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Thursday, November 03, 2005
Multinational investors unfazed by RP crisis
Investment decisions of multinational companies like Hilton International are becoming less and less dependent on any crisis-—political or economic.
“After the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the United States, people have come to realize that these things can happen anywhere, even in the safest place,” said Koos Klein, Hilton president for Middle East and Asia Pacific operations.
“The crisis and challenges are always there. Things can happen anytime, anywhere. And every time these things happen, the effect on people is becoming minimal and minimal.”
No effect
This is why, he said, the current political turmoil facing the Philippine government has not and will not affect the planned investments in the country by the multinational hotel management company.
“(After Cebu), we are continuously looking for an opportunity to partner with a property owner in Manila, as well as other strategic places in the country,” Klein told a press conference held a day after Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa’s grand opening last week.
Hilton’s partner in the development and operation of Hilton Cebu is property owner and developer, Goldland Philippines Corp. (GPC).
Klein recalled that unlike other business partnerships, such as that between SM Prime Holdings and hotel management company Sheraton Hotel that was cancelled due to the economic crisis, Hilton and GPC have weathered through difficult situations.
Complete
“Mr. (Manny) Osmeña (GPC president) said he will complete the project, and we believed him,” he said.
Hilton Cebu Resort and Spa is one of 50 resorts all over the world managed by Hilton International’s sister company, Hilton Worldwide Resorts.
The 246-room French Mediterranean inspired resort will appeal to a growing number of holiday makers in Asia “looking for a classic beach getaway within a few hours flight from their homebase.”
Expanding
“Cebu is only a few hours flying time from some of Asia’s largest metropolises. With the hotel just 10 minutes from the Mactan Airport, it means that an expanding catchment of affluent travelers-—particularly from Korea and Japan-—can fly from congested cities to a relaxed and laidback paradise in a matter of hours,” Klein said.
To ensure an environment-friendly project, Salcon Singapore was commissioned to install a wastewater processing plant making Hilton Cebu a zero-waste discharge resort.
Restaurants and bars carry the design blueprint of the renowned Dan Kwan of Tribeca Indonesia and showcase a diverse menu rich in the finest traditions of international food culture. The outlets include Seas Restaurant, Vanilla Beach Café, Manny O’s Tapas and Wines, the Pink Lobby and the Sapphire Pool Bar. (JBN)
(November 3, 2005 issue)
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