In the bustling heart of Binondo, where tradition meets the pulse of modern Manila, Geraldine N. Gaw has stepped into the spotlight as the Hotel Manager of Hotel Lucky Chinatown.
A seasoned leader with over three decades in the hospitality industry, Gaw is on a mission to redefine the guest experience, inspire her team, and turn the hotel into a dynamic cultural gateway.
With her people-first philosophy and sharp operational insight, Gaw promises not just change—but transformation.
“It was a natural progression. After years of focusing on sales and marketing, moving into operations was a welcome challenge. Now, I’m responsible for everything—ensuring the safety and security of guests, managing the hotel’s overall operations, and leading a team that delivers exceptional service,” said Gaw.
Fondly called “Miss Gigi” by her staff, she believes that “guest experience starts with our people,” focusing on empowering her team. “Our staff are the face of HLC,” she said shared during an intimate talk with Manila Standard at their
Gaw’s journey in hospitality began in 1988 in her hometown of Davao City, where she joined an international hotel chain. According to her, “My journey in the industry has been long and rewarding. I’ve seen how the industry evolved, and I’ve had the privilege of working in several renowned properties.”
Among the key highlights of her career is a 19-year tenure at a prominent hotel in Pasay, where she developed deep expertise in multiple facets of hotel management.
In 2022, post-pandemic, Gaw joined Megaworld Hotels & Resorts as Area Director of Sales and Marketing. Yet, her natural inclination for operations ultimately led her to embrace the manager role at HLC.
Gaw’s leadership style is rooted in “walking the talk.” She believes effective leadership involves visibility and maintaining an open-door policy for both hotel staff and guests.
Hotel Lucky Chinatown, situated in the center of Manila’s Binondo district, provides convenient access to explore the world’s oldest Chinatown—known for its authentic Chinese cuisine, unique shopping experiences, and diverse cultural scene.
These features are seamlessly integrated into the hotel’s offerings, “Whether it’s a quick shopping spree at a nearby market or an exploration of Binondo’s historical landmarks, our hotel serves as the perfect gateway to the best of the city,” Gaw said.
Under her leadership, HLC is evolving beyond being just a place to stay, transforming into a cultural hub for travelers. “We are strengthening our employee initiatives to ensure they feel valued. This naturally translates into better guest interactions and elevates the overall experience,” she explained.
Gaw is also focused on enhancing HLC’s market standing with a long-term vision to elevate the hotel not just in revenue but as a workplace. “While we already score highly in ‘Great Place to Work’ metrics, there’s always room for improvement,” she noted.
Setting her sights on the future, Gaw is committed to fostering innovation and sustainability at HLC while engaging younger travelers such as Gen Z. At the same time, she aims to support the local community by partnering with neighboring businesses in Binondo.
“For us, this is just the beginning. We are committed to continuously improving and evolving, ensuring that Hotel Lucky Chinatown remains a standout destination for both our local and international guests,” Gaw said.
