A Shift in Local Tourism Trends
DMCI Homes President Alfredo R. Austria displays the scale model of Solmera Beach Park Resort in San Juan, Batangas. This 7.5-hectare beachfront development features condotels, residential accommodations, a convention center, and a 4,000-square-meter pool complex. Targeted to open in February 2027, the resort aims to boost tourism in San Juan and generate opportunities for local suppliers, transport providers, tourism partners, and other businesses serving increased visitor traffic.
Alfredo R. Austria, DMCI Homes president, stated that the development includes a convention center accommodating up to 1,000 people. He noted that the company will soon open the facilities for bookings for next year’s events, in preparation for the opening of the condotels the company will operate. San Juan may be a sleepy town in Batangas, which is a two- to three-hour drive from Metro Manila, but it draws travelers seeking beach experiences close to the capital.
The municipality is gaining traction as a venue for corporate gatherings, conferences, and group events. “There are many nice things in the Philippines. It’s just a matter of developing. There’s a uniqueness in San Juan, which could become the best beach in the Philippines,” Austria said.
The 7.5-hectare beachfront property is envisioned to be a beach resort that caters to both leisure travelers and organized groups. A key component is the events infrastructure, intended to accommodate corporate functions, conferences, training programs, celebrations, and other group activities. The convention center will feature a main function hall measuring approximately 811 square meters, complemented by a 419-square-meter veranda.
Related: Marylebone’s Magnificent Moments: Choosing the Ring of Forever
Additional function spaces will be located across the condotels, which may all open by next year. Landscaped lawns and open-air areas will provide additional venue options for outdoor gatherings. Accommodation options will include studio units, as well as one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites designed for individuals, families, and groups. The pool complex spans more than 4,000 square meters.
Dining options will be located across different areas of the resort. To be operated by DMCI Hospitality and Leisure Inc., the development is expected to generate demand for hospitality services and create opportunities for businesses that support tourism activity, including service-oriented enterprises.
About the authorA journalism graduate and has covered the Philippine business beat for more than a decade.
