The series of announcements at this year’s Mingle with Ascott includes new developments, this year’s campaign theme, and more
The Ascott Limited Philippines, a globally recognized leader in serviced residences and hospitality, unveiled its bold strategic roadmap for 2026 at the annual Mingle with Ascott event on Feb. 26 at Centro De Turismo, Intramuros.
More than a gathering, Mingle with Ascott has become the brand’s signature platform to connect with corporate partners, media, and Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) members. It is here that Ascott Philippines shares portfolio updates, unveils new initiatives, and reinforces its vision for the future of hospitality in the country.
This year’s highlight was the launch of the new campaign theme, “At the Confluence.” Inspired by the Philippines’ role as a meeting point of cultures, the theme reflects Ascott’s identity as a brand where diverse people, stories, and experiences merge — creating a vibrant space where worlds meet and journeys begin.
The campaign theme came to life with a touch of nautical elegance at the 2026 Mingle with Ascott. Drawing inspiration from the porcelain treasures of the San Diego shipwreck — a 17th-century merchant vessel later transformed into a Spanish flagship — the venue was reimagined with modernized line art depicting iconic Filipino scenes, cultural landmarks, and Ascott properties.
Centro De Turismo’s own storied past, rooted in the San Ignacio Church’s neoclassical design, provided a fitting backdrop for the evening. Guests savored canapés and cocktails curated by the culinary team of Citadines Bay City Manila, while Quartet Manila set the tone with live music. Adding a cultural flourish, a Baybayin calligrapher engaged attendees in interactive artistry, complemented by bespoke cocktails co-created with Destileria Limtuaco and offerings from Philippine Airlines.
Beyond the evening’s elegance, the highlight was Ascott Philippines’ unveiling of its 2026 development roadmap. Guests were introduced to a series of exciting openings and transformations that signal the brand’s continued growth across the country:
- Somerset Valero Makati — Designed with comfort, mindfulness, and sustainability in mind, the newest Somerset property in Makati is now on soft opening, and is positioned close to every need. There are several major malls within a one-km radius, and not too far away are Rockwell Center and Poblacion, where one can enjoy whimsical cafès during the day and explore bars, clubs, and speakeasies at night to experience its vibrant nightlife. A few minutes’ drive away is Bonifacio Global City, an integral hub for trade, lifestyle, and entertainment. The property is also just 8km away from Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and approximately a 20-minute drive through the Skyway.
- Reopening of Joy~Nostalg Hotel and Suites as Ascott Ortigas Manila — Joy~Nostalg Hotel and Suites began its transformation in mid-January. When it reopens by the fourth quarter of the year, it will be known as Ascott Ortigas Manila. The planned transformation allows for the thoughtful refresh of rooms, public spaces, and food and beverage offerings — enhancing every detail to deliver an even more refined and elevated guest experience.
- Somerset Gorordo Cebu — Close to Cebu Business Park, the 155-unit Somerset Gorordo Cebu is set to open in the second half of the year. It will be Ascott’s second serviced residence in the city after Citadines Cebu City. Guests at Somerset Gorordo Cebu can choose from studios, one-bedroom or dual-key two-bedroom apartments. Facilities include a swimming pool, gymnasium, function rooms, as well as a residents’ lounge.
- Oakwood IT Park Grand Gateway Cebu — Ascott Philippines further expands its portfolio with the first Oakwood property outside Metro Manila. Developed in partnership with Grand Land, part of the esteemed Gaisano Grand Group of Companies, the Oakwood IT Park Grand Gateway Cebu is set to become the largest property under Ascott’s management in the Philippines. It will feature 400 well-appointed rooms, modern upscale amenities, and a variety of customizable function spaces to meet the evolving needs of Cebu’s vibrant MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market.
- Groundbreaking of Balai Dajao by Preference Hotels and Citadines Paragon Davao — The forthcoming retreat in Siargao is the pioneering project of Preference Hotels with Ascott Limited Philippines. Set to open in 2028 following its groundbreaking ceremony, Balai Dajao will introduce 60 suites and villas, designed to offer a fresh take on luxury living, celebrating both comfort and culture. Citadines Paragon Davao, the Ascott Limited’s first upcoming property in dynamic Davao City, will also help define presence in the growing Mindanao region.
