Haunted Hotels in the Philippines
The Philippines, a country rich in history and folklore, is home to numerous tales of the supernatural. Among these are stories of haunted hotels, where guests have reported eerie occurrences and sightings of apparitions. In this article, we delve into the chilling tales of the ten most haunted hotels in the Philippines.
1. Hyatt Terraces Baguio Hotel
Nestled in the cool, misty climes of Baguio, the Hyatt Terraces Baguio Hotel once stood as a jewel of hospitality, born during a time of great ambition in the Philippines’ tourism sector. It grandly opened its doors, coinciding with the prestigious World Bank-International Monetary Fund conference in Manila back in 1976.
A Testament to Design and Elegance
The hotel’s architecture was a marvel, a visual symphony that harmonized with the region’s natural beauty. Inspired by the iconic Banaue Rice Terraces, its stepped silhouette gracefully descended the landscape, offering guests a breathtaking panorama of the mountains and city below. The crowning feature of the Hyatt Terraces was its expansive atrium—a verdant cascade of greenery that brought nature indoors, creating an oasis of calm and luxury.
Heinrich Maulbecker, the visionary behind the Hyatt Bangkok, was brought in to oversee the transformation of this architectural gem into a Hyatt-branded sensation. Under his stewardship, the hotel was reborn as Hyatt Terraces Baguio, a name that promised and delivered unparalleled service until fate intervened in 1990.
Tragedy and Remembrance
The devastating Luzon earthquake of 1990 brought the hotel’s vibrant story to an abrupt and tragic halt. The quake dealt a fatal blow to the structure, causing the terraced front wing to crumble into the lobby, claiming over 50 lives. This catastrophe left a scar in the heart of Baguio—a city that mourns the loss to this day.
Now, where laughter and chatter once filled the air, there lies a silent, empty space. Yet, it is said that the hotel’s spirit lingers; visitors report eerie sightings of apparitions amidst the ruins, souls of the departed seemingly unable to find peace.
Local taxi drivers, as they pass the haunting grounds at night, pay their respects with a tap of the horn, a tradition steeped in remembrance and reverence. It’s whispered that those who neglect this gesture encounter a chilling vision—a spectral figure, a remnant of the disaster, haunting the very road they travel.
The Hyatt Terraces Baguio’s story is one of grandeur and tragedy, its legacy etched into the annals of Philippine history. A visit to the site is a step back in time, an encounter with the past, and a poignant reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful tales have the most sorrowful endings. Truly one of the most haunted hotels in the Philippines.
2. Casa Vallejo
Other haunted hotels in the Philippines? Perched along the bustling Upper Session Road, Casa Vallejo stands as a testament to Baguio’s storied past. Established in 1909, this venerable institution isn’t just the oldest hotel in the city; it’s a living museum, honored by the Baguio Centennial Commission as one of the city’s ten historical pillars.
History
The narrative of Casa Vallejo is as rich and varied as the textures of its original wood and sawali construction. Initially serving as a humble abode for public works employees, the building soon found itself at the crossroads of history, transforming into a detention center for German prisoners during the tumultuous World War I period.
By the 1920s, the echoes of confined soldiers gave way to the bustling sounds of travelers when Dormitory 4 welcomed its first guests as a full-fledged hotel. Casa Vallejo then continued its legacy of sanctuary, providing refuge for British and Indian émigrés as the shadows of World War II loomed over the horizon.
Even as bombs rained from the sky in 1941, the sturdy structure stood its ground, outliving the onslaught that brought many others to their knees. In the decades that followed, the walls of Casa Vallejo would hear the laughter and learning of students before their eventual move, leaving behind memories in the hallowed halls.
The turn of the millennium brought uncertainty when ancestral land claims threatened its very foundation. However, the specter of destruction was held at bay, preserving the hotel for future generations to cherish. This dedication to heritage was cemented when, on a September day in 2019, Casa Vallejo was officially recognized as a historic site by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
Unseen Guests Among Us
But history isn’t the only thing that lingers in the corridors of Casa Vallejo. Whispered accounts and spectral sightings suggest that some guests have extended their stay indefinitely. Staff and visitors alike tell of fleeting shadows and inexplicable sounds—showers running without a soul in sight and the murmur of unseen conversations that hang in the air.
