A decade since it first graced Philippine shores, the inaugural Novotel property of Accor in the country stands as a luminous emblem of the group’s celebrated legacy of excellence.
From the moment Novotel Manila Araneta City opened its doors in 2015, it reshaped the hospitality landscape of the City of Firsts. As Araneta City’s pioneering hotel, it emerged swiftly as a design-driven, service-forward landmark—ushering in a new era of cosmopolitan comfort for business and leisure guests alike. A decade on, the property remains a vibrant cornerstone of Accor’s flourishing presence in the Philippines, a living chronicle of the brand’s continuous pursuit of innovation and cultural connection.
This year, Novotel Manila Araneta City celebrates its tenth anniversary — a momentous milestone that pays homage to its storied beginnings, its dynamic present, and the luminous chapters yet to unfold.
On November 17, 2025, the property marked its decade of distinction with a spectacular Blue-and-Gold Anniversary Gala at the Monet Grand Ballroom. The evening was a glittering celebration—elegant, spirited, and unmistakably Novotel—reflecting both the brand’s refined sophistication and its steadfast vision for continued growth in the years ahead.
A ten-minute video showcased the “My Novotel Story” – What started as blueprints and construction plans soon rose into an architectural landmark, shaped by visionary leaders and brought to life by the hotel’s devoted Heartists. For ten years, these dedicated individuals have been the soul of the property, welcoming guests with warmth, creating meaningful connections, and filling every corner with memories that define its spirit.
“They say the best stories are those shared with the people who matter—and tonight, surrounded by individuals who have walked this journey with us, we could not imagine a more fitting moment to look back,” said Maria-Manlulu Garcia, the first Filipina Area General Manager of Accor Philippines for the PME brands and Cluster General Manager of Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City.
“From our humble beginnings to our rise as a vibrant landmark in the heart of Araneta City, we have grown, learned, and cherished every chapter along the way. As the first Novotel in the Philippines, this hotel is more than a structure; it is a home built on passion, resilience, and the countless memories we have created with all of you,” she added.
The event also cast a well-deserved spotlight on the visionaries who have steered the hotel toward its decade of success. Xavier Cappelut, Accor’s Vice President of Operations for Vietnam, the Maldives, and the Philippines, together with Rowell Recinto, Board Director and Senior Management Consultant of the Araneta Group, delivered heartfelt tributes to the many individuals whose dedication and talent shaped Novotel Manila’s first ten years.
A special tribute was likewise dedicated to a pioneering figure whose forward-thinking leadership has long propelled progress at the heart of Araneta City – Jorge Araneta, Chairman, CEO, and President of the Araneta Group, whose legacy continues to inspire the city’s evolution.
