CEBU, Philippines - Many countries celebrate the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Americas on October12, 1492. The event, which marked the emergence of a large Spanish speaking community whose people share values, customs and traditions, is also celebrated at the Casino Español de Cebu. It is no coincidence that October 12, is also the Dia de Nuestra Señora Virgen del Pilar which is the Patron Saint of Spain.
The event was organized by the club Board of Directors led by two term president Manuel Sainz, vice president Antonio Veloso Jr., secretary Gabriel Leyson, treasurer Renato Kintanar, house chairman Rico Gandionco, director for cultural affairs John Domingo and director for sports activities Ishmael Limkakeng.
The celebration which is popularly known as Dia de la Hispanidad is one of the highlights of the club’s many yearly activities.
There was a special sparkle to the evening with those in attendance dressed in their best finery. The lovely ladies wore beautiful gowns and the gentlemen in Barong Tagalog made of delicate and intricately embroidered jusi or piña.
The program began with the brief welcome remarks of Manuel Sainz followed by the celebratory toasts to the Reyes de España Rey Juan Carlos y Reina Sofia, the president of the Republic of the Philippines and to the people of both nations proposed by Honorary Consul of Spain Jaime Picornell.
The elegant table settings decorated with red American roses and yellow dancing ladies depicted the colors of the Spanish flag. Executive chef Toto de los Reyes masterfully created delicious selection of tapas and terrines which were enjoyed by everyone prior to the dinner proper.
The well thought out menu included house specialties Arroz Paella, lengua estofada, pescado a la Vizcaina, cordero al horno and ensalada Española which complimented the ever growing popular Spanish wines from Rioja and the forever popular Cervezas de San Miguel.
The much talked about annual celebration was and will always be a grand gala tradition that the Casino Español de Cebu solely presents every 12th of October to members and their special guests. (THE FREEMAN)