April 2018 musings: All celebrations, no kidding


No fooling, April was a month of celebrations. For many, it was the time to wear that toga, walk on stage and receive the diploma. That’s something to be proud of—for both student and parents.

Around Davao, April is an important month for a few of the city’s movers and shakers.

The flag carrier, Philippine Airlines, came to Davao to celebrate an achievement—its 4-Star Global Airline Certification from Skytrax, the international rating organization. “It was the fruit of two years of transformation in fleet, cabins, products and services that demanded millions of dollars in hard investments and concerted efforts of all members of the PAL organization,” said PAL President and COO, Jaime Bautista.

 

Davao celebrations in April 2018

Francois Cognard of Bombardier, Davao Vice-Mayor Bernard Al-ag & Jaime Bautista, PAL President & COO at the PAL 4-Star from Skytrax + Bombardier gala event

 

One of the new aircrafts, the New-Generation BombardierQ400, was opened to PAL’s guests to check out. It’s comfy, I know, because this was my ride in the recent trip to Boracay from Cebu.

Seda Abreeza was soaring high as well. It celebrated its 5thyear anniversary this month and treated its clients and friends to an extravagant black and white celebration. As usual, the chef’s gastronomic creations were something to look forward to.

 

Seda Abreeza’s Jules Melencion, Faith Dimaano, HM Ken Kapulong & Chef Bang Flores during the 5th year anniversary event

 

The hotel on the north of the city had good news to share as well. Although the appointment was made early this year, it was this month that Park Inn by Radisson Davao officially announced to the public that Em Mauhay-Rosales is the hotel’s new General Manager. Em is the third lady GM in the Radisson organization and the first in the Philippines.

 

Davao celebrations in April 2018

Park Inn by Radisson Hotel recently announced Em Mauhay-Rosales as the new General Manager

 

Women are in the league of prime movers. These two Davaoeñas are epitomes of success (and style)- Joji Ilagan-Bian and Nicole Bian. They may be mother and daughter but in their line of business of running educational institutions, they are colleagues.

The inauguration of the International Management School adds another feather on their cap. It’s an impressive building. Its facilities are created to mimic the actual working spaces of the corporate world. If you see it, you’d probably be inspired to go back to school again.

 

Davao celebrations in April 2018

Joji Ilagan-Bian & Nicole BIan at the inauguration of their new International Managament School building

 

But since it’s the summer break (unless the school shifted its time schedule), why not take part in the Davao region’s most fun schedule. The Visit Davao Summer Festival 2018 is officially open. Check out the events to see, places to visit, food to eat, malls to shop in, art and music to immerse in, etc. at the. VDSF will take you to seven areas across the Davao Region. You’ll definitely have fun.

 

Davao celebrations in April 2018

VDSF Officials with event particpants at the kick-off party of VDSF2018

 

A couple of artists recently held their first solo exhibits. Both Daryl Descallar and Nina Custodio’s journeys to art are stirring. The two artists underwent health challenges—Daryl almost lost his eyesight and Nina battled cancer—and art was part of their healing process. Congratulations Daryl and Nina, and keep those brushes moving!

 

Davao celebrations in April 2018

Daryl Descallar held his first art exhibit at Marco Polo

 

What Apple product do you have? Almost everybody has bitten into the Apple and owns a gadget or two. The brand’s popularity has increased and this is why iCenter in SM City Davao moved to a bigger space. The new store is more spacious and holds more products to sell. Check it out.

 

Davao celebrations in April 2018

Love Prado & guests at the opening of iCenter’s bigger showroom at SM City

 

You want to satisfy a food craving but you don’t want to leave the comforts of your couch. If you’re one lazy foodie, then this next good news is for you. Soon, if not this May, foodpanda, the on-demand online food delivery service, will be in town. Now you can have your food delivered to your doorstep, enjoy it hot in front of the TV while in your PJs. Visit the foodpanda website to download the app.

 

Davao celebrations in April 2018

Rey Rubio shares foodpanda is opening in Davao soon

 

For travel stories, visit jeepneyjinggoy.com
Email me at jinggoysalvador@yahoo.com

Also published in the SunStar Davao newspaper.