HRAP General Membership Meeting 2025: GLOCAL Beyond Borders
The Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP) successfully held its General Membership Meeting on September 3, 2025, at the elegant Mayuree Ballroom of Dusit Thani Manila, Makati City, carrying the theme “GLOCAL Beyond Borders.”
The gathering brought together HRAP members from across the country, industry leaders, and distinguished partners, reinforcing HRAP’s role as a unifying force in the hospitality sector.
Opening Remarks
The program commenced with a welcoming address from HRAP President, Mr. Eugene Yap, who warmly greeted the HRAP Board of Directors and members from both Manila and the provinces. In his message, he reflected on the association’s recent milestones and urged members to celebrate collaboration:
“Today, let’s celebrate our ways, share ideas, and build stronger connections. This event is all about learning, growing, and working together to keep our industry shining locally and globally.”
Mr. Eugene Yap, Presiden of HRAP and General Manager of Bayview Park Manila
From left: David Andre Sison, Julio D. Sy Jr, Philip Moran, Eric Teng, Chef Robby Goco, and Raymund Reyes
Glocal Business Stories: Restaurants
The first plenary session highlighted “Glocal Business Stories” from the restaurant industry, moderated by David Andre P. Sison, President of Mama Lou’s Italian Kitchen. Esteemed panelists included:
Eric Teng, President Emeritus of RestoPH
Philip Moran, President of Caramia Sales and Services Inc.
Julio D. Sy Jr., President and Founder of Tao Corp.
Chef Robby Goco, Owner and Executive Chef of CYMA
Raymund Reyes, President of Aristocrat Restaurant
The panel delved into stories of resilience, innovation, and strategies for balancing local traditions with global business practices.
Commitment to a Smoke-Free Future
As co-presenter and major sponsor, PMFTC, Ms. Maru Lim Chuayap, Stakeholder Relations Manager of PMFTC Inc., reaffirmed its advocacy for a Smoke-Free Journey, underscoring its pledge to transition towards better alternatives to smoking. Through innovative, science-backed products and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, PMFTC demonstrated its continued commitment to community development and public health.
“As the market leader, we are committed to play an active role in making Philippine society smoke-free.”
Ms. Maru Lim Chuayap, Stakeholder Relations Manager of PMFTC Inc
From left: Bobby Horrigan, John Patrick Chan, Nicole Bian Hao-Ledesma, Alfred Reyes, and David Pardo Ayala
Glocal Business Stories: Hotels
The second session turned the spotlight on the hotel industry, moderated by Mr. Bonny Horrigan, General Manager of Acacia Hotel Manila. Panelists who shared their insights included:
David Pardo Ayala, General Manager of Discovery Primea Makati
Alfred Reyes, VP-Operations & General Manager of BAI Hotel Cebu
Nicole Bian Hao-Ledesma, President of Davao Tourism Association (DATA)
John Patrick Chan, Managing Director of The Bellevue Manila
The dialogue emphasized the importance of cultural identity, guest experience, and innovative practices in keeping Philippine hospitality competitive on the global stage.
Entertainment & Fellowship
MIkkel Tanalgo and Raymund Reyes
Attendees were treated to special performances during lunch, featuring promising artist Mikkel Tanalgo, Raymund Reyes, and a vibrant song-and-dance number by Mr. Steve Tamayo. The event also welcomed HRAP’s newest members, further strengthening the organization’s growing network.
Mr. Steve Tamayo
Mr. Boni Pimentel
Closing Message
The meeting concluded with Mr. Boni Pimentel, President of Ilustrado Restaurant, expressing gratitude to sponsors, exhibitors, and participants. He ended with an inspiring call:
“Together, let us continue to make our industry shine locally and globally.”
Exhibitors & Raffle Donors
HRAP extends its heartfelt thanks to its exhibitors whose contributions enriched the event: CSF Enterprise, CWS Philippines Inc. (Ahmad Tea), Excellence Appliance Technologies (Exatech), George Stuarts Philippines Inc., Harle Philippines Inc., Intexpro Inc., Island Air Products Corp. (Island Gas), Mega Intel Manpower Management Inc., NAB Trading Corporation, The LJC Restaurant Group and Perform, and SGS Philippines Inc.
Special appreciation also goes to raffle donors from the hotel, restaurant, and allied divisions for their generosity.
Looking Ahead
The successful meeting set the tone for continued collaboration and growth in the hospitality industry. HRAP members are now looking forward to the next General Membership Meeting on November 25, 2025, at Okada Manila.
