In a heartfelt response to recent natural disasters, Savoy Hotel Mactan transformed its sixth anniversary celebration into a meaningful gathering focused on community support and solidarity with typhoon and earthquake victims across Cebu.
Scaling Down for a Greater Cause
Instead of the grand celebration originally planned, Savoy Hotel Mactan opted for a more intimate lunch affair preceded by a Holy Mass at the nearby Mactan Newtown Glass House on November 18, 2025. The scenic venue, perched beautifully on a mound by the sea, provided the perfect backdrop for the hotel's reflective commemoration.
The decision to scale down festivities came directly from management, who recognized the suffering of communities affected by the recent earthquake and typhoon that brought devastation throughout Cebu.
Three Chefs, One Memorable Meal
Dubbed "6 Hands for 6 Years," the culinary experience became the centerpiece of the celebration. Three talented chefs collaborated to create an innovative menu that showcased their unique skills and creativity.
Chef Coke Semblante of Savoy Mactan joined forces with Chef Christian Carpio from Savoy Manila and Chef Vincent Cabahug representing Savoy Boracay. Together, they crafted a delectable feast featuring:
- Three variations of appetizers
- Three chef's special main courses
- Multiple dessert options
- Fresh salads and soups
- A distinctive Sugba Trio
The chefs personally shared details about each meticulously prepared dish, adding a special touch to the dining experience that guests described as exceptionally delicious.
Hotel Leadership Expresses Solidarity
Savoy Mactan GM Josef Chiongbian served as the gracious host of the event, warmly welcoming guests and expressing gratitude to his team for their dedicated service over the past six years. More importantly, he voiced deep concern for the casualties of recent natural disasters and highlighted the hotel's collective efforts to extend assistance to those in need.
The celebration attracted key figures from the Megaworld Hotels and Resorts group, including Marketing Director Cleofe Albiso, who discussed the Savoy brand's commitment to authentic Filipino hospitality; Group General Manager Arturo Boncato Jr., a well-respected tourism industry leader; and Savoy Hotel Manila GM Ferdinand Navarro, who previously served in Cebu.
Also in attendance were Cluster General Manager–Visayas Avinash Menon and Area General Manager of Boracay Newcoast Maia Israel, demonstrating the strong network support behind Savoy's operations.
Wings of Hope Christmas Campaign
Meanwhile, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino launched its Christmas season with a purposeful twist. Departing from traditional fanfare, the hotel's Christmas tree lighting ceremony introduced the "Wings of Hope" theme, dedicated specifically to typhoon victims and severely affected communities.
General Manager Al Banting articulated the campaign's significance, stating: "This year our tree is more than just a magnificent holiday decoration; it is a declaration of solidarity... We stand with everyone, offering not just hope but tangible support as we go through this journey of rebirth."
The hotel's towering Christmas tree, adorned with angels, pristine balls, and glittering accents, now stands as a powerful symbol of community resilience and faith. It serves as a visual reminder that even after destructive storms, there remains something to anticipate and hope for in the future.
The Wings of Hope campaign incorporates a dedicated fundraising initiative that will continue throughout the Christmas season. Donations will be channeled directly to local organizations focused on relief efforts, with a donation box positioned near the Christmas tree to accommodate contributions from generous individuals wanting to share in the spirit of hope and compassion that defines the holiday season.
Both Savoy Hotel Mactan's anniversary reflection and Waterfront Cebu's Wings of Hope campaign demonstrate how Cebu's hospitality industry is responding to recent challenges with compassion, solidarity, and tangible support for communities in need.
