Mia Singson-Leon is a hospitality executive with more than two decades of experience in hotels and resorts across the Philippines and Thailand. As General Manager of Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, she leads strategic operations, guest experience, and people development at one of Cebu’s premier luxury resorts.

She began her career in human resources before expanding into resort operations and executive management. Her broad experience spans organizational leadership, commercial performance, talent development, and service excellence, enabling her to lead teams through growth and transformation.

Known for her collaborative leadership style, Mia champions sustainability, innovation, and genuine Filipino hospitality. She believes exceptional guest experiences are built on engaged employees, continuous learning, and a strong service culture.

Beyond her role at Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, Mia has been actively involved in the growth and development of Cebu’s hospitality industry. She has been a member of the Board of Trustees of the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, Inc. (HRRACI) since 2020, serving in various leadership capacities, including Vice President Hotel in
20212022 and 2024, Executive Vice President in 2023, and Chairman of the Cebu Tourism & Hospitality Awards (CTHA) from 2023 to 2024.

Since 2025, Mia has served as President of HRRACI, where she leads the association in representing the interests of Cebu’s hotel, resort, and restaurant industry. She works closely with government agencies, tourism organizations, industry partners, and HRRACI members to foster stronger collaboration, advance industry initiatives, and promote Cebu as a leading tourism destination. Under her leadership, the association continues to support programs and partnerships that benefit its members and contribute to the continued growth of Cebu’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Mia holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership Management from the Asian Institute of Management, a certification in Strategic Human Resources Management from Cornell University Ithaca, and Learning & Development from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Cebu Doctors’ University in 2000.

Domiku Ugarte is the General Manager of Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort in Mactan, Cebu, part of the proudly Filipino-owned Bluewater Resorts group. A third-generation member of the Alegrado family, he carries forward a hospitality legacy built on Amuma—Bluewater’s distinct Filipino philosophy of caring and heartfelt service. With a background in finance and extensive experience in hotel and resort operations, Domiku focuses on strengthening business performance while continually improving the guest and employee experience.

Beyond his role at Bluewater, Domiku has been actively engaged in Cebu’s hospitality and tourism industry since 2018 through the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, Inc. (HRRACI). He has been involved in major industry initiatives, including Cebu Goes Culinary, and currently serves as the Executive Vice President of HRRACI.

In 2026, he championed the HRRACI Sportsfest, an industry-wide initiative that brought hospitality professionals together through sports, camaraderie, teamwork, and healthy competition. His leadership reflects a balanced approach that combines operational discipline, financial stewardship, industry engagement, and a strong commitment to people development.

As part of the next generation of leadership in the family business, Domiku is committed to preserving Bluewater’s distinctly Filipino identity, values, and legacy while embracing innovation and new opportunities for sustainable growth. He seeks to help guide the organization into its next chapter by strengthening its people, operations, and industry position while honoring the foundation established by the previous generation.

With over 30 years of corporate experience, Ann Olalo is currently the General Manager of Radisson Blu Cebu, one of the flagship properties of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. under the Radisson Hotel Group.  Over two decades in hospitality, she has led Radisson properties in Clark, Quezon City, and Cebu to include Park Inn by Radisson Clark, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, and now Radisson Blu Cebu.

She is best known for leadership focused on people development. She is the first-ever recipient of the Radisson Hotel Group Talent Developer Award 2023 for Southeast Asia Pacific Region. Under her leadership, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA also won the 2023 Hotel of the Year Award. She is recognized as a Radisson Pioneer for Women in Leadership.

Since moving back to Cebu in 2025, she has deepened her advocacy for inclusive hiring. A strong advocate on empowering incarcerated women and giving second chances for Persons Deprived of Liberty, she has championed together with her team the Responsible Business initiative to offer Basic Housekeeping Skills Training for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Quezon City Jail Female Dormitory and Cebu City Jail Female Dormitory.

