Press Release
SM Hotels & Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is expanding into the premium island tourism segment with Shangri-La Santelmo Cove, a new coastal resort to be developed in Hamilo Coast, south of Manila, in partnership with the Shangri-La Group.
Set to open in 2031, Shangri-La Santelmo Cove will offer an elevated resort experience within one of the Philippines’ ecologically rich marine environments. The resort will feature approximately 40 villas and 50 rooms and suites, thoughtfully designed to complement the natural terrain and ocean views.
Nestled within a protected cove known for its vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and thriving marine biodiversity, the resort is envisioned as an immersive coastal destination that brings together world-class hospitality, thoughtful design, and environmental stewardship.
With the addition of Shangri-La Santelmo Cove, SMHCC continues to broaden its hospitality portfolio across distinct segments and destinations in the Philippines, from city hotels and convention facilities to leisure properties and now, premium island destinations.
“Shangri-La Santelmo Cove marks an important milestone in SM Hotels’ portfolio as we venture further into the island and leisure tourism landscape,” said SMHCC Executive Vice President Ms. Peggy E. Angeles. “Our partnership with Shangri-La Group brings together two organizations with extensive experience in creating distinctive hospitality experiences in the Philippines. Together, we look forward to developing a destination that not only showcases the extraordinary beauty of Hamilo Coast, but also demonstrates how luxury and responsible tourism can thrive alongside one another.”
“Shangri-La Santelmo Cove presents a unique opportunity to celebrate the Philippines’ natural and cultural treasures,” said Mr. Sunny Paw, Group Chief Operating Officer of Shangri-La Group. “For more than two decades, Shangri-La has built a strong legacy in the country through our hotels and resorts in Manila, Boracay, and Cebu. The Santelmo Cove project is a natural and exciting extension of this journey across the archipelago, allowing us to introduce a new chapter of sustainable, nature-led luxury that reflects both the spirit of the destination and the values of our brand.”
For SMHCC, Shangri-La Santelmo Cove reinforces its commitment to developing hospitality destinations that create long-term tourism value while respecting the environments and communities in which they operate. The resort will also strengthen Hamilo Coast’s positioning as a destination where hospitality, nature, and responsible development come together.
Photo above : SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. and Shangri-La Group executives at the Shangri-La Santelmo Cove signing event. Seated (left to right): Sunny Paw – Group Chief Operating Officer, Shangri-La Group; Elizabeth T. Sy – President, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Hans T. Sy – Chairman of the Executive Committee SM Prime Holdings Inc.; and Peggy Angeles – Executive Vice President, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. Standing (left to right): Neil Rumbaoa – VP-Business Development, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Bryan Chen – Vice President, Investment & Asset Management, Shangri-La Group; John Rice – Vice President of Operations (SEAA), Shangri-La Group; and Sylvia Zheng – Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, Shangri-La Group.
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