The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) marked a significant milestone in its leadership development program with the groundbreaking of the Henry Sy Sr. Hall, a new cadet facility supported by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) as part of its long-standing commitment to nation-building.
The project aligns with the PMA’s Growth Plan, which targets the expansion of the Cadet Corps to 2,000 by 2040. This expansion will be supported by major infrastructure developments, including new shared facilities designed to strengthen the Academy’s capacity as a premier defense education institution and a future hub for disaster response in Northern Luzon.
Held at the PMA grounds in Baguio City, the groundbreaking ceremony underscored the importance of private-sector collaboration in strengthening institutions that shape the country’s future leaders.
The Henry Sy Sr. Hall is intended to address the Academy’s evolving requirements as it prepares cadets for the demands of modern leadership and national service.
“The future of the Philippines depends on strong leadership, and strong leadership is shaped by strong institutions. We believe the PMA is central to that effort,” said Hans T. Sy, Executive Committee Chairman of SM Prime Holdings, Inc.
“By building the Henry Sy Sr. Hall, we hope to provide a facility that supports the Academy’s continued evolution—because leadership is shaped not by ideals and tradition alone, but by its environment,” he added.
The two-story Henry Sy Sr. Hall will feature a large multipurpose hall capable of accommodating up to 2,500 individuals for training activities, official functions, and indoor sports. Designed by JSLA Architects, the facility incorporates features suited to Baguio City’s climate while addressing the PMA’s long-term infrastructure needs. Completion is scheduled for 2028.
For more than a century, the Philippine Military Academy has produced leaders who serve in the armed forces, government, and communities across the country. As its role grows increasingly complex, sustained investment in training environments and shared spaces remains essential to preserving and strengthening the Academy’s legacy.
