Marco Polo Plaza GM Bryan Connelly: Banking on grit and Cebuano spirit to outlast the pandemic

CEBU, Philippines —  Five-star hotel Marco Polo Plaza Cebu strengthened its grit in keeping the hospitality business thriving amid the challenging industry-wide slump.

“We were challenged with the daunting task of facing an invisible enemy. But we are confident that our grit, combined with our Marco Polo and Cebuano spirit, will enable us to successfully overcome this pandemic,” said Marco Polo Plaza Cebu general manager Bryan Connelly.

According to Connelly, the Marco Polo team will continue to prioritize the health and safety of its guests and associates by putting responsible practices in place and keeping our service consistent and one of the best in Cebu.

“Cebu’s hospitality industry will come back stronger than ever to shine even brighter,” he added.

Just like other hospitality players in Cebu, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu is in the forefront of sustaining the industry by hoping against hope that the industry will rebound faster as expected.

Meanwhile, Department of Tourism DOT Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr., in a recent webinar, said that the Philippines is joining the world in the campaign on “domestic first, long-haul later.”

“We shall focus on domestic travel to jumpstart tourism in the country and to bring livelihood in tourism back. We will particularly pay attention to product development as we expect changes in consumer behavior and expectations,” said Bengzon.

The Covid-19 pandemic has devastated the supposedly booming tourism sector in the Philippines, and all over the world.

The Philippines recorded at least 55 percent slashed in revenue in the first four months of the year (January to April).