Two Philippine hotels earn country’s first Two MICHELIN Keys

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 22, 2026

Photo courtesy: El Nido Resorts | Raffles Makati

MANILA — The Philippines has reached a new hospitality milestone after El Nido Resorts Lagen Island in Palawan and Raffles Makati became the first hotels in the country to earn Two MICHELIN Keys, a distinction given to properties offering what the MICHELIN Guide describes as an “exceptional stay.”

The recognition was part of the 2026 MICHELIN Key hotel selection, which brought the total number of MICHELIN-Key properties in the Philippines to nine.

Lagen Island entered the selection directly with Two Keys. The MICHELIN Guide cited its location in a forested cove surrounded by limestone cliffs, its use of Filipino materials and craftsmanship, and its environmental practices.

Raffles Makati, meanwhile, was promoted from One MICHELIN Key to Two, with the Guide highlighting its all-suite accommodations, private butler service and residential atmosphere.

Four other Philippine properties received their first One MICHELIN Key this year: NUSTAR Hotel Cebu in Cebu City, El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island in Palawan, Hotel Okura Manila at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City, and Manami Resort in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.

Three properties retained their One-Key distinctions: Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao, Fairmont Makati, and Amanpulo in Palawan.

Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said the recognition reflects the continued development of the Philippine hospitality sector and provides another opportunity to promote the country to international travelers.

“This recognition reflects the continued growth of Philippine hospitality and the dedication of our tourism stakeholders in creating exceptional experiences for travelers from around the world,” Angara-Mathay said in a Department of Tourism statement carried by the Philippine News Agency.

MICHELIN evaluates hotels using five criteria: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, personality and character, value for price, and contribution to the surrounding destination or community.

The MICHELIN Key serves as the hotel counterpart to the MICHELIN Star system for restaurants. One Key denotes a “very special stay,” while Two Keys signify an “exceptional stay.” The system also includes a Three-Key distinction at its highest level.

The Department of Tourism said it will continue working with industry partners to improve the quality of Philippine hospitality and strengthen the country’s position as an international tourism destination.