“PANLANTAW: Seamlessly Weaving Then and Now” was Seda Hotel's tagline for its first anniversary celebration held at the hotel's newly renovated Sampaguita ballroom. From the foyer to the ballroom, the decor featured native touches like capiz shells, raffia and bamboo, underscoring the Modern Filipiniana theme.
Seda Ayala Center Cebu is the first Seda property in our Queen City. "Taking its name from the word silk, Seda strategically weaves world class amenities and modern conveniences drawing from genuine Filipino hospitality to create meaningful memories and seamless experiences."
On the frontline were president/chief executive officer of Ayalaland Hotels & Resorts Corp. Michael Alexis Legaspi and Seda Ayala Center Cebu general manager Gwen de la Cruz. Very much around giving full support were Seda Hotels’ senior group general manager Andrea Mastellone and engineer Efren Rodrigo, group director of engineering of Ayalaland.
Highlight of the evening was the fashion show of top Cebu designer Philip Rodriguez, who came up with a Modern Filipiniana collection inspired by the legendary "manton de Manila." His take on the modern terno was innovative and eyecatching. Yes, Philip did not disappoint!
Also on centerstage were the acclaimed UC Dance Troupe, Sinulog Idol 2012 first grand winner Jacky Chang as well as Cebuano music advocates, Wonggoys.
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Exotic and colorful, the Arabian Nights party of Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel marked "38 Magical Years" in the hospitality industry. Yes, it has been all of 38 years since the late couple Luis and Merceditas Alvarez established Costabella along the Buyong shores in Mactan. It is now run by their children with Luis Martin Alvarez as its president, Marita Alvarez Arambulo as general manager and Marisse Alvarez Sy as secretary.
Costabella started off as a simple weekend beach haven for families and small groups but had in time developed and expanded to become a favorite tourist destination for visitors from distant shores. Included in its bragging rights are the "Loved By Guests" award from Expedia for three consecutive years and the Certificate of Excellence from Tripadvisor.
True to the party’s theme, food and entertainment were Arabian-inspired. The Sandiego Dance Troupe came up with exciting dance numbers while the hotel chefs prepared yummies with middle Eastern flavors.
Guests included the top producers of the hotel who were given recognition onstage, regular clients, media and industry friends, suppliers, and more.