SM Hotels & Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) has officially ventured into the premium island luxury segment through a landmark partnership with the renowned Shangri-La Group to develop Shangri-La Santelmo Cove in Hamilo Coast, Batangas.
Set to open in 2031, this upcoming eco-resort marries SMHCC’s local development expertise with Shangri-La’s global hospitality experience. The collaboration is anchored in a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability
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 Nasugbu resort is envisioned as an immersive coastal destination that brings together world-class hospitality, thoughtful design, and environmental stewardship.
“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 Peggy E. Angeles.
SMHCC and Shangri-La Group executives recently signed the agreement for Shangri-La Santelmo Cove from left: Sunny Paw – Group Chief Operating Officer, Shangri-La Group; Elizabeth T. Sy – President, SMHCC ; Hans T. Sy – Chairman of the Executive Committee SM Prime Holdings Inc.; and Peggy Angeles – Executive Vice President, SMHCC . Standing (from left): Neil Rumbaoa – VP-Business Development, SMHCC ; 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.
The partnership 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,” Angeles added.
“Shangri-La Santelmo Cove presents a unique opportunity to celebrate the Philippines’ natural and cultural treasures,” said 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.
By combining luxury with responsible tourism, SMHCC and Shangri-La Group are pioneering a new standard of nature-led hospitality in the Philippines, proving that world-class leisure development and active marine conservation can successfully thrive hand in hand.