events. Complementing these are eight function rooms and nineteen meeting rooms, designed to accommodate a wide range of corporate and social gatherings.

The venue is equipped with advanced technical infrastructure, including robust rigging load capacities, multiple freight and car lifts for efficient ingress and egress, and large roll-up doors for seamless event setup. A 10-meter-high pre-function lobby, executive VIP lounge, and fourteen strategically located kitchens further enhance its ability to host simultaneous, large-scale events with premium service delivery.

Built with global standards in mind, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu offers full connectivity through Wi-Fi, LAN, and telecommunication systems, alongside comprehensive safety features such as CCTV monitoring, automated fire alarm systems, emergency power backup, and an on-site medical clinic. With 1,815 parking slots and a wide network of accredited caterers, contractors, and technical providers, the venue ensures a seamless end-to-end event experience.

Designed for Everyone: Inclusive Amenities

Beyond its scale and facilities, the center is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with provisions for persons with disabilities, all-gender restrooms, and convenient access to retail, dining, and commercial establishments within its perimeter.

Positioning the Philippines as a Global MICE Destination

SM Hotels Senior Vice President for Operations Walid Wafik said, “With its contemporary architecture, expansive capabilities, and prime location, SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu is set to elevate the Philippines’ position in the global MICE industry. It also offers international organizers a compelling alternative to established convention destinations across Southeast Asia while providing the unique opportunity to complement business events with leisure experiences, allowing delegates to enjoy Cebu’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and local attractions alongside their professional engagements.”

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/

#SMXConventionCenterSeasideCebu #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments

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SM Hotels Boosts Events Portfolio with Three New SMX Trade Halls in Luzon

SMX Convention Center continues to reinforce its leadership in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry with the fourth-quarter 2026 openings of three new SMX Trade Halls in Luzon. Owned and managed by SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), these event spaces will strategically be located in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; Santo Tomas, Batangas; and Santa Rosa, Laguna.

Collectively, these new developments contribute more than 13,000 square meters of total leasable exhibition space, significantly increasing SMX’s capacity to host trade shows, corporate events, and large-scale community gatherings across key growth corridors in Luzon. The new trade halls are strategically positioned within thriving commercial hubs to serve regional demand while supporting national event expansion beyond Metro Manila.

SMX Trade Hall Lobby.

The openings complement SMX’s broader portfolio growth, which includes landmark projects such as the SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu, which is poised to be the largest convention center in the Philippines, as well as SMXCITE (Center for International Trade and Exhibitions), envisioned as the largest exhibition and trade hall venue in the country. Together, these developments reinforce SMHCC’s commitment to building a nationwide ecosystem of world-class venues that enable economic activity, tourism, and industry collaboration.

“With the addition of these three trade halls, we are not only expanding our geographic reach but also creating more opportunities for businesses and communities to connect,” said SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Senior Vice President Mr. Walid Wafik. “Our continued investments reflect our confidence in the Philippines’ growing MICE potential and our mission to deliver accessible, high-quality event spaces across the country,” Mr. Wafik added.

The new SMX Trade Halls are designed with flexible layouts, modern infrastructure, and seamless integration with adjacent retail and hospitality developments, providing clients with convenience and scalability for events of varying sizes. As SMX continues to expand with flagship venues in Cebu and Manila alongside regional trade halls nationwide, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation demonstrates its position as a leading force in shaping the future of the Philippine MICE industry.

For more information, please visit www.smxconventioncenter.com

#SMHCC #SMXConventionCenter #rubyspreciousmoments

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Word of Mouth: Ige Ramos Launches new book, ‘Bukambibig’

Guillermo “Ige” Ramos, author, book designer, and advocate of Filipino food, recently launched Bukambibig (“Word of Mouth”) at the Ortigas Foundation Library. The book is a collection of 14 essays chronicling Ramos’ culinary discoveries through research, personal experiences, and cultural exploration.

Bukambibig is the second installment in his Lasa at Republika series, following Dila at Bandila. In the book and during the launch, Ramos challenges the idea of “authenticity” in Filipino cuisine, emphasizing that food traditions are constantly evolving.

“Eat Filipino food not for the history, because we’re not sure what is authentic. Eat Filipino food not for the culture, because we are not exotic enough. Eat Filipino food because everything you know about it is wrong,” – Ige Ramos

He encouraged audiences to rethink preconceived notions and to support local food and produce.

Mama Sita’s supports Ramos’ efforts to deepen appreciation for Filipino cuisine, in line with the mission of Teresita “Mama Sita” Reyes to preserve and promote the country’s culinary heritage through storytelling initiatives like Mga Kuwentong Pagkain.

