Conglomerate SM Investments Corp. (SMIC) emphasized the importance of corporate adaptability and long-term resilience in the face of shifting global trade conditions, particularly the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariff policies.
Amando M. Tetangco Jr., former Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas governor and now SMIC independent director and chairman, said the company is investing in “prediction, adaptability, and resilience” to navigate uncertainties. Citing insights from his Harvard professor, Tetangco said that SMIC’s core businesses — retail, banking, and property — are deeply linked to domestic consumption, which comprises 70 percent of the Philippine economy.
“This economic structure gives us a level of insulation from global trade disruptions,” Tetangco said, highlighting the relative resilience of SM’s sectors amid volatile international markets. He noted the company’s strategy is focused on maintaining agility and relevance as consumer behavior evolves.
Commercially, this posture reinforces SMIC’s commitment to sustainable growth while leveraging its entrenched position in the local economy. “We are positioning ourselves to stay ahead of shifting market conditions,” Tetangco added.
In a move bolstering its governance framework, SMIC shareholders also elected Marife B. Zamora as an independent director, replacing Tomasa H. Lipana, who completed her maximum term. Zamora’s appointment maintains SMIC’s majority-independent board, exceeding regulatory requirements and affirming its corporate governance standards.
Zamora, a veteran of the telecom, insurance, and BPO sectors, joins Lilly K. Gruba as the second female independent director. She is known for her leadership advocacy, particularly in promoting women in technology through roles in the FTW Foundation and the Filipina CEO Circle.
“SM mirrors the energy and growth journey of the Philippine economy,” Zamora said, expressing enthusiasm for contributing to a firm rooted in strong governance.
