Insider Spotlight
Located within the SM Seaside Cebu complex, the new facility is expected to strengthen Cebu's position as a leading destination for business events, conventions, exhibitions, and tourism in the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region.
Why it matters
The appointment comes as SMHCC expands its footprint in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector amid growing demand for large-scale event venues outside Metro Manila.
Siega brings more than two decades of experience in hospitality, banquet operations, and convention management.
Prior to her appointment, she served as director of banquets and event services and officer-in-charge for operations at SMX Convention Center Manila, where she oversaw high-volume events and operational initiatives.
Throughout her career, she has worked in the Philippines and the Middle East, including hospitality markets in Cebu, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah, managing corporate, government, and social events attended by international delegates and dignitaries.
What she said
"I am honored to take on this new role and be part of bringing SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu to life. Cebu continues to be a vital hub for tourism, business functions, and international gatherings, and I look forward to working alongside our team and partners in establishing the venue as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, exhibitions, and large-scale activations in the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region," Siega said in a press statement.
The convention center will feature more than 21,000 square meters of leasable space across six levels and will be directly connected to the SM Seaside Arena and SM Seaside Cebu Mall, creating an integrated destination for conventions, exhibitions, entertainment, and hospitality.
The big picture
SMHCC said the project forms part of its broader strategy to expand world-class MICE destinations across the country while supporting regional tourism and business growth.
"With Janytte's appointment, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. further reinforces its commitment to expanding world-class MICE destinations across the country and supporting the continued growth of Cebu and the Philippines as leading hubs for business events and tourism in the region," SM Hotels executive vice president Peggy Angeles said.
SMHCC, the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc., currently operates 10 hotel properties with more than 2,600 rooms and over 42,000 square meters of convention space nationwide. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
