Governor Gwen at 57

As she entered the Capitol Social Hall on her birthday, Governor Gwendolyn F. Garcia was wearing a smile, still with that euphoria after receiving the "Most Business-Friendly Local Government" award from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry during the 38th Philippine Business Conference at the Manila Hotel in Manila.

We have been covering practically all the social events of Gov. Gwen since she assumed office as the first lady governor of Cebu in 2004. And for us, this was the first time we saw her so happy, greeting everyone with so much happiness on her face. In just three words: "Gwen was happy!"

At any rate, Gov. Gwen's last birthday celebration at the Capitol started with a Holy Mass celebrated by Msgr. Roberto "Boy" Alesna concelebrated by Fr. Dan de los Angeles. After which, a real feasting was tendered to all the guests – mayors, vice mayors, provincial board members and other provincial officers. Of course, her father, Deputy Speaker Pablo Garcia, brother Rep. Pablo John Garcia, children Atty. Cristina and husband Mayor Duke Frasco, son Paolo and wife Michelle were in perfect attendance. After lunch, the governor brought her foreign and local guests to watch the dancing inmates of CPDRC.

For the indefatigable and well-liked Governor Gwen, her last birthday celebration at the Capitol, was the most memorable and fulfilling one she ever had as the lady governor of the Province of Cebu. God speed, GUV!