A comfortable journey begins with knowing that the things that matter most are understood and respected. At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, this belief is reflected in its continuing efforts to create a welcoming environment for Muslim travelers through accommodations and dining options that cater to their specific needs. These initiatives have earned the hotel recognition as a Muslim-Friendly Establishment by the Department of Tourism (DOT), while its kitchen has received Halal certification from the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industries of the Philippines, Inc. (HICCIP), an organization accredited by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF).
As a DOT-Certified Muslim-Friendly Establishment, Richmonde provides essential prayer amenities, including Qibla directional markers, with prayer mats and copies of the Qur’an available upon request. Designated prayer areas for men and women, complete with ablution facilities, are also provided. To further ensure appropriate and respectful guest service, hotel associates undergo training in Muslim-friendly hospitality and tourism, equipping them with the knowledge to better understand and attend to the requirements of Muslim visitors.
Adding another dimension to these efforts, the hotel recently completed its Halal kitchen certification with HICCIP, marking a significant milestone in making dining more accessible and convenient for its Muslim clientele. The certification covers the kitchen’s compliance with Islamic law (Shariah) in the preparation and handling of food. Complementing this milestone is a selection of dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of Mindanao, allowing diners to discover the region’s distinctive flavors through specialties prepared in accordance with Halal requirements.
Leading this culinary showcase is Executive Sous Chef Rowell Manahan, who brings Mindanao’s rich food heritage to the table through traditional recipes and locally inspired preparations. Among the featured dishes are Riyandang, tender beef short ribs simmered in coconut milk, turmeric, ginger, and local spices; Piaparan a Odang, fresh shrimp cooked with grated coconut and an aromatic blend of spices; Piaparan a Manok, chicken simmered in a rich coconut-based sauce; and Inaloban a Isda, smoked fish prepared in a flavorful coconut milk broth infused with ginger and local aromatics. Another specialty is Pindang, beef short ribs served in a savory ginger broth with tomatoes and tamarind.
Rounding out the selection are two traditional sweet treats: Putli Mandi, delicate rice flour dumplings with sweetened coconut served in coconut milk sauce, and Dudol, a native delicacy made from glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, and muscovado. Together, these regional favorites offer a flavorful introduction to Mindanao’s culinary heritage in the heart of Ortigas Center.
“Through this menu, we hope to introduce our guests to the distinctive flavors of Mindanao and the culinary traditions behind each dish. Every recipe is an opportunity to share a part of the region’s food heritage while giving our diners a satisfying meal prepared in accordance with Halal standards,” shares Executive Sous Chef Rowell Manahan.
For F&B Manager Ria Rosal, providing a welcoming dining environment also means offering greater variety and flexibility. “We are pleased to give our Muslim guests more choices through this selection. Whether they prefer to dine at the restaurant or enjoy their meals in the privacy of their rooms, we want them to have access to flavorful dishes in a relaxed and accommodating setting. It is our way of making their dining experience with us even more enjoyable.”
Beyond its culinary offerings, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas extends its Muslim-friendly hospitality to the overall stay through its Muslim-Friendly Stay Package. This specially designed accommodation offer comes with prayer essentials, PhP 1,000 worth of dining credits for the Halal menu at Richmonde Café, a 20% discount on additional food orders at the restaurant, and a 10% discount on massage services. These added privileges allow guests to enjoy greater value while having their religious practices and personal preferences considered throughout their visit.
According to General Manager Oliver Esguerra, “At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, we believe that genuine hospitality begins with understanding and respecting the individual needs of every guest. Our efforts to provide Muslim-friendly accommodations, dining options, and services reflect our commitment to making Muslim travelers feel welcomed, respected, and well cared for throughout their stay. We recognize that there is more to providing a comfortable hotel experience than simply meeting basic requirements; it is about creating an environment where guests can observe their faith and enjoy their time with us with ease and confidence. We will continue to strengthen these initiatives and uphold the standards that allow us to serve our Muslim guests with sincerity, respect, and the warmth of Filipino hospitality.”
Whether visiting Ortigas Center for business or leisure, Muslim travelers can look forward to a hotel experience that takes their needs into consideration, from dedicated prayer amenities and Halal-certified dining to accommodations designed to make their stay more convenient and enjoyable.
The Muslim-friendly dining selection is available daily at Richmonde Café and through in-room dining. For inquiries and table reservations, call (632) 8638 7777 or +63 917 534 4352. For room reservations and inquiries about the Muslim-Friendly Stay Package, contact +63 917 859 7914, stay@richmondeortigas.com, or visit www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph.