SM advances education drive with new school facility

Insider Spotlight

• SM officially handed over the new Henry Sy Sr. Hall to San Francisco High School in Quezon City, a year after a fire affected the campus
• The four-story facility includes 24 classrooms and sustainability features, including 1,200 classroom chairs made from upcycled plastic
• The building was completed ahead of the opening of public school classes and is expected to support around 6,800 students
  
  
  

SM Supermalls has officially turned over the newly completed Henry Sy Sr. Hall to San Francisco High School (SFHS) in Quezon City, marking a major milestone in the school’s recovery efforts following a fire that affected the campus last year.

The four-story building, located within the SFHS campus near SM North Edsa, was donated by SM and completed ahead of the opening of public school classes on June 8, 2026. The facility is designed to provide students and teachers with a modern learning environment while incorporating sustainability initiatives.

Why it matters

The project underscores the growing role of private sector participation in supporting public education infrastructure, particularly in densely populated urban centers where schools face capacity and resource challenges.

Henry Sy Sr. Hall houses 24 classrooms equipped with teacher workstations, Google TVs, ceiling-mounted oscillating fans, and dedicated restroom facilities on every floor. Selected rooms on the third floor also feature operable wall systems that can accommodate auditorium-style functions.

The building also includes 1,200 classroom chairs made from upcycled plastic, reflecting SM’s sustainability initiatives and environmental commitments.

The big picture

During the turnover ceremony, SM executives joined national and local government officials, education leaders, and school representatives to formally inaugurate the facility. Attendees included Department of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Carlo Sotto, and members of the Sy family.

“The new Henry Sy Sr. Hall symbolizes more than just a building. It represents opportunity, hope, and our collective investment in the future of this community. We hope this new facility will inspire students to learn, grow, and become future leaders who will contribute positively to our nation,” SM Supermalls president Steven Tan said in a press statement.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte also visited the new facility and met with SM leaders and representatives.

What’s next

SFHS, one of the country’s largest public secondary schools with around 6,800 learners, is expected to immediately benefit from the expanded classroom capacity as classes begin. 

Through projects such as Henry Sy Sr. Hall, SM continues to support the development of learning environments aimed at improving educational outcomes for future generations. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma