Ayala Land Hospitality crafts sustainable, warm and soulful escapes


At Ayala Land Hospitality, five-star stays come with meaning—thoughtful touches, local charm, and genuine Filipino warmth.
Even as the hospitality arm of property giant Ayala Land Inc. pursues an ambitious plan to double its hotel portfolio to over 8,000 rooms by 2030, it remains equally focused on creating elevated and meaningful experiences that celebrate Filipino identity, uplift local communities, and put people at the heart of hospitality.

Balance of growth, purpose
This balance of growth and purpose is precisely the lens through which Ayala Land Hospitality does everything—from designing spaces, building community ties, rethinking the guest journey to bringing Philippine hospitality to the global stage.
Every detail is a living expression of story, soul, and sincerity. And at the heart of it all is the distinct Filipino talent that lends warmth, soul and that unmistakable sense of home in every hotel of Ayala Land Hospitality.
“Hospitality is about people—the ones we welcome and the ones who bring the experience to life. Our role is to champion Filipino talent, giving them the tools, training, and opportunities to grow, because their passion and skill are what make our brand truly exceptional,” said Paloma Urquijo Zobel de Ayala, chief creative officer of Ayala Land Hospitality.

This commitment is aptly reflected by Ayala Land Hospitality’s refreshed brand identity, “Our Heart is in the Details.” It’s an idea that elevates the everyday through quiet precision—where a warm greeting, a welcome drink or a locally crafted accent piece are deliberate expressions of care and culture.
“What sets Filipino hospitality apart is the sincerity behind it. It’s not just about providing service—it’s about creating connections. That’s why we invest in our people, ensuring that every detail, every gesture, reflects the heart and craftsmanship that make Filipino hospitality world-class,” Zobel de Ayala explained.

Lasting impact
Those details extend well beyond the guest room. For Ayala Land Hospitality, a hotel also serves as a platform for community uplifting and cultural storytelling. This means working hand-in-hand with local artisans, sourcing ingredients from nearby farms, and curating programming that reflects the spirit of each locale.
“Great hospitality extends beyond the walls of a hotel—it should leave a lasting impact on the communities around it. From supporting local artisans to creating jobs that empower entire families, our success is measured not just in guest satisfaction, but in how much we give back,” Zobel de Ayala said.
“For us, growth isn’t just about opening new properties—it’s about making sure that every step forward benefits the people and culture that make these destinations special. We see our hotels as platforms to celebrate, sustain, and uplift the communities they belong to,” she added.

Refreshing approach
This is no doubt a refreshing approach that is best embodied in the upcoming reinvention of Lagen Island Resort in El Nido, Palawan—one of the most anticipated projects in the pipeline. Set to reopen in late 2025, Lagen is being thoughtfully reimagined as a showcase of sustainable architecture, Filipino design, and what Ayala Land Hospitality calls “barefoot luxury.”
Here, refinement whispers through natural materials, subtle craftsmanship, and a deep respect for its ecological surroundings.

“Lagen’s reinvention is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about redefining what luxury means in the Philippines,” Zobel de Ayala said. “We’re embracing natural beauty, sustainable practices, and Filipino artistry to create a space that feels both timeless and deeply connected to its environment.”
This philosophy runs through all of Ayala Land Hospitality’s properties. While undeniably elegant, they are never impersonal. Instead, these hotels feel rooted, resonant, and real—designed both for locals seeking meaningful escapes and international travelers hoping to experience the soul of the Philippines, not just the sights.
As Zobel de Ayala said: “Hospitality is not just about where you stay—it’s about how a place makes you feel.”
