Janytte Siega is stepping into one of the most significant roles in the Philippine meetings and events industry as SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) taps the seasoned hospitality executive to lead SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu ahead of its scheduled opening in November 2026.
Named general manager of the landmark facility, Siega will oversee preparations for what is poised to become the country’s largest convention and exhibition venue.
Her appointment comes as SMHCC accelerates efforts to strengthen the Philippines’ position in the fast-growing meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) sector and elevate Cebu’s profile as a leading business events destination in Asia-Pacific.
Siega brings more than two decades of experience across the hospitality, banquet, and events industries, with a career spanning the Philippines and the Middle East. Her expertise covers operations management, guest experience, large-scale event execution, and venue leadership—skills that will be critical as the convention center moves from development to full-scale operations.
Before taking on the Cebu post, Siega served as director of Banquets and Event Services and officer-in-charge for Operations at SMX Convention Center Manila. In that role, she helped manage some of the country’s largest conventions, exhibitions, and corporate gatherings while driving service improvements and operational efficiency.
Her professional journey also includes leadership roles with luxury hotels and internationally recognized hospitality brands in Cebu, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah, where she handled high-profile events attended by government officials, corporate leaders, and international delegates.
As general manager, Siega will focus on pre-opening readiness, workforce development, strategic partnerships, and delivering world-class event experiences.
Located within the SM Seaside Cebu complex, the six-level convention center will feature more than 21,000 square meters of leasable space and direct links to the SM Seaside Arena and SM Seaside Cebu Mall, creating an integrated hub for conventions, exhibitions, entertainment, and hospitality.
