The SM Group’s integrated and strategically positioned properties within Central Luzon’s Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone, including SM City Clark, SM Offices, National University, SMX Convention Center, and Park Inn by Radisson Clark, serve as vital economic and cultural hubs. These properties complement Clark’s rapid development as a gateway to the northern regions.
Clark’s ongoing transformation into a business and lifestyle gateway offers a dynamic alternative to Metro Manila’s urban sprawl. This evolution is driven by strategic infrastructure development, robust tourism, and public-private partnerships that fuel its expansion.
“This region is steadily becoming a hub for growth,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “In recent years, we have supported this growth through our integrated properties, helping spur economic activity for the benefit of the communities where we operate.”
Since its first venture into the Freeport in 2006, SM properties have created over 20% of the 138,000 jobs in Clark. SM Offices alone provide more than 22,000 jobs across 10 office towers, with an additional 5,000 employed by mall tenants at SM City Clark.
SM’s presence in Clark is aligned with the evolving needs of the community, offering access to quality education and promoting tourism and local heritage through an integrated development approach.
“The impact of SM in integrating economic activity and investments has been consistent,” remarked a representative from the Clark Development Corporation (CDC).
In 2023, SM City Clark was among the top five revenue generators, contributing 6% to CDC’s overall revenues.
Located near Clark International Airport, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and the upcoming North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), the complex is set to further enhance mobility and access to northern regions.
Empowering Local Talent
Local entrepreneurs like Ms. Jo-Ann “Anne” Emperado-Macababat, founder of women’s accessories brand Malanne, were among the pioneers of the SM StartUp Market. Starting with just 10 earring designs at SM City Clark, Malanne has expanded to over 300 designs, now available at six SM Supermalls, including SM Mall of Asia and SM Store Makati.
Another early partner was perfume brand Prescripto, founded by Mr. Marnie Alcantara in 2006. Starting small, the brand has grown into a nationwide business with over 65 branches.
In an interview, Mr. Alcantara recalled, “We weren’t businessmen; we didn’t know how we’d be approved. But SM gave us that chance.”
Expanding Horizons
SM’s integrated property in Clark will soon be further connected with the construction of a multimodal transport terminal, which broke ground in September 2024.
The terminal will boost public access to Clark, coinciding with the NSCR station’s completion, which will directly link to the mall. It will also serve bus routes connecting farther northern areas and accommodate additional routes converging in Clark. SM City Clark’s Sky Line will ensure that access within the complex is within a 5-10 minute walk.
“By creating a vibrant transport hub, SM aims to connect Metro Manila with northern cities, enhancing local trade and tourism with Pampanga as a key destination,” added Tan.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) is also expanding in Clark, with plans to grow the SMX Convention Center and Park Inn, alongside plans to add more hotels over the next five years.
