Rotary Tourism Personality awardees

MANILA, Philippines - A mayor whose town has become a favorite destination of local and foreign birdwatchers, a tourism entrepreneur whose resort is offering a different lifestyle, a travel columnist, an airline executive and two expats managing world-class hotels are among the notable awardees of the Rotary Tourism Awards this year.

This was announced by Robert Lim Joseph, chairman of the Rotary Club of Manila Tourism Committee, as he disclosed the list of distinguished recipients of this year’s seventh RCM Tourism Personality Awards. They will be awarded during the RCM’s regular meeting at the Manila Polo Club in Makati today.

Leading this year’s awardees is Candaba, Pampanga Mayor Jerry Pelayo who has made possible the conversion of the once sleepy town into a top tourist destination, specially those lovers of birds.

Another awardee is Vicky Wallace, owner of Bohol Bee Farm, whose resort and restaurant is more than just a tourist facility but an organic farm that offers organic delights and serves as a center for livelihood and sustainable development.  

One more awardee is Ambassador Alfredo Yao, president and CEO of ZestAir, one of the newest budget airlines in the country, which has helped stimulate travel to tourist spots.

Also being awarded is Belgian Philip Bartolomi, GM of Century Park Hotel, a five-star business hotel, who has made sure “guests can experience the warmth of Filipino hospitality.”

Another expat in the list of awardees is German Goran Aleks, GM of Sofitel Philippine Plaza, who has imposed his own brand of management to raise the bar on service and luxury.

The only awardee to come from media is Christine Dayrit of The Philippine Star. Her travel articles about dream destinations not only in the Philippines but also in Europe, Asia and the US have made traveling more exciting and something to look forward to.

The other awardees are Clang Garcia, managing director of Jeepney Tours, whose jeepney tours around Metro Manila are gaining accolades among foreign visitors for their unique offerings; and Zara Dejaresco, owner of Angel’s Wings Tours and Travel, and Panglao Island Nature Resort & Spa.

The RCM Tourism Personality Awards are being given in cooperation with Skal Club International, Tourism Educators and Movers (Team) Philippines, Ralph’s Wines and Spirits and Travel Cooperative of the Philippines.