By Jerrica Bungcayao
Name: Gerry Manuel
Department: Hotel Industry Relations
Birthday: September 16
What does a typical day look like in your role?
A typical day for me is basically a lot of coordinating and keeping everyone in the loop. I’m usually talking with hotel partners, checking in with clients, and working with my onPeak team to make sure all the moving pieces of our housing plans stay on track. I’m reviewing room blocks, confirming details, answering questions, and jumping in wherever something needs attention. Every day has its own little surprises, but the overall goal is the same: keep things organized, keep communication clear, and make sure our partners and clients feel taken care of.
What is one lesson you’ve learned in your career that you still apply today?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that relationships matter; more than anything. I’ve always been the kind of person who stays in touch, even as roles change or people move on. Working in hospitality taught me early on that you never know when your paths will cross again, and those genuine connections have a way of coming back around in the best ways. I love staying connected, checking in, and keeping those relationships alive because they’ve shaped my career just as much as any skill or strategy.
What has your role taught you about the balance between strategy and relationship-building?
This role has taught me how important it is to balance the big picture planning with the day‑to‑day human side of the work. You can map out a great strategy, but it only works if you stay flexible, communicate well, and adjust as things evolve. Working with hotels, clients, and my team has shown me how to think ahead while also staying grounded in real conversations and real needs. It’s that mix of planning and people skills that keeps everything moving smoothly.
If you could spend a day doing anything you enjoy, what would it look like?
If I had a day to do anything I enjoy, it would be a mix of cozy and social which is very on‑brand for my extroverted‑introvert personality. I love having some quiet time to recharge, but I’m just as happy ending the day surrounded by friends… whether that’s dinner, a game night, or anything that brings everyone together. It’s that balance of calm and connection that makes me feel my best.
What’s a place you’ve visited that left a lasting impression on you?
Paris always feels a little magical every time I go. The history, the architecture, the energy… it all hits you at once. What I love most is that no matter how many times I visit, I always find something new; a neighborhood I haven’t wandered through yet, a café that becomes a new favorite, or a little corner of the city that makes me stop and take it in. It’s one of those places I’m always excited to return to because it never stops surprising me.
