Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila - A Legacy of Culture and Elegance

For inquiries and reservation, please call (632) 832.6988 and (632) 551.5555 ext. 6988, or email h6308-fb12@sofitel.com

A LEGACY OF CULTURE AND ELEGANCE

Bonjour Mabuhay!

Since its rise in 1976, the Sofitel Philippine Plaza

Manila,

formerly

Philippine

Plaza

Hotel has gone through a magnifique voyage evolving in elements, design, milestones and unto signature rituals that has made it the preferred brand and hotel of choice that it is today. Standing majestically by the expansive waters of the historic Manila Bay, it has grown to be an eminent edifice known for its unique blend of French elegance and the best of Filipino culture. It houses a wealth of history and stories too significant and endearing to remain untold.

And so in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Sofitel brand and the promise of more meaningful stories and heartwarming memories, we bring you a collection of enriching tales and anecdotes of a wonderful journey celebrating Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila.

Merci Beaucoup!

Adam Laker General Manager

TABLE OF CONTENTS

RISE OF LEGEND ..................................................................................

4

AT THE CENTER OF ARTS & CULTURE .....................................

5

AN ICONIC MASTERPIECE ...............................................................

6

THE LOBBY BAR ..................................................................................

8

GRAND EVENTS IN A PILLARLESS BALLROOM ..................

10

THE CHANDELIERS ............................................................................

11

SOPHISTICATED SPORTS BAR .....................................................

12

THE GRAND STAIRCASE ..................................................................

14

SPIRAL .......................................................................................................

16

AN URBAN OASIS ...................................................................................

22

SUNSETS AND HISTORY .......................................................................

24

THE CANDLE RITUAL ............................................................................

25

SWEET BEGINNINGS AT SOCHILL .................................................

26

GOING LOCAL. ........................................................................................

28

THE GUEST ROOMS.................................................................................

30

THE IMPERIAL RESIDENCE.................................................................

32

A COUSU MAIN FOR PAVAROTTI .....................................................

34

NOTABLE GUESTS ....................................................................................

36

LAGOON SHAPED POOL

THE RISE OF A LEGEND The creation of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila was linked with the founding of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 1969.

In 1966, First Lady Imelda Marcos took Malacañang Palace guest of honor John D. Rockefeller Jr. for a drive along Roxas Boulevard. Pointing out where the cultural center was going to be built, the American philanthropist protested, “But Mrs. Marcos, it’s water.” The first lady replied, “On the first year, I’ll cover the soil. On the second year, I’ll drive the pile. On the third year, the building will rise. On the fourth year, the curtain will rise”.

Built to host the prestigious IMF-World Bank Annual Meeting, the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila (formerly called Philippine Plaza Hotel) was inaugurated on September 26, 1976. It was a $500 million project that at the time was the most expensive hotel ever built anywhere in the world.

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“

BUT MRS. MARCOS, IT’S WATER.

“

SOFITEL PHILIPPINE PLAZA MANILA

AT THE CENTER OF ARTS & CULTURE The Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is strategically located amid the country’s premiere art and cultural map.

In the olden days, significant national events and artistic performances such as stage plays, operas and zarzuelas were primarily held in plazas and other public places around the country. With the establishment of the 62-hectare CCP Complex, notable performances and exhibitions found their home in the heart of Manila. The place, has since cradled various local and international productions and artistic programs. The first, biggest and most expensive city resort hotel in Asia at that time, Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila was envisioned to be the home of Filipino hospitality with its world-class location and unique luxury resort ambiance. Built next to a national artist’s collection of obra maestras, Sofitel is likewise close to the Museum of Modern Arts, the National Museum, Avellana Art Gallery, the historic Intramuros, Rizal Park, and the Corregidor Island. It stands proud between the infamous Manila Film Center built in 1981 for the Manila International Film Festival and the Coconut Palace, which showcases on the versatility of coconut as a Philippine export product and now serves as residence to the Vice President of the Philippines. The first international convention center in Asia, the Philippine International Convention Center sits next to the hotel.

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AN ICONIC MASTERPIECE The vernacular renaissance in Philippine architecture reached unprecedented heights in the 1970s and Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, a Leandro Locsin signature work of art, is an extravagant celebration of Filipino identity and brilliance in contemporary design and artistry.

