Ruby is a true-blooded media practitioner and a journalist by profession.
She served her early years as a lifestyle writer for a leading magazine and a couple of corporate engagements to which she learned the ropes of editorial work – and dealing with almost the brightest personalities and celebrities in tinsel town.
She had a very productive stint at the now-defunct AMPR Publicity and Communications, Inc. It was also during this period that she honed her skills in Marketing when she had the opportunity to serve as Committee Member at the prestigious Philippine Marketing Association.
For inquiries, invites, or to send relevant press content, email the author at rubyasoy@yahoo.com.
FB pages: https://www.facebook.com/precious.r.asoyhttps://www.facebook.com/rubyasoyph/
Finestra at Solaire Resort Entertainment City presents an evening filled with the finest French wines from Chapoutier Winery, thoughtfully paired with an exclusive 6-course menu by Finestra’s Executive Chef Andrea Spagoni. Discover a sophisticated culinary experience on April 24 at 6PM and explore the elegance and depth of Rhône Valley wines, known for its distinctive grape varieties, aromas and flavors. Lavish on a selection of rich and delicate dishes, perfectly paired with each wine, and savor a night filled with laughter and great company.
Located in the Rhône Valley of France, Chapoutier Winery dedicates itself to organic and biodynamic farming practices. Each wine was thoughtfully selected by Sommelier and Solaire Resort Entertainment City Director of Beverage Daniel Blais. Connect with other industry professionals and savor canapés like beef tartare with egg yolk, cod flakes with dill salad, and cauliflower croquettes.
Chef Spagoni’s menu is inspired by ingredients found within the Rhône Valley region, making it a perfect pairing to the wines for the night. The course starts with a delicate Lapu-lapu quenelles with roasted onion gelée and sour cream. This is complemented by the Hermitage White ‘Chante Alouette’ 2020, known for its complex but subtle nose of quince, walnut, honey, ginger, acacia, and a hint of linden-tree, making it an elevated introduction to the meal. Savor a hearty chicken leg terrine with rustic flavors, complemented by a grenache reduction and glazed baby carrots, paired with the Saint-Joseph ‘Les Granilites’ 2022. This wine offers a soft and well-balanced profile with dark fruit notes and a hint of spice. Next, enjoy a rich mushroom gratin featuring camembert, morels, and green olives, paired with the Cornas Les Arènes 2021, which delivers flavors of blackberry, spice, and morello cherry.
Lapu-lapu quenelles with roasted onion gelée and sour cream.
The decadent and creamy chestnut risotto with duck liver sauce and cherry jus comes next paired with the Hermitage ‘Monier de la Sizeranne’, 2018, a round and elegant wine with concentrated and gentle tannins. Revel on a classic roasted pork tenderloin with herb mashed potato and white asparagus, complemented by the Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘Barbe Rac’, 2012, a wine that delivers pure fruit, with silky layers of raspberry, boysenberry, and blackberry coulis, bringing out the richness of the pork and complementing the creamy texture of the potatoes.
For dessert, devour the luscious red wine pear with dark chocolate baulois and vanilla ice cream. The Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘La Bernardine’, 2021 and its deep, bold flavors is the perfect pair to the dark chocolate and enhances the taste of the pear. This makes it a sweet and memorable finish to a luxurious meal.
Sun, sea, and powdery white sand may be the first things that grab a traveler’s attention, but Boracay also has the essentials to be the prime location for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in the Philippines.
Hotels in the National Capital Region (NCR) are still the preferred choice for hosting events. However, recent surveys indicate a promising trend for Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR), with their Boracay properties ranking as the third most popular option. Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director for MHR, says, “Our Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay have hosted several MICE groups starting 2023, which is a very encouraging sign for the recovery of the island.”
With the Boracay MICE business landscape gaining momentum, the tourism sector is now beyond the recovery phase and optimistic about continued growth in travel. Meetings such as pharmaceutical conventions, the ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting, and the Prosecutors League of the Philippines Convention have all been recently held in Boracay. “After the pandemic, we are glad the domestic market patronized our island, but we are also hoping that our MICE organizers will consider Boracay as their new option for a MICE destination,” she said.
