Richmonde Hotel Ortigas Celebrates 26 Years of Shaping Future Hospitality Leaders

Richmonde Hotel Ortigas (RHO) has always been more than just a place of work—it’s been a place of growth, learning, and leadership development.

For 26 years, RHO has cultivated a thriving environment where employees are not only hired but also mentored and empowered to become the next generation of hospitality leaders. What started as a vision in 1999 has flourished into a remarkable legacy, one that is evident in the success stories of its many employees who began their careers at RHO and have since risen to influential positions in the industry.

At the heart of RHO’s enduring success is its unique approach to talent development. Rather than focusing solely on experience, RHO has always prioritized potential, character, and a commitment to excellence. This approach has allowed the hotel to foster an impressive percentage of homegrown talent, with 85% of its current managerial team having risen through the ranks from within the hotel itself.

A Legacy of Growth: From Humble Beginnings to Leadership Roles

Since its opening in 1999, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas has served as a nurturing ground for passionate individuals looking to make a mark in the hospitality industry. Many of those who started with little more than raw potential have gone on to make significant strides, with some still contributing to the hotel's legacy, while others have ventured into broader roles within the hospitality sector.

Take Jun Justo, for example. As the current Cluster General Manager for NCR+ at Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR) and General Manager of Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, Jun’s journey began at RHO as Rooms Division Manager in 2007. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, taking on key leadership roles within the organization and ultimately expanding his influence within the MHR umbrella. He attributes much of his growth to the culture at RHO: “At Richmonde, we focus on nurturing talent. It’s always been about recognizing potential and providing opportunities to step up,” Jun shares.

Empowering Talent: The Richmonde Hotel Way

Under the management of MHR, RHO continues to honor its legacy of leadership development. The culture of mentorship and continuous learning is stronger than ever, with a focus on providing not only hands-on training but also a sense of trust and empowerment that drives employees to excel. According to Oliver Esguerra, the current General Manager of Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, the integration with MHR has expanded opportunities for staff members. “Our team members now have access to a broader range of opportunities within the growing MHR portfolio, allowing them to take on leadership roles across multiple properties,” he explains.

This broader scope of growth has also meant more opportunities for employees to explore new avenues within the hospitality industry. For Annie Dioso, Cluster Director of Communications for Richmonde Hotels, the company’s unwavering trust in its people was instrumental in her career development. She started as an Executive Assistant in 2000 and credits her success to the strong support from management and the collaborative environment at RHO. “Richmonde is a place where you feel supported, where you’re given the opportunity to grow, and where the culture encourages you to take on new challenges,” Annie shares.

A Culture of Collaboration and Excellence

The collaborative environment at RHO has also been a key factor in the personal and professional development of many employees. Myca Bonoan, who joined the hotel as a Sales Executive in 2020 just before the pandemic lockdown, has quickly ascended to the role of Assistant Director of Sales. She attributes much of her success to the supportive team environment and the culture of excellence fostered by RHO. “Even during tough times, Richmonde offered opportunities for growth and leadership,” Myca says. “The company is always looking for ways to help employees develop new skills and take on new responsibilities.”

Her experience is a testament to the hotel’s commitment to providing a platform for young professionals to grow and shine. “The values I’ve learned at Richmonde—teamwork, adaptability, and a commitment to exceptional service—are what have shaped me into the leader I am today,” Myca reflects. Looking ahead, Myca hopes to pass on her knowledge to future generations of hospitality professionals, helping them grow and make their own mark on the industry.

Continuing the Tradition: Fostering Innovation and Excellence

For Axel Zapanta, who began his journey as an HR Assistant in 2017 and now serves as PMD Manager, the most rewarding aspect of working at RHO has been the environment of encouragement and innovation. “Richmonde is a place where employees are empowered to strive for excellence. It’s a culture that doesn’t just talk about innovation—it makes it happen,” Axel shares.

As Richmonde Hotel Ortigas celebrates its 26th anniversary, it stands as a shining example of how a commitment to mentorship, leadership development, and a culture of trust can create lasting success. The hotel’s legacy is not just defined by its business achievements, but by the people who have grown alongside it. RHO remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders, ensuring that its legacy of excellence continues to thrive for years to come.

The journey of Richmonde Hotel Ortigas is far from over, and with its unwavering commitment to its people, the future is looking brighter than ever.