An evening for a special Rose

“Joy is not in things; it is in us.”  — Richard Wagner

It was a fabulous tribute and appreciation for Rose Lazaro, a phenomenal woman who holds her family closer with every passing year as the grand matriarch of the Lazaro family. Rose, the dedicated Friends for Cultural Concerns of the Philippines (FCCP) vice president, accomplished CWC past president and loving wife of retired Justice Lolong Lazaro, recently celebrated her birthday at the NBC Tent at The Fort, Taguig, which was artfully transformed into a rose-filled, pink-hued ballroom. Family, friends and special guests including Dr. Elenita Binay, Ilocos Norte Rep. Imelda Marcos, Sen. Bongbong Marcos and Ombudsman Chit Carpio Morales gathered to take part in the celebration. The vibrant evening started with a prayer led by Fr. Joel Sulse, OFM, parish priest of Santuario de San Antonio followed by an enthralling serenade by the Bernie Pasamba Choir and the UP College Choir. Chuck and Mitch Lazaro emceed the program that kicked off with an excellent surprise number from the celebrator’s Friday Dancing Group and a groovy performance to the tune of Mamma Mia by some of the FCCP ladies. Rose’s lovable grandchildren and relatives also regaled her with superb musical surprises and an amazing ballroom medley dance that had everyone giving a round of applause. The heartwarming affair had guests enjoying the revelry replete with a delectable feast catered by Bizu and overflowing drinks. Beaming with sheer joy, the celebrator graciously gave her heartfelt thanks to everyone who came to celebrate with her, most especially to her loving family who truly made her feel how special she is. Happy birthday, Rose! All the best in the coming years!

GREETINGS

Happy birthday to our celebrators today, elegant lady Judy Roxas, Monina Lopez, construction queen Aying de Leon, Rep. Ed Zialcita, Antonio Tambunting Jr. and FCCP’s Marietta Holmgren.

Advance birthday greetings to Malou Rosal, Nenuca Araneta Blardony and Marielle Litton, Aug. 1; jet-setter Nene Quimson, Aug. 2; debonair chairman of The Bellevue Hotel Johnny Chan, Sony Lopez Gonzales, Kit Aguado and Alex Libongco, Aug. 3; Martin Litton, Emily Lopez, Meralco’s COO Oscar Reyes and Eskaya’s Phoebe Lim, Aug. 4; Frederico “Piki” Lopez, former Sen. Richard Gordon and Camp John Hay’s SVP Shean Bedi, Aug. 5; Consul of Togo Evie Costa and total concert performer Gary Valenciano, Aug. 6.

So, how was your week?

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