SM PRIME HOLDINGS Inc. (SMPH) has lined up greater than 20 events for 2026 on the newly opened SM Seaside Cebu Arena, expanding the roster of large-scale live entertainment events within the Visayas.
“Our goal is to assist Cebu capture a bigger share of the live entertainment economy. When major events come to town, the impact extends beyond the venue. They support tourism, hospitality, transport, retail and the local services that profit from stronger visitor inflow,” SM Prime President Jeffrey C. Lim said in a press release on Thursday.
The corporate said the lineup includes live shows by local and international artists, live productions, sporting events, and family entertainment. Some performers are also expected to stage their first large-scale shows within the Visayas.
Mr. Lim said the sector was developed as consumer spending on live entertainment has increased for the reason that pandemic, particularly amongst younger audiences.
He also cited improvements in ticketing platforms and venue technology as aspects supporting demand for live events.
In May, SM Prime partnered with Ticketmaster to launch SM Ticketmaster, which is able to replace SM Tickets. The three way partnership combines Ticketmaster’s ticketing platform and fraud prevention tools with SM Prime’s local operating network.
Designed by global architecture firm Arquitectonica, the sector has greater than seven hectares of gross floor area and a seating capability of as much as 25,000.
The venue includes a center-hung display system for sports, live shows, and other live events. It also has 30 Premier Suites above the VIP sections. Each suite accommodates 13 to 31 guests and includes dedicated VIP lounges, a café, and an exclusive entrance.
The world has direct access to SM Seaside City Cebu, the upcoming SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu, Park Inn by Radisson, and Radisson Blu Cebu.
On the local bourse on Thursday, SMPH shares gained 0.99% or 18 centavos to shut at P18.36 apiece. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno