Here Are the Five Philippine Hotels Awarded with MICHELIN Keys for Outstanding Stays

(SPOT.ph) Five Philippine hotels have earned the highly coveted MICHELIN Key—the highest honor the Michelin Guide bestows on hotels and resorts.

What began with just six Philippine hotels joining the Guide in 2024 has quickly grown to 11 in early 2025, and now to 20 as of August. Among them, Raffles and Fairmont Makati, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao, and Amanpulo have each been awarded one Michelin Key, further cementing the Philippines’ reputation as a world-class hospitality destination.

Here’s a quick refresher on what a Michelin Key means—and why this recognition matters for Philippine tourism and hospitality.

Also read:
Is the Michelin Guide Coming to Manila? Here's What We've Heard
The Michelin Guide Added Nine More Philippine Hotels to Its Roster of Recommendations

In a nutshell, the Michelin Keys are the hotel and resort equivalent of the much-coveted restaurant Michelin stars. Beyond being Michelin-approved, which is implied by inclusion in the guide, the Michelin Key recognizes the best of the best hotels for their outstanding stays.

Just like there’s a secret team of Michelin inspectors for restaurants, there’s also one for hotels. But instead of obsessing over amenities, they look at the whole experience—from the feel of the space to the way you’re treated the moment you arrive. Their checklist covers five universal criteria: excellence in architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, distinct personality and character, value for money, and a meaningful contribution to the surrounding community or setting.

Hotels recognized by the Michelin Guide can earn One, Two, or Three Keys. One Key marks "a very special stay," a true gem with personality, where service goes the extra mile and the experience exceeds what you’d expect for the price. Two Keys signal "an exceptional stay," specifically the kind of place that’s unique in every way and guarantees a memorable experience. And Three Keys? If you ever find yourself near one, do yourself a favor and stay the night. It’s the pinnacle of hospitality, "an extraordinary stay—" where comfort, service, and design come together in perfect harmony.

The Michelin Keys were first announced in April 2024, with selections revealed in 15 key countries across North America, Europe, and Asia. But for 2025, this has expanded to include every hotel in the selection, regardless of location.

2025 marks the Philippines' first appearance on the Michelin Key stage, and our debut features the recognition of five Philippine hotels as One Key hotels. As the Michelin Guide says, these five hotels "reflect the nation’s unparalleled warmth and natural beauty."

Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort sits on the tip of Mactan Island, a quick drive away from the airport. But despite its proximity to the hub, a stay at Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu feels like being in your own little bubble away from the city's hustle and bustle.

What the Guide says: "Rooms are bright and comfortable, many with balconies made for sunset-watching. Spaces are generous, especially in the suites, and the Namm Spa is everything you could ask a Thai hotel spa to be. A stylish Thai restaurant and breezy beachside bar complete the scene, all anchored by a lobby that feels more like a tropical stage set than a check-in desk. Meanwhile, the infinity pool is one of the most impressive in the region."

How much is a stay per night: When booking directly from the resort's website, stays at Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort start at P8,161 per night (exclusive of taxes).

It almost comes as no surprise that the luxury resort Amanpulo received the coveted Key. After all, the brand itself is known for top-notch service blended with absolutely beautiful properties across the globe. Their resort in Pamalican Island, Palawan, is a preferred escape for VIPs hoping to get away from their busy schedules and prying eyes. Here, guests stay in luxurious casitas and villas, and get to do activities like scuba diving, kite surfing, and cruises.

What the Guide says: "As is the Aman custom, this resort strives to blend in with its natural and cultural surroundings as much as possible. Here the 42 casitas and 18 villas are built in the style of the native Philippine bathay kubo dwellings, with thatched roofs and pebble-washed walls alongside luxe touches like king beds with rattan headboards and ornate indigenous-style furnishings. "

How much is a stay per night: When booking from the Michelin Guide website and app, stays at Amanpulo start at P111,726 per night (inclusive of taxes).

Fairmont Makati blends modern luxury with the warmth of home. Set in the heart of the Ayala CBD, it’s just a short walk from top malls, museums, and some of Makati’s most well-loved spots. The rooms are sleek, softly lit, and effortlessly cozy—perfect for unwinding after a long day. Whether you’re a business traveler looking to impress or simply craving a refined city staycation, this hotel nails that calm, classy vibe.

What the Guide says: "With [Fairmont Makati's] spacious, elegant rooms and suites featuring king-sized beds, floor-to-ceiling windows with city skyline views, and marble bathrooms stocked with Le Labo products. Highlights are what you’d expect from the brand: a sparkling swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and sunbeds, a light-filled 24-hour fitness center, the signature Fairmont Spa, and a collection of upscale restaurants and bars."

How much is a stay per night: When booking from the Michelin Guide website and app, rooms at Fairmont Makati start at P16,772 per night (inclusive of taxes).

Sharing the same complex as Fairmont, Raffles Makati exudes quiet elegance. With only 32 suites, it offers a more intimate, personalized experience. The aesthetic is old-world charm meets modern glam. It’s the kind of staycation that feels like an indulgent step above the everyday.

What the Guide says: "Every room[at Raffles Makati] is a sophisticated suite with dark wood flooring, a marble bathroom, original artwork, and private butler service. There’s a private pool, tiled in bright blue with an elegant poolside bar, and complimentary afternoon tea and cocktails at Writers Bar."

How much is a stay per night: When booking from the Michelin Guide website and app, rooms at Raffles Makati start at P25, 501 per night (inclusive of taxes).

Siargao may be known as a backpacker's paradise but if you're the kind of traveler who prefers more private luxury experiences, then Nay Palad Hideaway formerly called Dedon Island Resort is the place for you.

What the Guide says: "Nay Palad Hideaway, on Siargao’s southern coast, is the sort of low-key, sustainably built resort where you can kick off your flip-flops and go barefoot." Of its villas, the guide calls them "really something to write home about."

How much is a stay per night: When booking from the Michelin Guide website and app, rooms at stays at Nay Palad Hideaway Siargao start at P173, 731 per night (inclusive of taxes).

This recognition means a lot for a country whose tourism sector contributes 8.9% to the country's GDP, which is a Direct Gross Value Added of about P2.35 trillion in 2024, as reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

With recognitions like this further proving the Philippines as a great destination for travelers, there's a lot of hope for growth in our tourism sector. And while earning Michelin Keys doesn't necessarily equate to having Michelin-starred restaurants (as these are evaluated independently), it's still a good indicator telling us that we are seen, and our industries are more than ripe for global recognition courtesy of the Michelin Guide. We're thinking there's a good chance that some Philippine restaurants also get the nod in the much-awaited Michelin Star awarding ceremonies.

For more information, visit the MICHELIN Guide's website.