Issue 5
May - June 2014
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
THE
COVER
Issue 5
May - June 2014
Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.
With the Sewage Treatment Plant
project, MPC is able to reduce the
Club’s carbon footprint.
24 Optimum Wellness Center:
The One-Stop-Shop for
Healthcare and Wellness
25 MPC Archery Tournament
10-11 Letting All The Fun Go At The
Easter Sunday Celebration
Luis S. Campos
First Vice President
Santiago R. Elizalde
Second Vice President
Chairman's Tennis Cup 2014
EVENTS
Violeta P. Gallego-Kramer
President
SPORTS & ATHLETICS
Herminio S. Ozaeta Jr.
Corporate Secretary
26 Take It From The Coach:
Gary Tabernilla
John Aloysius S. Bernas
Treasurer
POLO & EQUESTRIAN
12 Mother's Day
28 Butch Albert:
The Multifaceted Man
William V. Coscolluela
Director
BANQUET
Narciso L. Eraña
Director
14 Turf Room
3 President’s Message
F & B
4 From the General Manager’s
Desk
David Lucas B. Balangue
Director
Maria Elsa A. Winhoffer
Director
15 Specials of the Month
MANAGEMENT
Maria Leonora A. Policarpio
General Manager
NEWS
Rosario M. Ilagan
5 MPC rolls out Sewage
Treatment Plant and Grey Water
Facilities Projects
Financial Controller
6 President's Cup Closes the 2014
Polo Season
Sports Manager
7 Annual Horse Show 2014
Gallops to a Thundering End
8 The Moment Of Truth:
Pacquiao-Bradley 2
Lifeline Ambulance at MPC
Rose de Guzman
Internal Auditor
Jwyn L. Baculinao
Jose Carlos S. Castañeda
Sports Development Manager
PROFESSIONALS AT
WORK
Reuben S. Tinio
Polo & Equestrian Manager
Enrique Z. Agus
18-19 Welcome to the Club
Congratulations Marlon Herrera
20 MPC's new "Kitchen CEO"
30 Kapihan with GM
GSD Manager
Atty. Lenie R. Basilio
Corporate Counsel and HR Manager
John Allen D. Herrera
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
Trunkline
Gen. Manager
Exec. Secretary Membership Publications Library Sports and Games Fitness Center
Golf Driving Range
Polo & Equestrian MIS HRD 817-0951 to 62
201 / 889-1024
290
210 / 202 / 203
205 / 817-7031
228
260 / 269
256
288
270
207 / 208
222 / 217
E-M@IL ADDRESSES
GENERAL MANAGER
[email protected]
MEMBERSHIP
[email protected]
SPORTS & ATHLETICS
[email protected]
PUBLICATIONS
[email protected]
F&B Operations Manager
Medical Clinic 252
Security
204 / 276
General Services Dept. 223
Concierge/Lobby 235
Housekeeping 219 / 261
Information 889-2507
Finance 239 / 291
Billing 214 / 215
General Cashier 216
Purchasing 220 / 221
Banquet Sales & Mktg. 300/ 244 /240
F&B
242 /279
Sports Lounge 281
LIBRARY
[email protected]
GENERAL SERVICES
[email protected]
FINANCE
[email protected]
BILLING
[email protected]
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM
mis_mgr@ manilapolo.com.ph
Tessa Baybay-Magcase
Sports Cafe
Cameron Forbes Willow Root - Nanten Soda Bar Last Chukker
Nanten
Pancake House
Coffee Bean
Men’s Locker Ladies’ Locker Ladies’ Massage Hairwatch Salon 246
292
230
250
273
230
267
294
259
286
254
237 / 238
RESTAURANT & BAR SERVICES
[email protected]
[email protected]
BANQUET SERVICES
[email protected]
[email protected]
BANQUET SALES
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
POLO POST is the official publication of the Manila Polo Club, Inc. Members and their dependents are welcome to submit their
contributions to the POLO POST c/o the Publications Office, Manila Polo Club, Inc., McKinley Road, Forbes Park, Makati City or email
us at [email protected]. Whole or part of this publication may not be reproduced without the written permission of the
Publications Department of Manila Polo Club, Inc. Official website: www.manilapolo.com.ph
Marketing and Banquet Sales Manager
John Rocky N. Leona
Financial Analyst
Dax C. Ilog
MIS Manager
Criselda D. Candolesas
Executive Housekeeper
Rogelio Roxas
Purchasing Manager
Rosario Protacio
Billing Manager
PR & COMMUNICATIONS
Isabel Caro Wilson
Chairman/ Editor
CJ B. Bismark
PR & Communications
Manager
Sakura B. Kato
PR & Communications
Assistant
Aries O. Villorente
Creative Design Specialist
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Dear Fellow Members,
You should have received the Voting Proxy forms to
amend the Club’s Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws
to include providing residential housing to members.
This addresses what may be deemed as an “Ultra Vires”
act of the Club, over the Townhouse project and is
essential if the Club is to enter into any leases after the
July 2018 expiration of the current 25 year leases. We
need a 2/3 vote of the membership, so please send in
your proxy forms by the end of May.
We have received questions about whether the By-Laws
amendments (2.2. 2.3, 2.4, 2.5) we are recommending
are new powers, and we want to clarify once more
that these powers are already in the Articles of
Incorporation. We are simply amending the By-Laws to
be consistent with the Articles.