Seasoned ghost hunters and psychics have reportedly made contact with the hotel’s permanent spectral residents: two ethereal ladies and a gentleman from an era long passed, yet unwilling to depart. These stories contribute to the mystique of Casa Vallejo, a place where the past isn’t just remembered—it’s experienced.
Casa Vallejo remains a bucket-list destination for those drawn to the allure of the paranormal, or simply captivated by the charm of a bygone era. So if you find yourself in Baguio, step inside Casa Vallejo. Who knows? You might check out with your own tale of an encounter with the extraordinary.
3. Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel, an icon of luxury perched along the sweeping Manila Bay, has stood the test of time as the oldest premier hotel in the Philippines and one of the most haunted hotels in the Philippines as well. Since its grand opening on July 4, 1912—a date commemorating American Independence—the hotel has been a silent witness to the ebb and flow of the nation’s history.
A Storied Beginning
Constructed on a vast reclaimed expanse at the edge of Rizal Park, the Manila Hotel was envisioned to be a rival in grandeur to Malacañang Palace, the residence of the Philippine President. Its elegant design and prime location made it the accommodation of choice for the most distinguished guests, from General Douglas MacArthur, who lived in its penthouse, to a parade of celebrities, world leaders, and historical figures.
The Heartbeat of History
Through the years, Manila Hotel’s halls have been graced by illustrious names such as Ernest Hemingway, James A. Michener, John Wayne, and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. It has played host to legendary entertainers like Michael Jackson and The Beatles, world dignitaries including Charles, Prince of Wales, and U.S. President Bill Clinton, and was once the Asian headquarters for international news organizations like The New York Times.
A Towering Presence
In the mid-1970s, the hotel expanded upward, adding what would become the tallest hotel tower in the Manila Bay area. This renovation was part of an ongoing commitment to blend the allure of old-world charm with contemporary luxury, a promise it has kept even through a major refurbishment in 2008 leading up to its centennial celebrations in 2012.
Echoes of the Past
Yet, for all its grandeur, the Manila Hotel has not been without its darker tales. The scars of World War II are etched into its walls, with the hotel having been occupied by Japanese forces and later gutted by fire in 1945. Over the decades, stories have emerged of spectral sightings—a woman’s ghost lingering on the 15th floor, or the inexplicable flickering of lights and whir of air conditioners in the stillness of dawn.
The Manila Hotel, now more than a century old, continues to uphold its legacy as a bastion of elegance and history. Its beauty is matched only by the rich tapestry of stories that have unfolded within its walls—a tapestry that continues to grow with each guest that passes through its doors, seeking a piece of Philippine history.
4. University Hotel Diliman
Tucked away in the bustling heart of the University of the Philippines Diliman campus lies the University Hotel Diliman, a place that’s more than just a bed for the night—it’s an integral part of the university’s vibrant education. The hotel not only offers cozy lodgings but also doubles as an experiential learning center for students, as well as a gathering spot for thinkers from around the globe.
A Stay with Intellectual Charm
The University Hotel Diliman is a sanctuary for those who delight in the fusion of ease and academic energy. Here, visitors find themselves steeped in the intellectual spirit that permeates from the nearby halls of learning. Whether you’re in town for a conference, visiting family, or just exploring, the hotel promises a stay that’s as enriching as it is comfortable.
Hauntings
While the University Hotel Diliman may not be as storied in the supernatural as other historic buildings on campus, it holds its own in campus lore and one of the most haunted hotels in the Philippines. The whispers of the unexplained are part of the fabric of the university, and the hotel is no exception. Imagine the shiver down your spine when you hear the sound of water from an empty bathroom, a phantom echo of a guest long gone. These tales add a layer of mystique to an already intriguing establishment.
The University Hotel Diliman is not just accommodations—it’s an experience. A place where you can rest your head while your mind wanders the corridors of knowledge, and if you listen closely, you might just catch the faintest echo of a story yet to be told.