A vocal supporter of women in hospitality, she is active in Radisson Hotel Group’s DEI and Employee Resource Group advocating for learning and development, wellbeing, and visibility for women in the workplace.

Ms. Estrella Shrimski is a seasoned hospitality professional and accomplished leader with over 30 years of experience in food and beverage management, hotel operations, entrepreneurship, and education. As the General Manager Of Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa, she brings extensive expertise in hotel openings, restaurant developrnent, people management, and organizational sustainability.

Her international experience in Australia and Southeast Asia, combined with her work as a Hospitality Management educator and consultant, has allowed her to mentor and develop hospitality professionals across different cultures and environments. She is also actively involved in promoting sustainable food systems and innovation through her leadership roles in Fudewerx Solutions and CAFEi.

Recognized as a multi-awarded leader and mentor, Ms. Shrimski is known for her attention to detail, strong interpersonal skills, and commitment to developing Filipino talent. Her career journey reflects a strong combination of passion, leadership, innovation, and dedication to the hospitality industry

Ma. Sunshine Lim is the School President of Sto. Niño Mactan College and the SNMC School of Law, as well as the Executive Director of Sto. Niño Mactan Montessori School. She serves as District Chairperson of the Inner Wheel Clubs of the Philippines, District 386, and is the Founding President of the Inner Wheel Club of Lapu-Lapu.

An accomplished entrepreneur, she is the owner and proprietor of TravelCare Agency Corp., Heritage Boutique Shop, CHILL Café and Sweet Treats. Her other leadership positions include Vice President for the Restaurant Sector of HRRACI, Board Adviser and Stakeholder of the Aviation Security Unit Region VIl, and Advisory Board Member of the Philippine Air Force Air Mobility Command. She also served as Tourism Commissioner of Lapu-Lapu City from 2020 to 2023.

Dr. Joseph Stephen A. Descallar is a distinguished academic and professional leader whose career demonstrates sustained commitment to excellence in education, institutional development, professional leadership, and community engagement. He has held significant leadership positions in the academe, including Dean- College of Nursing, Vice President for Academic Affairs and School President of the Asian College of Technology – International Education Foundation, Inc. He earned his Doctorate Degree in Management and a short course in Asian Institute of Management complementing his professional background in nursing, management, and higher education. Dr. Descallar has demonstrated leadership within the nursing profession. He has served in various capacities in the Philippine Nurses Association, including national Vice President for Programs and Development, Governor for Region VII and PNA-Cebu Chapter President for 5 years. These positions reflect his extensive experience in professional organization management, leadership development, and capacity building.

Further, Dr. Descallar has been actively involved in the Hotel Resort & Restaurant Association of Cebu, Inc. (HRRACI) since 2017, serving as a member of its Board of Trustees and representing the academic sector. He is much involved in the annual Cebu Tourism and Hospitality Award and other HRAACI flagship programs. His participation in HRRACI reflects his commitment to strengthening collaboration between educational institutions and the hospitality and tourism industry. As an academic leader, he provides valuable perspectives on education, workforce development, professional preparation, and the development of industry-responsive programs. His involvement in HRRACI contributes to the organization’s efforts to promote professional growth, continuing education, training, and meaningful partnerships among stakeholders in Cebu’s hospitality sector. By fostering stronger linkages between academe and industry, Dr. Descallar supports initiatives aimed at preparing students and professionals with the knowledge, skills, values, and competencies required in an increasingly competitive hospitality and tourism environment.

His professional journey is characterized by a commitment to advancing education, strengthening professional organizations, and establishing productive partnerships among academic institutions and industry stakeholders. Through his leadership and active participation in HRRACI, he continues to contribute to the development of Cebu’s hospitality and tourism sector while promoting academic excellence, professional competence, and sustainable institutional collaboration.