FINANCIAL
Management just completed a Three-Year Financial
Roadmap process for the first time, and the Board has
approved their recommendation for next fiscal year’s
Operating (OPEX) and Capital (CAPEX) Budgets
(FY 2014-15). The Board has likewise accepted their
Financial Outlook for the two years after (FYs 201517). Management is responsible and accountable for
executing these plans and these financial goals will
be an important part of their performance appraisals
moving forward.
The Board has also approved a new Capital Project
Approval Policy for all projects greater than P2 million.
This process includes a comprehensive review of project
rationale, detailed technical plans, compatibility with
long-term master plan, financial capability and return
on investment (if applicable) on the project. The process
requires clear sign-offs from key managers and board/
committee members responsible for the project.
MARKETING
The Board has approved a new MPC Brand
Management and Marketing Policy, whereby a
centralized marketing function (management and
committee) is tasked to:
1. manage the MPC brand and logo usage;
2. organize marketing activities of the Club to increase
member patronage of Food & Beverage, Sports &
Athletics and Polo & Equestrian events;
3. solicit outside sponsors with the help and guidance
of member committees to enhance Club events,
maximize synergy and ensure that sponsor events
are in line with Club Core Values (Privacy, Respect,
Integrity, Diversity, Excellence)
4. leverage the MPC brand value with profit generating
merchandise licensing programs
MEDICAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE
The Board has approved testing a Point of Dispatch
(POD) for Lifeline Ambulance in the Club. There will
be an ambulance and medical emergency response
team on site at all times to respond to any Club medical
emergency in five minutes. Lifeline has also agreed
to conduct regular training for MPC employees to
enhance safety awareness and make the Club a safer
environment for everyone.
VIOLETA P. GALLEGO-KRAMER
FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER’S DESK
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
The Seafood BBQ Grill at the Cogons, which ran from March
to April, was also a huge success as family and friends spent
their Friday evenings taking in the good food and acoustic
entertainment. We hope to continue seeing you there on
Fridays as we feature an All-Meat BBQ grill for the rest of
summer.
And as the warm season draws to a close, we will mark the
end of the long summer school break on June 12, Philippine
Independence Day, with our local chefs showcasing Filipino
specialties from different regions of the country.
Dear Members,
Warm greetings to all. Great events are in store for our
members.
SUMMER EVENTS
The fun in the sun began with our “Frozen”-themed Easter
program and egg hunt, which drew the largest participation
ever from your children and their friends. The event,
presented by Ayala Land Premier, was a huge success, with
everyone bringing home lots of goodies and a few lucky
participants garnering generous prizes for finding special
Easter eggs or being judged best in their “Frozen” costumes.
Making the most of the fair summer weather, the Summer
Programs for the Club’s youth also kicked off in the first
week of April, with particular interest shown in tennis
and aquatics. Incidentally, this is the first time that infant
swimming was included as an instructional activity for
summer. From the response it has received so far, it looks
like it will be here to stay.
Summer at the Club isn’t entirely for the kids. The
membership celebrated Mother’s Day in May with most
families hearing Holy Mass at the Turf room and enjoying
the sumptuous buffet at the Sports Lounge. All the moms
present were treated to a surprise gift, and the luckiest
mother of the day, Mrs. Arline Gochoco won our grand raffle
prize: the privilege of being thoroughly pampered during a
three-day, two-night stay at The Farm in San Benito.
On the 15th of June, it’s going to be our fathers’ turn to be
feted, and festivities will shift gears as we celebrate Father’s
Day with an international buffet to be whipped up by Chef
Christian Wiedenmann specially for this occasion. Dads who
will join us for this event will be eligible to receive exciting
treats and win lucky prizes.
SPORTS AND FACILITIES
To take further advantage of the anticipated longer summer
season and our year-to-date net positive operating income
position, we initiated projects that are long overdue such as
the rehabilitation of the tennis courts, which is in full swing
as of this writing. The Ladies’ Locker sauna is also under
construction and we expect full completion by June 30. We
thank you for your patience as we strive to continuously
improve more of our facilities to achieve efficiency in our
operating departments and provide you with better services.
Finally, we are excited to bring you series 2014 of the Club
Championships, which shall be scheduled over a fourmonth period from June to September. This much-awaited
tournament kicks off with the Golf Championship at the
Sta. Elena Golf & Country Club on June 11. As was the case
last year, a series of tournaments will be held for several
categories, such as Junior and Senior levels for most sports,
and classes A, B, and C for tennis and badminton. And after
the heat of competition has died down and the winners
are declared, the Club shall once again host a cocktail as a
culminating activity to honor our new Club Champions in
September, where we hope to see not the just the winners
but their families as well.
In closing, allow me to share an observation. This being our
third issue of the Polo Post for 2014, we are now at the year’s
halfway mark. And as I look back, I cannot help but notice
that in quite a few areas – physical facilities, service levels,
financial position, food and beverage, events execution –
some headway is being made and momentum is being built
on our journey to be a better Club. But my observations
count for nothing unless these improvements find their way
into your personal Club experience. And I hope to see that
through in the second half of the year and beyond.
MARIA LEONORA A. POLICARPIO
NEWS
A
MPC rolls out Sewage Treatment Plant
and Grey Water Facilities Projects
s an organization that advocates
environmentalism, the Manila Polo Club
has to comply with the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources’ regulatory
standards. Thus, the Club is constructing a Sewage
Treatment Plant (STP) and Grey Water Facilities to
treat and recycle wastewater.
