Waterfront Philippines, operator of one of the top Filipino-owned hotel chains, aims to complete the long-awaited reconstruction of the Waterfront Manila Hotel & Casino by 2025, with a grand reopening of the venue to take place by the end of the same year. After facing numerous delays, this ambitious project is advancing to see its first phase completed by the final quarter (Q4) of 2024, marking a significant milestone in restoring this iconic destination in Manila. The timeline has been confirmed by Acesite (Phils.) Hotel Corporation, a subsidiary of Waterfront Philippines.

The first phase of the project encompasses public areas at the resort, such as the lobby, multiple food and beverage outlets, and the casino area that will extend from the ground floor to the third floor.

Emphasizing its commitment towards the project, Acesite said that it would focus its resources on the rebuilding and refurbishment of the podium and the hotel building. The second and third phases of the project are expected to complete by the second and fourth quarters of next year. Thus, the company expects the overall completion of the project by 31st of December, 2025. The latter phases of the ambitious project will be funded by bank borrowings and cash flows that will be generated by the operations of the first phase.

The property in question was formerly called Manila Pavilion Hotel, which was located at the turning of United Nations Avenue and Maria Orosa Street in Ermita, a popular tourist destination in Manila. The hotel operations were halted in March of 2018, when the podium and hotel building suffered severe damages due to a devastating blaze that was caused by faulty electrical wiring. The tragedy had left half a dozen PAGCOR employees dead.

Initially, Waterfront Philippines Inc. had plans to launch the first phase of the project in the first quarter of 2022, but it was repeatedly delayed. The reconstruction project was also delayed by multiple factors, including the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

The near completion of the Waterfront Manila Hotel & Casino reconstruction symbolizes a transformation for Manila’s hospitality sector. In spite of numerous setbacks and delays, Waterfront Philippines Inc. remains resolute in its dedication and commitment to revitalize this landmark, enhancing the guest experience and boosting the local economy.