A warm farewell party

“Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them to become what they are capable of being.” — Goethe

The ever-friendly and hardworking diplomat, outgoing Mexican Ambassador Erendira Araceli Paz Campos, was recently honored with a warm and joyful farewell dinner at Forbes Park. Hosted by Paing Hechanova, together with his gracious and lovely wife Mely, considered as one of the Philippines top hostesses, the memorable and touching occasion was a testament to the deep friendship developed between Ambassador Campos and the Hechanovas. The colorful and lively affair was graced by the presence of diplomats and government officials, who were greatly impressed with flowers and decor from Rustan’s and great food from Le Souffle. This truly inspiring event served as a gesture of appreciation to the kind and industrious Ambassador Campos, whose work has greatly helped bring progress to the country.

We hope to see you again in our country soon, Ambassador Campos!

High spirits

A sweet and aromatic scent infused the air as the The Bellevue Wine Society, an exclusive circle of wine lovers at The Bellevue Manila, the premier destination south of the metro, played host to yet another elegant and unforgettable night of wine tasting. The Bellevue’s visionaries chairman Johnny Chan, GM Patrick Chan and marketing and communications director Ryan Chan treated Manila’s elite to a splendid evening of high spirits, delectable canapés and excellent-tasting wines from Philippine Wine Merchants. Gourmands and wine connoisseurs indulged in stimulating conversations while enjoying the luxurious hotel’s exquisite ambiance, spectacular panoramic view of the city and accommodating staff. Cheers to The Bellevue!

Greetings

Happy birthday to our celebrators today, Freddie Garcia, Villa Escudero’s Don Ado Escudero and Frank and Dr. Geraldine Mayor.

Advance birthday greetings to elegant lady Menchu de las Alas Concepcion and Karen Santiago Montenegro, July 14; Rina Lopez Bautista, business whiz Robina Gokongwei-Pe and my twins John and Michael, July 15; Philam’s Jose Cuisia Jr., Henry Zabarte, Christian Monsod, Dr. Ramon Batungbacal and Menchu Romero, July 16; Menchu Katigbak, Celine Bautista, my godson Joshua Leveriza, businessman William Cu-Unjieng, Fred Elizalde and Claudio de Luzuriaga, July 17; Don Jaime Zobel de Ayala, Sixto Orosa III and lovely Mary Ann Ojeda, July 18; columnist Carmen Guerrero-Nakpil and businessman Oye Fores, July 19.

So, how was your week?

(For comments or inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com)