A Diamond Lady

CEBU, Philippines - Reaching the age of 90 is an accomplishment worthy of a celebration. Family, relatives and friends gathered together at the Casino Español de Cebu to  join Adelaida Javier, Laling as she is fondly called, on her extraordinary milestone.

The event began with a Mass at the club’s Zaragoza Room  officiated by Monsignor Binghay. This  was followed by a superb Filipino fusion  buffet.

Greeting her on that special evening were friends of long standing, Teresin Mendezona, Honorary Consul of Spain Jaime Picornell and his wife Cecilia, Jane Llaban, Tony and Grace Lozada, Gina Kahler and many others.  

The endearing  tributes beautifully expressed everyone’s love and appreciation for what the celebrator has exceptionally done and continues to do through her active involvement in charity work for the community.

Cebu Mayor Michael Rama then offered a toast as  daughter Tessie and her sister in law  Rhonda  rolled in the birthday cake.  Everyone   joined  in  singing the lively birthday song.

As  dessert was being served,  a surprise video clip chronicling memorable moments from  Laling’s life flashed on the screen that left the guests in stitches. 

 Starting the night’s dancing was a vibrant tango presentation by daughter Tessie, an accomplished architect. But undoubtedly the night’s piece de resistance was the rousing medley dance number led by the celebrant  and her dancing gals who call themselves oldies but goldies.

Wrapping up the program was the cutting of the  splendid birthday cake  lovingly baked by Marisa Unchuan.  It was a  moving sight, for a truly blessed  lady. 

It was a beautiful evening filled with warm wishes, good friends, music and lots of  dancing. (FREEMAN)