A glittering tribute fit for a fashion icon

It was one grand affair to remember as close friends from the social and business circles recently gathered to give tribute to “Fashion Czar of Asia” Pitoy Moreno at the Isla Ballroom of EDSA Shangri-La Hotel. Those in attendance at the stylish evening were amazed by a stunning fashion show that featured the works of Pitoy who has been in the fashion industry for over 60 years. Guests were also enthralled by an exhibit that showcased his creations for society icons. Among those who had a wonderful time were ABS-CBN chairman and CEO Eugenio “Gabby” Lopez III, president and COO Charo Santos-Concio, Dee Zobel, Stella Marquez-Araneta, Bea Zobel Jr. and Vicky Zubiri. The proceeds of this elegant gathering will benefit the Lopez Group Foundation Inc. (LGFI) for its projects to help the Filipinos and promote Philippine arts and culture. What a great way to pay homage to the one and only Pitoy! Cheers!

Strengthening cultural ties

A heartwarming gathering for the Filipino and Spanish communities recently took place as Philippine Ambassador to Spain Carlos Salinas and wife Lita were feted to a dinner-dance affair hosted by the effervescent Charina Zaragoza. Her beautiful La Morolya residence in Madrid was filled with delectable Spanish fare and joyful music thoroughly enjoyed by Filipino residents and Spanish guests. Ambassador Carlos also paid a visit to the Rastrillo Nuevo Futuro charity bazaar that aimed to raise funds for the benefit of homeless children. The Philippine Embassy, with the help from members of the Filipino community, sold various Philippine-made products like jewelry, hand-beaded bags and home products made of indigenous materials at the Philippine booth.

For Ambassador Carlos’ laudable efforts in strengthening Filipino-Spanish ties, Mabuhay!

A journey to the religious capitals of Europe

Most people believe that traveling is the best form of education. But for Rajah Travel Corp. vice president Alice San Juan, going on a pilgrimage turned out to be a life-changing experience. Accompanied by Fr. Mario Sobrejuanite, SSP, Alice and her group went on a tour of the religious shrines in Europe. Among the places they visited incuded Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal, Our Lady of Lourdes (where they bathed in its miraculous waters!) and Nevers (where the incorruptible body of St. Bernadette is buried) in France, the Cathedral of Turin (where the Holy Shroud is kept) and Florence (to see the Duomo) in Italy. The group was very lucky to have witnessed Pope Benedict XVI in St. Peter’s Square and received his Papal blessing, which was followed by a tour of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. Traveling to these holy places and seeing the relics were spiritually-enriching experiences for the group!