Organizing M.I.C.E. in Cebu

When I was still a Public Relations Manager at the 5-star Cebu Plaza Hotel, I became conscious of the importance of the preparedness of Cebu for big events that may take place here. We started our own little way of enticing the incentive market as early as then (1989- 1990) by pioneering fun-filled theme parties, at the click of a finger. We could transform the ballroom into an Arabian palace, a Hawaiian beach luau complete with white sands and corals, barrio fiesta with buntings and a “pabitin,” among other more specific themes that the client may demand we do. We had a dynamic team so that we worked wonders to make the corporate clientele come back for more.

Now, the DOT and the hospitality sector are capturing the M.I.C.E. (meetings, incentives, conferences & exhibitions) portion of the tourism pie. I have not gotten myself into the situation, as I have not been in the industry for some time. However, circumstances forced me to get myself in the midst of preparations for two big events – the TABOAN 2010: Philippine International Writers’ Festival at Casino Español on February 10 – 12, as Festival Director, and as local coordinator of the Bisaya Medical & Surgical Mission by U.S.-based Filipino doctors and allied professionals who annually serve the poorest of the poor among us. The Mission will be on February 7 – 13. 

Hosting a festival with an expected participation of about 50 – 60 delegates from all over, plus about the same number of local (creative writers) participants, posed an initial challenge, as funding is as usual stringent. We have to consider the time and motion angle of busing the visitors to & from the venue, as well as the airport transfers. (Going to the pier is not a hassle, so we never put this into the equation.)

Finding lodging for the delegates was not as problematic as I expected. We found a value-for-money deal at Alpha Suites, at the juncture of Cebu City (Mabolo) and Mandaue City (Panagdait), right before the gate of San Vicente Village, along Hernan Cortes St., Mandaue City.  Room rate is with breakfast and their rooms are spacious, clean and new. I saw them when they launched. I also find their food delicious.

Casino Español de Cebu is ideal for our needs as it can host simultaneous workshops at 5 of its function rooms, plus a secretariate room for the use of the working committee. We will have the Main Salon as the Plenary Session hall, as well as the venue for our opening and closing dinners. Well known among Cebuanos in the course of its historic existence (turning 90 this year), Casino Español always lives up to its reputation as an exclusive membership club where good food and excellent service can be found.

For my U.S.-based Filipino missioners, I was able to block the air-conditioned rooms of the YMCA of Cebu, where I sit as the only woman corporate board member (serving as corporate secretary) for almost three decades. We are proud of our YMCA. Its unrelenting service to out-of-school youth, as well as to those in the public schools, inspire us in the board to continue our commitment to this established youth-oriented institution. Thus, on February 7 until they leave on the 13th, the members of the Medical/Surgical Mission will stay at the Cebu Y. Rooms are twin sharing, although dormitory style are available for budget travelers. Hearty buffet breakfast is included in the package. Clean, new amenities are available. There are blind masseurs in the premises for those who may want a professionally done massage in the privacy of their rooms. The blind masseurs are there as a tie-up with the DSWD.

At this time, my two projects are on track and I have come to realize the viability of Cebu as one of the attractive M.I.C.E. destinations in the ASEAN Region.

Cheers to us, Cebuanos!