By Emcee Go
On a rainy evening last Thursday, the first ever The Visayas Art Fair opened with fanfare, attended by art collectors, political personalities headed by Governor Gwen Garcia and Mayor Mike Rama, and big a crowd of Cebuanos. The well attended 4-day event at the Montebello Hotel was an initiative of the Cebu Design Week (CDW) Inc., in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas, the Sacred Heart School for Boys Batch 1985 Foundation and the Cebu Furniture Industries Foundation.
Ronald Ventura’s obra was the opening wall of the exhibit.
Celebrated artist Ronald Ventura at the Cuevas Retrospective.
A separate hall was created purposely to house art galleries from Cebu, Manila and Bacolod. Qube Gallery headlined with an impressive body of work by Cebuano artist Anton Quisumbing and Sio Montera. Quisumbing, noted for his metallic sculpture of churches, showed his latest collection with flat renditions of his otherwise 3D works, a series of architecturally defined lines that evoke his many churches. On one side of Qube was a booth with paintings done by UP Fine Arts students while on the other side stood a huge painting done by Bacolod-based Charlie Co, titled Lukbo (reportedly priced at 4M). Project Orange, the Bacolod based collective, was well represented, as well as from Manila, among them Metro Gallery where a Dino Gabito painting of a monotone drape was sold early on. Brisk sales were done as art lovers mingled with a surge of curious crowd who were there mainly for their IG feeds.
A trio of masters (left to right): landscapes by Fernando Amorsolo, Martino Abellana and Romulo Galicano from a private collection
Across the hall beyond the main driveway, in the central lobby, quietly facing the food stall of Tinderbox and Chocolates, a display wall featuring a Fernando Amorsolo, Martino Abellana and Romulo Galicano stood unguarded behind a large canvas of Ronald Ventura. Collectively, these 4 painting would be the Mona Lisa of the exhibit. The elusive Mr. Ventura famously sold an artwork titled “Party Animal” at Christie’s Live Auction in Hong Kong for a cool 120 million pesos recently.
Melo Esguerra, Laurie Boquiren, Qube Gallery’s Mariz Holopainen and Charlie Co against Charlie’s red clown painting.
Late in the afternoon, an open auction of art pieces was going on — with jaw dropping figures of several zeros casually being thrown around, including another Gabito canvas that allegedly banged for 2M. Looking at the auction list, one wag was prompted to comment — I don’t know any of these art collectors, all names with 2 or 3 letters!
Congressman Toff de Venecia, architect Buck Sia, Esperanza Garcia and Butch Carungay
Other activities were on hand. The finalists of Miss Cebu 2022 were presented during a fashion show that featured the locally woven hablon creations of Dexter Alazas. Another fashion show by FIDA students got rained on and had to transfer indoors. Both were staged to perhaps attract the otherwise uninclined art audience, a laudable enough reason. Seen downing several goblets of celebratory Moët was CDW’s Butch Carungay, together with Congressman Toff de Venecia who was on hand to talk about his creative industry initiatives in Congress, and Isa Garcia, perhaps eyeing more artwork for her dad Winston Garcia’s old masters.
The last, and best attraction of the Cebu Art Fair, at least in the opinion of this magazine, was the impressive pavilion housing the Tito Cuevas retrospective. The modernist Cebuano artist operated for many decades at his humble home near the Cebu Capitol. Cuevas passed away in 2012. This would be the first time his body of work is displayed, and the scope and breath of his genius is impressive, largely undiscovered except to his avid collectors. In this exhibit, 2 paintings of self portrait was a fun and irreverent play of colors and multiple heads with different expressions, part of the artist collection now belonging to his family. The 36 x 36 canvases are currently priced at P990,000. A large part of the Cuevas exhibit is owned by art-lover Michael Dino and his wife Christine. Dino has been buying the Cuevas for some time, and now his more than 20 artworks anchors this retrospective. “This is his last work and remains unfinished”, Christine Dino explained when asked why the huge splash of orange and yellow canvas was in prominent position.
Noted art collector Michael Dino and wife Christine has been collecting Cuevas for a long time.
Michael Dino is in a unique position to pull off this feat. As the Presidential Advisor in Cebu, he has at his disposal the many government agencies needed to help. Add to that his genuine love of collecting art, and access to the city’s only estate hotel, Montebello. “It was a collective effort,” he answered when we congratulated him. “Have you seen the wall of our next project,” he further tells us. This would be CICAD, the exciting new chapter of Michael Dino’s passion with art. But that would have to be another story.
