It was indeed an elegant affair witnessed by the diplomatic and social communities as power couple — genial Consul General to Zambia Luis Ablaza and sophisticated wife Consul to Guatemala Mellie Ablaza — recently honored non-resident Ambassador of Guatemala to the Philippines, Byron Rene Escobedo Menendez, with a lavish cocktail reception and sit-down dinner graced by former Philippine President and Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Held at the Ablaza’s opulent home, the celebration had diplomatic and consular dignitaries as well as distinguished society figures indulging in a gastronomic feast. After dinner, guests were entertained by an amazing mini-concert presentation of master Xavi Jacomina Ablaza who proudly showed his talent on the marimba (the national musical instrument of Guatemala). Renowned Filipina soprano Clarissa Ocampo, accompanied by Dr. Myrna Lopez on the piano, also rendered an enthralling performance that had everyone enjoying the rest of the evening.
Congratulations to Consuls Luis and Mellie for hosting another splendid gathering!
Express yourself for charity
The Inner Wheel Club of Manila (IWCM) recently held its initial meeting for a charity event entitled Fashion Expression 2010. Led by directors and event co-chairmen Minerva Tanseco, Fanny Blanco and Cristina Belton with the help of the Rotary Club of Manila, the event is set to be held on Aug. 26 at the Manila Polo Club. Seen at the gathering were Rustan’s designer Criselda Lontok, Cinderella co-owner Malou de Venecia and representatives from SM. See you at the gala!
GREETINGS
Happy birthday to our celebrators today, Asia’s Queen of Song Pilita Corrales and Silk Cocoon’s Frances Lim.
Advance birthday greetings to Jenny Zamora and Allure’s Luis Espiritu, Aug. 23; Mameng Carag, Sen. Vicente Sotto III and Raul Teehankee; golfer and theater magnate Bobby Yang and Summit Publishing boss Lisa Gokongwei-Cheng, Aug. 25; pediatrician Liaa Cojuangco-Bautista, Aug. 26; Bench boss Ben Chan, Aug. 27; Singapore Airlines’ charming Rita Dy, FCCP’s Cez Manalo, Joaquin “Chino” Rebano and Valerie Mayor-Sotto, Aug. 28.
So, how was your week?
(For comments or inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com)