The Manila Hotel officially launched its coffee table book “The Manila Hotel: True Heart of the Philippines” last Wednesday, Aug. 30, 2023 at the Presidential Suite of the hotel.
The book is a testament to the long-lasting legacy of the esteemed establishment and is remarkable proof to the enduring legacy of the hotel.
Tracing its origins back to its opening in 1912, The Manila Hotel is now on its 111th year. This is indeed a notable achievement for any establishment, and the coffee table book is the first in the hotel's history, as noted by The Manila Hotel President Atty. Joey Lina in his keynote speech at the event.
"This is the first Manila Hotel coffee table book in the hotel's 111 years of existence. The book is not just a compilation of photos and narratives, it is a revelation of the soul of Manila Hotel."
He continued, "Through photos, through stories, through quotes from important people that describe what Manila Hotel is, Manila Hotel has had a very rich history. As we say, this is a venue of great events and grand aspirations."
The book features carefully selected archival photos, informative stories, and personal accounts from notable figures to illustrate the hotel's significant role in the cultural and social fabric of the Philippines.
The book's 162 pages feature a diverse collection of images that depict the hotel's history over the past 11 decades, capturing significant historical changes and accomplishments.
The book's author and editor shared a few of her thoughts during the launch. "For me, it was a labor of love. We eat here for lunch, we go to the coffee shop. We stay at the lounge for hours people watching. We have substantial dinners and lunches at the Chinese restaurant. And then once in a while, before the pandemic, we would relax our muscles in the spa. And so, Manila Hotel is a gem by itself."
Present at the event were coffee table book photographers Sonny Espiritu and Peter Cons, book editor and author Julie Yap Daza, The Manila Hotel President Atty. Joey Lina, The Manila Hotel Chairman Basilio Yap, Atty. Sergio Apostol, President and General Manager of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Jose Arnulfo Veloso, The Manila Hotel Executive Vice President Dr. Enrique Yap Jr. Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta (ret.), The Manila Hotel Vice Chairman Dr. Emilio Yap III, and The Manila Hotel Director Benjamin Yap. Also in attendance were dignitaries, local officials, and other VIPs.
The book is now available at The Manila Hotel gift shop for P1,912, a nod to the year the historic hotel opened.
Photos by Arnold Quizol