The Immaculate Conception and a special anniversary

On December 8, a sacred date in the Catholic calendar commemorating the Immaculate Conception, our family observed a unique tradition—one that intertwined religious observance with a celebration close to our hearts. This day marked the anniversary of our hotel, an annual convergence of faith, community, and familial ties.

Gathering in one of the function rooms, our family, alongside dedicated employees and cherished guests, participated in a meaningful mass. Following the spiritual observance, we relished a shared lunch, fostering connections and camaraderie. As twilight descended, the hotel transformed into a vibrant hub, welcoming hundreds of guests for a buffet dinner and lively dancing.

This tradition, an integral part of my formative years, played a pivotal role in shaping my confidence, particularly in the realm of public speaking. My cousin and I often found ourselves called upon to perform readings during mass, standing before a diverse audience of family friends and guests. Each passing year marked not only the success of the hotel but also a personal journey of growth and self-assurance.

Before the hotel became an institution synonymous with Iloilo City, before the foundations were laid, it existed solely as a dream harbored by my grandfather. In 1960’s Iloilo, the prospect of erecting a hotel of such magnitude initially appeared insurmountable. Yet, guided by the encouragement of his fellow businessmen—akin to the initial reluctance of the Virgin Mary when visited by the Angel Gabriel—my grandfather embarked on this ambitious venture.

The hotel, once a mere vision, evolved into a purpose and passion for my grandfather and, subsequently, our entire family. Beyond its physical presence, the hotel held the collective aspiration of making a positive impact on the lives of our guests by giving them a home and family away from home. Judging from the affirming feedback received over the years, it seemed we had succeeded. While the hotel may not be the savior of the world, the privilege of influencing and being a part of numerous lives felt like an extraordinary gift to us all.