The STP is a wastewater treatment structure
that is designed to treat or recycle water so that it
can be used for other purposes such as irrigation
and fertilization. With the construction of the STP,
MPC is able to reduce the Club’s carbon footprint.
Furthermore, with the STP recycled water, the Club
can achieve significant savings in water expenditures,
with an estimated monthly amount of between
P300,000 and P400,000.
The construction of the STP facility is estimated
to be done within six months. It started last April and
is targeted to be completed by October 2014. During
the construction period, the following areas will be
Month (s)
April – May
Nature of Work
affected to give way to construction, excavation, and piping
works:
Stables A & B
Open Paddocks
Badminton Court Area
West Field
East Field
Parking 3 and 6
Golf Driving Range
Certain parts of the Cogon Village
Noise and dust pollution are the inevitable results of the
construction works. However, MPC would like to assure its
members that the Club will take all the necessary measures
to ensure that the construction will cause minimum
disruption. The Club’s security department will also work
closely with the contractor’s own security to ensure that
the safety of members will not be compromised during the
construction period.
MPC will also send out regular updates on this project
via email and Circulars to its members.
Affected Areas
Civil and construction:
Bring in the construction
equipment
Board up
Moving in of the construction
workers
Stables A & B
June
Piping
Excavation
Drilling
West Field
East Field
Parking 3
Parking 6
Open Paddocks
Golf Driving Range
Certain parts of the Cogon
Village
July
Completion of civil works
August – September
Electromechanical procedures
October
Testing and Commissioning
The new STP facility will be up
and running
Open Paddocks
Badminton Court Area
Expected Effects
The horses staying at these two stables
will be moved to another stable.
Noise and dust pollution; fences will be
put up around the area.
Noise and dust pollution; Parking risk
near this area
Minimal noise and dust pollution
5
NEWS
President’s Cup Closes the 2014 Polo Season
NEWS
C
losing another successful year of celebrating
sports and tradition, the Manila Polo Club held
the President’s Cup on March 23, 2014. If the good
turnout throughout the season is any indication, polo
continues to thrive both in the sports and social scene.
The Enrique Zobel Memorial Cup became a
convergence of spectacular goals and ultra luxe cars
led by Audi and Bentley Philippines. The FILA Cup
rolled a grand Great Gatsby celebration while the team
of His Royal Highness Prince Jefri Bolkiah showcased
indomitable polo action in the Mabuhay Cup. This year
also saw the first Paul and Shark Polo Cup co-presented
by the prestigious gastronomic company, La Chaine des
Rotisseurs. Paul and Shark is an Italian luxe brand that
debuted recently in the country.
In the President’s Cup, Polo Club members and guests
filled the East Terrace for a Marie Antoinette themed affair
presented by Ayala Land Premier. Also sponsored by
Jaguar and Maserati, the polo game opened with the low
goal match played in round robin by the Yellow, Blue and
Green teams. After six chukkers, father and son Santi Juban
and Jun Juban led the Yellow team to victory.
Formal closing ceremonies followed the first match.
MPC President Violeta Gallego-Kramer gave a short speech
before the ceremonial toss to thank and acknowledge
the teams behind the polo season as well as the general
membership for keeping the founder’s legacy alive.
In the high goal match, the father and son prowess
continued with Vince and Tommy Bitong of the Blues. They
went against the seasoned players of the Reds in a rousing
six-chukker play. In the end, the Reds clinched victory with
a final score of 4-2.
A stimulating game ending with elegant cocktails
held in one of the most beautiful venues in the city, truly a
worthwhile way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Here's to a
bigger and better 2015!
6
NEWS
Annual Horse Show 2014 Gallops to a Thundering End
NEWS
T
he Manila Polo Club culminated another successful
equestrian season with the Annual Horse Show
2014 on April 5-6 at the Enrique Zobel Field. This
year more young riders went up against the veterans
for each category of the dressage and show jumping
competitions. They expertly showcased their talent,
experience and skill level which maintained the crowd’s
excitement throughout the show.
Below are the winners of the Show Jumping
Competition held at the East Polo Field:
No.
