A Night of Gratitude: A Joint Celebration Of Milestones By Park Inn By Radisson Bacolod And SMX Convention Center Bacolod
Pasko ng Pasasalamat: Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
The festivities began with the “Pasko ng Pasasalamat” event at Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod. Distinguished guests, including Ms. Cathy Nepomuceno, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Senior Vice President for Operations, and Ms. Deborah Haines, Radisson Hotel Group’s Senior Director of Operations for South East Asia and the Pacific, graced the occasion with inspiring messages.
Ms. Cathy Nepomuceno, in her speech, emphasized the theme of celebrating the resilient, hopeful, and eternally grateful Filipino spirit. She said, “As we light up this tree, let’s also illuminate our hearts with gratitude and kindness. Remembering that even amidst challenges, we can always find reasons to be thankful. This positive outlook makes life happier, more fulfilling, and truly Filipino.”
A symbolic dance performance, representing the clanging of a bell, kicked off the event. This tradition, known as “Arima” in Negrense culture, traditionally signals the start of the sugarcane harvest. In the context of the event, it symbolizes the beginning of the festive season.
Following the dance performance, a ceremonial tree lighting was led by Ms. Cathy Nepomuceno, Ms. Deborah Haines, and Ms. Agnes Pacis, SM Hotels Vice President for Commercial, assisted by Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod and Iloilo’s Area General Manager, Sherwin Lucas.
The event also featured a captivating serenade by Coro Recoleto of the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos.
Salamat Guid! SMX Convention Center Bacolod’s 10th Year Anniversary
Following the tree lighting ceremony, guests were invited to SMX Convention Center Bacolod to commemorate the venue’s 10th anniversary, aptly themed “Salamat Guid!”
SMX Bacolod and Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod joined forces to commemorate a decade of excellence with Salamat Guid: A Festival of Milestones in the City of Smiles, held on November 22. This collaborative celebration not only marked SMX Bacolod’s 10th anniversary but also officially introduced Park Inn as its premier catering partner, underscoring their shared vision to elevate Bacolod’s status as a destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), as well as life’s most cherished celebrations.
Over 350 guests, including government officials, loyal clients, and regional media, were welcomed with a captivating performance by the Domingo Lacson National High School Rondalla. Guests enjoyed cocktails, a Filipino-themed grazing table, and a coffee station, all thoughtfully curated by Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod.
The evening’s highlight was the grand unveiling of SMX Bacolod’s expansive dining hall, featuring four themed setups: Children’s Party, Debut, Wedding, and MICE events. Each vignette came alive with vibrant dance performances and matching themed décor, demonstrating the venue’s versatility for a wide range of occasions.
Key executives shared inspiring messages during the event. Mr. Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President for Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp, praised SMX Bacolod’s pivotal role in the events industry. Mr. Sherwin Lucas, Area General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod and Iloilo, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration’s potential to elevate client experiences. Mr. Michael Albaña, Vice President-General anager of SMX Convention Center, affirmed:
“SMX Bacolod is integral to Bacolod’s growth as an emerging MICE and celebrations hub. Our partnership with Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional service and innovative events for the region.”
Guests were treated to a diverse dining experience with themed food stations that echoed the event setups. From kid-friendly bites to sophisticated gourmet selections, the dishes showcased the culinary expertise of Park Inn’s team. Carving stations, food carts, and a mobile bar offering unlimited cocktails added to the evening’s vibrant atmosphere.
