It was business as usual for former US ambassador to the Philippines and US-Philippines Society chairman John Negroponte as he recently visited the country. The hardworking John had his hands full for the whole trip as he participated in a series of meetings with US-Philippines Society board members, a call and dialogue with President Aquino, presentations of the secretaries of Foreign Affairs, Finance, Defense and Trade, a policy forum and business dialogue with the Makati Business Club and a tour of Clark, Pampanga. Showcasing Filipino hospitality, ambassador and McLarty Associates Board of Counsellors member Roberto Romulo hosted several events for John that included a joint lunch meeting of the Carlos P. Romulo Foundation, American, European Chambers of Commerce, and Asia Society at the Tower Club as well as dinner at the Mandarin Oriental. The lunch and dinner gatherings were well-attended by foreign and local business leaders, former and current Philippine government officials and foreign dignitaries. Here’s to more successful business ventures John!

A bountiful year ahead for Marco Polo Plaza Cebu

Chinese New Year celebrations here in the country have become one of the most anticipated events of the year. During the lunar calendar week, including Chinese New Year, it can be noted that hotel businesses showed a marked increase of guests who take advantage of the different hotel promos. Marco Polo Plaza Cebu (MPPC), the only 5-star hotel in the Queen City of the South, held a lavish celebration to usher in the Year of the Water Snake. The visionary Hans Hauri, MPPC’s general manager along with Chinese consul general Zhang Weiguo and other VIPs from the province, media and Filipino-Chinese community, took part in the annual Yee Sang Tossing Ceremony. An eye dotting ceremony, led by Food and Beverage director Stephan Wieprich, was also held followed by a lion and dragon dance. The festivities commenced with the traditional tossing of coins and a firecracker display to ward off evil spirits. Bravo to Hans and the hardworking Marco Polo team for another successful fete!

Source: The Philippine Star; Business; 11 March 2013