MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has earned its first-ever Two Michelin Key hotel distinctions, with nine properties recognized in the 2026 Michelin Guide hotel selection. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island in Palawan and Raffles Makati received Two Michelin Keys, marking them as the first Philippine properties to reach the distinction, which the Michelin Guide describes as an “exceptional stay.” Raffles Makati was promoted from One Key, while El Nido Resorts Lagen Island entered the selection with Two Keys. The recognition brings the country's total to nine Michelin Key hotels for 2026, up from five properties in the previous selection. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island was recognized for its location within a forested cove surrounded by limestone cliffs, as well as its use of Filipino materials and craftsmanship, and its environmental practices. Raffles Makati was cited for its all-suite accommodations, private butler service and intimate residential atmosphere. Four properties also received their first One Michelin Key: Nustar Hotel Cebu in Cebu City, El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island in Palawan, Hotel Okura Manila at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City, and Manami Resort in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental. Three hotels retained their One Michelin Key distinctions from the previous selection: Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao, Fairmont Makati, and Amanpulo in Palawan. Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay welcomed the recognition in a statement saying, “This recognition reflects the continued growth of Philippine hospitality and the dedication of our tourism stakeholders in creating exceptional experiences for travelers from around the world.” She also said the recognition could help strengthen the country's positioning as a destination offering different types of high-end accommodations, from island resorts to hotels in urban centers. “Beyond the recognition itself, we see this as an opportunity to further position the Philippines as a destination where travelers can find exceptional stays, from our island resorts to our urban hotels, all anchored on the warmth of Filipino hospitality,” she added. The Michelin Key is the hotel counterpart of the Michelin Star for restaurants. Hotels are assessed by Michelin Guide inspectors using five criteria: architecture and interior design; quality and consistency of service; overall personality and character; value for the price; and the property's contribution to its neighborhood or setting. A One Michelin Key represents a “very special stay,” while Two Michelin Keys indicate an “exceptional stay.” Three Michelin Keys, the highest distinction, represent an “extraordinary stay.” The 2026 global selection includes 2,832 Michelin Key hotels across 79 countries, with 657 receiving Two Keys and 2,020 receiving One Key. For the Philippines, Angara-Mathay said the growing number of recognized properties also contributes to strengthening the country's tourism brand. “Every recognition earned by our tourism stakeholders contributes to a stronger Philippine tourism brand. As we continue to welcome more travelers, we will likewise continue working with our partners in the industry to further elevate the quality of Philippine hospitality,” the Tourism chief added.