Cebu-based, award-winning property developer AppleOne Group, Inc. (AppleOne) broke ground in Bohol, one of the Philippines most visited and sought-after tourist destinations, for JW Marriott Panglao Island Resort & Spa, the first luxury resort & spa on the island, and JW Marriott Residences Panglao Island, a luxury residential development.
Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Fraso led the groundbreaking ceremony in Panglao Island, joined by Ray Go Manigsaca, President and CEO of AppleOne, and Duke Nam, Area Vice President for Korea & Philippines, Marriott International. The event marked the official start of a transformative project poised to redefine Bohol’s tourism.
Slated for completion in 2027, the landmark development is poised to attract both local and international visitors, further solidifying Bohol’s status as a premier tourism destination within the country. Secretary Frasco expressed gratitude to AppleOne for its steadfast support and investments in hotels and resorts.
These contributions have played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for transforming the Philippines into a prominent tourism destination in the Asia-Pacific region.
Secretary Frasco congratulated the province of Bohol, JW Marriott, and AppleOne. She expressed gratitude to AppleOne for its steadfast support, recognizing its role in transforming the Philippines into a prominent tourism hub.
“This signals global confidence in the Philippines’ continuing resurgence and emergence in the global tourism market, and spells more economic opportunities for our fellow Filipinos, increased livelihood, and the continuing contribution of tourism to our overall economic growth,” she said.
Local government leaders in Bohol, spearheaded by Governor Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado, have voiced their support for this transformative project. They acknowledge the vast economic prospects associated with the project, anticipating a boost in the tourism industry’s pace of recovery. This, in turn, is expected to generate new employment opportunities for the residents of Bohol, while simultaneously contributing to the growth of the domestic micro, small and medium enterprise industry in Bohol and its surrounding areas.
Ray Manigsaca thanked the attendees during the groundbreaking ceremony, highlighting the project’s commitment to regional progress. He emphasized the partnership with Marriott International and the shared vision for exceptional hospitality in the Philippines, underscoring the investment’s significance in Bohol’s future.
“With our strong relationship with Marriott Int built on trust and a shared vision for creating better hospitality and residential experiences in the Philippines, we are able to bring a globally respected brand like JW Marriott to the shores of Panglao. Our investment into this project is an investment into Bohol, and consequently an investment into the progress of our country,” Manigsaca said.
The development will be situated on an idyllic beachfront 7-hectare site in Bohol offering unobstructed views of Maribojoc Bay and surrounded by lush parkland. Its proximity to renowned attractions, such as the Panglao fish sanctuary, ideal for snorkeling and deep diving, adds to its allure.
Award-winning Architect Blink Design Group took a modern approach to luxury through the design of the masterplan, architecture, and interiors, which showcase Bohol’s rich heritage and natural beauty. The development will feature dramatic and distinctive interior features, serene spaces for moments of reflection and mindful experiences, and warmth in the design that will convey tactile experiences.
JW Marriott Panglao Island Resort & Spa
Inspired by the tranquility and beauty of its natural landscapes, the luxury resort is set to have 80 spacious guest rooms. Programming and environments have been designed to encourage guests to be fully present, foster meaningful connections and seek a balance in mind, body, and spirit.
Proposed hotel plans include a pool, fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment, Spa by JW Marriott, JW Garden that will be a sustainable source of fresh herbs and vegetables and will be a center for kids programming dedicated for their education and enrichment, and a range of on-site F&B options that offer unique and imaginative dining experiences.
JW Marriott Residences Panglao Island
Rooted in sophistication, JW Marriott Residences Panglao Island is set to become a haven for homeowners who seek a resort-inspired ultra-premium lifestyle paired with holistic well-being experiences and exceptional services such as dedicated concierge, in-residence dining, and housekeeping.
The Residences will feature around 70 private homes with luxurious appointments ranging from 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and villas to cater to different lifestyles and preferences, complete with exclusive residents-only amenities including a pool, lounge, Kid’s Club, a library, a yoga pavilion, a music room, a rock-climbing gym, and an outdoor recreation. Residence owners can expect VIP treatment while living at the Residence and when staying at participating Marriott International hotels and resorts worldwide.
“We are delighted to be a part of this journey with AppleOne to introduce the JW Marriott brand to the Philippines. The natural beauty of Bohol, coupled with its vibrant culture and the genuine warmth of Filipino hospitality, create the perfect setting for JW Marriott Panglao Island Resort and Residences.” said Duke Nam, Area Vice President for Korea & Philippines, Marriott International.
The groundbreaking ceremony also saw the presence of other key figures, including DOT Undersecretary Ferdinand Jumapao, Bohol First District Representative Edgardo Chatto, Former Congressman and Bohol Vice Governor Rene Relampagos, Dauis Mayor Roman Bullen and Vice Mayor Marietta Sumaylo, and Bohol Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte. Hosted by Pauline Amelinckx, the event marked the beginning of a transformative venture that aims to redefine luxury hospitality in Bohol.
JW Marriott Panglao Island Resort & Spa will be AppleOne’s third property managed by Marriott International after the successful opening of Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, and the Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mactan within the former’s mixed-use development Mahi Center.
AppleOne and its leaders have been delivering on their commitment in developing the country’s regions, and in bringing international luxury brands to the Philippines. The company is known for their innovative and luxurious real estate developments, and has an extensive portfolio of hospitality, mixed-use, and residential properties in the VisMin.
