SM is preserving history by restoring the Philippines’ cultural landmarks – showing its commitment to heritage, education, and community growth.
Through the Henry Sy Foundation and SM Foundation, the group recently restored Quezon Hall at West Visayas State University (WVSU) in Iloilo City. Recognized by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) under the 2009 National Heritage Act, the building was refurbished with care to maintain its original design while adding energy-saving features like LED lighting, inverter air-conditioning, and light-reflective paint.
“These cultural landmarks are irreplaceable—once lost, we cannot bring them back,” said SM Foundation Executive Director Deborah P. Sy. “Preservation is a collective responsibility. It goes beyond installing commemorative plaques; it means breathing new life into these spaces so they continue to serve, inspire, and remain accessible to future generations.”
WVSU’s Chief Administration Officer, Julius Undar, praised the project, saying, “People Helping People. The two foundations and WVSU have a common understanding on the pursuit of changing people’s lives for the better.”
SM also rehabilitated the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) in Pasay, a public institution founded in 1907. In partnership with the Department of Education and the local government, SM helped improve PSD’s senior high school laboratory facilities. The school now boasts inclusive learning spaces for practical courses in electronics, IT, and the performing arts.
“In restoring these heritage educational institutions, we honor the generations of learning they have nurtured,” Sy added. “Our hope is that through preservation, we help spark more opportunities for education and personal growth—not just today, but for many years to come.”
SM’s heritage commitment is also seen in the iconic Taal Vista Hotel in Tagaytay. Originally built in 1939 from a vision by President Manuel L. Quezon, it was a favorite of Henry Sy Sr. SM acquired it in 1988 and expanded it into a 262-room modern hotel, while keeping its pre-WWII charm.
China Bank, part of the SM Group, restored its original 1924 headquarters in Binondo, Manila. The Binondo Heritage Restoration Project was completed in 2020, marking the bank’s 100th anniversary. In 2021, the NHCP and the National Museum awarded China Bank with historical and cultural property markers for its dedication to heritage.
As UNESCO affirms, protecting heritage sites secures culture for future generations and helps achieve social and economic goals.
Discover more Good Deed stories of groups preserving Filipino heritage through restoration projects that inspire pride and progress on GoodNewsPilipinas.com.
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