I woke up very early, packed my bag headed to Quezon City and joined the group of bloggers and media for our ride going to the grand opening of the Green Canyon Resort last October 10, 2014. It was a one and a half ride from QC to Pampanga. Green Canyon Resort is a 29-hectare property located at the heart of Sacobia Valley. I was overwhelmed at what greeted me, the countryside is beaming with verdant green trees, mountains and a relaxing fresh air. Just what I needed from the hustle and bustle in the city.
Well-renowned for its eco-art concept of a recreational destination, Green Canyon Resort celebrated its grand opening with a series of exciting activities. The premier vacation spot in the North gave us an ultimate experience of what kind of understated service, high quality, and culinary delights that the holiday sanctuary has to offer.
Enthusiastically hosted by TV personality, movie actress, model, and ANC’s Philippine Realty host Angel Jacob, the event successfully began the event with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the start of the day that was filled with charming auras from the attendees and sunny vibe from the nature-friendly atmosphere of the resort.
As a warm welcome, the Director General and Chairman of Philippine Economic Zone Authority, Lilia B. De Lima, provided an energized dose of inspiration to the guests with her keynote speech. It was an honor and privilege to have De Lima in the affair, who is a multi-awarded public official, one of the pillars and creators of the country’s economic zone development, and has the prestige of having a flower named after her by University of the Philippines Los Baños, ‘Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.’
Together with De Lima, art enthusiasts in their respective fields also graced the occasion to take part in Green Canyon Resort’s formal launch, which included famed musician and violinist John Lesaca, Sri Lankan photographer Tilak Hettige, Altro Mondo Arte Contemporanea Gallery owner Remigio David, and Green Canyon Resort resident artist Niccolo Jose. We were also treated to a free visit to Green Canyon’s Hotel Lodge and Art Gallery that features the brilliant creations of pyrography art and wood sculptures of the young and talented artist Niccolo Jose.
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| Niccolo Jose |
As the day had hit the sunny rays of mid-afternoon after the sumptuous Kapampangan dishes and delicacies were served for lunch at the resort’s Events Pavilion, Green Canyon Resort Manager Abel Jose spearheaded a fun-filled line-up of outdoor activities that heightened the energy of the crowd.
We took hold of the activity map that contained the mechanics and list of leisure activities that we will choose to do for the rest of the afternoon before the dinner event. The activities ranged from a photography class with photographer Caloy Creencia to a culinary session with the resort’s resident chef, an art workshop with Niccolo Jose that highlighted pyrography demonstration, painting, and live woodwork, swimming time in Symphony pool or Waves pool, 30-minute biking, and an EarlyBerd hunt that allowed guests to have fun searching for Niccolo Jose’s wooden miniature bird creation, which entitles its holder to lavish discounts and exclusive promos. We chose the painting session, it was fun doodling and put colors on on what we called our art piece. It was indeed a very fun afternoon.
I got three Berds which entitled me to a lot of discounts the moment I come back and visit the paradise again.
As a unique way to cap off the merriment with an unforgettable night, Green Canyon Resort gathered all its guests to a bountiful dinner that once again showcased farm-to-table food selections inspired from the Kapampangan cuisine. Besides the delicious dishes, the special number of musician John Lesaca added joy to the hearts of many with the soulful beats and notes that he played in the event. Lots of prizes were also given. Photography class teacher Creencia acknowledged winners of the best photo entries, while the resort’s Manager Abel Jose gladly handed the wooden birds to the ones who participated in the EarlyBerd hunt. Before the night ended, Mulatto Band, one of the most sought-after groups in the entertainment circuit, serenaded the guests with its 70s music fever and other contemporary melodies.
Indeed, with the great combination of art and nature, which is all spruced up with a haven of lush greeneries, excellent accommodation, quality amenities, and warm service, Green Canyon remains to be one of the country’s must-visit travel destinations that’s perfect for every adventurous heart and wanderlust spirit.
Green Canyon is located at San Vicente Road, Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. For more information, visit www.greencanyon.com.ph.
