MANILA, Philippines - Sofitel Philippine Plaza director of sales and marketing Rose H. Libongco was recently honored by the International School for Hotel and Restaurant Management (ISHRM) for her nationalism through her contributions to the hospitality and tourism sectors.
In a ceremony held at the Harbour Garden Tent of Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Libongco received a plaque of recognition from the ISHRM, the fastest-growing hotel and restaurant management school system in Region IV with locations in Habay, Las Piñas, Dasmariñas, Cebu and soon, in Davao.
“I believe in Philippine tourism as a source of delight for Filipinos and international visitors alike. The attraction of travel has grown to be a lifestyle globally and the Philippines has much to offer in the area of leisure, culture and heritage,” said Libongco. “In addition, the economic benefits are obvious as a source of much-needed job generation and ultimately dollar receipts second only to overseas workers remittances. Indeed, tourism holds the potential of alleviating poverty and propelling the Philippines to the level of developing countries. Now that the Tourism Act of 2009 has been passed, the private sector has acquired a legal voice in the boards that will run, manage and plan the direction of marketing and investments of Philippine Tourism. It is a breakthrough that the private sector must take seriously and the most capable representatives are being called and must come forth and serve.”
Libongco is the president of the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association of the Philippines (HSMA), president of Meetings, Incentive Travel, Events/Exhibitions (MICE) Philippines and is a member of the board of directors of the newly created Philippine Tourism Promotions Board (PTPB).