Timeless at 10, forever Novotel
MANILA, Philippines — A decade since it first graced Philippine shores, the inaugural Novotel property of Accor in the country stands as a luminous emblem of the group’s celebrated legacy of excellence.
Synonymous with global hospitality at its finest, Novotel has long been defined by its refined service philosophy, its award-winning pedigree, and its ability to craft contemporary spaces that speak to the sensibilities of today’s discerning traveler.
From the moment Novotel Manila Araneta City opened its doors in 2015, it reshaped the hospitality landscape of the City of Firsts. As Araneta City’s pioneering hotel, it emerged swiftly as a design-driven, service-forward landmark—ushering in a new era of cosmopolitan comfort for business and leisure guests alike.
A decade on, the property remains a vibrant cornerstone of Accor’s flourishing presence in the Philippines, a living chronicle of the brand’s continuous pursuit of innovation and cultural connection.
This year, Novotel Manila Araneta City celebrates its 10th anniversary—a momentous milestone that pays homage to its storied beginnings, its dynamic present, and the luminous chapters yet to unfold. Since welcoming its first guests from around the globe, the hotel has cultivated a reputation for warmth, style, and impeccable hospitality.
On November 17, the property marked its decade of distinction with a spectacular Blue-and-Gold Anniversary Gala at the Monet Grand Ballroom. The evening was a glittering celebration—elegant, spirited and unmistakably Novotel—reflecting both the brand’s refined sophistication and its steadfast vision for continued growth in the years ahead.
Setting the tone for the night was a showcase of world-class talent, beginning with a striking opening number that unveiled the celebration’s key visual, an artistic homage to Novotel Manila’s decade-long story. Followed by a 10-minute video story telling showcased through “My Novotel Story” marking a decade in the City of Firsts, Novotel Manila Araneta City celebrates a story that began with a bold vision.
What started as blueprints and construction plans soon rose into an architectural landmark, shaped by visionary leaders and brought to life by the hotel’s devoted Heartists. For 10 years, these dedicated individuals have been the soul of the property, welcoming guests with warmth, creating meaningful connections and filling every corner with memories that define its spirit.
Through shared triumphs, challenges and countless moments of camaraderie, Novotel Manila has become more than a hotel—it is a home built on passion and people. As it steps into its next chapter, the brand looks ahead with the same commitment that fueled its beginnings, celebrating a decade of stories and embracing the many more yet to unfold.
“They say the best stories are those shared with the people who matter—and tonight, surrounded by individuals who have walked this journey with us, we could not imagine a more fitting moment to look back. From our humble beginnings to our rise as a vibrant landmark in the heart of Araneta City, we have grown, learned and cherished every chapter along the way," said Maria-Manlulu Garcia, the first Filipina area general manager of Accor Philippines for the PME brands and cluster general manager of Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City.
"As the first Novotel in the Philippines, this hotel is more than a structure; it is a home built on passion, resilience and the countless memories we have created with all of you,” she added.
The celebration also paid tribute to another segment of the night to the Heartists whose exceptional dedication has helped shape Novotel Manila Araneta City into a leading force in the hospitality industry—nurturing homegrown talent that now shines on both local and international stages.
Adding to the evening’s splendor, the Araneta Hotels Inc. (AHI) Chorale, fresh from their victory at the Accor Choir Games 2024, set the tone with their award-winning performance, filling the ballroom with a stirring harmony befitting the milestone segment.
The 10th-anniversary celebration of Novotel Manila Araneta City beautifully traced the distinguished journey of Araneta Hotels Inc. in the Philippines, showcasing the brand’s profound integration into and enduring impact on the country’s hospitality landscape. Guests, impeccably dressed in their contemporary gala finest, were ushered into an evening of artistic splendor.
A captivating 13-piece live orchestra serenaded diners throughout the night, while an array of exquisite culinary creations—masterfully curated by the award-winning brigade under Director of Culinary Massimiliano Pauletto—set the stage for a truly memorable fête.
The evening also cast a well-deserved spotlight on the visionaries who have steered the hotel toward its decade of success. Xavier Cappelut, Accor’s vice president of operations for Vietnam, the Maldives and the Philippines, together with Rowell Recinto, board director and senior management consultant of the Araneta Group, delivered heartfelt tributes to the many individuals whose dedication and talent shaped Novotel Manila’s first ten years. Their messages resonated with pride in the milestones already achieved—and with an unmistakable excitement for the chapters yet to unfold.
A special tribute was likewise dedicated to a pioneering figure whose forward-thinking leadership has long propelled progress at the heart of Araneta City. Through his bold vision, the Philippines welcomed its very first Novotel—a defining milestone that elevated the nation’s hospitality landscape and set new standards for contemporary urban lodging. That visionary is none other than Jorge Araneta, chairman, CEO and president of the Araneta Group, whose legacy continues to inspire the city’s evolution.
In a heartfelt tribute to the partnerships that defined its first decade, Novotel Manila Araneta City honored the key stakeholders who have played an instrumental role in the hotel’s remarkable journey. The presentation of the ‘Forever Novotel’ Plaque of Appreciation to members of the AHI Board, recognizing their steadfast support and shared commitment to elevating global hospitality.
The hotel also celebrated its most loyal guests, alongside valued partners from the Quezon City government and local tourism offices. Further underscoring the strength of its network, the hotel paid homage to its top-performing corporate allies, including its leading Online Travel Agency partners as well as its Top 15 Corporate Accounts. Together, these partners represent a decade of trust, collaboration, and shared aspirations—foundations that will continue to guide Novotel Manila Araneta City into its next chapter.
Editor’s Note: This press release is sponsored by Novotel. It is published by the Advertising Content Team that is independent from our Editorial Newsroom.
