Alegre's Hail and Farewell

CEBU, Philippines - The changing of the guards of Sogod’s AAA gem retreat, Alegre Beach Resort & Spa in Calumboyan, Sogod, had Outgoing General Manager Fredrich “Fritz” Kahler turned over the keys to Incoming General Manager Vinaflor Concepcion “Dottie” Würgler-Cronin one recent balmy night.

For 20 years now, Alegre has been a favorite destination for unruffled holidays. Under Kahler’s watch, the property has bagged numerous awards throughout its operation and had undergone refurbishments and improvements — all these owing to his leadership and expertise in the hospitality industry. Indeed, his entire six-year stint was challenging and rewarding at the same time. Truly, Kahler has etched a mark in the hearts of the Cebuanos especially with his endearing nature.

“A successful hotel isn’t only about hardware, the buildings and equipment but in the long run, it’s the software, the people who look after guests who make the difference between a good hotel and an outstanding one,” said Kahler who is of Austrian decent.

In her acceptance speech, seasoned hotelier Cronin briefly shared how she had become part of Alegre’s beginning. “My being here in Alegre is providential. Who would ever think that after 20 years, I will be back in this resort where I am a part from its beginning? I still recall that sunny day in February 1991 when I made my first trip here as part of the pre-opening team who prepared for Alegre’s transition – during its time of construction and initial development.”

“There were just two cabanas at that time and the rest were still under construction. But the promise of its natural beauty was evident. Even the coining of the name Alegre, I remember quite well, we were at the lobby of Cebu Plaza at that time, throwing around different names that would probably christened this paradise. The term Alegre came up which is a common word used among Cebuanos which means fun, in Spanish it actually means happiness. That is what we want all our guests to feel when they are here in Alegre,” she recalled.

“Indeed it’s an honor and privilege to be given this opportunity to be part of Alegre’s growth and development as we move forward to greater heights. With the great support of our owners, business partners, our local government officials and the tourism  agencies, together with my colleagues and Alegre Team, I assure you that we will maximize the potential of being a AAA resort and as a company, we remain committed to our social responsibilities and activities that will preserve and sustain our environment and natural resources,” she concluded.  (FREEMAN)