A celebrated icon, Leandro Locsin is the architectural genius behind unique Filipino masterpiece including the cultural center of the Philippines, Bulwagang Francisco Balagtas (now Folk Arts Theatre), the Philippine International Convention Center and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. He is the creative visionary behind the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila; the first, biggest and most expensive city resort hotel in Asia during its rise.

A step into the opulent hotel imprints a quaint allure that entwines two unique cultures and metropolitan narratives. The earth colors, illuminated pearl inlays and textures of dark wood in modern lines provide a distinct ambience – Filipino contemporary design and classic European old world charm tastefully intertwined.

The Parisian topiaries and elaborate floral arrangements, signature brand aroma, pipe-in music and classic French rituals blend impressively with the sophisticated style and splendor of the art dĂŠcor adding glamour and French elegance to a distinct Filipino masterpiece.

Sofitel’s unique lagoon-shaped pool was designed by Ildefonso Santos, another National Artist.

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THE LOBBY BAR Inspired by the world famous Parisian patisserie LeNotre, Le Bar is an innovative three-in-one concept – a bistro, patisserie and library – that offers a French bistro and Filipino à la carte menu. It brings together elements from the leading French and European patisserie and chocolaterie labels.

Galette features a state-of-the-art jewelry counter for its signature miniature cakes and decadent pastries.

Best-Kept Secret: The Bulalo at Le Bar is to die for. One of the famous Filipino dishes from Southern Luzon region, the heavenly consommé with beef shanks, marrow bones and vegetables is an absolute favorite at Sofitel.

9

GRAND PLAZA BALLROOM

GRAND EVENTS IN A PILLARLESS BALLROOM Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is a favorite events destination in the Philippines. One of its 17 meeting rooms, the elegant column-free Grand Plaza Ballroom famous for its teardrop chandeliers has repeatedly hosted events of utmost importance by heads of state, multi-national companies, and other momentous occasions such as weddings, debuts and birthday celebrations.

In 2014, the Grand Plaza Ballroom underwent a USD5 million luxurious transformation, demonstrating a magnifique evolution that embodies Filipino craftsmanship and true French elegance. It boasts of a majestic architrave of pillars, larger-than-life murals depicting modern interpretations of the major Philippine islands and the preservation of the historical Murano chandeliers.

10

FAMOUS FOR ITS TEARDROP CHANDELIERS

THE CHANDELIERS Beautifully lit, the Grand Plaza Ballroom is cast with the warm, incandescent glow of tear-shaped crystals made of Murano glass created from the island Murano in Italy.

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SNAPS SPORTS BAR

SOPHISTICATED SPORTS BAR Snaps is Sofitel’s sophisticated sports bar,

Flaming Cocktail

designed with sports aficionados in mind.

Sleek, modern interiors and large screen

Warm up with a signature cocktail that we

LCD TVs provide the optimum lounging

literally put on fire. Specially prepared by

and viewing experience, as guests may

the Snaps Manager, our flaming cocktail

select from a menu of bar favorites and an

is a must-try on your next visit for a bar

impressive array of wines and spirits.

experience that is second to none.

Inspiring,

curated

photographs

and

beautifully nostalgic shots of great sports icons adorn the stylish tavern. Such images were purchased from the web’s most popular databank at a hefty price tag of one million pesos.

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IMPRESSIVE ARRAY OF WINES AND SPIRITS

The Legends Basketball superstar Scottie Pippen enjoyed his ice-cold San Miguel Beer and signed his jersey during the NBA Legends’ stay on July 23, 2012. Larry Bird signed his on October 10, 2013. Both memorabilia are proudly displayed on the wall of Snaps Sports Bar.

One of Snaps’ signature dish is the Beef Salpicao, a personal favorite of Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao.

The team has been meaning to change its name to Beef SalPacquiao in honor of one of the Philippine’s greats in boxing history.

A Taste of Filipino Culture Cigars have been a part of the Philippines’ colorful tapestry for centuries. It is possible that tobacco use was first introduced to the country by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. Tobacco was first planted in the country in 1592 when the Spanish galleon San Clemente delivered 50kg of the finest Cuban tobacco seed, which was distributed to Spanish missionaries for cultivation, sowing the seeds of the domestic cigar industry.

