Megaworld Hotels & Resorts wins DOT excellence award

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the hospitality arm of property developer Megaworld, has made history as the first and only hospitality group to receive the Department of Tourism’s Tourism Industry Excellence Award.

The recognition highlights the company’s status as the Philippines’ largest hotel operator and its trailblazing role as the country’s first Muslim-friendly hotel chain, certified by CrescentRating.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, along with Undersecretaries Verna Esmeralda Buensuceso and Maria Rica Bueno, presented the award to Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Group General Manager Art Boncano and Managing Director Cleofe Albiso.

The honor aligns with the group’s commitment to inclusive and culturally sensitive tourism, in support of the government’s National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts has led the industry in promoting Muslim-friendly hospitality in the Philippines.

The group secured Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment certifications for all of its hotels under the DOT’s revised guidelines.

This achievement was made possible through a partnership with the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines, which supported halal kitchen certifications, the installation of prayer facilities, and the development of culturally appropriate guest services.

Earlier this year, the company was honored at the Halal in Travel Global Summit for its leadership in advancing Muslim travel, reinforcing its global credibility.

The group also received praise for its signature Sampaguita Project, which brings Filipino culture to life through multi-sensory guest experiences inspired by the national flower.

From the scent of sampaguita in lobbies and rooms to a curated menu infused with its flavor, the project aims to engage all five senses and deliver heartfelt Filipino hospitality.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts currently operates 14 hotels with more than 6,500 room keys in major tourism destinations including Manila, Boracay, Cebu and Iloilo.

Its growing portfolio has earned international acclaim, including recognition as the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group at the World Travel Awards.

“This milestone reflects more than just excellence in hospitality—it embodies our shared commitment with the Department of Tourism to elevate the Philippines on the global stage,” said Albiso.

“We recognize tourism as a vital force for economic growth, cultural pride, and national progress,” she added.

“By championing inclusivity and showcasing authentic Filipino hospitality, we are not only enriching guest experiences but also supporting the DOT’s mission to position the Philippines as a stronger, more competitive, and more welcoming destination for the world.”

In the first half of 2025, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts posted a 19 percent revenue increase to PHP 2.81 billion, including a 12 percent rise to PHP 1.39 billion in the second quarter alone.

Earlier this year, the group signed a major partnership with global hospitality company Accor.

Under the agreement, Accor will manage select Megaworld hotel brands, beginning with the rebranding of Belmont Hotel Mactan into Mercure Mactan Cebu, scheduled for later this year.

Megaworld also announced it will expand its hotel portfolio to 9,000 room keys with the opening of eight new hotels in Metro Manila, Pampanga, Bacolod, Palawan, Boracay, Laguna and Iloilo.