Rider
Horse
Time
Jumping
Faults
Time
Faults
Total
Faults
Place
0.75m Class
0.90m Class
1.00m Class
Diego Virata
Elyza Reyes
Miko Tiu-Laurel
Paola Lorenzo
Christia Flores
Macarena Rocha
Danni Virata
Lillian Tang
Paola Lorenzo
Upsilon
Diablo
Kinnordy Serena
Reestgraaf
Constable
Caspian
Zwarovski
Salta de Belleme
Reestgraaf
40.39
43.39
37.12
37.27
36.36
75.22
37.27
39.77
36.77
0
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
4
1ST
2ND
1ST
2ND
3RD
4TH
1ST
2ND
3RD
1.10m Class
1.20m Class
Accumulator
Class
Andrea Montelibano
Ileanna Imperial
Diego Virata
Andrea Montelibano
Ileanna Imperial
Gabbie Gavieta
Xavier Virata
Xavier Virata
Diego Virata
Kai Yulo
BB Congo
Noria
Payett dela Sapaie
BB Congo
Noria
Aberdeen
Quatran du Lesme
Quatran du Lesme
Payett dela Sapaie
Vice Gentleman
36.01
77.33
36.6
40.36
42.1
38.87
88.43
39.16
38.42
85.35
8
0
0
0
0
4
4
0
12
16
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
8
0
0
0
0
4
4
0
12
16
POINTS
4TH
5TH
1ST
2ND
3RD
4TH
5TH
1ST
2ND
3RD
Eilidh Findlay
Rotari du Parc
53.01
280
1ST
Gabbie Gavieta
Camila Lastrilla
Macarena Rocha
Aberdeen
Maximum Ride
Caspian
51.89
56.28
104.13
80
80
80
2ND
3RD
4TH
Here are the winners of the Dressage Competition held at the Indoor Arena:
Category
PRELIMINARY
ELEMENTARY
MEDIUM
ADVANCED
1
2
1
1
2
3
4
1
2
Rider
Andrea Montelibano
Chato Cruz
Vanna Severino
Isa Pilapil
Yvette Lopez
Nina Huang
Nina Huang
Ina Ayala
Yvette Lopez
Horse
Judge C
Rank
Patricia
Bundy
Zantango
Arnie
New Amsterdam
Royal Society
Pavarotti
Saigon
Sasou
SCORE
61.55
58.45
60.14
59.63
58.38
58.13
57.88
62.16
57.7
1ST
2ND
1ST
1ST
2ND
3RD
4TH
1ST
2ND
The judges for the Show Jumping and Dressage were Marivic Cortes
and Mike Oyson, respectively.
The 2014 Annual Horse Show was presented by Ayala Land Premier.
The event was also sponsored by Ford, FILA, Hongkong Land, Two Roxas
Triangle, Marks & Spencer, BEME, Complete Animal Care, and Canon.
7
NEWS
NEWS
The Moment Of Truth:
Pacquiao-Bradley 2
T
he People’s Champ Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao
avenged a hotly disputed loss to Timothy Bradley,
Jr. in their first fight nearly two years after the two
boxing icons battled it out in the ring. The Filipino pride
won by unanimous decision in the rematch held last
April 13. He regained the WBO Welterweight title, putting
an end to Bradley’s undefeated streak.
Manila Polo Club members and guests were all excited
as they witnessed the fight during a free live telecast
sponsored by SkyCable at the Main Lounge, Willow Root,
and East Lounge. Pacquiao showed flashes of the killer
instinct his foe said he no longer
had. He closed the show after
12 rounds, regained his belt and
left zero doubt that he’s still one
of boxing’s greatest icons.
Everyone was entertained
by the fight and a round of
thundering applause rang
through the Club’s Main
Lounge as Pacman was
announced the winner.
It was indeed a moment of
truth, the vindication for our
Pambansang Kamao.
Lifeline Ambulance at MPC
M
anila Polo Club has approved the testing of a
Point of Dispatch (POD) for Lifeline Ambulance
in the Club. There will be an ambulance and a
medical emergency response team to respond to any Club
emergency in five minutes. A dedicated emergency crew
composed of two registered nurses and one EMT driver
will be on standby to provide immediate medical assistance
to members, guests, employees and management.
The ambulance is fully-equipped with defibrillators,
splints, braces, suction pump machine, patient transport
equipment, oxygen, parenteral fluids, oral/injectible
medicines, disposable supplies. Lifeline Ambulance will
also provide regular Emergency Quick Response training to
MPC employees to enhance safety awareness and make the
Club a safer environment for everyone.
8
NEWS
EVENTS
Letting All The Fun Go At The
I
t was like a scene straight from the hit Disney movie
“Frozen” – children dressed up as their favorite
characters Queen Elsa, Anna and Kristoff. The Main
Lounge entrance of the Manila Polo Club was transformed
into a castle replica, complete with ice sculptures, with the
giant ice monster, loyal pet reindeer Sven and the cute
and funny snowman Olaf guarding the entrance. Songs
from the movie, including the famous “Let It Go”,
resonated in the venue with kids singing along to the
tunes. Even the program hosts came as sisters Elsa and
Anna, much to the delight of the young audience and their
parents.
The Club’s Easter Sunday celebration last April 20
was definitely one for the books, judging by the turnout,
the many recreational activities for the children, surprises
and amazing prizes that were given away. The kids
participated in various games, including a winter relay, ice
cream eating contest, and the design your own snowman
game which was inspired by the movie. There was also a
“Frozen” mini musical play followed by a costume parade
where the Best in Frozen Costume winners were awarded.
Five-year-old Noelle Banson who dressed as Elsa was
declared the winner and went home with a PSP4.
Six-year-old Crae Sehwani came as Kristoff and won the
Xbox Kinect, while one-and-a-half-year-old Marni Wee
took home a PSP Vista for dressing up as Queen Elsa.
10
EVENTS
EVENTS
Easter Sunday Celebration
Kids had the chance to ride a pony
at the East Field. They also dabbled in
some snow globe making, cookie and
cupcake decorating activities. The
event capped off with the Easter Egg
Hunt. Four lucky kids who found the
Golden Eggs each went home happy
with their iPad Minis and iPad Air.
The Easter Sunday celebration
was presented by Ayala Land
Premier, with MetroDental as major
sponsor. Other event sponsors were
ABBOTT Laboratories Philippines,
AVI, Big E Food Corporation (Lemon
Square), Eve & Co., Federated, Food
Industries (Nagaraya), Galinco (Chips
Delight), Gymboree and BEME,
Hairwatch Salon, Happy Cart,
Hershey’s Philippines, InterPro, Kitchen’s Best,
Ms. Kris Ang, Krispy Kreme, Leslie Corporation
(Clover Chips), Liwayway Marketing Corporation
(Oishi and Choco Chug milk drink), RFM Corporation,
Saddle Brown, Sensitivity, The Generics Pharmacy,
The Parteizeit, The Tent City, VMV, Zest-O, Zuellig
Pharma, Photos by Eddie Photobooth, and 4th wall
Design Station.
