Royal Lahaina Resort’s Sablas Honored With Poʻokela Legacy Award

The Maui Hotel & Lodging Association honored Gilbert “Uncle Bobo” Sablas, guest services manager at Royal Lahaina Resort, with the inaugural Po’okela Legacy Award at its annual membership meeting.

The Maui Hotel & Lodging Association honored Gilbert “Uncle Bobo” Sablas, guest services manager at Royal Lahaina Resort, with the inaugural Poʻokela Legacy Award.

The award was issued during its annual membership meeting, and honors a professional who exemplifies visionary leadership and has made lasting contributions to Maui’s hospitality and visitor industry.

“Over the past 48 years, Uncle Bobo touched thousands of lives and has nurtured relationships with our guests into lifelong friendships,” said Tom Bell, president of Hawaiian Hotels and Resorts, the hotel management group for Royal Lahaina Resort.

“He is revered at our resort, beloved throughout Maui, and we congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition,” said Bell.

Hotel executives say Sablas’ dedication can also be seen in his tireless community involvement.

He actively participates in the Aloha Week Festival and King Kamehameha Day celebrations, and he volunteers countless hours to the Keiki Nā Mele O Maui song competition and the March of Dimes. He also contributes to the Visitor Industry Charity Walk each year.

Bell added, “Uncle Bobo exemplifies the true aloha spirit and strives to live his life in a manner consistent with his favorite saying, ‘always give, don’t expect and you will certainly receive a life of happiness and fond memories.’”