Ascott Celebrates 25 Years of Hospitality in the Philippines

Ascott Philippines just hit a major milestone — 25 years of bringing global hospitality to Filipino soil.

By Joy Evangelica Agoylo

What started with the opening of Somerset Millennium Makati in 2000 has grown into a portfolio of 17 properties across key cities, under five distinct brands: Ascott, Citadines, Somerset, Oakwood, and lyf. That’s 25 years of comfortable, stylish stays paired with a signature Filipino warmth that makes guests feel truly at home.

To celebrate, Ascott hosted a grand Filipino-themed Silver Jubilee at the National Museum of Natural History on June 16. The evening blended culture, cuisine, and celebration as guests in modern Filipinianas were treated to performances by the Philippine Ballet Theatre and Quartet Manila, followed by a candle-lighting ceremony that symbolized Ascott’s enduring presence in the country.

A specially curated menu highlighted elevated local flavors, with contributions from top chefs across various Ascott properties.

Ascott Philippines celebrated its Silver Jubilee Anniversary Event at the National Museum of Natural History on June 16
Guests joined in a symbolic gesture, placing 2,000 electronic candles along the iconic steps of the National Museum, a tribute to the year Ascott first illuminated its presence in the country with its very first property
Aerial view of the candle-lit steps of the National Museum

The evening also honored the people and partners who have shaped Ascott’s journey. Melesa “Elsie” Chua, owner of Somerset Millennium Makati (Ascott’s very first property in the Philippines) received the first Diamond Star Award of the night.

Other awardees included key property owners and long-time collaborators such as CDC Holdings Inc., CapitaLand Ascott Trust, Valero Prime Land, Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation, and many others whose partnership has played a vital role in Ascott’s success.

Recipients of the Diamond Star Award
Ascott Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Ms. Kar Ling Wong
Ascott Philippines Country General Manager Mr. Patrick Vaysse

Ascott Philippines is now setting its sights on the future. With new properties underway in Valero, Makati and Gorordo, Cebu, the company is on track to reach 30 properties and 6,000 keys by 2028. To keep the celebration going, Ascott also launched a special anniversary promo: the first 25 guests to complete five overnight stays across different Ascott brands, or five stays within one, will receive 25,000 Ascott Star Rewards points.

Ascott’s Diamond Star Award trophies

Beyond expansion, Ascott continues to build with purpose. Through its Ascott Cares program, the brand recently raised nearly PHP 300,000 for the Kabang Kalikasan ng Pilipinas Foundation by selling a collection of locally inspired plush characters. The campaign proved that even the smallest gestures, like a toy, can spark meaningful support for people and the planet.

From co-living spaces to luxury serviced residences, Ascott’s diverse lodging portfolio is designed for modern travelers and long-term guests alike. To learn more, visit www.discoverasr.com or follow @discoverasrphilippines on Instagram.

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