Treasures of Tarlac

“Peace begins with a smile.” — Mother Teresa

Reliving a unique Filipino Christmas tradition, dedicated patrons of culture and the arts Tarlac Heritage Foundation founder Isabel Cojuangco-Suntay and her daughter, Dr. Isa Cojuangco-Suntay, recently led the Belenismo sa Tarlac 2010 in Tarlac. The colorful event was highlighted with a province-wide Belen-making competition that aims to showcase the artistic, social and religious significance of the Belen, the symbol of Christ’s birth, while promoting Tarlac as a promising tourism destination. Invited guests from the diplomatic, government and social circles had a great time marveling at the spectacular renditions of the Belen and discovering the treasures of Tarlac. Congratulations Isabel and Isa for cultivating this Christmas Filipino tradition!

Mabuhay!

Bienvenida, Mely and Edna!

(Seated, from left) Edna Lhuillier, Dr. Elenita Binay, former Sen. Loi Ejercito and Mely Hechanova; (standing, from left) Nini Licaros, Karen Macasaet, generous host Nene Leonor and Thelma Gana.

Generous ladies Karen Macasaet and Dr. Elenita Binay recently hosted two separate bienvenida luncheons for their dear friends, the ever-lovely Edna Lhuillier and the affable Mely Hechanova at the posh Aubergine Restaurant at The Fort, Taguig and at the German Club in Makati. Both gatherings were well-attended by Edna and Mely’s closest friends who were glad to see them again.

Welcome back!

One memorable birthday luncheon

(Seated, from left) Friends for the Cultural Concerns of the Philippines immediate past president Minerva Tanseco, Tereret Liboro, celebrator Dr. Elenita Binay, Alice Briones and Beng Fores; (standing, from left) Lydia Reyes, Criselda Lontok, Guatemala Consul Mellie Ablaza, Angola Consul Helen Ong, Tessie Amparo and Baby De Jesus.

True to her loving and generous nature, the vivacious Friends for the Cultural Concerns of the Philippines (FCCP) immediate past president Minerva Tanseco recently gathered everyone for a birthday luncheon honoring the well-loved Dr. Elenita Binay. Held at the Shang Palace of the Makati Shangri-La hotel, the gathering had friends enjoying a memorable afternoon of exquisite food and great company.

Wishing you happiness and all the best, Dr. Binay!

GREETINGS

Happy birthday to our celebrator today, Wilcon’s EVP Lorraine Belo and Sonia Mayor.

Advance birthday greetings to Winnie Go, Jan. 10; Jayelles Holdings (Philippines), Inc. vice president Allan Litton and Gen. Ismael Villareal, Jan. 12; Cynthia Santiago and Conrad Calalang, Jan. 13; Dingdong Eduque and Archie King, Jan. 14; FCCP’s Nena Casimiro, Jan. 15.

So how was your week?

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