SM Prime Retains Confidence Amid Slowing Economic Growth
Hans Sy, the chairman of SM Prime Holdings, which runs the largest mall in the Philippines, says that the company is still “very positive” about its growth prospects, even if the economy is showing indications of slowing down. In an interview with ANC, Sy said that even if there are still problems, SM Prime is still focused on growth and long-term stability.
Sy remarked, “I remember my father telling me, ‘What goes up will come down, and what goes down will go up.'” He noted that business works in cycles. “I can say that we’re on the way down right now, but it’s not that bad.”

Company Maintains Strong Growth Outlook
Sy stated that even while there are tensions between countries and instability in the US political system, the corporation couldn’t afford to have a negative perspective of the country’s future. “We’re always moving forward in a positive way,” he said.
He also said that the company’s new mall in La Union was doing very well, which shows that people are still interested in the brand and trust it, even when the economy is tight.
SM to Open Three New Malls and Major Developments in 2026
Sy said that SM Prime is getting ready to build three new malls next year, along with a number of other important initiatives. He stated, “I’m really looking forward to next year.” “We’re opening three more malls and starting our Cebu projects, which include a big arena and a convention center, and also the new Susana Heights development.”
These actions show that SM Prime is committed to diversifying across different types of real estate. This is a strategy that will help the company keep growing even when the market changes.
Recommended Article: Pennsylvania’s Erie Torn Amid Trump Tariffs and Economic Strain
Diversification and Strategic Expansion
Sy said that the organization has been able to stay stable throughout prior downturns by branching out into real estate-related businesses. He said, “We’ve been branching out into other real estate-related businesses, and these new projects are part of that growth.”
He also said that the group’s varied portfolio of malls, homes, offices, and tourist assets gives it many sources of income, which protects the firm from short-term changes.
Resilience Through Core Business Principles
Sy noted that one of the main reasons SM Prime has been successful for so long is because it sticks to its basic values. “We stick to our basic rules.” “We don’t try to get into businesses that we don’t know about,” he said.
This cautious yet focused approach has helped SM go through many economic cycles while still giving value to both shareholders and customers.
Risk Management and Strategic Decision-Making
Sy stressed how important it is to prepare ahead and control risks while making big decisions. He remarked, “I always make sure that if a decision doesn’t work, it won’t be a big deal.” “But if it works, it will be very good.”
This kind of thinking, which blends taking risks with careful planning, has helped SM Prime flourish for decades.
Recognition for Leadership and Vision
The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) has celebrated Hans Sy’s leadership by naming him Management Person of the Year 2025. The award honors his great work in the Philippine commercial world, especially in retail and property development.
SM Prime is still a key part of the Philippine economy under Sy’s leadership. Its initiatives shape urban growth and create jobs and investment possibilities all around the country.
SM Prime Stays Focused on Long-Term Growth Amid Global Uncertainty
Even when things are unclear throughout the world, SM Prime’s message is the same: hope based on discipline and a long-term vision. The corporation is setting itself up for long-term success by building new malls and big projects and continuing to innovate in real estate. This will last until 2026 and beyond.
Sy said, “Business has its ups and downs, but we’re sure.” “We’re ready for the next wave of expansion.”













