CEBU, Philippines - Twenty one years ago, Consul General of Austria Arcadio Alegrado, with the support and commitment of wife Marle and daughters Julie Vergara and June Alegrado, pursued his dream of building a beach resort in Mactan Island which he simply named Maribago Bluewater.
Through the years, the establishment has grown to include the private island getaway of Sumilon, fronting the town of Oslob in southern Cebu. This secluded resort is famous for its moveable white sandbar that shifts location with the seasons.
Recently, another brand was launched in Panglao, Bohol. This 5.5-hectare resort called Bluewater Panglao dips literally into the waters of a travel destination that promises to deliver endless surprises beyond Chocolate Hills, the tarsiers, the Baclayon Museum, exotic flora and fauna, historical landmarks and natural wonders.
Over a hundred guests from Cebu were transported by fastcraft, while invitees from Manila were flown in. Warmly welcoming one and all were the Alegrados, together with their competent and ever-smiling staff who distributed refreshing drinks and cold towels.
We then proceeded to Aplaya restaurant where a sumptuous buffet lunch was served. Invitees feasted on international and authentic local fares that featured exotic flavors made with fresh local produce. We took note of the artistic ceiling which is made from recycled pieces of rattan.
Guest of Honor, the driven Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto, in a brief speech, welcomed the Alegrados and assured them of the island’s support, extending the traditional Boholano hospitality which oftentimes can be overwhelming. But most visitors had a keen desire to return with family, with friends or even on their own.
Bluewater is a masterpiece for the future that creates a luxurious escape that honors Bohol’s natural beauty. The resort’s Filipino architecture and design complement the island’s culture, inherent warm hospitality and eco-focused initiatives.
True to their promise at the start of the development stage, the natural contours of the seafront remain untouched. There is a marine sanctuary just 150 meters from the beach line which is protected by the DENR and the Municipality of Panglao.
“Eighty percent of the wood used are recycled” stated Marty Jastillana, General Manager of the resort. Salvaged from old homes, the recycled wood are transformed into repurposed pieces by designer Benji Reyes who made only minimal manipulation, keeping their raw edge and lending their character to the otherwise freshly-painted patina of a brand new resort. Even the bridge that spans the child-friendly freshwater pool, stretching the entire length of the two-storey rows of deluxe rooms, and the lofts are made of unmanipulated wood.
Unparalleled privacy defines this resort where 50 deluxe rooms, one family villa, four family lofts, and three honeymoon villas are outfitted with modern in-room amenities, including plasma TV, mini bar, IDD and NDD service, while the spacious bathroom features a glass shower stall and bath tub. A private veranda overlooks the two free-form lagoon shaped swimming pools with a waterfall.
Julie Alegrado Vergara, President of Almont Hotels, shared the properties’ vision which is to offer a resort that respects Bohol’s objectives and gives an experience that one expects from a luxurious resort, plus the best in Filipino hospitality with world-class amenities and facilities. She further stated that “It’s all in the details. We have spacious accommodations to handle couples on their honeymoon and families on vacation”.
Famed Filipino artist and designer, Benji Reyes, was challenged to introduce a unique design concept that would match the environment. What he came up with is an organic yet elegant, innovative and functional hideaway. “There is a feel of luxurious sophistication but not stuffy. The atmosphere is kept friendly, comfortable and warm”, he enthused.
Taking center stage are the resort’s villas with high-end amenities and individual infinity dipping pool with a private sundeck. The wooden cantilevered beds are the signature room centerpieces often referred to as “floating beds,” giving a different level of sensation.
Bluewater Panglao is also blessed with an underwater paradise with colorful and fabulously beautiful coral and marine species. It is ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing and windsurfing.
The resort is certainly designed to cover the needs of a perfect vacation. Whether in quiet seclusion, or indulging in fun activities and adventures, or exploring the beauty and serenity of the island, Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort will create a positive and memorable experience for everyone to cherish.
The three properties, now collectively known as the Bluewater Resorts is 100 percent Filipino owned. From corporate offices to service staff, it is the unique spirit that drives the brand forward. The Bluewater name, placed prominently above each of the properties, establishes an identity that advocates a quiet but cultural shift into the new distinctive, proud Filipino. (FREEMAN)