Savoy Hotel Manila Plants Sampaguita to Help Preserve Filipino Heritage

Sustainability initiative reaches two historic schools in Pasay City

Savoy Hotel Manila continues its commitment to sustainability and community engagement by bringing its Plant a Sampaguita advocacy to two of Pasay City’s oldest educational institutions, helping preserve a cherished symbol of Filipino culture for future generations.

On June 3, 2026, leaders and associates of Savoy Hotel Manila visited the Unang Paaralang Bayan ng Pasay and the Philippine School for the Deaf, both institutions with more than a century of history and service to the community.

The initiative forms part of the hotel’s efforts to propagate the Sampaguita, the Philippines’ national flower and a long-standing symbol of love, honor, dignity, and healing. As the flower becomes less visible in many communities, the project seeks to ensure its continued presence in public spaces and future generations.

First Stop: Unang Paaralang Bayan ng Pasay

The hotel team first visited the Unang Paaralang Bayan ng Pasay along P. Burgos Street, where they were welcomed by Principal Errol Ruiz. The school provided an elevated plant box where Sampaguita seedlings were planted as part of the advocacy.

During the visit, Principal Ruiz also shared the school’s role as an Alternative Learning System (ALS) Community Center, supporting underprivileged individuals who wish to complete their secondary education through government-backed programs.

Continuing the Advocacy at the Philippine School for the Deaf

The program continued at the Philippine School for the Deaf, another historic educational institution established in 1907. With the support of Principal Jordan Madronio, Savoy Hotel Manila installed another Sampaguita plant box and planted additional seedlings on the school’s grounds.

The activity further strengthened efforts to preserve and promote the country’s national flower while engaging younger generations in heritage appreciation.

Preserving More Than a Flower

According to Den Navarro, General Manager of Savoy Hotel Manila, the advocacy reflects the broader role of hospitality in community development and cultural preservation.

“We believe that hospitality extends beyond our hotel walls. 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,” Navarro said.

The initiative also included a courtesy visit to Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, who has been a strong advocate for heritage preservation and green tourism. The hotel team expressed gratitude for the mayor’s support in helping expand the propagation of Sampaguita throughout the city.

Part of a Larger Sustainability Program

The Plant a Sampaguita advocacy is part of the MEGreen Program of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, which promotes sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community development across its hotel properties.

Savoy Hotel Manila said the initiative demonstrates how environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and community partnerships can work together to create meaningful and lasting impact.

Why It Matters

As urban development continues to reshape Philippine cities, heritage preservation efforts often focus on buildings and landmarks. Initiatives such as Plant a Sampaguita highlight the importance of protecting cultural symbols that also form part of the country’s identity. By planting the national flower in schools and public spaces, organizations help ensure that future generations continue to recognize and appreciate a living piece of Filipino heritage.