TOUR ALTERNATIVE TASK
BAM 158 – OPERATION MANAGEMENT
Exploring Mandaluyong’s Landmarks and Filipino-Owned Delights
Prepared by:
Esmeña, Aravila
Palad, Marie Rozavhelle
Valencia, Eunice
Villaruel, Annie Rose
I. Introduction
In this research project, we focus on Mandaluyong, a lively city in Metro Manila, to explore its cultural
and economic significance through the examination of a distinguished landmark. We aim to explore one
of its prominent landmarks while highlighting two Filipino restaurants—Gerry’s Grill and Mangan
Restaurant—and a locally owned three-star hotel, Lancaster Hotel and Bermuda Hotel, also under
Filipino ownership. We analyzed the history and significance of these places, including insights into their
founders and the stories behind their creation. Our research involves visiting these locations, conducting
interviews, and reviewing relevant literature to gather a comprehensive understanding of their impact.
By assessing their roles in attracting visitors and promoting economic development, we hope to illuminate
the broader impact of local culture and heritage in Mandaluyong's tourism sector. This study ultimately
aims to demonstrate the significance of preserving local identity while fostering economic growth in
urban settings.
II. Description
Our approach involves a detailed analysis of each establishment specifically, alongside two Filipino-
owned restaurants—Gerry’s Grill and Mangan Restaurant—and a locally owned three-star hotel, the
Lancaster Hotel and Bermuda Hotel in Mandaluyong, Metro Manila.
III. Describe your Landmark, Hotels, and Restaurants.
Lancaster Hotel Located along Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City, Lancaster Hotel is a popular
landmark known for its European-style architecture. The hotel offers elegant accommodations with views
of the bustling city skyline.This is owned by Pacific Concord Properties, Inc., a real estate company with
various developments in the Philippines.It is owned by local Filipino business people.
Bermuda Hotel also in Mandaluyong, Bermuda Hotel is a smaller, budget-friendly hotel option for
travelers. Its accessibility and affordability make it a go-to choice for tourists and business travelers alike.
This is a smaller, budget-friendly hotel. Ownership information is not widely publicized, but being a
locally operated establishment, it is likely owned by Filipino entrepreneurs.
Location and Name of the Owner
Mangan Restaurant, located in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong, is a well-known Filipino dining destination
that specializes in traditional Kapampangan cuisine. It’s famous for its authentic flavors and hearty meals.
Mangan Restaurant is owned by the Cabochan family, a known figure in the Philippine restaurant
industry. It is also owned by the cabalen group, specifically Ms. Maritel Nievera.
Gerry Restaurant is another popular dining spot in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong, Gerry’s Restaurant
(often known as Gerry's Grill) is loved for its Filipino comfort food, especially its grilled dishes like pork
barbecue and seafood. Mr. Gerry Apolinario is the founder and owner of Gerry's Grill, which has grown
into a successful chain of restaurants across the Philippines.
The city of Mandaluyong traces its history back to pre-colonial times. Its name is said to come from the
word "daluyong," meaning waves, as the city is located near the Pasig River. There is no single "creator"
of Mandaluyong, but it became an official city in 1994 through Republic Act No. 7675 signed by then-
President Fidel V. Ramos.
These landmarks showcase the diverse nature of Mandaluyong, from its hospitality offerings to its
thriving restaurant scene.
Research the History of the Landmark, know when it was created
Mandaluyong was once recognized as a barrio of Sta. Ana de Sapa belonged to the District of Paco in the
Province of Tondo. The Spaniards dubbed it San Felipe Neri in honor of Rome's patron saint. In 1841, it
was detached from Sta. Ana De Sapa. When the Americans arrived, San Felipe Neri merged with the
town of San Juan del Monte. For many months in 1904, San Felipe Neri served as Rizal's capital. San
Felipe Neri became an independent municipality after it separated from San Juan del Monte in 1907. It
was later renamed Municipality of Mandaluyong under House Bill No. 3836. It became a city in 1994.
Mandaluyong is now a lively metropolis with thriving economic activities, among other achievements.
What is the meaning of the Landmark, History of the Hotels and the Restaurants, Know how it
started.
Mandaluyong has become a highly urbanized metropolis that is home to the majority of the country's best
businesses and corporations, shopping malls, and hotels.
