The Waterfront Manila Hotel & Casino in the Philippines will reopen through a phased approach, Acesite (Philippines) Hotel Corp announced in a Thursday filing with the Philippine Stock Exchange. Waterfront Philippines Inc. holds a 56% majority stake in Acesite.
The company plans to soft-launch the first phase, including the casino, in the first quarter of 2026. During this initial phase, Acesite will prioritize completing the podium structure, which covers public spaces such as the lobby, select dining outlets, and the casino itself.
Since redevelopment work began in 2018 after a major fire, the company has moved steadily forward. The second phase, scheduled for late in the third quarter of 2026, will introduce more guest amenities and facilities. Then, in early 2027, the final phase will complete the remaining hotel rooms and general amenities, marking the full reopening of the property.
Acesite acknowledged that it revised previous reopening timelines due to construction delays and its decision to stagger the reopening process. The company encountered a variety of unforeseen challenges throughout redevelopment and reconstruction. These included technical complexities, project plan adjustments to enhance facilities, and logistical hurdles such as sourcing specialized materials and equipment.
Additionally, Acesite explained that these challenges arose partly because it chose to retain the building’s original structure, which is over 50 years old, as a cost-saving measure. The company also faced site-specific complications, requiring extensive structural reinforcements and foundation adaptations. Importantly, Acesite stressed that these additional reinforcements will ensure the long-term safety and comfort of both guests and employees.
Overall, the company continues to address these issues carefully while pushing forward with its phased reopening strategy.
