MANILA, Philippines - Besting 13 other finalists under the Front of the House Category of what is considered to be the “Oscars” of the Philippine hotel and restaurant industry, Ryan Alvarado Publico was the only nominee from a restaurant group. He won not only for his outstanding guest service, but also for his tireless passion, dedication and ambition to become successful in his career while pursuing a selfless advocacy for the environment.
Publico received his award at the awarding ceremony along with the winners of the other categories. The Cravings family, led by Cravings Group founder Annie Pascual-Guerrero, a 2006 Mabuhay Gold Awardee, and Cravings Group CEO Badjie Guerrero-Trinidad, attended the affair.
The judges included Merril F. Yu, CEO, Y&S 1847 and managing director, GHM Hotels Philippines; Miguela Mena, PhD, dean and associate professor, UP Asian Institute of Tourism; and Milagros S. Javellana, president, Philippine Society for Training and Development (PSTD), facility director, Philippines-Australia Human Resource and Organizational Development Facility (PAHRODF).
The decision to award Ryan the citation was a unanimous choice among the judges. According to judge Merril Yu: “Ryan impressed us with a performance limited not only to an eight-hour shift per day with all the opportunities granted one in a 24-hour day. He captured the gamut of experience ranging from guest service, product development, social/ vocational/ environmental outreach, marketing, leadership by example, and family devotion. We were inspired that he matured over time without losing his passion. That, coupled with a breadth and depth of excellence in all endeavors, rang true with all of us about Ryan. He is a blessing in all his interactions, bringing meaning to often — aspired — to levels of excellence.”
“I found Ryan endearing because of his passion for excellence and enjoyment in what he does. His loyalty to the company is very much evident,” added Milagros Javella.
“We are so proud of Ryan. He should be emulated by all not only because of his dedication to his work but also for his passion for the environment,” quipped Annie P. Guerrero.