Boracay Newcoast is a perfect example of why Boracay should be the first choice when planning MICE. Aside from having a beautiful private beach, Megaworld’s integrated tourism destination on the northeast side of the island has the modern Boracay Newcoast Convention Center (BNCC) nestled within it. It has versatile function spaces that can be customized to meet an event’s needs, and with a maximum capacity of 1,000 persons for theater-type seating and 750 persons for banquet set-up, it meets the average seating requirements of medium and large-scale conventions and conferences. Fully air-conditioned, with an all-important 100% backup power supply, BNCC has reliable internet connectivity and state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. Albiso said that in fitting out the convention center, MHR took into consideration the major requirements of events, including social banquets and large weddings— thus, BNCC’s 9-meter-high ceiling allows organizers to have more room to be creative with their designs and layouts.
The convention center is also walkable from Boracay Newcoast’s hotels— Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay. This also means that guests are just steps away from the township’s private white beach. Just imagine, drinks on the beach after the afternoon plenary or perhaps an early morning walk on its fine, white sand before the convention day begins.
Savoy Hotel Boracay Function Room Classroom Set up.
These BNC properties, once its soon-to-launch new hotel officially opens its doors, will collectively have more than 1,500 room keys, an array of dining options to please the palates of local and international guests, and plenty of recreational activities to enjoy with family and friends. “The versatile event spaces – both indoor and outdoor – at Savoy Hotel Boracay, Belmont Hotel Boracay, and BNCC are designed to meet the needs of every occasion,” says Maia Israel, Area General Manager for Boracay Newcoast properties and president for Boracay MICE Alliance.
MHR hotels handle the banquet requirements for BNCC. Their culinary teams are fully equipped to ensure that clients’ dietary requirements, with BNC taking pride in having a Halal-certification, and food preferences are met by delivering tasty meals inspired by a variety of local and international cuisines. Both hotels also excel in creating themed banquet packages fit for any type of event. Aside from the classic Luau and Filipino fiesta, their teams have planned and executed themes that run the gamut from Bohemian to Karaoke, dinners under the stars, and street eats, with package inclusions such as an exhilarating fire dance, soothing acoustic performances, or a live DJ performance.
While Boracay is primarily known for leisure travels, corporate agenda also thrives because when bliss and business come together, only the best MICE events can come from that synergy.
For Meetings, Incentives, Corporate, and Events inquiries at Savoy Hotel Boracay and Belmont Hotel Boracay, interested parties may contact reserve@savoyboracay.com or stay@belmontboracay.com.ph, respectively.
Jessa Zaragoza’s hit song “Bakit Pa?” made her music’s unexpected “Queen of Broken Hearts.” The three-stanza sad song with a simple, memorable melody has indeed struck the right chord among the women of the ‘90s (and even up to this day).
Actress-singer Jessa Zaragoza remains the reigning sentimental song queen of the airwaves. She hit it on her very first album with the song “Bakit Pa?” The song is heard in the metropolis as well as provincial areas up to this day. She is music’s unexpected “Queen of Broken Hearts.”
In her hit song, “Bakit Pa?” a girl is weeping over lost love. Another girl has replaced her in her lover’s arms. But she is not destined to die of a broken heart. I’m sad and confused, she sings, but I will survive (Ito’y aking kakayanin).
Jessa related that when she read the lyrics, they felt so right for her and she deeply felt the heart of the song. “So I recorded the song with my whole heart in it. But I never thought it would be such a big hit,” she said.
“Filipinos are very simple and sentimental,” rationalized “Bakit Pa?” lyricist Vehnee Saturno, who was also surprised at his hit song. As they say: Aside from a new love, music is the best salve for a broken heart. “At first, no one believes that she had promise as a singer because she had a sexy image. But when I heard her voice, I knew that she had what it takes. Mukhang matagal-tagal pa ang pagsikat nya,” said Vehnee.
The three-stanza sad song with a simple, memorable melody has indeed struck the right chord among the women of the ‘90s (and even up to this day). For lyricists, composers and singers this means big revenues and more recording opportunities.
Jessa said that it has always been her dream to be a singer and to wax an album she could call her own. Her very first movie outfit did not fulfill the promise of giving her a debut album but instead built her up as a budding sex siren. “Before, it was just my dream to have an album,” quipped the lady with Bette Davis’s eyes. “Even if it wasn’t a big hit, I would be happy. I just wanted to sing.”
