The legacy of Valera

"True artists are almost the only men who do their work with pleasure."– Auguste Rodin

At the book launch of Valera, Cada Traje es una Obra Maestra, homage to master couturier Ramon Valera, six of the designer’s original creations were auctioned off to raise funds for the Philippine National Red Cross Blood Program. It was an evening of glamour, nostalgia and philanthropy, with Don Ramon’s family and close friends, colleagues and clients gracing the affair to honor the fashion icon.

A ceremonial toast was led by Irene Martel Francisco and Susana Madrigal, representing her aunt Chito Madrigal Collantes. Another exciting part of the affair was a tribute to Ramon Valera by 30 Filipino designers, who all interpreted the Valera touch in their own creations for the exhibit.

Let the Valera legacy live on!

Johnny Congratulates

Dr. Adolfo Bellosillo, founding president of the Foundation for Lay Education on Heart Diseases, was conferred the 2005 Community Service (National Level) Award by the Board of Directors of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association during UP’s 92nd Alumni Homecoming. Dr. Bellosillo was also the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award in Cardiology by the Philippine Heart Association in 1994 and the 2003 Outstanding Physician by the Dr. Jose P. Rizal Memorial Awards.

Congratulations! Greetings

Happy birthday to our celebrators today, Singapore Airlines’ charming Rita Dy and FCCP’s Cez Manalo.

Advance birthday greetings to designer Oskar Atendido, businessman Ramon Cojuangco Jr. and Teresa Arnaiz, Aug. 29; FCCP’s Rosita Fernandez, Aug. 30; Ramon Ty, Ramon "Eki" Cardenas, Philip Cruz and Dr. Lucresia Kasilag, Aug. 31; Mandarin Oriental GM Helmut Gaisberger, Tina Macasaet and Fanny Blanco, Sept. 2; and Tito Lagdameo, Sept. 3.

Happy wedding anniversary to Pete and Sari Cojuangco, Sept. 3. May you have many, many more momentous years together.

So how was your week?

(For comments and inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com)