CEBU, Philippines - Ana Climaco had every reason to celebrate her birthday. Never mind the fact that she was turning 50.
Ana, blessed with a loving family, caring relatives and supportive friends, wanted to express her gratitude to all the special people in her life. And what better way than to have them gather at Villa Rosario, the private enclave of the Climacos in Mactan.
The resort offers an incomparable view of the Mactan Channel where the azure blue waters lap gently against the shore.
Invitees gamely donned colorful outfits that blended beautifully with the party theme which was inspired by the popular Broadway musical Mamma Mia.
As expected, executive chef Derek Dytian of Creative Cuisine whipped up a fantastic menu. For starters, there was a variety of mixed greens with a selection of condiments and dressings. Surrounding the festive tables were different food stations. Assorted pastas were paired either with wild mushroom and pesto cream sauce or Bolognese. The carving station served Angus beef and chicken kebabs and lamb moussaka.
The evening’s entertainment showcased excerpts from the smash hit musical based on Abba songs. Relatives and friends expressed their warm sentiments for the celebrant with a couple of song and dance numbers. Ana’s mom, Charito, together with her sisters-in-law Ellen Climaco, Lydia Climaco, Blanquita Climaco and Consuelo Climaco Kingsley, performed a much applauded, choreographed dance number to the tune of Mamma Mia. Nephews Alphonso and Marco Alegrado delighted the invitees with their own interpretation of Don’t Stop Believing by Journey.
Certainly the most anticipated part of the program was the performance of golden gal Ana together with gutsy ladies sister Gemma Khodaverdi , Cathee Bernedo, Joy Climaco and June Marie Dosdos dressed in beaded pantsuits doing a fabulous adaptation of Super Trooper and Voulez Vous.
The merriment continued throughout the evening with a lively ambiance provided by the La Mer Band who played Abba songs in the background.
The celebrator didn’t mind counting the years and counting the candles on the birthday cake, which was baked by Marisse Alvarez Sy. Ana simply wanted to share her many wonderful blessings with the special people who have touched her life and have made it even more beautiful.
Guests left pleased and happy with the party keepsakes that consisted of organic herb plants in decorative mini baskets, which were lovingly crafted by Ana herself. This lively and heartfelt birthday event was another perfect celebration which etched a lovely memory invitees are sure to treasure for a long time to come.