5. UST Hotel 1611
Tucked atop the bustling campus of the University of Santo Tomas, Hotel 1611 isn’t just another place to stay—it’s a slice of modern comfort wrapped in centuries of academic tradition. Perched on the upper floor of the stately Buenaventura G. Paredes O.P. Alumni Center Building, this boutique hotel is a shining example of UST’s dedication to marrying hospitality with innovation.
While Hotel 1611 may not have the age-old tales that echo through the corridors of UST, it brings its own story to life. As a new addition to the university, Hotel 1611 lacks the ghostly lore that clings to the older structures, but it stands ready to welcome those who come seeking both the thrills of a ghost hunt and the comfort of modern lodgings.
The Ghostly Echoes of UST
For those drawn to the supernatural, UST’s long history, stretching back to the Spanish colonial era, provides a rich hunting ground. The campus, once a wartime internment camp, is said to be home to the restless spirits of prisoners who suffered and died within its walls. But it’s not just the echoes of war that haunt the grounds; whispered legends speak of former students who never truly left, their spectral forms glimpsed in the twilight.
At Hotel 1611, guests are invited to indulge in a stay that offers both the pulse of university life and the potential brush with the mysteries of the past. Whether you’re here to explore the shadows of history or simply to enjoy a comfortable retreat amidst the academic buzz, Hotel 1611 stands as a beacon of contemporary hospitality in the heart of one of Manila’s most historic institutions.
For more hauntings at UST, check our video: Ateneo de Manila and UST Haunted Stories – Philippines Haunted Schools Series Part 1
6. Vivere Hotel
Perched in the bustling district of Alabang is the Vivere Hotel, an oasis of luxury that has been pampering guests with its exceptional service and lavish comforts since its doors swung open in 2001. As Alabang’s premier five-star hotel, it’s been setting the standard with its array of beautifully designed rooms, each crafted to provide a unique and memorable stay for travelers and locals alike. Its innovative security features, like the Dial-Lock System, ensure that guests can unwind in peace and privacy.
A Green Sanctuary in the Urban Jungle
Vivere Hotel showcases its green thumb through its eco-friendly practices, ensuring that your stay is not just indulgent but also kind to Mother Earth. Guests can treat themselves to a suite of on-site luxuries including a tranquil spa, bubbling Jacuzzi, steamy sauna, shimmering pool, and a top-notch gym. The business center and free Wi-Fi cater to the needs of traveling professionals, while The Nest, the hotel’s sky-high restaurant, offers a dining view that will take your breath away. Those with access to the Penthouse Club can also enjoy the refined atmosphere of the Executive Lounge.
A Stage for Celebrations and Traditions
This hotel has become the backdrop for countless special moments, from saying ‘I do’ to annual holiday celebrations. Its prime location within Filinvest Corporate City places it at the heart of Alabang’s vibrant scene, making it a sought-after spot for those desiring a city break with a touch of resort relaxation.
Shadows Cast by Tragedy
Despite the glitz and glamour, Vivere Hotel has been touched by somber events. The hotel has been the site of several tragic moments, including the loss of a 59-year-old lady who met her untimely demise in a fall on Christmas Eve. The hotel’s history was further darkened when, in October 2011, Martin Guingona Lamb, a grandson of a former Philippine vice president, ended his life with a fall from the hotel. Another heartbreaking incident occurred the following year when a young pilot’s life ended in a similar manner.
A Hauntingly Beautiful Experience
Amidst the splendor, there are whispers of otherworldly sightings at Vivere Hotel. Some guests claim to have felt the presence of the unseen, with tales of spectral figures wafting through the hotel’s luxurious halls. Yet, these stories haven’t deterred visitors from reveling in the hotel’s many offerings.
Vivere Hotel has managed to maintain its reputation as a top-notch destination despite these chilling anecdotes, with reviews praising its location and amenities. Could the allure of its lavish comforts and the thrill of a ghostly encounter be the perfect mix for a truly unforgettable stay? Only a visit to Vivere Hotel can tell.
7. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
Tucked away in the town of Bagac, Bataan, lies Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar – a destination that transports visitors to a bygone era. Here, the past melds with the present, offering a retreat that’s as much a historical treasure as it is a beachside escape.
