Now that the dust has settled, it’s time to ask the question: why exactly is the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel—one of the oldest and most iconic hotels in Manila—closing down? On Friday ...

First came the closure of Sofitel Philippine Plaza last July, that beloved bayfront hotel. Then Metronome, Makati’s sleek temple of modern French dining, bid goodbye mere weeks later.

Located on a promontory just off Roxas Boulevard with gorgeous views over Manila Bay, this property leans heavily into Sofitel's French roots. It is common to hear staffers welcome guests with a ...