Sentimental Song Queen
Jessa has earned for herself the title, “Sentimental Song Queen,” joining the ranks of former hit singers, the late Claire Dela Fuente, Imelda Papin, Didith Reyes, and Eva Eugenio.
During the ‘80s, the celebrated Jukebox Queen title was a tossup between Claire Dela Fuente, famous for her songs “Sayang,” “Minsa-minsan,” and “Nakaw Na Pag-ibig,” and Imelda Papin (who eventually got the coveted title). Now, it is Jessa’s turn. She has put her embarrassing sexy starlet days behind her.
Jessa was a BS Psychology student in San Juan de Letran when she was lured into the showbiz whirl. If she has been given the chance, she said, she still wants to be a psychiatrist someday. Away from the klieg lights, Jessa is a homebody. The second in a brood of seven, she likes staying with her family at home.
These days, Jessa is blooming. She is happily married to singer Dingdong Avanzado, and a doting mom to her only daughter, Jayda, who is also making a name as a singer.
Featured photo courtesy of OfficialJessaZaragoza FB account
(Based on the published article in the now-defunct Mirror Weekly magazine written by the same author)
When you venture out of town what do you usually look for? What kind of escape do you need? After a few busy months of life in the city, seeking the right amount of serenity and stimulation is almost next to impossible. Where do you go?
The Lio Tourism Estate a 325-hectare eco-tourism development created by the Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts (AHRC) and Ten Knots Development Corporation (TKDC) sits on what is known as one of the “Best Islands in the World” – El Nido, Palawan.
Fly from Manila and land directly at Lio Airport through local flights via AirSWIFT and get to enjoy the beach faster than if you drove out of the city. With El Nido just an hour’s flight away and Lio Beach barely a 5-minute drive from the Lio Airport there’s no better way to spend your long weekends and holidays.
Casa Kalaw – Swimming Pool
Here you can find three boutique hotels to choose from – Hotel Covo, Balai Adlao, and Casa Kalaw; each of these hotels with its own distinct design and culture catering to those traveling with friends, a partner, or family members. You’ll not only be greeted by excellent service and world-class amenities but you’ll get to explore the entire estate through carved pathways and beautiful bridges.
The writer at Hotel Covo
Indulge in a wide range of restaurants and bars, and experience a number of relaxing land and water activities like standup paddleboarding or beach volleyball. With the estate’s newly opened hotels, Casa Kalaw has already been recognized and awarded by the Travel and Hospitality Awards with the Sea View Guest House of the Year 2018 of Mimaropa.
Casa Kalaw – Veranda
AHRC and TKDC continue to work together to create not just resorts and hotels but thriving communities in the Philippines.
(Special thanks to Sir Joey Bernardino, the TKDC team, and the Lio Resort staff for making our stay unforgettable. The writer went on a trip to Lio Beach with the Experience Travel and Living magazine team.)
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) join the nation in commemorating the life and remarkable contributions of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, belovedly known as Nora Aunor, in a necrological service on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila.
Arrival honors will begin at 8:30 AM, followed by a tribute program at 9:00 AM. The state funeral rites will continue at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.
The National Artist, who passed away on April 16, 2025 at 71, was a distinguished film, television, and theater actor, a renowned singer, and a film producer. Her career began in amateur singing competitions, eventually gaining attention when she won the television talent show Tawag ng Tanghalan in 1967. Her successful stint in the popular television show along with her appearance in Darigold Jamboree, led to her phenomenal rise earning the iconic title of the Philippine film industry’s “Superstar.”
Among her acclaimed films are Bona (1980), which was the closing film of Cinemalaya 2024, as well as Himala (1982), Bulaklak sa City Jail (1984), and The Flor Contemplacion Story (1995) – all were featured at the CCP Cine Icons program.
She was conferred the Order of National Artist (Orden ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining) by the Office of the President in 2022. The Order of National Artist is the highest national recognition given to Filipino individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts.
The public is invited to attend the necrological service. Limited seats are available. The registration link will be released on Monday through the official social media pages of the CCP and NCCA.
For those unable to attend in person but who wish to pay their respects, the necrological service will be livestreamed on both the CCP and NCCA Facebook pages.
For inquiries, please call NCCA at 09209480385 or CCP at 09617466602.
In part 2 of the feature, the writer and her family explore the captivating wonders of Switzerland. They journey through enchanting destinations like Lucerne and Zermatt, marvel at the breathtaking Glacier Paradise in the Swiss Alps, discover the vibrant spirit of Zurich, and savor the rich flavors of local cuisine.
Contributed by Dana Angela Belo
Ruby’s Precious Moments 6th Anniversary Special Feature (Part 2)
The first few days in Switzerland ignited a deep sense of adventure, leaving us yearning for more of its breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture. Although we battled lingering feelings of sickness from the chilly, unpredictable weather, we refused to let that dampen our spirits. With determination in our hearts, we enthusiastically set about planning our next day’s journey, eager to explore all that this enchanting country had to offer.
Lost in Luzern
Our next destination was the city of Luzern or Lucerne in French. As usual, we left Zermatt early to maximize time exploring Luzern. Despite this, I was never groggy during our trip. The wind blew colder each day, it would surely wake you up each morning. Despite my enjoying the cold, I am not used to this kind of climate. I got sick and had a hard time recovering as I would at home since the air was dry and freezing. Nevertheless, I chose not to stay at the apartment for fear of missing out.
The train ride was always a time for me to start my day, as my eyes slowly started opening, the sun would slowly peek over the Alps and turn everything a glistening white. As we approach Luzern, things become more urban, there are more buildings, and houses are rarely made of wood now, like they were in Zermatt. But Luzern is not purely urbanized, instead, it offers you the best of both worlds. Just like in Bern, old buildings tower over you as you walk the streets of the beautiful city, and in some areas, you see modern structures like museums and offices.
Upon exiting the station, a beautiful welcome arc will welcome you to the city. To the right of the station, you would see a museum which was unfortunately closed when we visited. You can also ride a ferry to see the rest of the city, although we opted not to since it was hazy during winter.
Like other cities in Switzerland, Luzern is full of churches which are worth visiting. Luzern has a Franciscan church and a Jesuit church, which are just a few minutes from each other. The city is also famous for its Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrüke), which is considered the oldest wooden bridge in Europe, dating back to the 14th century. The bridge is filled with paintings and offers a great view of the River Reuss.
We also visited the famous lion monument, which commemorates the Swiss guardsmen who died in 1792 during the French Revolution. The monument is carved into the living rock of a cliff. Just beside the monument is the Glacier Garden, which you can visit after you take pictures of the lion monument.
Luzern is a pretty walkable city, which you can explore with the guide of a map, you can get to the tourist office at the train station near Migros. This map will help you explore the city more easily as it points out the location of each landmark, making it easier for you to navigate and plan your day accordingly. As pretty as Luzern may be, we had to leave and ride a train back to Zermatt.
Feeling on Top of the World at Zermatt
Our next agenda for this trip was the most awaited trip up to the Alps. We pre-booked our Glacier Paradise tickets online as it was the most in-demand activity in Zermatt. The experience comes with a cable car up the Swiss Alps, offering you a great view of the Matterhorn mountain. This is also a skier’s paradise, and you would most likely ride up the mountains with them. Despite being lightheaded from the sudden increase in altitude, I did not want to miss the spectacular view from the viewing deck, which gives you a glorious view of various mountains and countries like Italy. We were unable to visit the ice sculptures inside. It was too slippery and I was too lightheaded to walk straight. So we decided to go back down and spend the day resting back at the apartment.
Since the Glacier Paradise experience only takes about half the day, we decided to explore Zermatt more after resting a bit in the apartment. We also got to try the famous cheese fondue at the Zermatterstübli, which is a Swiss favorite during wintertime. The cheese fondue itself had a strong flavor and a strong aftertaste of wine, with pieces of bread dipped in the gooey cheese. You can also add some potatoes and even get cheese that has herbs in it for a nice hint of flavor. After a nice dinner, we headed back inside the warm apartment and called it a day.
Exploring Zurich
The last city we went to was the famous city of Zurich, the largest city in the country. The city is set by the lake, which adds to its magical flair. Just like in Luzern, there are tons of churches in Zurich, and its streets are a mix of modern and classic. We spent the day walking its stone streets and window shopping, which left us hungry and craving for rice since the majority of the food we ate on our trip was bread. Luckily, we found a shop near the local police station which served hot and delicious Mediterranean food. Since it was winter, most of the food we ate either turned cold quickly or was served cold, so it was a treat to be eating hot meals, especially those that included rice.
After eating lunch, we set off to find the colorful street of Augustinergasse, which is considered one of the most beautiful historical, narrow streets in the city. We took some pictures and headed for the Lindt museum. However, the Lindt Museum was too far and a lot of people were visiting as well, so we opted to explore more of the city instead. We found ourselves searching for the University of Zurich, which boasts brilliant alumni like Albert Einstein himself.
It was quite difficult to find without a map and every building looked like it could be the university. After quite a long walk around the city and a long walk up what felt like 500 steps of stairs, we finally made it to the University of Zurich. At first glance, the university felt a bit small, only having one large building for everything. But as we walked farther behind the large building, we noticed that the university area extended farther into a large compound. Imagine the University of the Philippines, but freezing cold. After a quick stop to rest at a bus stop, we went back to the train station and headed back to Zermatt.
Leaving Switzerland
Switzerland is too beautiful to miss. Its stunning views of the Swiss Alps, snow-covered streets, and the kindness of its people will surely make you want to stay.
However, all good things must come to an end. As we boarded our final train from Zermatt station, we took in the breathtaking sights of the surrounding mountains, hoping that this wouldn’t be our last glimpse of them.
Solaire Resort Entertainment City offers an adventurous and exciting Easter Sunday celebration for the entire family on April 20. The day starts with a Sunday mass at 10AM in the Grand Ballroom followed by a range of interactive activities with luxurious brunch buffets for everyone to enjoy. With fun-filled events like Easter egg hunts, bunny hopscotch races, face painting, and egg decorating, it promises to be an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.
Earn special discounts and Easter goodie bags when you accomplish all activities with the family. The Grand Ballroom holds easter egg hunting for all ages and bouncy inflatables to enjoy. At the Sky Tower area, kids can pick their own eggs to decorate at Waterside, complete a carrot toss at Oasis, and hop through Easter-patterned squares for a fun hopscotch activity at Fresh. At the Theatre Cafe, kids can enjoy cookies and cupcake decorating, face painting, balloon sculpting, and enhance their creativity through a coloring mural. You might just also catch Easter Bunny hopping around—so, snap a picture with him and your whole family!
Indulge in an exquisite Easter brunch buffet at Finestra, Red Lantern, and Yakumi. Finestra offers casatiello, a ham and cheese savory cake together with herbs risotto, poached salmon, and chocolate eggs. Enjoy unlimited flutes of champagne, a seafood tower served directly at your table, a cold cuts station, a roast beef station by the kitchen counter, and luxurious desserts from a rich mille-feuille, macarons, tartalettes, homemade gelato, and more!
Eat all you can at Red Lantern with a dim sum buffet featuring crystal skin lobster dumplings, crispy deep-fried cheese and prawn spring rolls, baked signature black pepper wagyu beef tart, steamed Teochew dumpling, and more. At Yakumi, prepare for a sumptuous feast with eight live stations to choose from. Seafood lovers can enjoy grilled Boston lobster, scallops, blue marlin, prawns, and mackerel in the teppanyaki live station. You can also choose from a fine selection of meats like Kinross lamb chops, US ribeye steak, and Japanese sausage.
For an Easter-inspired afternoon tea, delight in a wide array of tea sandwiches, delectable pastries and freshly baked scones at Oasis Garden Café. These include a savory chorizo and egg mousse tea sandwich, an orange cinnamon sable, Cheshire Pork Pie with glazed apple, and more. Enjoy it all with a pot of tea, an easter-inspired mocktail or sparkling wine, and freshly brewed coffee.
Complete your Easter celebration by booking a Deluxe Room with a city or garden view for only Php 10,500 nett until April 18. Book now by calling 8888-8888 or email reservations@solaireresort.com for a joyful Easter at Solaire Resort Entertainment City.
Conrad Manila celebrates Easter with an array of culinary delights, enchanting confections, and engaging activities designed to create memorable family moments filled with joy, sophistication, and the spirit of togetherness.
“At Conrad Manila, Easter is a cherished occasion to inspire connections and indulge in meaningful celebrations. Our thoughtfully curated offerings promise vibrant flavors, fun-filled festivities and experiences that our guests will treasure long after the holiday ends,” shares Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila.
Easter at Conrad Manila.
A Lavish Easter Feast at Brasserie on 3
Guests can experience the elegance of Easter at Brasserie on 3, where culinary mastery meets vibrant celebration. Savour exceptional dishes such as lechon, spring lamb, premium carved meats, and a selection of gourmet creations designed for every palate. Families can participate in fun-filled activities such as egg and face painting, balloon sculpting, and the traditional Easter egg hunt.
Easter Extravaganza | 20 April 2025
Lunch Buffet: PHP 3,988 nett per adult | PHP 1,994 nett per child
Additional PHP 1,000 nett per person for Easter activities
Guests who reserve and pay in full from April 1 to 10, 2025, will enjoy a special rate of PHP 3,190 nett per adult.
Enchanting Easter Sweets at Bru Coffee Bar
Conrad Manila’s Bru Coffee Bar is set to delight guests with an indulgent selection of Easter-themed treats crafted to bring joy in every bite. The variety ranges from whimsical Egg-shaped rainbow cakes, red velvet cakes with coconut frosting, to Easter-themed chocolates.
Sweet Easter Delights | 1 to 21 April 2025
Available daily | 8:00am to 7:00pm
Whole Cakes | Start at PHP 1,500 nett
Frosting Candies and Pastries | Start at PHP 200 nett
Easter Hampers l Start at PHP 999 nett
Highlights: Easter pralines, chocolate egg, chocolate bar, macarons, assorted mini chocolate egg, Easter sugar cookies, stuffed toys
For an Easter retreat that blends festive fun and relexation for the whole family, guests are invited to reserve their stay at Conrad Manila. Visit Rooms & Suites | Conrad Manila (hilton.com) for the best available rates and packages. To learn more about our Easter promotions, please contact Conrad Manila at +632 8833 9999 or email conradmanila@conradhotels.com.
At Richmonde Hotel Ortigas (RHO), leaders aren’t just hired—they are cultivated. For 26 years, the hotel has been more than just a workplace for its employees; it has been a training ground for aspiring hoteliers who have grown into leaders through hands-on experience, strong mentorship, and a culture that values potential over tenure. This enduring commitment to nurturing talent has shaped a remarkable legacy—one that continues to thrive through the success stories of individuals who started with humble beginnings and now hold key management positions.
Since opening its doors in 1999, RHO has been a gold mine for diamonds in the rough. Over the years, many have discovered their passion and honed their craft within its walls. Some have moved on to pursue new endeavors, while others have stayed and grown with the brand. As the hotel celebrates its 26th anniversary, it not only reflects on its legacy as a trusted name in Philippine hospitality but also honors its employees whose careers it has shaped.
Cluster General Manager for NCR+ of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Jun Justo.
Today, an impressive 85% of the hotel’s managerial team is made up of homegrown talents—17 out of 20 managers and department heads who have climbed the ranks since working at Richmonde. Jun Justo, current Cluster General Manager for NCR+ of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR) and concurrent General Manager of Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, exemplifies this success story. A former Rooms Division Manager at RHO in 2007, he became Hotel Manager at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel in 2010 but has remained involved with RHO with his appointment as Cluster Director of Operations for Richmonde Hotels in 2015 and now Cluster GM for MHR. “It has always been Richmonde’s culture to nurture talent,” he says. “At the hiring stage, we give more weight to a person’s potential and character than their work experience. Building leaders from within didn’t start as a conscious effort or a formal policy—it happened naturally as needs arose, roles changed, and people stepped up.”
Now under the management of MHR, RHO continues this legacy with renewed purpose. Methodical training programs, mentorship, and on-the-job coaching complement the culture of trust and empowerment that has long been its hallmark. “With the Richmonde brand now under the MHR umbrella, our talents are no longer limited to opportunities within the property,” shares current General Manager Oliver Esguerra. “They now have a bigger stage to grow and take on leadership roles within the expanding MHR portfolio.”
For Annie Dioso, Cluster Director of Communications for the Richmonde Hotels group, who began her journey as Executive Assistant in 2000, the company’s confidence in its people and the team-oriented environment played a crucial role in her development. “The trust and support given by management, coupled with the cooperation and assistance from other managers and associates, make Richmonde a great place for career growth,” she shares. “As the industry evolves, new positions emerge and new skills are needed. When this happens, Richmonde always looks within its pool to fill those gaps, giving all employees equal chances for career development—or at the very least, the chance to hone their talents.”