LANCASTER HOTEL
- Lancaster Hotels, Land, and Properties, Inc. was founded on October 27, 2006, to manage and
operate the parent company Pacific Concord Philippines' condotel projects.Lancaster Hotels,
Land, and Properties, Inc. was founded on October 27, 2006, to manage and operate the parent
company Pacific Concord Philippines' condotel projects. Lancaster Hotels is now managing and
operating PCPi's Lancaster Hotel Cebu in Lapu-Lapu City. Cebu began operations on March 1,
2007, while Lancaster Hotel, located on Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City, began operations
on December 27, 2007. The Lancaster Hotel is a Pacific Concord Properties Inc. condotel project
led by President and CEO Ronald M. Lim. Lancaster Hotels is now managing and operating
PCPi's Lancaster Hotel Cebu in Lapu-Lapu City. Cebu began operations on March 1, 2007, while
Lancaster Hotel, located on Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City, began operations on
December 27, 2007. The Lancaster Hotel is a Pacific Concord Properties Inc. condotel project led
by President and CEO Ronald M. Lim.
BERMUDA HOTEL
- The Bermuda Hotel in Mandaluyong, Philippines, opened its doors in the late 1970s, marking the
beginning of its role as a key player in the local hospitality scene. Designed to cater to business
travelers, the hotel was strategically located near major commercial areas, making it an attractive
option for both local and international guests. Its early years were characterized by a focus on
providing essential amenities and services that met the needs of the growing number of visitors to
the bustling city.
GERRY’S GRILL RESTAURANT
- Gerry's Grill, a popular chain of Filipino restaurants, was founded by Gerry Apolinario in 1997.
The first branch opened on Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City, with a simple goal: to provide
a laid-back dining experience serving grilled Filipino favorites, particularly for after-work
gatherings. The restaurant quickly became known for its grilled specialties such as pork barbecue,
sisig, and seafood dishes, which resonated with Filipino customers. Over time, Gerry's Grill
expanded both domestically and internationally, becoming a household name with numerous
branches in the Philippines, as well as locations in the U.S., Singapore, and the Middle East. The
restaurant's combination of traditional Filipino dishes and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere
contributed to its long-lasting success.
MANGAN RESTAURANT
- Mangan Restaurant, a popular Filipino restaurant, is part of the Cabalen Group, which was
created by Maria Estela "Maritel" Nievera. The restaurant was founded to share the rich flavors of
Kapampangan cuisine with a wider audience, serving authentic, traditional dishes that reflect
Pampanga's culinary heritage. Mangan's menu includes popular Filipino delicacies like sisig,
kare-kare, and numerous grilled specialties, with an emphasis on providing a homestyle dining
experience. Mangan has risen in prominence throughout the years, with sites throughout the
Philippines, including Mandaluyong City. The restaurant's dedication to promote Filipino culture
via food has made it a popular destination for Kapampangan cuisine enthusiasts.
Who is the first owner and what is the current owner?
LANCASTER HOTEL
-Pacific Concord Properties Inc. (PCPI) was the first and is the current owner of the Lancaster
Hotel in Mandaluyong City. It is a Philippines-based real estate development business that
specializes in residential and commercial projects, including Lancaster Hotel. The hotel is one of
their mixed-use development projects, which combines residential, commercial, and hospitality
facilities.
BERMUDA HOTEL
- The Bermuda Hotel in Mandaluyong is owned by the Celdran family, who have been involved in
the hospitality industry for several decades. The family has focused on maintaining the hotel's
reputation for quality service and accommodations in the competitive Mandaluyong market.
GERRY’S GRILL RESTAURANT
- The first and current owners of the Gerry’s Grill Restaurant is Gerry Apolinario and his high
school buddy Jerome Ngo, both then 29-year-old entrepreneurs, opened Gerry’s in 1997.
MANGAN RESTAURANT
- Mangan Restaurant in Mandaluyong City is part of the Cabalen Group, created by Maria Estela
"Maritel" Nievera. She is the current owner and has contributed significantly to the brand's
growth, emphasizing traditional Kapampangan food.
Research How the Landmark helped the businesses and Tourism industry in the Locality.
Mandaluyong has boosted local tourism by attracting many visitors with its wide range of shops,
restaurants, and entertainment options. It creates jobs and supports local businesses, which helps the
economy grow. The mall also hosts events that draw crowds and make the area more appealing to
tourists. Its easy access makes it a popular stop for both locals and travelers, helping to promote
Mandaluyong as a lively destination.
This landmark helped local businesses in Mandaluyong by attracting many visitors who shop and dine in
the area. This increase in foot traffic benefits nearby stores and restaurants. The mall also provides job
opportunities, which supports the local economy. Additionally, local vendors often have chances to
showcase their products in the mall, further boosting business growth. Overall, the mall has created a
lively environment that encourages economic development in the community.
Research how the hotels/ restaurants helped the locality.