Crafting a Sanctuary of Heritage
Jose “Gerry” Acuzar’s dream took shape in 2003 when he began the colossal task of reviving Spanish colonial homes within Bagac. This labor of love saw antique houses carefully deconstructed and reassembled, brick by brick, on his property. By 2010, the gates swung open, welcoming those who wished to wander through a living narrative of the nation’s storied heritage.
The Debate over Heritage Preservation
The project’s approach, uprooting and relocating structures from their original sites, sparked discussions amongst preservationists. Yet, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar stands as a testament to the country’s varied past, showcasing a collection of significant homes, such as the Torogan, a vestige of Maranao royalty from Mindanao.
More than 60 historic residences dot the landscape, with each holding secrets and stories of the past. Through the Walking Heritage Tour, visitors delve into the lives and legacies of about ten of these homes. Complementing the cultural journey, the resort also offers a picturesque beachside, featuring playful aquatic attractions for the young at heart.
Whispers of the Past
As for the whispers of hauntings, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is an anthology of historical narratives rather than confirmed ghost stories. The restored buildings, some of which date back to the 18th century, have seen their share of drama and darkness. For instance, Casa Unisan recounts a tale of theft and survival, Casa Hidalgo has donned many hats, from dormitory to film set, and Casa Lubao still holds echoes of its days as a wartime stronghold.
Encounters with the Eerie – Haunted Hotels in the Philippines
Official records of paranormal happenings may not exist, yet some guests have reported strange occurrences, like unexplained nocturnal noises or lights with a mind of their own. These personal accounts add an element of mystery to the resort, reminiscent of the spine-tingling scenes from a classic ghost story.
8. Diplomat Hotel
High above Baguio City, the Diplomat Hotel stands as a relic of the past on Dominican Hill. Its journey through time is a reflection of Philippine history, marked by its evolution from a place of worship to a sanctuary during conflict, and finally, to an establishment shrouded in ghostly tales.
A Sanctuary’s Beginning
Built originally in 1915, the structure now known as the Diplomat Hotel was first a retreat called Colegio del Santissimo Rosario. It was envisioned as a haven for the Dominican priests, crafted under the guidance of Fr. Roque Ruaño, and completed in 1915. Over time, its walls housed a seminary and provided a quiet retreat for the religious.
Refuge Turned Battleground
As World War II raged, the retreat became a refuge for those escaping the horrors of war. Yet, it wasn’t long before the Japanese forces, including the notorious Kempeitai, seized it as a base, casting a shadow of terror where they executed unspeakable acts.
From Ruins to Respite
The once-sacred site was repurposed in 1973 when Diplomat Hotels, Inc. breathed new life into it as a 33-room hotel, preserving its distinctive architecture. Under the management of Tony Agpaoa, a renowned faith healer, it operated until his passing in 1987. Left to the elements and shaken by an earthquake in 1990, the building fell into disrepair.
Revival and Remembering
Baguio’s city authorities took over the property, transforming it into the Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park. Acknowledged as a historical landmark, it now hosts events and is undergoing restoration as a heritage park, beckoning visitors with its storied past.
One of the Most Haunted Hotels in the Philippines
Famed as one of the most haunted spots in the Philippines, the Diplomat Hotel is a wellspring of spectral stories and otherworldly experiences. Reports abound of unseen children’s cries, screams of distress, and ghostly figures without heads, fueling its enigmatic reputation.
Adventurers have recounted spine-tingling incidents within the hotel’s walls. A band of friends, for instance, experienced chilling sensations and unexplained sadness, while others have spotted mysterious figures and heard phantom voices. Lost items found in odd places and fleeting shadows add to the hotel’s mystique.
Teams of paranormal researchers, armed with specialized equipment, have scoured the hotel for evidence of the supernatural, focusing on the most storied locations in hopes of capturing voices or images from beyond.
Spirits of the Past
The dark chapters of the Diplomat Hotel’s history, particularly during the wartime occupation, have given rise to its haunted fame. After serving as a hotel for some time, the untimely death of its manager left it abandoned to ghostly legends. Among the many spirits said to roam its halls, the most notorious is that of a headless priest, thought to be Father Ruaño, a casualty of war’s cruelty.
The Diplomat Hotel’s intriguing mix of history and hauntings continues to draw the curious, standing as a monument to both its illustrious and ominous past.
