MANILA, Philippines - Zonta Club of Muntinlupa & Environs, headed by president Maripi Menendez and chairperson Gloria Garcia, held recently a Moroccan & More bazaar at the Ayala Alabang to benefit the club’s flagship project called SAGIP (Saklolo at Gabay ng Ina at Pamilya sa Muntinlupa). SAGIP is a 24-hour crisis response and wholistic center against violence toward women and children. Some 5,000 clients have been served by SAGIP since 1998 with the local government of Muntinlupa, now headed by Mayor Aldrin San Pedro, as staunch partner. The club also gives high school scholarships.
The Mid-Eastern allure of Morocco was replicated as theme of the bazaar with the souk as a predominant attraction. Gauzy drapes, various sacks with herbs, salt and spices were ranged alongside the main alley of the site. A Salon de The’ was set up for the guests who cut the ribbon like Mayor Aldrin San Pedro, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Ayala Alabang president Larry de Leon and his wife Tanini Dolor de Leon and St. James the Great parish priest Monsignor Albert Venus.
Green tea, falafel and pita, humus and shakshuska, kebab and baklava were offered at Salon de The’ manned by tea mistress Brenda Tanjutco and gourmet chef Nancy Harel. Two hundred concessioners offered their merchandise and select products during the bazaar. The Azkals lent their presence for photo ops and autograph signing. Other activities included belly dancing and face painting.