The redeveloped Waterfront Manila Hotel & Casino, which was destroyed by fire in 2018, will hold a soft opening in the first quarter of 2026 as part of a three-phase opening schedule, according to operator Acesite (Phils) Hotel Corporation.
The company, of which Waterfront Philippines Inc holds a controlling 55.7% stake, provided an update on the timeline of the reconstruction and renovation of the property in a Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) filing late last week, which added that full opening is currently due to take place in 1Q27.
Waterfront Manila Hotel & Casino, formerly Manila Pavilion Hotel, burn down in March 2018 in a fire said to be caused by faulty electrical wiring. Six PAGCOR employees tragically lost their lives in the blaze, which ignited in the slot machine area of the casino.
In response to PSE inquiries, Acesite said the Phase 1 opening of the renovated property would “focus on completing the podium, which includes public areas such as the lobby, select food and beverage outlets, and the casino. A soft opening is planned during this phase.”
Phase 2, scheduled to open by 3Q26, will introduce “additional guest amenities and facilities” while Phase 2, targeted for the first quarter of 2027, “will complete the remaining hotel rooms and general amenities, marking the full reopening of the property.”
Explaining the reasons for the long development time, Acesite explained that delays “arose from a combination of unforeseen challenges encountered during redevelopment and reconstruction. These challenges include technical difficulties, adjustments to the project scope to enhance facilities and logistical hurdles such as sourcing specialized materials and equipment. Many of these issues surfaced during the construction process due to the decision to retain the original structure and shell of the building that is over 50 years old as a cost-saving measure.
“Site-specific challenges further complicate the process, particularly the need to address structural reinforcements and adapt to the condition of the existing foundation. During construction, damaged tendons were discovered, requiring replacement and additional reinforcement. To maintain the highest standards of quality and safety, these developments necessitated a comprehensive reassessment of the project timeline.
“Concerns over slab vibrations also led to the replacement of certain slabs. This effort involved introducing extra reinforcement and framing to accommodate duct penetrations within the slabs, as recommended by the structural engineer. Controlled demolition was meticulously executed to prevent any impact on adjacent structural elements, highlighting the complexity and precision required for the reconstruction.
“Despite these unforeseen challenges, the additional reinforcements are critical to ensuring the long-term safety and well-being of all building occupants, including both guests and employees.”
Acesite said its latest opening schedule was conservative to account for the current scope and complexity of retrofitting work, but added it is making efforts to reassess requirements and explore opportunities to “optimize the schedule” through effective phasing and task sequencing.
