Savoy Hotel Boracay has earned a Halal certification, becoming one of the first resorts on the island to formally introduce Halal-certified dining — part of a broader effort to create a more inclusive experience for Muslim travelers.
“We’re seeing an emerging demand for this market that we want to be one of the firsts to introduce a Halal-certified dining in the island,” said Leopoldo Peteros Jr., learning and development manager at Savoy Hotel Boracay.
The certification is more than symbolic. It represents the property’s evolving approach to hospitality, aligning with the brand’s commitment to offer vibrant, inclusive experiences to a wide range of guests.
“Savoy is designed for guests looking for an island escape knowing that their needs and preferences are well taken care of,” Peteros said.
Since joining the hotel about eight months ago, Peteros said he has seen steady growth in Muslim clientele, primarily from South Asia, Mindanao and Indonesia. In response, the hotel expanded its menu to include certified Halal offerings and introduced Muslim-friendly spaces.
Savoy Hotel Boracay is the third Megaworld property to earn Halal certification. The process required significant operational changes, including the sourcing of Halal-certified ingredients and comprehensive staff training.
“The integration was challenging, particularly in sourcing ingredients and training staff, but it was necessary to ensure full compliance,” Peteros said.
The resort’s Halal initiative is part of a larger movement within Megaworld Hotels and Resorts.
“I’m truly proud that we’re part of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts — the first in the country to have all its properties certified by the Department of Tourism as Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments,” said Agnes Lachica Macapia, area director of sales and marketing for Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay. “It’s a milestone that reflects our collective effort to make hospitality more inclusive and meaningful.”
According to Macapia, the idea to offer Halal-certified cuisine stemmed from guest demand and a desire to create a welcoming environment for all.
“We made a thoughtful decision to offer Halal-certified Muslim cuisine because we’ve seen how Boracay continues to welcome a growing number of Muslim travelers,” she said. “The island has a vibrant Muslim community, a mosque and an increasing demand for Halal options — not just from international guests, but locals too. Not to mention that the island now enjoys a dedicated Muslim beach area, a first of its kind in the country.”
She added: “We want every guest who walks through our doors to feel welcome and well taken care of, and that includes ensuring their dietary preferences and beliefs are respected.”
Muslim-friendly hotel room. (SHARED PHOTO)
Macapia said the initiative was not simply about following trends.
“This move wasn’t just about following trends — it came from listening to our guests,” she said. “We noticed a real need and wanted to respond in a way that stays true to our core: personalized service, cultural sensitivity and creating memorable stays.”
One experience that stood out for her involved a Muslim family who shared how much the experience meant to them.
“This was the first time they were able to fully enjoy a vacation without having to worry about food options and enjoying the beach,” Macapia said. “Seeing that level of comfort and peace of mind — it really validates everything we’re working toward.”
Peteros added that feedback from Muslim travelers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the new dining options. Interestingly, non-Muslim guests have also embraced the Halal menu.
“Many are intrigued by the Muslim menu and are eager to try something new,” Macapia said. “It’s opened up great conversations and a deeper cultural appreciation.”
Beyond food, the resort has implemented several Muslim-friendly amenities. These include in-room Qibla indicators, prayer mats, and dedicated prayer rooms for men and women. At Boracay Newcoast, Muslim travelers also have access to a dedicated Muslim beach area — the first of its kind in the country.
“Our commitment to inclusivity goes beyond having a Halal-certified kitchen at Vienne Lobby Lounge,” Macapia said. “We’ve thoughtfully introduced a range of Muslim-friendly services to ensure our guests feel truly at home.”
She noted that delivering this level of service requires more than logistical preparation.
“I believe that respectful service begins with genuine understanding,” she said. “That’s why we started by providing comprehensive training sessions for our team, focused on cultural awareness and the specific needs of our Muslim guests.”
She added: “It’s been inspiring to see how our team embraced the training not just as a requirement, but as an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. Their commitment has truly elevated the guest experience at Savoy Hotel Boracay.”
Savoy plans to expand its Halal offerings further, with a focus on diversity in cuisine rather than centering on a single regional menu. The hotel is also in early discussions with other tourism partners about positioning Boracay as a Muslim-friendly destination — including hosting a Halal food festival.
Muslim-friendly beach. (SHARED PHOTO)
“We’re still in the early stages, but we’re hopeful that more hotels will follow, making Boracay more welcoming to Muslim tourists,” Peteros said.
While Boracay remains one of the top beach destinations in the Philippines, emerging competitors like Siargao, Palawan and Siquijor continue to draw travelers. Still, Savoy continues to update its services to align with shifting travel preferences, particularly in food and guest experience.
The hotel currently offers two seasonal promotions under Megaworld Hotels and Resorts: the Sleep-Stay Package and the Sampaguita Package. Events such as beach barbecues, poolside activities and happy hours further enhance the experience, although structured programming for children is not currently offered.
“Inclusive service means making everyone feel welcome, whether they are Muslim, non-Muslim or from any background,” Peteros said.
“At the heart of it, this is about hospitality that embraces diversity and connection,” Macapia added. “And for us at Savoy Hotel Boracay, that’s the kind of service we’re proud to offer every single day.”