RESTAURANTS
Gerry's Grill Restaurant - Gerry's Grill in SM Megamall has helped the locality by providing a popular
dining option that attracts both locals and tourists. This boosts foot traffic in the area, benefiting nearby
shops. The restaurant creates jobs, supporting the local economy. It also promotes Filipino cuisine,
enhancing the area's food culture and making Mandaluyong a more appealing destination for food lovers.
Mangan - Mangan Restaurant in SM Megamall has benefited the locality by offering delicious Filipino
dishes that attract both locals and visitors. This increases foot traffic, which helps nearby businesses. The
restaurant creates jobs and contributes to the local economy. By showcasing traditional cuisine, Mangan
enhances Mandaluyong’s dining scene and promotes local culture.
HOTELS
Bermuda Hotel - Bermuda Hotel in Mandaluyong has helped the locality by providing a place for
travelers to stay, attracting both tourists and business visitors. This brings in more visitors to the area,
benefiting local shops and restaurants. The hotel creates jobs for locals, supporting the economy.
Additionally, it promotes Mandaluyong as a convenient and welcoming destination for guests.
Lancaster Hotel - Lancaster Hotel in Mandaluyong has helped the locality by offering accommodations
for tourists and business travelers, increasing the number of visitors to the area. This boosts local
businesses, such as restaurants and shops. The hotel also creates jobs for residents, supporting the local
economy. By providing a comfortable stay, Lancaster Hotel enhances Mandaluyong’s reputation as a
convenient destination for visitors.
What are their key practices that differentiate form the hotels/ restaurant.
In Mandaluyong, Gerry Grill and Mangan restaurants stand out for their unique approaches to dining.
Gerry Grill offers a vibrant atmosphere where families can enjoy hearty Filipino dishes meant for sharing,
often enhanced by live music that adds to the lively experience. Mangan, on the other hand, emphasizes
fresh, local ingredients and a casual setting, appealing to those looking for authentic flavors with a
modern twist. In contrast, Bermuda Hotel caters primarily to business travelers with its well-equipped
meeting rooms and attentive service, ensuring a comfortable and productive stay. Lancaster Night Hotel
takes a different approach by offering apartment-style accommodations for longer visits, along with
recreational facilities like a gym and pool, making it a great choice for both tourists and extended stays.
Together, these establishments highlight the diverse culinary and hospitality offerings in the area, each
creating a distinct experience for their guests.
What is the most sought after service/food?
Mangan Restaurant is particularly known for its delightful treats like puto bumbong and mais
con yelo. During our visit, we ordered these two items, and they did not disappoint. The puto
bumbong was perfectly cooked, offering a rich, sweet flavor that pairs well with its traditional
toppings. The mais con yelo, a refreshing dessert made with sweet corn and shaved ice, was the
perfect way to cool down. Together, these offerings highlight Mangan's commitment to
delivering authentic Filipino flavors in a casual, welcoming setting.
At Gerry Grill, we enjoyed a delicious meal featuring lumpiang shanghai, which was perfect for
sharing among four people. The crispy spring rolls were a hit, packed with flavorful filling. We
also ordered pancit, which added a savory touch to our feast. To refresh ourselves, we opted for
their vanilla punch and chocolate drinks, both of which complemented the meal nicely. Overall,
the combination of flavorful dishes and drinks made for a delightful dining experience.
For hotels, Bermuda Hotels complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions adds significant
value for tourists, while their personalized concierge services cater to specific guest needs.
Lancaster Night Hotel is known for hosting social events, attracting locals and visitors alike,
which fosters a sense of community.
Both dining and lodging options in Mandaluyong emphasize not just great food and comfortable
stays, but also memorable experiences that keep guests coming back.
Recommendations and Conclusion
I highly recommend visiting both Mangan and Gerry Grill when you're in Mandaluyong. At
Mangan, the puto bumbong and mais con yelo are must-tries; they really showcase the charm of
Filipino desserts. The vibrant flavors and textures make for a delightful experience.
Gerry Grill, on the other hand, offers a great selection for sharing, with their lumpiang shanghai
being a favorite. It’s crispy and flavorful, and the pancit adds a nice touch to the meal. Pairing it
all with their refreshing vanilla punch and chocolate drinks makes for a satisfying feast.
In conclusion, both restaurants not only serve delicious food but also create a welcoming
atmosphere that's perfect for gatherings. Whether you're looking for a cozy meal with family or a
fun night out with friends, Mangan and Gerry Grill deliver genuine Filipino flavors that are sure
to leave you satisfied and wanting to return.