11
EVENTS
EVENTS
T
he Club sure knows how to make members feel
special on Mother’s Day. Moms who availed of the
Special Lunch Buffet participated in a pick-a-prize
promo. They went home with gift packs from Federated
Distributors, Inc., gift certificates from Hairwatch Salon,
Surya Fitness & Yoga, SCO Reflex Massage Center,
product samples from The Generics Pharmacy, and roses
from Flowers by Sylvia. Photos by Ed Santos took photos
of the moms with their families and friends.
Arline Gochoco was the lucky winner of the grand
raffle draw that gave away a 3days/2nights stay for two at
The Farm At San Benito in Lipa City, Batangas.
May 11, 2014
12
EVENTS
FOOD
BANQUET
AND BEVERAGE
TURF ROOM
T
he warm and inviting ambience of the Turf Room
makes it a favorite venue for social gatherings
such as baptism, birthday parties and wedding
anniversaries. On the other hand, its simple design and
layout makes it an ideal venue for corporate clients to
hold their meetings, seminars, or seal their next big
business deal.
Originally located at the Main Lounge, the Turf Room
now enjoys its new location at the second floor of the
Centennial Lobby. This versatile room, which has multiple
doors for easy access, can accommodate around 150 guests
but when divided, each of its two sections can sit 60 guests
conveniently. Its location also offers a nice view of the
Banyan Garden.
For reservations, please call the Banquet Sales Office
at 8170951 extensions 241, 243, and 289.
Special Lunch Buffet at the Sports Lounge, Sports Cafe, Cameron Forbes
June 15, 2014
Happy Father's
Day!
14
BANQUET
Special Lunch Buffet
at the Sports Lounge,
Sports Cafe, Cameron Forbes
May Specials
Pea Soup
Quail Egg, Ham and Mint Oil
200.00
Beetroot Cured Salmon
Horseradish Crème, Apple and Cucumber, Mixed Lettuce
and Brown Toast
420.00
Coconut Panna Cotta
Three variations of Mango, Honey Comb and Meringue
225.00
Grilled Tandoori Rib Eye
Raita, Tomato Salad, Mango Chutney, Pappadam and
Biryani Rice
950.00
15
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
WELCOME TO THE CLUB
T
he Manila Polo Club welcomed a new batch of members at a cocktail induction held on March 26, 2014.
Andrew Liuson, President Betta Gallego, Jennibeth Liuson,
Benjamin Liuson
GM Lei Policarpio, Manuel Tang, Margaret Ducusin,
Hector Ducusin
Antonio Climent, Jr., Dir. Louie Campos,
Past President Fausto Preysler, Jr.
Dir. Luigi Bernas, Patricia Parekh, Dir. Mio Ozaeta
Manuel A.M. Gonzalez, Alf Holst, Andrew Siy,
Orlando Sacay
18
WELCOME TO THE CLUB
Antonio Tioco
Gautam Bose, Sandhyashree Bose
WELCOME TO THE CLUB
Leonides Juan Mariano Virata,
Malin Kristina Virata
Ma. Suzette Gatmaitan,
Carlos Gatmaitan
Carlos Ramon Aboitiz, Fabienne Kristina Aboitiz,
Juan Alejandro Aboitiz
Bandna Singh, Amandeep Singh
Ruchi Rai, Suresh Kumar Rai
Antonio Moraza
Christopher James Nelson, Catherine Nelson,
Alberto De Larrazabal, Marilu Batchelor,
David John Batchelor
Rajan Uttamchandani,
Mary Ann Tioco
John Cary Ong
Abhijit Kumta, Lea Kusumawijaya
Marcela Caro, Antonio Caro
Carlos Vargas, Jasmin Vinculado
Paula Lucetti, Matteo Salerno Uriarte
Gunjan Daswani, Haresh Daswani
19
WELCOME TO THE CLUB
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
M
MPC’s new “Kitchen CEO”
anila Polo Club recently welcomed German national
Christian Wiedenmann as the new Executive Chef. In his
role, Chef Christian will oversee the Club’s sprawling
kitchen operations. He will be involved in daily operations which
include everything from menu design, ordering of supplies,
accounting to food preparation and staffing.
Prior to joining the Club, Chef Christian worked for a resort
and spa in Maldives for three years. He moved to the Philippines in
November 2013.
20
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
When asked what inspired him
to work for the Club, Chef Christian
let out a big smile. “What’s not to like
in Manila Polo Club? Even the name
itself bears prestige. Its foundation
was formed by family values through
generations and still holds its integrity
among members & staff,” he says.
For Chef Christian, his position
is both exciting and challenging.
Working for the Club may be tough,
but it’s fun at the same time. And the
good thing about kitchen work is that
no two days are alike. Every day is a
different story.
He shares: “It’s tough in a way
because I came from a culture which
has different work ethics. It’s like
being in an army training. It’s a joy
working here because Filipinos are
always fun to work with. They are
creative and get the job done with
whatever resources they are given. If
these values are incorporated together,
the result will be beneficial to the
company. That’s what a job should be
- a balance of discipline, challenge and
fulfilment.”
