CEBU, Philippines - The Casino Español de Cebu, founded in 1920 by the fun-loving Spaniards who yearned for a place of their own, a slice of their Madre Patria where they could gather to relax, to socialize and most importantly to commemorate and celebrate their indigenous fiestas, celebrates its 90th anniversary with a series of activities throughout the year.
One of the most recently concluded events was an art exhibit of endearing oil paintings by 21 top Cebuano artists such as Sonia Yrastorza, Jose Kimsoy Yap, Celso Duazo Pepito, Chicoy Romualdez and Jose Mari Picornell, all highlighting the Spanish influence on the local culture.
Consul General of the Spanish Embassy in Manila Mercedes Alonso Frayle formally closed the well-attended exhibition.
The Amigos de España, an association organized over two decades ago by española Rosario Muñoz, a long time resident of Cebu, hosted an intimate dinner at the Salon de Barcelona for the guest of honor.
The officers of the Amigos de España are Amparito Lhuillier as president, Susan Sala as vice president, Myra Gonzalez Osmeña as secretary, Julina Muertegui as treasurer and Honorary Consul of Spain Jaime Picornell as Public Relations Officer.