A toast to pure love

"The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in." – Mitch Albom

Victor Bernardo, the youngest son of Ambassador Joseph "Lani" Bernardo, Philippine Ambassador to Spain and his wife Conchitina Sevilla Bernardo, recently wed Lisa Gallaga, daughter of Aru Gallaga and the late Nena Ibazeta. The wholesome young woman, a school teacher and the dapper young Victor who works with insurance firm Mercer’s, sealed their promise of forever in a solemn church ceremony and a festive sunset reception that was both dramatic and inspiring in its simplicity and elegance.

The mass was celebrated by the Bernardo’s long-time friend, Archbishop of Tuguegarao Diosdado Talamayan who recounted how he saw the groom grow from an infant to a young man. The bride was radiant in a Pitoy Moreno creation of fine Chantilly lace and a long sweeping train. For her head dress, the young bride wore the same diamond piece that her mother-in-law, Conchitina Bernardo, wore some 40 years ago. Principal sponsors included President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, jetsetter Nene Quimson, Speaker Jose de Venecia, Ambassador Roberto Romulo and Ambassador Albert del Rosario.

To Vic and Lisa, our best wishes for a very happy life together!

Royal Glitz

A day of royal glitz and resplendent glamor was held at Isulan, Sultan Kudarat recently when the 19-member of the Royal Council of the Grand Sultanate of Buayan turned over the title Datu Sa-Buayan to Datu Muslimin Sema and the new Rajah Buayan to Datu Pax Mangudadatu. The new Datu Sa-Buayan is the mayor of Cotabato City and Secretary General of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), while the new Rajah Buayan is the Provincial Governor of Sultan Kudarat. The fabulous historical event was composed of Muslim Mindanao A-listers and royalties in their colourful attire and breathtaking jewels.

Congratulations!

Johnny’s wine of the week

This week, your columnist recommends Wyndham Estate Bin 555 Shiraz, a deep crimson red wine with vibrant purple hues. A rich, full-bodied wine with powerful berry fruit flavors, plums and dark cherries with slightly lifted spice characters with fine tannins and a generous balance of oak, it will best complement most red meats, game and cheeses.

Exclusively imported and distributed by BestWorld Beverage Brands.

(For inquiries, call 637-8491 to 94, or e-mail bbbi@pacific.net.ph.)

Greetings

Happy birthday to our celebrators today, lovely ladies Ising Vasquez, Aurora Lebron, Celia Cuasay and Gretchen Cojuangco.

Advance birthday greetings to Ethel Timbol, Kitty Reyes and Rovy Ledesma, Jan. 22; Shirley Matias-Pizarro, socialite Menchu Montilla and Ernest Escaler, Jan. 23; Julie Rufino, FCCP’s Pacita de Guzman and Stephen Morelos, Jan. 24; Lito Tulod, Rustan’s Cosmetics’ Robbie De Silva, my favorite doktora Vicki Belo and porcelain beauty Yoli Ayson, Jan. 25; Tony Gana, Jan. 26; world-class sculptor Ramon Orlina, Debbie Morta, Maritess Revilla-Araneta, actress Dina Bonnevie, Ricardo de Leon and Louie Santamaria, Jan. 27.

So, how was your week?

(For comments and inquiries, please email me at jjlitton@indanet.com)