With a rich experience under his
belt (he started working in the kitchen
when he was 16), Chef Christian
hopes to motivate and inspire his
team to work every day. In order to
accomplish that, every team member
should be well-trained.
“Teach them what is right if
they are wrong. Praise them when
they do something right. Teach
them discipline, organization
and cleanliness. Show them how
to communicate with others
professionally. If we have this kind of
team in the Club, who wouldn’t want
to dine here?” he ends.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
Give in to the rich, luscious taste of Venetian Chocolate Drink.
Created exclusively for Manila Polo Club by Rafle Gourmet Inc.,
this delicious cup of hot chocolate is made of quality cacao
products that are roasted to perfection.
Savor life’s simple joys at Php150.00. Available at all dining
outlets and banquet from May 1, 2014 onwards.
Have a taste of summer
and make your own Halo-halo.
Now available at the Cogon Village
for only
22
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
with
Acoustic
entertainment
All Meat BBQ Dinner
Non-Alcoholic
MADARAS
ARANCIA
A mixture of vodka,
Grand marnier &
orange juice
320.00
PINEAPPLE LIME
Pineapple juice mixed with lime & strawberry
65.00
BERRY DALANDAN
A perfect combination of sweet & sour strawberry & dalandan juice
160.00
MINTY CITRUS
A citrusy & cool sweet drink with a blend of calamansi & lemon
125.00
BERRY BANANA
Banana drink with a twist of orange & strawberry
160.00
APOSTOL
A combination of gin,
lychee, liqueur
& lime juice
220.00
GRAPES
DAIQUIRI
A mixture of
white rum,
grape juice
& lime
220.00
COGON
MANGORITA
A mixture of
lambanog,
triple sec, fresh
mango & lime
220.00
A combination
of vodka, gin,
cranberry &
orange juice
220.00
PEACH BELLINI
A combination of
vodka, peaches &
champagne
340.00
Serves 3 to 4 persons
BLUE MOON
A refreshing blend of vodka, blue curacao,
triple sec & lemon juice topped with sprite
500.00
MANGO BELLINI
A blend of fresh mango, vodka & champagne
1,100.00
WATERMELON BELLINI
A concoction of fresh watermelon, grenadine,
vodka & champagne
500.00
ORANGE AMARETTO
A refreshing blend of fresh orange,
vodka & amaretto with a splash of lemon
500.00
23
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
FROZEN
APPLE
MOJITO
A mixture of
dark rum,
apple, lime &
mint leaves
topped with
soda
220.00
SPORTS AND ATHLETICS
Optimum Wellness Center:
The One-Stop-Shop for Healthcare and Wellness
T
he Manila Polo Club has had an expansive and
active array of sports facilities that members and
their families have used for enjoyment, exercise
and competition. To complement these facilities, it has
recently established a center located at the west end of
the Badminton Courts, where everyone can go for sportsrelated wellness services.
The Optimum Wellness Center (OWC) was launched
last March and has partnered with practitioners like
Martin Camara of Intercare, Miguel del Prado, Viel
Olegario, and Donna Esteban. Services offered include
injury prevention, exercise prescription, myotherapy,
osteopathy, yoga therapy, rock taping, nutrition
consultation, chiropractic, and posture analysis. All
services are drug-free, natural and non-invasive.
Boopsie Eraña, Director for Sports and Games,
shares his thoughts: “The main idea for the OWC is to
build within the Club a low-cost platform for a wide
variety of sports-related services. The first step is to offer
services most of our members already know and avail
of. In fact, we partnered with the practitioners many
of our members already go to. But we also hope to go
further by linking these practitioners’ therapy, exercise
prescription and injury prevention programs with our
many facilities. Convenience is another factor. Services
are more accessible to those who may want the benefits
within our comfortable club environment.”
He continues: “The word optimum is key – no
matter what age and physical condition, members and
dependents can learn to maximize their abilities, enhance
one’s sense of well-being and hone their competitiveness.
In doing so, it also helps them get the most out of their
club. It’s the logical complement to the availability of
so many sports facilities. Rather than an expansion, the
OWC is envisioned to be a deepening of our services.”
For the younger segment of the club, there are also
visions of a role for the OWC.
“Our dependents and children have so much
potential to excel in sports, and the Manila Polo Club
is one of the best places to do it in. We hope the OWC
will be relevant in their development,” says Director
Eraña. “We have recently launched with Intercare a
free early scoliosis screening for kids. We also have gait
and posture analysis. There is also a search for a Sports
Psychologist to help young and developing athletes with
24
SPORTS AND ATHLETICS
techniques that include motivation, imagery and goal
setting.”
He qualifies, however, that all the services will
also depend on the demand from the membership,
as none of the practitioners are contracted directly
by the Club, but rather are provided time slots in the
center depending on members’ patronage.
He adds: “Over time, we may also provide skills
training for our service providers like first aid, or the
proper way to help someone stretch after a workout
at the gym. More importantly, we hope the OWC can
support our youth academies in all sports. We want
to give our children the chance to be their best. It’s all
about the merging of the Club’s facilities and updated
health practices by people who know what we need.
With the right ingredients, focus, and commitment,
I’m confident this can be achieved.”