Beyond property developments, Ascott Philippines also unveiled its refreshed roster of food and beverage outlets, underscoring its commitment to lifestyle-driven hospitality. At Ascott Bonifacio Global City, guests can now enjoy Scott’s, Scott’s Corner, and the Al Fresco Pool Bar. Citadines Bay City Manila highlights the scenic Bay City Café, while Citadines Amigo Iloilo presents the Bugsay Pool Bar. Meanwhile, Citadines Roces Quezon City elevates dining in Metro Manila’s largest city with Alejo Restaurant and Bar alongside Aqua at 8th, and Citadines Bacolod City shines with a diverse lineup including Pureza Lobby Lounge, Fuego Bar + Lounge, Namit, Tam-is, and Adlao Pool Bar. Then, Somerset Alabang Manila is set to debut The Veranda and Soluna this year. Adding to the excitement, Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) members were given even more reason to celebrate: exclusive discounts of up to 20% across all F&B outlets nationwide, valid for all membership tiers and applicable to buffets, à la carte menus, and non-alcoholic beverages. This initiative reinforces Ascott’s promise of value, community, and elevated guest experiences.
More than the announcements, Mingle with Ascott 2026 was a celebration of culture, creativity, and community. Guests indulged in an exquisite spread prepared by the culinary team of Citadines Bay City Manila, led by Executive Sous Chef Teddy Castro, whose canapés beautifully reflected the confluence of local flavors and global inspiration. Refreshing cocktails, co-created by mixologists from Ascott Bonifacio Global City and the bar masters of Destileria Limtuaco, added a spirited touch to the evening. Artist Taipan Lucero engaged attendees with a live Baybayin calligraphy session, while raffle prizes — including accommodation vouchers and round-trip flights courtesy of Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay Miles — brought excitement and joy. To close the celebration on a sweet note, Citadines Roces Quezon City delighted guests with artisanal chocolate pralines, given as thoughtful giveaways that symbolized the diversity and harmony across Ascott’s brand portfolio.
The team of Citadines Quezon City also prepared an assortment of delectable pastries for the “2026 Mingle with Ascott” event. Served were baked delicacies in different shapes, colors, and flavors, representing the diversity of Ascott brands — each one unique yet unified in delivering a distinguished brand of hospitality.
To celebrate the launch of Ascott Philippines’ “At the Confluence” campaign for 2026, guests were introduced to a special year-long accommodation discount, further reinforcing the tagline “Where worlds meet, journeys begin.”
Islands and Cities
One Country. Two Worlds. Endless Stories
Up to 50% Off on your next adventure with Ascott
Ascott Philippines invites travelers to experience the nation’s beautiful duality — its dynamic urban centers and its tranquil island escapes. With exclusive rates for members, Ascott encourages guests to discover the cosmopolitan energy of Manila alongside the cultural richness of Cebu, Iloilo, and Bacolod. Each destination offers a distinct world, yet all belong to one country, united under Ascott’s vision of boundless journeys and shared stories.
Booking Period: Feb. 27-March 7 only
Valid for stays until Feb. 27, 2027
Promo Code: ISLANDSCITIES26
Book your stay via:
Website: https://www.discoverasr.com/en/offers/islands-and-cities
Telephone: +63 8550-3200
Email: enquiry.philippines@the-ascott.com
DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-250034 Series of 2026.
Enjoy an Ascott experience at a special price at Ascott Bonifacio Global City and Ascott Makati. Meanwhile, Citadines developments that offer promo rates include Citadines Amigo Iloilo, Citadines Bacolod City Studio, Citadines Bay City Manila, Citadines Benavidez Makati, Citadines Cebu City, Citadines Roces Quezon City, and Citadines Salcedo Makati. To indulge in Somerset’s family-friendly living, book a residence at Somerset Alabang Manila, Somerset Central Salcedo Makati, Somerset Valero Makati, and Somerset Millennium Makati. Lastly, enjoy lyf at lyf Cebu City and lyf Malate Manila.
Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.
Join us on Viber at https://bit.ly/3hv6bLA to get more updates and subscribe to BusinessWorld’s titles and get exclusive content through www.bworld-x.com.