9. Manor at Camp John Hay
Tucked in the refreshing environment of Baguio City, Camp John Hay has witnessed a transformative journey since its establishment in the early 1900s. What began as a military base has morphed into an idyllic retreat, offering a blend of history and relaxation.
An Elevated Escape
Sitting 5,000 feet above the sea, The Manor at Camp John Hay is a sanctuary where cool temperatures are the norm. The hotel’s design pays homage to nature, with the grandeur of the neighboring pine trees and the comfort of modern hospitality converging in harmony.
Comfort Among the Pines
With 158 rooms, including 47 suites, The Manor caters to everyone from solo vacationers to families. The accommodations range from cozy Superior rooms to spacious Two-Bedroom Suites, all outfitted with contemporary comforts and offering picturesque views of either the forest or the hotel’s well-kept gardens. The establishment also ensures that guests with disabilities have a barrier-free and enjoyable stay.
Leisure and Indulgence
The Manor invites guests to enjoy its various amenities, from gourmet dining and a handy convenience store to a soothing spa and a fully equipped gym. Those looking for a peaceful spot might find solace in the wellness studio, while the outdoor bonfire area is perfect for intimate gatherings amidst the chilly Baguio night.
Whispers of the Past
The serene setting of Camp John Hay belies its mysterious past, filled with tales that could thrill any ghost hunter. The infamous Murder Woods, where soldiers reportedly met their fateful end, is said to be a hotspot for spectral sightings and eerie encounters.
A Colonial Charm Amidst Ghostly Tales
While The Manor at Camp John Hay may not be as notorious for its supernatural occurrences as some other places in the Philippines, it stands as an elegant choice for those looking to explore Baguio’s ghostly lore. This colonial-style establishment offers a comforting retreat, ensuring a restful night’s sleep even after the most thrilling of ghostly storytelling sessions.
More Haunted Places in Baguio City? Check out our: 10 Most Haunted Places in Baguio City
10. Luneta Hotel, Manila
Historical Significance
The Luneta Hotel in Manila, Philippines, is a historic landmark completed in 1919. Designed by Spanish architect-engineer Salvador Farre, the hotel showcases French Renaissance architecture with Filipino stylized beaux arts, making it a unique example of this architectural style in the Philippines. The hotel’s location across from Luneta (Rizal Park) on Kalaw Avenue in Ermita has made it a significant site for various historical events.
During World War II, the Luneta Hotel served as a brothel for American G.I.s and survived the Liberation of Manila in 1945, a testament to its resilience and historical importance. It was also the lodging of choice for delegates of the 33rd International Eucharistic Congress in 1937 and served as the US military’s non-commissioned officers’ club in 1941. Notably, the hotel was home to Dwight Eisenhower before he became the President of the United States.
Restoration and Reopening
After being abandoned in 1987, the Luneta Hotel remained derelict until it was given a new lease on life with extensive renovations and reopened in 2014. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines installed a historical marker during its relaunch, recognizing its significance. The restoration works were approved by the National Historical Commission, and the hotel now features 60 rooms with modern amenities while retaining its historical charm.
Incidents and Paranormal Activities
The Luneta Hotel has been associated with various incidents and reports of paranormal activities. During the restoration works between 2008 and 2014, a blessing was performed on the hotel due to the presence of ghosts, particularly on its sixth floor. However, not all guests report ghostly encounters, as some have stayed without experiencing any apparitions.
As we conclude our chilling journey through the corridors of the unknown, we’ve unveiled the top 10 most haunted hotels in the Philippines, where history and mystery intertwine. From the ghostly echoes at the Hyatt Terraces Baguio Hotel to the spectral sightings at the Luneta Hotel in Manila, every location has its own stories to tell, each more haunting than the last. These bastions of the supernatural offer more than just a place to rest; they are a gateway to the past and a haunting ground for those who have never left. Whether seeking an eerie adventure or simply curious about the country’s paranormal hotspots, these hotels provide a spine-tingling experience for the brave at heart. So, pack your bags with a dash of courage, and prepare for an unforgettable stay—these haunted hotels are waiting to tell you their secrets if you dare to listen.
