The Waterfront Manila Hotel & Casino, a well-known establishment in the Philippines, is set to reopen in stages, beginning in the first quarter of 2026. According to its operator, Acesite (Philippines) Hotel Corporation, the redevelopment process encountered multiple challenges, pushing the timeline for full operations to the first quarter of 2027.

The reopening will be carried out in three meticulously planned phases. The initial phase, scheduled for early 2026, will focus on completing the podium, including the hotel lobby, select dining options, and the casino. Acesite has announced that a soft opening will take place during this phase to introduce guests to the refurbished areas.

By the third quarter of 2026, the second phase will roll out additional amenities, enhancing the guest experience with more facilities. The final phase, expected by early 2027, will bring the project to full completion, unveiling all remaining hotel rooms and general amenities.

Acesite emphasized that the phased approach ensures quality, safety, and a smooth reopening process. “The reopening of the hotel will be executed in three carefully planned phases to ensure a seamless transition and deliver an exceptional guest experience,” the company stated in a Philippine Stock Exchange disclosure, as reported by the Manila Bulletin.

Construction Challenges

The delays stemmed from a series of unforeseen issues that emerged during reconstruction. Acesite revealed that retaining the original structure and shell of the building, which is over five decades old, was a cost-effective decision but introduced unexpected technical difficulties.

Problems such as damaged tendons requiring replacement, slab vibrations necessitating additional reinforcement, and controlled demolition for specific areas added complexity to the project. Structural engineers also recommended extra framing to accommodate duct penetrations, further extending the timeline.

Site-specific challenges included adapting the design to the building’s existing foundation while ensuring structural reinforcements met modern safety standards. Acesite highlighted that the additional measures were crucial to guaranteeing the safety and comfort of future occupants, including guests and staff, according to the Inquirer.

Commitment to Excellence

Despite these setbacks, Acesite remains focused on delivering a high-quality facility. The company noted that adjustments to the project scope, including logistical hurdles like sourcing specialized materials, are being carefully managed to uphold the building’s safety and operational sustainability.

Efforts to optimize the timeline through task sequencing and effective phasing are underway. “These measures reaffirm the project’s commitment to delivering a safe, structurally sound, and high-quality building, ensuring sustainable operations,” Acesite stated according to BusinessWorld Online.

Historical Context

The Waterfront Manila Hotel & Casino has a storied history, having been a prominent part of the country’s hospitality sector. However, a devastating fire in 2018 left the property significantly damaged, leading to its closure for extensive redevelopment.

Acesite, which is majority-owned by Waterfront Philippines, Inc., oversees several hotel properties in key locations, including Cebu City, Mactan Island, and Davao City. The redevelopment of the Manila property is seen as a key step in revitalizing the company’s portfolio and restoring the landmark’s position in the industry.

The company’s stock performance reflects investor reactions to the delayed reopening, with shares recently trading at PHP 1.65, showing a minor decline. However, the planned reopening is expected to generate renewed interest and optimism as the project progresses.

As the countdown to its phased reopening begins, the Waterfront Manila Hotel & Casino aims to recapture its legacy as a premier destination in the Philippine hospitality scene.