Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, one of the leading hotels in Iloilo City, officially marks its seventh year in the City of Love and Creative Gastronomy, celebrating a journey defined by Ilonggo hospitality, culinary excellence, innovation, and strong community partnerships.
The hotel’s continued success reflects the enduring alliance between Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) and SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC). As the property celebrates this milestone, it also highlights SMHCC’s commitment to developing world-class hospitality destinations that strengthen local economies, support regional tourism, and bring global hospitality standards to rapidly growing urban centers outside Metro Manila.
“Seven years ago, we envisioned Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo as a landmark property that would add to the vibrant tourism landscape of Western Visayas,” said Ms. Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation. “Seeing it flourish into a beloved destination that marries global standards with local heart is immensely rewarding. This achievement is a testament to SMHCC’s enduring mission to create meaningful experiences and support sustainable community growth across the Philippines,” Ms. Angeles added.
Since opening in 2019, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo has become an important part of Iloilo’s tourism and hospitality landscape. This year’s anniversary theme, “Seven Years of Ilonggo Hospitality,” pays tribute to the warmth, authenticity, and dedication that team members bring to every guest interaction and experience.
Global Standards, Local Flavors
The past year has been marked by notable achievements that reflect the hotel’s commitment to excellence while remaining deeply rooted in local identity and culture.
Among the property’s biggest accomplishments was earning the Safehotels Certification, an internationally recognized benchmark affirming the hotel’s rigorous safety and security standards. The certification reinforces Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo’s commitment to delivering trusted, safe, and world-class hospitality experiences for local and international guests.
At the same time, the hotel continued to elevate regional cuisine on the national stage. During the 16th National Food Showdown, the property’s culinary team earned a Gold medal for its signature Bibingka and a Silver medal for Valenciana in the Professional Category. These recognitions celebrated recipes inspired by Ilonggo heritage and culinary traditions.
“Food is more than nourishment. It is one of the strongest connections we have to our culture,” said Rouel Guanzon, General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo. “These recognitions honor the passion and dedication of our chefs, who continuously elevate the traditions that inspire us every day,” Mr. Guanzon added.
Beyond culinary recognition, the hotel has also embraced innovation to deepen guest engagement and create more meaningful experiences. Recently, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo introduced StayPlease, a digital platform that allows guests to conveniently browse menus and order dining services directly from their devices, bringing added ease and personalization to every stay.
That same innovative spirit extends to preserving and sharing local stories and traditions. Through Beyond the Plate, a masterclass developed in partnership with the Iloilo MICE Center, the hotel provided students and digital creators opportunities to explore gastronomic storytelling and discover how food can become a powerful medium for culture and identity.
The property also launched Panubli-on, a documentary-style series unveiled at its signature restaurant, Áni. The series spotlights the stories behind iconic Ilonggo dishes and the families who continue to preserve these culinary traditions. Featured narratives included the Varonas family’s Adobado nga Lukon, Ms. Pinky Gorriceta-Jalandoni’s Bibingka, and the culinary heritage behind Kap Ising’s Pancit Molo.
Together, these initiatives reflect Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo’s belief that hospitality goes beyond service. It is also about creating spaces where traditions are celebrated, stories are shared, and communities remain connected.
Empowering People and Strengthening Community Connections
The anniversary celebration also recognizes the individuals whose dedication and passion continue to drive the hotel’s success.
Ms. Lucky Alunan was recently recognized as the Front of House Winner at the SMHCC President’s Go Beyond Awards. Meanwhile, General Manager Rouel Guanzon continues to strengthen industry collaboration through his leadership roles as Public Information Officer of the Iloilo Hotels, Restaurants and Resorts Association (IHRRA) and Committee Director of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo.
Beyond professional achievements, the hotel’s anniversary observance also reflected its commitment to extending hospitality beyond its property walls.
As part of its celebration and gratitude to the community it has called home for seven years, the Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo team recently visited the Iloilo City Pound and Animal Shelter. Employees donated essential supplies and spent time supporting local rescue efforts alongside volunteers.
“At its core, hospitality is about care,” Guanzon shared. “Whether we are serving a guest, supporting our local business community, or looking out for our four-legged friends, we believe these acts of kindness are what make Iloilo special,” Mr. Guanzon emphasized.
Looking Ahead to More Meaningful Hospitality Experiences
The week-long celebration culminated in a heartfelt anniversary gathering held on April 27, 2026, honoring the team members whose passion and dedication continue to shape the hotel’s story. The following day, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo hosted a commemorative luncheon in recognition of its valued media partners, whose continued support has helped share the property’s milestones and achievements throughout the years.
As Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo enters its eighth year, the property remains committed to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences rooted in genuine Ilonggo warmth and service. The hotel continues to celebrate local culture, empower communities, and create meaningful connections that leave lasting impressions on every guest.
More than simply a destination in Western Visayas, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo strives to remain a true home away from home, blending modern comfort with the unmistakable warmth and grace that define Iloilo.
