Araneta Hotels Inc. proudly marks a significant milestone in its leadership journey, with women now holding ten of the fifteen executive committee positions across Novotel Manila Araneta City and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City. This achievement underscores the depth of the organization’s internal talent and reflects a culture where leaders rise through dedication, expertise, and sustained performance.
The strong representation of women in key decision-making roles highlights the company’s commitment to merit-based advancement and inclusive growth. It also reinforces alignment with Accor’s global mission to foster equitable opportunities and cultivate workplaces where diverse leadership can thrive. At Accor, diversity, equity, and inclusion are deeply embedded in corporate culture—recognizing that meaningful human connections, innovation, and strong performance are driven by teams where individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute authentically.
Unified Leadership Built on Diversity, Strength, and Heart
Leadership at Araneta Hotels Inc. is shaped by the complementary strengths of men and women working together toward a shared purpose. This balanced approach blends empathy with strategy, consistency with creativity, and care with operational excellence. By embracing diverse perspectives and lived experiences, the organization approaches challenges with greater insight and delivers guest experiences grounded in both compassion and quality—strengthening the cultures of Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City.
Women Leading with Purpose
At the heart of this evolution is Cluster General Manager Maria Manlulu-Garcia, whose leadership across both properties is anchored in purpose, empathy, and operational discipline. Supporting her are two accomplished women who play pivotal roles in shaping each hotel’s direction.
At Novotel Manila Araneta City, Hotel Manager Joy De Mesa drives commercial performance and service excellence through her extensive background in operations and sales, with a leadership style focused on consistency, guest connection, and continuous improvement.
At ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, Resident Manager Felicia Aye Chan Mon brings global brand expertise and a creative, guest-centric mindset. Her energetic leadership nurtures a service culture that is dynamic, expressive, and true to the ibis Styles identity, delivering memorable experiences for every guest.
Women Rising Through the Ranks
Araneta Hotels Inc. also celebrates the inspiring journeys of women who have grown within the organization and now lead critical functions across both hotels.
Marife Tolentino, who began as Accounting Manager in 2015, now serves as Cluster Director of Finance. She leads strategic financial planning, strengthens internal controls, and ensures fiscal discipline—safeguarding the financial health of both properties while supporting long-term growth.
Joining Novotel Manila in 2018 as Talent and Culture Manager, Kristine Alba now holds the role of Cluster Director of People and Culture. She champions initiatives that enhance employee engagement, talent development, and a people-first workplace built on empathy, inclusivity, and meaningful connection.
Starting as Guest Relations Manager in 2015, Therese Galindo now leads Guest Experience, Sustainability, and Safety. She has been instrumental in elevating service standards and spearheading sustainability initiatives, including achieving Green Key certification for both hotels—affirming their commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism.
Among the emerging leaders, Janelle Crisostomo advanced from Rooms Division Manager in 2023 to Director of Rooms. Under her leadership, Novotel Manila celebrated its 10th anniversary with a major milestone: its Presidential Suite being named Philippines’ Leading Hotel Suite 2025 at the World Travel Awards. Her focus on product excellence, guest touchpoints, and operational adaptability continues to elevate the rooms experience.
May Malagamba, who joined Novotel Manila in 2018 as Director of Events Management and now leads Food and Beverage, exemplifies passion and persistence. Her division has earned multiple accolades, including Best F&B Performer at the Accor Asia Awards 2023 and Best Breakfast Satisfaction 2024, reflecting her commitment to creativity, precision, and heartfelt service.
Also exemplifying upward growth is Kim Escaler, who began as Reservations Supervisor in 2015 and now serves as Cluster Director of Revenue Management. Her analytical acumen and commercial insight drive revenue strategies that balance guest value with sustainable business performance.
At ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, Izza Mojica leads as Director of Rooms after starting her journey as Duty Manager at Novotel in 2017. Her frontline experience, resilience, and service-driven mindset have shaped her leadership approach and deep understanding of both guest expectations and team dynamics.
Shaping the Future of Hospitality
The growing prominence of women in leadership reflects a broader shift within the hospitality industry—where emotional intelligence, adaptability, resilience, and a people-focused approach are essential to long-term success. At Araneta Hotels Inc., empowering women at all levels strengthens innovation, enriches team culture, and fosters inclusive decision-making.
With these women at the forefront, Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City continue to set benchmarks for progressive hospitality in the Philippines. Their collective leadership signals a future defined by purpose-driven management, cultural transformation, and a deep commitment to uplifting people and communities. Araneta Hotels Inc. remains steadfast in championing diversity, nurturing talent, and celebrating the transformative impact of women in hospitality.
