Mano Po, the top-rated film of the forthcoming Metro Manila Film Festival, was given a unique and unusual launch at the prestigious Tower Club, the country’s premier by-invitation-only business and social club.
Gracing the event were the film’s multi-awarded director Joel Lamangan, topnotch writer Roy Iglesias and members of the cast, led by Maricel Soriano, Richard Gomez, Ara Mina, Eddie Garcia, Gina Alajar, Boots Anson Roa, Tirso Cruz III, Cogie Domingo, Maxine Magalona and Eric Quizon.
The event was organized by Jayelles’ Roselle Rebano, Bong Palma Gil, Mikee Chanco and Suzette Morelos with yours truly as the master of ceremonies. Co-emcee was statuesque Ruffa Gutierrez.
Also present were Sen. Ed Angara; Sen. Loren Legarda who delivered an inspirational speech; Speaker Jose de Venecia with his lovely wife Gina; former Tourism Undersecretary Josie Lichauco; former Tourism Secretaries Vince Carlos and Gemma Cruz-Araneta; FCCP members Thelma Gana, Tereret Liboro, Mellie and Louie Ablaza, Sonny and Helen Ong, among others.
The launch was also attended by members of the diplomatic corps: Ambassador Theo Arnold of Netherlands; Canadian Ambassador Robert Collete; Cambodian Ambassador Ek Sereywath; Ambassador Ike Syquia of Malta; Consul Ian Sargeant of Great Britain; Consul Evie Costa of Togo.
Cocktails included champagne and exquisite wines and delicious crepes served at the Baron’s Bar. Taipans George Yang of McDonald’s and his wife, Kristine of Kristine Jewelry; Ian and Marissa Fenton; Paqui and Lilibeth Campos; Joey Cuisia; Serge and Yoli Ayson; Henry and Jojo Zabarte mingled until dinner was announced. The guests then headed to the Taipan Restaurant where they were greeted by cheongsam-clad ladies. The costumes used in the movie were displayed at the entrance of the dining room.
The program featured a welcome speech by Mother Lily followed by performances by Aubrey Miles and Ara Mina. Gary Valenciano and Tex Ordoñex sang the movie’s theme song.
Among the highlights of the night were the sneak preview of the movie and the introduction and picture-taking with the stars of Mano Po.
Everyone went home feeling proud of the accomplishments of Mother Lily and the opening of the movie in Philippine theaters this coming Dec. 25.
Congratulations, Mother Lily and Mano Po!
Advanced birthday greetings to Donald Marshall and Dr. Romeo Lucas, Dec. 23; Grace Gallego, Dec. 24; and a Merry Christmas and birthday greetings to Noel Benitez and Joyce Ramirez of JCSFX Media, Dec. 25; businessmen Macario "Cary" Rufino and Jun Campillo, socialite Mely Hechanova, Dec. 26; events specialist Roselle Rebano and business executive Boy Guevara, Dec. 27.
So, how was your week?