if I recall correctly, the Shangri-La is said to have been built to a better standard of earthquake proofing than the other hotels of similar vintage. That of course is just a rumour that circulates, and I cannot vouch for it. But certainly it is a very nice, comfortable, hotel.
I do like the Manila Hotel, and being in merchant shipping it makes sense for me to stay there, as there are so many relevant businesses in Intramuros, but if you will be mainly shopping and seeing relatives it is a bit out of the way, as indeed is the Philippine Plaza.
Most recently I stayed in the Pan Pacific in Malate and was very pleased with it - well worth consideration - and a good location.
