Araneta Hotels, Inc., the company responsible for the first Novotel and ibis Styles in the Philippines, is excited to share its achievements at three respected events.
The Philippine Culinary Cup (PCC) highlights the expertise and abilities of Filipino chefs on a globally accepted stage. This year’s event, in collaboration with LTB Chefs Association Philippines, the Pastry Alliance of the Philippines, and PEPTarsus Inc., was held between July 31 and August 3, 2024.
Novotel team’s Athena Tuble was among the silver medalists in the Individual Challenge, earning two silvers for her exceptional performance in the US Beef and US Poultry categories. Ed Jilliane Castro, Armani Labonete, and Arwin Abracia emerged victorious in the Dream Team Challenge, while Jeremy Espano and Regine Gil of ibis Styles excelled in the Filipino Team Challenge, along with Rovie Pascua and Arlene Gamueda from Novotel Manila, who also won silver medals. Jay Russel Yalong from ibis Styles won a bronze medal in the U.S. Poultry category, while Imee Julia Rivera from Novotel Manila Araneta City received two bronze medals in Pasta and U.S. Pork in the Individual Challenge.
Ed Jilliane Castro won third place in the U.S. Lamb division, while Honorato Steven Hirohito “Nikko” Moslares IV from team ibis Styles caught the judges’ attention in the Pasta category and took home a bronze medal. Winston Bawat and Mary Joy Cabayes secured third place in the Filipino Team Challenge, just like Ahna Victoria Mano and Hazel Joy Dequito.
Executive Chef Massimiliano Pauletto highlighted the importance of these awards in fostering the development of young culinary talent in the Philippines, stating,”This contest isn’t just about earning medals but also about challenging limits and uncovering the vast capabilities of our innovative chefs.” Felicia Aye Chan Mon, resident manager of ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, added, “The Philippine Culinary Cup 2024 has once more showcased its significance in promoting Filipino culinary skills, establishing higher benchmarks for quality on a domestic and global scale.”
The Philippines’ Leadership Awards 2024, hosted by the World HRD Congress in partnership with CMO Asia, recognized companies with exceptional employee satisfaction. Araneta Hotels, Inc. was recognized for its commitment to creating an outstanding workplace, nurturing employees’ growth, and promoting a healthy work-life equilibrium.
Araneta Hotels, Inc. was also recognized as a winner at the Asia’s Best Employer Brand Awards 2024, which took place in Singapore. Recognized by CHRO Asia, the award honors companies that successfully use marketing communications to attract, develop, and maintain talent. “This recognition is more than just a testament to our achievements; it reflects the heart, passion, and dedication of every member of the Araneta Hotels team,” said Kristine Alba, director of Talent & Culture.
Meanwhile, Novotel general manager Maria Manlulu-Garcia was honored with the Exemplary Leader Award at Asia’s Best Employer Brand Awards held in Singapore, presented by the esteemed Dr. Tarita Shankar. This recognition highlights her remarkable contributions to the hospitality industry, showcasing her exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to driving positive change. Through this award, Maria aims to inspire and empower more women to pursue their ambitions and excel in various roles within the travel industry.