Michael Sharpe is the founder and brains behind Krumble Inc., an importer and distributor of partially baked breads and pastries. In 2019, he joined HRRACI as a member of the allied suppliers group. Krumble Inc. aims to help Cebu’s tourism industry players automate kitchen processes without compromising quality. With Michael’s current position as VP for Allied Suppliers, his advocacy to serve the industry is likewise realized.

Ms. Juvy G. Ikeuchi is a distinguished businesswoman and hospitality industry leader whose professional career reflects a strong commitment to entrepreneurship, organizational leadership, and the advancement of Cebu’s tourism and hospitality sector. She serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Kukai Japanese Seafood Restaurant, Inc., where she provides strategic direction and leadership in the management and development of the organization.

With extensive experience in the business and hospitality sectors, Ms. Ikeuchi has established herself as a respected industry professional. Her leadership demonstrates a firm understanding of business operations, customer service, organizational management, and the evolving demands of the hospitality and tourism industry. Her professional experience has enabled her to contribute meaningfully to initiatives that promote cooperation and sustainable growth within Cebu’s hospitality community.
Ms. Ikeuchi is an active leader of the Hotel, Resort & Restaurant Association of Cebu, Inc. (HRRACI), where she currently serves as Treasurer. In this capacity, she contributes to the organization’s governance and institutional development while bringing her business expertise and industry perspective to the association’s programs and activities.

Through her continued service as HRRACI Treasurer and her leadership in the hospitality business, Ms. Juvy G. Ikeuchi exemplifies professional integrity, entrepreneurial leadership, and commitment to industry development. Her contributions reflect the vital role of private-sector leaders in strengthening partnerships, promoting hospitality excellence, and advancing Cebu’s position as a competitive and sustainable tourism destination.

Ma. Carmela G. Malagar is a hospitality professional with over 25 years of experience in feasibility study & development, hotel operations & audit, systems implementation, strategic planning, and organizational development, with both local and international exposure. Her professional strength lies in her ability to bridge international hotel standards and best practices with the realities of the Philippine hospitality industry, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao. Her expertise was further strengthened through her experience with Micros-Fidelio Regional Office as Regional Implementation Specialist for OPERA Asia-Pacific, and with Marriott International as Installation, Coordinator and Trainer Consultant, where she was involved in the implementation of Marriott standards across the Asia-Pacific region, including India, Australia and Hawaii.

She also served as Corporate Planning Director of Waterfront Philippines, Inc., gaining extensive experience in business development, standardization, revenue management, strategic planning, and corporate development.

For more than a decade, Carmela has focused on providing consultancy services for independent hotels and hospitality businesses, with expertise in hotel pre-opening, market evaluation, operational planning, financial feasibility, revenue management, standards and systems, and organizational development.

Carmela understands the critical decisions that owners and investors face during the conceptualization, feasibility and pre-opening stages of a hotel project and works closely with stakeholders and decision-makers through structured consultations and workshops.

Her approach combines strategic thinking, operational experience, financial awareness, and practical implementation, enabling hotel owners and management teams to make informed and sustainable business decisions.

As a member and Trustee of HRRACI since 2018, Carmela has actively contributed to the association’s programs and initiatives, including her involvement in Cebu Goes Culinary 2018, 2023, and 2025. She brings to HRRACI her extensive industry experience, international exposure, and strong understanding of local hospitality, translating these into meaningful programs that support professional development, industry collaboration, and the continuous advancement of Cebu’s hotel, restaurant, and tourism sector. Through her leadership and industry involvement, she advocates professional standards, accountability, continuous learning, and sustainable hospitality development.

Dr. Grayfield Bajao champions the hospitality industry in the realm of education. He has extensive training and linkages with top industry organizations both in Cebu and abroad, including The Royal Institution Singapore and the City & Guilds of London Institute. He also works closely with government agencies such as Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). Currently serving as Dean of the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Cebu – Lapulapu and Mandaue, he ensures the continued tradition of world-class service that Cebu’s graduates are known for.

No biography available.