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Upon entering the hotel’s main lobby, guests can already feel the holiday cheer. All the halls are decked with decorations, with the star of the night—the Christmas Tree—right in the center of the lobby.
“We’ve been preparing a lot for Christmas,” says Eve Marie Grace “Concon” Kintanar, Head of Sales & Marketing and OIC Hotel Manager. “The Filipiniana theme inculcates in our minds how important our Filipino roots are, to promote more on Filipino products, to promote more Filipino culture, and Filipino arts.”
Keeping true to its old world charm mixed with modernism, Montebello Villa Hotel incorporates the “Filipiniana” theme into their decor through an ingenious use of abaniko, a traditional Filipino fan made with dried anahaw (a type of indigineous palm) leaves, by folding it in half to look like a flower vaguely resembling the anthurium. Small parol (lanterns) made of capiz shells also hang on the tree’s green branches.
Designed by the hotel’s Executive Housekeeper, Rey Sebastian, the overarching theme of native-inspired decor has a touch of gold and silver. Sheer gold bows and ribbons turn the tree into a gift in itself, while accents of white snowflakes hint at a fragile beauty.
Aptly called Kasadya sa Montebello, the ceremony was put together with efforts from the whole Montebello Villa Hotel family.
“Kasadya means being happy, being jolly,” explains Concon. “It’s what we need for Christmas. It’s a depiction also of resilience and bayanihan, which are our best traits. We have to remember that in times of crisis, the Filipino resiliency is very important.”
Concon also emphasizes that what’s important is rising up after difficulties, no matter the numbers of falls.
At Montebello Villa Hotel, guests can also enjoy special holiday-themed food offerings, such as the Whole Stuffed Turkey (Php4,800), available through pre-order basis for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
For more information, follow Montebello Villa Hotel on Facebook and Instagram, or visit their website at http://montebellovillahotel.com.
]]>styling Vanessa East
make-up Janice the Beauty Fairy
wardrobe Yoko Sato Atelier
models Bianca Willemsen and Jewel Buot of Stacy’s Model Management
When was the last time you took things slow?
It’s a question that you’ve probably heard from other people, or one that you’ve asked yourself. With today’s fast-paced lifestyle, we’re always moving from one thing to another, and onto the next one immediately after. It probably isn’t often that we take advantage of our downtime; we might be taking care of personal errands or trying to be productive by completing unfinished work—and that’s on top of navigating through the unpredictable traffic that (more often than not) paralyzes Metro Cebu, which takes a good chunk of our time.
Life doesn’t come with a pause button, even if we wish otherwise. This means breaks are doubly precious, though. Making the most of a break doesn’t necessarily mean flying off to another country for a 3-day adventure or splurging to spend a night at the most expensive hotel overseas—a quick drive into the heart of the city is all you need to unwind. You may be thinking, ‘Wait, aren’t we supposed to get out of the city?’, but it’s actually not necessary when an oasis is located right at the heart of it.
Luxurious comfort
Nestled in the busy area of Banilad, Montebello Villa Hotel is the getaway destination that stood the test of time throughout the past five decades. Montebello Villa Hotel is best known for its lush, sprawling gardens, complemented by the hotel’s nostalgic, old-world charm. It’s served as a second home to Cebuanos over the years, its halls having witnessed weddings, birthdays, reunions, parties and other significant life events.
Their rooms are spacious and well-designed; the clay tile floors, dark wooden furniture, and the tastefully-picked decor give the feeling of coming home. Its design pays homage to heritage, marrying the classic with modernity. The newly-renovated rooms feature contemporary amenities and international-standard facilities designed to meet the needs of the meticulous travelers in leisure and business. Some rooms feature a balcony with a view of Montebello’s sprawling lush tropical gardens perfect for complete relaxation.
Relaxing scenery
To truly enjoy Montebello’s beauty, a walk through the gardens is a must. Traverse through the rich greenery of the sprawling property, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Walk across the iconic bridge over the lagoon in Jardin de Zelia, which grants you an unhindered view of the garden.
Montebello’s iconic bridge at Jardin de Zelia is the perfect backdrop to your outfits.
