The hotel confirmed earlier reports about its fate.
In a statement given out by the hotel’s management, Sofitel Philippine Plaza announced that it will cease operations effective July 1, 2024.
They explained, “[t]his decision comes as part of our ongoing commitment to providing our guests and colleagues with the best possible experience.”
The management added that they will honor reservations and continue to serve guests until the end of June.
“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support and patronage of our stakeholders, employees, and guests who have been instrumental in this long journey,” the hotel added.
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila was built in 1973 and welcomed guests for the first time in 1976. The building was designed by National Artist Leandro Locsin and Ildefonso Santos.
It was one of the projects of former First Lady Imelda Marcos, who had set out to develop the reclaimed land in the Pasay area of Manila Bay.
Some of the structures located within the vicinity of Sofitel include the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), Coconut Palace, the Manila Film Center, and the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).
The land where the hotel currently sits on is owned by the Government Service Insurance System or GSIS.
According to a Business Mirror report, Philippine Plaza Holdings, Inc. — owner of the luxury hotel and resort — had already written to GSIS “this week” to extend the lease of the land from the 2041 expiry date all the way through 2066.
With this news, it is still unclear whether the closure in July will be a temporary or permanent move.
Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila was originally operated by Westin from the beginning until 2006, when global hotel firm Accor took over the operations and rebranded the place to its current name.
Former US President Barack Obama and “Queen of Pop” Madonna are some of the most notable personalities who have stayed at the hotel in its nearly 50-year history.