Dia de la Hispanidad 2006

The grand celebration of the Dia de la Hispanidad at the Casino Español de Cebu by the Filipino-Spanish community is always one of the most anticipated social events. And certainly this year's affair was no exception.

The evening began with the unveiling of a mural painting of historical scenes of Barcelona, Spain at the courtyard by national artist Rene Robles. Guests of Honor were Honorary Spanish Consul Jaime Picornell and art enthusiast Susan Sala. Cocktails were served while guests studied, admired and appreciated the fine work of art before proceeding to the grand ballroom of Casino Español: Salon de España.

At the reception, the hard working board of directors, led by its President Cheling Sala, Vice President Gabriel Leyson, Secretary Jimmy Escaño, Treasurer Manuel Sainz, House Chairman Rico Gandionco, and Director for Social and Cultural affairs Antonio Veloso Jr., stood tall in dark tailored suits as they warmly welcomed members and their guests to the formal cena y baile.

Adhering to the dress code, the gentlemen came in either black tie or formal barong Tagalog, while the ladies were resplendent in cocktail dresses and evening gowns. Making an understated statement in their striking red attires were architect Tessie Javier, dance enthusiast Jane Llaban, civic worker Alice Lim and bubbly Maricris Gandionco. In classic black were Gigi Alvarez, Marilen Jarque, Chichi Martinez and Pritchit Borromeo.

Equally distinguished were such gentlemen as the House Deputy Speaker Raul del Mar, Antonio Lozada, Anton Quisumbing, Emil Lamata, Joey Villareal, Bingen Mendezona, Luis Moro, Ed Dakay and Brian Head.

Everyone feasted on the House Specialties. For starters, they had ensalada casera, jamon serrano, assorted open-faced tea sandwiches, a variety of pasta with olive oil and vinegar. The plato principal consisted of callos a la Madrileña, zarzuela de mariscos, pescado a la Vizcaina, lengua con cetas, paella Valenciana, roasted leg of lamb with herbs, suckling pig, and short plate Angus beef.