Century Group forays into hotel business

MANILA, Philippines — Century Properties Group Inc. (CPGI)  is making its foray into the hospitality business with the opening of Novotel Suites Manila at Acqua in Mandaluyong City this month.

CPGI president and CEO Marco Antonio said the opening of the hotel comes at a good time, now that movement restrictions are easing amid the government’s continued push for tourism.

“December is an opportune time for Novotel Suites Manila to open as Century Properties can actively participate and address the demand surge for tourism and leisure travel, which is also in line with the government’s thrust to promote the industry,” Antonio said.

Novotel Suites Manila general manager Raul Aquino said they are excited to welcome tourists, residents and their guests at Acqua Private Residences on Dec. 15 when the hotel opens.

The hotel is accessible via Makati and Mandaluyong cities, mainly via the Estrella-Pantaleon and Makati-Mandaluyong bridges that cross the Pasig River.

CPGI is banking on the recovery of the tourism sector for its hospitality venture.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) expects the domestic travel sector to recover this year, at the earliest when demand returns to 90 percent of the 2019 level, and by 2024 at the latest.

The DOT is focusing on the recovery of the tourism sector through the promotion of domestic travel, with many overseas source markets still closed.

Novotel Suites Manila marks the first hospitality venture for CPGI, a company historically known for its high rise condominiums.

Conceptualized in partnership with hotel powerhouse Accor and wholly operated by CPGI, the hotel is housed in the sixth and final tower of Acqua Private Residences.

“We are proud to carry the Novotel name, along with other 500 establishments globally. It’s a trusted brand, known for excellent rooms and service. It’s our pleasure to work with Accor,” Antonio said.

The 152-room mid-scale hotel is owned by CPG and its subsidiary Century Acqua Lifestyle Corp., which handles CPG’s fractional ownership business.

Rooms range from 32 to 87 square meters. Amenities include a pool, a restaurant and bar, a lounge cafe, a pastry shop, and a fitness center once the hotel opens.  Meeting rooms are also available for small-scale business events.

CPGI also earlier forayed into affordable housing, through PHirst Park Homes, and premium low-density developments with Century Nuliv.