Amidst the bustling streets of Cebu City, Diamond Suites and Residences (DSR) has gained popularity among business travelers for its central location in the thriving business district of the city, known as the country's second metropolis. This three-star hotel is highly regarded not just for its convenient location but also for its exceptional service and reasonably priced, comfortable rooms. Additionally, DSR offers a boardroom and multipurpose hall suitable for corporate meetings, family gatherings, and celebrations. Boasting 102 guest rooms, 27 condominium units, an all-day dining restaurant, a mini gym, and a rooftop pool with a bar, the property is well-equipped to accommodate the needs of its guests while maintaining its operations smoothly.

Diamond Suites & Residences reception and lobby lounge

GOING GREEN

With the leadership of General Manager Katherine Angala, the condotel has been adapting to the times when it comes to environmental sustainability. “My kids are really into sustainability and environmental awareness. I learn from them. They’re the ones who triggered something in me to be more stringent when it comes to being more eco-conscious in line with our day-to-day practices,” Angala shared. It’s true, generations have differing views on environmental sustainability given that the respective era they were born in had contrasting issues and challenges, but it doesn’t mean we can’t find common ground.

AppleOne Properties, Inc.'s (DSR’s mother company) Director for Sales & Marketing, Angela Emphasis, also added, “It was really the local government of Cebu that started implementing these sustainability rules and regulations. Hotels were just not as aware today as they were before. Even the big names in Mactan had been reprimanded years back when it came to sewage and coastal cleanliness, that’s why hotels are much more careful and rigid now. To be fair, our local government helps us out and guides us as we submit to these regulations.”

FROM TENSION TO IMPLEMENTATION

Of course, just like everywhere else, there was quite a bit of tension with the introduction of these new rules. Change is never easy nor comfortable, especially when establishments already have set their operational systems in place. However, looking beyond the mandate, there are benefits to be reaped when a corporation adopts eco-friendly practices. 'In the long run, it's actually much more economical. When you become intentional with the little things, you also save on costs,' shared Angala.

Rooftop pool with city views

PRACTICAL SUSTAINABILITY

As they gradually embrace greener practices, Diamond Suites and Residences demonstrates its commitment through practical and sustainable actions. One of the most basic steps is reducing paper waste by digitizing important information. We already have the power of technology in our pockets, and utilizing it for the planet's benefit, such as through email announcements and online alignments, is a smart approach.

Even the lobby furniture is upcycled. 'Our tables and chairs have been with us for 13 years. They are sturdy, locally-made, quality furniture that doesn't need to be replaced. We simply changed the table tops and reupholstered the seat cushions,' shared Angala. With these modifications, these items look well-kept and brand new, showcasing the transformative power of a few adjustments.

In the engineering department, the hotel utilizes energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures throughout the premises, significantly reducing electricity consumption. They also recycle the circuit boards in their building and repair only the parts that need fixing, rather than replacing the entire units. To minimize electrical consumption and dishwashing chemicals, solar heaters have been installed in the kitchen to regulate water temperature, as hot water effectively rinses off grease. Moreover, the building is equipped with automatic timers and energy-saving devices, maximizing energy efficiency without compromising guest comfort, and they ensure that appliances are turned off when not in use.

GREEN-MINDED OPERATIONS

From the kitchen to housekeeping, DSR also had to be strategic. They had to be eco-conscious, without compromising their guests’ overall experience. For food and beverage, Noven Aurelio, Food and Beverage Manager weighed in, “We’ve lessened serving individual sachet condiments for coffee and just offer it in our guest rooms for their consumption. But for breakfast buffets, we use ceramic and glass containers. We’ve also transitioned to biodegradable kraft boxes when it comes to food takeaways, and we only serve water when guests specifically request, and we only pour half glass. We noticed a lot of drinking water wastage whenever we served water automatically. These small actions make a big difference when they add up.'

Delicious dishes & drinks at Diamond Suites & Residences

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For the kitchen, they’ve been creative when it comes to maximizing their ingredients to minimize food waste. “Most of our peelings from fruits and veggies are used for sauces, marination, and brining,” Executive Chef, John Flores, shared. He has also perfected food purchasing to accurately predict portions and servings, ensuring they have exact amounts to serve, especially for banquets. To prevent food wastage, they have a flexible menu for breakfast buffets, utilizing items from their inventory each time they replenish a dish. Leftovers are repacked and distributed to their maintenance staff as complimentary meals. Inevitable food waste is collected by third-party collectors who own piggeries, and used oil is sold for recycling. Although the kitchen is one of their busiest areas, they make a point to turn off lights and exhaust fans during non-peak hours.

When it comes to the rooms, DSR prioritizes the comfort of their guests while remaining committed to environmental sustainability. Jocelyn Go, the Operations Manager, shared, 'We have installed shampoo and bath gel dispensers in guest rooms instead of using single-use sachet products to minimize plastic usage. We have also replaced plastic bottles with glass bottles for drinking water. The only item in our toiletries packaged in plastic tubes is our lotion, allowing us to control the amount guests use, and they can take it with them upon checkout, along with the toothpaste in our dental kit.'

Guest room details

DSR believes in the power of education and guest engagement to drive positive change. The condotel provides informative materials in guest rooms, outlining its sustainability practices and inviting guests to actively participate in eco-friendly initiatives. With optional towel and linen reuse programs and room make-up, the hotel empowers guests to make conscious choices that contribute to a greener future. 'We inform our long-staying guests that we do refresh the rooms, but to completely sanitize it is upon request. This way, we also save on cleaning products,' quipped Go.

Signage cards for guest engagement

DSR also actively participate in waste separation and recycling initiatives. By promoting the use of biodegradable and eco-friendly materials, minimizing single-use plastics, and collaborating with local recycling facilities, the condotel strives to reduce its environmental footprint and promote sustainable waste practices.

Diamond Suites and Residences sets an example of sustainable hospitality, entwining urban living with environmental responsibility. Through its eco-friendly practices, energy-efficient operations, water conservation efforts, waste management initiatives, support for local sourcing, and guest engagement, the condotel redefines what it means to be an environmentally conscious accommodations.

As guests enjoy the convenience and comfort offered by Diamond Suites and Residences, they can take comfort in knowing that their stay contributes to a more sustainable future. Though they still desire for more stringent practices , they are well on their way towards greener tourism. This proves that even a humble 3-star hotel can participate in green initiatives, with mindful and intentional changes that accumulate and create a lasting impact.

For bookings and information, visit their website.

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