Cebu hotel sector expects sustained growth in 2019

CEBU, Philippines — With projections that Cebu will see more visitors next year, the hotel industry sees positive business prospects.

Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu (HRRAC) president Carlo Suarez believes the hotel business in Cebu will enjoy a sustained growth in 2019.

"Based on the data we have gathered, 2019 is an upward game for tourism. We're expecting a 4-6% growth rate. That would be good," Suarez told The FREEMAN yesterday.

The hotelier said Cebu’s new airport terminal is one of the major drivers to tourism growth next year

"With the new airport that can accommodate more tourists the progress for 2019 is looking bright for the hotels, resorts and restaurants," the general manager of Cebu Grand Hotel also pointed out.

Suarez said Cebu can expect the entry of many international chains moving forward 

"We are expecting a lot of international chain and local hotels opening next year in which it gives Cebu a positive sign that we are a destination," the HRRAC official said.

Various global hotel names are coming to Cebu, making prospects for the hotel business in Cebu quite promising.

Local developer Cebu Landmasters Inc. has partnered with Ascott and Radisson Red to bring these global names to Cebu.

AppleOne Properties is also building a Sheraton property on Mactan Island with Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide while Grand Land is developing various projects bearing the various brands of Thai hotel group Dusit. Robinsons Land is also developing a Dusit property on Mactan Island.

Marriott is also making a comeback in Cebu with the Tanchan Corporate Group.

Marriott International and Tanchan had signed the new 251-room Courtyard by Marriott Cebu.

Meanwhile, national developers are also bringing their homegrown hospitality brands to Cebu with Ayala Land operating Seda hotel, Megaworld constructing a Savoy hotel and Rockwell with its own Aruga brand.