Marcos: Paranaque hotel uplifts PH tourism, economic potentials

FILE: President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. vowed to embrace the Philippine’s role in the region and around the world ‘with a sense of purpose’ as he underscored the strong potentials of the country given its position in global standing. (PCO Photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday said the newly opened Grand Westside Hotel in Paranaque City, tagged the biggest hotel development in the country yet, would be a major economic and tourism boost.

During the inauguration of Megaworld’s Grand Westside Hotel, Marcos said the 19-story establishment with over 1,500 rooms would not only strengthen the government’s tourism campaign but would also generate more jobs and business opportunities for Filipinos.

Marcos said the hotel’s addition to Philippine tourism is particularly noteworthy in light of the sector’s “remarkable” growth, which contributed 8.6 percent to the country’s gross domestic product in 2023.

“Thanks to this hotel, we can do more. Not only can we accommodate the resurging number of local and international tourists coming to this side of Metro Manila, but we can also expect our Entertainment City to become better known and even more distinguished, elevating its status to more potential visitors in the coming years,” the President said in his speech.

Marcos disclosed that other developments from the real property giant are underway, including the 1,500-seater Grand Opera House also in Paranaque, more theaters and a gaming complex, among other things.

“With all these, we foresee not only the entry of more tourists but also the generation of more jobs, of new businesses and greater opportunity. In fact, [while] many have benefitted from the actual construction of these [properties], around 20,000 direct and indirect jobs will still be created throughout the operation of this hotel in the years to come,” he said.

The President said he is looking forward to Megaworld’s triumphs that will “undoubtedly contribute to the new Philippines, ang Bagong Pilipinas.”

“Indeed, all of us share the desire to raise sustainable, complete, [and] well-rounded communities that even the next generations can enjoy. With the seal of quality stamped wherever the name Megaworld appears — be it condominiums, malls, or office buildings — I’m confident in the lasting and powerful outcome of your work and these collaborations,” the President said.