Every Thursday, Snaps commemorates this piece of history with Tabacalera Incorporada (the oldest Tobacco company in the Philippines) showcasing the art of cigar hand rolling.

This 2014, the cigar company is celebrating the 25th year of its commemorative cigar set and humidor from 1989 which was especially designed for Former US President George H.W. Bush. The wrappings on the two cigars bear the printed message: “Hand-rolled especially for the Westin Philippine Plaza Hotel in 1989.” Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is the former Westin in the Philippines.

“

HAND ROLLED ESPECIALLY FOR THE WESTIN PHILIPPINE PLAZA HOTEL IN 1989.

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THE GRAND STAIRCASE The grandeur of a staircase must never be underestimated.

Descend the majestic spiral staircase and the opulence opens up to reveal the stunning 21-foot bronze masterpiece created by Philippine National Artist Eduardo Castrillo.

Mimicking the graceful development of a young plant, the “Rhythmic Movements” sculpture is the focal point of the famous Spiral restaurant complemented by a seven-foot pair, “Melodic Growth” and “Harmonious Growth.”

A photographer’s delight, the staircase is the most photographed part of the hotel. Approximately 70 photos per day or 25,200 per year are taken here.

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SPIRAL Spiral is the most interactive dining destination in the Asia Pacific Region. A Sofitel flagship, the 11 million dollar restaurant is divided into 21 dining ateliers. In France, an atelier is an artist’s special workshop, and in Spiral it is where secret recipes are masterfully prepared right before your very eyes. The range of cuisine is expansive and the attention and detail to each dish has the focus of an artisan.

The 21 dining ateliers of Spiral reflect the best of the world’s cuisines in one magnificent destination.

Spanning courses and selections featuring Salad and Appetizer, L’Écailler, Sushi Sashimi, L’Epicerie, Hot Japanese, French Stove, Rotisserie, Wood Fired Oven, Churrasco, North Indian, Asian Noodles, Peking Duck Oven, Steam Baskets, Chinese Wok, Filipino, Thai, Korean, La Boulangerie, La Patisserie, Chocolaterie and Creamery.

First Guest Previous French Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, during his first state visit to the Philippines, was the first guest to discover the restaurant prior to its opening in 2012.

La Veranda The highlight of the new Spiral, La Veranda is an indoor lounge that opens to an outdoor terrace with four gazebos leading to the iconic lagoon-shaped pool the hotel is famous for. One can literally watch the sun, the moon and the stars in the sky from the comfort of a glass enclosed 1930’s art deco Parisian style bar.

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Behind the Bike

De-Light

The story of Spiral bicycle began during

Ask for the drink of the day on your visit

the celebration of the famous cycling race

to Spiral and delight your taste buds with

Le Tour de France in July 2013. Originally

the delicious selection of calorie-controlled

a wine and gastronomy event promoting

juices and beverages.

four different French regions, the guests’ interest in taking photos of the rider

Most of the ingredients for our de-light

dressed in classic French outfit prompted

drinks come directly from our very own

the team to retain the animation as one of

garden to ensure quality and freshness.

Spiral’s signature elements.

Our Basil, Calamansi, Mint and Rosemary are grown in-house.

The bicycle first rolled wheels in France at the end of the 18th century during the revolution. It is now the common means of transportation of French postmen.

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Philippine Oranges

advanced technology. Fall in love with our delicious naan bread and spiced meats

Originally from China, dalandans are now

freshly cooked and served straight from

considered as the Philippine oranges. Those

unique clay ovens that reach up to 480째C.

small green citrus that gives a tangy, tasty

Our tandoori ovens are specially flown in

and refreshing juice gives 10 times more

from India to capture the flavors and aromas

vitamin C than regular oranges. Delight

inspired by maharajahs.

your day with a freshly squeezed dalandan juice at Spiral.