Published by Anvil Publishing, Bukambibig is available in select branches of National Bookstore.

Photos by Allan Bella, Courtesy of Ige Ramos

#MamaSita #IgeRamos #Bukambibig #rubyspreciousmoments

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SM Hotels’ SMX Convention Center Hauls Multiple Awards at the ASEAN Tourism Forum

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.’s (SMHCC) SMX Convention Center cements its position as a top-of-mind brand in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry after earning two major regional distinctions at the recently concluded ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cebu, recognizing excellence in venue management and service standards.

ASEANTA Excellence Awards: Best ASEAN Convention Centre Award 2026 awarded to SMX Convention Center. ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards: ASEAN MICE Venue – Exhibition Venue Category awarded to SMX Manila and SMX Clark.

 

SMX Convention Center was named Best ASEAN Convention Centre at the ASEANTA Excellence Awards 2026, one of the region’s most respected platforms celebrating outstanding tourism and events destinations. This milestone marks the first time SMX Convention Center has received this prestigious honor, reinforcing its role as a premier MICE venue that drives business events, attracts international delegates, and contributes significantly to the growth and sustainability of the country’s tourism ecosystem.

Mr. Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President – Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation receives the Best ASEAN Convention Centre Award 2026 on stage with the rest of the SMX team at the 35th ASEANTA Excellence Awards.

 

Further solidifying its leadership in the exhibition sector, SMX Convention Center Manila and SMX Convention Center Clark were both recognized at the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards, winning the ASEAN MICE Venue in the Exhibition Venue Category. In 2024, SMX Convention Center Manila stood out as the sole property to receive recognition, marking a significant achievement for the convention center brand. Building on this momentum, the 2026 awards further reaffirm SMX’s growing leadership in the industry, with both SMX Convention Center Manila and SMX Convention Center Clark earning accolades—reflecting the continued expansion of hospitality distinction across SMX venues and highlighting their collective impact on the country’s MICE and tourism landscape.

“Being recognized by ASEAN bodies not only validates the hard work of our teams, but also strengthens the SMX brand as a preferred venue for regional and international events. With the opening of new SMX properties in 2026, we continue to expand our reach and offer world-class venues driving the continued development and global competitiveness of the country’s MICE sector.” said Mr. Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President – Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.

SMX Convention Center Manila and SMX Convention Center Clark were both recognized at the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards, winning the ASEAN MICE Venue in the Exhibition Venue Category.

 

As SMX Convention Center expands its footprint with new branches set to open within the year in Cebu, Cabanatuan, Sta. Rosa (Laguna), Sto. Tomas (Batangas), and Pasay, this strategic growth supports SMX’s long-term vision of bringing MICE infrastructure to more destinations, while continuing to elevate industry standards across the Philippines and the ASEAN region. With multiple award-winning venues, an expanding portfolio, and a strong commitment to service excellence, SMX Convention Center remains at the forefront of the MICE industry—driving business tourism growth and positioning the Philippines as a premier events destination in Southeast Asia.

For more information, please visit www.smxconventioncenter.com

#SMHCC #SMXConventionCenter #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Here’s How You Can Win a Trip to Cebu and Meet Kim Chiu

Julie’s kicks off 45th year with a fun surprise for loyal fans.

 

In line with its 45th anniversary celebration, Julie’s, the country’s largest neighborhood bakeshop, recently launched its Scratch Saya promo, offering loyal fans the chance to join Kim Chiu in a Super Saya Fan Meet in Cebu.

Simply purchase any Julie’s Sliced Breads to receive a scratch card. One lucky winner each from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will win an all-expenses-paid trip with a companion to Cebu and have the opportunity to meet Chiu during the Super Saya Fan Meet event in February. The three winners will also receive a pocket money of P15,000 each for the trip.

Julie’s Scratch Saya promo runs until February 18. Visit its website, Facebook and Instagram pages to know more about Julie’s exciting promos for its 45th anniversary.

About Julie’s

Julie’s is the Philippines’ largest neighborhood bakeshop, serving every Filipino with everyday fresh, everyday sulit breads for more than 40 years. Fresh, steaming hot bread baked in full view of the customers and served with courteous greetings and warm smiles became the benchmark of Julie’s phenomenal success. With over 600 stores nationwide, Julie’s is committed to its mission of feeding Filipinos by having a Julie’s bakeshop in every barangay.

