Sheraton Cebu targets local tourists with day use offers

CEBU, Philippines — Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort is capitalizing on the resurgence of domestic and regional travel with the launch of its new Sheraton Day Experience packages, a suite of leisure offerings designed to strengthen the resort’s position as a premier short-stay destination in the central Philippines.

The Marriott-operated property, situated in the increasingly competitive Punta Engaño peninsula, in Lapu-Lapu City, is rolling out three curated daycation tiers aimed at affluent local and regional tourists seeking a luxury escape without overnight commitments.

Running from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the 2025 packages are seen as a strategic move to expand market reach, particularly among wellness-driven, urban professionals and families.

Sheraton Cebu’s General Manager Dottie V. Wurgler-Cronin emphasized the initiative’s alignment with evolving travel preferences toward flexible, experience-led stays.

Priced at P2,500 net per adult, the “Experience Sheraton” tier offers access to the resort’s beachfront and infinity pool facilities, P1,500 in dining credits at the Pool Bar, and a 15 percent discount on non-motorized watersports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

Aimed at early risers, the “Experience Breakfast” package (P3,000 net) includes a premium buffet breakfast at the 5 Cien restaurant, followed by full-day access to pool and beach amenities, with similar recreational discounts.

Meanwhile, the “Experience Wellness” package, priced at P6,000 net per person, anchors the resort’s health-focused offerings with a 60-minute signature massage at the Sheraton Spa, combined with leisure access and dining credits.

Children can access these packages at 50 percent of adult rates, with adjusted inclusions, reinforcing the resort's family-oriented positioning.

The AppleOne Properties developed resort, is also leveraging its food and beverage operations to enhance weekend occupancy and capture a greater share of Cebu’s domestic travel market.

Its “Tacos & Chelas” activation at DIP Nikkei on Fridays and Saturdays invites guests to craft their own tacos with a range of proteins and toppings, set against a beachfront backdrop. The offering is paired with discounted Mexican and Japanese beers—Corona and Sapporo—available at 20 percent off.

Further elevating its culinary narrative, the resort’s “Cien de Cebu,” buffet at 5 Cien celebrates local gastronomy with an array of iconic dishes, including crispy lechon, kakanin, and a “SuTuKil” station. The Friday night dining experience captures both heritage and street food culture, aligning with growing consumer demand for localized, experiential dining.

Positioning for Post-Pandemic Tourism Trends

As the Philippines’ hospitality sector rebounds, properties such as Sheraton Cebu Mactan are increasingly recalibrating their service models to appeal to hybrid travelers—those combining leisure with work and wellness.

The day-use strategy allows the resort to monetize underutilized weekday capacity while cultivating new market segments.

Marriott Bonvoy members are also being incentivized through exclusive discounts across the resort’s bars and restaurants, a move consistent with global loyalty program integration strategies aimed at increasing per capita spend.

Sheraton Cebu Mactan’s reservations team confirmed that bookings for Day Experience packages are subject to availability, reinforcing the importance of advance planning for summer 2025.

With Cebu’s tourism recovery gaining momentum and regional travel corridors reopening, Sheraton Cebu Mactan is positioning itself not only as a holiday destination, but as a lifestyle hub where premium experiences and local culture converge. — (FREEMAN)