As someone actively involved in covering many events and based here in Palawan, I am frequently asked for recommendations for the best event hosts in Puerto Princesa City and the province of Palawan. In response, I’ve compiled a list of 15 emcees or event hosts on our island, based on recommendations from my network, most of whom are involved in organizing events in our “World’s Best Island.”
TITA KIM – She ranked first in our random survey. A former DJ, singing champion, and one of Palawan’s top influencers, Tita Kim has mastered program flow. She also manages her own event production house. From corporate events to weddings and even pageants, Tita Kim dominates it all, making her one of the most in-demand hosts for shows and events in Palawan.
JONA PICARDAL – Another A-list royalty in terms of hosting is Ms. Jona Picardal. A former English teacher, she gained popularity hosting weddings, birthdays, and other occasional events. Many of our survey respondents see her as exceptionally calm and skilled at managing program flow for various events. She used to be part of I-Host Palawan, a talent pool that supplies masters of ceremony for many events.
JOSH BASTE – Making it to our Top 3 most recommended hosts is Josh Baste. He was trained as a promo and marketing events host at one of the malls here in Palawan. He has specialized in weddings, product launches, and even ribbon-cutting events, handling them exceptionally well. Plus, he always dresses appropriately for the occasion. His added advantage is being a true blue Cuyonon who speaks our native dialect fluently, making him a favorite among locals.
THOREEN HALVORSEN – Possessing a strong presence and confidence in public speaking, Thoreen, a Miss Earth Philippines alumna, has carved out a name for herself in managing shows on stage. As a former beauty queen, she understands pageant flow intimately and can manage crucial moments when the spotlight is on her. She also frequently hosts corporate events and formal gatherings.
FRANZ MACHADO – A City Hall employee and a dancer, Franz is known for hosting many City Government events, from inaugural ceremonies to Christmas Tree Lighting. Franz made it to our Top 5 as one of the most vocally dynamic hosts in Palawan, not to mention his complementary “plus size.” He also emcees mall shows and private events.
VILLA SABANAL – She’s the “it girl” of hosting on many Palawan stages. With a “masa Queen” (popular/mass appeal) style, Ms. Sabanal made it in our top list for being recommended as jolly and capable of handling games or programs that require audience participation. Research indicates she used to be a birthday party organizer at a fast-food chain, which is where her roots in engaging on stage began, making any show or event memorable.
JESSICA RULE is a seasoned hotelier and event host in Palawan. She’s known for her work with major hotel brands like Amanpulo, Dos Palmas, and Princesa Garden, Jessica often hosts corporate events and planning weddings.
JB JUANICH – A local broadcaster, JB is on the list of the new breed of hosts in Palawan. A charming person, JB can handle tensions and errors in program flow as he is a communication major. He understands the heart of a show with minimal instruction. He is mostly seen at local pageants and corporate events.
GRACE BELOSTRINO – The pride of the Capitol, Grace started her career as a local radio reporter before hosting big events for the province. Her style of being informative, mixed with random witty remarks, paves the way for memorable yet insightful hosting experiences. She is mostly seen at “Men in Uniform” ceremonial events and festival celebrations.
ARCHIE BARONE AND LIEZYL AVINON – This real-life loving tandem hosts wedding receptions in Palawan. Archie and Lyzl use their experience as radio anchors to liven things up while hosting. They look lovely together on stage, and their chemistry is palpable as they compliment each other while performing.
TOOTSIE GIVANA – Considered an “OG” (Original Gangster) in mastering ceremonies on our island, Tootsie’s portfolio has a lot to offer. From a showbiz radio anchor to a makeup artist, stand-up comedian, movie actor, and even a band soloist, he has all that under his belt. Yet, he still manages to shine with his unique brand of humor as a wedding and party host.
BIMBO PAPA – Energy at its peak, Bimbo is regarded as one of the most knowledgeable individuals in terms of hosting an event in Palawan. With a background in production management, he knows how to deliver a stage performance with his microphone on. Even when he’s not on stage, his powerful voice echoes as a voice-over announcer.
RUTH RODRIGUEZ – Another “OG” in event hosting in Palawan, a former showbiz anchor turned news correspondent, Ruth is regarded as a talented host you can hire for serious events. From public debate forums to press conferences, pageants and shows and even birthday parties, Ruth can handle it all with an authoritative tone if needed even without script at all.
CYRUS CLARIDAD is known for his diverse talents and contributions. He is an alumnus of the Sining ng Palawan Dance Company, highlighting his background in performance arts. Currently, Cyrus works for the Provincial Information Office of Palawan. In this role, he frequently serves as a host for numerous government events. His hosting experience spans a wide range, from formal dinner functions to dance contests and even festival openings, demonstrating his versatility and mastery of various program formats. Cyrus is also an experienced TV host, possessing the ability to effectively detail any topic on camera, which further elevates his expertise in public communication.
JULIUS CATERIAL is a well-known talent locally, primarily recognized as a singing host and the lead vocalist of a provincial band. Julius popularity stems from his clear voice and good looks, which make him a favored choice for a wide array of events. He’s often seen performing at diverse occasions, including weddings, street dancing competitions, and singing contests, among others.
DISCLAIMER : This listing is based on a survey I conducted with random friends in the event industry in Palawan, along with my personal experiences working with these proud Palaweño talents in hosting any events.