#Julies #45thanniversary #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Cebu Launches MICE Guidebook at ASEAN Tourism Forum Showcasing Readiness for Purpose-Driven Global Events

Cebu, Philippines — Cebu reinforced its growing stature as a leading meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) destination in Southeast Asia with the official launch of the Cebu MICE Guidebook during the ASEAN Tourism Forum’s Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), held at the Mactan Expo in Mactan Newtown.

The guidebook was unveiled at a pivotal moment, coinciding with one of the region’s most influential tourism gatherings, attended by delegates from different ASEAN countries, senior government leaders, and industry decision-makers.

Designed as a strategic resource for international event planners, associations, and corporate organizers, the Cebu MICE Guidebook presents a comprehensive overview of the destination’s ability to host meetings that bring together diverse communities, ideas, and shared purpose.

The guidebook is the product of a collaborative effort motivated by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its industry leaders, who have long championed initiatives positioning the province as both a tourism and business hub. Developed through close coordination between private-sector stakeholders and public agencies, the project was conceived for Cebu Business Month 2025 and further refined for its official release at the ASEAN Tourism Forum. It features close to 300 establishments and service providers across key MICE service pillars, including hotels, venues, transportation providers, professional conference organizers, and event suppliers.

Tourism stakeholders and officers of the Cebu M.I.C.E. Alliance (CMA) with Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Sharlene Batin; Art Boncato Jr., Group General Manager of MHR; Cleofe Albiso, President of the Cebu MICE Alliance and Managing Director of MHR; Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco of the Department of Tourism; Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board; Avinash Menon, Cluster General Manager for Cebu, Iloilo, and Bacolod of MHR; and Josef Chiongbian, General Manager of Savoy Hotel Mactan.

 

Cebu’s fundamentals further support this momentum. With over 20,000 guest rooms and accommodation options available daily, a growing portfolio of venues, and an established mix of dining, retail, and lifestyle experiences, the destination is equipped to host events of varying scale and complexity while delivering memorable delegate experiences beyond the meeting room.

For Cleofe Albiso, President of the Cebu MICE Alliance and Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the guidebook reflects Cebu’s broader aspiration to host events with meaning and long-term value.

“As an alliance, our goal is to bridge the world with what Cebu has to offer—efficient event solutions, creative talent, and trusted local partnerships,” Albiso said. “More than a destination, Cebu invites the global community to engage with its people, culture, and purpose, creating opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth.”

The launch of the Cebu MICE Guidebook signals Cebu’s steady evolution into a future-ready MICE destination, anchored on collaboration, service excellence, and community engagement. As the global meetings industry increasingly prioritizes intentional, values-driven gatherings, Cebu positions itself as a destination prepared to host events that create impact—both for delegates and for the communities that welcome them.

#CebuMICEGuidebook #MegaworldHotels&Resorts #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SM Hotels opens the Philippines’ biggest SMX Convention Center in Cebu

Cebu City, Philippines — The Philippines’ biggest SMX Convention Center is set to open in Cebu in Q3 2026.

Located at the Cebu South Coastal Road, the Php3.3 billion landmark project of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) will offer over 21,000 square meters of leasable event space setting a new benchmark for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities in the country.

With scalable halls, professional support services, and world-class amenities, the venue will provide organizers the capacity, flexibility, and convenience needed to mount world-class events up to 18,000 delegates.

“Cebu has always been one of the most in-demand destinations for events, and we are proud to finally bring SMX’s trusted brand of service to this dynamic market. It’s the culmination of more than two decades of experience in delivering professional and high-impact events,” said Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President – Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC).

Internationally recognized as the premier convention center in the Philippines, SMX has earned a reputation for delivering professionally managed spaces tailored to the diverse needs of large-scale exhibitions, conferences, corporate events, and celebrations.

The SMX Convention Center will rise beside the SM Seaside City Cebu offering direct connectivity to major lifestyle, retail, and hospitality hubs as well as convenient access to key infrastructure such as the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

It will form part of a carefully master-planned development that includes a 300-room Park Inn Hotel, a 200-room Radisson Hotel and the 16,000-seating capacity SM Seaside Arena, reinforcing Cebu as a complete, integrated MICE and entertainment destination.

“This is our response to the long-standing demand for a convention venue of this scale in Cebu.  Soon, Cebuanos and visiting delegates alike will no longer need to fly to Manila for major exhibitions, summits, or concerts—the experience will be right here,” adds Mr. Wafik. 

For more information, please visit www.smxconventioncenter.com, https://smhotels.com.ph/

#SMXConventionCenterCebu #SMHCC #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph