Dia de Santiago at the Casino Español de Cebu

CEBU, Philippines - Casino Español de Cebu was privileged to have His Excellency Spanish Ambassador Luis Arias Romero and his charming wife Soledad as guests of honor at the club’s annual Dia de Santiago celebration held at the Salon de España.

The newly re-elected club president Manuel Sainz, together with members of the board: Vice President Jose Luis Alba, Secretary Antonio Veloso, Treasurer Renato Kintanar, House Chairman Gabriel Leyson and Directors Jaime Escaño and John Pages were on hand to warmly welcome members and their guests.

President Sainz, in perfectly worded Spanish, greeted members and other invitees and enthusiastically enumerated the planned activities for the club’s 90th anniversary celebration in the coming year. Past presidents will work hand in hand to ensure the success of the much anticipated event.

Spanish Honorary Consul Jaime Picornell formally introduced the Ambassador who spoke on the importance of the long standing friendship both countries enjoy and its significance in the global development. The welcome remarks culminated with a heartwarming toast offered by the Ambassador and the Board to all present.  

The highlight of the evening was the plaque of appreciation given by the Board to the Ambassador for his continued support in the club’s efforts in promoting Spanish culture and traditions.

Don Santiago Picornell was likewise presented with a plaque of appreciation in recognition for being the oldest member of the club at ninety seven years of age.

 As it was a tapas buffet night with guests feasting on a delightful spread of pica picas that included jamon serrano, tortillas, chorizos, gambas, pinchos, ensaladas, and a lot more. Spanish wines continuously flowed all evening.

Immediately after dinner, the On The Cover Band played and just about everyone took to the dance floor, including Ambassador Arias Romero and his wife Soledad.

 Long standing members in attendance were past presidents Louie Aboitiz and his wife Annie, Kiting Moro and his better half Daisy, Julina Muertegui, Chuchu and Margot Larrañaga, Myra Gonzalez, Carmen Campbell, Paqui Aboitiz and civic leaders David and Tess, planners Rosebud Sala and Teresin Mendezona, working socialites Tessie Javier and Rafaelita Pelaez Chan.

Ed Tongco, the hands-on, approachable general manager certainly outdid himself with the evening’s preparations. Rudy Rubi, the ever dedicated and loyal service manager, also received felicitations for the impeccable service throughout the evening.

The annual Dia de Santiago is a fun-filled event that toasts to good cheers, cherished traditions and deepening friendship between Filipinos and the Españoles. As the guests reluctantly left the place, they were comforted with the thought that another great Casino party is never far away.