CEBU, Philippines - Hand it to the celebrated sculptor Ramon Orlina when it comes to celebrations. As the prestigious University of Santo Tomas brought to a close the series of festivities to commemorate its 400th year of existence, the artist opted to have his own celebration – that of the first year anniversary of his masterpiece sculpture monument “QuattroMondial” a popular showcase at the university campus and another birthday milestone in his life, with a never-seen-before concert followed by a sit-down dinner at the impressive lobby of the UST College of Law.
The program featured three of the Philippines’ foremost artists in their respective fields of music; namely, pianist Raul Sunico, soprano Rachelle Gerodias and violinist Gina Medina who performed well-loved kundimans that were greatly appreciated by the guests.
The evening was made more special with the introduction of a young soprano, Cris Go, a student at The Philippine High School for the Arts. She most specially impressed the invitees with her interpretation of the Our Father in A capella.
In fact, the performance ended with a standing ovation and rousing applause that didn’t seem to end.
Among those present were fellow visual artists Betsy Westendorp, Pandy Aviado, Egai Fernandez, Gus Albor and Nemi Miranda, colleagues from the artistic and cultural community, Boots Anson Roa, Bambi Harper, Donnie Ramirez, Elizabeth Reyes, Hans Springer, Ginny Cruz and Boots Herrera.
To give their unstinting support were gallery owners, Silvana Diaz, Lori Juvida, Amy Loste, Jonathan Sy and Jack Teotico.
Others who came included Senator Ramon Magsaysay Jr., Dean of the UST College of Law Nilo Divina, Tetta Agustin and Christian Baveray, fellow car restorers and enthusiasts Dodo and Marigie Macapagal, Eddie and Cecil Salonga, art collectors Tom and Marge Tan, Cheong Yan and Tess See, Poseng Yuen, Leny de Borja, Jun Naranjilla and Joel Jimenez, and couturier Lito Perez and Rogie Reyes who are both working closely with the artist to promote the town of Taal in Batangas as an alternative tourist destination.
The evening ended on a high note as good friends Tony Pastor, Fedore Yap, Carmen Clavecilla and Tata Poblador joined in the singing of favorite ballads.