The Untold Story of Xialongbao Traditional Cooking Prior to renovation, the master chefs were Revel in the unique flavors of world favorite

sent on a mission to travel the world in

cuisines at Spiral cooked the traditional way.

search of signature dishes that would be offered at Spiral. One of the stops assigned

The highlight of the French atelier, the 10

to Executive Chef Eric Costille was Hong

million peso Bonnet Stove is custom-made

Kong where he was given the task to find

for Spiral and was shipped in from France.

the best xiaolongbao and come back with

The finest brand in cooking suites, it is a

its secret recipe.

masterpiece that combines tradition with 19

The Peking Duck Oven

Cheese Room

China’s national dish and among the most

Spiral’s Cheese Room boasts of a wide

celebrated dishes in Beijing is one of the

variety of cheeses and delis from all over

highlights of Spiral’s 21 dining ateliers.

the world. The famous French cheeses such as the Camembert, Brie de Meaux

Your favorite perfectly-roasted Peking Duck

and Reblochon are among the favorites

goes back to the tradition of the Emperor’s

including the Manchego that is produced

Palace in Beijing during the imperial times.

in the La Mancha region of Spain, which is

It was fully developed during the Ming

also home to Don Quixote.

Dynasty, and was one of the main dishes on imperial court menus.

Unknown to many, Spiral also carries locally made cheeses to support the local cottage industry. Our blue cheese, for instance,

Rotisserie

comes from Malagos Farm in Davao.

The world’s favorite chicken skewered on a spit is of French origin. It first appeared in Paris shops around 1450. At Spiral, the Labesse Rotisserie not only allows the culinary team to showcase healthier cuisine, but also completes the guest’s sensory experience.

Cracked Chocolates Sofitel General Manager Mr. Adam Laker recalls how his mother made chocolates when he was a child. She made them in baking trays and cracked them for his enjoyment. It’s amazing how the senses can stir pretty strong emotions and bring back fond childhood memories. As with special things moms make at home, our cracked chocolates are so unique and made with love they can’t be found anywhere else.

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FRENCH STOVE

CHEESE ROOM

Green Growth and Sustainable

Named after the place of its origin, Bulacan’s

Development

Barangay Encanto, Enchanted Farm is the canvas for Gawad Kalinga’s second phase

Your favorite vegetables at Spiral are

of the 2024 road map to end poverty in the

grown organically by local farmers. One

Philippines.

of our partners, the Toscana Farm, has an impressive array of produce on offer, most

The first concept is a Village University

of them grown in their own greenhouses.

for sustainable community development

Large eggplants great for parmigiana,

where

vine-ripened tomatoes, yellow and red bell

communities. The second component of

peppers, potted herbs, melons, papayas,

The Enchanted Farm is a Silicon Valley

and lettuce, among others, inspire healthy

for social entrepreneurship where young

eating at Spiral. From Tagaytay that boasts

entrepreneurs coming straight from the

of relaxing chilly climate and the smallest

best

active volcano in the world, Mr. Fred

schools (fresh graduates) are selected to

Ammann started the Old Kano’s Farm as

work in the Philippines and bring ideas to

a hobby and has grown it into producing

help launch Filipino brands.

classrooms

French

are

marketing

connected

and

to

business

wide variety of herbs, salad crops, edible flowers and exotic vegetables.

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AN URBAN OASIS Explore Sofitel’s verdant surrounds and awe-inspiring pool area and enjoy the spectacular view of the Manila Bay sunset. The lagoon-shaped swimming pool, which is the biggest recreational pool in the city, and lush landscaped greenery were designed by Ildefonso P. Santos, pioneer of landscape architecture in the country. This unique tropical setting makes Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila an idyllic oasis unrivalled in the city.

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SUNSETS AND HISTORY World famous Manila Bay sunsets are best enjoyed from the Sunset Bar. On clear days, the mountains of Bataan, the historic Corregidor Island, and the bustling strip of Cavite can be viewed from this vantage point.

MANILA BAY WAS INSTRUMENTAL

Manila Bay was instrumental in shaping the country’s historic and socio-economic development. It played a pivotal role along with the La Naval de Manila in enforcing

IN SHAPING THE COUNTRY’S

a stop gate against the Dutch trials in seizing the country

HISTORIC AND

in 1646. It similarly factored as a significant site during the

SOCIO-ECONOMIC

Spanish-American War in 1898.

