One Central Hotel sets its sights on reviving downtown Cebu
Weeks ago, black and white photographs of the Spanish-built Manila-Dagupan Railway surfaced online, causing netizens to discuss how the country’s capital lost an efficient mode of public transportation. Little did they know that the same kind of extensive rail network once existed in Cebu. Before WWII, people could easily travel from Danao up north to Argao down south by train.
And while there are no railroads that prove the existence of this transportation network today, there are parties that wish to revive its memory by developing Cebu’s downtown area, which is where the railway’s Central Station stood during the American Period.

Most proactive of these parties is the newest luxury hotel in Cebu, One Central Hotel. Named after the station that once served hundreds of passengers daily, this structure, which intermarries the nature of a hotel and resort, seeks to be more than just an accommodation option.
“We want to make this a premiere destination that would sprout future developments in the area,” stresses One Central Hotel chairman and CEO, Steven A. Yu. “We want this to shine in the global community.”
Guided by ‘Amuma’
Set on highlighting Cebu’s colorful past and its rightful place in the global hospitality market, Yu reached out to the Bluewater Hospitality to manage One Central Hotel. And much like their resort hotels in the Visayas and Mindanao, this new hotel operates with much “amuma” or the uniquely Cebuano approach to hospitality.
And the results of this partnership is just outstanding! Despite being in its infancy, the hotel is meeting all the demands of its various guests: comfortable sleeping quarters; Wi-Fi whose fast speed isn’t affected by the number of connected devices; a great view of the city from its rooftop complemented by the smell of sea breeze; a swimming pool and gym for those with an active lifestyle; meeting rooms and a grand ballroom; and a restaurant – Café Tartanilla, whose buffet spread offers delicious local and international dishes.

“What we offer here is a unique experience. It’s luxury, but the affordable kind,” expresses Yu. “We want this to be a real tourist destination, so we don’t just rely on OFW remittances and BPOs. [I believe that the] tourism [industry] could really  ontribute to nation building.”
One Central Hotel is at the of Corner Leon Kilat and Sanciangko Sts., Cebu City. Visit www.onecentralhotel.com for more information