MANILA — Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the hospitality arm of property giant Megaworld, has set a new milestone in Philippine tourism after being named the first and only hospitality group to receive the Tourism Industry Excellence Award from the Department of Tourism.
The recognition underscores the company’s stature as the country’s largest hotel operator and its pioneering role as the Philippines’ first Muslim-friendly hotel chain, as certified by CrescentRating.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, together with Undersecretaries Verna Esmeralda Buensuceso and Maria Rica Bueno, presented the award to Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Group general manager Art Boncato and managing director Cleofe Albiso. The honor comes as the hospitality arm of property giant Megaworld strengthens its commitment to inclusive and culturally sensitive tourism, a thrust that closely aligns with the government’s National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028.
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts has been at the forefront of promoting Muslim-friendly hospitality in the Philippines. The group successfully secured Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment certifications for all of its hotels under the DOT’s updated guidelines. This achievement was made possible through partnerships with the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines, which helped implement halal kitchen certifications, prayer facilities, and culturally appropriate guest services. Earlier this year, the company was also recognized at the Halal in Travel Global Summit for its leadership in promoting Muslim travel, further reinforcing its international reputation.
The group has also been commended for championing Filipino culture and enriching guest experiences through its pioneering Sampaguita Project, which uses the national flower as inspiration for multi-sensory touchpoints across its hotels—from the delicate scent of sampaguita in lobbies and rooms to a curated menu infused with its flavor. Designed to engage all five senses, this signature brand of hospitality embodies warmth, respect, and heartfelt Filipino care.
Today, the company operates 14 hotels with more than 6,500 room keys in prime tourism destinations across the country, including Manila, Boracay, Cebu, and Iloilo. Its growing portfolio has earned it multiple distinctions, 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. We recognize tourism as a vital force for economic growth, cultural pride, and national progress. 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,” says Albiso.
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ revenues grew by 19 percent to P2.81 billion in the first half of 2025, including a 12 percent increase to P1.39 billion in the second quarter alone. Earlier this year, the group also announced a landmark partnership with global hospitality chain Accor. Under the collaboration, Accor will lend its expertise in operating select hotel brands within the Megaworld Hotels & Resorts portfolio, beginning with the rebranding of Belmont Hotel Mactan into Mercure Mactan Cebu, set to take place later this year.
Earlier this year, Megaworld also announced that it is boosting its hotel inventory to 9,000 room keys with the opening of eight new hotels in Metro Manila, Pampanga, Bacolod, Palawan, Boracay, Laguna and Iloilo. Press release
