Ayala to spend $500M to double hotel, resort room inventory as PH tourism booms

Ayala Land Hospitality (ALH) — the revitalized hotel and resorts unit of the country’s oldest conglomerate — is making a significant push into the hospitality sector, announcing a $500-million investment over the next five years as part of its brand relaunch.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, Ayala Land Inc. senior vice president Mariana Zobel de Ayala said this initiative underscores the company’s confidence in the Philippine tourism industry, which is poised for growth with the government’s goal of attracting 12 million foreign visitors by 2028.

As part of this expansion, ALH aims to double its hotel room inventory to 7,500 by 2030.

The company is consolidating its portfolio, which includes homegrown brands like Seda Hotels, El Nido Resorts, and Huni Lio, alongside international names such as Raffles Makati, Fairmont Makati, and the upcoming Mandarin Oriental Makati.

AyalaLand Hospitality's Big Three. Left to right, chief creative officer Paloma Urquijo, CEO George Aquino, and Ayala Land senior vice president Mariana Zobel de Ayala./Contributed photo

“As we chart a bold new course in hospitality, our vision is clear: elevate Filipino hospitality to the world stage,” said ALH CEO George Aquino. “This means curating experiences that go beyond service—creating real connections between guests, places, and culture.”

A portion of the investment will go toward modernizing flagship properties, enhancing Seda’s business hotels, upgrading El Nido Resorts, and refining guest experiences with a strong sense of place. Additionally, ALH plans to integrate new hotels into Ayala Land’s expansive estates nationwide, embedding hospitality into thriving urban developments and natural landscapes.

Video showing the rebrand and relaunch of Ayala Land's hospitality arm, featuring its hotel and resort properties. The country's oldest conglomerate will invest $500 million to double its room inventory over the next five years./Video from Ayala Land

The relaunch also emphasizes the role of design in defining ALH’s brand identity.

Chief creative officer Paloma Urquijo highlighted the importance of incorporating Filipino artistry into each property.

“We believe in crafting unforgettable stays that celebrate both place and experience. Each property will showcase meaningful design brought to life by Filipino artistry and craftsmanship. We want guests to feel inspired, connected, and truly at home,” she said.

Ayala Land video showing its new facilities at its Lagen Island resort in El Nido, where average room prices stand at $1,500 a night./Video from Ayala Land

With travelers increasingly seeking immersive and culturally rich experiences, ALH said its revitalized thrust into hospitality positions it as a major player in shaping the future of Philippine tourism. 

Company officials said the firm’s renewed focus on storytelling, sustainability, and local craftsmanship reflects a broader industry shift toward experiential and responsible travel.

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