SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) proudly announced that Park Inn by Radisson Davao has achieved a significant milestone in inclusive hospitality. The hotel was recently recognized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as the first Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment in the Davao Region. This prestigious designation highlights the hotel’s continued dedication to cultural sensitivity and guest inclusivity, making it a trailblazer in the region’s hospitality landscape.
This recognition is awarded only to DOT-accredited properties that meet strict criteria centered on religious sensitivity and dietary requirements. “This milestone underscores the hotel’s strong commitment to inclusive hospitality and culturally sensitive service.” Park Inn by Radisson Davao has gone beyond basic hospitality by embedding Muslim-friendly features throughout its guest services.
Among the specific measures the hotel has implemented are: the provision of prayer mats, the installation of Qibla direction markers in rooms to help Muslim guests identify the correct direction for prayer, and the placement of Qur’ans in guest rooms. Dietary needs are also carefully considered. The hotel offers flexible meal options upon request, including meals with strictly no pork and other Muslim-friendly alternatives. Notably, a dedicated non-pork station is available at the hotel’s daily breakfast buffet.
To ensure quality and respectful service, hotel team members undergo training on cultural sensitivity. “The hotel also maintains a dedicated non-pork station at its daily breakfast buffet and ensures that team members are trained in culturally respectful service.” Muslim team members within the kitchen and food and beverage service departments further reinforce this environment of understanding and hospitality. Their presence brings a heightened level of awareness and often offers guests the comfort of speaking in familiar dialects, adding to a sense of home and warmth during their stay.
The official certificate recognizing this distinction was personally awarded by DOT Region XI Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan. Representing the hotel in receiving the certificate were General Manager Sven Toune, Director of Sales and Marketing Liza Gamo, and Front Office Muslim representative Razul Gregorio.
Further demonstrating its strong advocacy for inclusive hospitality, Park Inn by Radisson Davao also participated in the Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo 2025. This event was held at SMX Davao—another property under SMHCC—from June 18 to 20, 2025. The hotel served as one of the event’s patron sponsors and exhibitors, further solidifying its commitment to the growing Muslim travel and culinary segment.
The expo concluded with a highlight event—the Halal Friendly Culinary Olympics—where Park Inn’s Executive Sous Chef, Chef Vance Bolivar, took center stage. Representing the hotel’s innovative culinary capabilities, Chef Vance showcased a modernized version of Tiyula Itum, a traditional Tausug dish. His creation, the Tiyula Itum Steak Medallion, transformed the dish from its customary soup form into a refined plated entrée. Chef Vance seared a tender cut of beef tenderloin and complemented it with a rich, dark sauce made from charred coconut and aromatic spices. The result was a dish that honored cultural authenticity while embracing elevated culinary techniques and presentation.
Inspiration for this reimagined dish came from a member of Chef Vance’s own team, Chef Aira, who is Tausug. This collaboration rooted the dish in genuine cultural origins and underscored the hotel’s respectful approach to Muslim cuisine. The entry won 2nd place in the culinary competition, a testament to the hotel’s growing expertise in Halal-friendly food and its commitment to diversity in the kitchen. “The entry earned 2nd place, underscoring the team’s culinary creativity, cultural respect, and growing expertise in Muslim-friendly food preparation.”
The Department of Tourism Region XI commended Park Inn by Radisson Davao for setting the benchmark in the local hospitality industry. Their efforts not only provide a culturally sensitive space for Muslim guests but also contribute to making the Davao region a more accessible and inclusive travel destination. The hotel’s initiative serves as an example for other properties, pushing the industry toward broader inclusivity and higher standards.
“Ultimately, this recognition reaffirms Park Inn by Radisson Davao’s position as one of the trailblazers in inclusive hospitality, inspiring other establishments to follow suit. After all, building a more welcoming and culturally considerate tourism landscape is not just good practice—it is good hospitality.”
For room inquiries, guests may contact the hotel through email at reservations.davao@parkinn.com or by calling 082 272 7600. For meetings or social events, you may reach out via email at banquet.davao@parkinn.com or through mobile at +63 917 827 9565.
