Purpose-built Halal-compliant culinary operations position Mactan as a trusted host for international events

MACTAN, CEBU — As Cebu took the regional spotlight for the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown and Mercure Mactan Cebu highlighted the destination’s capability to deliver dining experiences prepared in accordance with Halal food standards and protocols. With more than 1,500 international delegates, the partner hotels hosted a Halal-friendly opening dinner during the ATF Opening Ceremony at the Liberty Shrine last January 28, 2026—marking a milestone moment for Cebu as it demonstrated inclusive, globally attuned hospitality on one of Southeast Asia’s most influential tourism platforms.

Now on its 45th edition, the ATF brought together ASEAN Tourism Ministers, national tourism organizations, industry leaders, and international media to strengthen the region’s position as a unified tourism destination. Hosting the forum in Mactan places Cebu in the spotlight as a gateway for regional cooperation and cultural exchange.

For the opening dinner, delegates enjoyed an exclusively Halal-friendly menu that allows them to experience Cebuano and regional flavors while observing Halal standards. Featured dishes include Latu and Guso Kinilaw, a local delicacy from Mactan; Nasi Katok from Brunei; Minangkabau Beef Rendang from Indonesia; and Tom Yum Goong from Thailand, alongside other regional specialties.

Avinash Menon, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ Cluster General Manager – Visayas, emphasized the strategic role of Halal-friendly hospitality in positioning Cebu as a globally inclusive destination:

“Trust is the foundation of our Muslim Friendly Program. Our Halal certification is independently verified, ensuring that from sourcing to preparation, every meal meets strict standards. But this is more than a certificate — it reflects our commitment to inclusive hospitality at a strategic level. In a destination celebrated for lechon, offering Halal dining demonstrates that Cebu can honor its heritage while welcoming a global audience. At Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, inclusivity isn’t just a policy; it’s the purpose of our hospitality. We want every guest to feel fully respected, seen, and at home.”

Josef Chiongbian, General Manager of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, also underscored the hotels’ readiness to showcase Cebuano hospitality during the opening dinner. 

“We have refined every touchpoint of the guest journey to ensure delegates encounter the authentic warmth and vibrant spirit of Cebu. Led by Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown Executive Chef Coke Semblante and Mercure Mactan Cebu Executive Chef Paolo Aviso, our team celebrates global inclusivity by serving a blend of local specialties and authentic international favorites. While guest experience is paramount, we have also made security a top priority, implementing strict protocols to guarantee a safe environment for all dignitaries and attendees,” Chongbian said.

Chiongbian added that the culinary team has developed an extensive range of Halal-compliant dishes integrated into daily offerings to provide inclusive options for every delegate. “Our team is committed to transcending standard hospitality to deliver an unforgettable forum that serves as a premier showcase for the very best of Cebu,” he said.

Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown and Mercure Mactan Cebu, part of the Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) portfolio, were recognized as 100% Muslim-friendly Accommodation Establishments by CrescentRating at the 2025 Travel Awards. Beyond its Halal kitchen, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown provides dedicated prayer rooms, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive hospitality. Further establishing Mactan as a premier hub for international MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), these properties will also play a key role as official partners when the region welcomes the 48th ASEAN Summit to the Mactan Expo in May 2026.

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About Megaworld Hotels & Resorts

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) is a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation under the Alliance Global Group Inc. The hotel chain is the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group recognized by the World Travel Awards and the country’s largest hotel operator with 13 hotels, 7 brands, and 8,500 room keys including the ones in the pipeline. Experience Filipino hospitality through its signature brand of service, the Sampaguita, across its brands including Savoy and Belmont in Boracay, Mactan Cebu, and Pasay. Richmonde hotels in Eastwood, Ortigas, and Iloilo. And Kingsford Hotel and Grand Westside Hotel in Paranaque and Hotel Lucky Chinatown Hotel in Binondo and in Twin Lakes Hotel in Batangas.