The anticipated post-renovation reopening has been delayed due to the decision to retain the 50-year-old structure, located along United Nations Avenue, Ermita, Manila, to save on costs.
The reconstruction required extensive reinforcements, slab replacements, and significant adjustments to the project scope, according to the operator.
“Despite these unforeseen challenges, the additional reinforcements are critical to ensuring the long-term safety and well-being of all building occupants, including both guests and employees,” Acesite (Phils.) Hotel Corp., the listed entity that operates Waterfront Manila Hotel and Casino, said in a stock exchange filing.
Reopening targets
The soft opening of the podium, including public areas such as the lobby, select food and beverage outlets, and the casino, will happen in the first quarter of 2026, Acesite said in its update to the stock exchange.
The hotel also aims to finish added guest amenities in the third quarter, to be followed by the full opening of hotel rooms and general amenities in the first quarter of 2027.
Acesite said these were target timelines, meaning these could change, as has happened in the past.
What happened in 2018?
Based on a news report, the Bureau of Fire Protection confirmed the March 18 fire at the 447-room Waterfront Manila, which claimed the lives of six Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. employees, was an accident due to faulty wiring.
The fire broke out on Sunday morning and was extinguished more than 24 hours later, by Monday morning.
Formerly Hilton Manila
Acesite, established on Oct. 10, 1952, began its hotel operations on March 15, 1968, with Hilton International managing its property at UN Avenue.
Management shifted to Holiday Inn Philippines Inc. in 1995 and continued until February 28, 2003.
On June 24, 2004, Waterfront Philippines Inc. acquired majority control, making the Manila Pavilion Hotel part of the Waterfront hotel chain, which includes properties in Cebu, Mactan, and Davao.
Miguel R. Camus has been a reporter covering various domestic business topics since 2009.
