In the midst of their hectic pre-departure preparations, when days are carefully scheduled and monitored and unproductive hours are just too precious to waste, they flew to Cebu for an overnight stay. The Cebuanos liked them even more for that
A farewell lunch hosted by the Cebu chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce, headed by its president, high-profile lawyer Danilo Deen, at the grand ballroom – no other venue could have accommodated the great number of responses – of the Cebu Marriott Hotel, was the first on the agenda for the day.
In his speech, Malinowski reiterated the United States’ steadfast support to the Philippine government’s efforts to fight terrorism. He admitted that the authorities of both countries have been seriously discussing ways and means for the safe release of the hostages, who include the American couple Martin and Gracia Burnham. He further assured the Cebuanos of his government’s continuous efforts to work closely with Filipino organizations by sharing ideas and information on economic issues, environmental concerns, security measures and a variety of other vital topics.
As soon as he had uttered his last word, colleagues, acquaintances and admirers found themselves in a long queue leading to the American diplomat for their own personal goodbyes.
"It certainly brought memories of the last elections," quipped a lunch guest, "when voters often rush to the candidates for national offices for the customary handshake and the must-have photograph for posterity."
"Some human behaviors don’t change at all," retorted someone within hearing distance.
When evening came, after some personal time to have a final look around the city, a city that contributed to many of their beautiful experiences in the Philippines, the amiable and likable couple found themselves in the company of an intimate group of friends for a casual get-together.
This time, United States consular agent John Domingo and his delightful wife Eileen hosted a wish-it-never-ended affair at their very-ideal-for-entertainment residence up in the hills of plush Maria Luisa Park.
The province and the city of Cebu were represented by Gov. Pablo Garcia and his gracious wife Esperanza, the much-admired retired judge and Mayor Tomas Osmeña and his first lady, the ever-on-the-go and energetic Margot.
From the media were Philippine Star columnist and television personality Bobbit Avila and Sun Star Cebu chronicler Mila Espina, the lady behind several outstanding projects involving Cebu’s local community.
Honorary consuls, such as Sweden’s Chiling Sala, now taking life in his stride, and wife Susan, president of the Peace Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Netherlands’ well-respected industrialist Bobby Aboitiz and his wife Marian, chairman of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, were likewise present.
In high-spirited conversation were US investor Lexmark president Glenn Westerman, Cebu Ports Authority manager and civic leader Jake Marques and wine connoisseur Tony Lozada.
At the end of an evening, which Michael and Karen agreed will be difficult to forget, all present sincerely hoped that the Nepalese would welcome the couple with open hearts for we realized that they had successfully touched the Cebuanos they met through their various visits. At least in Cebu, they did.
We wish the Malinowskis – as an old, old song goes – good luck and good health. God bless you!