SM Expanding Footprint in Clark, Pampanga

The SM group's integrated and strategically located properties in Central Luzon's Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone—SM City Clark, SM Offices, National University, SMX Convention Center, and Park Inn by Radisson Clark, all within a complex—serve as economic and cultural hubs, complementing Clark's rapid development as a northern gateway.

The transformation of Central Luzon's Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone in Pampanga continues to give an alternative solution to Metro Manila's growing urbanization. Clark's transformation into a gateway destination for business and leisure is fueled by planned infrastructure development, a strong tourism industry, and public-private collaborations.

“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 its initial entrance into the Freeport in 2006, available jobs across the several SM assets in the area now account for more than 20% of the total number of jobs among Clark's 138,000 employees. SM Offices alone employs nearly 22,000 people across its existing ten office towers, in addition to the 5,000 mall tenants in SM City Clark.

SM's presence in Clark has expanded to meet the community's requirements, including providing access to quality education and promoting tourism and local heritage through its integrated property development approach.

“The impact of SM in terms of integrating economic activity and investments has been consistent,” a representative from the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) said.

In 2023, SM City Clark was among the top five revenue providers, accounting for 6% of the CDC's total revenue.

The complex's closeness to Clark International Airport, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and the upcoming North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) are expected to improve mobility and access to and from various northern regions.
 
SM's integrated property in Clark is expected to expand its connections within and outside of the city with the development of a transport terminal, which began in September of this year.

The transportation terminal is expected to facilitate public access to and from Clark, especially in light of the building of the NSCR station, which will connect to the mall.

The multimodal terminal will connect not only to the train but also to bus routes heading north and other upcoming routes that may converge in Clark. It will also connect to the SM City Clark Sky Line, allowing access within a 5-10-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,” Mr. Tan added.

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) is also planning to extend its Clark portfolio, which includes the SMX Convention Center and Park Inn. Park Inn has announced intentions to expand the property with more hotels over the next five years.