Robinsons Hotels and Resorts (RHR), the hospitality arm of Robinsons Land Corporation, is accelerating its strategic focus on the Indian market as part of its broader international expansion, reinforcing efforts to diversify its guest mix and elevate the Philippines’ global tourism positioning.
In a recent briefing, Senior Vice President and Business Unit General Manager Barun Jolly outlined the group’s multi-pronged approach to engaging Indian travelers and trade partners.
Tapping a high-growth market
Jolly cited improved accessibility as a key driver behind the push, noting the introduction of daily direct flights and visa-free access, positioning Manila within a convenient seven-hour journey from India.
“With evolving global travel dynamics, Indian travelers are seeking stable and accessible destinations. The Philippines offers a compelling mix—from pristine beaches and world-class diving to vibrant retail and leisure experiences across more than 7,000 islands,” he said.
First-mover advantage in trade engagement
RHR underscored its early market entry, having mounted an extensive sales blitz across India in 2025—the first of its kind by a Philippine hotel group. The initiative enabled direct engagement with leading travel wholesalers and MICE operators, laying the groundwork for long-term partnerships.
The campaign highlighted the country’s accessibility, RHR’s signature “Hospitality by Heart” service culture, and the diversity of its destinations.
Portfolio strength and cultural Iintegration
As one of the Philippines’ largest hospitality groups, RHR operates 30 hotels across 20 key destinations, spanning major hubs such as Metro Manila, Cebu, and Tagaytay, and covering segments from luxury to essential value.
To better serve Indian guests, the group has embedded Indian culinary expertise across key properties, including Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, and The Westin Manila. These chefs are also leading cross-property training programs, with plans to roll out Indian food festivals across Summit-branded hotels nationwide.
In Manila, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria is hosting the “Saffron and Spice” festival at Seven Corners from April 12–20, 2026, featuring a guest chef from Holiday Inn New Delhi and showcasing North Indian cuisine.
Targeting weddings and leisure segments
Recognizing the strong outbound wedding segment, RHR has introduced bespoke Indian wedding packages at Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, tailored to accommodate large-scale, multi-day celebrations. Complementing these offerings, the group has implemented cultural sensitivity training for frontline teams to ensure a more personalized and respectful guest experience.
Driving demand through incentives
To further stimulate travel, RHR is offering a 20% discount across its homegrown brands—Grand Summit, Summit, Go Hotels Plus, and Go Hotels—using the promo code FLYIND. The offer is valid for bookings made via its official website until July 30, 2026, for Indian travelers presenting a valid boarding pass within seven days of check-in.
The group also continues to spotlight Fili, positioned as the country’s only Filipino five-star brand, delivering an immersive luxury experience rooted in local culture.
Sustained momentum for 2026 and beyond
Looking ahead, RHR is set to expand its footprint with upcoming developments such as Summit Villas Siargao and Fili Hotel Bridgetowne. Jolly emphasized that the India market will remain a core focus for 2026.
“Through targeted partnerships, culturally attuned programming, and a diversified portfolio, we are positioning Robinsons Hotels and Resorts as a leading gateway for Indian travelers to the Philippines,” he said.
