SMHCC Weaves Sustainability and Community Empowerment with ‘Tela Tales’

What happens when old hotel linens get a second life?

For SM Hotels and Convention Centers (SMHCC), the answer is both creative and impactful. Through its sustainability initiative called Tela Tales, the company has transformed over 10,000 yards of discarded sheets, towels, and banquet cloths into purposeful products that benefit communities while protecting the planet.

Introduced in 2024, Tela Tales proves that even simple fabric can spark change. Instead of sending linens to landfills, SMHCC partners with women from communities in Tagaytay, Nasugbu, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Quezon City to handcraft bags, home accessories, and plush toys. Each creation carries a unique story—like the Snuggle Mates line designed with Brave Story, a social enterprise brand. These soft toys represent animal characters inspired by SMHCC hotels and resorts, from Bamboo the panda of Lanson Place Mall of Asia to Pau the turtle of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo.

Behind every product are 55 women volunteers who gain both livelihood and empowerment. The program has already produced over 1,000 items, providing income opportunities and community pride. Local governments, particularly in Iloilo and Bacolod, have recognized the initiative for its dual role in reducing waste and building partnerships.

For SMHCC, sustainability is not just an operational practice but a shared journey. By extending the life of its linens, the company cuts disposal costs, fosters employee involvement, and strengthens ties with communities. More importantly, it aligns with global goals such as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 17 on partnerships.

With plans to expand Tela Tales to more locations and introduce travel-friendly product lines, SMHCC is showing how the hospitality industry can stitch together environmental responsibility, social impact, and meaningful stories—one fabric at a time.