SM City Tagbilaran marks Bohol’s debut in the SM Supermalls network promising new jobs, retail growth, and local development. The long awaited project signals SM Prime’s continued expansion across the Visayas that’s strengthening Tagbilaran’s position as a rising commercial hub in Central Philippines.
Groundbreaking
On February 27, 2025, SM Prime officially conducted the groundbreaking for SM City Tagbilaran in Brgy. Cogon marking the first SM mall in Bohol. The project is set on a 60,000 square meters lot between J.A. Clarin and C.P. Garcia Avenue and the mall itself will feature three levels and approximately 20,000 square meters of leasable space. Development is scheduled to begin officially in November 2025 with SM estimating the mall will open by 2028.
SM’s expansion plans also include rolling out flagship malls annually through 2030 as part of a broader ₱150 billion investment initiative. The decision to locate in Tagbilaran is positioned not only as a commercial move but as an act of confidence in Bohol’s growth potential.
Local Impact
Local leaders welcomed the announcement viewing the new mall as a catalyst for jobs and regional economic activity. Alturas Group which operates existing malls in Bohol like Island City Mall issued a public statement expressing its support for SM’s entry into Tagbilaran. During the groundbreaking, officials noted that 80% of the mall’s workforce will initially be locals reinforcing the commitment to community benefit. SM executives indicated that design elements will incorporate touches of Bohol’s culture and identity to harmonize with the local environment.
With construction set to commence in late 2025 and expected completion in 2028, SM City Tagbilaran is poised to reshape Bohol’s retail and social landscape. Its arrival signals new opportunities for commerce, employment, and urban development in the province. For residents and entrepreneurs alike, the upcoming mall represents both a milestone and a promise of what Bohol’s growth trajectory can become.
