8 of Cebu's best

Phone giant Nokia gave honor to 8 of Cebu’s best with an invitation –only black and white dinner that attracted many of the region’s respected names. They are Cebu’s 8 icons who excel in their respective fields resulting from strength of character, elegance in charity, passion for life, value of inner beauty, treasure in craftsmanship, virtue of one’s individuality, rarity in élan, and the power of influence. The chosen icons personify the phone giant’s new gem, the Nokia 8800 Sapphire Arte.

First on the list is founder and president of the Coffee Dream Shop chain, Glenn Anthony Soco who is not only preoccupied with coffee but also sits as president for two other companies: MIMS, Cebu’s biggest manpower services company, and Powerline Human Resources Management, Inc. In addition, he serves as the executive vice president of G.A. Satellite Ventures, Inc.   Successfully managing these four companies requires the rare quality of confidence and strength of character.

On the other hand, Mariquita Salimbangon-Yeung has always been well provided for. However, what she has in plentitude she shares with those who have none. A philanthropist by heart, she formed the Mariquita Salimbangon-Yeung Charitable Foundation, one of the biggest benefactors of Operation Smile, helping lift up the self esteem of those whose faces are physically marred from birth. Elegance, charm, beauty and a big heart, make Salimbangon-Yeung an icon worth emulating.

And then there’s the young and vibrant John Paul Chiongbian, the brains behind Cebu’s hottest nightspots: Club Vudu, Formo and Paseo. His success emanates from his passion for the good life and his ability to translate that passion into a successful business venture, truly an iconic ability that can only be hatched by a person born to be great.

The fourth icon named that night was 1996 Bb. Pilipinas International Yedda Kittilsvedt-Romualdez whose beauty extends from within. Unlike most beauty queens whose socio-civic involvement ends with their title, Yedda has overextended her charitable work a decade and more from the time she won her title. Her charitable efforts reflect the beauty that is beyond the physical making her a one-of-a-kind beauty titlist, and an icon worthy of admiration.

Kenneth Cobonpue is known for his exceptional craftsmanship and his unparalleled ability in making each of his creation a masterpiece. President and chief designer of Kenneth Cobonpue Furniture, his many local and international awards are a testament to the quality of work placed on every Kenneth Cobonpue piece. Truly inspiring.

Next in line is Marguerite Lhuillier, whose name in itself is already an icon. Her uniqueness and individuality are reflected in her artwork which is beyond the conventional canvass and paint. Her beautiful handicraft creations as the exclusive designer of Infini Export Collection (formerly Infini Handicrafts Collection) mirror the heart of an artist. An iconic creative artist.

An embodiment of style, the 7th icon honored by Nokia is Butch Carungay, managing director and chief creative officer of Avatar Accessories, Inc. His knowledge of the latest trends and fads in the world of fashion accessories and jewelries has accorded him with more than a dozen local and international awards for his elegant jewelry designs. The honor and pride Carungay has accumulated do not only show his eye for style, but reflect the global taste of the Cebuanos.

The 8th icon is Governor Gwen Garcia, the very first woman Governor of one of the country’s oldest settlement – the province of Cebu. Her ability to inspire others to act proves the influence that she commands over her subordinates and her peers. Her mere presence exudes a strong personality that makes people listen to her every word. Unlike most politicians, Garcia acts, not with force but with grace.

Cebu’s 8 icons are the people who have uplifted the status of Cebuanos in the world. Be proud you’re a Cebuano.