Dia de la Hispanidad 2012

CEBU, Philippines - Any countries in the new world celebrate the anniversary of Christopher Columbus' arrival in the Americas which occurred on October 12, 1492. In the United States, the event is celebrated as Columbus Day, in Latin America as Dia de la Raza ,and in Spain and the Philippines as Dia de la Hispanidad – a celebration of the diversity of the Hispanic community around the world.

In keeping with time honored tradition, Casino Español de Cebu recently hosted a formal sit-down dinner for members and their guests at the Grand Salon de España.

The club's board of directors led by  president Buddy Veloso, Vice president Nonoy Tirol and his wife Merian, secretary Gabby Leyson and his partner Tina Jordana and treasurer David Chan and his wife Tess, director for social and cultural affairs, Paco Jarque and his wife Monique and director for sports Louie Moro and his wife Lynn, were on hand to welcome members and their guests.

The gentlemen  adhering  to the dress code came in either formal barong tagalog or dark suits  while the lovely ladies were  stunning in elegant evening gowns and cocktail dresses.

Just before dinner, the  officers  together with former Spanish Honorary Consul Jaime Picornell  raised their glasses and invited all present to toast  to the president of the Philippines, Benigno Aquino Jr., to the Reyes de España  Don Juan Carlos and  Doña Sophia, and to the peoples of both nations.

Everyone feasted on sumptuous dishes laid out on various food stations that showcased the house specialties. For starters they had jamon serrano, croquetas,  a selection of Spanish cured meats and smoked salmon. The main course consisted of paella completa,  US Angus prime chuck roll of beef, pescado mayonesa, whole lamb with mint, roast turkey  and chicken pastel.  

The evening's entertainment music was  provided by the rocking 60s band from Manila and Cebu's very own Phoenix band  which  had the guests dancing till  dawn.

This annual grand event was another perfect celebration and  special thanks must go to  the entire board, ably assisted by club general manager May Ocaba, F/B director Marina Codina and assistant events manager Ritchel Bojos  who pulled out all the stops to make this much anticipated event one to remember  for years to come. (FREEMAN)