Joanna “Jophie” Cancio Suplico waltzed beautifully on the night she turned 18. Her long slender limbs and swan-like gait were that of a natural dancer. For many years, she honed her God-given talent at ballet class starting in her toddler years. During her elementary and high school days at St. Scholastica, she managed to excel in her studies as well as in her dance classes. Today, she is an active member of the Ateneo Dance Sport Club. Nothing can keep her from pursuing her passion for dance.
That night when she turned 18, Jophie dazzled her guests with her welcome performance, an elegant waltz with dance partner Jan Gabriel Cerezo. Then she switched tempo into a lively dance medley when Jophie and her friends performed Dream Girls and Dancing Queen to the delight of all her guests.
My favorite part of the evening was the presentation of 18 treasures to the celebrant. A shower of gifts from those who are close to the heart of Jophie left many of us in The Peninsula ballroom teary eyed with emotion. The presents were not necessarily extravagant but the thoughtful loving messages that accompanied each gift made them totally priceless. Each friend shared her favorite anecdote about Jophie and expressed what she loved about her and presented their token of love and appreciation. We all fell in love with the multi-talented golden-hearted Jophie who lived her young life pleasing her family and friends. This obedient daughter, caring sister and loving friend always thought of others before herself. No wonder that on her birthday the venue was full.
The finale message and gift was the one given by Yaya Alma Losabia, Jophie’s nanny since birth. She said, “Jophie, here is a simple heart-shaped pendant because you are always in my heart. You are so loving and generous to people around you, especially to the people on the street. Lahat ng sampaguita vendors gusto mong pag-aralin.”
Jophie’s friend Pramela Menghrajani said, “Since you have dedicated your life to your family and friends, it’s time to take a day off to pamper yourself. So I got you a spa certificate.”
Joyce Manansala said, “The best gift I can give you are memories so I put in as many photos as I could in this CD.”
Lia Feliciano told Jophie, “Having played several lead roles in many productions aside from being a dancer, you are also a good actress. I got you a necklace with a dancing ballerina.”
Shermine Chavez recounted her memorable Davao trip with Jophie, “Since you are a person who loves to travel, I got you a travel vintage bag.”
Mikaela Kapati said, “Thank you for everything. We have been together since grade school up to college. I’m giving you a journal since you are such a good writer, and pens to add to your collection.”
Portia Layno said, “I got you a calming scent to relax you since I know you are always so busy with dance.”
Princess Co said, “So you will always remember me, I want to give you this Touch Lamp. To let you know how grateful I am that you have influenced me and changed me into a better person.”
Jophie also beamed when her parents spoke. Her mom Tess Cancio-Suplico told the crowd, “Our children are our greatest treasures.” Her dad Rolex Suplico was filled with gratitude that night. He said, “Thank you very much from the bottom of our hearts for coming and making Jophie so happy.”
Jophie thanked brother Tom for his help in putting this unforgettable celebration together for his sister.
Happy 18th birthday, Jophie!
(Would love to hear from you at kmiladayjewels@yahoo.com)