Novotel Manila Araneta City, the Philippines’ first Novotel property, celebrated a decade of hospitality excellence with its “Timeless at 10” anniversary gala, underscoring its role as a pioneer in the country’s midscale hotel segment. The milestone brought together top hotel executives, Araneta City Inc. representatives, and local government officials in recognition of the hotel’s contribution to both the local tourism industry and the business community.
Key industry leaders in attendance included Bernd Schneider, the pioneering General Manager of Novotel Manila and current Cluster General Manager of Raffles & Fairmont Makati; Xavier Cappelut, Vice President of Operations for Accor in Vietnam, Maldives, and the Philippines; Joy De Mesa, Hotel Manager of Novotel Manila Araneta City; and Maria Manlulu-Garcia, Area General Manager for Accor’s Premium, Midscale, and Economy Brands in the Philippines and Cluster General Manager for Novotel & ibis Styles Manila Araneta City. Araneta Group Board Directors Rowell Recinto and John Peter Chick Castelo also attended, along with Quezon City District 3 Councilor Wency Lagumbay and Ivanovich Dmitri Tan Agote, OIC–Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Tourism – National Capital Region.
Reflecting on the hotel’s decade-long journey, Maria Manlulu-Garcia highlighted the property’s significance in shaping the Philippine hospitality landscape, “Over the past 10 years, Novotel Manila has been more than a hotel—it has been a hub for business, tourism, and memorable experiences. Our commitment to service, innovation, and community engagement continues to drive our growth and shape the midscale segment in the Philippines.”
The gala also featured remarks from Xavier Cappelut, who commended the hotel’s consistency and resilience in navigating evolving industry challenges, and from Rowell Recinto, who reflected on the hotel’s early days and strategic milestones. A 13-piece orchestra, led by Musical Director Adonis Tabanda, provided an elegant musical backdrop for the celebration.
The Grand Ballroom was transformed into a sophisticated setting for the evening, with dramatic lighting, crystal chandeliers, and tables adorned with refined centerpieces. The event symbolized not only a celebration of the past but also a commitment to future innovation and service excellence.
Since opening, Novotel Manila Araneta City has contributed significantly to local tourism and business travel, offering contemporary accommodations, conference facilities, and integrated services for both corporate and leisure guests. Its decade-long track record reflects the growing demand for midscale international hotels in the Philippines, and positions it as a benchmark for other properties entering the market.
With “Timeless at 10,” Novotel Manila reaffirms its vision to continue leading the hospitality industry in the Philippines, blending global standards with local relevance to deliver unparalleled experiences for travelers and business partners alike.