Since opening its doors in 1999, Richmonde Hotel Ortigas (RHO), has been a gold mine for diamonds in the rough.
Over the years, many have discovered their passion and honed their craft within its walls. Some have moved on to pursue new endeavors, while others have stayed and grown with the brand.
As the hotel celebrates its 26th anniversary, it not only reflects on its legacy as a trusted name in Philippine hospitality but also honors its employees whose careers it has shaped.
Today, 85 percent of the hotel’s managerial team is made up of homegrown talents—17 out of 20 managers and department heads have climbed the ranks since working at Richmonde.
Jun Justo, current cluster general manager for NCR+ of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR) and concurrent general manager of Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, exemplifies this success story. “It has always been Richmonde’s culture to nurture talent,” he says.
“At the hiring stage, we give more weight to a person’s potential and character than their work experience. Building leaders from within didn’t start as a conscious effort or a formal policy—it happened naturally as needs arose, roles changed, and people stepped up,” Juso said.
Annie Dioso, cluster director of communications for the Richmonde Hotels group, began her journey as executive assistant in 2000. The company’s confidence in its people and the team-oriented environment played a crucial role in her development.
“As the industry evolves, new positions emerge and new skills are needed. When this happens, Richmonde always looks within its pool to fill those gaps, giving all employees equal chances for career development—or at the very least, the chance to hone their talents,” Dioso said.
This culture of support and collaboration is something that Myca Bonoan, now assistant director of sales, experienced firsthand. She joined the hotel in 2020 as a sales executive, just before the pandemic lockdown.
“Richmonde is an ideal place for both personal and professional development. The supportive and collaborative team encourages learning, and the company fosters a culture of excellence and professionalism,” she said.
Axel Zapanta, now PMD manager began his stint at Richmonde as an HR assistant in 2017.
“Richmonde Ortigas empowers its employees to strive for excellence,” he said.
“It fosters a culture where innovation is not only encouraged but actively executed, making every achievement truly rewarding,” Zapanta added.
As Richmonde Hotel Ortigas marks its 26th year, it celebrates not just its success as a business, but its people — the heartbeat and driving force of the hotel.
