Cebu-based real estate and hospitality firm AppleOne Group Inc. has drawn up an aggressive expansion plan aligned with the initiatives of Department of Tourism to attract more international visitors and sustain the recovery of the industry.
AppleOne Group president Ray Manigsaca said the firm was in talks with several international luxury hotel brands that could help the company move forward with its tourism-related projects within and outside Cebu.
“We have identified several areas in other parts of the Visayas and in Mindanao for our future development projects and diversification efforts,” he said.
The real estate company is optimistic of higher tourism arrivals based on the DOT’s forecast of 4.8 million visitors in 2023.
DOT data showed that visitor arrivals in Cebu province jumped by 205 percent in 2022 to 2.8 million from 902,000 in 2021.
AppleOne is confident overall arrivals in the Philippines would surpass the forecast with the aggressive efforts of the DOT to attract more tourists now that the borders are open, flights are back to normal and people are on the lookout for the best revenge travel ideas
AppleOne is looking to replicate in other parts of the Visayas and in Mindanao its brand of luxurious hotels as it aims to embark on partnerships that will uphold the company’s vision.
Manigsaca said the company engaged Marriott International, an internationally-recognized hospitality brand, to ensure that The Residences at Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, which sits along a stretch of white sand beach, offers modern conveniences and 5-star hotel amenities.
Mahi Center is AppleOne’s response to the need to advance the information technology industry in Lapu-Lapu City. Mahi Center also offers well-curated retail experiences via a boutique mall, office spaces for IT businesses with direct access to the mall and the first business hotel from global hotel Marriott International which will carry the brand Fairfield by Marriott Mactan.
“The hotel in Mahi Center is evidence of another strong partnership forged by AppleOne with the world’s largest hotel operator, Marriott International. Mahi Center will be a gateway to a dynamic and vibrant Mactan as it will bring forth world-class experiences and quality accommodations,”Manigsaca said.
Manigsaca founded AppleOne in Cebu City 12 years ago to diversify the then 17-year-old construction company, VenRay, which focused on building roads and bridges.