Gymboree Opens Branch at Sofitel Philippine Plaza

Gymboree, global leader in early childhood development and number one pre-school in the Philippines, celebrates its tenth year in the country by opening its tenth branch at its very first hotel destination, the Sofitel Philippine Plaza.

Sofitel general manager Goran Aleks, Gymboree Philippines managing director Ann Tan and certified Gymboree mom, Bianca Araneta-Elizalde led the official launch ceremony last January 30.  Aleks says of Sofitel’s partnership with Gymboree, “We are very proud to bring Gymboree to our guests, for it is truly the best in the area of early child care and education. The hotel is known for its security, and Sofitel is indeed a safe haven for our children. What’s more, kids can now enjoy playing in a beautiful natural environment just as they were always meant to, and they can now have Gymboree birthday parties at Sofitel, too.”

“I’m excited to bring this wonderful program to the Sofitel community,” said Tan. “From the moment they walk in, parents can see that we’ve created an environment where kids can feel confident to touch, explore, play and have fun. The play equipment was custom designed for young children and our classes have been developed to provide a range of age-appropriate challenges and skill building exercises, allowing each child to participate and learn at his or her own pace.”

Bianca Araneta-Elizalde enthuses, “I am an advocate of Gymboree’s philosophy of play and parental involvement as integral parts of childhood development. My Isabelli and Alessi are Gymboree kids, and my two-month old little girl is on her way to becoming one as well. What I love most is I can bond with my daughters at Gymboree, and I have seen how much they have truly developed since they started. I look forward to taking them to Gymboree at Sofitel so they can now experience the great outdoors while they play and learn.”

The grand launch was attended by loyal Gymboree students and their parents. It was a fun-filled children’s party set against clear, blue skies, lush greenery and the picturesque Manila Bay.

Gymboree has over 700 branches spread across 36 countries around the world, and is now celebrating its 36th year globally.

Click "View Gallery" to see photos from the event.