MANILA, Philippines - Sofitel Philippine Plaza recently hosted an intimate cocktail dinner at Le Bar to thank its sponsors and partners for 2013. The event also welcomed the Yuletide season at Sofitel with the lighting of Christmas decorations that shone bright in all parts of the hotel. Highlighting the evening was the turnover of a P707,000 check to the Virlanie Foundation, from the proceeds of the recent Sofitel-Run Rio Battle of the Sexes Leg 2. Present at the check turnover are (from left) Sofitel Philippine Plaza general manager Adam Laker, Virlanie Foundation founder Dominique Lemay, coach Rio de la Cruz and Chevrolet Philippines assistant manager Mark Ranier Parulan. The donation will benefit the kids of Virlanie Foundation in line with Sofitel Philippine Plaza’s advocacy to alleviate the lives of the street children of Manila. As token of their appreciation for the hotel’s continuous support, the Virlanie choir sang some all-time favorite Christmas carols. Everyone was treated to a feast prepared by Sofitel’s master chefs just for the gathering. Master chocolatier Tweet Obsequio also showcased her artisanal chocolates inspired by the Christmas season.