SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), the owning and managing company of Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod, continues to strengthen its sustainability agenda by advancing circular economy initiatives through strategic partnerships and community-driven programs. Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod plays a key role in demonstrating how sustainable hospitality practices can create measurable environmental and socio-economic impact.
At a time when global fuel volatility continues to challenge local industries, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod remains proactive in delivering practical solutions. What began in 2024 as a localized waste-to-energy initiative has evolved into a model of public and private sector collaboration that supports both environmental sustainability and community resilience.
Biodiesel Project Supports Communities and Sustainability
At the center of the hotel’s sustainability efforts is its flagship Biodiesel Project, which converts used cooking oil (UCO) into high-grade fuel. This initiative reflects circular economy principles by transforming waste into a valuable and reusable resource within hotel operations.
In its latest milestone, the property, in collaboration with the Congressional Office of Representative Albee Benitez, donated 200 liters of biodiesel to residents of Brgy. Singcang. This recent turnover increases the total contribution to 2,600 liters of donated fuel since the project’s inception.
Based on average production yields, this volume is estimated to support approximately 16 tons of collective catch for local fisherfolk. The initiative provides a vital energy source that supports livelihoods while helping communities navigate ongoing fuel challenges. It highlights how sustainable hospitality initiatives can directly benefit local economies.
The initiative is supported by a technical partnership with Green Solutions, led by CEO Engr. Ian Fred Solas. Through this collaboration, collected UCO is efficiently converted into clean-burning biodiesel instead of contributing to environmental waste. This process reduces pollution and strengthens a closed-loop system within the hotel’s operations.
“Sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity, especially as we navigate the complexities of the global fuel market,” shared Reljun Oloroso, Director of People & Culture and sustainability champion of Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod. “This project demonstrates that through strong partnerships with government and technical experts, we can transform waste into a valuable resource that benefits both communities and the environment.”
Circular Economy Programs Highlighted at Panaad Festival
Reinforcing its commitment to responsible tourism, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod has been invited by the Bacolod City Government to showcase its circular economy programs at this year’s Panaad sa Negros Festival. The initiatives are currently featured at the Bacolod LGU Pavilion, where visitors can explore eco-friendly practices, repurposed materials, and innovative waste management solutions.
This showcase presents a broader view of the hotel’s sustainability ecosystem, highlighting how multiple programs work together to support a closed-loop system and long-term community impact.
The Biodiesel Project serves as a model for waste-to-energy conversion and cross-sector collaboration.
Tela Tales is a three-year upcycling initiative that transforms retired hotel linens into new products, providing livelihood opportunities for 15 volunteers in Brgy. Felisa.
The Bokashi Method is a four-year program that converts organic waste into compost in partnership with the Negros Economic Development Foundation (NEDF). Through a closed-loop system, the hotel supports 55 farmers and has processed over 100,000 kilos of food waste into fertilizer.
Leading Sustainable Hospitality in Negros
As the only hotel in Negros currently holding the Hotel Sustainability Basics certification, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod continues to set a benchmark for sustainable hospitality in the region. Its initiatives reflect SMHCC’s long-term vision of integrating sustainability into core operations while delivering meaningful benefits to communities.
“At SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, we see sustainability as a shared responsibility that extends beyond our properties and into the communities we serve,” said Leah Magallanes, Vice President for Quality and Sustainability at SMHCC. “Initiatives like the Biodiesel Project demonstrate how circular economy practices can create tangible impact, turning everyday operations into opportunities for environmental stewardship and inclusive growth.”
Through these initiatives, SMHCC continues to champion a greener and more resilient hospitality industry. Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod stands as a model of how circular economy practices, strong partnerships, and community engagement can work together to create lasting environmental and economic value.
