“APONG MIKE”

Miguel L. Santos, a native of Guagua, Pampanga, attracted by the business opportunities brought by the trade in the then American Base in Olongapo. Through hard work and determination, he was able to achieve success in his business ventures.

. . . His heart was filled with desire to serve people and his kababayans and pushed him into the arena of politics. . .

. . . He was a servant not a politician. . .

. . . He found himself with wealth that was what really mattered to him: the love and support of his constituents who all remember “Apong Mike’s” generosity and selflessness.

“A DREAM TURNED TO REALITY”

A son fulfilling a father’s dream. This is what best describe the birth of Anne Raquel’s Hillside Resort.

One of the properties of Apong Mike has taken for granted because of his service to the people was a resort. Located along the highway and people would remember that it used to be a beautiful place where Apong Mike entertained his guests and friends.

After Apong Mike’s death, his eldest son, Eduardo, wanted to resurrect Apong Mike’s spirit of joy, happiness, and togetherness. He now dedicates himself to the rehabilitation and rebuilding of the resort so when the Olongapenos see it, they would feel a sense of pride and joy.

In the summer of 1989, Anne Raquel’s Hillside Resort formally reopened its door once again. Fittingly, the grand opening was announced in the Manila Bulletin with a picture of Apong Mike & a written caption saying “A DREAM TURN TO REALITY”. Since then, it has been the seat of various seminars, outings, & gatherings, not only of the people from Olongapo but Filipinos from all over the country.

“RISE FROM THE ASHES”

In 1991, a dormant volcano named Mt. Pinatubo erupted, spitting out dust and fumes that left nearby towns under lahar and ash fall. Anne Raquel’s Hillside Resort was one of the victims. The ash fall buried the then 2-year old resort in 50 feet of ash and dust. With determination and hard work, the employees and management of the resort worked together to rehabilitate the resort. After month of intense labor and hard work, they have succeeded! This time, as the resort opened, its slogan was, “RISE FROM THE ASHES” which was in parallel to the City’s drive to overcome the difficulties that the unexpected eruption has caused.

For almost 20 years, the resort prides itself with having the only resort which provides a truly personalized, Filipino, and customer-oriented service.