SM Hotels, Shangri-La Group to Build New Upscale Resort in Hamilo Coast Set to Rise in 2031
In their first partnership, the property giants have agreed to build an upscale resort within one of the Philippines' ecologically rich environments.
by JV Ordoñez
Published on Sep 30, 2026
SM Hotels & Conventions Corp. and the Shangri-La Group have agreed to develop a new sustainable upscale resort in the ecologically rich Hamilo Coast by 2031.
This is the first partnership between SM Prime Holdings Inc.'s hospitality arm and the Shangri-La Group, which is also expecting an ultra-luxury living mega project in Cebu by 2031 in Shang Bauhinia Residences.
Shangri-La Santelmo Cove, the planned luxury resort, will have about 40 villas and 50 rooms and suites designed to complement the natural terrain and ocean views in the master-planned seaside community of Nasugbu, Batangas.
Hamilo Coast is known for its vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and thriving marine biodiversity.
Both property developers see this resort as an immersive coastal destination that bridges world-class hospitality 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 Ms. Peggy E. Angeles.
“Our partnership with Shangri-La Group 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.”
SMHCC is made up of 10 hotel properties that span more than 2,600 rooms and over 42,000 sqm. of lessable convention space.
The company's portfolio includes Taal Vista Hotel, Pico Sands Hotel, Conrad Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Radisson Blu Cebu, Park Inn by Radisson Clark, Park Inn by Radisson Davao, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod, and the SMX Convention Centers (SMX Manila, SMX Aura, SMX Bacolod, SMX Davao, Olongapo City Convention Center, and SMX Clark) and trade halls (Megatrade Hall and Sky Hall Seaside Cebu).
Shangri-La Group is also one of the world's most prolific and premier developers that owns and manages more than 100 hotels under the Shangri-La, Shangri-La Signatures, Kerry, JEN by Shangri-La, and Traders brands.
“This project represents more than the addition of a new property to our portfolio. It is an opportunity for SM Hotels to help shape the next generation of Philippine leisure destinations,” Angeles noted.
“We are proud to partner with Shangri-La in creating a resort that allows guests to experience the beauty of the Philippines in a way that is both exceptional and mindful of its surroundings.”
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