Filipino excellence on the global stage: Robinsons Land Corporation's landmark win
By Rey Ilagan
Robinsons Land President and CEO Mybelle V. Aragon-GoBio (center) celebrates with company executives after the team clinched seven major awards and nominated as finalist in 16 categories at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards in Bangkok, Thailand—a proud moment for Filipino excellence on the regional stage.
Even amid uncertainty, the Philippine real estate market continues to show quiet strength and long-term promise. According to The Economist Intelligence Corporate Network, as presented by senior analyst Syetarn Hansakul at the Asia Real Estate Summit 2025, the Philippines is among the few Asian economies expected to post growth in 2026.
Across the country, a new chapter is unfolding that’s defined by sustainable development, integrated estates, and communities shaped around how people truly live today. Living, working, and leisure are no longer siloed pursuits, but interconnected, holistic experiences. At the center of this shift is a developer who understands that progress must be purposeful, people-focused, and built to last: Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC).
It is within this evolving landscape that RLC once again stood out, earning top honors at the 20th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Finals held at The Athenee Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand, on December 12, 2025. More than a company victory, RLC’s recognition reflects how Philippine real estate is steadily finding its place among the region’s fastest growing markets and why Filipino developments are at par with global contemporaries.
Marking another landmark recognition to its 45th anniversary, the Gokongwei-led company emerged as the most awarded Philippine developer of the night, securing a total of seven awards and placing finalist in 16 categories. The wins underscored RLC’s breadth across residential, hospitality, office, retail, and mixed-use developments, each guided by a consistent vision of building better lives.
Among the major honors were Best Luxury Developer (Asia) and Best Hospitality Developer (Asia), recognizing both RLC and its hospitality arm, Robinsons Hotels and Resorts. Individual projects were also celebrated: SYNC by RLC Residences for Best Mid-End Condo Development (Asia); work.able GBF Center 1 for Best Co-Working Space (Asia); The Residences at The Westin Manila for Best Completed Luxury Condo Development (Asia); The Mall | NUSTAR for Best Lifestyle Retail Development (Asia); and The Victor at Bridgetowne Destination Estate for Best Landmark Design (Asia).
Commemorating two decades of recognizing excellence in real estate, the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards 2025 featured over 90 categories honoring the best of Asia, aligned with the group’s mission of empowering communities to live, work, and thrive in tomorrow’s cities. For the Philippines, RLC’s wins served as a reminder that local developments can stand shoulder to shoulder with the most forward-thinking projects in the region.
“This honor is especially meaningful for us because it affirms the direction we have chosen: to commit to premiumization,” said Mybelle Aragon-GoBio, president and CEO of RLC, during her acceptance speech for the Best Luxury Developer (Asia) award. “Over the past few years, we have invested heavily in elevating our designs, standards, and offerings, and even the way we think about the malls, offices, hotels, homes, and estates we create. This recognition tells us that we are on the right path.”
“More importantly, it strengthens our commitment to showcase Filipino excellence and the very best of the Philippines to the world,” Aragon-GoBio continued.
For RLC Residences, the recognition reinforces a philosophy centered on people, partnerships, and long-term value. “These awards echo our mission of building better lives—something that guides every plan, every design, and every project we deliver,” shared Ted Bernas, OIC general manager of RLC Residences. “This is proof that Filipino excellence can stand at par with global standards. To our partners, homeowners, and everyone behind these developments, this win is for all of us. It inspires us to keep building with purpose.”
That same sense of pride extends to RLC’s hospitality portfolio. Barun Jolly, senior vice president and general manager of Robinsons Hotels and Resorts, highlighted milestones that go beyond accolades. “We are proud to have brought to life Fili Hotel, the first and only Filipino five-star hotel brand, and to be present in 20 locations nationwide, bringing world-class hospitality closer to Filipinos. This recognition celebrates Filipino hospitality, our company ethos, and the tireless work of our teams who make Robinsons Hotels and Resorts a growing global player.”
work.able GBF Center 1, the flexible workspace arm of Robinsons Land, showcases the brand’s progressive take on office developments and setting of new standards for modern workspaces. work.able’s world-class interiors designed to foster productivity and collaboration earned its recognition as Best Co-Working Space (Asia).
Perhaps the most symbolic win of the evening was The Victor, the monumental 60-meter contemporary art sculpture by Filipino-American artist Jefre, standing at the heart of Bridgetowne Destination Estate. More than a landmark, it is a statement of creativity, resilience, and shared identity. Conceived as a space where people and ideas converge, The Victor reflects RLC’s belief that developments can inspire as much as they serve.
“This project is our tribute to Philippine excellence, pride, and determination,” Aragon-GoBio said. Acknowledging the artist behind the work, she also mentioned the “creativity, artistry, and love for culture that shaped this landmark into a true representation of the Filipinos’ unwavering spirit.” RLC hopes it will stand as a beacon for everyday Filipinos—artists, workers, students, athletes, and dreamers—who shape the nation’s story.
Fittingly Aragon-GoBio framed the achievements beyond corporate success. “This is a win for Robinsons Land, certainly, but more than that, it is a win for the Philippines.”
More than awards, these recognitions signal the steady rise of Filipino creativity, sustainability, and purpose-driven developments on the global stage. As the country continues its ascent in the region’s real estate landscape, Robinsons Land Corporation reminds us that progress is most meaningful when it uplifts people, strengthens communities, and moves the nation forward.