Colleen Barcelona is a seasoned hospitality and human resources leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to service excellence, people development, and industry collaboration, values that strongly align with the mission of the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Association of Cebu, Inc (HRRACI). With nearly three decades of experience at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, she has developed a comprehensive understanding of resort operations, having held key leadership roles across human resources, front office, spa, and overall management.

Currently serving as Human Resources Head, Colleen champions talent development, regulatory compliance, and employee engagement, ensuring that organizational practices foster operational efficiency. She also serves as President of the Association of Human Resource Managers (AHRM) – Cebu Chapter, where she actively advances HR excellence, leadership development, and cross-industry collaboration. She is also a former Board of Trustee of Philippine Red Cross, Lapu-Lapu and Cordova Chapter.

Her academic and professional development includes executive education at Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, Harvard Extension School, and Chivasom Academy where she completed courses in leadership, conflict resolution, and team effectiveness and strategic management. These global learning experiences have strengthened her perspective and continue to influence her people-centered leadership approach.

Her experience as Assistant General Manager and Spa Manager has deepened her operational insight, allowing her to effectively bridge people management with guest experience. This dual expertise supports HRRACI vision of elevating service standards across Cebu’s hospitality sector. Colleen has also been an active contributor to Cebu Goes Culinary, one of HRRACI’s flagship events, participating for three consecutive events, demonstrating her commitment to promoting Cebu’s vibrant culinary and hospitality scene. With a collaborative leadership style and strong industry involvement, she continues to contribute meaningfully to HRRACI’s mission of strengthening Cebu’s position as a premier hospitality destination.

Jose “Joe” C. Cañete is a seasoned executive with extensive leadership experience in corporate IT strategy, digital transformation, and regional business operations. He currently serves as Vice President and Chief Business Operations Officer at the Delsan Group of Companies, where he directs overall operations and the development of enterprise software and digital solutions throughout the Visayas region.

Prior to his executive tenure at Delsan, Mr. Cañete established a distinguished career in hospitality technology, directing IT architecture, network infrastructure, and core property systems across its multi-hotel portfolio. He also served as a key member of the pre-opening team in major hotel brand in Cebu, leading the deployment of its modern digital infrastructure and enterprise hospitality systems.

A recognized leader in the local tech community, Mr. Cañete is a founding member and past president of the Cebu Hotels IT Association, an organization dedicated to advancing Information Technology standards and innovation across the regional hospitality sector.

A passionate leader with 22 years of continuous leadership through Toastmasters International and 21 years in the Hotel Industry. As a Toastmaster he has served various Club, Area, Division leadership positions and is a Past District Director of Toastmasters Philippines. He is an exceptional public speaker who represented the country during the International Speech Contests in 2017 and 2020 where he won third place in Vancouver. An inspiring motivator with a
track record of handling large organizations as a General Manager Hotelier. An engaged citizen with involvement in socio civic organizations as Cabinet Secretary of the Cebu Maginoo Lions Club and Auditor / Founding Member of Legions of Lapulapu Eagles Club.

He is a member of the board of trustees for the Hotels, Resorts, Restaurants, Association of Cebu Inc. also with the Cebu Chamber of Commerce Inc., American Chamber of Commerce – Visayas Chapter also currently serving as the Vice President for Internal Affairs of the Cebu MICE Alliance and the General Manager of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown.

Atty. Cenelyn Manguilimotan-Dalnay is a prominent and visionary leader in the Philippine tourism and hospitality sectors, renowned for her unwavering dedication to sustainable industry growth, regional collaboration, and economic development. With a strategic legal background seamlessly integrated with passionate tourism advocacy, she has spent decades shaping the landscape of hospitality in Cebu and across the nation.

In her current role as a Member of the Board of Trustees for the Hotel, Resort, Restaurant Association of Cebu Inc. (HRRACI), Atty. Dalnay brings a wealth of governance expertise and operational insight. She continues to champion the advancement of Cebu’s vibrant tourism ecosystem, tirelessly working to elevate local standards, empower hospitality professionals, and foster resilience among regional enterprises.