For those staying with family or children, fishing at the lagoon is a fun activity that suits all ages. Guests may also trek through the Hiking Trail within the property, to fully appreciate the scenic landscape. The hotel is chock-full of beautiful spots that may serve as the backdrop to your meticulously-planned outfit of the day—here’s a tip: colourful or pastel tones look best!
Holistic wellness
Montebello promotes a healthy lifestyle, and has several facilities available for guests to avail. Its wellness center makes sure guests can work out a sweat while enjoying a panoramic view of the garden. There’s also Yoga at the Garden on the weekends, for those who prefer a more relaxing form of exercise. Guests may also swim laps at the main swimming pool, or opt for a leisurely swim at the resort pool.
To supplement the fitness activities, healthy beverages are available at the Pool Bar, including freshly-squeezed fruit juices and special concoctions such as the Goddess and other green drinks.
A service-oriented team
Clockwise from lower left: Charmaine “Cha” Cortes, Julie Ann Marie “Jam” Erauda, Christina “Tina” Eturma, Dennis “Cio Den” Baracao, and Eve Marie Grace “Concon” Kintanar.
Behind the hotel’s excellent amenities and beautiful scenery is a marketing team that ensures their service measures up to their reputation. Made up of five fun-loving and creative individuals, Montebello’s marketing team is passionate to delight and meet the needs of their meticulous guests.
“In today’s leisure & travel industry, wherein properties and destinations have sprouted everywhere you’ll have to double your efforts in order to stay competitive. However, when we talk about garden hotel within city there’s only one name you can think of,” shares Eve Marie Grace “Concon” Kintanar, the Head of Sales & Marketing and OIC Hotel Manager. “The resort feel and sprawling lush garden have always been our unique selling point. Who’d ever think there’s an oasis within the city? Not to mention the warm and genuine Cebuano hospitality that is truly the Montebello way, truly, a unique experience for every guest.”
From L-R: Julie Ann Marie “Jam” Erauda, Christina “Tina” Eturma, Dennis “Cio Den” Baracao, and Charmaine “Cha” Cortes.
Concon’s team, composed of Dennis “Cio Den” Baracao, Charmaine “Cha” Cortes,, Christina “Tina” Eturma, and Julie Ann Marie “Jam” Erauda, is a mix of long time-serving employees and millennials.
“I always make it a point to balance my programs for their betterment,” Concon shares. “Also, I respect the differences of my Team and give them room to express themselves properly through regular General Manager’s and Departmental meetings. I also let each team member own their portion of the project so that they will learn to develop ownership and responsibility being leaders. Should there be any conflicts, I make sure I can address it properly and fairly.”
On a daily basis, the team is very busy with their individual tasks—these include designing, responding to online reviews & inquiries, preparing for upcoming events & creating content. Once a week, they huddle together to discuss several matters that involve marketing, their strategies, current trends, their competitors and just about anything under the sun that would help let their creative juices flow.
On plans of expansion
With the volume of tourists—local and international—flying into Cebu after the renovation of the Mactan-Cebu Airport, we had to ask if Montebello Villa Hotel had any plans of expansion.
“Yes, there are plans of expansion probably by next year,” Concon divulges. “We are now nearly in completion of room renovations at our fourth wing and it is really something for our clients to look forward to.”
According to their marketing team, expansions for next year may be a mix of rooms and events venues. Whatever improvements are in store, we’re certain that it will stay true to the Montebello Villa Hotel brand.
“It will be exciting, so please stay tuned and support us all the way,” she adds.
Truly, the hotel brings together classic design elements and modern luxury for an experience that epitomizes what Montebello Villa Hotel has to offer. Just like Concon said, who would think that there was an oasis within the city? On your next day off, a relaxing getaway awaits at Montebello Villa Hotel.
For the latest updates and information on Montebello Villa Hotel, you may check out their Facebook and Instagram pages, or visit their website at www.montebellovillahotel.com.
