Exceptional ladies

"I will not speak ill of any man, and speak all the good I know of everybody."–Benjamin Franklin

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CWC president Lulu Tesoro Castañeda, supported by Pilie Aquino, Sofia Zobel de Elizalde, Junie Peña, Lita Gelano, Bea Zobel de Ayala and Tessie Luz organized an elegant tea party to celebrate CWC’s 80th anniversary.

Forty-six members were honored during CWC’s Recognition Day. Each was given a hand-made rosary of south sea pearls. Conceived by Sofia, the rosaries were crafted by the Sisters of the Immaculate Conception of Novaliches and Cebu.

Past president Cecile Ortigas, widely respected for her dedication to CWC despite her condition, was one of the honorees. Victoria Mailhe was given a posthumous award for her unparalleled commitment which extended from 1946 until her passing in 1999. Her grandson Edouard received the award in behalf of his grandmother’s work which earned the grand dame the Papal award Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice.

Mercedes Gonzales led the over 40 honorees. Her reflection on her CWC years was moving. Eleven pairs of CWC mother and daughter led by Leonor Guerrero (64 years with the club) and daughter Miren Berenguer Testa were likewise honored during the finale. Joining them were Carmen Carceller (33 years) and daughter Carmiña Mantecon. All four are lifetime members.

To the CWC’s distinguished women, I extend my admiration for your selflessness and dedication. CWC would not have reached its 80th year without you!

Welcome to the family, Paeng!

Central Bank Gov. Rafael "Paeng" Buenaventura’s union to artist non-pareil and exquisite beauty Marivic Rufino was warmly received by the respected Rufino clan. The family feted the couple at Doña Miding Rufino’s stately residence in Forbes Park, Makati City.

Paeng and Marivic were showered with good wishes during the relaxed evening. They were toasted with much bantering and bonhomie in the cozy gathering.

To you Marivic and Paeng, I share the family’s fondest wishes for a union that will be filled with love, happiness and many, many years of wedded bliss. Congratulations!

Greetings

Happy birthday to our celebrators today: Jose Antonio Gonzales, designer Ben Farrales and Joey Rufino.

Advanced birthday greetings to former First Lady Imelda Marcos, Baby O’Brien, Celuch Manahan and Gilbert Dee, July 2; Vicky Veloso, Viring Ongkeko, Tommy Manotoc and Edgardo Tordesillas, July 3; Vice President and Foreign Affairs Secretary Tito Guingona, Peter Pailan Go and Juan Velasquez, July 4; Mariano Arenas, July 5; actor Nestor de Villa, July 6; and Ramon Atayde and Kitty Jacinto, July 7.

So, how was your week?