"I am a fan." These were the words of our Vice President of Operations (Northern Luzon) Mike de la Pena in his opening speech on Sunday. He explained later that Tribune (Sitel) got a nod from the clients for getting a 10 (the highest) in a Pulse Survey for satisfactory service, if I am not mistaken. Tribune is now in its 5th year of operations in Sitel Baguio 3 since 2009, and the clients are saying that there's no need to look elsewhere. A great feat considering the stiff competition, not only in the Philippines, but around the world for contact centers. The tent also went wild with the inspiring words of our DOO Mike Batac. He just joined the site 3 operations as our Director this year, but he has served as a silent motivator for us all, especially in Tribune. We hope to see him more in action. Hell yeah!
The night started out with a bang with an explosive dance number from the LPP dancers, correct me if I'm wrong. It was followed by the opening remarks of our VP and DOO. All the managers and coaches and supports in Tribune and Sitel 3 were in attendance. The highlight of the evening is the production number from each property, of which a cash prize awaits the winning team. The CAG or Customer Advocacy Group (of which I belong) is the defending champion. It was the loudest cheer you could ever imagine after every presentation. We didn't get to defend our title, falling short of a few points from the victor, but it was a worthwhile fight nonetheless. LA (Los Angeles Times) bagged this years' title, CAG's coming in second, and Chicago Tribune came in third.
It was also a night of recognition for the people who set standards for excellence. The quality and save superstars got certificates and cash perks. Loyalty awards were also given to employees who are now five years with Tribune and counting. One of the reasons for the big turn out in attendance is the raffle draw. Power banks, Torque phone, tablets, camera, refrigerator, and an entertainment showcase (TV, DVD player and speakers) were up for grabs for the lucky ones. Every announcement was waited with bated breath, myself included. I so wanted the camera, but it was not my lucky night. Congratulations to the winners!
DeJaVu Band came back to join us this year. They were with us in Tribune's first annual party #Xiexie last year. We got to enjoy their kind of music once more. One of the LA peeps performer joined the band for a little bit of jamming. Photo booths were everywhere and so everyone got to pose for some precious memoirs. We were all in our gowns and glittering cocktail dresses and tuxes and ternos worthy for the red carpet. Advocates (CAG) stood out in the crowd and bagged the Best-dressed Male and Female of the Night. Congratulations Henry and Roella.
The music and the DJ were amazing, but not all of us got to dance the night away. Most called it a night earlier than expected. I guess every one's tired. Some just came off their shift from the previous night and others had shift in a few hours. But all in all, it was an amazing Tribune party. Bryan and Ann were wonderful Masters of Ceremonies. Great job! Thank you for the dedicated efforts of the managers, OM Gus, OM Don, OM Shan, and others I may not know behind this 'give-back time' for the Tribune team. See you again next year. "Arrivederci al prossimo anno."
