Taal Vista Hotel, one of Tagaytay’s most iconic landmarks, marks its 85th anniversary this year with a legacy of empowerment and community-building that extends far beyond its picturesque views of Taal Volcano. Through its deep commitment to sustainability and support for local communities, the hotel has made a lasting impact on its employees, suppliers, and the broader Tagaytay area, creating opportunities for growth and prosperity.
As part of the SM Group, Taal Vista’s community-driven initiatives align closely with the group’s core objectives of inclusive development and corporate social responsibility.
Empowering Employees Through Opportunity
For many of Taal Vista’s employees, the hotel is more than just a workplace—it is a source of life-changing opportunity.
Take Joel Tubig, a pool attendant, who reflects on his journey from doing construction work and driving tricycles to securing a stable career at the hotel. Joel’s life was transformed after he was awarded a technical-vocational scholarship by SM Foundation, which allowed him to gain new skills and build a career at Taal Vista.
“Taal Vista is not just a hotel, it’s part of my family’s journey. Thanks to the scholarship and a steady job, I’ve been able to send my children to private school, buy a car, and even invest in property,” said Joel. “Without the opportunities here, I honestly don’t know where I’d be today.”
This theme of empowerment is shared by Jeric Tenorio, a room attendant who celebrated his 13th year at the hotel. A graduate of SM Foundation, Jeric started as an on-the-job trainee and worked his way up within the organization, thanks to its nurturing culture and commitment to employee growth.
“Taal Vista invests in its people. I was able to pursue my degree while working, and the training I received here gave me the confidence to grow both professionally and personally,” said Jeric, who now mentors new employees.
As one of the largest employers in Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel employs a significant number of locals, with 79% of its staff coming from nearby communities. This focus on local employment has had a profound impact on the community, helping residents secure steady incomes, support their families, and improve their quality of life.
Supporting Local Businesses and Sustainable Practice
Taal Vista’s impact extends beyond its employees. The hotel is deeply committed to supporting local businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Through its Green Procurement Program, Taal Vista partners with 255 local suppliers, sourcing everything from food and beverages to goods and services, ensuring that the economic benefits of the hotel’s operations are felt throughout the community.
The hotel also collaborates with local artisans to promote sustainable, community-based practices. In partnership with local designer Zarah Juan and Bahay Kalingap Casa de Suenos, Taal Vista launched Tela Tales, a project that repurposes old hotel linens into eco-friendly bags, providing work for local volunteers, mostly women, while helping to reduce waste. The hotel also promotes farm-to-table practices by sourcing fresh, organic produce directly from its own vegetable garden.
“Taal Vista’s commitment to sustainability and local businesses helps boost the local economy and promote a more environmentally-conscious way of doing business,” said Ramon Makilan, General Manager of Taal Vista. “By supporting local suppliers, we’re not just building relationships—we’re building a stronger, more resilient community.”
Building a Sustainable Future for Tagaytay
Taal Vista Hotel’s legacy is grounded in its dedication to giving back to the community and ensuring that its operations benefit all stakeholders. From empowering employees through career opportunities and scholarships to supporting local suppliers and promoting sustainable practices, the hotel’s impact is felt throughout Tagaytay and beyond.
As Ramon Makilan reflects on the hotel’s 85-year journey, he emphasizes the importance of continuing to invest in the community and its people. “Our commitment to providing career opportunities, supporting sustainable practices, and giving back to the community is unwavering,” he said. “We look forward to many more years of service, creating lasting positive change for generations to come.”
Taal Vista Hotel’s 85-year legacy stands as a testament to the power of community-centered business practices, proving that true success is measured not just by the quality of service provided but by the positive impact made on the lives of employees, suppliers, and the local community.
For more information about SM’s initiatives and impact, visit www.sminvestments.com.
