Happiness is Lucena at My City, My SM launch
MANILA, Philippines - It was a happy day when the “My City, My SM” campaign was launched in Lucena, Quezon. There was much to celebrate — Lucena’s rich cultural history, its scenic beauty, festivals similar to Mardi Gras like Pasayahan, and the talent and warmth of its people.
This vibrant spirit was captured in a floral theme, and the mall’s atrium was transformed into a garden setting — bright summer flowers and fresh exotic blooms. Drumbeaters in festive attire welcomed the guests, who came in floral printed clothes.
The evening honored two prominent Lucenahins — Hollywood beauty expert James Cooper and businesswoman Nova Veluz, who have brought much pride and inspiration to their city.
Lucena City Mayor Ramon Talaga, Department of Tourism Region IV Director Louella Jurilla, and Quezon Tourism Officer Gladys Mayor took turns in citing “My City, My SM” for its contribution to tourism in the province, and in honoring James and Nova, who have become known not only for their talent, but also for their civic projects in the city.
Department of Foreign Affairs Regional Director Edmundo Mangubat, Department of Trade and Industry Provincial Director Marcelino Alcantara, and Sangguniang Pang Tourismo Ng Quezon President Mario Magpaya later joined them in the unveiling of the panels of the honorees together with SM City Lucena mall manager Jason Terenal and assistant mall manager Ma. Celia Alquiros, and SM VP for Marketing Millie Dizon.
During the program, the Ms. D. Creative Dance Studio Scholars and Philippine Singing Idol Mau Marcelo, who is also from Lucena, entertained guests with song and dance numbers.
They enjoyed cocktail versions of Quezon province delicacies prepared by Luisa and Daughter Restaurant and F and M Restaurant and Catering. These included tree of life native dishes like Coco Balls with Sweet and Sour Dip and Fresh Mini Lumpiang Ubod, as well as Chami sa Tasa, Longanisa Lukban in rice wrap and okoy. There was also colorful fried kiping with lechon sauce and garlic mayonnaise, as well as desserts like budin or cassava cake, nilupak and minukmuk; and summer coolers like watermelon, honey dew, and melon juices.
An exhibit showcasing Quezon’s history, including old photographs of President Manuel L. Quezon, after whom the province was named, brought many of the guests back to their roots. Mallgoers also had a glimpse of the best of Quezon — tourist and water adventure attractions, cultural festivals, and of course, the food.
Prominent Quezonians, led by James and Nova, were also highlighted in the exhibit. Others included artist and painter Ronald Cortez and fashion designer Rholand Roxas.
The “My City, My SM” event at SM City Lucena is the eighth in this tourism driven campaign that features the many cities around the Philippines where SM is located in. The first, “I Left My Heart in San Fernando,” honored internationally acclaimed film director Brillante Mendoza and Mutya ng Kapamgpangan Nicolette Henson; “Cebu, Cebu” highlighted the best of Cebu through socialite Teresin Mendezona and the Aldeguer brothers — Jay, Michael, and Chris; while “Sweet Home Iloilo” featured Dr. Josette Biyo and Mang Inasal’s Edgar Sia II.
Just in time for the Panagbenga and Hot Air Balloon Festivals in February, “Baguio on My Mind” paid tribute to National Artist Bencab and Binibining Pilipinas Universe 2001 and lawyer Zora Andam; while “Up, Up and Away at Clark” featured CHED Chairman Dr. Emmanuel Y. Angeles and artist/foodie/writer Claude Tayag.
More recently, “If You Are Going to Santa Rosa” gave a rare glimpse of old Santa Rosa through Tatler Philippines magazine managing editor Chit Lijauco and the Tiongo brothers — Emil, Art and Jun; and “On the Road to Rosales” paid tribute to two generations — National Artist for Literature F. Sionil Jose and young talents like chess prodigy Samantha Revita and Sudoku champion Sarah Jane Cua.
“My City, My SM” is a project of SM and the Department of Tourism with support from The Philippine STAR.
