Showcasing Olango Island craftsmanship and community-led design

MANILA, Philippines — Every year, Ascott Makati unveils a themed suite designed to immerse guests in art, culture and refined living—all within the comfort of their own accommodations.

This initiative forms part of Ascott’s global campaign, Savor the Art of Living, which celebrates curated lifestyle experiences across its properties worldwide. Most recently, the five-star serviced residence introduced its latest themed suite in collaboration with Cebu brand, Casa Selma.

“For 2026, one of our themes is confluence—where places, people and cultures come together,” shared Cecille Teodoro, area general manager of Ascott Makati.

“We wanted the experience to reflect the beauty of Filipino culture alongside Ascott Makati’s signature hospitality. One of our team members suggested Casa Selma, a world-class local brand widely recognized for its innovative furniture designs and its commitment to Filipino craftsmanship. When we approached them with the idea, they immediately came on board for the collaboration.”

Founded by Vito Selma and CEO Isabella Selma-Galarza, Casa Selma is a team of creatives that produces a wide range of items shaped by thoughtful craftsmanship, careful curation and meaningful collaboration.

For the partnership, the team transformed one of Ascott Makati’s two-bedroom executive suites into a space filled with handcrafted furniture and accessories inspired by and created in collaboration with the artisans of Olango Island, a community that Casa Selma has supported through sustainable livelihood initiatives.

The living room features the Alvaro lounge chair, Isla Coffee Table, Don Burgos and Don Paulino end tables, and Sarok floor lamp.

“Ascott Makati and Casa Selma have so many similar values in common, like sustainability, community and, of course, our love for everything Filipino. We wanted to create a suite that is shaped by the hands and stories of the communities of Olango Island. It really gives it more meaning and gives the suite more life,” shared Galarza.

One notable aspect of the collaboration is the story behind Casa Selma’s pieces. The lifestyle brand has been supporting the communities of Olango Island through the Payaw Project.

Payaw are fish-aggregating devices or floating structures made of bamboo poles and coconut fronds. The project provides fishermen with sustainable technology that discourages dynamite fishing and helps protect the marine environment while creating a more stable source of food and livelihood for the community.

On the island, Casa Selma also met shell crafters, mostly women and partners of the fisherfolk, who are highly skilled in creating beautiful pieces from raw shells. Their works have become part of some of Casa Selma’s most sought-after pieces. With every purchase from Casa Selma, 5% of the profits go toward encouraging sustainable coastal fishing.