MAKATI CITY, Philippines — One of the world’s most iconic luxury hospitality brands is making its long-awaited return to the Philippines, as Mandarin Oriental officially unveils plans for Mandarin Oriental Makati, Manila, set to open in December 14, 2026.
Positioned above Ayala Triangle Gardens in the heart of Makati’s central business district, the new luxury hotel signals more than the comeback of a globally renowned brand — it also reflects Makati’s continuing evolution into a greener, more connected, and culturally driven urban destination.
Developed in partnership with Ayala Land, the upcoming property will feature 275 guestrooms and suites, five dining concepts, a signature spa and wellness floor, and expansive event facilities designed to cater to both international travelers and the local luxury market.
For Ayala Land Creative Director Paloma Urquijo Zobel de Ayala, the return of Mandarin Oriental represents both a tribute to Makati’s heritage and a reflection of the city’s future direction.
“Mandarin Oriental has long held a special place in the story of Makati,” she said. “Its return reflects not only the enduring appeal of the city, but also our vision of creating world-class city destinations that celebrate Filipino culture and foster meaningful connections.”
Designed by national artist Leandro Locsin, the original Mandarin Oriental Manila operated from 1976 to 2014 and became one of Makati’s most recognizable landmarks during the city’s rise as the country’s premier financial and lifestyle district. Its return carries strong nostalgic value for many Manila residents and long-time hospitality industry observers.
“We have the opportunity going through the Locsin archives. We spend countless hours in there, and it was a wonderful reminder of just how ambitious that original vision was, and how deeply intertwined Mandarin Oriental’s story is with the story of Makati itself. Its return is therefore more than the opening of a hotel, it’s the return of a beloved part of Makati’s story, almost like a friend and family member.”
During the official presentation, Mandarin Oriental Makati General Manager Franck Droin described the reopening as a “homecoming” rather than simply another hotel launch.
“It’s a lot of emotions for Mandarin Oriental,” Droin shared. “When people think about Mandarin Oriental, they very often think about luxury. But what has sustained the brand for six decades is something deeper than luxury.”
According to Droin, the group’s philosophy has always centered on creating exceptional experiences rooted in the identity of each destination rather than replicating a uniform luxury concept around the world.
“Every Mandarin Oriental should feel inseparable from the city in which it stands,” he said. “Our guests do not simply stay at Mandarin Oriental — they stay in Hong Kong, in Bangkok, in Tokyo, and now once again, in Makati.”
Droin added that the new property will embody the energy of Makati and the warmth of Filipino hospitality.
“This hotel could only exist here at this address,” he said. “It draws inspiration from the energy of the city, the creativity of the Philippines, and the warmth of Filipino hospitality.”
For the new property, the brand is placing strong emphasis on Filipino identity and craftsmanship. Interiors will incorporate natural materials, woven textures, and locally inspired design elements, while guestrooms are being configured to accommodate today’s multigenerational and experience-driven travelers.
Dining is expected to become a major highlight of the property, with five restaurant and bar concepts featuring Cantonese, Filipino, and international cuisines using locally sourced ingredients. Wellness facilities will include an 800-square-meter spa and wellness floor inspired by Filipino healing traditions, alongside fitness facilities, yoga spaces, and a 25-meter outdoor swimming pool overlooking Ayala Triangle Gardens.
The property will also target the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) market through a 740-square-meter Grand Hall capable of accommodating up to 1,000 guests, complemented by meeting rooms and flexible event spaces.
Located approximately 15 minutes from Manila’s international airport, Mandarin Oriental Makati is expected to strengthen the capital’s position as a regional business, lifestyle, and cultural destination while supporting the luxury brand’s continued expansion across Southeast Asia.
For Mandarin Oriental, the reopening marks the revival of a storied legacy in Manila — one anchored not only in luxury, but in a renewed sense of place, heritage, and Filipino hospitality.
