An inspiring community dream for the grassroots
After hearing so much about the Dauis Renaissance Program, an inspiring community initiative of the Ayala Foundation Inc., the diocese of Tagbilaran, the local government and the people, which aims to promote tourism and heritage conservation through sustainable developments, I was enticed to go back to Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa, the finest leisure and spa destination in Bohol, to see how the town’s natural and man-made resources were turned into income-generating opportunities through entrepreneurship programs to directly benefit the grassroot communities.
Upon the recommendation of affable Eskaya sales and marketing director Ralph Lim and the resort’s efficient concierge, I, together with a group of friends, immediately arranged for a tour to nearby Dauis in Panglao island, where we saw the beautiful restoration of the Assumption Shrine Complex, a pilgrimage center for Marian devotees, and the creation of livelihood acitivities for the locale, particularly in the Dauis Pilgrim- Heritage Center, a two-hectare complex transformed into a prime tourist spot with its major attractions: the Handumanan Souvenir Shop, the modern heritage-inspired Café Lawis, the Assumpta Museum, and the breathtaking seaside park Terraza de Mariveles.
Afterward, my group drove to Baclayon, where whale and dolphin hunters were encouraged to save marine life.
Through the program’s microfinancing, they were taught how to convert small fishing boats into tourism boats for dolphin watching and scuba diving.
To maintain our natural heritage, ancestral homeowners also decided to open their doors to provide home-stays and bed-and-breakfast, allowing visitors to experience the distinct Boholano culture and hospitality.
It was indeed a vision of a community dream coming to life! Mabuhay to Ayala Foundation Inc. and Eskaya for helping preserve and promote one of the country’s beautiful treasures!
Here comes the lucky moon
Makati’s capital for Chinese New Year festivities, the Mandarin Oriental, Manila, recently held an enchanting sheung yuet celebration to welcome the moon on the eve of the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival.
Led by Mandarin Oriental, Manila, general manager Mark Bradford, revelers dressed in elegant Chinoiserie were treated to a savory buffet of specialty dishes prepared by executive Chinese chef Hann Furn Chen while enjoying the traditional moon cake game, Pua Tiong Chiu, at the Captain’s Bar.
The highlight of the evening was an auspicious paai shan and lantern ceremony by international geomancer Joseph Chau, who blessed the audience with good chi to attract good fortune.
A prosperous year to all!
