The month of June ended on a nostalgic note as Sofitel Manila permanently closed their doors.
Its construction started in 1973, officially opening in September 1976 bearing the name of Westin Philippine Plaza. There was a change of management in 2006, leading to the opening of what we now know as Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila by French hospitality company, Accor S.A.
With 47 years of providing five-star luxury accommodations and top-tier hospitality, it’s no surprise that many memories have been celebrated at this prestigious hotel overlooking the gorgeous Manila Bay.
We asked the metro’s notable personalities to share their fondest memories and why Sofitel will always hold a special place in their hearts.
“I will never forget childhood memories hanging out by the pool with my high school friends at the former Philippine Plaza. I enjoyed the slide so much!” —Sheila Romero, chairman of Globalport Terminals Inc.
“Most of my fondest memories of great events were at the Sofitel Hotel. The spread was always exquisite and a sight to behold. The crew and staff were warm and accommodating. I will truly miss this beautiful hotel." — Linda Ley, homemaker.
"Gosh, too many memories! The first professional concert of Gary (Valenciano) was at the Westin Philippine Plaza called Perfect Company with Kuh Ledesma and Music & Magic’s Jet Montelibano and Eva Caparas in April 1983. Gary and I also did a production duet dance number 'Pretty Young Thing' in 1984." — Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano, chief executive officer of Manila Genesis Entertainment and Management, Inc.
“It’s hard not to think of happy hour at Sofitel! The gorgeous Manila bay sunset would put on a spectacular show as you sipped lovely French wine or cocktails. One of my favorite things was the Cheese Room at Spiral where I could indulge in all my beloved stinky artisanal French cheese, reminding me of my Parisian student days.” — Stephanie Zubiri, lifestyle journalist, motivational speaker, soulful living and holistic wellness advocate and reiki practitioner
“I’m so sad about its closing. My prom was there when it was still Westin and my wedding reception was there, too! I specifically wanted it there because our church was in Paco Park, and it was one of the closest hotels that had amazing service and food. I mean, Spirals alone is a reason to go there—the food is excellent. I am really going to miss this place. I can’t imagine how many gorgeous sunsets I’ve enjoyed while staying at Sofitel Philippine Plaza." — Kelly Misa, mother and content creator.
“On November 11, 2007, we had a beautiful sunset wedding ceremony by the lawn area overlooking Manila Bay in Sofitel. The golden hues of the Manila Bay sunset created a magical ambiance while surrounded by our loved ones as we exchanged vows." — Loralee Soong, co-founder of SoFA Design Institute
“I proposed to my wife in front of family and friends in Sofitel. Thank you for the wonderful memories." — AJ Dee, former actor, business owner, designer in Norway.
“Every meal I’ve shared with friends, especially family in Spirals, was so special as it was the best buffet in town for a foodie like me. If I were to pick my fondest though, it would’ve been a family lunch in spirals in July of 2009 which was my send-off for college, right before I left for New York for four years." — Alex Eduque, founder and chairperson of MovEd Foundation
“My memory of Sofitel is the BINI interview and ANC Leadership Series with Madeleine Albright, the first woman to become US Secretary of State." — Karen Davila, broadcast journalist in ABS-CBN, UN Women PH Goodwill Ambassador, founder of Her Legacy Project.
“It’s too hard to pick just one, so I have three to share. The Grand Ballroom was the venue for some of Manila’s best and the biggest fashion shows that I did as a model in the ‘90s. The stunning and incomparable panoramic sunset view, especially from the balcony of the Presidential Suite. The legendary Spiral buffet, Cheese Room, and Public Relations (PR) director Yasmine Hidalgo Giovanolli, whose warm hospitality and extraordinary PR efforts which media people could never say no to and had us all going all the way to Pasay City for Sofitel’s events."
Myrza Sison, confidence coach and certified executive coach, podcaster
Speaking of Yasmine Hidalgo Giovannoli, who is now based in Germany and working as PR Manager of Lobster Experience in Germany. She contributed a lot in terms of promoting Sofitel within her tenure that started as a Management Trainee. I reached out to her online and asked her to share some highlights. “I was one of the two chosen in the year 2007 and I had the chance to live at the hotel. That was so exciting!” As to why she joined Sofitel, “It was the only hotel by Manila Bay with the view of the sunset then, as well as being a heritage building designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin.”
From 2007 to 2008, she worked as a PR officer, helping to rebrand Westin to Sofitel and opening the first Spiral. “During this transformative year, we orchestrated a grand launch, but what stood out most for me was the opening of Spiral. I witnessed firsthand the rigorous selection process for the team, which felt like a major casting. Each candidate had to give more than 100 percent to earn their place. It was thrilling to be involved in every detail, from their look and uniforms designed by Rajo Laurel to the specially crafted Spiral accessories by Arnel Papa, even plates and cutlery.”
Yasmine left for Dubai afterwards, coming back in 2012 as PR director. “My former bosses in Sofitel requested my return. This opportunity allowed me to fully unleash my creativity and imagination, crafting strategies to build and sustain market excitement for one of the most legendary restaurants in Asia Pacific—21 dining ateliers spanning over 2,100 square meters and with the only interactive theatrical kitchen and biggest cheese room in the country.”
Other favorites of Yasmin include mounting fashion shows, food festivals, and cultural extravaganzas such as Oktoberfest and Soiree Beaujolais. “Each event was memorable due to the unwavering support of management and the team, turning visionary ideas into reality. These experiences introduced me to incredible people—wonderful colleagues, chefs, celebrities, media, and marketing experts who have profoundly impacted my life.”
There were VIP visits as well, as the team hosted dignitaries including former U.S. Presidents Obama and Trump, and royalty such as Prince Albert of Monaco. “Celebrities like Madonna, Mariah Carey, Ed Sheeran, and Marion Cotillard brought an unparalleled buzz to the hotel.” She ends our online interview with this, “But most of all, what made me stay was being part of one big family. Everyone that worked at Sofitel was just extraordinary. Who is why every celebration held there was memorable because of colleagues that rendered service from the heart and soul.”
Indeed, Sofitel holds a special place in our hearts, where cherished memories were made. For my husband and me, it was the enchanting sunset view that affirmed our decision to marry in their garden overlooking Manila Bay back in 2008. I don’t think any place can top this romantic location.
Over the years, we've returned with our three children, each visit marking a new stage in our lives. Whether for meals, overnight stays, or simply to bask in its ambiance, every moment at Sofitel has been a sentimental and emotional one. And for this, we are grateful for the unforgettable experiences and the warmth of its first-class hospitality. Sofitel will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts.