OVER at Shangri-La, John Rice, vice president for operations for the Shangri-La Group in the country, had this to say:

“It’s been a challenging year with natural calamities and the unprecedented conditions brought about by the pandemic. As the year draws to a close, we celebrate the Filipino spirit and honor our frontliners, who have fought hard to keep us all safe.”

Indeed, the resort has chosen to forego the usual lighting of Christmas trees, and lavish festivities, to pay tribute to medical frontliners, and to reach out to local communities.

The resort has partnered with the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) for its “Kaagapay: Protect Our Healthcare Heroes” project. This project was launched by the PDRF in April 2020, to help bring immediate aid to medical professionals and hospital workers, who continue to relentlessly fight against the spread of Covid-19.

Furthermore, there’s no let-up in its usual support to Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort and Spa’s chosen beneficiary, Children’s Haven Orphanage in Mactan, Cebu.

Wishing you all a better year, with moments of peace amid uncertainty, warm connections with family, and the unforgettable times from holidays past!

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One of the more mobile events of the annual “18 Days of Activism” to eliminate violence against women and children, a project of Zonta Clubs worldwide, was adapted by the Zonta Club of Cebu 2 in alliance with the City Government of Mandaue.

The idea was to launch a massive information campaign, especially at the barangay level, to involve them in this relevant issue: “How to stop violence in all its forms?”

How? The dedicated think tanks of the “Abay sa Kahayag” committee, under the Zonta Club of Cebu 2, with chairperson Zontian Dr. Elsa Basubas, immediately printed 50 banners focusing on the above subject. With her efficient committee members, notably, lawyer Zontian Regal Oliva, the banners were disseminated in record time!

Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes proudly commented, “Until the violence stops, we will continue to use all our resources for gender and development programs in Mandaue and push for equality for all.”

With these inspiring words, the Zontians are truly humbled. Let the photos tell the story!

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Happy Covid-free New Year, everyone!