A Tribute to a Real Gentleman

CEBU, Philippines - Anyone who has credentials as impressive as Marco Protacio would most likely flaunt it every chance he gets, but not Marco.

It took a lot of research to learn that he acquired his Hotel Management degree from Les Roches, Valais, Switzerland. He then proceeded to Cornell University in Ithaca, New York for a three-month Professional Development Program.

Prior to coming  back to the Philippines, Marco had some hotel stints in Hong Kong and Bangkok.  In September 1997, he finally came home  and worked in two of Manila’s  top five –star hotels.

In 2002, he accepted the challenge to head the Food and Beverage management of the newly opened Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. It was there that I first met Marco.   Little did I know that our acquaintance would  have such an impact on myself and even Cebu.

I have been priviledged to know  Marco  as  a genuine friend whose sense of caring and concern is beyond the ordinary. He is a man of his word, polished and polite

As you continue to read,  a few friends and associates share their thoughts and experiences with Marco.  Several adjectives unfold that  best describe this  gentleman who has made Cebu his home for the past ten years.

Joseph “JT” Gonzales lawyer

“Hotelier” isn’t the only label that should be stuck to Marco: there are many hats he wears.  Try “fashion guru,” “spiritual adviser,” “life coach,” “eventologist” or “clothes horse.”  They all fit.  Despite the stress associated with running not just one, but five hotels, Marco’s able to turn his attention to life outside the hotel, attend to various city committees, functions and celebrations, and establish lasting bonds with a wide spectrum of people.

But perhaps what defines Marco the most is his compassion. He has a knack of peering into a person and immediately getting what makes that person tick.   He can give the most varied of advice, from relationships to feng shui.  That’s probably what made our friendship possible.  While we share many interests,  certain core values of ours diverge.  But he gets me, and that’s probably all I can ask for from a friend.

Sylvia “Bunny” Ludo-Alcordo   restaurateur

When news started to go around that Marco was leaving Cebu, a lot of people felt a real sense of loss.  Understandably so, since he has wondrously added sparkle to Cebu and all the lives he has touched.  I speak from experience, having been close friends with him for the better part of the 10 years he has been in Cebu. I know my life would have been different had we not met.  Everyone sees the style, glamour and fun that he has brought into our lives, but there is so much more to him than that. He has inspired me with his graciousness, generosity, creativity, and lightning wit. He has shown  that laughter can brighten up even the darkest of hour, and that life should be full of it.  He has always been there to make special moments in my life magical, dull moments interesting, and sad times bearable.  Thank you, Marco.  You have, been  and will always be my dearest friend.

Margot Osmeña Cebu City Councilor

I once told Marco that he was an incandescent presence in a particular affair. I stand corrected, in ALL affairs. I also know that he will not stay away from Cebu for very long as he is too much a part of us. 

Rev. Fr. Ernesto Javier, S.J. spiritual mentor

Marco is a thoughtful and generous friend who brought much laughter, joy and a touch of class to our lives. We will surely miss him.

Bobby Joseph Honorary Consul of Latvia

Marco Protacio  is an artistic and creative professional in the hospitality industry. Although aloof in the beginning, he is all heart and passion,  once you get to know him better.

Marco has earned the respect of the tourism industry. He “walks the talk” and more. Marco has turned the Waterfront Hotel into a lifestyle hotel. He brought class and elegance to  the events that he created. Thank you, Marco, for your all out support to  the 888 News Forum and other projects we have worked together.

Hans Hauri hotelier

Marco’s departure from Cebu and the hospitality industry is a real loss. His high standards of professionalism  has inspired others in many aspects of their lives. His leadership has built a monumental legacy not just at the Waterfront Hotel but across the industry through his multi-term  presidency in the HRRAC. His generosity and total dedication toward embracing the community molded HRRAC into a recognized and respected association.

Marlinda Angbetic Tan – The FREEMAN Lifestyle Executive Editor

Marco’s positive energy envelops you like a pashmina on a cold night. Refinement and elegance personified, my dear friend nonetheless has his feet firmly rooted to the ground.  No airs, no waft of “hoity-toity” around him. He is quick to give sincere compliments, ready to lend a helping hand, anytime and at whatever cost on him; always full of resourceful ideas and always exuding sparkling goodwill.

Cebu society will lose a bright star, and I will be missing a genuine invaluable friend.

Rosebud Sala  - socialite

Thoughtfulness would be the best adjective to describe Marco. He always remembers birthdays, Christmas and invites almost everyone to the activities of the hotel. He will surely be missed by all.

Marco, it has been 10 wonderful years of knowing you. Surely time will not diminish the special bond we share. (FREEMAN)