By Veronica Uy
In a landmark achievement for Filipino hospitality, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) has been awarded the prestigious title of the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group by the World Travel Awards (WTA).
This accolade marks a significant milestone for MHR, a rapidly growing homegrown hotel chain renowned for its heartfelt service and dedication to showcasing Filipino pride.
As the nation’s largest hotel operator, MHR boasts a portfolio of 13 hotels across 7 brands, with more than 8,500 room keys. Beyond its extensive inventory, MHR is celebrated for its unique approach to hospitality, exemplified by its signature brand of service, Sampaguita, which emphasizes warm, Filipino hospitality through the values that the national flower symbolizes.
For the first time in history, The World Travel Awards took place in the Philippines last September 3, 2024. With over three decades of recognizing exemplary travel brands across the globe since 1993, WTA consolidates for travelers top destinations and tourism partners from across sectors and continents voted by the general public. With this unique layer of credibility that reflects the genuine experiences of travelers from around the world WTA is regarded as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.
Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of MHR, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We share this award with the 3,000 hoteliers across the Megaworld Hotels & Resorts properties who found a home, a sense of belongingness, and a pride of serving a Filipino brand in us.”
“This award will further strengthen our brands as we continue to contribute as an industry to the economy of the country and enable MHR to give back to its stakeholders. Our hotels are more than just structures; they are homes where guests experience genuine Filipino hospitality,” she added.
Albiso also said the Philippines is honored with hosting the WTA. “With this year’s event taking place in the Philippines, is a huge vote of confidence that testifies to the country’s prominence as a travel destination and our proud commitment to deliver exceptional experiences,” she said.
In addition to this honor, Savoy Hotel Manila, a prominent MHR brand, has won its 4th consecutive recognition as the Philippines’ Leading Airport Hotel. Conveniently situated at Newport City in Pasay, directly across from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, Savoy Hotel Manila provides an ideal retreat for layover and transient guests. It shares its location with Belmont Hotel Manila, which is a favored choice for business travelers and convention attendees due to its proximity to the township’s largest convention facilities.
Another standout in MHR’s portfolio is Grand Westside Hotel, recognized as the Philippines’ largest hotel with 1,530 rooms.
Opened by President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos Jr., this landmark property is part of Megaworld’s Westside City township in Paranaque’s Entertainment City.
Right beside its structure is also the Kingsford Hotel with 529 rooms that serves as other options with preferential rates and facilities that’s most ideal for the area.
The entire township is set to become the “Broadway of Asia” with its world-class dining, gaming, and entertainment offerings, according to Kevin Tan, CEO of Alliance Global Inc.
MHR’s commitment to showcasing the best of the Philippines extends to its diverse destinations. In Manila, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel offer stays in key business and lifestyle districts. Hotel Lucky Chinatown provides a gateway to Manila’s historic Chinatown, Binondo, while Twin Lakes Hotel in the south offers breathtaking views of Taal Lake from its hillside rooms.
Boracay, renowned for its world-class beaches, is home to Megaworld’s Boracay Newcoast, a dynamic township featuring Savoy and Belmont Hotels as well as the Boracay Newcoast Convention Center (BNCC). This vibrant community is perfect for large scale events for at least a thousand people at a time attending meetings, incentives, conventions, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in a tropical paradise.
In Cebu, Mactan Newtown, Megaworld’s provincial city township, features a Savoy and Belmont Hotel. This micro-city integrates residential communities, a preparatory school, office spaces, shopping, dining, and lifestyle facilities, offering a comprehensive experience just 15 minutes from Mactan International Airport.
Iloilo, known as the City of Love, is celebrated for its UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy status and rich heritage. The Richmonde Hotel Iloilo provides modern comforts in a location steeped in history and culture.
For more information on MHR’s offerings and to explore the best of the Philippines, visit www.megaworldhotels.com.