Towards the end of each year, the dynamic general managers together with several top-notch executives of the different properties of the Shangri-La Resort and Hotel chain fly to Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa to host one memorable, special evening for the island’s media practitioners.
This year, the invitees were requested to wear something with a touch of green to complement the party theme dubbed “Lunhaw” or eco-green.
Sparkling wines and fruit juices, spirits and sodas endlessly flowed at the spacious foyer of the cocktail reception area and at 7:30 p.m., beneath a canopy of lush, verdant greens, guests were ushered from the spacious foyer to the marquee.
Joachim Schutte, the personable general manager of Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa, welcomed everyone. He was joined by the area and general managers Reto Klauser of Makati; Mark Kirk of Boracay; and Gordon Aeria of Traders Hotel Manila.
The impressive parade of efficient waiters with trays full of gastronomic specialties came on cue. For starters, we had prawns and smoked marlin flakes served with vegetable julienne, red pepper coriander cuoli followed by ravioli filled with water spinach with seared lapu-lapu fillet in herb kalamansi broth. A refreshing soursop sherbet was served before the main dish, which consisted of tenderloin beef with garden herbs and nuts. For dessert, there’s Cebuano mango trilogy of panna cotta with mint, French macaroons and mango sherbet on native chocolate short bread.
The fun-filled festivities were capped by raffle. Prizes were gift certificates for overnight stays, romantic dinners for two at their signature restaurants, and indulgence at the spa and wellness facilities, among others.