Landco’s John Hay Hotels: Promoting Cordillera Culture & Local Sustainability

In Partnership with Mountain Man to Promote Indigenous Flavors and Culture in Baguio

Nestled amid the cool pine-scented breezes of Baguio City, John Hay Hotels is redefining luxury hospitality with purpose. More than just a destination, it is becoming a living tribute to Cordillera heritage, thanks to its dynamic collaboration with Mountain Man, the renowned culinary brand led by the Romawac family. Deeply rooted in indigenous food traditions, this partnership celebrates culture, empowers communities, and delivers an experience that nourishes both the palate and the soul.

Behind this transformative initiative is Landco Lifestyle Ventures (LLV), the hospitality arm of Landco Pacific Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation under the leadership of Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan. LLV manages John Hay Hotels and is fully committed to promoting sustainable tourism and community upliftment alongside its promise of elevated guest experiences.

“Our vision is to develop lifestyle destinations that showcase natural beauty and cultural depth, while empowering local communities through lasting partnerships,” said Patrick C. Gregorio, Head of Landco Lifestyle Ventures. “Through our collaboration with Mountain Man, we preserve and promote Cordilleran traditions while supporting local SMEs and artisans.”

An Authentic Cordillera Experience Every Saturday

At the Garden Wing of John Hay Hotels, every Saturday evening transforms into an immersive open-fire culinary showcase of the Cordilleras. Mountain Man’s signature dining experience offers an intimate, authentic connection to the region’s heritage. Each dish is lovingly prepared using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients from indigenous farmers, foragers, and fishermen.

The curated menu includes:

• Hinanglag – A tender, slow-cooked pork belly dish inspired by Kiangan tradition
• Pinikpikan-style Baguio Chicken Rice – A ceremonial chicken preparation that brings out deep flavor
• Mountain Man Clambake – A fusion of mountain-foraged greens and Pangasinan seafood
• Heirloom rice and native vegetables – Featuring grains from Ifugao and fresh produce from Benguet

This isn’t just a dinner—it’s a cultural journey told through fire, flavor, and tradition.

“Food is a living story,” shares Chavi Romawac, co-founder of Mountain Man with his wife Millie. “Every dish is a bridge between the past and the present—meant to be tasted, shared, and remembered.”

Mountain Man began its journey during the pandemic, traveling across the Cordilleras to document heirloom recipes and cooking methods. Today, their mission continues to evolve as they bring these rich traditions to a broader audience—with John Hay Hotels as their platform.

Sustainable Tourism with Real Impact

This partnership reflects LLV’s broader sustainability vision, integrating local sourcing, heritage preservation, and community empowerment. Guests don’t just enjoy a meal—they contribute to a self-sustaining hospitality ecosystem where local farmers, fishermen, and artisans benefit directly.

John Hay Hotels is also championing active lifestyle tourism. It recently hosted the finish line of the Tour of Luzon, one of the country’s most anticipated cycling events. This initiative further promotes Baguio as a hub for outdoor recreation and eco-tourism.

“We aim to offer a complete Baguio experience—from savoring Cordilleran cuisine to engaging with its stunning natural landscape,” said Gregorio. “It’s all part of building a legacy that blends culture, commerce, and wellness.”

Empowering the People Behind the Experience

True to its values, LLV is also enhancing internal hospitality standards by prioritizing employee welfare. The implementation of a fair service charge system ensures equitable compensation and uplifts the lives of hotel colleagues.

“Our team is our greatest asset,” Gregorio emphasized. “By valuing our people, we create a ripple effect—empowered staff create exceptional guest experiences.”

Be Part of the Story

John Hay Hotels warmly invites locals and tourists to discover the heart of the Cordilleras every Saturday through Mountain Man’s open-fire dinners at The Manor. With every visit, guests support a movement that honors tradition, nurtures community, and celebrates Filipino heritage in the most delicious way possible.

“More than just a meal, we hope guests take home a story, a memory, and a piece of the Cordillera’s soul,” Millie Romawac reflects.

For bookings and inquiries:
📞 (074) 637 4720 / (074) 637 4721 / (+63) 939 986 4120
📧 reservationsatmanor@campjohnhayhotels.com
🌐 www.landcolifestyleventures.com
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