Synergized Horizons: HRAP Holds Landmark 2026 General Membership Meeting at Marriott Manila
14 MAY 2026
PASAY CITY, PHILIPPINES – What an incredible day of connection, vision, and industry-defining dialogue! On May 14, 2026, the Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP) successfully concluded its General Membership Meeting (GMM) at the prestigious Manila Ballroom of the Marriott Manila at Newport World Resorts.
Under the compelling theme, "Synergized Horizons: Strengthening Philippine Tourism and Hospitality Through Multi-sectoral Connectivity and ASEAN 2026 Leadership," the event brought together titans of tourism, hospitality, aviation, and academia. The vibrant energy in the room was a powerful testament to the resilience and unified strength of the industry.
Setting the Stage for Progress
The event commenced with warm welcome remarks from Mr. Bonifacio Pimentel, Vice-President of the HRAP Restaurant Division and Owner & President of Ilustrado Restaurant. He set a collaborative tone for the day, which was further elevated by the presence of the event’s Guest of Honor, Department of Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay.
The President’s Report: Advocacy in Action
HRAP President Mr. Eugene T. Yap delivered a comprehensive President’s Report, highlighting the association's active seat at the table on critical national issues. Mr. Yap noted HRAP's vital legislative and societal contributions, including involvement with the:
Child Tourist Safety Act
Filipino Music Act
Committee on Agriculture
Anti-Endo & Strengthening Security Tenure initiatives
"I am very thankful to my fellow directors who have represented HRAP in various engagements whenever I was unable to personally attend," Mr. Yap stated. "Their commitment and support have greatly contributed to ensuring the Association’s active presence and participation in these important undertakings."
Embracing ASEAN 2026 Leadership
The audience was treated to an insightful presentation by Keynote Speaker Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso, who addressed the audience on the topic of Philippine Chairship and Regional Leadership. With the Philippines assuming the ASEAN Chairship in 2026, Usec. Buensuceso mapped out the country's strategic participation in ASEAN’s tourism framework, its leadership role in the Committee on Tourism Hospitality, Tours, Social Events, and Site Enhancement, and its critical duty as the Lead Country Coordinator of ASEAN Tourism.
Unveiling the Future: 2026 Preferred Suppliers Directory
A major milestone of the afternoon was the enthusiastic unveiling of the "HRAP Preferred Suppliers Directory 2026 Edition." Leading the launch were industry leaders Mr. Eugene Yap, Mr. Bonifacio Pimentel, Mr. Tomas Balete, and Dr. Mark Irvin Celiz, signaling a new wave of B2B synergy for the association's network.
Dynamic Dialogues: The Panel Discussions
The core of the afternoon featured a powerful trilogy of panel discussions exploring transformative insights for the roadmap ahead. The high-momentum conversations were expertly guided by master moderator Ms. Ma. Christina Aquino.
Panel 1: Infrastructure of Impression
The Impact of New Airports and Transport Links on Guest Experience
• Ms. Maria Lourdes Japson (PHILTOA)
• Mr. Marvin Noel Cui (Sunlight Air)
• Mr. Jose Paulo Marimla (Cebu Pacific Air)
Panel 2: The Talent Pipeline
Bridging the Gap Between Hospitality Education and Multi-sectoral Needs
• Ms. Cleofe Albiso (Megaworld Hotels & Resorts)
• Dr. Maria Cynthia Rose Bautista (EDCOM II)
• Dr. Lilibeth Aragon (Lyceum of the Philippines University Manila)
Panel 3: Allied Synergy
How Specialized Suppliers Drive Innovation in Modern Hospitality Design
• Ms. Xialeemar Valedeavilla (Xiameer Marketing Services)
• Ms. Rosanna Laurel-de Dios (LPU Cavite)
• Mr. Gabriel Avelino Sampedro (Philippine Coding Camp)
A Celebration of Community and Culture
A Feast for the Senses
Beyond the high-level strategic insights, attendees were treated to a sumptuous lunch curated by Marriott Manila. The dining experience was beautifully paired with world-class, soulful entertainment provided by Mr. Joey Lina of The Manila Hotel and Mr. Raymond Gorospe.
Welcoming New Voices & Celebrating Winners
In a momentous ceremony, HRAP officially inducted its newest batch of members! The community is thrilled to welcome these fresh perspectives and organizations as the association grows even stronger together.
The excitement escalated through the afternoon with the much-anticipated raffle draws. Congratulations to all the lucky winners! HRAP extends its deepest gratitude to the generous donors from the Hotels, Restaurants, and Allied Divisions for providing amazing prizes and giveaways that livened up the day.
A Collective Thank You
HRAP expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Guest of Honor Hon. Sec. Dita Angara-Mathay, Keynote Speaker Usec. Verna Buensuceso, and all the expert panelists for dedicating their time and invaluable expertise.
Special recognition goes to the members of the Hotel, Restaurant, Allied, and Affiliates Divisions—with a special salute to the Associate (Academe) Division, who brilliantly spearheaded this successful event.
Together, HRAP and its members are truly strengthening the horizons of Philippine hospitality!
Want to see more highlights? Check out our photo gallery below
