A Spanish celebration in Cebu
The grand celebration of the Dia de Santiago in honor of Saint James, patron saint of Spain at the Casino Español de Cebu by the Filipino Spanish community, is one of the most anticipated social events and this year’s affair was no exception.
Special guests of honor were Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines Luis Arias and his charming wife, Soledad, both frequent Cebu visitors. Club president Manuel Sainz welcomed the Spanish ambassador and wife, members and their guests and thanked them for their continued support to the Casino Español’s many social and cultural activities.
Ambassador Arias expressed thanks to the Cebuanos, who have consistently made their visits, short as they are, most welcome and fun. He likewise extended sincere condolences to the family of the late Jose Luis Alba who served as president of the Casino Español and was instrumental in pushing and converting the Casino, into a proprietary membership club.
Prior to dinner the invitees were asked to gather at the carving station where chef Toto de los Reyes presented a suckling pig that was cut with a plate to accentuate its succulent tenderness.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the special edition of the Boletin Informativo by Sainz assisted by the author, Honey Jarque Loop, to His Excellency Arias in commemoration of the club’s 90th anniversary.
The celebration was made more festive with the lively tablao flamenco performed by lovely ladies from Bacolod such as Nanette Ocaña Yapjoco, Tina Jalandoni-Feria, Lisa Consing-Sy, Jennifer Gochangco-Ong and Irene Lopez-Coo. They were joined by Sebastian Coscolluela. The talented dancers are from the studio of Mayen Gomez Lizares.
With formalities over, everyone relaxed and the tradition of sharing the meal and fellowship once again gave rich meaning to the intimate gathering.
The gracious hosts for the gala festivities were club president Manuel Sainz; vice president Antonio Veloso Jr.; secretary Gabriel Leyson; treasurer Renato Kintanar; house chairman Rico Gandionco; sports director Ishmael Limkakeng Jr. and cultural affairs director John Domingo.
