HSBC honors Cebuano artists at new CBP offices

The Cebu Business Park recently welcomed the Hong Kong Shanghai Banking Corporation as it relocated its branch to its new premises. Guests of honor Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña and his energetic wife Margot, together with Cebu Historical and Cultural Commissioner Amparito Lhuillier and HSBC’s hands-on chief executive officer Warner Manning, formally inaugurated the office by officially launching a unique art exhibit featuring the Luna Art Collective.

"As the world’s local bank, HSBC recognizes the wealth of Cebu talent and is proud to support one of today’s leading Cebuano contemporary art groups. By opening our branch and hosting their exposition, we hope to promote a greater appreciation for their work among our valued customers and the public," said Manning.

The guests witnessed a fireworks display before proceeding to the Cebu Marriott Hotel for cocktails with entertainment.

The island’s very own Verni Varga serenaded guests, while a number of Cebu’s sought-after designers showcased their various creations. US-based Cebuana Monique Lhuillier presented two bridal gowns, along with Jun Escario, Edwin Ao, Oj Hofer, Arcy Gayatin and Philip Rodriguez. Fashion plate Joanna Lhuillier provided the stylish bags and Butch Carungay the unique accessories that completed the collection.

HSBC is the world’s largest banking and financial services group, with over 9,500 offices in 79 countries and territories.

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Let it be known that Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort surely knows how to celebrate. The latest reason was the re-launch of the property’s foremost seafood restaurant Cowrie Cove, plus more. It likewise served as a farewell gathering for general manager Desmond Hatton and to warmly welcome new general manager Timothy Wright, with Cebu’s 400 best coming to join surely one of the most unforgettable affairs the city has experienced in the recent past.

The lavish well-planned, thought-out feast had every imaginable dish from sushi to sashimi, oysters to lobsters, and poultry to meat. Dessert was another indulgence all its own. The finest wine and champagne were also served at the open bars.

Saludos a Neil Rumbaoa, the ingenious communications director who conceptualized the never-before-seen synchronized water dance as Venus, basking in her beauty, rose from a huge clam.

Also complimented for a job well done were resident manager Daniele Vastolo, marketing director Maggie Garcia, communications executive Jaja Chiongbian and executive chef Adam Rozmarienewycz.