BIZ BUZZ: From helipad to party scene

The property market may be anemic right now, but there’s one subsegment where supply can’t seem to cope with demand.

We’re talking about venues for galas, birthdays, weddings and other formal receptions—the kind that caters to the affluent market. Apparently, there’s not enough supply of hotel ballrooms and event spaces that can satiate the discerning crowd.

Property giant SM Prime Holdings, for instance, had to give up its ballroom slot for its 2026 annual stockholders meeting at flagship hotel Conrad Manila along Manila Bay in favor of a big client. The meeting was instead held at the nearby Lanson Place.

To unlock more revenues from its existing structure, Conrad converted its roof deck, previously used exclusively as a helipad, into an upscale events area called Dewey. It’s named in honor of George Dewey, the United States Navy commander who had defeated the Spanish squadron at the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898 during the Spanish-American War.

So how much will it cost to throw an intimate corporate event or bespoke social celebration at Conrad accented with a “refined rooftop ambience with sweeping bay views?” Rates start at P800,000 to rent this Instaworthy venue for 170 guests.

But for crazy rich Asians who still wish to arrive in style—descend via chopper against the backdrop of Manila Bay’s panoramic sunset—it’s still possible. After all, Dewey will have flexible indoor and al fresco spaces.