BIZ BUZZ: Hans Sy’s new ‘family’

Who knew that opening a mall in a buzzing city on Negros Island would get you a new family?

Such is the case for billionaire Hans Sy, who flew all the way to Bacolod City last week to receive the titles of “Adopted Son of Bacolod City” and “Honorary Mayor.”

Accompanied by his children, Harvey and Carinna, Sy was all smiles beside Bacolod Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran in photos taken by Negros-based media.

What could have sparked this new addition to the responsibilities and accolades of Sy, who is already the chair of China Banking Corp. and National University?

Well, local government officials say it’s mostly what he has done for the city’s growth and overall progress.

Sy, son of the late Henry Sy Sr., served as SM Prime Holdings Inc.’s president when SM City Bacolod was opened back in 2007.

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Apart from that, SM Prime, at which the younger Sy still serves as director, is also looking at redeveloping the famous Manokan Country into a major tourist destination.

We’re waiting to see what benefits come with the new titles. A new mall, perhaps?