A sizzling sunset at the Lagoon

The hottest summer party in the island of Boracay took place not on the beach, but in a very unique lagoon-inspired resort. Gates recently opened for a sunset party at The Regency Lagoon Resort, a magnificent masterpiece of the magnanimous chairman Henry Chusuey and his equally brilliant son Alfons. Guests present in the party were treated to the inviting sight of the Regency Lagoon’s expansive lagoon-like swimming pool that measures 1,200 square meters, making it the largest on the island. A tour of the world-class rooms of this wonderful resort left the guests in awe as they took a glimpse of what the Regency Lagoon has in store exclusively for guests who are 18 years old and above. The party, hosted by your columnist, was filled with laughter, fun, surprises and raffle prizes including a day trip to Tagaytay from Ford Philippines. Seen among those who enjoyed the first party at this latest venture in Boracay were celebrities Donita Rose, Angelika dela Cruz, Diether Ocampo, Pinky Webb and Ginger Conejero. Seair commercial affairs vice president Patrick Tan, Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) honorary chairman Sergio Ortiz Luis with wife Marge, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) chairman lawyer Mike Varela with wife Cecile also had a great time at the brightly-colored gathering. Cheers to this fine resort on the paradise island!

(For bookings and reservations, call 353-7777 or (036) 288-2828 to 32, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.regencylagoon.com.ph)

Delightful get-togethers

People believe that the time prior to and after elections is stressful and busy. This axiom happens to be true but is not limited to politics. Your columnist had the good fortune (albeit somewhat physically demanding) of covering some delightful and heart-warming events during the pre- and post-election period, starting with a beautifully planned dinner in the well-appointed North Forbes Park residence of Angola Consul Helen Ong, first vice president of the Society for Cultural Enrichment Inc. (SCEI). Your columnist then segued to the thanksgiving dinner of Finina Ayuyao Koh to celebrate the union of friends who have been together for 42 years. It was hosted by Finina at the elegant Prince Albert Rotisserie at the Hotel InterContinental.

I then had the pleasure of attending the Dangal ng Bulacan Foundation’s seventh anniversary a few evenings later, which included an art exhibit to honor the successful Bulakeños in their search for activities to contribute to the growth, progress and improvement in the quality of life of the people of Bulacan, this time held at the Club Filipino and featured one of the most respected and charming diplomats, former Ambassador to the Court of St. James Jesus “Chuching” Tambunting as guest speaker.

A few days later, I enjoyed an “everybody’s party” with “the ladies who lunch” at Chef Jessie at Rockwell Club. This time with close friends who exude beauty in many aspects of life: Friends for the Cultural Concerns of the Philippines (FCCP) immediate past president Minerva Tanseco, Letty Hahn, Beng Fores, Annabelle Adriano, Tessie Amparo, Nenuca Blardony and several others who are part of a group that thoroughly enjoys friendship based on mutual respect and common interests. A wonderful experience to know these ladies!

Oh, and since I mentioned politics earlier, my heartfelt congratulations to Jejomar “Junjun” Binay Jr. for earning the mayoralty seat in the City of Makati. I raise my glass to you!