SM Prime Holdings Inc. is set to open the SM Seaside Cebu Arena in June 2026, expanding its large-scale entertainment venue business outside Metro Manila and strengthening Cebu’s position as a destination for concerts, sports and major live events.
The seven-storey arena, located within the SM Seaside Complex, will have a capacity of up to 25,000 people, making it one of the largest indoor arenas in the Philippines.
SM Prime said the venue is designed to meet global standards for live entertainment, sports and major events. It will feature a flexible event bowl that can be configured for both large concerts and smaller events, giving organizers more options in staging productions.
“The enduring success of SM MOA Arena shows the strong demand for world-class entertainment venues, so we are bringing the same proven model to Cebu,” SM Prime President Jeffrey C. Lim said.
Lim said Cebu remains a key growth center for SM Prime, adding that the arena is expected to attract major events, support tourism and generate more economic activity in the region.
The new arena will feature one of the country’s most advanced center-hung displays, supported by immersive LED ribbon boards designed to provide a 360-degree viewing experience. It will also have high-capacity digital infrastructure, including 5G connectivity, to support real-time audience engagement and production requirements.
SM Prime said the development will include dedicated premium suites for corporate partners and guests, expanding Cebu’s hospitality offering for live entertainment and sports events.
The facility was also designed to support front-of-house and back-of-house needs for major productions. It will include a practice court for performers, as well as multi-functional event spaces that may be used as holding areas, breakout rooms or venues for smaller private events.
Located within the SM Seaside Complex, the arena will benefit from direct access to retail, hospitality and transport infrastructure. SM Prime said this will create a more seamless experience for visitors and event organizers.
The arena’s proximity to Mactan-Cebu International Airport and nearby lifestyle developments is also expected to help position Cebu as a regional destination for international acts and large gatherings.
SM Prime said the SM Seaside Cebu Arena has been securing advance bookings since late last year. Confirmed events include BINI on July 11, IV of Spades on July 18, TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan on September 5, and LANY on November 6 and 12.
Business News Asia
