History is made and Pinoy Pride is heightened as Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is the first and only hotel-resort to achieve the feat of being bestowed the prestigious title of Best Historic Hotel in the country.
When the pandemic struck in 2020, the whole world shifted gigantically. The norm was changed, especially in the business landscape. Small, medium and big—all types of businesses were mercilessly hit by the unexpected repercussions of a world struggling against the grueling invisible enemy: COVID-19.
Amongst the various industries, hospitality was one that took an obvious blow. This is one knockout that experts expect a long recovery period from. Closures, low income, lay-offs, burdening operational expenses—someone in this business wouldn’t be expected to continue with something like restoring and maintaining heritage houses. But founder and owner of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, Jose “Jerry” Acuzar, and his special team of artisans and builders chose to courageously break this notion. For this lot, the pandemic was not a sign to cease and desist. Instead, it was a barrier to cross over in order to reach their greatest feat yet: Las Casas Filipinas bagging the Best Historic Hotel in Asia and the Pacific accolade from Historic Hotels Worldwide Awards of Excellence.
The prestigious title is given to historic hotels and hoteliers that have exemplified innovative leadership, stewardship and contribution to furthering the recognition, preservation and celebration of these preeminent historic hotels and their histories. The ceremony wherein the said award was presented transpired last November 11 at The American Club Resort Hotel in Kohler, Wisconsin.
Through Mr. Acuzar’s acceptance speech, one can easily realize what a truly momentous honor this is for Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. He mentioned in his special video message, “…With all the hardships in our country, it became scarce to give support and importance to heritage and restoration. That’s why we are deeply thankful for this attention.”
In tune with his gratitude for the organization that recognized his esteemed estate, Mr. Acuzar also extended his appreciation to the others who have been present with him in this shaky season. Specifically, he shared the limelight with his company of artists and craftsmen. Those of which who persevered in their demanding work of preserving the legacies of various neglected and deteriorating homes and structures from different provinces, through their innovative method of dismantling, relocating and rebuilding.
This accolade is not only hard-earned because of the blood, sweat and tears they’ve put into their efforts. It is a historic and deserved win, too, as the competition for the award was very stiff. Amongst the list of contenders were also revered historic hotels such as Deogarh Mahal Rajasthan, Raffles Singapore, Beijing Hotel NUO, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor and The Murray Hong Kong.
Even prior to the pandemic, the work that Mr. Acuzar and his team have executed is no easy feat. Looking back on his journey since the grand opening of Las Casas Filipinas way back 2010, he shared, “Although it was not an easy endeavor, it has been the most rewarding in my entire journey in real estate development. We take pride to have revived the craftsmanship industry that generated thousands of jobs in my hometown, and most importantly, the renewed sense of belonging and pride of our countrymen in our own culture and heritage.”
A Journey to the Past
A visit to the newly appointed Best Historic Hotel or Las Casas Filipinas will transport you to a time in history that many have only experienced or probably glossed over in history books. Within the 400 meticulously developed area, sits 64 heritage houses that sport a fusion of modern design along with touches of European, Spanish and Filipino architecture that root from a bygone era. Walk through the cobblestone streets and you will be greeted with manicured gardens, mid-century bridges and 34 historically significant structures that have been well-maintained. A lovely journey to the past—the esteemed estate offers an in depth experience of what true traditional grandeur is like in modern times.
Book a stay in Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bagac, Bataan via their website.
