Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), proudly announced the launch of Tela Tales Visayas in Iloilo and Bacolod City. This groundbreaking initiative aims to empower local communities and promote sustainable practices through the upcycling of discarded linens and fabrics from Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod as well as other SMHCC hotels and properties.
Tela Tales Iloilo, a pioneering project in partnership with the Homeless People’s Federation of the Philippines – Iloilo, is designed to empower local artisans and provide them with sustainable livelihood opportunities.
With its initial design in collaboration with renowned social entrepreneur Zarah Juan, the project offers training and mentorship to help the women of HPFPI create unique and sustainable products using upcycled linens. The finished products will be showcased and available for purchase at Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod, providing a platform for these talented artisans to showcase their work and generate income from the discarded linens.
In conjunction with the launch, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo hosted a special event featuring a sustainable six-course lunch prepared by their culinary team, led by Executive Sous Chef Diego Trillana.
The lunch showcased the hotel’s commitment to sustainable dining practices, emphasizing local sourcing, reduced meat consumption, and minimal waste.
The event also highlighted the hotel’s participation in SMHCC’s Sustainable Diner program, “Plate for the Planet.” This program demonstrates the company’s dedication to the circular economy by repurposing food waste into compost and producing locally grown vegetables, herbs, and fruits for use in the hotel’s culinary operations.
Tela Tales
Tela Tales is more than just a recycling program; it’s a story of transformation. Launched in partnership with renowned social entrepreneur Zarah Juan, this initiative breathes new life into condemned linens from SM hotel properties.
Inspired by the belief that “Transforming lives, one textile at a time,” Tela Tales creates a circular economy while uplifting communities. By empowering individuals with new skills, the program aims to improve socioeconomic conditions in areas surrounding SM hotels.
Used linens are given a second chance as they are transformed into stylish and sustainable products and bags. These fashionable accessories are not only eco-friendly but also provide a source of livelihood for women in the community.
SM Hotels and Conventions
SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) was established in 2008 to develop and manage SM Prime’s hotel and convention properties. SMHCC aims to be the Philippines’ leading hotel and convention company, offering Filipino warmth and hospitality. It plans to double its portfolio within five years and become a leading brand in the country’s tourism industry.
SMHCC is committed to sustainability and is actively implementing initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. Its thrust towards sustainability includes energy efficiency, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing.
SMHCC currently operates 10 hotels with 2,601 rooms and 8 SMX Convention Centers with over 38,000 square meters of leasable space.
About Leah Magallanes
Leah Magallanes brings over thirty years of dynamic expertise spanning food and beverage, strategic analysis, and sustainability to the forefront. Currently
serving as the Vice President for Sustainability and Quality Assurance at SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Leah has spearheaded impactful strategies, ensuring the alignment of long-term goals with a 10-year sustainability plan in line with UN-SDG objectives. With a multifaceted background Leah Magallanes adopts a holistic approach to shaping business models.
In her role, Leah has made significant contributions to various projects, including pre-opening hotels and the development of successful F&B concepts. Her achievements range from crafting comprehensive 5-year strategic plans for the multiple departments she heads to charting out 10-year sustainability roadmaps and fostering a robust food safety culture. As a certified working chef with experience in Michelin-starred restaurants, Leah’s educational foundation includes Business Management from De La Salle University and Restaurant Management from the prestigious New York Restaurant School in Manhattan.
Her commitment to sustainability extends beyond rhetoric, as Leah has championed institutional sustainability audits, employee engagement initiatives and the creation of SM Hotels and Convention Corporations’ circular economy program called the Blue Loop.
About Zarah Juan
Zarah Juan is a renowned Filipino designer and social entrepreneur whose work seamlessly blends creativity, sustainability, and social impact. With a passion for empowering communities and reducing waste, Juan has carved a niche for herself in the fashion industry.
One of Zarah Juan’s most notable collaborations is with SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC). Together, they launched the Tela Tales initiative, a groundbreaking project that transforms discarded hotel linens into beautiful and functional bags. By partnering with local communities, Tela Tales provides women with livelihood opportunities and empowers them to contribute to a more sustainable future.
About HPFPI – Iloilo
Homeless Peoples Federation Philippines Inc. (HPFPI) Iloilo is a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of the homeless population in the city. Their mission is to provide comprehensive services, including shelters, meals, counseling, skills training, and advocacy, to empower the homeless
community and help them regain their independence. The organization believes in providing individuals with the tools and resources they need to succeed, enabling them to lead fulfilling and self-sufficient lives.
For collaborations and product orders, contact: +63 33 500 0000 or email [email protected].
