This article was posted on September 22, 2025 on the Daily Tribune.
How can something so delicate be so profound? The Sampaguita, the Philippines’ national flower, is a humble white blossom that embodies simplicity, humility, purity and strength. Much like its scent which lingers, it symbolizes eternal love and commitment with values deeply rooted in Filipino culture.
The Sampaguita (Jasmin sambac) originated in the Eastern Himalayas. Through trade and cultural exchange, it eventually reached the Philippines. Its name, derived from the phrase, “sumpa kita” (I promise you), reflects how the Sampaguita was cherished for its beauty, simplicity and lingering scent. It was officially declared the country’s national flower in February 1934.
The Sampaguita embodies love, honor, dignity, and healing, the very values Filipinos hold dear and live by. From garlands that we often place on altars, statues of saints to symbolize devotion and reverence, to those used for greeting special guests and dignitaries to show respect and hospitality, this flower deserves a home to honor its heritage and celebrate its Filipino values.
A journey that lingers
Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ (MHR) meaningful journey with the Sampaguita flower started in July 2023 with the launch of the Sampaguita Project. This initiative integrates the flower into memorable details that shape their guests’ stay.
Guests will notice thoughtful details everywhere they look. For instance, the Cool Sampaguita scent, the hotel’s signature scent crafted by Dwellbeing, subtly perfumes the lounge and public restrooms. The experience continues in the restaurant, where a feast for both eyes and palate will treat diners as they incorporate real Sampaguita buds and petals into their signature dishes and drinks. Guests can also unwind with a relaxing massage using special sampaguita-infused oils. Each of these touches is part of the Sampaguita Project, designed to leave guests with a multisensory memory of their time in the Philippines.
A home that lingers
Recently, Megaworld Hotels and Resorts unveiled its first-ever Sampaguita Park in Southwoods City, Binan, Laguna. The project is a partnership with Global-Estate Resorts (GERI) and the Rotary Club of Binan, Laguna.
“Over the years, the Sampaguita has become more than just a symbol of our brand of service. It has taken a deeper role, evolving into a full-blown advocacy that has moved beyond hotel operations and the four walls of our properties. Today, it reflects our collective desire to give back, to honor our heritage, and to build something that can uplift communities in a lasting and tangible way,” Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, said.
Nearly 3,000 sampaguita seedlings will be planted in the park. These seedlings came from the “Petal to Purpose” Earth Hour campaign held last March, where MHR guests were given the opportunity to purchase and support the planting of seedlings.
Beyond being a cultural attraction, the 4,300 square meter park will also provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for local farmers with the help of Rotary Club of Binan, Laguna. These farmers will be tasked to maintain the park and produce handcrafted items from the harvested blooms.
Designed to educate, preserve heritage, support local communities, and showcase the beauty of the country’s national flower, the Sampaguita Park is set for completion by the second quarter of 2026.
Building on meaningful collaborations such as the Petals to Purpose Campaign, in partnership with Project PEARLS, the Sampaguita Park celebrates Filipino roots and brings people together. It is part of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts’ broader goal of helping communities grow and of realizing their dream to see more parks like this bloom across the country.
This article was posted on September 22, 2025 on the Manila Bulletin at: https://tribune.net.ph/2025/07/19/from-a-single-seedling-to-a-growing-purpose-with-megaworld-hotels
