Addressing some 100 key players in the tourism and hospitality industry, local government units (LGUs), and businesses, Secretary Frasco underscored the importance of the accommodation sector in providing not only livelihood opportunities to the Filipino people but also for serving as an added tourist attraction in Cebu.
“Two years ago, when the pandemic met our shores, everything came to a standstill. At the time when the future was uncertain, Cebu had always led the charge not only in the recovery of our economy and the recovery of the tourism industry. Cebu has led the charge to establish to the world that notwithstanding all of the challenges that we have faced from the pandemic to Super Typhoon Odette, none of these calamities have served to dampen the Cebuano spirit. This establishment, the inauguration of the Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, despite all of the difficulties faced in the past five years since it began the construction, perfectly evinces the strength of spirit with which Cebuanos and Filipinos have always faced every challenge”, said Secretary Frasco in her message to the tourism stakeholders present.
Secretary Frasco was joined by Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco, Representative of the 5th District of Cebu; Dottie V. Wurgler-Cronin, General Manager, Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort; Bruce Winton, Multi-Property Vice President – Philippines, Marriott Intl.; Duke Nam, Area VP for Korea and Philippines, Marriott International; Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ahong Chan; Cindy Chan, Representative, Lapu-Lapu City Lone District; Congressman Pablo John Garcia; Mr. Ray G. Manigsaca, President & CEO, AppleOne Properties Inc.; and Venus H. Manigsaca, Treasurer, AppleOne Properties, Inc.
“It is with a grateful and happy heart that I convey my congratulations to you and to the entire Marriott International Group for the inauguration of this hotel that will no doubt enhance the landscape of Cebu in the Philippines as one of the leading leisure destinations in Asia” added the tourism chief.
