Marcos sees 20k jobs from ‘mega’ hotel operations

MANILA, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday said he was confident about the creation of around "20,000 direct and indirect jobs" throughout the operation of Megaworld's Grand Westside Hotel in the coming years. In his speech during its ceremonial opening in Paraaque City, Marcos said the Grand Westside Hotel was expected to strengthen the entry of more tourists in the country and generate more jobs, business, and opportunities for Filipinos. "In fact, [while] many have benefitted from the actual construction of these [properties]around 20,000 direct and indirect jobs will still be created throughout the operation of this hotel in the years to come," Marcos said. "Having developed many hotels and other tourism-related establishments around the country, Megaworld has shown that it is a true partner in national development and a great builder of dreams and sustainable communities in our society," he added. Marcos said that the Grand Westside Hotel proved that the government and the private sector could work together to uplift the lives of many Filipinos through tourism-centered programs and partnerships.

"Our work together can help empower the Filipino [people] in ways that will allow them to contribute to society and to enjoy themselves while doing that," the President said. "I'm confident in the lasting and powerful outcome of your work in these collaborations," he added. Considered the biggest hotel development in the Philippines to date, the Grand Westside Hotel is a 1,530-room structure situated in Metro Manila's "Entertainment City." It offers a wide array of services, amenities, and leisure that can cater to the demands of the growing tourism industry in the country. "Not only can we accommodate the resurging number of local and international tourists coming to this side of Metro Manila, but we can also expect our entertainment city to become better known and even more distinguished, elevating its status to more potential visitors in the coming years," Marcos said. "Indeed, world-class experiences are awaiting the guests of this grand hotel," the President added. Meanwhile, Marcos expressed delight as Alliance Global Group Inc. President Kevin Tan hinted about the upcoming Grand Opera House, opening of more theaters, and a gaming complex, expected to generate more jobs and opportunities for Filipinos. "With all these, we foresee not only the entry of more tourists but also the generation of more jobs, of new businesses, and of greater opportunity," Marcos said. The President said he was looking forward to Megaworld's triumph in their work that will "undoubtedly contribute to the new Philippines, ang Bagong Pilipinas" being built. "Indeed, all of us share the desire to raise sustainable, complete, [and] well-rounded communities that even the next generations can enjoy," Marcos said.

"With the seal of quality stamped wherever the name Megaworld appears be it condominiums, malls, or office buildings I'm confident in the lasting and powerful outcome of your work and these collaborations," he added.