Quest Plus Clark’s 8th Year: A Night to Remember

The 8th anniversary of Quest Plus Hotel and Conference Clark was a night of elegance and prestige, celebrated in the idyllic and spacious setting of the Hilltop, Mimosa Golf Course. This grand event held last August 8, 2024, attended by top stakeholders from the government, MICE, and tourism industries, was a testament to the hotel’s commitment to excellence in hospitality and its pivotal role in Central Luzon’s tourism landscape.

Honoring the Pillars of Success

*Ms. Joyce Manansala, HR Admin Legal Manager of SIAEP received the award*

The highlight of the evening was the awarding ceremony, where Quest Plus Hotel and Conference Clark recognized its most valuable stakeholders. These individuals and organizations have played significant roles in the hotel’s success, from government officials who have supported its endeavors such as the Bases Conversion Development Authority, Clark Development Corporation, and Clark International Airport Corporation, to MICE organizers who have consistently chosen the hotel as their preferred venue, private companies such as SIA Engineering Philippines, and tourism industry leaders who have helped position Clark as a premier destination.

As each award was presented, it became clear that the success of Quest Plus Hotel Clark is deeply intertwined with the community it serves. The recipients, representing the best in their fields, shared their gratitude and commitment to continue fostering growth in the region.

A Culinary Journey Through Kapampangan Heritage

The evening was not only a celebration of achievements but also a culinary journey that showcased the rich flavors of Kapampangan cuisine. The fine dining experience began with a bowl of Sinigang with Tiger Prawns, a dish that perfectly balanced the sourness of the broth with the sweetness and plump texture of the prawns, creating a comforting start to the meal.

The Pako Salad with Crispy Crablets and Ripe/Green Mango Ensalada was a refreshing follow-up, with the vibrant flavors of the salad beautifully complemented by the crispy crablets and the sweet-tart notes of the mangoes. This dish was a tribute to the region’s abundant produce and a testament to the chef’s ability to elevate traditional ingredients.

For the main course, the menu featured a medley of Kapampangan classics with a modern twist. The Braised Beef Kare Kare was rich and hearty, with tender beef that melted in the mouth, paired with a creamy peanut sauce that was just the right consistency but on the sweeter side of things. The Smoked Sisig offered a smoky, savory kick and the familiar aroma that spelled home, while the Stir-Fried Prawns in Taba ng Talangka brought a burst of umami and flavor with every bite. The Kapampangan Biringhe with Spanish Chorizo and Garlic Sausage was a standout, actually my main carb source of the night, its flavors blending harmoniously with the Guinataang Laing, which added a hint of spice and savory creaminess to the plate. The dried dilis added punch of layer and texture that called me back to my Bicol hometown.

Dessert was a tropical delight, with the Pina Colada Coconut Mousse offering a light and airy sweetness, paired with the tartness of the Passion Cremeux and the caramelized richness of the Confit Pineapple. The native Tablea Sauce added a touch of bittersweet chocolate, rounding off the meal with a satisfying finish. The dessert was the deal breaker of the night thanks to the balanced tangy, fruity and sweet endings that cleansed my palate from the bold flavors served.

Rebuilding Connections

Michael Gapin, General Manager of Quest Plus Clark

Beyond the awards and the exquisite cuisine, the evening was also an opportunity to network with some of the most influential figures in the tourism industry and the Clark business community. Conversations flowed as freely as the wine, with familiar faces I love to see, sharing insights, discussing trends, and forging new ideas.

Meeting these stakeholders was not just a professional engagement but a chance to connect (and reconnect) with individuals who share a passion for promoting the beauty and potential of Clark and the broader region and whom I looked up to.

A Night to Remember, ALWAYS

*Proudly sporting Mindanao: Backpack from Maguindano del Sur, Gamis from Sulu and Yakan Bracelet from Basilan*

Quest Plus Hotel and Conference Clark’s 8th anniversary was more than just a celebration— I can say it was a reaffirmation of its role as one of the formidable leaders in the hospitality industry in Clark and in Pampanga. From honoring its partners to offering a gastronomic feast that paid homage to Kapampangan heritage, the event encapsulated the essence of what makes Quest Plus a cornerstone of excellence in Clark. As the evening drew to a close, it was evident that the bonds formed and strengthened that night would pave the way for even greater achievements in the years to come.