SKAL International Makati, an association of travel and tourism professionals within the industry, has conducted its 5th fellowship and membership meeting while also welcoming new members to the organization.
Held at Okada Manila’s Chairman’s Lounge on Dec. 6, the meeting featured the addition of Okada Manila Vice Chairman Takako Okada and Okada Manila Vice President for Sales and Marketing Cielo Reboredo.
Speaking with Manila Standard Life, Reboredo shared how she came to join the organization through an invitation from SKAL International Makati board members vice president Angel Ramos Bognot, and treasurer Michael Albaña.
“I was able to join four general membership meetings in the past so I observed and we spoke with the members of SKAL as well as the officers. I could see that this was a very important organization that was worth joining,” said Reboredo.
After consulting with the vice chairman, both Reboredo and Okada joined the organization with the desire to be a part of SKAL’s mission for its stakeholders within the tourism and hospitality industry.
“We would like to be part of a very prestigious and reputable organization which aims to unite the stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism industry. We would like to network and synergize with the members of SKAL International Makati,” she said.
Reboredo added that because of Okada Manila’s position as the largest integrated resort in the Philippines, they would like to have a representation within the organization as the connections within it would be beneficial to their operations.
“When we joined SKAL, we met a lot of people, not just people from the restaurant, hotel, and tourism industry but also corporate clients. In that way, we can help one another to have a synergistic relationship with them. If they need requirements from Okada Manila, we will give service to them in the same manner that maybe the members can help us with any of our requirements for the future,” said Reboredo.
In her opening remarks for the event, Okada expressed how she was looking forward to collaborating and being a part of the organization.
“As I begin this journey with you all, I look forward to contributing to the advancement of our shared goals and values. Together, let us continue building bridges for goodwill and shaping a brighter future for the industry,” said Okada.
The event also awarded board of directors member Cynthia Carreon with a plaque that recognized her contributions not only to the field of tourism but also to sports as she is also the president of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) and a mentor to two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo.
Also joining the event were SKAL International Makati members secretary general Deedee Leodonio, Bognot, Albaña, former president Farid Schoucair, and many others together with several guests like Department of Transportation (DOT) secretary Jaime “Jimmy” Bautista.
First founded in 1934, SKAL International currently has members spanning more than 13,500 professionals within the travel and tourism industry in terms of business development, travel expertise, social network, and professionals database all over the world.
