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.

Jun Justo, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts NCR+ Cluster General Manager and ERH General Manager, opened the evening by revisiting the hotel’s landmark role as Megaworld’s inaugural hotel in Eastwood City, a milestone that helped shape the company’s signature live-work-play townships across the country. An AVP presentation followed, honoring the dedication of ERH’s employees—known as Enrichers—whose warmth and service have helped build Richmonde’s distinct Filipino brand of hospitality.

The event was graced by guests including Megaworld Corporation President and CEO Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, Department of Tourism Undersecretary Maria Rica Bueno, Quezon City LEDIPO representative Jong Sumpiaco, and Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Managing Director Cleofe Albiso. In their messages, they emphasized ERH’s contributions to local tourism, community development, and Quezon City’s hospitality landscape, as well as its commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism through MHR’s Sampaguita Service.

A celebratory toast led by MHR Group General Manager Art Boncato formally marked the milestone, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the hotel’s Christmas tree and its handcrafted Sampaguita-inspired Capiz lantern, signaling the start of the holiday season.

Entertainment was provided by Harana, a group of professional singers and La Salle Kundirana alumni, whose performances of OPM classics and Christmas songs elevated the festive atmosphere.

Guests then proceeded to Eastwood Café+Bar for a curated six-course dinner prepared by MHR Corporate Chef Panky Lopez and ERH Executive Chef Peter Paluga. The menu featured elevated Filipino favorites such as Salmon Sinigang Steak and Caldereta Tiger Pie, showcasing the hotel’s creative approach to local cuisine.

As Eastwood Richmonde Hotel looks ahead, it reaffirms its commitment to purposeful, heartfelt, and culturally rooted hospitality, continuing its legacy as a proudly Filipino hotel that enriches each guest experience.