SM Prime Holdings, Inc. officially marked the start of construction for the first SM mall in Bohol with a groundbreaking ceremony held on February 27 in Brgy. Cogon. This milestone reflects SM’s confidence in the province’s dynamic economic growth and its commitment to contributing to the local business landscape.
The ceremony began with a blessing led by Fr. Marcelo F. Operiano Jr. Present were Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, First Gentleman Baba Yap, and several provincial board members including Hon. Juelle Villamor, Hon. Nathaniel Binlod, Hon. DJ Balite, and Hon. Lucille Lagunay.
A number of city councilors of Tagbilaran, mayors and barangay officials from nearby towns were also present.
Representing SM were SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. Vice President Jessica Sy, SMPHI Vice President Marissa Fernan, SM Supermalls Vice President for Operations Junias Eusebio, Vice President for Operations-Visayas Michelle Llanos, and other key SM officials including Mr. Michael Bell, Ms. Maria Eloisa N. Fernan, Ms. Joanne E. Solano, Mr. Egbert T. Lim, Mr. Raphael Ryan R. Batugigas, and Mr. Antonio Jayme M. Del Prado.
Strategically located along an interior road between two major thoroughfares—J.A. Clarin and C.P. Garcia Avenue—SM City Tagbilaran will rise on a property of approximately 60,000 square meters. The mall itself will span 20,000 square meters across three levels, offering Boholanos a world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment destination.
During her speech, Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap emphasized SM’s commitment to the local community, declaring that Boholanos will come first in this development. She announced that 80% of the workforce of SM City Tagbilaran will be composed of locals, ensuring that Boholano families are the first to benefit from the opportunities created by the mall. From construction to operations, the project will provide sustainable livelihood opportunities, empowering the local workforce and businesses.
SM Supermalls President Steven Tan also highlighted the mall’s unique approach to design and sustainability. Unlike traditional SM malls, SM City Tagbilaran will incorporate a district adaptation of local architecture, blending seamlessly with Bohol’s rich cultural heritage and natural landscape. The development will feature eco-friendly innovations such as natural lighting, water conservation systems, green spaces, and solar energy to minimize its environmental footprint.
“This 60,000-square-meter development is not just about retail and leisure—it’s about building a sustainable foundation for growth that supports local employment and empowers MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises),” Tan stated.
As Tagbilaran City continues to thrive as Bohol’s economic center, SM City Tagbilaran aims to significantly enhance the local business landscape. The mall will actively attract local entrepreneurs and businesses, providing a platform to showcase regional products and services. Additionally, it is set to become a landmark attraction, playing a key role in boosting tourism and inviting visitors to experience the best that Tagbilaran and Bohol have to offer.
This new development reaffirms SM Supermalls’ role in driving regional progress while introducing Bohol to its signature blend of retail, dining, and lifestyle experiences—enriching both the local economy and the lives of those it serves.
