Man of the hour @ Chef Jessie

MANILA, Philippines — Positive in nature and possessing an uplifting spirit, a sense of achievement, inspiration, the love of flight, celebration and overall happiness – that’s how Juancho Robles was described by his closest friends in an intimate hot-air balloon-themed party held last June 28 at Chef Jessie.

Gov. Chavit Singson and Juancho Robles blow their birthday cake while Pinky Tobiano, Ed Cabangon and Patrick Jacinto look on.

The theme of the party, prepared by his loving wife Pinky Tobiano, was chosen for a reason – aside from the celebrator's love of flight, the couple loves to travel around the world but has never had the chance to ride a hot-air balloon.

Even tables were displayed with hot-air balloon furniture, which were handcarried from Paris. The cozy birthday celebration was attended by the couples’ closest friends.

Seated are Gov. Chavit Singson, Juancho Robles, Patrick Jacinto and Panama Ambassador Rolando Guevara Alvarado. Standing are (from left) Dr. Steve Gan, Marilyn Gan, Ed Cabangon, Joanne Rae Ramirez, Ed Ramirez, Pinky Tobiano, Grace Glory Go, Sharon Tan, Joy Fong, Pianne Nicole Tobiano Sinfuego, Julien Chung and Manny Hermano