DAVAO CITY – The management of the Marco Polo Hotel Davao confirmed to Mindanao Journal in an interview that the reopening of the first and only five-star hotel in Mindanao is underway.
Francis Ledesma, president of the hotel owner Halifax Hotel Davao Inc. said that they will start soon with massive and thorough rehabilitation, refurbishing, and recruitment of management staff, and other hotel personnel who will undergo training.
“We want to give back to Davao City the prestige of what was once the iconic hotel that Dabawenyos are proud of. While we want to open soon, we are cautious we do not sacrifice the quality that our clients expect from us,” Ledesma added.
On June 15, 2020, the 22-year-old Marco Polo Davao ceased operations because of the economic fallout from COVID-19.
More than 200 hotel workers are affected by the decision to cease operations.
However, during the closure, Ledesma assured that the laid-off employees will get priority for hiring once they decided to reopen again.
Premier hotel
The hotel opened in 1998, with 245-room. It became the tallest building in Davao City until the entry of high-rise offices and residential towers in the mid-2010s.
It is a sleek 18-story hotel situated downtown in the heart of the business and commercial district.
The 17th and 18th floor is called the Continental floor wherein the 17th floor is where the club lounge is located and at the 18th floor is the majestic Presidential Suite.
The 4th floor is where the premiere restaurant is located – the Polo Bistro and one of the best spas in Davao – the Lazuli Spa.
The 4th floor is also where the gym, pool with pool bar, and cabana rooms are located.
The 3rd floor is where you find the best Cantonese food in town – The Lotus Court and Jade function rooms.
Ballrooms 1,2, and 3 and the main restaurant of the hotel the Cafè Marco is located on the second floor.
The ground floor is where the main lobby, some function rooms, the front desk area, the lobby lounge cafè, and Eagle’s bar are located. ###