SM Prime backs PMA growth plan with Henry Sy Sr. Hall project

Insider Spotlight

• SM Prime Holdings supports PMA infrastructure expansion
• Henry Sy Sr. Hall to anchor cadet growth and training capacity
• Private sector seen as key partner in leadership development
• Facility designed for long-term defense and disaster response roles
  
  

SM Prime Holdings Inc. is backing the Philippine Military Academy’s (PMA) long-term growth plan with the groundbreaking of the Henry Sy Sr. Hall, a major new facility aimed at supporting the expansion and modernization of the country’s premier military school.

The ceremony, held at the PMA grounds in Baguio City, underscored the role of private-sector participation in strengthening institutions that shape national leadership, as the Academy prepares for a larger cadet population and more complex responsibilities.

Why it matters

The PMA’s growth plan targets an expansion of the Cadet Corps to 2,000 by 2040, a significant increase that requires new shared spaces, training venues and support facilities. The Henry Sy Sr. Hall is positioned as a cornerstone project in meeting those needs while reinforcing the Academy’s role in national defense education and disaster response in Northern Luzon.

What they’re saying

“The future of the Philippines depends on strong leadership, and strong leadership is shaped by strong institutions. We believe the PMA is central to that effort,” Hans T. Sy, SM Prime executive committee chair, said in a press statement on Feb. 11, 2026.

“By building the Henry Sy Sr. Hall, we hope to provide a facility that supports the Academy’s continued evolution. Because leadership is shaped not by ideals and tradition alone, but by its environment,” he added.

The project

The Henry Sy Sr. Hall will be a two-story structure anchored by a large multipurpose hall that can accommodate up to 2,500 individuals. The space is intended for training activities, official functions and indoor sports, addressing both operational and community-building requirements within the Academy.

Designed by JSLA Architects, the facility will feature elements tailored to Baguio City’s climate and the PMA’s long-term infrastructure needs. Construction is scheduled for completion by 2028, aligning with the Academy’s phased expansion plans.

The bigger picture

For more than a century, the PMA has produced leaders who serve across the armed forces, government and communities nationwide. As security, governance and disaster-response challenges grow more complex, sustained investment in training environments and shared facilities has become essential to maintaining the institution’s legacy.

SM Prime’s support reflects a broader view of nation-building, where private enterprises contribute not only to economic growth but also to the development of future leaders who will serve the public good. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma