Diplomats and businessmen unite for a worthy cause

The country’s movers and shakers in business and in the diplomatic community came together for a worthy and very fashionable cause – they made a collective vow to help VSO Baha-ginan, the national partner agency London-based of Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO). UK Ambassador Peter Beckingham and his lovely wife Jill hosted a cocktail party at their posh residence in North Forbes Park, which served as the organizational launch of VSO Bahaginan. Here’s to the success of such a worthy cause!

* * * A Diamond Of A Park

The Heritage Park, the country’s most modern memorial park and mortuary, is such a multi-purpose place – it is like a diamond with many facets. Its fine lawn grass and rows of majestic trees are perfect for a picnic and some family bonding. The wide open spaces are ideal for family activities such as kite flying, biking, or simply strolling around the vast area. A crystal-clear lagoon contains plenty of fish for everybody to try their angling skills.

On special days, Heritage Park transforms into an activity-oriented place. Audiences can groove to outdoor concerts featuring top bands and singers that are regularly held inside the park. The place is also wide enough for walks for charity or fun runs. During Easter and Halloween, a smorgasbord of activities transpires: costume competitions, face painting, treasure hunts, magic shows, and fun contests. For Chinese Filipinos, the park will soon complete the Pavilion, an architectural marvel incorporating many features of Buddhist building design; Chinese geomancy expert Charlie Chao has held consultations at the place. The elegance of Heritage Park also lends itself to classy events such as the recent painting session and exhibit featuring art masterpieces from some of the country’s top artists. No wonder that families visit often throughout the year! See you at Heritage Park!

(Located in Fort Bonifacio, The Heritage Park is five minutes away from the Manila Golf Club and Manila Polo Club. For inquiries, call 845-2334 to 38 or e-mail sales@heritagepark.com.ph)

* * * Behind Elegance And Good Taste

Your columnist congratulates suave Bergamo president Mel Meer for successfully dressing up many of elite Manila’s classy ladies and stylish gentlemen. For the past 17 years, Mel and his knowledgeable staff have been creating comfortable custom-made suits I use for formal and gala events. Love your creations, Mel!

* * * Of Love And Passion

A love true and tender will unite lovebirds Francisco Roberto "Coco" Mauricio and Patricia "Pat" Kierulf in an intimate wedding on March 18 at the Assumption Cathedral in Bangkok, Thailand. The beautiful young lady, a Brent School and De La Salle graduate currently pursuing her AIM master’s degree, finally said yes to her dear Coco, a Johnson & Johnson executive who received his degree from Ateneo and his MBA at UCLA.

It seems that all of the pretty Kierulf girls are tying the knot, starting with Kitty who got married to Franco Limjuco, which will be followed by Casey Kierulf, Diane Kierulf Fletcher, and Katrina Kierulf who will say their "I do’s" in the next 12 months. Who knows, maybe Jillian and Jacqueline, the only ones who aren’t engaged, will also find their prince charmings and decide to follow suit? Coco and Pat will be joined by proud parents Antonio and Marife Mauricio and Joey and Tina Kierulf and other close friends and family on their despedida de soltera today at the luxurious residence of their loving aunt, the exquisite Jojo Zabarte. Best wishes to you, Coco and Pat!