CEBU, Philippines - Ramon Jarque, the youngest of my three brothers, celebrated another milestone in his life when he turned 60 recently.
Very true to his good-natured and uncomplicated character, Mon, as he is fondly called – simply wanted quiet, quality time with family as he marked his special day.
Unknown to him, his three children had other plans for him.
A few days prior to the big day, Cebu resident and youngest daughter Cristina and her husband Mike Sasnouvski casually invited their dad for dinner at the Casino Español de Cebu. Over dessert, Mon’s London-based eldest daughter Margarita Bellal and brother Eduque, on job training in Europe, walked in and surprised him. Understandably Mon was speechless, overwhelmed with happiness.
Preparations began in earnest. Everyone pitched in with ideas, keeping in mind the celebrant’s wish for a simple affair. And so it was, a close-knit dinner at his well appointed home with immediate family, relatives and some closest of the closest friends in attendance.
The invitees walked along the driveway which was lined with torches and white and black balloons that were strategically placed among the lush foliage.
Ramon, an avid fan of the Beatles, together with the guests enjoyed a video anthology of the legendary British group that Eduque masterfully put together.
The night’s piece de resistance was the surprise video presentation chronicling memorable moments from Ramon’s life that left some invitees in stitches and others close to tears.
It was an evening of merriment and many happy memories for this birthday celebrator who is definitely loved by everyone.