Our GM on 2 wheels

Look who's taking his job coolly, making sound decisions on two wheels. Plantation Bay's approachable General Manager, not to mention humble and kind-hearted, is a born leader with a proven impressive record in hotel management. In his exciting job, Efren Belarmino faces all the challenges one pedal push at a time.

Here comes the low-key boss, a slender man on his bike.

General Manager - yeah, it's easy to spell out, easier to get an excellent remark for enunciation. But, it's one serious position that requires snap decisions and a strong sense of determination.

Beginnings? This executive was once an Airport Representative of Enrico Hotel. He also worked in Century Park Sheraton, handling reservations at the Front office. Two years later, he was promoted to Assistant Manager. He was also with Manila Hotel International, Co. Ltd., a hotel management group.

Then, he left for Xiamen, China, opening the Palace Hotel in Beijing. After his China stint, he returned to Century Park Sheraton. In 1997, he accepted the job, as GM of Cebu's only "inato" tourist destination: Plantation Bay Resort and Spa.

Mr. Belarmino casually shared his diverse hotel experience, and how it helped him to reach the position he is in right now. True enough, as General Manager, Efren is supervising, managing, and overseeing the many departments of the expansive resort and spa. You see, he has gained solid experience working in those other hotels in the past.

Plantation Bay's excellent service is definitely something to be proud of. Accepting tips is discouraged among their good-looking employees, reflecting the beach resorts equally warm treatment to all its guests for them to savor a truly hospitable accommodation.

There is also Plantation Bay's impressive spa - Mogambo Spring, a healthy refuge that offers very relaxing pools - be it hot, salty or freshwater. Four food and beverage outlets within the resort will certainly satisfy one's palate: Kilimanjaro Cafe (International Cuisine), Fiji Restaurant (Asian Pacific Rim Cuisine), Savanna Grill (Fast Food), and Palermo (Italian Fine Dining).

Moreover, Efren's travel experience helped him in understanding first-hand the importance of guest needs, of service excellence and professionalism at all levels. He recently visited Japan and participated in JATA (Japan Association of Travel Agents) where he gained a better understanding about the market trends in that area. He also tucked a certificate from Cornell University on a Professional Development Program in Ithaca, New York.

"Cebu's strategic location is our best bet. We are just 4 hours away from other countries," Mr. Belarmino pointed out, foreseeing a bright future for the Queen City of the South in the field of tourism.