The OWC Wellness Practitioners:
Martin Camara D.C. = Director of Clinics, Intercare
Anne Marieviel Olegario = Osteopathy Specialist
Dona Tumacder-Esteban = Nutrition Counseling Specialist
Miguel del Prado = Myotherapy Specialist
Visit the Optimum Wellness Center now!
Consultations are by appointment only. For rates
and other details, please call the Sports and Games
office at 817-0951 local 107.
SPORTS AND ATHLETICS
MPC Archery Tournament
T
he MPC Archery Tournament held last
May 4 was a show of precision and skills.
The participants displayed their strength,
concentration and accuracy during the tournament that
gathered families, friends and guests rooting for their
favorite archers. Sheree Gotuaco, MPC’s Chairperson
for Archery, awarded the winners.
Name:
Category
Place
1. ALON JUCUTIN
2. JEMUELLE ESPIRITU
Yeoman Beginner (10m)
Yeoman Beginner (10m)
Gold
Silver
1. FIONA MARIE SALAZAR
2. MAE ANSAMA
3. KRISTINE SALAZAR
Bowman Beginner (15m)
Bowman Beginner (15m)
Bowman Beginner (15m)
Gold
Silver
Bronze
1. JASMIN ESPIRITU
2. NIK KWOK
3. MANNUEL EDUQUE
Bowman Over all (20m)
Bowman Over all (20m)
Bowman Over all (20m)
Gold
Silver
Bronze
1. TONI TANABE
2. CAELAN SAVAL
3. DOMINIQUE CADAC
Cub Mix (30m)
Cub Mix (30m)
Cub Mix (30m)
Gold
Silver
Bronze
1. HARVEY SANTOS
2. WINSELLE ESPIRITU
3. MATHEW ANG
Cadet (40m)
Cadet (40m)
Cadet (40m)
Gold
Silver
Bronze
1. INGRID HERNANDEZ
2. ARTHUR GASTON
3. REX VILLAROSA
Compound (50m)
Compound (50m)
Compound (50m)
Gold
Silver
Bronze
Recurve (70m)
Recurve (70m)
Recurve (70m)
Gold
Silver
Bronze
1. JUN TOMACRUZ
2. GASTON ZUBIRI
3. BRIAN CHUA
The MPC Archery Tournament was co-presented
by Potato Corner.
T
Chairman’s Tennis Cup 2014
he Chairman’s Tennis Cup 2014 held last February 15-March 7 gathered the Club’s tennis players and enthusiasts in a
game that celebrated friendship and sportsmanship. The players’ families, friends and guests cheered for the winners
as they were awarded by Chairperson for Tennis Jennifer Um.
10 & Under Unisex Singles
Champion EDGARDO ANGARA
Runner-Up ALEJANDRO BARRIENTOS
Boys 12 & Under Singles
Champion DIEGO DAYRIT
Runner-Up SEBASTIEN LHUILLIER
Girls 14 & Under Singles
Champion MIA SO
Runner-Up MARIANA PO
Boys 14 & Under Singles Champion JUSTIN SUAREZ
Runner-Up ENRICO ONG
Girls 14 & Under Singles Champion MARIANA PO
Runner-Up MARIEL SO
Boys 16 & Under Singles
Champion JUSTIN SUAREZ
Runner-Up ENRICO ONG
Men’s Singles C
Champion WILLIAM TAN
Runner-Up MANU SHINGAL
Men’s Singles B
Champion CHRIS BESHOURI
Runner-Up HANS SICAT
Men’s Singles A Champion PACO SANDEJAS
Runner-Up JON-JON RUFINO
Ladies' Singles A Champion MIRJAM PAANS
Runner-Up JOJO UNSON
Ladies' Singles Open
Champion DOMINIQUE ONG
Runner-Up JOJO UNSON
Men’s Singles Open
Champion JOACHIM SAMSON
Runner-Up STEFAN SUAREZ
Boys 14 & Under Doubles
Champion ENRICO ONG
JUSTIN SUAREZ
Runner-Up MARCO AYALA
JOHANN SINGH
Men’s Doubles B Champion STEPHEN CUUNJIENG
MARK STEVENS
Runner-Up REYNALDO PACHECO
CHRIS BESHOURI
Men’s Doubles A
Champion PACO SANDEJAS
HANKY LEE
Runner-Up JON-JON RUFINO
JUNIE AMPARO
Ladies' Doubles Open
Champion JOJO UNSON
DOMINIQUE ONG
Runner-Up MARGO FLORES
STEFFI DEL ROSARIO
Men’s Doubles Open
Champion HANKY LEE
STEFAN SUAREZ
Runner-Up JULIAN DAYRIT
DIEGO DAYRIT
Mixed Doubles Open
Champion HANKY LEE
DOMINIQUE ONG
Runner-Up JOACHIM SAMSON
MARTINA BAUTISTA
25
SPORTS AND ATHLETICS
SPORTS AND ATHLETICS
Take It
From The Coach
In this new section, we will feature the Club’s coaches and instructors to give tips
and advice to members on how to improve their chosen sports.
Gary Tabernilla
Golf
C
oach Gary Tabernilla has been teaching
golf at MPC since 2007. A professional golf
player who participates in the Philippine Golf
Tournament, the 38-year-old coach currently teaches
four to six students a day. He fondly shares that his
youngest student was a two-year-old boy and the
oldest was an octogenarian member.
“This only proves that no one’s too old or too
young to learn something new and do what their heart
desires,” he says.
