In the middle of Punta Engaño Road in Mactan, Cebu awaits an exclusive paradise for the most discerning travelers.
Simon Chew, the general manager of Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu, leads the charge in this luxurious property. He is a seasoned hospitality leader known for his strategic vision, operational expertise, and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
With a career spanning over three decades in the luxury and upscale hospitality sectors, Chew has played a pivotal role in elevating Mövenpick’s reputation as a world-class hospitality brand.
Mövenpick Cebu artfully combines Swiss precision with Filipino warmth, creating a hospitality experience unlike any other. Staying true to Mövenpick’s Swiss heritage, the resort upholds exacting standards of quality, meticulous attention to detail, and seamless operational excellence. At the same time, it embraces the genuine kindness, gracious service, and heartfelt sincerity that define Filipino hospitality. This harmonious balance allows guests to enjoy the best of both worlds—impeccable efficiency paired with authentic, joyful connections.
“As general manager, I believe fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork begins with leadership by example. I make it a point to demonstrate the behaviors and values I expect from the team—whether it’s commitment to quality, professionalism, or genuine care for our guests and colleagues,” shared Chew.
“I maintain open communication, showing transparency and approachability, so team members feel valued and heard. By being present on the floor, actively engaging with staff across departments, and recognizing their efforts publicly, I reinforce a positive and collaborative environment,” the hospitality excutive added.
Sustainability has become a key global concern, and it holds significant importance in Cebu as well.
“As a Green Globe Certified hotel, we integrate sustainability into all aspects of our operations,” Chew said. “Through the Accor GAIA 2 program, we track food waste and manage preparation carefully—especially in buffet service—to minimize waste without compromising guest satisfaction.”
As international travel has gradually rebounded, Mövenpick Cebu has shifted to a balanced strategy: maintaining its domestic base while reactivating international markets.
For inbound tourists, it has focused on rebuilding relationships with key wholesalers and agents in countries like Japan, Korea, and Europe, emphasizing Cebu’s unique offerings and the Mövenpick brand’s global appeal. Additionally, it has increased investments in digital marketing and loyalty programs to engage both segments more effectively.
The key to its approach has been agility, recognizing the distinct needs of domestic and international guests and tailoring strategies accordingly while ensuring consistent service quality across all markets.
In line with this, I have had the pleasure of experiencing the seamless blend of international luxury and genuine Filipino hospitality, savoring every moment—from the exquisite cuisine to the impeccable service and accommodations.
