Spaces
Philippines gets first two Michelin Key hotels
‘Every recognition earned by our tourism stakeholders contributes to a stronger Philippine tourism brand. we will continue working with our partners in the industry to further elevate the quality of Philippine hospitality.’
Two of the country’s hotels, one in Palawan and another one in Makati, got Michelin Keys by the Michelin Guide, which was lauded by the Department of Tourism (DoT) on Monday.
According to the DoT, the first-ever Two Michelin Key properties are alongside four newly awarded One Michelin Key hotels.
El Nido Resorts Lagen Island in Palawan and Raffles Makati were named as the first Philippine hotels to earn Two Michelin Keys, signifying an “exceptional stay.”
Michelin Guide stated that El Nido Resorts Lagen Island was recognized for its setting within a forested cove framed by limestone cliffs, Filipino materials and craftsmanship, and its environmentally sound practices.
Meanwhile, Raffles Makati was promoted from One to Two Michelin Keys, with the Guide highlighting its all-suite accommodations, private butler service, and intimate residential atmosphere.
Apart from these, four new properties likewise received their first One Michelin Key: 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.
Meanwhile, Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao, Fairmont Makati, and Amanpulo in Palawan retained their One-Michelin-Key distinctions from last year’s selection.
With the unveiling of the 2026 Michelin Key selection, the Philippines now has a total of nine Michelin-Key hotels.
“This recognition reflects continued growth of Philippine hospitality and the dedication of our tourism stakeholders in creating exceptional experiences for travelers from around the world,’ Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said.
“Beyond the recognition itself, we see this as opportunity to further position the Philippines as a destination where travelers can find exeptionial stays, from our island resorts to our urban hotels, all anchored on the warmth of Filipino hospitality,” she added.
The Michelin Guide’s hotel selection evaluates properties based on five universal criteria: excellence in architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price and a significant contribution to the neighborhood or setting.
Serving as the hotel counterpart of the Michelin Star for restaurants, the Michelin Key recognizes the most outstanding experiences in the hotel selection through One, Two and Three-Key distinctions.
A One Michelin Key denotes a “very special stay,” recognizing a true gem with personality where service goes the extra mile, while Two Michelin Keys signify an “exceptional stay” for a hotel that is unique in every way and where a memorable experience is guaranteed.
“Every recognition earned by our tourism stakeholders contributes to a stronger Philippine tourism brand. As we continue to welcome more travelers, we will likewise continue working with our partners in the industry to further elevate the quality of Philippine hospitality,” Mathay added.