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Nestled quietly in Banilad, Cebu City, a second home for Cebuanos for almost five decades, demonstrates how a little bit of history can go a long way. With its nostalgic charm and emphasis on heritage it’s nice to see a “home” that its history shows how the classics can really stand the test of time. Even its newest and freshest rooms feature the grandeur of its distinct Old-world charm that immediately envelopes you once you enter it. The clay tile floors, dark-washed wooden furniture grounding the space with Earth tones, and the details of the ceiling tend to incite nostalgia and immediate relaxation. One of the highlights of the rooms is it’s far more spacious than many of the hotel rooms you’ve gotten used to. Truly bringing together classic design elements and modern luxury for an experience that epitomizes what Montebello Villa Hotel has to offer. The new rooms feature modern amenities and international-standard facilities designed to meet the needs of the meticulous travelers in leisure and business. Some rooms feature a balcony with a view of Montebello’s sprawling lush tropical gardens perfect for complete relaxation.
Most of the rooms have been refurbished within the last five years, 25 of which have been refurbished, and will be made available this year. Tucked into the fourth wing of the Hotel, they’re called the Deluxe with Balcony rooms, and they have the best view of the colorful Bougainvillea garden and the lush green foliage that casts its warm glow in the afternoon as the sun sets which is why Montebello is figured often in guests’ Instagram posts.
Truly, time seemed suspended in Montebello Villa Hotel. In an institution that pays homage to its rich history. It is only natural to go back to the simple, slow-paced life away from the hustle of work days and the din of technology when the world gets too overwhelming. One can always take a trip through history with a little getaway not far from where you are.
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Enjoy a Beach Getaway at Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu
Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu’s offering promotions for you to enjoy your summer! They’re offering accommodations for as low as PHP7,500 nett for the Superior Atrium View, PHP 8,300 nett for the Deluxe Peninsula View and PHP10,000 nett for the Suite King Atrium View. Accommodation is for 2 adults and 1 child (11 years below), with a complimentary buffet breakfast!
Venture Out Into the World with Cathay Pacific
It’s time to see more of the world. From Hong Kong to Istanbul, Cathay Pacific‘s got you covered. Rates begin at USD198. Book your flights here.
Plan Your Next Staycation at Montebello Villa Hotel
Fancy a relaxing escapade that’s not too far from the city? Montebello Villa Hotel’s the perfect place. To know more details, click here.
For inquiries and reservations, call (032) 231 3681
Happening This Weekend!
April 13: Weekend Turns One!
Known for their their indulgent menu offerings and the lineup of specialty cocktails, Weekend celebrates their first anniversary with a bang. DJs Divine Maitland-Smith and Marlon Orellano will be at the decks with some proper house music.
9:30 PM – 1:30 AM at Weekend, The Greenery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Kasambagan, Cebu City
April 14: Go Stargazing
The stars are calling to you. The Cebu City Public Library—which is now open 24/7—is celebrating its 99th anniversary through the #LookUp stargazing event on Saturday, April 14. Let’s discover the cosmos together!
7:00-10:00 PM at Cebu City Public Library, Osmeña Blvd., Cebu City
April 15: Cebu YogaFest
Start your yoga journey or re-ignite your passion for your practice, learn from health and wellness experts, relax outdoors on beautiful lounges and bask in good vibes all around!
Montebello Villa Hotel, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave., Banilad, Cebu City
Click here to know more.
April 15: Black Letter Calligraphy Workshop
Summer’s a great time to brush up on your calligraphy skill—or get started on it.
12:30 PM at The Grid Pad and Creative Campus, Talamban
Learn more about the workshop here.
Here are 5 spots where you can marvel at some of the spectacular Christmas Trees all over Cebu:
Radisson Blu Hotel’s Christmas tree
Radisson Blu Cebu
Upholding to the establishment’s theme, Radisson Blu lights up their Christmas tree with an accent of blues and whites. Radisson Blu’s Christmas tree signals the beginning of the merriest season of the year. In fact, the tree’s ornaments can be bought and proceeds shall help support Smile Train Philippines’ campaign to give free operations to children with clefts.
Cebu City Marriott Hotel’s Christmas tree
Cebu City Marriott Hotel
Marriott Hotel made sure not to miss any beat as it adorned its traditional lush green tree with fiery red bows, flowers and other Christmas trinkets. The bold embellishments of the tree was also emphasized by the hues of silver and gold, giving more life and color to the already glamorous Christmas tree.
Montebello Villa Hotel’s Christmas tree
Montebello Villa Hotel
Kindling a sense of warmth and timelessness, Montebello Villa Hotel’s 14-foot Christmas Tree is bedecked with red and gold decorations that gives their guests the warmest welcome for the holidays. Giving great importance to family and traditions, Montebello Villa Hotel makes sure that everyone feels the absolute joy of the Holiday season.
Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu’s Christmas tree
Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, Cebu
Vibrant and highly dreamy, Shangri-La’s Christmas Tree is a true definition of a dream come true. With vivid hues of blue and gold, Shangri-La’s Christmas Tree will make you feel as if you are on a tour with the addition of a miniature hot air balloon on its design.
SM Seaside City’s Christmas tree
SM Seaside City Cebu
Raising it’s bars on a notch, SM Seaside City Cebu’s Christmas Tree awes everyone with its extraordinaire carousel underneath the actual Christmas tree. The 60-foot Christmas Tree was lighted with the presence of Marissa Fernan, Vice President of SM Holdings, together with other special guests. A performance from Cebu Philharmonic Orchestra also set the mood of the night even more aglow.
]]>Don’t know where to start? Zee Lifestyle has you covered with this list of the hottest New Year’s Eve parties! No matter where you choose to spend it, it’s how you do so that counts more.
Marco Polo Plaza Cebu
The annual celebration begins right at the heart of the city. Marco Polo Plaza Cebu once again brings forth the grandest and exciting New Year’s Eve Countdown Party. At Php 900 net per person, guests will enjoy music by DJ Tom Taus, DJ Dexter Fly and Boyet Illustrisimo, two bar drinks and a magnificent fireworks display by Pyroworks. Further, guests will get a chance to win amazing prizes and round trip tickets to Taipei and Narita by Cebu Pacific.
Cebu Veterans Drive, Nivel Hills, Lahug
6332. 253 1111 | Facebook
Cebu City Marriott Hotel
Ring in the New Year with free-flowing wine and beer right at the heart of the city. In partnership with Spectrum, at Php 1900 net per person, enjoy the parties and the amazing raffle prizes at the Grand Ballroom and the Great Room with unlimited drinks and mesmerizing performances from the country’s top DJs. A splendid buffet spread at the Garden Café is also up for grabs at Php 3,800 net per person, inclusive of access to the Countdown Party.
Cardinal Rosales Ave., Cebu Business Park
6332. 411 5800 | Facebook
Radisson Blu Cebu
Have a Blu New Year at Radisson Blu Cebu as they welcome the New Year with a bang. Early bird rate is at Php 4,000 net per person inclusive of the biggest dinner buffet at Feria with free flowing sodas, local beers and chilled juices, and an all access pass to the New Year’s Eve Countdown Party. Regular Rate is at Php 4,500 net per person.
For those wanting to spend New Year’s Eve at home, you can still enjoy Radisson’s New Year’s Day lunch or dinner buffet at Php 1,450 net per person with free-flowing house wines, soft drinks, chilled juices and local beers.
Serging Osmena Blvd. cor. Juan Luna Ave.
6332. 402 9900 | Facebook
Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino
In your best all-white outfit, celebrate the coming of the New Year and enjoy Bacardi cocktails all night long at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. A huge selection of sumptuous seafood buffet awaits, ready for devouring. With the Sonata band and the country’s best DJs, it’s a party we’re all dying to go to.
Salinas Drive, Lahug
6332. 232 6888 | Facebook
Montebello Villa Hotel
Be at the biggest confetti-filled countdown and dance party in the metro! At Php 1,499 net per person, Montebello Grand Hotel’s Sparkle 2017 includes a grand dinner buffet paired with wine and iced tea. Get accessorized with sparklers and noisemakers while you enjoy show bands, dance shows, and a fireworks display to count down 2017. Plus, get the chance to win a round trip ticket to Hong Kong via Cathay Pacific. NYE Open Bar is only at Php 599 net per person.
Banilad, Cebu City
6332. 231 3681 | Facebook
LIV Super Club
Dress in white and party all night at LIV Super Club’s New Year’s Eve Solstice. The most splendid annual year-end white party commences the year alongside the dynamic trio BangHous3.
City Time Square, Mandaue City
632. 236 7986 | Facebook
The Sentral
As the year comes to a close, The Sentral brings in the ultimate year-ender party in the city. Party of the Year: A New Year’s Eve Special, dubbed as the party that’ll end all parties, welcomes 2017 with the country’s top hiphop Djs. Further, partygoers will have a chance to win a lot of exciting prizes from Bacardi.
Norkis Cyberpark, A.S. Fortuna St., Mandaue
63. 915 107 5200 | Facebook