It started as a vision, the establishment of Mindanao’s first 5-star international hotel that will spur the growth of Davao and Mindanao as a premier business and tourism destination. These were the thoughts shared by Marco Polo Davao’s founding chairman and current Secretary of Finance, Carlos “Sonny” Dominguez III during the 20th Anniversary gala of the hotel last December 7.
Indeed, when the hotel opened its doors in 1998, it immediately redefined the Davao travel experience giving international level hospitality and accommodations and food experiences. Fast forward to the present and the Marco Polo Davao magic is still in the air, giving travellers a higher level of comfort and convenience unheard of at that time.
The hotel’s milestone occasion was made special with the presence of President Rodrigo Duterte, its VIP guests from the business sector, diplomatic corps, government, media, Davao’s socialites, and the hotel’s past general managers who made their mark in the property.
“We are honoured that the Founding Chairman, Secretary Dominguez, had the bold vision and determination 20 years ago to partner with our company to establish an iconic, internationally acclaimed hotel. Marco Polo Davao soon became the epicentre of events for the city, and today prides itself on being the Heart of Davao,” said Wharf Hotels Management President Dr. Jennifer Cronin.
Dr. Cronin also presented a Peacock embroidery artwork as a symbolic gift from WHM which means power and grace and continuous good fortune for Marco Polo Davao. The gift was received by Halifax Davao Hotel Inc.’s Chairman Bienvenido Tan and President Francis Ledesma.
President Rodrigo Duterte also gave a congratulatory message. Sharing fond memories of events and occasions he hosted and attended at the hotel while he was still the mayor of Davao City.
Guests at the event were treated to a Marco Polo Davao culinary journey through the sumptuous cocktail spread prepared by Exec. Chef Alex Destriza, which showcased Davao’s Malagos Cheese and Malagos Chocolates. Free-flowing beverages from Titania Wine Cellar, Wine Warehouse, Forth and Tay, Heineken and San Miguel complemented the event.
Aside from the wonderful food, guests attending the event were also treated to a wonderful night of artistry from the country’s leading violist Maestro Alfonso “Coke” Bolipata, renowned concert pianist Najib Ismail and international opera singer Mee Hai Cho. Davao-based musical group, Songspell Philippines Inc., performed a musical excerpt from The Greatest Showman while the group’s alumni performers rendered classic Broadway songs.
The Marco Polo Davao has truly become a landmark in Durianburg. Not only standing as the tallest building on Mindanao for over a decade, but also as the heart of the city, setting cadence for the tourism and hospitality industry of Davao and making Dabawenyo stories, events, and memories ever more exciting and fun.
