Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Recognized as Asia’s Best Historic Hotel
By Tricia Quintero
December 03, 2021
A beach resort, hotel, and heritage destination in one, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar was awarded as Asia Pacific’s Best Historic Hotel by the Historic Hotels Worldwide last November 11 at the The American Club Resort Hotel in Wisconsin.
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, home to Jose Acuzar’s collection of 63 heritage houses from the 18th Century Spanish era that have been salvaged and rehabilitated to its glory, is one great example of rehabilitation and preservation of historical sites. It also boasts of 34 historical structures, topnotch amenities and attractions, and the trademark Filipino hospitality.
The now 400-hectare site first opened in 2010 started with Acuzar’s passion for collecting houses as well as his advocacy to conserve and protect the legacy of Philippine historical structures. Through the principle of dismantle, relocate, and rebuild, Acuzar worked with artisans, craftsmen, builders, and researches and restored the ancestral houses that were on the brink of neglect and decay.
“We are delighted that the efforts of our artisans, carpenters and the people who supported us are now recognized, especially their skills. None of our accomplishments are possible without the exceptional team behind Las Casas Filipinas and New San Jose Builders Inc., who built my vision of collecting and restoring these ancestral homes that were in a state of neglect and decay,” said Acuzar.
Historic Hotels Worldwide recognizes authentic cultural treasures that demonstrate exemplary historic preservation and their inspired architecture, cultural traditions, and authentic cuisine. This includes many former castles, chateaus, palaces, haciendas, and other historic lodging spanning centuries.
Among the notable hotels that Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar bested were Deogarh Mahal in India, Raffles Singapore, NUO Hotel Beijing, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, Raffles Grand Hotel D'Angkor in Cambodia, and The Murray Hong Kong.
"It’s incredibly humbling to stand before such an esteemed audience, and receive this prestigious award. From the bottom of my heart, I thank everyone from the Historic Hotels Awards of Excellence Nominations Committee, for recognizing our efforts at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. 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," said Las Casas Filipinas founder and owner Jose Acuzar through a video message as he accepted the award.
