Dinner-dance marks Dia de la Hispanidad

It is one of the much awaited and most anticipated social events in the metropolis and certainly this year’s La Gran Celebracion de la Dia de la Hispanidad at the Casino Español de Cebu by the Filipino-Spanish community was no exception, as always year after year.

The evening began with the unveiling of an impressive mural of historical scenes of Barcelona, Spain at the club’s courtyard by artist Rene Robles with guests of honor Honorary Spanish Consul Jaime Picornell and art enthusiast Susan Sala. Bebidas y vinos were served while several invitees leisurely viewed and revi-ewed, admired and appreciated the fine work of art.

In dark tailored suits, the hard- working board of directors, led by its president Cheling Sala, vice president Gabriel Leyson, secretary Jimmy Escaño, treasurer Manuel Sainz, house chairman Rico Gandionco, and director for social and cultural affairs Antonio Veloso Jr. warmly welcomed members and their friends at the reception line for the formal cena y baile at the grand ballroom Salon de España.

Adhering to the strict dress code for the evening, the gentlemen came in either black tie or formal barong tagalog, while the ladies were resplendent in fashionable cocktail dresses and beautiful gowns. Making an understated statement in their striking red outfits were architect Tessie Javier, dance enthusiast Jane Llaban, civic worker Alice Lim, and bubbly Maricris Gandionco. In classic black were sterling realtor Gigi Alvarez, restaurateur Marilen Jarque, and stylish young matrons Chichi Martinez and Pritchit Borromeo.

Equally distinguished were the gentlemen, House Deputy Speaker Raul del Mar, Antonio Lozada, Anton Quisumbing, Emil Lamata, Joey Villareal, and Brian Head.

Everyone feasted on the specialties de la casa. Starters included ensalada casera, jamon serrano, assorted open-faced tea sandwiches, and a variety of pasta. The plato principal consisted of callos a la madrileña, zarzuela de mariscos, pescado a la vizcaina, lengua con cetas, paella valenciana, roasted leg of lamb with herbs, suckling pig, and short plate Angus beef.

The night’s entertainment provided by the Mutya Orchestra and Latin singer Nelson Lerin had everyone dancing all night. And they did. And how. Ole!