Taal Vista Hotel marked a significant milestone as it received its formal designation as a UN Peace Center and Global Citizens Hub during the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations. The hotel, known as one of the Philippines’ most iconic heritage properties, strengthened its role as a center for culture, sustainability, and community-driven peace programs. The conferment took place on October 21 and was led by the United Nations Association of the Philippines, the United Network of Global Citizens, and SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation. The theme focused on Building the Future Together.
Subheading: Significance of the Conferment
The United Nations Association of the Philippines, a civic partner of the UN that promotes peace, diplomacy, and education, spearheaded the ceremony in partnership with UNGC and SMHCC. This alliance highlighted the importance of collaboration in promoting global citizenship and peace efforts. The conferment recognized the heritage value of Taal Vista Hotel and its contribution to cultural preservation and nation building.
In her welcome message, SMHCC Senior Vice President Ms. Cathy Nepomuceno said, “As a company rooted in the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and nation-building, SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation stands in solidarity with the vision and values championed by the United Nations. We take great pride in Taal Vista Hotel’s legacy, which now serves as a hub for meaningful dialogue, education, collaboration, and purposeful action.”
UNGC Founder and President Jenny Pearl Ninalga emphasized the value of the location during her message. She stated, “By anchoring a Peace Center in a Filipino heritage landmark like Taal Vista, we declare that peace is not built in conference halls alone, it begins where history, culture, and community meet. UN’s sustainable goals are not just policies; they are a living promise to humanity.”
Subheading: UN Flag Raising and Messages of Commitment
Mr. Roderick Ric Cruz, Global President of the United Nations Association of the Philippines, led the formal turnover and the raising of the UN flag. He reminded the audience that “a UN Flag hoisted on our soil reminds us of our collective commitment to peace, because no matter which country we come from, we are united under one flag, the flag of the United Nations.” He added, “The hoisting of the United Nations Flag today is more than ceremony, it is a declaration of shared purpose, the Philippines, being one of the original signatories of the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.” He also noted that “a UN Flag gives weight to the place where it is hoisted, and when we name a ballroom or a hall as a Peace Center, we do not just assign a title, we give meaning and mission to that space.”
Taal Vista Hotel Director of Operations Ms. Brenda Cabuyao expressed the hotel’s commitment during her acceptance speech. She said, “We envision Taal Vista Hotel as a place where meaningful conversations are sparked, where culture and community find harmony, and where every guest is reminded that peace is not just an aspiration, it is an action, lived and shared.” She added, “As we accept this conferment, we are inspired to continue creating spaces that uplift, connect, and empower. May this milestone remind us all that each of us holds a part in shaping a world that is more compassionate, collaborative, and at peace.”
Subheading: Support from Government and Partners
The Department of Tourism, represented by Regional Director Marites Castro of Region IV A Calabarzon, commended UNGC’s efforts in promoting global citizenship through education and community empowerment. She shared that “these ideals resonate deeply with our mission in the tourism sector, to build bridges among peoples, celebrate diversity, and nurture a culture of respect and inclusivity.”
The event brought together key partners and included the UN Flag Raising Ceremony, the Peace Pledge, and a unity gathering joined by UNAP, UNGC, SMHCC, and various delegates. During the ceremony, SMHCC President Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy received the UNA Presidential Medal and World Changers Award for her leadership in heritage preservation, sustainable tourism, and community empowerment.
Subheading: Distinguished Guests and Closing Fellowship
The gathering was attended by top executives of Taal Vista Hotel and SMHCC. Present were Ms. Cathy Nepomuceno, Ms. Agnes Pacis, Ms. Leah Magallanes, Ms. Nian Rigor, Ms. Brenda Cabuyao, and Ms. Mary Rose Lomibao. Diplomats, business leaders, educators, and peace advocates also attended. Guests included Mr. Shah Md. Ashraful Alam Mohon of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, UNESCO representative Dr. Ethel Agnes Valenzuela, Carlos P Romulo Awardee Dr. Margarita Bellesteros, and peace advocates from Marawi City.
The day concluded with fellowship cocktails with live music and warm conversations. Guests shared messages of gratitude and reflections on peace throughout the evening.
