The sprawling casino resort has dumped plans to set a new Guinness world record on New Year’s Eve following complaints by green groups
Okada Manila has canceled plans to drop tens of thousands of balloons to celebrate the New Year, following criticism from green groups and a government department.
The glitzy hotel and casino resort located in the heart of the Philippine capital planned to set a new world record by dropping 120,000 balloons at its Cove Manila nightclub on New Year’s Eve. In a statement on Sunday, Okada Manila revealed that it has decided to call off the stunt and that its decision was prompted out of respect for environmental groups that have warned against the world record attempt.
The resort went on to explain that it also wanted to show support for the Philippine government’s campaign to save the environment. The property had initially maintained that the balloons it had planned to use had been biodegradable and that they would be recycled afterwards.
The stunt was dropped from Okada Manila’s New Year’s celebration schedule after a number of environmental groups voiced criticism and concerns about the event’s environmental impact. The Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) joined environmentalists over the weekend, issuing a statement in which it pointed out that the balloon drop would generate tons of waste.
However, the government agency stressed on the fact that it did not have the authority to stop the event. In a statement from earlier today, DENR Chief Roy Cimatu lauded Okada Manila’s change of mind. The official also revealed that other resorts around the country have, too, dropped balloon release plans for New Year’s Eve.
How Will Okada Manila Welcome 2019?
Okada Manila informed its guests that minus the balloons drop, all its events for New Year’s Eve would proceed as planned. OPM Legends are set to perform live at the Grand Ballroom. The event is hosted by Janeena Chan and Nikko Ramos and features Okada Manila Entertainment Group, Hazel Faith, and Manila Sound Project.
There are also hourly fountain shows starting at 6 pm local time, live music at the Crystal Corridor, and The Fountain Fireworks Display to celebrate the arrival of 2019.
Cove Manila will host a New Year’s Eve countdown party featuring Pete Tong, Okada Manila Entertainment Group, and DJ performances. The party at the popular club will continue into the wee hours of January 1.
At The Coral Lounge, guests and visitors will be treated to finely crafted cocktails and live entertainment featuring Blast and Zcentido. The lounge will remain open until 2 am.
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