Kandaya Resort marks a significant milestone with its prestigious recognition as the first-ever 5-star Cebuano resort. Awarded by the Department of Tourism (DOT), the honor raises the bar for Cebu’s hospitality landscape and establishes Kandaya as a leader in the Visayas region’s luxury tourism market.
By aligning luxury with advocacy, Kandaya set a precedent for how Philippine resorts can contribute to global conversations on heritage conservation and environmental sustainability.
The recent 5-star accolade came at an ideal time, coinciding with Kandaya’s role as thel host of Miss Earth 2024’s Cebu activities, held from October 24 to 26, 2024.
The timing of this recognition also adds momentum to the resort’s bid to become a top-tier international tourist destination. The achievement underscores the potential of Cebuano resorts to compete on a global scale, fostering more interest from high-end travelers and tourists worldwide.
Miss Earth 2024’s Cebu Tour: Heritage and Environment in the Spotlight
Kandaya embodied the pageant’s theme of heritage preservation and environmental responsibility. The resort’s cultural immersion itinerary included the Heritage Motorcade in partnership with the LGU of Daanbantayan—a tour of historical landmarks such as the Sta. Rosa de Lima Church and other cultural gems. Candidates also visited the Daanbantayan Municipal Hall for a formal courtesy call.
A tree-planting activity led by Miss Earth contestants underscored the pageant’s commitment to conservation, seamlessly aligning with Kandaya’s core values.
Bezza Wear: Relaxed Sophistication on Kandaya’s Shores
Kandaya’s beachfront setting was the perfect backdrop for the grand welcome dinner, where the venue was adorned with lush tropical foliage, echoing the pageant’s environmental advocacy. The event culminated in the announcement of “Miss Kandaya 2024,” awarded to Miss Wales.
The following evening, Miss Earth 2024 candidates modeled in a runway show featuring Bezza Wear—designer Claudia Bezza-Yeung‘s bohemian resort fashion collection. The beachfront fashion show highlighted Cebuano craftsmanship and reinforced the theme of sustainable fashion.
Heritage Meets Modern Luxury
Kandaya’s collaboration with Miss Earth 2024 symbolized a new era of sustainable luxury tourism in Cebu. During the fashion event, Kandaya and MSY World CEO Martin Philip S. Yeung delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the MSY organization’s corporate values of perseverance and hope.
He underscored the importance of heritage preservation and environmental stewardship, aligning them with the theme of Miss Earth 2024. His message highlighted how Kandaya’s 5-star status is not just about luxury, but also about community involvement and responsible tourism.
A Landmark Moment for Cebu’s Tourism
The successful hosting of Miss Earth 2024’s Cebu tour, coupled with Kandaya’s 5-star recognition, represented a landmark moment for the region’s tourism industry. By aligning luxury with advocacy, Kandaya set a precedent for how Philippine resorts can contribute to global conversations on heritage conservation and environmental sustainability.
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