Of captivating colors and nostalgic charms
The Philippine Heritage Society, under the leadership of founders Tess Castro, Nathan De Leon, and LyrOpera of the Philippines’ Sherwin Sozon, hosted a meaningful and mesmerizing event at Casa Blanca in historic Intramuros, Manila, to commemorate National Heritage Month.
Supported by The Manila Hotel and the Intramuros Administration, the enchanting affair was a celebration of our country’s rich culture and heritage through fashion, music, and arts, with festivities headed by this year’s appointed hermana, the inspiring and benevolent Mache Torres-Ackerman.
Fashion took center stage as lovely models, headed by Mache, walked the runway wearing glamorous creations by several esteemed designers.
The evening resounded with nostalgic melodies from the Marcy Band and soulful kundiman songs by LyrOpera of the Philippines singers. Traditional dances by the UP Filipiniana Dance Group and entertaining poetry readings added an artistic flair to the gathering.
The Philippine Heritage Society, guided by their maxim “We preserve the past to enrich the future,” already plans for a grander celebration next year with their new hermana, Kate Bellosillo. This year’s gala wove a tapestry of Filipino heritage, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who experienced its magic.
A well-deserved recognition
DMark Beauty Corporation CEO Nikki Tang was one of the recipients of the Philippines’ Most Exceptional Men & Women Awardee 2023 given by the Mrs. Universe Philippines Foundation headed by its national director, Maria Charo Calalo.
Held during the Mrs. Universe Philippines 2023 coronation night, the event was also a charity gala fashion show for the benefit of Li’l Brave Hearts, a non-profit organization and support group of the parents of children with Down syndrome that raises funds to help the surgical, medical, and nutritional needs of these children.
Known for her hard work and innovation in the country’s beauty industry, the “beautypreneur” — seen in the photo during the awarding ceremony held at Rizal Park Hotel in Manila — is surely deserving of this accolade.
All for enriching Philippine Art and Culture
Ambassador Chuching Tambunting, OBE, and his family made two substantial donations to the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP): a bust of their patriarch, Antonio, sculpted by National Artist for Visual Arts Abdulmari Asia Imao, and a portrait of their matriarch, Aurora, painted by National Artist for Painting Fernando Amorsolo.
The notable event was attended by the who’s who in the government, diplomatic, business, and social sectors, including house deputy speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and well-loved socialite Minerva Tanseco. After the turnover ceremony, the ambassador, his family, and the guests enjoyed wonderful conversations amid a delectable dinner and refreshing drinks.
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