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DEVELOPMENT

THE CANDLE RITUAL One of the brand rituals performed in all Sofitel properties around the world, the candle ritual takes its inspiration from France. In Paris, under reign of King Louis XIV, Gabriel Nicolas de la Reynie (1625 – 1709) had been nominated by Prime Minister Colbert as first General of Police.

From 1667 to 1697, he had implemented public lighting in Paris to ensure safety in the streets at night and allow nighttime outings for socializing. Candle men would go to each street after sunset to light lanterns.

From there, Paris was called Ville Lumière or City of Light.

To celebrate the night, the Candle Ritual is performed at Spiral and in the hotel lobby.

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SWEET BEGINNINGS AT SOCHILL The picturesque SoChill is the pride of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila when it comes to wedding proposals. To date, romantic destination boasts of 100% success rates for engagements.

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GOING LOCAL Sofitel is known for its unique brand of French elegance and local culture. At Sunset Bar, we pay tribute to our local heritage by using local products and designs. The roof bar is 100% Filipino, made from locally sourced coconut lumber.

Delectable cuisines are served on locally made hand-carved wooden plates from Paete, Laguna. The placemats are made of nito and the food covers, inspired by the mosquito net used to keep mosquitoes away

from

sleeping

babies,

were

handcrafted meticulously by local artisans from Batangas.

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THE GUEST ROOMS Since the introduction of the Sofitel brand in 2007, the entire Philippine Plaza Hotel has been restored with modern, minimalist interiors and traditional touches of native decor.

The guest rooms that cost at least USD100,000 each at the time of construction have been recently renovated by the renowned HOK of Hong Kong and Spin Design Studio of Japan; carefully keeping the architecture intact and faithful to the original, well-served intent.

Sofitel’s 609 rooms and suites boast of private balconies overlooking panoramic views of the bay or the bustling city. Finishing touches include French luxury amenities by Lanvin and Hermes.

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IMPERIAL RESIDENCE BEDROOM

THE IMPERIAL RESIDENCE The Imperial Residence is the most prestigious and luxurious collection of suites in Manila. With an investment of over USD1 million, its magnificent opulence makes for an ideal sanctuary within the city, fit for royalty, celebrity and heads of state.

Designed by the world-renowned Spin Design Studio of Japan, the Imperial Residence is the epitome of luxurious indulgence and fine living that has been home to some of the world’s most illustrious personalities.

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MOST PRESTIGIOUS AND LUXURIOUS COLLECTION OF SUITES IN MANILA

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A COUSU MAIN FOR PAVAROTTI Tailor-made service or “Cousu Main” in French is Sofitel’s personal brand of hospitality. Each guest has unique needs and each Sofitel Ambassador ensures delivery of excellent service from the heart.

Back in 1994, the highly-anticipated performance of legendary tenor Luciano Pavarotti in Manila did not push through as scheduled. Falling ill and losing his voice due to colds, the appearance had to be cancelled on the very night of the scheduled performance at the PICC. The concert was re-scheduled two days later upon partial recuperation and the recovery of his voice.

The

Ambassadors

fondly

recall

the

improvised

transportation of the renowned opera tenor from the 11th floor Imperial Residence to the hotel lobby via the ‘bell service trolley express’ to prevent any further strain to his voice. The musical engagement was an evening to remember for the Filipino nation while in Sofitel it left a footprint as part of its series of heartwarming tales on service that exceeds expectation.

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NOTABLE GUESTS Luciano Pavarotti, 1994 Westlife, 1999 James Ferragamo, 2007 Tony Blair, 2009 Brunei Royalty Mohammed Bolkiah, 2009 Hillary Clinton, 2010 Al Gore, 2010 East Timor President Jose Ramos Horta, 2010 Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev, 2010 Thai President Abhisit Vejjajiva, 2010 Justin Timberlake, 2010 Mexican First Lady Margarita Zavala, 2011 French Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, 2012 Miss World Yu Wenxia, 2013 Larry Bird, 2013 Dennis Rodman, 2013 Scottie Pippen, 2013 Houston Rockets and the Pacers Team, 2014 Miss World Maegan Young, 2014 Jessica Sanchez, 2014 Sergey Bubka, 2014 Mariah Carey, 2014 Philippine President Benigno Aquino III 36