SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation officially appoints Belgian national Sven Toune as General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel

July 2026, Manila – SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has appointed Sven Toune as General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel (TVH), ushering in a new chapter for the iconic 262-room heritage hotel overlooking Taal Lake and Volcano.

A Belgian national with more than 20 years of international hospitality experience, Toune has held senior roles across luxury resorts and global hotel brands in Southeast Asia. Over the past decade in the Philippines, he has built a strong track record in hotel operations, commercial strategy, and people-centered management.

The iconic façade of Taal Vista Hotel, the country’s second-oldest hotel, featuring 262 rooms and overlooking the scenic Taal Lake and Volcano.

Most recently, Toune served as General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Davao, the first Park Inn by Radisson property in the Philippines under SMHCC. During his tenure, he strengthened the hotel’s market position, elevated guest satisfaction, and cultivated strong partnerships with local communities and stakeholders. Fluent in Dutch, French, German, English, and Filipino, with conversational Bisaya, Toune is known for his ability to connect with guests, associates, and partners across cultures.

“I am honored to join Taal Vista Hotel and become part of a team with such a strong reputation for hospitality excellence,” said Toune. “Taal Vista Hotel is a beloved landmark with a rich heritage and a unique place in the hearts of many travelers. I look forward to working closely with our talented team to build on the hotel’s success, elevate the guest experience, and create meaningful opportunities for innovation, professional development, and sustainable growth.”

The Presidential Villa features a spacious 36.7 m² living area for relaxation and intimate gatherings, while the King Bedroom offers breathtaking views of Taal Lake.

A Food and Beverage specialist by training, Toune is recognized for cultivating high-performing teams and workplace cultures rooted in accountability, innovation, continuous learning, and respect. His people-first approach complements Taal Vista Hotel’s tradition of delivering heartfelt Filipino hospitality and world-class service.

“Sven’s appointment marks an important step in strengthening Taal Vista Hotel’s position as a premier heritage destination,” said SMHCC Executive Vice President Peggy Angeles. “His expertise and strategic vision will be instrumental in accelerating growth across the MICE and leisure travel segments, forging meaningful partnerships, and elevating the exceptional guest experiences that define our brand.”

Toune assumes the role at a pivotal time as Taal Vista Hotel continues to enrich its offerings, deepen guest engagement, and build on its legacy as one of the country’s most cherished hospitality landmarks. His appointment also reflects SMHCC’s commitment to building a future-ready hospitality portfolio, ensuring its roster of properties remains responsive to the evolving needs of today’s travelers while setting new benchmarks for hospitality excellence.

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About SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC)

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) is the hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings Inc.

Currently, the SMHCC portfolio is comprised of ten (10) hotel properties with a combined inventory of more than 2,600 rooms and over 42,000 sqm. of leasable convention space. The list of properties under SMHCC includes Taal Vista Hotel, Pico Sands Hotel, Conrad Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Radisson Blu Cebu, Park Inn by Radisson Clark, Park Inn by Radisson Davao, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod, and the SMX Convention Centers (SMX Manila, SMX Aura, SMX Bacolod, SMX Davao, Olongapo City Convention Center, SMX Clark) and trade halls (Megatrade Hall and Sky Hall Seaside Cebu).

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/ and follow us on Facebook.

About Taal Vista Hotel

As a cultural landmark in the heart of Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel remains committed to elevating its service and adapting to the evolving needs of its guests, all while preserving the warmth and friendliness that define its staff. As part of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), the hotel continues to uphold a legacy of excellence, heritage, and genuine Filipino hospitality.


Taal Vista Hotel is located along Kilometer 60, Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City 4120, Philippines. For inquiries and reservations, please call +63 (2) 7917 8225, +63 945 976 6841, or +63 917 809 1254. Stay connected by visiting www.taalvistahotel.com and following us on Facebook (facebook.com/taalvistahotel) and Twitter/Instagram (@taalvistahotel).