After its stellar Global Award run with Best Asian Historical Hotel, Best Classic Hotel, Best Destination Hotel remarks, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) as two of its most iconic properties, Taal Vista Hotel and Pico Sands Hotel, recently took center stage at the 2026 Haute Grandeur Global Awards.
These aren’t just your typical industry trophies; they are widely considered some of the highest honors in the hospitality world because they are based entirely on honest guest feedback rather than a panel of judges.
Securing a total of eight major accolades between them, these hotels have proven that they aren’t just local favorites—they are competing at a world-class level across Asia.
Taal Vista Hotel: A Legacy of Excellence in Tagaytay
For anyone who has ever visited Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it is a cultural landmark. It’s the kind of place that holds memories for generations of Filipino families.
Winning “Best Historical Hotel in Asia” is a massive achievement, highlighting how the property has managed to preserve its 1930s charm. All of these while offering all the modern comforts a traveler expects today.
General Manager Ramon Makilan noted that these awards are a tribute to the team’s passion. He explained that for Taal Vista, the goal is to honor the hotel’s heritage while constantly evolving.
It’s about keeping that classic, nostalgic vibe alive without feeling dated. A balancing act they clearly have mastered. Whether you’re there for a weekend getaway or a dream wedding overlooking the volcano. The hotel continues to set the gold standard for “timeless elegance.”
Pico Sands Hotel: The Ultimate Coastal Sanctuary
While Taal Vista offers mountain views and history, Pico Sands Hotel in Nasugbu, Batangas, is all about that modern, tropical escape. Tucked away within the lush greenery of Pico de Loro Cove. This property has become the go-to for people looking to swap the city’s concrete for coastal serenity.
Pico Sands also walked away with four major distinctions:
Best Scenic Environment Hotel in Asia
Best All-Inclusive Family Resort in the Philippines
Best All-Inclusive Family Hotel in the Philippines
Best Coastal Hotel in the Philippines
The “Best Scenic Environment” award speaks volumes about the hotel’s unique location. It is where the mountains literally meet the sea. It’s a favorite for nature lovers and families alike, offering a “sanctuary” that’s hard to find from Manila.
Maxi Gavino, the General Manager of Pico Sands Hotel, expressed how honored the team feels to be recognized on both a national and regional scale. According to Gavino, these awards aren’t just for show—they serve as inspiration to keep pushing the envelope. Enhancing their facilities, and creating those “core memory” moments for every guest who walks through their doors.
The Driving Force: SMHCC’s Vision
These wins aren’t just isolated success stories; they reflect the broader mission of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC). As the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc., SMHCC has built a massive portfolio.
This includes ten hotel properties and over 42,000 square meters of convention space.
Peggy Angeles, the Executive Vice President of SMHCC, pointed out that these achievements underscore the group’s commitment to “heartfelt Filipino hospitality.”
Whether it’s a high-end stay at Conrad Manila, a business trip at a Park Inn by Radisson, or a relaxing retreat at Pico Sands. the goal remains the same: delivering an exceptional, guest-centric experience.
Angeles views these awards as vital milestones. To her, the contrast between the “timeless elegance” of Taal Vista and the “vibrant, nature-focused” energy of Pico Sands shows the diversity of the SMHCC brand.
They aren’t just building hotels; they are creating diverse environments that cater to every type of traveler while maintaining a consistent standard of excellence.
Why the Haute Grandeur Awards Matter
In an industry full of various ranking systems, the Haute Grandeur Global Awards stand out because of their transparency. They don’t rely on public voting contests or hand-picked committees. Instead, they aggregate guest reviews and satisfaction ratings. When a hotel wins here, it means the people who actually paid for a room and stayed there were genuinely impressed.
For SMHCC, these eight awards are a “receipt” of sorts—proof that their investment in service, facilities, and staff training is paying off where it matters most: with the guests.
As the Philippine tourism industry continues to grow and evolve, properties like Taal Vista and Pico Sands are leading the charge, proving that Filipino hospitality isn’t just warm and friendly—it’s award-winningly world-class.
