The Philippines has welcomed its first-ever Two MICHELIN Key hotels, with two properties earning the distinction in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection, while four more properties were newly awarded One MICHELIN Key.
El Nido Resorts Lagen Island in Palawan and Raffles Makati made history as the country’s first Two MICHELIN Key properties, a distinction that recognizes an “exceptional stay.”
The MICHELIN Guide highlighted El Nido Resorts Lagen Island for its setting within a forested cove surrounded by limestone cliffs, as well as its use of Filipino materials and craftsmanship and its environmentally sound practices.
Raffles Makati, meanwhile, was elevated from One to Two MICHELIN Keys. The Guide cited the property’s all-suite accommodations, private butler service and intimate, residential atmosphere among the qualities that set it apart.
Four properties received their first One MICHELIN Key in the 2026 selection: NUSTAR Hotel Cebu in Cebu City; El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island in Palawan; Hotel Okura Manila at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City; and Manami Resort in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.
Retaining their One MICHELIN Key distinctions from the previous selection are Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao, Fairmont Makati and Amanpulo in Palawan.
The latest selection brings the Philippines’ total to nine MICHELIN-Key hotels—two with Two Keys and seven with One Key.
Recognizing exceptional hotel experiences
The MICHELIN Guide’s hotel selection evaluates properties against five universal criteria: excellence in architecture and interior design; quality and consistency of service; overall personality and character; value for the price; and a significant contribution to the neighborhood or setting.
Introduced as the hotel counterpart to the MICHELIN Star for restaurants, the MICHELIN Key recognizes the most outstanding hotels in the Guide’s selection.
A One MICHELIN Key represents a “very special stay,” recognizing a hotel that stands out for its personality and where service goes the extra mile. A Two MICHELIN Key denotes an “exceptional stay,” reserved for properties considered unique in their own way and capable of delivering a memorable experience.
Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay welcomed the latest recognition, describing it as a reflection of the continuing development of Philippine hospitality and the efforts of tourism stakeholders to create exceptional experiences for travelers.
“This recognition reflects the continued growth of Philippine hospitality and the dedication of our tourism stakeholders in creating exceptional experiences for travelers from around the world,” Angara-Mathay said.
She also emphasized the broader significance of the recognition in positioning the Philippines as a destination offering high-quality accommodation experiences across different settings.
“Beyond the recognition itself, we see this as an opportunity to further position the Philippines as a destination where travelers can find exceptional stays, from our island resorts to our urban hotels, all anchored on the warmth of Filipino hospitality,” she added.
The Tourism chief said the latest distinctions also contribute to strengthening the country’s tourism brand.
“Every recognition earned by our tourism stakeholders contributes to a stronger Philippine tourism brand. As we continue to welcome more travelers, we will likewise continue working with our partners in the industry to further elevate the quality of Philippine hospitality,” Angara-Mathay said.
