PLANTING SAMPAGUITA, PRESERVING FILIPINO HERITAGE
As part of its continuing commitment to sustainability and community engagement, Savoy Hotel Manila recently brought its Plant a Sampaguita advocacy to two of Pasay City’s most treasured heritage institutions, helping preserve a beloved symbol of Filipino culture for future generations.
Last June 3, 2026, the leaders and associates of Savoy Hotel Manila embarked on a meaningful journey to the Unang Paaralang Bayan ng Pasay and the Philippine School for the Deaf, both historic institutions with more than a century of history and service to the community.
The first stop was the Unang Paaralang Bayan ng Pasay along P. Burgos Street, where the team was warmly welcomed by Principal Errol Ruiz. The school generously provided an elevated plant box where Sampaguita seedlings were planted. During the visit, Principal Ruiz also shared the institution’s inspiring role as an Alternative Learning System (ALS) Community Center, helping underprivileged individuals complete their high school education through government-supported programs.
The advocacy continued at the Philippine School for the Deaf, another historic institution established in 1907. With the support of Principal Jordan Madronio, Savoy Hotel Manila installed another Sampaguita plant box on the school’s beautifully maintained grounds and planted a new set of seedlings, further strengthening efforts to propagate the country’s national flower.
Both schools embraced the advocacy, recognizing the importance of preserving the Sampaguita, a flower long cherished as a symbol of love, honor, dignity, and healing. As its presence gradually diminishes in many communities, initiatives such as Plant a Sampaguita help ensure that this treasured part of Filipino heritage continues to flourish.
“We believe that hospitality extends beyond our hotel walls,” shared Den Navarro, General Manager of Savoy Hotel Manila. “Just as we care for our Guests, we also have a responsibility to care for our communities, our environment, and the heritage that defines us as Filipinos. Through initiatives such as Plant a Sampaguita, we hope to create a lasting impact that future generations can continue to enjoy and appreciate.”
The day became even more memorable with a courtesy visit to Emi Calixto-Rubiano, a strong advocate of green tourism and heritage preservation. The hotel team was honored to share the advocacy with the Mayor and grateful for her encouragement and support in helping propagate the Sampaguita throughout Pasay City.
The Plant a Sampaguita initiative forms part of the MEGreen Program of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, which champions sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community development across its properties.
Savoy Hotel Manila extends its sincere appreciation to the Office of the Mayor, the Pasay City Tourism and Cultural Development Office, Principal Errol Ruiz and the administration of the Unang Paaralang Bayan ng Pasay, as well as Principal Jordan Madronio and the Philippine School for the Deaf, for their invaluable support in making this meaningful initiative possible.
Together, these efforts plant more than flowers—they cultivate pride in Filipino heritage, strengthen community partnerships, and inspire future generations to protect and celebrate the symbols that make the Philippines truly unique.