This culture of support and collaboration is something Myca Bonoan, now Assistant Director of Sales, experienced firsthand. She joined in 2020 as a Sales Executive, just before the pandemic lockdown. “Richmonde is an ideal place for both personal and professional development. The supportive and collaborative team encourages learning, and the company fosters a culture of excellence and professionalism,” she says. “Because of that, I was given opportunities to grow and take on leadership roles even during challenging times.” She also credits her growth to the values she learned at Richmonde: “Commitment to exceptional hospitality and customer service, strong teamwork, and adaptability in a fast-paced industry.” Looking ahead, Myca sees herself giving back to the next wave of hotel professionals. “I hope to mentor and share knowledge with new team members, help them grow, and continue to innovate to improve guest experiences and operational efficiency.”
For Axel Zapanta, now PMD Manager who began as an HR Assistant in 2017, the encouraging environment at Richmonde is what stands out most. “Richmonde Ortigas empowers its employees to strive for excellence,” he says. “It fosters a culture where innovation is not only encouraged but actively executed, making every achievement truly rewarding.”
The team of managers and Department Heads of Richmonde Hotel Ortigas.
As Richmonde Hotel Ortigas commemorates its 26th year, it celebrates not just its success as a business, but its people—the heartbeat and driving force of the hotel. With a strong foundation built on faith, dedication, and teamwork, the hotel remains steadfast in its mission to shape the next generation of hospitality leaders.
In the heart of Clark Freeport Zone, where business meets leisure and history blends seamlessly with modernity, SMX Convention Center Clark continues to shine as one of the country’s premier event venues. The convention center recently earned multiple accolades at the Department of Tourism Region 3’s Tourism Recognition for Enterprises and Stakeholders (TRES) Awards, reaffirming its role in shaping Central Luzon’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) landscape.
Recognized for its premium facilities, exceptional service, and commitment to excellence, SMX Convention Center Clark secured top honors in key categories: Indoor MICE Event Venue (Grand Winner), MICE Exhibition Venue (Grand Winner), and MICE Meeting Room (2nd Runner-Up). These awards not only recognize its commitment to excellence but also reinforce New Clark City’s emergence as a top-tier destination for significant events in the country.
Mr. Eduardo Miguel Morato, Senior Branch Manager of SMX Convention Center Clark, accepted the award on behalf of the entire team.
“As the country’s largest convention center operator, we are honored to receive this recognition, which reflects not just the efforts of SMX Convention Center Clark but also the strong collaboration between all MICE stakeholders in the region. These partnerships are essential in positioning the Philippines as a globally competitive destination for business events and tourism” said Mike Albaña, Vice President – General Manager of SMX Convention Center.
Strategically located just 15 minutes from Clark International Airport, SMX Clark offers unparalleled convenience for both local and international attendees. The venue is directly connected to Park Inn by Radisson Clark, allowing guests seamless access between the hotel and the convention center. Right across the property, SM City Clark provides an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, enhancing the overall event experience.
Designed to accommodate a diverse range of events, SMX Clark features versatile spaces tailored for large-scale exhibitions, corporate conferences, and grand private celebrations. Its strong network of event suppliers ensures smooth execution, making it a trusted venue for major industry gatherings.
Further solidifying its reputation as a leading MICE hub, SMX Clark has hosted MICECON 2024, the country’s flagship conference for MICE industry, as well as the PhilConstruct expo, the Philippines’ largest construction trade show, which has returned to the venue for consecutive years.
Beyond business and trade, SMX Clark is also a stage for cultural and lifestyle events. The venue welcomed the Tactical, Survival, and Arms Expo, a premier showcase for defense, survival, and outdoor gear, as well as the City Clark Sneaker Expo 2, drawing sneaker enthusiasts and collectors from all over the region. Meanwhile, the Wedding Destination Pampanga Year 16 brought together top wedding suppliers in the region.
These milestones highlight SMX Clark’s versatility and growing influence in shaping Central Luzon’s event landscape, cementing its status as the region’s go-to venue for industry-defining gatherings.
