But only a few will catch your heart." – Ben Crenshaw
The 2006 Best Dressed Women of the Philippines Awards became an ultra glamorous night that gathered business, diplomatic and social luminaries for a worthy cause. Organized by Jayelles Holdings for The Philippine Cancer Society, the much-awaited yearly event was held at the posh Rizal Ballroom of the Makati Shangri-La, dressed to the nines in a sparkling jewel motif. The celebration was led by PCS president Dr. Roberto Paterno, PCS special events chair Imelda Ongsiako Cojuangco, event chair Consul Helen Ong, co-chair architect Gerry Contreras and committee members Consul Fortune Ledesma, Asia’s fashion czar Pitoy Moreno and your columnist. The program, put together by Jayelles president Roselle Rebano and SVP Bong Palma-Gil with the direction of Raymond Villanueva, featured performances by the Sayaw Foundation children, actor-turned-balladeer Ricky Davao, a fashion parade by the awardees and an auction of premium jewelry. Aiming to generate funds for significant programs addressing cancer detection and care, the event reached this year’s goal in donations through ticket sales, pledges and the benefit auction.
The 2006 Best Dressed style icons were former beauty queen and ANWG president and first "Ms. Philippines" winner Cristina Galang Caedo and Cebu society figure Rosebud Sala. The Best Dressed 2006 awardees are society columnist and Franck Provost owner Baby Cruz, former Miss Universe and NGO advocate Margie Moran Floirendo, Silk Cocoon’s fashion designer and owner Jeannie Goulbourn, model Leica Carpo, busy mom and tennis enthusiast Marilu Batchelor, Rustan’s director Maritess Tantoco Enriquez, jewelry designer and socialite Lilibeth Campos, Batangas banking and real estate businesswoman Fely Mojares, Iloilo’s jewelry maker Susan Florete, Cagayan de Oro businesswoman Eimee Cragun and internationally renowned bag designer Bea Valdes.
Lending support to the affair were event partners Lifestyle Asia, San Miguel Corp., Bank of Commerce, Smart Communications, Landmark, Keleo Jewelry of Rustan’s, Lucerne, Hans Brumann, Rustan’s Essenses, F&C Jewelry, Jewelmer and Technomarine. Torres Wines also treated guests to fine wines during cocktails. Also giving their unwavering support and selfless service to the Ball were Ambassadors for Life Mabel Abaño, Consul Mellie Ablaza, Tess Castro, Baby de Jesus, Mars Lambino, Nini Layug, Olga Martel and Naty Pappas. It was an incredible night filled with merriment and love for cancer-stricken victims!
Looking forward to next year’s awards!
(More about the 2006 Best Dressed Women of the Philippines Awards’ splendid evening for worthy cause in my next column.)
So, how was your week?
(For comments or inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com)