Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort marked its 35th Anniversary on July 18, with a revelation of a new development — a 6-storey mid-rise building called Sidlakan, which adds 65 more rooms to the resort.
Bluewater Maribago started 35 years ago in a 7-hectare property as one of the first beach resorts to line the coasts of Mactan island in Cebu, and has grown to be an icon in the vicinity. It has received multiple awards and accolades over the years.
In a speech during the anniversary celebration of the resort, Bluewater Resorts’ Vice President for Marketing, Margie Munsayac stated, “We have seen the phenomenal growth of Bluewater Maribago. From 32 rooms when we opened 35 years ago to what we have now is a total of 255 rooms. But let’s be honest, you can have the best rooms and the best services. But all of these are nothing without our very supportive clients.”
Bluewater Maribago is a 100% wholly owned Filipino chain of resorts showcasing the best of Filipino creativity and innate hospitality. Founded in 1989, it was built by the late Cebuano businessman, Arcadio C. Alegrado and wife Marle Montalban. The couple are survived with daughters June and Julie, and only son, Jovi. The Bluewater Resorts Group, over the years before the pandemic, has developed 190 rooms composed of royal bungalows, premier deluxe, amuma suites, deluxe rooms, and now the Sidlakan with 65 rooms.
CELEBRATING “WE AMUMA”
Reflecting the Amuma hospitality, a Cebuano tradition that embodies care, nurture, and provision, Bluewater Resorts has embraced it as a way of life. Assistant General Manager Domiku Ugarte, a third-generation owner, stated, “For 35 years, we’ve crafted experiences that honor our heritage while offering modern comforts. This celebration is our tribute to our guests and the community that has supported us.”
As Ugarte reflected on the journey of Bluewater Maribago, he said that it has been shaped by the countless memories shared here by families, friends, colleagues, and clients. Through the years, Bluewater Maribago has witnessed the union of many lovely couples, children who have grown up and returned with their own families, and served as a venue for businesses looking to foster unity among their teams. He also shared that even his wife had a picture at the resort when she was a baby, and that they also got married on the island in the resort.
CHANGING OF THE GUARD
Bluewater Resorts Group President Julie Alegrado Vergara, who has been involved with her late father’s business since its inception, is now preparing the management duties for her 36-year-old nephew, Domiku Sebastien Alegrado Ugarte. Together, they co-head the operations of the Bluewater Maribago, Bluewater Panglao, and Bluewater Sumilon brands. Ugarte as the Assistant General Manager, oversees the day-to-day operations as the resort chain gears up to cater to a new generation of clients.
With a team of young, dynamic individuals who are both educated and professional, Ugarte, the third generation of the Alegrado clan, is poised to become the lead executive of the Bluewater brand. He is ready to take on the full responsibility of shaping the future of the company and ensuring its continued success in the industry.
“Ever since I started to be involved in the business, we only had around 190 rooms,” Ugarte enthused. “This is actually what am excited about as Sidlakan is one of the first projects that I came onto from the start and have finished. It took longer to finish because of the pandemic,” he added.
Ugarte has chosen to study in the country and pursued a Business course at Enderun College, majoring in Finance. He plans to further his studies in hospitality at the Cornell University in the U.S. This decision is part of his meticulous preparation to take on the full responsibility of managing the family business in the future.
He also mentioned that during his first two years at the resort, he was hesitant to take on full responsibilities. However, as he began to immerse himself in his role, he developed a passion for the work. With each task he completed, he grew more comfortable and gained the trust of his mentors and peers. This increased responsibility has boosted his confidence, and he now feels very self-assured in his abilities.
At the moment, Ugarte wants to focus on their employees. His leadership style is centered on building strong relationships with his subordinates.
“I aim to be a friend to them and create a comfortable and equal work environment. I want them to feel safe and relaxed around me, not intimidated by my position as the owner’s son. I encourage open communication and collaboration, valuing their ideas and input. While I may have the final decision-making authority, I want my team to feel included and part of the decision-making process.”
“As long as we maintain the trust of our employees, our commitment to service excellence and the high standards we have held for 35 years, we can have the future we are looking forward to.”
Meanwhile, Munsayac concluded her speech and extend her heartfelt gratitude to the loyal clients during the Emerald Anniversary celebration. She put together meaningful words to the word THANKS and spelled it out with thoughts, “T is for Thanksgiving for walking with us through thick and thin. H for the Hope you gave us whether typhoon, earthquake, financial crises and most especially the pandemic. A for the Abundance of support and unwavering belief you have shown us. N is for the New beginnings you have helped us embrace. K for the Kinship that has transcended a mere client relationship to a true friendship. And S for your unwavering Support.”
The 35th-year celebration coincided with the formal launching of the Sidlakan building, showcasing the abundance of Filipino food and beverages, and giving appreciation to all the top producers, top corporate clients, and loyalty awards.