Her leadership extends far beyond HRRACI. Atty. Dalnay currently serves as the Chairperson for Tourism of the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP), where she bridges international partnerships and promotes sustainable tourism investments. Additionally, she contributes her strategic vision and civic commitment to public service as a Cebu City Tourism Commissioner, collaborating closely with government and private stakeholders to position Cebu as a premier global destination.

A steadfast pillar of the local tourism community, Atty. Dalnay’s enduring influence is rooted in her historical leadership within the association. She previously served with distinction as the President of HRRACI for the 2013-2014, guiding the organization through a pivotal era of growth and solidarity. Today, she remains a driving force, inspiring excellence and steering Cebu’s tourism industry toward a prosperous future.

No biography available.

Engr. Nigel Psalm Yap is a hospitality executive, entrepreneur, and civic leader with a professional background in Mechanical Engineering, hotel operations, tourism development, information technology, and organizational leadership. His multidisciplinary experience enables him to combine technical expertise, operational efficiency, strategic planning, and practical problem-solving in managing hospitality businesses and supporting industry and community initiatives.

He currently serves as General Manager of Pescadores Suites Moalboal, where he oversees the property’s overall operations, guest services, facilities, technology systems, business development, and continuous improvement initiatives. Under his leadership, the resort continues to enhance the guest experience while promoting responsible tourism, operational sustainability, community engagement, and the natural attractions of Moalboal.

As a hospitality leader, Nigel understands the challenges faced by independent hotels and resorts, including service quality, workforce development, digital transformation, cybersecurity, infrastructure management, revenue sustainability, and evolving guest expectations. His engineering background allows him to approach these challenges systematically, balancing technical requirements with financial practicality and the needs of guests, employees, owners, and the surrounding community.

Nigel is an active member of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) and currently serves in an acting capacity as District Director for Operations of the Coast Guard Auxiliary District Central Visayas (CGADCV). Through his service, he supports programs involving maritime safety, disaster preparedness, environmental protection, coastal community development, public health, and humanitarian assistance. His involvement reflects his commitment to applying his professional experience, leadership, and networks to initiatives that benefit communities and help save lives.

As a member of the HRRACI Board of Trustees, Nigel contributes his experience in hospitality operations, technology, public safety, and industry collaboration. His contributions include mobilizing and encouraging HRRACI members and hospitality personnel to participate in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training programs and blood donation drives. These initiatives support HRRACI’s life-saving mission by strengthening emergency preparedness, equipping hospitality workers with essential response skills, and helping maintain an adequate blood supply for patients in need.

Nigel also serves as a cybercrime representative for the Department of Tourism’s Tourist Iwas Scam, supporting efforts to protect tourism establishments and travelers from online fraud, impersonation, and other digital threats affecting the hospitality and tourism industry.

He further serves as Vice President for External Affairs of the PNP Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 7 Advisory Board, helping strengthen cooperation among law enforcement agencies, tourism stakeholders, private businesses, and community organizations. Through this involvement, he advocates greater awareness of cybersecurity, responsible digital practices, fraud prevention, and the protection of tourism-related businesses and consumers.

Nigel brings to HRRACI a combination of engineering discipline, hands-on hotel management, technological awareness, civic responsibility, and collaborative leadership. He advocates professional standards, innovation, industry resilience, workforce development, public safety, and responsible tourism practices that contribute to the continued advancement of Cebu’s hotel, restaurant, and tourism sector.

Serving as head of the restaurant group’s board of directors, steering each brand and department towards the fulfillment of business goals. Started Cafe Laguna after a long-standing career in the food industry as cafeteria operator and carinderia owner. Also under the group’s roster are Lemon Grass, Parilya, and Ulli’s Streets of Asia.