"We are creating a new approach to the hotel business so that we can compete globally and still keep the Filipino touch of warmth and impeccable service," said Ricky Gutierrez, the concurrent chief executive officer of the Chateau 1771 Group and of Hotel Concepts, Inc., the owner and developer of Hotel Ponte Fino.
Although patterned after European boutique hotels, Hotel Ponte Fino is owned and operated entirely by Filipinos.
"There are not foreign expatriates here. It is a 100% Filipino group and, of course, talent. Even our systems are internally developed, based on our own research and experience," said Gutierrez.
Opened last September, the Batangas City-based hotel targets business travelers looking at either business opportunities in the industrial corridor south of Metro Manila or checking up on existing businesses located in nearby industrial or technology parks as well as local tourists from Metro Manila.
In terms of size, the hotel is made up of 40 premium rooms and 20 suites–the minimum number of rooms needed to be commercially viable–as well as two function rooms for parties and conferences. The smallest room comes with two single beds plus a sofa bed located in the living area while the biggest room, the Fino Suite, has a king-sized bed, and a separate living room and kitchen area.
"Our menu is carefully thought out, taking into consideration the native produce in the area and bringing the taste to a fine dining experience. There’s no pre-cooking here," said Gutierrez.
In the menu devised by main chef, Dennis Edillon, are adobo, using Batangas beef; crepes, using Batangas peanut brittle; and coffee, using Batangas barako beans.
In the work are the construction of separate structure to house the KTV room, a gym, and a luxury spa.
"Hotel Ponte Fino is the start of the realization of a dream to highlight the Filipinos’ various talent and graciousness. There’s still much to do," said Gutierrez.