Plantation Bay Resort and Spa in Cebu transformed its Orion Beach into a radiant spectacle for its much-anticipated annual staff Christmas celebration. Held on December 23, 2025, the event, themed "An Oriental Soirée," saw the resort's shimmering waters illuminated by a glow of bright-colored lanterns.
A Night of Cultural Performances and Friendly Competition
The heart of the evening was a series of cultural presentations that turned into a friendly and fun competition. The resort's staff, divided into four teams, each represented a different Asian country: China, Vietnam, Japan, and Thailand. The event underscores the philosophy of President and CEO Manny Gonzalez, who actively encourages employees to develop talents beyond their professional roles.
The program commenced after a delicious dinner buffet, with teams from various departments putting on productions that rivaled professional shows. The grand prize was claimed by Team Thailand, represented by the Kitchen and Spa departments. First place honors went to Team Japan, comprised of staff from the Executive Office, Finance, HRD, and Housekeeping.
Celebrating Teamwork and Talent
Team Vietnam, from the Food & Beverage and Recreation departments, secured second place. Third place was awarded to Team China, which included members from the Front Office, Engineering, and Sales teams. The excitement of the cultural showdown was further amplified by raffle prizes drawn throughout the evening.
The event was also a gathering of key resort figures. Attendees included President/CEO Manny Gonzalez with retired General Manager Efren Belarmino. Also present were the Managing Director of Plantation Prime and former GM Brian Noel, Acting General Manager Colleen Barcelona, and Public Relations Executive Charene Borres.
Redefining Philippine Tourism Through Storytelling
A significant highlight of the soirée was the premiere of "Flavor Me," a cinematic piece produced by Plantation Bay. This visual storytelling initiative aims to showcase the unique character and distinctive experiences offered by the resort.
More broadly, the project seeks to redefine how Philippine tourism is presented globally. It focuses on shifting perceptions, emphasizing the country's diverse appeal, and celebrating its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and world-famous hospitality. The Oriental Soirée, therefore, was not just a Christmas party but a reflection of the resort's commitment to excellence and innovation in hospitality.
