Cebu bids farewell, welcomes Mactan Shangri-La execs

The well-liked and everybody’s friend Neil Rumbaoa spent five wonderful years in Cebu as the communications director of Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort, Cebu’s ultimate holiday venue for hosting fabulous celebrations.

During his stint with the hotel, Neil constantly introduced innovative ideas and created not-soon-to-be-forgotten affairs for the property’s too-many-to-mention events.

He also developed excellent, beyond-compare professional relations with the business sector and the travel industry, and in the process, formed heartwarming friendships with everyone he met.

So, it was no surprise at all then that the recent despedida party for Neil hosted by general manager Tim Wright at the newest addition of the property, the Ocean Pavilion, was well-attended.

At this a-bit-sad-occasion, his successor Sharon Samarista was also introduced to the Cebuano community.

We gathered from the well-mannered communications executive Jaja Chiongbian that Sharon has been in the hotel business for almost a decade, heading marketing communications and public relations departments. Her last post was at the Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila where she was part of the pre-opening team.

Before joining the hotel industry, she was editing a women’s publication and for four years worked at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Present to bid farewell to a truly fine gentleman who will surely be missed were Cebu First Lady Margot Osmeña, fun-loving couple Michel and Amparito Lhuillier, Spanish honorary consul Jaime Picornell, SM’s top lady Marissa Fernan, event planner Teresin Mendezona, art enthusiasts Elvira Luym and Joy Onglatco, travel specialist Jenny Franco, and enterprising young lady Mary Anne Arculli.

The media, which through the years had many occasions to work with Neil, were in attendance, too. They included The Freeman’s general manager Melandro Mendoza, community editor Divine Ngujo, and marketing manager Tina Poblador. From the Sun Star Daily came Jo Magsaysay with daughter Myra Sun, editor Pura Kintanar, and Mila Espina.

To Neil Rumbaoa, our sincerest good wishes for a fruitful and enjoyable assignment at the Edsa Shangri-La, and to Sharon Samarista, our warmest welcome to Cebu. Mabuhay!