Melo Villareal
SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) is committing over P6 billion to a comprehensive redevelopment of the historic SM Harrison Plaza, located within the original Harrison Plaza Complex in Manila. This ambitious project aims to revitalize the iconic shopping center, blending modern design with its rich history. The revamped flagship mall is expected to open in 2027, offering an enhanced retail, dining, and entertainment experience for visitors.
SM Harrison Plaza Facade
The project is part of SM Prime’s P150-billion mall investment plan for 2026 to 2030, encompassing the major redevelopment of 16 existing malls and the addition of 12 to 15 new lifestyle malls.
Harrison Plaza, opened in 1976, was the first one-stop shopping mall in the country.
Once finished, SM Harrison Plaza will boast an estimated gross floor area exceeding 200,000 square meters, matching flagship projects like SM City Davao and SM City Clark.
“The development will incorporate nature-inspired architectural elements alongside open layouts, community spaces and green areas designed to support cultural and social activities,” said Steven T. Tan, president of SM Supermalls.
He also noted that SM Harrison Plaza will enhance SM Prime’s current mall portfolio by expanding its presence in Manila’s cultural and entertainment district.
The development is planned to serve as a mixed-use retail and lifestyle center, expanding the company’s presence to include office workers, residents, and students in Malate and Ermita.
SM Harrison Plaza attracts both foreign and local tourists due to its close location to several hotels and nearby attractions like Manila Zoo, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and Manila Bay.
Its tenant mix will combine global brands with local retailers, reflecting Malate’s character. Tan expects the project to create thousands of jobs during construction and ongoing operations, and to contribute to broader urban renewal in Manila’s city center.
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