26
SPORTS AND ATHLETICS
Coach Gary learned how to perfect his golf swing
by taking lessons from professional golf instructors
Norman Sto. Domingo and Butch Harmon, owner of
one of the world's top golf schools in Nevada, USA.
He then put this know-how to good use when he
decided to teach golf.
The first thing he shares with his students is the
importance of working with a coach who can give
them the best foundation for a better golf swing. They
also need to make sure that they can actually work
with the coach, not just learn from him.
“Getting a golf instructor who plays the tour is
also a big help. Those coaches can share with you their
experiences and how hard you need to train,” he points
out.
What is Coach Gary’s advice to those who want to
get into the game?
“One must be coachable, open-minded, patient and
eager to learn. At any age, these are the best recipes
to progress. We coaches have a system or procedure
in building a golf swing. It’ll be boring and difficult at
first, but wait ‘til we get you to the golf course.”
He adds: “Believe me when I say it’s no walk in
the park. Playing every day and physical fitness is
your best bet. The discipline golf requires is always
associated with the word ‘often.’ The level of your
performance has a direct relation to how often you
practise.”
Coach Gary believes that golf is one hard nut to
crack, a never ending learning process. He says if one
only practises once a week, they can only become an
average golfer. “But if one works on his swings every
day, they will see their full potential,” he concludes.
POLO AND EQUESTRIAN
Butch Albert:
The Multifaceted Man
L
ife is filled with many a juxtaposition, and Butch
Albert’s life may just be the epitome of it. In this
interview with Polo Post, MPC’s most veteran
polo player gives a glimpse into his multifaceted lifestyle
as chairman of Isports Life Inc., the company behind
sports brand FILA; president of Operation Compassion
Philippines, an NGO that’s focused on rebuilding disasterstricken communities; chairman of the Club’s Stables
Committee; and his love for many sports – with polo on top
of his list.
How do you keep yourself in tip-top form?
I play tennis to keep me in shape for polo. I also play
golf, basketball, football, scuba dive, run and go to the gym.
Aside from polo, have you played competitively in these sports?
I played tennis for 40 years and competed annually for
at least 15 years at MPC and Alabang Country Club. I also
dabbled in football and competed in the International High
School League in Brussels, Belgium.
For polo, I compete every year at MPC and other polo
tournaments in the country.
Why did you choose polo?
I chose polo because it has always fascinated me. And
since FILA would sponsor tournaments annually, I figured
why not play the sports myself before it’s too late?
My biggest accomplishment in polo is starting to play
at 56 years of age when others are already quitting. And I
will continue to play longer, God willing.
How do you train for polo?
My training is pretty standard. I work out with weights
to firm up and strengthen muscles. I run 5 km. once a week,
then play tennis and practise my golf swings twice a week.
I ride horses at least once a week during polo off season
and four times a week during season. I also swim and see a
chiropractor for adjustments and stretching regularly.
What are the qualities that you believe differentiate you from
your contemporaries who have slowed down in their athletic
participation?
Never stop even if you’re in your 50s, the decline in
competitive sports is fast. Most people my age do not work
out their muscles and have decided to reduce physical
activities. 28
POLO AND EQUESTRIAN
Can you share what you do at Operation Compassion
Philippines?
Operation Compassion Philippines is a relief and
developmental non-government organization that’s
committed to establishing progressive and empowered
families and communities. We recently adopted a whole municipality in the
province of Leyte. We spearheaded together with the
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
a project that aims to adopt orphans and abandoned
children.
What’s your advice to young polo players who want to follow
in your footsteps?
They should look for good local players they can talk
to and play with. The Aguirre brothers and the Garcia
brothers are all internationally rated and play both here
and abroad.
Have the right coaches from the start. Continue
reading and listening to successful athletes, coaches,
wellness teachers and sports doctors. Listen to good
advice because they are not a dime a dozen.
What was the best advice you’ve received?
The best advice I have ever been given comes from
the Holy Bible – “You reap what you sow.” I believe
this applies in any aspect of life – physical, spiritual and
financial.
PROFESSIONALS AT WORK
Kapihan with GM
T
he very first “Kapihan with GM” was held at
the McKinley Room last May 7. The affair was
attended by the Club’s General Manager,
Lei Policarpio, and served as an opportunity for the
GM to get to know the manager, supervisors and staff
in a very light, informal setup.
Those who attended the affair were some of the
January–March 2014 birthday celebrators:
JANUARY 1. Gilfred Sale, Sports Coordinator
2. Artemio Quiros, Jr., Asset Management Specialist
3. Rhodora Astilla, Compensation & Benefits Officer
4. Adrian Vicencio, IT Specialist
5. Samson Garlet, Leadman-Groom/Trainer
6. Romelito Reyes, Leadman-Electrical Section
FEBRUARY
1. Reuben Tinio, Polo & Equestrian Manager
2. Aires Reoganis, Cashiering Services Supervisor
3. Ann Valerie Antonio, Internal Auditor
4. Criselda Candolesas, Executive Housekeeping
5. Jose Carlos Castañeda, Sports Development Manager
MARCH
1. Frederick Baez, Water Station Attendant
2. Celso Perodes, Electrician
3. Benito Taylo, Sports Supervisor
The next coffee date with the GM will be held in July
for the April–June birthday celebrators.
2014 Asian
Powerlifting Championships
Gold Medalist of the 74 KG
Division for squat, bench
press and deadlift category.
30
PROFESSIONALS AT WORK